tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25052350578624985152011-07-08T01:01:03.696-04:00This page is designed as an outlet to share thoughts on Politics, Religion, Environmental Issues, Literature, Fly-fishing, or the Events of the Day. Read, enjoy, and share your thoughts.Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.comBlogger1481100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-53871575157475199412010-06-04T16:00:00.001-04:002010-06-04T16:19:11.417-04:00

From chapter 8 - advice by an old newspaper editor to a young Rabo Karabekian... "'I never prayed before, but I'll pray tonight that you never go to Europe as a soldier.  We should never get suckered again into providing meat for the cannons and machine guns they love so much.  They could go to war at any time.  Look how big their armies are in the midst of a Great Depression! 'If the cities

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-12453965111782043612010-06-02T17:30:00.029-04:002010-06-02T17:40:27.571-04:00

Taken from p.134 in the chapter "May"... "In our valley, we have but fifteen such gardens of any significant size left.  They require a minimum size of one thousand acres to be classified as potential candidates for wilderness designation - formal, permanent protection by Congress - and in order to qualify must not ever have had any roads built into them. Such has been the frenzy of extraction

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-24975281184233714292010-05-27T13:00:00.004-04:002010-05-27T16:29:18.276-04:00

I stand with a creel void of conquest - a lesson in life once more. You can not catch that which does not wish to be caught. But I am a fisherman.  So I turn, smile, and cast once more, Wading upstream, hat-in-hand. - F.H.W.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-44631184619481428692010-05-26T11:00:00.001-04:002010-05-26T11:11:35.588-04:00

Ravalli Republic -- Wolves, Constitution Hot Topics at Forum ... hosted by the Ravalli County Fish and Wildlife Association, Monday night. "Not one had a good thing to say about wolves, but they were all in favor of the Constitution," summarized Ravalli Republic reporter Perry Backus. A comical observation, but what did you expect from a dog and pony show hosted by an organization that has

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-72289354067714727232010-05-19T01:00:00.012-04:002010-05-19T01:00:04.562-04:00

Oh, Vonnegut... "Breakfast of Champions" left me torn. On one hand... I found "Breakfast of Champions" to be an immature collection of rantings complete with illustrations. The frequent reference to assholes and "wide open beavers" that was at first necessary to set the dark tone for the book, quickly segued into something that would only captivate an adolescent (think "Catcher in the Rye"). Oh,

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-40072282068524032942010-05-17T14:00:00.000-04:002010-05-17T14:28:17.041-04:00

The dissonant nay-sayers from the asphalt of life are diluted by the chorus of songbirds and the ramblings of the river.No longer am I a cog in the human machine. I am in tune with the stream, preparing to cast a simple melody. - F.H.W.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-85841754658008465832010-05-15T11:00:00.001-04:002010-05-15T11:46:29.944-04:00

Magazines and newspapers dressed in photographs of trout, fly-rods, and remote waterways draw my attention like fish to a fly.  The images are a combination of sport and solitude and are glimpses of the secrets held within its pages, a tease I find difficult to ignore.  Today's New York Times printed an article on floating a lesser known section of the Colorado River, below the Glen Canyon Dam.  

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-37086248325437862392010-05-06T13:30:00.001-04:002010-05-06T13:51:06.155-04:00

The bottom line is that a long day of shopping the big name box stores for a reel push mower didn't pay off. We returned home tired, dejected, and a little upset. Fortunately, there was a silver lining. The few mowers we did give the once-over gave us a better idea of what we were looking for, or to be more accurate, what we were NOT looking for. So, we left Big Box Store U.S.A. behind and

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-52261067212037655762010-04-28T13:00:00.003-04:002010-04-28T13:14:50.385-04:00

Is there a better way to take in the rhythms of nature,burn off a few calories,explore new territory,recreate on the cheap,and reclaim your sense of calm,than hiking?Hiking is therapy in old tennis shoes.The family and I have continued investigating local parks and trails since our move to the Empire State, just traded gymnosperm for deciduous, clear mountain streams for muddy brooks, and

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-78296024975494532902010-04-22T09:30:00.001-04:002010-04-22T09:55:53.682-04:00

Yesterday, the shit hit the fan... or the reel, as it is.The weeds in the yard are getting a bit long, long enough that we could no longer ignore them. So the other day, I came to the conclusion (with a lot of persuasion from the wife) that after putting it off as long as I could that it was time to buy a mower. (Sighhhhh...)Now, mowing our lawn isn't a big deal. We don't have a sizable yard

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-68479102588541496292010-03-30T10:00:00.002-04:002010-03-30T10:30:15.232-04:00

Ravalli Republic -- Hunters Need to Get Involved to Save WildlifeTony Jones, President of Ravalli County Fish and Wildlife Association, writes a call to action in today's Ravalli Republic, to motivate hunters and fisherman* to get organized to save the valley's big game animals... so that hunters can kill them later.As Mr. Jones states, hunting is a boon to the economy of Ravalli County. It

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-35603062061177920172010-02-08T14:00:00.000-05:002010-02-08T14:37:19.844-05:00

G: Dad, where are we going?Dad: We're taking a ride on a train.G: Is it a big train?Dad: Yes.G: Why are we riding the train?Dad: We have some errands to run in the town South of us.G: Why?Dad: Because some things need to get done today. Hold my hand.G: Daddy, why do I have to hold your hand?Dad: Because we're crossing the street and I want you to be safe. O.K., now look both ways.G:

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-2022408267405133512010-01-28T10:00:00.000-05:002010-01-28T10:18:11.476-05:00

USA Today -- Oregon Voters OK Tax Hikes on Wealthy, BusinessesIn order to help close a budget gap, the Oregon voters increased income tax from 9% to 10.8% on single filers making over $125,000 and married filers making over $250,000. The annual minimum business tax will rise from $10 to $150, a tax unchanged since the 1930s. Oregon has no state sales tax.Best, least original comment to this

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-86976209494505643892010-01-27T10:00:00.000-05:002010-01-27T10:33:04.435-05:00

Where money equals political influence, the Supreme Court's ruling on corporate contributions to political campaigns has further reduced the importance or influence of "We the People..." over our elected representatives, something not lost on all the justices of the high court.But as The Button Valley Bugle points out, perhaps this decision comes at an opportune time, when Americans are

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-16933379663881871472010-01-26T11:30:00.006-05:002010-01-26T11:40:48.330-05:00

I am not a quote fanatic, but being a student of history, I often find that what was said in the past is applicable to the present and can guide us in the future... provided we listen. Three quotes to digest:"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." - Franklin Delano RooseveltThe often quoted line was uttered by FDR during his inaugural address on March 4, 1933. It was meant to calm and

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-46282447823483344602010-01-25T10:00:00.002-05:002010-01-25T10:30:26.533-05:00

We are a generous nation. Our response and commitment to the quake victims in Haiti was both swift and substantial and it can be measured in dollars, food aide, volunteers... and by the number of American reporters that showed up in the first hours after the quake in Port-au-Prince. Unfortunately, Americans have a tendency towards the tabloid (ex. Tiger) and sensational (ex. Jersey Shore) and

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-91428754434954517702010-01-19T10:00:00.001-05:002010-01-19T10:59:28.638-05:00

There is always an ample supply of silly (and slightly scary) rhetoric coming from the Root that provides me with hours of free entertainment, without tuning in to FauxNews. A couple of recent articles have been especially interesting (and alarming).From 1/12/2010:In a guest editorial, Dan Tomlinson asserts that global warming must be a hoax because... Ya, I could not determine how he came to

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-5303713492640649452010-01-08T18:00:00.002-05:002010-01-08T19:56:24.473-05:00

Today, when surrounded by the chittering of newbie parents, I often recall what it was like to be childless and in similar company - the sense of being trapped, cornered, ensnared in unwanted conversation, and providing the customary head-nods to show sympathetic agreement despite having no understanding nor interest in the trials of parenthood. Good times.Of course, having a three year-old of my

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-79189952297759166482009-09-16T12:30:00.002-04:002009-09-16T12:53:38.469-04:00

USA Today -- Sen. Baucus Unveils Health Bill Without RepublicansPolitico -- Health Bill Puts Heat on SnoweMax Baucus releases his version of Health Care, one that does not contain a public option to compete against the insurance biz, and Republicans show that their opposition has more to do with the "game" of politics than the issue of health insurance for all Americans.--Question: If a less than

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-71318919042189270152009-09-07T10:00:00.001-04:002009-09-08T10:18:29.131-04:00

MentalityNew York City brings together a diversity in spoken language, skin hues, and culture. But there is one thing most New Yorkers share, a manufactured obliviousness to other people.It is interesting to witness a person fain ignorance to your presence as you pass them on the sidewalk, even when the two of you are the only two people within eyeshot... in any direction... in a residential area

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-55663095375449600412009-09-04T13:00:00.001-04:002009-09-04T13:04:45.397-04:00

USA Today -- Planned Obama Speech to Students Sparks ProtestLesson plans sent to schools originally suggested that students write letters to themselves "about what they can do to help the president." That language prompted conservative radio host Glen Beck to say the White House goal is the "indoctrination" of children.No, Glenn. "Indoctrination" is the goal of FauxNews....but seriously,

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-3973629363300214262009-08-11T22:30:00.001-04:002009-08-11T22:30:00.632-04:00

How many of them do you think don't have health care?

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-36469437496358406642009-08-11T10:30:00.002-04:002009-08-13T08:29:31.596-04:00

It's difficult to find news of any consequence anymore on the morning & evening news programs, because most of the air time is devoted to the latest celebrity death or reality star fiasco (Kate who? Michael, who cares?) But every morning I give The Big 3 the benefit of the doubt and allot them 15 minutes to convince me that they are serious for my attention. Most mornings the 15 minutes end

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-3189632413710668562009-08-06T09:00:00.000-04:002009-08-06T09:17:23.851-04:00

USA Today -- Report Urges Separation of Science and StateThe "Science for Policy Project," headed by the former House Science Committee chief Sherwood Boehlert, a retired Republican from New York, and Don Kennedy, former editor of 'Science,' suggests conflict over stem cells, climate and other science "has left the U.S. with a system that is plagued by charges that science is being 'politicized.'

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-18328643866121467522009-08-05T15:00:00.000-04:002009-08-05T15:09:27.543-04:00

MSNBC -- Obama: 'Unleash prosperity for everybody'The President is in the Elkhart, IN area discussing reinvestment in America. Elkhart has been particularly hard hit during the downturn, experiencing a 15% rise in unemployment and is a microcosm of the much larger issue playing out across the U.S. Every state in the union will receive a portion of the $787 billion economic stimulus funds.Right

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-66881066981612289012009-08-04T00:30:00.001-04:002009-08-04T01:01:28.600-04:00

"The free market economic principles practiced in the United States provide Americans with the best health care in the world."Supporters of unregulated, unfettered business practices are, undoubtedly, ardent supporters of this statement. Of course, the honest response to the above statement is, "Well, yes... sort of... if you can afford it."It's true that the United States has one of the most

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-81242876320067819842009-07-29T11:00:00.000-04:002009-07-29T15:46:50.743-04:00

Malkin's mindless twaddle

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-13869457871493608382009-07-22T00:30:00.001-04:002009-07-22T00:54:52.398-04:00

Have you ever tallied the number of driving violations on your a.m. commute? It's astonishing how many people have either forgotten the rules of the road or just don't believe they apply.Now, I witnessed more than a few violations in rural MT. Things such as not using a turn signal, not wearing a seat belt, or the worst, not having your mandatory "Save 100 Elk, Kill a Wolf" bumper sticker

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-62168283982448605162009-07-20T09:00:00.001-04:002009-07-20T09:06:17.920-04:00

"Too busy," in short. After living and working in a city apart from the fam, packing up an apartment, moving back home only to pack up a house, taking three weeks to visit friends and family on a cross country move with the wife, a cat, and a little girl, I finally have a little time to sit, relax, and purge - traveling across America provides one with a lot of new material and disaffection to

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-21858319082101437852009-03-24T03:00:00.001-04:002009-03-24T03:00:03.056-04:00

A fishing buddy of mine and I have thrown around business ideas for some time thinking that if we came up with the perfect idea that we could make a go of it in the valley we love. We came up with numerous ideas*. One of my favorites was to resurrect the milk delivery truck. We would deliver organic dairy to people's doorsteps daily in reusable pint containers. It didn't seem like a bad idea

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-54927386547204075312009-03-23T17:00:00.001-04:002009-03-23T17:20:31.261-04:00

As I sit and think on this overcast afternoon, I can't help but ruminate over the political party that calls itself the "Big Tent". This in turn triggers memories of the circus and being young. I like the circus.Under the self described "Big Tent" are the small gov't, fiscal conservatives; those that advocate little government intrusion into business. In-other-words, they believe in a laizze

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-46128933283789995682009-03-20T13:00:00.001-04:002009-03-20T13:00:00.097-04:00

Reading is a lot like writing for me, it happens in spurts depending on the subject and my mood. Some books can be read in a matter of days, others take months, no matter the number of pages. And now with a family, a job, travel, March Madness, and a new fishing season starting, it's a wonder any reading or writing gets done at all.In Robert Sullivan's book "Cross Country..." (a book I have

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-46200108071378730022009-02-12T13:30:00.001-05:002009-02-12T13:49:21.053-05:00

Attempting to have an insightful, in-depth conversation with a young adult about current events, literature, politics, religion, or any topic outside the teen bubble is often like trying to have a conversation with my toddler, although to her credit the two year old is usually more responsive than the "I don't know." offered by a teen.*Kudos then to Ana Beard, a Hellgate High School (Missoula, MT

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-45984238777167241522009-02-12T12:00:00.000-05:002009-02-12T12:01:48.934-05:00

Ravalli Republic -- Helping Each OtherFrom the Ravalli Republic article by Will Moss:"For as long as soldiers have fought and died for their country, the idea of war has been romanticized.We see it in movies, on the television and in the video games that our children play for hours on end.The concepts of patriotism, sacrifice, honor and bravery are heralded, and for good reason - the men and

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-84681815038797127122009-01-13T12:00:00.001-05:002009-01-13T12:03:55.731-05:00

USA Today -- Clinton Pushes Pragmatic Foreign PolicyHillary Rodham Clinton, testifying at her confirmation hearings for secretary of State, told a largely friendly Senate Foreign Relations Committee that foreign policy must be based on "principles and pragmatism, not rigid ideology.""We must use what has been called 'smart power,' the full range of tools at our disposal," Clinton said in her

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-65041759975192459222009-01-12T10:00:00.000-05:002009-01-12T10:09:35.820-05:00

Listening to W go off-script is like watching a train-wreck in slow motion. It's difficult to decide what's worse: the poor worded sentences, the inability to check emotion, or his ideological flaws. After listening to today's news conference, it's clear that his speech writers and advisers have already packed up and left.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-38299334677403123242009-01-07T11:30:00.003-05:002009-01-07T11:34:40.186-05:00

I'm suffering from post-election, post-New Year's hangover, and I think reality is setting in. It's time for a good escape....started a book entitled "Cross Country: Fifteen Years and 90,000 Miles on the Roads and Interstates of Amer..." blah, blah, blah (long title) about a transcontinental trip from Portland to New York by author Robert Sullivan, his wife, and two kids. It was recommended by my

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-55064396771194966172008-12-31T12:00:00.006-05:002008-12-31T12:00:04.524-05:00

Truthdig -- Party to Murder"The use of terror and hunger to break a hostile population is one of the oldest forms of warfare. I watched the Bosnian Serbs employ the same tactic in Sarajevo. Those who orchestrate such sieges do not grasp the terrible rage born of long humiliation, indiscriminate violence and abuse. A father or a mother whose child dies because of a lack of vaccines or proper

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-11101951890863980782008-12-30T14:00:00.002-05:002008-12-30T20:16:35.569-05:00

Vanity Fair -- Farewell to All That: An Oral History of the Bush White House(Excerpts from Vanity Fair article)Richard Clarke, chief White House counterterrorism advisor: The contrast with having briefed his father and Clinton and Gore was so marked. And to be told, frankly, early in the administration, by Condi Rice and [her deputy] Steve Hadley, you know, Don’t give the president a lot of long

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-88633162388332713292008-12-25T03:00:00.000-05:002008-12-25T03:00:03.730-05:00

Peace.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-41459357411268286112008-12-24T18:00:00.002-05:002008-12-24T18:07:05.030-05:00

The holiday season is a time when friends and family gather together to visit, feast, and exchange gifts with one another. It is also a faith-filled time where religious communities reunite to rekindle their spiritual beliefs. It is truly a joyous season filled with family and religious tradition. But I must agree with Ms. Shigley, that my least favorite holiday tradition is the "annual list of

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-11194439359178383622008-12-24T14:00:00.002-05:002008-12-24T14:00:00.369-05:00

Bitterroot Star -- Letters to the Editor (12/24/08)1st Amendment - State/Religion/GodDear Editor,It doesn't come to my surprise that the majority of Americans can't decipher the word God from religion. God IS NOT a religion. God is a Supernatural Being. Religion is a faith in God - religions being Christianity, Judaism, Islam, etc. Faith is your church - be Catholic, Mormon, Methodist, Baptist,

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-59205220431566077672008-12-19T11:00:00.002-05:002008-12-19T11:00:03.394-05:00

In an interesting letter to the editor printed in the Bitterroot Star (12-10-2008), a Hamilton geologist discusses disaster flood insurance, county oversight, and the Robak and Fox properties where two homes are going up just feet from the banks of the Bitterroot River.Floodplain fiascoDear Editor,I wanted to talk about the building in the Floodplains of the Bitterroot River in Ravalli County.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-6437015841918920322008-12-19T03:00:00.010-05:002008-12-19T03:00:04.966-05:00

Every once in awhile I run across a blog or website that I consider "blog worthy" and worth a link on the WFB sidebar. It seems that in the past month I have found a few that meet the nondescript qualifications. So if you have some time to waste, spend a few minutes checking out the following additions.A Montucky Point of View is an issue driven site from the blogger that supplies scenic

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-25267242449306729622008-12-16T01:30:00.006-05:002008-12-16T01:51:05.307-05:00

Stuck inside and in need of a little streamside inspiration? Check out The Drake's 2008 Five Minutes of Fly Fishing Film Contest and vote for your favorite. Then, dust off that vice and tie up some of your favorite go-to flies for the season.I'll take a dozen.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-4944594502089462582008-12-12T20:00:00.005-05:002008-12-12T20:00:01.128-05:00

Well, it’s that time of year again when families come together to visit, celebrate, and participate in the annual gift exchange. Yes, the annual gift exchange where friends and family take turns unwrapping packages trying to project a sense of surprise and elation while at the same time swallowing the reflex to blurt out, “Nice! Look at this piece of crap! Just one more [insert article of

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-19918956963024454092008-12-11T03:00:00.000-05:002008-12-11T03:00:02.811-05:00

Rainforest Action Network - "We believe that a sustainable world can be created in our lifetime, and that aggressive action must be taken immediately to leave a safe and secure world for our children."Wow! Simply put, Rainforest Action Network (RAN) is out to save the world.RAN is an organization that seeks to break America's oil addiction, reduce our reliance on coal, protect endangered forests

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-14312851437242990132008-12-10T11:30:00.001-05:002008-12-10T11:42:54.661-05:00

Politico -- Joe the Plumber: McCain 'Appalled Me'"Wurzelbacher told conservative radio host Glenn Beck that he felt 'dirty' after 'being on the campaign trail and seeing some of the things that take place.'"I guess Joe couldn't smell the stink before he got on the bus."While Wurzelbacher was critical of McCain during the interview, he had nothing but praise for his running mate, Alaska Gov. Sarah

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-87064152229266302342008-12-08T03:00:00.009-05:002008-12-08T03:00:02.811-05:00

The September Project is a grassroots organization started in 2004 focused on engaging and bringing communities together in local libraries around the world to discuss issues of freedom and democracy.In 2004, the September Project was born "to break the silence following September 11th, and to invite all people into libraries to consider topics of patriotism, democracy, and citizenship. Initially

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-21227178793690231332008-12-06T03:00:00.001-05:002008-12-06T03:03:22.275-05:00

"How is THIS news?" is a phrase repeated often during the half hour of evening news in this house, a phrase that is eventually followed by 'click'.One would think that network anchors could fill a 25 minute broadcast with informative, in-depth news stories, especially considering that 24 hours and an entire world's worth of current events have passed since the last broadcast. Instead, the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-58417171716465992832008-12-03T03:00:00.004-05:002008-12-03T03:00:03.828-05:00

FoodRoutes begs you to ask the question: Where does my food come from? Not surprisingly in today's mechanised, industrialized world, much of America's food supply comes from large corporate farms, grown in large scale and spending days being packaged and shipped from field to plate - hardly fresh and hardly environmentally friendly.The FoodRoutes Network wants to reintroduce America to its food.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-82705859098086182482008-12-02T03:00:00.002-05:002008-12-02T03:00:06.921-05:00

In "The Secret History of the American Empire", author John Perkins prods readers to become active in or make financial contributions to nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that take on the corporatocracy. Over the next couple of days, I will spotlight a few NGOs in order to gain a better understanding of their mission and share with people how they can support efforts for lasting change in the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-31835518738281789812008-12-01T01:00:00.007-05:002008-12-01T01:04:52.773-05:00

John Perkins's globe trotting adventures as a self-described Economic Hit Man (EHM) in "The Secret History of the American Empire" is a one of a kind history lesson in U.S. international affairs and economics over the last 40 years. Perkins sheds light on the discomforting close-knit relationship between the U.S. government and corporate America and shakes off any naive, preconceived assumptions

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-34643070553489485892008-11-20T14:00:00.003-05:002008-11-21T10:37:20.696-05:00

Ravalli Republic -- Robaks Fight County Over FloodwayAny fisherman who has waded or floated the section of the West Fork of the Bitterroot River just upstream from the Nez Perce bridge is familiar with the Robak house. The 4600 square foot log home sits just a few yards from the West edge of the river and only a few feet above the river-rock lined bank. I remember wading this section the day the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-58146569549631281012008-11-19T18:30:00.000-05:002008-11-19T18:33:49.055-05:00

Ravalli Republic -- Mitchell Slough Ruled Open to RecreationThe Montana Supreme Court overturned two earlier rulings by state district courts that found Mitchell Slough to not be a "natural, perennial-flowing stream". The supreme court's ruling is a win for local sportsmen's groups and recreationists because it makes Mitchell Slough subject to Montana's stream access law and thus open to the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-60439696678189680202008-11-13T14:00:00.000-05:002008-11-13T14:23:45.707-05:00

The NewsHour -- Economic Slump Hits Residents of 'The Last Best Place'Montana's own Scott McMillion of the Montana Quarterly closed out The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer last night with a social essay on Montana. He described what it's like living in the Treasure State for many financially strapped Montanans. He briefly highlighted a Livingston woman's efforts to ease the burden of the 'working poor'

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-40082856912862972212008-11-12T12:30:00.001-05:002008-11-12T13:00:17.230-05:00

New York Times -- Darkness at DuskDavid Brooks, conservative commentator on "The Newshour with Jim Lehrer," writes an Op-Ed piece for the "Times" outlining the impending battle for the direction of the Republican Party between Traditionalists and Reformers. He describes the Traditionalists as those that continue to beat the drum of standard conservative issues like downsizing big gov't, cutting

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-38473270110413285592008-11-06T12:30:00.003-05:002008-11-06T12:35:54.312-05:00

kcfw -- Pastor and PoliticsA pastor in Kalispell, MT, has put a sign outside his church that says, "USA... One Abomination Under God" as a reaction to the election. Pastor Clint Theline said that because "we still have free speech" that he needs to "tell people that the nation is going in the wrong direction." He believes that voting for Obama "brings abomination to America, like more support for

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-33046072349642895432008-11-05T12:00:00.000-05:002008-11-05T12:00:12.442-05:00

Check out the inspirational final installment to the humorous website created on the run-up to the 2008 Presidential election, Palin as President.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-45744977889066114972008-11-05T11:00:00.007-05:002008-11-05T12:14:39.434-05:00

Missoulian -- Ravalli Growth Policy Appears Headed For RepealThe morning after a historic Presidential election that filled many millions of Americans with a new hope for the future, some Ravalli County residents are left with a mixed bag of feelings. The Growth Policy, a necessary component to protect the land, rivers, and streams of the Bitterroot from developers and other private interests and

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-27930619142514077032008-11-05T09:00:00.002-05:002008-11-05T09:15:17.985-05:00

Transcript of Barack Obama's Victory SpeechNovember 5, 2008Grant's Park, Chicago, ILIf there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible; who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.It's the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-82369230832546278802008-11-04T03:00:00.002-05:002008-11-04T03:00:01.883-05:00

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-54017413481861729962008-10-31T12:30:00.004-04:002008-10-31T22:43:55.875-04:00

USA Today -- Rifle Maker Bounces Boss Who Supports ObamaProof that gun-nuts are nuttier than pecan pie."Montana gunsmith Dan Cooper has been ousted as chief executive of the rifle company that bears his name after pressure from gun owners who are angry that he is supporting Democrat Barack Obama."He explains that he is backing Obama "probably because of the war. And also because the Republican

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-72178716371235836412008-10-29T17:00:00.002-04:002008-10-29T17:22:34.964-04:00

Ravalli Republic -- Incorporated Areas Left Out of Growth Policy VotexI was dumbfounded to read this headline in today's paper (actually my initial response was "What the F__k!"). It was just a couple of years ago, in a similar ruling by the county attorney, that city residents of Ravalli County were kept from casting a vote on an initiative to restrict the size of big box stores in the valley (

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-23904496954494658102008-10-25T00:00:00.006-04:002008-10-25T00:35:08.783-04:00

The New York Times -- Rule to Expand Mountaintop Coal MiningEvery president tries to cement his legacy in the last few months of his final term by passing 11th hour regulations. Clinton did it. He declared nearly 60 million acres of national forest off limits to logging and road building and tightened standards for arsenic in drinking water in his final days. One would think that Bush and Co.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-82385345928590328652008-10-24T11:30:00.001-04:002008-10-24T11:40:39.354-04:00

Ravalli Republic -- Man Faces Charges in Moose KillingA young Ravalli County man showed his red-neck roots by poaching a young moose outside of Stevensville this month. Like Forrest Gump, he was not a smart man. He bragged about killing the moose to one to many until a conscientious 'Rooter phoned him in to the authorities. Wardens found him in possession of several animals taken illegally.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-28572183696257250142008-10-20T03:00:00.002-04:002008-11-24T21:55:56.999-05:00

1968 was a watershed year in American politics and probably one of the most tumultuous years in American history. The nation was embroiled in an unjustified war in Vietnam, had an unpopular president in LBJ, witnessed the assassination of two popular public figures - MLK Jr. and RFK, and cities were consumed by race riots. Since FDR's New Deal, Democrats had enjoyed a long run in the White House,

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-15613788648058378532008-10-17T11:30:00.003-04:002008-10-17T11:35:57.513-04:00

I got a call from the NRA yesterday. A young whipper-snapper was filling me in on how my gun rights were under assault by certain members of Congress and I had a right to be informed. I asked for names and he couldn't give me any because "it wasn't a political phone call" (he later solicited me for a NRA membership). I listened for a little while longer and asked some more questions, but I

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-19966548782706086002008-10-16T19:00:00.003-04:002008-10-24T11:11:40.390-04:00

Thoughts From the 'RootThree men from the Bitterroot share their definition of a sportsman.Brent – “A sportsman is an individual interested in outdoor activities involving the pursuit of game animals or fish. I tend to believe the true ‘sportsman’ should be classified as someone that is more interested in being out in the field than actually have a ‘successful’ day in the field (full freezer or

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-38642811297648549822008-10-10T03:00:00.000-04:002008-10-10T03:00:03.089-04:00

A Sportsman's ResponsibilitiesWith the title of Sportsman comes a certain amount of responsibility. First and foremost, a sportsman must hand down traditions to the next generation by instilling in youth a respect for sport, environment, animals, and nature. It is a simple task. Take your kid hunting, fishing, and hiking, and lead by example. This creates another generation to advocate for the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-33103496304126862572008-10-09T03:00:00.001-04:002008-10-24T11:13:17.156-04:00

A Sportsman is an Animal ActivistIn a recent episode of “30 Days”, George Snedeker, an avid hunter from North Carolina, is placed in a home with a family of vegans from L.A. for 30 days. The family is active in the local affiliate of PETA. George does not understand nor agree with the vegans reasoning for not eating meat, but he is a good sport about participating in a protest against fur and at

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-38992824327306427242008-10-08T03:00:00.001-04:002008-10-24T11:14:44.886-04:00

A Sportsman is an EnvironmentalistThis statement presents a conflict to many Westerners who consider themselves sportsmen. They share a mindset that “environmentalists” are a fringe group out to ruin the livelihoods of blue and white-collar Western workers. Brent from the Corvallis area provides evidence of this mindset in the following quote.“While environmentalists would like to take credit for

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-42792997285814323722008-10-07T03:00:00.001-04:002008-10-24T11:16:02.457-04:00

A Sportsman's EthicsA sportsman understands that hunting, fishing, riding, and hiking are not rights, but privileges and that there are rules to play by just like with any sport.License sales are an integral part of improving and maintaining the activities we love. They fund animal population studies, improving stream access sites, education, and law enforcement.Seasons and bag limits are defined

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-24952706574940212382008-10-06T03:00:00.001-04:002008-10-06T03:00:02.416-04:00

The Evolution of a SportsmanOne of the first things a sportsman comes to realize is that he or she is no longer in search of game simply to dress the dinner table. This “need” ended long ago with the urbanization of America and the rise of industrial farming practices. Today, one need only drive to the nearest supermarket or fast food joint to pick up dinner. This is not meant to diminish the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-82945830106746623782008-10-03T14:00:00.000-04:002008-10-02T19:10:36.079-04:00

What does it mean to be a sportsman? Ask people and you will find that the definition varies with the individual. To one, it refers to someone who is serious about hunting and fishing. To another, it describes a person who is fond of hiking and the outdoors. To a third, it may just be someone interested in athletics. All are valid. But for some people the term takes on more significance. With the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-4101717949555327012008-10-01T00:00:00.001-04:002008-10-01T11:13:12.723-04:00

CBS News -- Palin Opens Up On Controversial IssuesThe transcript is below. Comments in bold italics.(CBS) As they gear up for the one and only vice presidential debate on Thursday night in St. Louis, candidates Joe Biden and Sarah Palin spent part of today prepping - separately, of course. Before the debate preps, CBS News anchor Katie Couric spent some time with Alaska's Gov. Palin on the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-39794125255733314042008-09-30T11:30:00.000-04:002008-09-30T12:03:04.076-04:00

Missoulian -- Rehberg Casts 'No' VoteMontana's lone representative in the House joined 227 other lawmakers and voted down the $700 billion bailout package for the nation's banking system. His reasoning:...He believed the tax-funded rescue plan didn't contain enough regulations to keep another meltdown from occurring and offered too many protections for “the people who got us into trouble in the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-85679257932861723032008-09-29T20:30:00.000-04:002008-09-29T20:51:16.613-04:00

"Gotcha Journalism" - The response by the McCain-Palin ticket to a statement in which Palin contradicted McCain's position on cross border attacks from Afghanistan into Pakistan.Just another example why Republicans are still the Kings of Spin.See CBS interview and transcript here; also here.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-79053635253910896342008-09-25T11:00:00.000-04:002008-09-25T11:28:57.530-04:00

CBS News -- One on One with Sarah PalinThe transcript is below. Comments in bold italics.(CBS) When CBS News anchor Katie Couric sat down for an exclusive interview with vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin Wednesday, she focused on the economy - but also addressed reports that the lobbying firm of Sen. John McCain's campaign manager received payments from the controversial mortgage giant

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-36842064402292825642008-09-24T11:00:00.000-04:002008-09-24T11:15:01.430-04:00

Every four years the nation is plunged into another presidential election. It consumes the media, the water cooler, and our minds. You can turn off the T.V. or radio, you can avoid certain personalities during the day, but you can't escape the ongoing debate in your head. Thank goodness for fishing. A visit to the stream is the perfect remedy for a mind frazzled from a week's worth of headlines.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-71101376147488317022008-09-19T11:30:00.001-04:002008-09-19T16:53:58.584-04:00

C-SPAN -- President Bush Remarks on the EconomyRepublicans want to "get gov't off business's back" (a true free market economy?), that is until business gets itself in over its head. Then they're glad the government and taxpayers are there to bail business out. How did America get into a position where one or two companies going belly up affects the rest of us this much? - deregulation,

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-90011212714386938182008-09-18T12:30:00.002-04:002008-09-19T10:25:09.645-04:00

Why does it seem there is a war on intellectualism in this country? The ability to set emotion aside and reason through a problem is something everyone strives to achieve. It is a quality we look for in a leader. So why does the Republican party go to such extremes to label anyone with a mind of their own an "elitist"? i.e. What's wrong with being smart?"Smart" is not unique to one party. I would

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-62976665070173698982008-09-12T09:10:00.010-04:002008-09-12T13:21:41.561-04:00

ABC News -- Excerpts: Charlie Gibson Interviews Sarah PalinThe transcript is below. Comments in italics.On Accepting the VP spotGIBSON: Governor, let me start by asking you a question that I asked John McCain about you. And it is really the central question. Can you look the country in the eye and say, I have the experience, and I have the ability to be not just vice president, but perhaps

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-16007419027837727602008-09-07T11:00:00.001-04:002008-09-08T23:39:42.338-04:00

Check out the interview of Thomas Friedman on Meet the Press.

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-75733455123113414382008-09-05T11:00:00.001-04:002008-09-05T11:25:32.864-04:00

There is a chill in the morning air and the leaves of the maples are starting to turn. School has started and the fishing is starting to pick up. I didn't see it coming, but Fall is here.It seems Obama underestimated the "Real Person" factor.I was walking with my daughter down the sidewalk yesterday afternoon and overheard two women leaving their place of work. The first asked, "Did you watch

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-45207247448579158312008-09-03T15:00:00.006-04:002008-09-03T16:49:14.991-04:00

Time -- Mayor Palin: A Rough RecordMy sweet librarian sister brought this to my attention the other day:[John] Stein says that as mayor, Palin continued to inject religious beliefs into her policy at times. "She asked the library how she could go about banning books," he says, because some voters thought they had inappropriate language in them. "The librarian was aghast." That woman, Mary Ellen

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-52671605180743484332008-09-03T10:00:00.000-04:002008-09-03T10:50:05.428-04:00

New York Times -- Disclosures on Palin Raise Questions on Vetting ProcessIt seems that John McCain was interested in choosing either Joseph Lieberman or Tom Ridge, people he felt comfortable running with, but was under pressure from influential conservatives to find another VP candidate because both men favor abortion rights. Enter Gov. Sarah Palin of Alaska.Oh, John... We've been watching over

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-88378822137931657702008-09-03T03:00:00.005-04:002008-09-03T09:11:36.673-04:00

Continuing where I left off yesterday,...Zoning Information BoothThree booths were set up concerning the growth policy in Ravalli County (zoning/streamside setbacks). The first booth was there to answer questions on the zoning plans provided for public comment. I found the guy manning the booth informative if not engaging (he was reading a book). But, he wasn’t trying to sell me or convince me of

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-72451156359774576832008-09-02T10:30:00.004-04:002008-09-03T09:08:39.816-04:00

It was an eventful day at the Ravalli County Fair again this year (as eventful as a county fair ever is). My wife, daughter, and I made the usual stops. We visited the animals and got some nice video of the young one meeting goats, sheep, and cows. We made a stop by the petting zoo and witnessed a toddler nearly drown a chicken in a water trough. I guess chickens don't float (perhaps she felt

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-48166315346724646742008-08-29T10:00:00.000-04:002008-08-29T10:58:27.885-04:00

A historic speech played out last night in Denver, CO as Barack Obama accepted the Democratic Party's nomination to be the next President of the United States. There really is nothing more to say. Click the pic to watch. Yes We Can! 'Nuff Said.USA Today -- Text of Obama's Speech (pdf)

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-82092410127920109232008-08-28T17:00:00.001-04:002008-08-29T01:43:16.543-04:00

I attended the Ravalli County Fair Parade this year for the first time with my young daughter. Watching a parade with your child definitely puts the annual spectacle in a different light. The same ol’ thing takes on new life when you witness the excitement in her eyes as she points out the balloons, horses, costumed people, floats, and yummy candy being handed out by generous strangers. She grips

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-69887068840772071182008-08-28T01:30:00.000-04:002008-08-28T02:45:08.425-04:00

Greg Lemon has updated his blog (finally) over at In Lemon's World. In an interesting post, he shares his reaction to Schweitzer's DNC speech and adds links from other perspectives. Lemon the prognosticator "predict[s]... a cabinet position for Schweitzer should Obama get elected." While it may be bold, it is not an unrealistic prediction if you understand Schweitzer's forward thinking energy

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-18761967862466912642008-08-27T14:00:00.005-04:002008-08-27T14:27:01.171-04:00

Gov. Schweitzer addressed the delegates last night at the Democratic National Convention. He was the final speaker before Hillary Clinton took the podium. His speech (link) was on energy policy, drawing distinctions between McCain and Obama. He cited Obama's support for alternative energy, something Schweitzer and the state of Montana are taking the lead in. He was loud and a little crass, the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-73708160011984312182008-08-26T18:00:00.000-04:002008-08-26T18:07:14.271-04:00

The September issue of National Geographic ran a small section entitled “Eco-Living: Food” describing 4 food movements. As I could not find links online, I took excerpts and listed them below. The food movements listed are not completely distinct and some are more restrictive than others, but for someone interested in reducing America’s dependence on oil, eating healthier, reducing the

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-70799621852678424032008-08-23T13:00:00.001-04:002008-08-24T14:26:58.680-04:00

I have joined an online conversation with a fellow Montanan entitled The Great Abortion Debate. I'll repeat what I said in my introduction."The title of this blog is a bold, eye-catching statement that describes what hopefully will at least be an interesting exchange of thoughts and ideas."And that's all I want. I'm not going into this with the preconceived notion that our dialogue will actually

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-84835961193078960892008-08-18T15:00:00.001-04:002008-08-22T15:32:51.964-04:00

USA Today -- Drive 55 Campaign Gaining SpeedNow that gas is about $4.00 per gallon, we're all going retro. Cars are getting smaller and we're driving less. The 70s are back, man! Could the 55 mph speed limit come back too? Doubtful. Expensive gasoline may keep our cars in park more often, but you can't tell Americans how to drive. At least that's the feeling I get from reading the comments

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-14583714343660941762008-08-17T22:24:00.004-04:002008-08-17T23:15:10.322-04:00

CNN -- Wind Power Brings Prosperity, AngerThis story shows that not everyone is happy about wind power. It is understandable that for one used to the sight of uninterrupted natural landscape and the sound of crickets putting them to sleep, that the sight and sound of wind turbines dotting the hillside is a significant change. And unless any of us have experienced living next to a wind turbine, it

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-45932044741378918352008-08-17T22:00:00.007-04:002008-08-18T16:01:32.680-04:00

USA Today -- Obama Discusses Energy Issues With PickensWhat can I say they hasn't been said earlier?Money buys you attention, as is evident with T. Boone Pickens meeting with both presidential candidates to push the Pickens Plan. To his credit, the Pickens Plan is a good short term solution to cut America's reliance on foreign oil, but it doesn't sit right that the salesman will reap huge profits

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-90975692875562193112008-08-15T18:30:00.001-04:002010-05-14T11:09:44.385-04:00

The 3 R'sMy wife and I incorporate the 3 R’s into our daily lives not only because it is a great way to green our world, reduce America’s dependence on oil, and save a few bucks at the same time, but because we want to be good role models for our little girl. I’ll share with you a few of our examples.The first R is reduce, of course; reduce the amount of waste we generate. It’s completely

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2505235057862498515.post-69283680620219244472008-08-13T03:00:00.004-04:002008-08-15T17:37:45.089-04:00

Make Your Home Energy SufficientIn other words, we must all ask ourselves, “How much energy is enough to fit my needs?” Notice I wrote needs, not wants; how often people confuse the two. And this is, of course, all about saving energy and money, right?! Let’s start with size. Just like with automobiles, large homes are energy pigs compared to smaller homes. Heating, cooling, and lighting large

Francis H. Woodshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13404804599030193709noreply@blogger.com2