What a change, The flight left at 9Am so we did not have to get up at oh-dark thirty. We arrived at the Boise, Idaho Airport and were greeted by an impressive welcoming committee. My entire Executive Committee; VP Mike, Secretary Steve, Treasurer Bruce and our shuttle pilot Will Hansen.
We loaded into two cars and drove for about 2 hours then stopped at Lardos restaurant in McCall Idaho for lunch. Another hour and we arrived at our hotel in Riggins. After settling into the room we headed to the hospitality room where we were joined by Jack Myers, no relation although when Jack was president of the California Senate I served as his Vice President and we were the "M & M Team". Past US Senate president Hap Hilbish was there to greet us as well as many long time friends from Region 9.A short drink then it was off to Seven Devils restaurant for dinner just a few blocks from the hotel. Actually I guess everything was just a few blocks from the hotel. Although the food was great I think we overwhelmed them with our number. We were seated outside and the smell of the open grill made us all the hungrier. I assume that the grilling was the issue as the table that I was seated at was served dead last and many of the others had already finished their meal and were departing for the bar or the hotel. The ladies at our table of 7 were getting a bit cold so we moved inside to finish our meal in comfort. When we returned to the lodge we found that the hotel serves homemade cookies and milk every night and we did not refuse to partake of their generosity before trudging off to bed.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
After the meeting Aaron led 3 vehicles laden with the visitors up as far as we could go in the mountains surrounding Riggins. The snow finally got too deep to traverse. We stopped frequently on the way back to see the wonderful view of the mountains and valleys.
We stopped at the Rapid River Salmon Hatchery where we learned everything about harvesting and fertilizing Salmon eggs to the final release of the young fish for their return to the Pacific Ocean. Our guide was quite a character although quite an expert in this operation.Back at the hotel we gathered a small group and walked to a local cafe for lunch. Then we had an hour to retreat to the room for a rest.
The Region 9 meeting began at 4PM, There were the usual reports then my entire team of officers presented their case to the members for electing them to their next office. Will Hansen was slated to be elected as the Region 9 Vice President but some of us could not let him be uncontested. I rose in nomination of Jack Myers, my illegitimate father with some raving banter about how great he was, Sonny Jones from Oregon, seconded his nomination. Jack then spoke of his qualifications (or lack thereof). We all had a lot of fun and the members present had a good belly laugh before Jack withdrew his candidacy. Will was unanimously elected.
Dinner in the hospitality room followed and conversations abounded, storied were told and lies were abundant. Finally everyone would down and it was time for bed.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Denise and I had a late flight out of Boise so we rose, packed and joined the others for breakfast. Mike, Steve and Bruce had earlier flight and had already left the hotel. We loaded our gear into Will's car for the return to Boise. On the way back we stopped briefly at Will's Mom and Dads home then drove to Table Rock to see the Jaycee cross. It was quite a hike to the top from the parking lot but we made it and it was a spectacular view of Boise. We made our way back to the car then to the center of town and lunch at Bitter Creek Brewery. Will then delivered us safely to the airport for our quick hour and fifteen minute flight home.Thanks to President Aaron and the Idaho Senate for a wonderful weekend.
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