the unequivocal notion

Going to be busy this Saturday in Nampa

The Very Most, a wonderful band out of Boise will be playing with the always excellent A Seasonal Disguise at Market Limone this Saturday at 7:00 p.m. The Very Most will also have copies of their just released-last-weekend album Congratulations Forever on hand for purchase.

Here is the video for The Very Most track "Spilt, Spilt Milk".

Also of note, Market Limone is having a Cinco de Mayo celebration all day long, with a mariachi band performing from 12-2 p.m., cooking demonstrations, some Mexican beer and wine tastings. There will also be margarita specials all day -- including a cilantro margarita that I hear is pretty out of this world (I'll be reporting live from the scene for that one!).

Combined with the Nampa Farmers Market earlier Saturday morning, well, let's just say that's it is going to be a busy day.

Click down below for A Seasonal Disguise's video for the great track; "Last Cigarettes".

More on the great chain debate

Rachael Daigle of the Boise Weekly has a great writeup this week on the debate between the local joints and the chain restaurants:

[...]

Was my position unwelcoming to chain restaurants looking to relocate downtown? Most certainly. If I had my way, the chains would be relegated to an existence on Eagle Road, where they are a safe distance from the restaurants that make Boise's culinary scene unique. Like it or not, Boise can only support so many restaurants. More restaurants means more choices, but it also means diners are spread more thinly. Take into account the rising price of food and the of tightening consumers' budgets due to a slowing economy and it means fewer butts in seats for everyone, chains and locals alike. The difference? Those with large corporate budgets can weather a string of slow months. The locals can't.

[...]

When a city loses a local restaurant, the loss extends further than its menu. It means the erosion of region-specific cuisine; it means the disappearance of local cooking styles and flair; ultimately, it means less culinary diversity across the nation. Chew on this: What would Boise's culinary scene look like without Basque restaurants? Which chain restaurants would serve fingersteaks and fry sauce? It may seem like doomsday conspiracy theory to hypothesize that if trends continue at the current rate, locally owned restaurants will be a thing of the past in another half century. In reality, though, restaurants are one of the last surviving hold-outs from corporate America's takeover. We're not having this discussion about locally owned drugstores, are we? Or toy stores, or auto-parts retailers, or grocery stores, or gas stations ...

Make sure you read the whole thing, she makes some really good points.

On that note, BW also mentions that Ketchum Burritos in BoDo has also closed up shop.

El Rodeo to get booze?

Rumor is that El Rodeo, my favorite Downtown Nampa Mexican restaurant is going to start serving booze. Gone will be the days of "winearitas", bottled domestics and imports -- although I do hope they keep the boot beer mugs, they've always been a favorite of mine.

The people who were running The Hideout, the bar that was attached to El Rodeo bought The Sportsman's Bar & Cafe in Caldwell a while ago and renamed it The Sportsman's Hideout. Now that the liquor license from The Hideout has been transfered to the El Rodeo folks we should start to see some real margaritas on the menu pretty quickly. If you've never been there, The Hideout was essentially in the back room of El Rodeo but it had its own entrance. Both places share the same facilities -- while being completely separate businesses, they occupy the same space. Now from what I understand El Rodeo will be using the whole space.

Good news all around...

Idaho Statesman endorses Bujak

I gotta say, I agree with their reasoning.

Idaho print media, welcome to the web.

Kevin Richert of the Idaho Statesman has an interesting post up about anonymous bloggers, “commenters” and online civility in general on the web. In his piece, he (and also Steve Ahrens over at the Idaho Business Review) call on bloggers and commenters to use their real names if they want credibility in this online world.

Richert:

Ahrens might not have known it, but he hit on a raw nerve in our internal discussions. Some of my newsroom colleagues openly dislike our online comments — and the anonymous rhetorical food fight that seems to follow every sensitive or controversial story. And a couple have questioned why I quote anonymous bloggers and commenters on our Opinion pages, in our daily "Other Voices" feature.

[...]

If I had the answers, I would be an anomaly in our industry. I will admit I put more stock in bloggers and commenters who identify themselves — which is why, when I post comments on my blog or others, I always identify myself.

Journalist have their names, they build them up and sell them, that's what they do -- nothing wrong with it, it is their chosen profession. They get paid to write stories, columns, blog posts and attach their names to them. We do what we do because we feel passionate about what we write about, be it sports, local, state or national politics, beer, wine or an infinite list of other subjects. We mostly do it for free and have other "real" jobs, which is where you see the anonymity come into to play, especially when you're a Liberal in this red of a state.

I'm kinda/sorta anonymous, a lot of people know who I am, but most don't. I don't take a lot of steps to protect it, but I don't advertise it either. I just don't think that who I am has that much bearing on what I write about -- that and death threats (yep, it has happened) really aren't that cool either. But there are a few bloggers in Idaho who require anonymity to write, that's just the nature of our state and what they write about. Do they deserve any less credibility? I don't think so. I think they bring insight into subjects that the rest of us don't have; they have credibility in my eyes because I choose to give it to them.

A novel idea would be placing credibility in what one writes not who they are. Actually, first off, think about why you give anyone credibility on the internet. One thing that is important to realize about about blogging or bloggers is that anyone can, and will do it. The same demographics of liars, thieves and bullies that exist in the real world also exist in this digital one. If there is one thing you can ever teach someone about the internet it is this; "just because it is on the web, doesn't mean it is so". That is Web 101.

Am I special cause I write about things I enjoy on the internet? Not at all. Do I think that what I have to say is important? Not really, and most often someone has said it better and more eloquently than I ever could. Does anything I say have any weight? Mostly not, I'm just a random guy who pays 15 bucks a month to a blogging service so people can read what I have to say. I'm still sittin' here trying to figure out why people read what I write in the first place -- Lord knows it is not my grammar or spelling or wanton wit. I just started doing it in '04 and have kept at it -- it just so happens that I enjoy it. Some Idaho bloggers have been doing it for much longer than I have, and operating just fine without nonsense like a "blogger code of ethics".

I find it funny now that the newspapers are starting to expand into the online world they are the ones calling for rules and changes in how the blogosphere operates. It's like the kid on the block who is demanding the rules to the neighborhood tag game be changed so he doesn't get pushed and get grass stains on his knees.

(sorta off the subject)

On that note I do applaud the expansion of the print media into the digital world. I've come to enjoy The Spokesman-Review's HBO and Eye on Boise. D.F. Oliveria' s Huckleberries Online is one of the better journalist-run blogs, and of course, Betsy Russell's Eye On Boise is the go-to blog about all things Idaho Legislature. I'm also a pretty big fan of the Idaho Statesman's new online presence. I enjoy reading Kevin Richert's blog Commentary, I also enjoy Michael Deeds' Words & Deeds and Patrick Orr's The Beer Nut.

Now I do understand the Statesman's staff's displeasure with allowing comments on stories, but rest assured, because of the page views it surely generates it is most likely not going anywhere, and it probably shouldn't. I will say that the Idaho Statesman's comment sections are filled with the most inane, bigoted, racist vile that I've seen on any local website. But ya know what? There are a lot of inane, bigoted racists that still live in Idaho. Being allowed to post comments anonymously has taken how they talk in their own homes and backrooms into a public forum -- I think that is a good thing; it let's people know racism and a host of other feelings are still well and alive. That's just a part of the wild west of the 'tubes, mean stupid people say mean and stupid things. You either ignore it or let it eat at you, it is really a pretty simple choice.

Of course it hasn't been all successes for Idaho newspapers trying to make their mark on the web; the Idaho Press-Tribune is continually trying and stumbling to get their site to take hold, but I'm confident they'll figure it out. They did just introduce a new feature "Valley Chatter", we'll have to see how well that goes over. However The Idaho State Journal has just been a miserable failure at their online endeavors. It is definitely not a cakewalk.

(back on the subject)

In short; the only credibility or weight you bring to a subject is the credibility or weight readers are willing to give you -- whether you're anonymous or not. The brilliant thing about the web is that there are no rules -- that's the way it has always been and that's the way it should remain.  It continues to be a vastly interesting and entertaining social experiment, one that is fun to observe, and be a part of.

Ben's Crow Inn

Alan from IdaBlue went to a place that we love around these parts.

Mmm, beer and clams.

Why it matters

Idaho Statesman on Meridian Republican Sen. Shirley McKague:

Rep. Mark Snodgrass has worked for three years to improve Treasure Valley air quality. Sen. Shirley McKague doesn't think there's a problem.

Snodgrass does his homework on issues, especially in education, finds reasonable solutions and looks out for the best interests of Meridian residents.

McKague is disconnected and doesn't fully understand the issues. For example, during an editorial board meeting last week, she had no recollection about a vital Treasure Valley issue: a local-option tax constitutional amendment. She couldn't remember whether the amendment had come before the Senate Local Government and Taxation Committee, where she is a member. It had.

[...]

McKague said there is no air quality problem in Canyon County so she voted against a bill that could require emissions tests in Canyon County. Let's remember, she doesn't represent Canyon County residents - and her Ada County constituents are already subject to emissions tests. Even worse, McKague insists vehicles do not cause air quality problems, even though vehicle exhausts trigger the Valley's most serious pollution problems, such as ozone.

[...]

McKague, unconvincingly, tries to label Snodgrass a closet Democrat. "He's no more of a Republican than Hillary Clinton,'' McKague said. "Mr. Snodgrass consistently votes with the Democrats.''

Ya know, I don't have a lot of problems with Gov. Otter, but the man is not very good when it comes to making political appointments. I honestly think he's appointing far right ideologues to mask his own non-far-rightness -- or to payback some well heeled supporters of his campaign.

I can only imagine McKague sitting there, flustered, confused and angry about this whole process. And when she realized that she couldn't sufficiently answer the Statesman's Editorial Board's questions, she said "well, he's a commie pinko!".

I bet she thinks she shouldn't even have to tinker with this whole "election thingy" and just get appointed for another term in the Senate. I mean, we're just wasting time with these elections, we're at war man, not in Iraq, we're being invaded by Mexico.

Let's also not forget that Sen. McKague tried passing off of John Birch Society email as a Senate Joint Memorial -- mocking the very body she is a member of.

More from Richert and IdaBlue.

Updated

Kevin Richert of the Idaho Statesman has issued a correction RE: the local-option tax amendment issue.

Well, it was nice for a few days...

Back to cold and wet again...

I'm just waiting for it to hit the 80's and stay there (ok, if I'm gettin' picky; 76), yes stay there, I'm not looking forward to August when we hit the triple digits. 100 + degrees seems to make the Idaho Shakespeare Festival not as much fun. 

At least I got some yard work in this past weekend; although I need to get my herbs in the dirt this week.

Is it just me...

...that thinks having the "Boise Metro Regional Leadership Conference" in the Wood River Valley just a little stupid? I guess self-aggrandizing is a tad bit more enjoyable when done against a backdrop of mountains and trees.

I guess I just fail to see why a meeting of Treasure Valley lawmakers has to take place outside of the Treasure Valley.

I certainly hope that this little excursion is privatively funded.

Updated

Rick Carpenter is following the conference at the Idaho Business Review.

Johann Helton @ Market Limone

Johann Helton
Market Limone

Jalapeños in Nampa

Good stuff... and they have 32oz domestic and import drafts. Also, don't forget 3 dollar margaritas during happy hour.

Jalapeños

Cats on the patio

I think they're liking the sun...

Juliet.

Mallory (named after Mallory from Natural Born Killers -- yeah, she's that mean).

Weekend Tunes

Earth Week edition.

Radiohead, the band who played Late Night with Conan O'Brien's first show, returned this past Wednesday for a performance of yet another incredible song; "House of Cards" off of their amazing album In Rainbows.

Nampa Farmer's Market starts up Saturday

The long awaited start of the 2008 Nampa Farmer's Market is just about over. And it is sounding like the weather is going to be damn near perfect.

Nampa Farmer's Market --
1st Street S. & 12th Avenue S. In front of the train depot; Saturday's, 9:00 - 1:00

Other Treasure Valley farmer's markets:

Boise: Capital City Public Market --
Downtown Boise North 8th St. between Bannock & Idaho; Saturday's, 9:30 - 1:30

Meridian: Meridian Farmer's Market --
30 E. Broadway (Between Main & Meridian Roads); Saturday's 8:00 - 1:00

Check here for other Idaho farmer's markets.

Shop local. Eat local.

More Idaho Legislature failures

As a "cat" person, this story has just gotten sicker and sicker as the days unfold and more news is released.

Idaho Statesman:

Cats at Owyhee County home may have been fed to wolves
Other cats remaining on the Owyhee property with captive wolves and bobcats are feral, and many are diseased.

Dozens of domestic cats may have been fed to captive wolves on the Owyhee County property where officials removed wolves and bobcats Wednesday.

"The facility is littered with dead cats and lots were either fed to the wolves or were killed in the pens by the wolves," Jeff Rosenthal, Idaho Humane Society executive director, said Wednesday.

[...]

The bobcats occupy a "gray area in the law," Mitchell said. They are considered fur-bearing animals, and are regulated by the Department of Agriculture if they are used to produce pelts.

But they are not regulated if they are treated as pets, Mitchell said.

Mitchell said he could remember four efforts to amend or augment captive wildlife laws in the Legislature, "and none of them went anywhere."

People always say "we don't need more laws", well, sometimes we do. We have to have laws to punish stupid people for doing stupid things. Of course I wouldn't expect the Idaho Legislature to do anything about this -- unless like the dog fighting legislation, some famous person gets caught doing it first.

Once again the actions of the do-nothing Idaho Legislature prove to have real world implications.

Some "Asian" pies

Thai peanut sauce w/ chicken, sugar snap peas and mung sprouts*

*This was really damn good.

Spicy Sweet & Sour Salmon

The Invasion @ The Knitting Factory

Really a pretty good show. It's pretty nice to see a local band that has put not only a lot of thought into their music, but they've also put a lot of thought into their live show and their image (which like it or not kiddies, image is the front door in the music biz).

The guy on the right is Grammy award winner Art Hodge who helped produce the band's album and also helped out on stage last night for a few songs.

You can't help but compare this Nampa-based band to Muse, although they are a tad bit more pop"py" than Muse -- which isn't a bad thing at all. And for me this is a pretty good comparison because I happen to enjoy Muse quite a bit. The Invasion has great stage presence, they were extremely tight and Aaron Brown can belt out some pretty amazing vocals. I really wouldn't be surprised if you start hearing more of this band in the near future.

Check out the band's MySpace page here where you can listen to some tracks off of the new album. You can also check out the band's main website here.

TGI Friday's in Nampa and rating the chains

Everyone's taste buds are certainly not the same, but I don't think I've ever read a more lustful critique of such crappy food. Ever.

I've never been to the TGI Friday's in Nampa (the picture in the story above says it all), but I've been to other ones before, and seeing how they are cookie cutters of themselves I don't think I'll go anytime soon. I have to say that of all the sit down fast food joints, TGI Friday's is the worst -- it is running really close in craptaculousness to Chili's, but it takes the previously frozen cake.

Well, I'm not a complete snob as some of you may think. I have been to pretty much all the sit down fast food joints over the years, after all, one does have to make compromises and concessions. I will say that for the last 1-2 years I really have stuck to my guns and refused to go the chain route.

So, if I had to rate the major chains in our area, I'd probably go as follows:

1. Red Robin - Really not a bad place for a burger, any place that asks how you would like your burger cooked gets points in my book. They also have decent fries and some good beers on tap. It just has that one lingering problem that is hard for me to overcome; screaming kids. But this is their turf and not mine, so I won't complain about them.
2. Ruby Tuesdays - We really dug this joint when we were living in Georgia in our younger days -- it is a lot like Applebees, only much better. Rumors are abound that one is coming to the valley.
3. Applebees - Even though nearly every product comes from a frozen bag in the back room and is promptly tossed into a vat of oil, it is stomachable -- with copious amounts of really cold beer.
4. Outback - Can be doable. The only place in Nampa that has Pyramid Hefeweizen on tap. Two lemon slices please.
5. Red Lobster - We used to only go for lobster fest, well, I went for my wife so she could have lobster fest. But even she is now done with this place, their sub-par seafood is exuberantly priced, chewy and just plain flavorless. Why this place has an hour wait line is beyond me. Once you've had fresh Maine lobster, or rock lobster from the Caribbean Sea, well, the rest just sucks.
6. Joe's Crab Shack - OMG is this place annoying. Been once, never again.
7. Olive Garden - Why do people think that this is Italian food? Used to think that soup-salad-breadsticks were good as well as a good value. Not any more. If you want frozen Italian "style" dinners look no further then the frozen section of your local grocery store. A bag of Bertolli and a box of wine will feed 4, only set ya back 15 bucks and taste just as good.
   
8. Johnny Carino's - See above. Used to like their wine dinners (food was off menu) when a certain owner of a certain wine distributor was picking the wines. Haven't been for well over two years, and won't be back.
9. Chili's - No, those aren't good ribs and it is not a festive party atmosphere, now get over yourselves -- GoodWood take note, your "BBQ" blows too.
10. TGI Friday's - I don't know how many times we used to give this place a shot. Everything about it just screams sordid nightmares about the shitty side of American consumerism.
    

Several of these places are on my "never again" list; well, 5 through 10. The others, I don't go there by choice, but I'm willing if we're a part of a larger group. I'm a bit of a foodie, but by no means a food snob, and there is a difference. I'm also not an inconsiderate jackass -- well, most of the time I'm not.

I will say that we almost went to Red Robin last week because my wife and I were craving a good burger and beer -- and frankly, there isn't anywhere (that I know of) to get a good burger and draft beer in Nampa. We did however stick our non-chain guns and went to Smokey Mountain Pizza instead (a chain yes, but an Idaho one), and were sorely disappointed once again. Smokey Mountain is creeping up on my "never again" list as well.

Bottom line; if you can, eat local. I promise that 8 times out of 10 it'll be better. Most likely it'll be better for you, your taste buds and it is always better for the local economy.

So, if you like 'em or even if you don't like them -- how would you rate the major chains?

Ron Paul in Idaho and the crazy train

I hear there is going to be a caravan of Ron Paul supporters from eastern Idaho coming to The College of Idaho in Caldwell this Friday.

I liked this from a story about Paul's Idaho visit:

The congressman from Texas is considered an extreme long shot to win the republican presidential nomination - however he has gained significant momentum in southern Idaho over the past year.

Last weekend Paul’s supporters opened a campaign office in Twin Falls.

They may be a scraggly bunch, but they're persistent. I'm sure when Paul canceled his appearance in Twin Falls, tens of men could be heard crying out from their mother's basements. 

Knitting Factory is now official

The Big Easy.

The change that has been rumbling for the last year is now finally official, The Big Easy has been bought out and renamed The Knitting Factory. From the sounds of it you won't notice anything different right now, but that'll be changing pretty quickly.

Idaho Press-Tribune has a story here.

Michael Deeds of the Idaho Statesman had this to say about The Bourbon Street Saloon:

The upstairs bar, Bourbon Street Saloon, also has a new name: the Alter Knit Lounge. (Get it? Alternate?) You can start calling it that now. No, go ahead, really. Unlike Bourbon Street, there will not be live bands in the Alter Knit Lounge. Just occasional DJs and "other programming." Food will continue to be served. I assume the New Orleans menu eventually will be tossed or, at least, tweaked. I hear they're bringing in the former chefs of the defunct MilkyWay.

This would be most excellent. Not only should (in theory) the Knitting Factory bring in more mid-level bands -- the food will get as they say... "kicked up a notch" (excuse the New Orleans/Big Easy irony in that).

Hoffman on the Mexican Consulate

Good read from Nathaniel Hoffman of PaleoMedia over at New West Boise as a part of their "Diary of a Mad Voter" series.

Interesting facts from his piece; there are currently 48 Mexican Consulates in the United States, guess which state is one of the two that doesn't have a consulate? Also, Idaho has about 50,000 Mexican born legal residents -- with that many, I'd say that they need/deserve a consulate to help with paper work.

However, once again, it's just easier to pay homage to the knuckle dragging masses with knee-jerk slogans instead of looking at the problem, analyzing it, and coming up with a comprehensive solution.

Big Easy gets renewed

The Big Easy (Knitting Factory?) was able to strike a compromise with the Alcohol and Beverage Control board in order to maintain their liquor license -- and thus, remain in business.

KBCI:

Big Easy Gets Liquor License Renewed

BOISE- Nearly a year ago, Idaho State Police officers nabbed more than a half a dozen establishments around the Treasure Valley for violations including selling alcohol to underage kids and nudity, but on Monday night managers of one of Boise's largest concert venues says for them, it's business as usual.

Managers of the Big Easy Concert House say the Alcohol and Beverage Control questioned whether their venue should be considered a restaurant, after last years sting, which ultimately put their liquor license in jeopardy. But to help clear up any confusion, they say with their liquor licensed just renewed, they're not going anywhere.

The future of the Big Easy has been a little rocky for the past year after an undercover Idaho State Police sting targeted their business and seven others. The Big Easy was busted for allegedly selling alcohol to minors and simulating sex acts, during their Men of Las Vegas Show.

[...]

Hanson did say those under 21 could be excluded from certain concerts, and/or certain areas inside the venue. Hanson says the Big Easy has given A.B.C. a written plan, outlining things they need to have happen in order to continue business as usual, he says they are waiting to hear back from the Alcohol and Beverage Control on their plan.

I'm glad that they'll still be able to offer shows to the under-21 crowd as they shouldn't be punished from seeing great rock shows simply because of their age. You won't however, hear me complain if they are quarantined somewhere by themselves.

Speaking of the overzealous Idaho morality police -- there is a great piece in the Idaho Statesman about the 1910 Idaho Sunday-closing laws. One which banned sinful things such as "movie theaters", "pool halls", "merry-go-rounds", or "any such place of amusement". The old legislature -- same as the new legislature.

Music notes

Local Stuff:

• The Invasion, an awesome band out of Nampa will have a record release party at The Big Easy , sorry, The Knitting Factory on Wednesday @ 7:30; tix are 5 bucks, available at TicketWeb, Flying M Coffeegarage in Nampa and at the door.
• The Very Most will have a record release party this Saturday at the Idaho Outdoor Association Hall in Boise. Show starts @ 6:30 p.m. with multiple openers - tix are also 5 bucks for this show.
• Speaking of The Very Most, they'll be in Nampa playing at Market Limone with guests A Seasonal Disguise, (one of my favorite local songwriters). The show is Saturday, May 3rd @ 7:30, admission to this show is free.

Some bigger stuff:

• If you haven't heard Death Cab For Cutie's new track "I Will Posses Your Heart" make sure you check it out -- all glorious 8 minutes and 31 seconds of it. I really can't wait for this album to release.
• I've really been digging The Black Keys' new DJ Danger Mouse produced album, Attack and Release, check out one of my favorite tracks, "Things Ain't Like They Used To Be" -- one of the better songs I've heard in a long time.
• Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds' new album Dig, Lazarus, Dig!!! is awesome.
• My Morning Jacket is offering a new track off of their upcoming album for free for the remainder of the week. If you'd like a copy of the track "Evil Urges" go here. This is probably the album I'm most looking forward to this summer.
• Fleet Foxes - check 'em out, good stuff.

Local GOP'ers, the IVA and ID

Color me crazy, but I am a tad timid about elected officials (and wannabe elected officials) who subscribe to Intelligent Design (read: creationism) and who distrust science dictating laws in Idaho. I'm not saying they can't, I'm just sayin' it doesn't exactly bode well for Idahoans in the long run.

Also, on the IVA page linked above there is a bonus quote calling Ralph Smeed a "world-renowned free-thinker". As someone who spent many a summer afternoon sitting around the lunch table listening to Ralph Smeed regurgitate whatever Rush Limbaugh talked about the day before -- I can unequivocally say; "bullshit". An interesting character, sure. And definitely one who thinks outside of the box, but Fischer's characterization is just a little over the top. 

IPT on Canyon County prosecuting attorney primary

Keep it clean boys -- but for the love of God, one of you please beat Young.

Amen.

Community-supported agriculture

Idaho Statesman has a great read on something that we need more of; community-supported agriculture. It is a good read if you're into that sorta thing.

I was wrong all along...

The American Library Association really is trying to push porn onto our children so that they can turn them into miniature sex fiends.

Why? Well, that point isn't exactly clear... go figure.

Weekend Tunes

Leonard Cohen performing "The Future" on Later... with Jools Holland.

Something is not right here

I got this from KBCI last night (video on the website):

Nampa woman's campaign sign draws controversy

NAMPA - You can't miss this sign when you drive down Nampa's Southside Boulevard.

It's 8 feet by 4 feet supporting John Bujack for Canyon County Prosecutor.

"I received a call from the Bujack campaign that told me that the Idaho Department of Transportation had contacted them and asked that our sign of John Bujack be removed," said Autumn Short, the homeowner who put the sign on her property.

Short wanted to know why, why would the Transportation Department want her to remove the campaign sign.

She was told the request actually came from the Idaho Attorney General's office.

"To me that was just a little bit fishy," Short said.

So, Autumn did some checking of her own. Guess what she found out. Bujack's opponent, Danny Bower works in the Attorney General's office.

[...]

Idaho code states that election signs are not allowed in the right of way.

"This is a power pole which is right on the property line, so if you look and as you can see we're standing in the right of way, right now and if you look straight down the Bujack sign is clearly not in the right of way."

That's right it's more than five feet from the right of way.

"I'm a John Bujack supporter and I'm not going to remove the sign" Short said.

It also turns out that the Idaho Transportation Department doesn't even have jurisdiction where Short's house is at. The complaint had to originate with somebody else, and if I was guessing, I'd say it was probably Bower or one of his surrogates.

You don't think that Danny Bower would attempt to abuse his current position to gain an unfair advantage in the election do you?  It's starting to seem a little clear that there is something bigger to Bower's run for Canyon County prosecutor -- we'll have to see what unfolds -- this guy just reeks of fishy politics.

That being said, after this and his wacky rant from the other day it sounds like he'd fit right in Canyon County politics.

Updated

Idaho Press-Tribune has more on this story, or non-story, if you will. Blame it on the X-Files in me, but I still thing something is fishy here.

Sushi to go in Nampa

Sometimes my wife will bring home a roll as an appetizer whenever I make something "Asian" for dinner.

This is the "Nampa Roll" from Krung Thai and it's pretty damn good; Tempura shrimp, avocado and topped with crispy tuna.

Krung Thai

Chef Andrae Bopp on MilkyWay closing

One of Boise's premier chefs, Chef Andrae Bopp of Andrae's weighs in on the closing of Downtown Boise's MilkyWay.

Idaho Statesman:

"Yep, they're done. It's a sad state of affairs for Downtown," said Andrae Bopp, chef and owner of Andrae's.

Bopp bemoaned the lack of support for local restaurants, saying "Here we have Bonefish Grill opening up, and these guys who are working their butts off, closing. It's disturbing."

Indeed.

More often than not local restaurants buy local meats and produce and hire local staff thus keeping/expanding revenue in our area. If you think the profits that Olive Garden made from your crappy frozen shrimp linguine are staying in the state -- you're out of your mind.

Shop local. Eat local. Drink local.

Updated

Right on cue the Idaho Statesman's comment section turned into a giggling pit of mutant 3rd graders seeing who can lob the biggest clump of crap without using their thumbs. As to how the conversation turned from the MilkyWay closing to boobs -- well, I'll never know.

Cindy Luna writes letters

I can only assume that this is Cindy Luna, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna's wife.

Idaho Press-Tribune:

Library's books should reflect community's values
By Cindy Luna

I was disappointed to read that the Nampa Library Board is reconsidering its decision about the two “sex education” books that were previously removed from the shelves and put in a more inconspicuous area of the library. I believe they are reconsidering this decision because a majority of the library staff disapproves of the decision.

It is my understanding that the books are purchased with taxpayer dollars and should therefore represent the morals and values of the community that supports the library. The Nampa Library does not contain every book ever written. The books are chosen and purchased by a staff member who deems them important to the residents of the community.

Canyon County is one of the most conservative counties in the most conservative state in the nation; thereby, it would stand to reason that the books in question could easily be deemed inappropriate for our community.

[...]

read the rest...

I wonder if she can see the irony in the wife of the head of Idaho's public schools supporting the banning of educational books in a public library?

It's really surprising that people like Luna don't understand how exactly a community works -- or maybe not, there does seem to be a pattern here. They seem to think that because they believe one way, everyone else must believe in that same manner. One thing I've never really understood about the Conservative mentality is the reliance on the simplicity of "black and white"; the world does not function as "yes or no", "you are either with us or against us" -- it is a much more complicated affair. However because the world is more nuanced than "black or white" it takes knowledge, patience and diplomacy to make it function properly. This is true from a world perspective all the way down to a community's library board's prospective.

Well, it should be anyway.

It's not like the library staff had these books on the shelves for their own enjoyment -- they are there because people in the community (potentially Cindy Luna's neighbor or family member) most likely requested them at some point or there is a need in the community. For the wife of "supposed" leader in our state to insinuate that Karen Ganske who has been serving her community as the Library Director for the last 20 years doesn't know what she is doing -- is, well; reprehensible.

Lemme see if I can break it down into simple white picket fence Americana that Cindy Luna can understand:

My family has cookouts. The majority of my family likes mayonnaise on their hamburgers. However, a few like having Miracle Whip. Therefore, at the serving table, we offer both mayonnaise and Miracle Whip. Everyone is happy.

See how this works?

Back story here.

Boise's MilkyWay to shutter its doors

The MilkyWay the venerable Downtown Boise institution is closing its doors for the last time this weekend.

Boise Weekly:

The Milky Way to Close This Weekend

It's sad, but true. Boise will lose one its best-loved restaurants this weekend.

Saturday is your last chance to get a Ten Minute Martini and a plate of Jalapeño Shrimp Bites.

[...]

In an interview with BW today, Andrea Maricich, a co-owner of the restaurant with her husband Mitchell, A.K.A. "Milky," said the restaurant was struggling in today's economic climate.

"It's the combination of a bad economy and the rising price of food," Maricich said.

Make sure you read the whole post from BW; they are updating their story as they hear more.

Best known for their Jalapeño Shrimp Bites and award winning Ten Minute Martini The MilkyWay brought great food and wine to people for a very reasonable price. Easily one of the largest and definitely the most accessible wine list in the valley. It was almost the mecca of eateries in Boise -- someone from out of town asks you where they should go to while they are here; The MilkyWay.

Sad thing is -- if this is happening to such a popular dining establishment because of the economy, how are some of the other less popular (equally as good) dining locales faring?

It's more than the two books

Remember to not be fooled -- the Randy Jackson and Nampa Public Library debacle is about more than just "The Joy of Gay Sex" and "The New Joy of Sex". The focus recently has only been on those two books, but Jackson and the Idaho Values Alliance have their minds set on nine total books -- not two.

As the Idaho Statesman pointed out this morning it is a "slippery slope" indeed. And Jackson, Fischer, et al plan on lubing up that slope to make it as slippery as possible.

The number of books have been scaled back to make it seem that they are worried about sex books as a whole -- when their real intentions are to get rid of all the books dealing with homosexual sexuality. Also it is important to note that the first two books named were "The Joy of Gay Sex" and the "The Joy of Sex Toys", not the "The New Joy of Sex" which deals with heterosexual sexuality. "The New Joy of Sex" was added later to provide cover -- so that it wouldn't seem they are just going after "The Joy of Gay Sex" or targeting homosexual books.

Idaho Values Alliance:

On Monday, May 15, at 7:00 p.m. I will be attending the Nampa City Council meeting to discuss with them some very controversial books found on the Library shelves.  The book titles include “The New Joy of Sex”, “The Joy of Sex Toys”, and “The Joy of Gay Sex”.  In total, there are 9 books we are taking to City Council.

All of these books have one common problem that we are bringing to their attention:  They have several very detailed, graphic, sexually explicit drawings and some photographs all of which are people in sexual positions.  I am not talking about a scientific “this is your body” thing; these images are very pornographic in nature.  They are the type of books that most parents would be horrified if they found their children looking at them.

Also note that Randy signed his letter to Byran Fischer as:

Thanks,
Randy Jackson
Revolution Ministries

Jackson later said that his complaint about the books were not related to his fundamentalist youth group or his position in a fundamentalist church, but as his being a concerned parent -- a meme that the media happily lapped up -- and published, repeatedly. Signing your name as an official of "Revolution Ministries" (which is different than his youth group Youth 4 Revolution) pretty much makes that argument null and void. So thanks Idaho media for saying that Mr. Jackson's relationship as the minister at a fundamentalist church has no bearing on the story. Way to do your homework -- I will note that the Idaho Press-Tribune did note in one column Mr. Jackson's affiliation with the fundamentalist group.

Rest assured if you give these people an inch they're going to demand a mile. If these books are removed they'll let the dust settle down, then they'll be back.

Danny Bower... Wow...

If you thought that Canyon County Prosecutor Dave Young was bad... get a load of the guy who sits under Young's desk (whats w/ the name 'Bower' in Canyon County?):

Idaho Press-Tribune:

Bower: Bujak 'cannot be trusted'

CANYON COUNTY — A Nampa attorney’s commitment to represent the legal interests of a local bar owner has drawn criticism from Canyon County prosecuting attorney candidate Danny Bower. Bower said John Bujak, who is also running for the same position, has a long history of representing adult nightclubs in Nampa and for that reason “cannot be trusted to protect our community.”

Bujak, a criminal defense attorney, began representing a local business named VIP’s Only, LLC, in 2006. VIP’s has existed under three different names in Nampa: “The Torch,” “Satin Dolls,” and now “Cowgirls Saloon,” all of which occupied the same location on the 400 block of Nampa Boulevard.

[...]

“Mr. Bujak’s long-time association with and representation of the sex entertainment industry in our community is troubling,” Bower said. “Instead of working with law enforcement to protect our community, Mr. Bujak sues law enforcement on behalf of businesses that objectify women and that contribute to a culture that denigrates the values of our community.”

Thank God that I've only been seeing Bujak campaign signs around.

Sounds like Bower's is more interested in a narrow minded fundamentalist agenda instead of acting as a prosecutor for a whole community, not a narrow swatch of fundies. This is exactly the kind of thing that simply amazes me. How is it that someone can have such an inarticulate view of the law and be working in the county's prosecutors office.

Talk about pandering for the far right vote; sad thing is, it may play in Canyon County. We'll have to see.

Check out IPT for Bower's original statement and Bujak's response -- after reading Bujak's response it's pretty clear who I will be supporting.