Cd'A: Be a citizen, not just a resident

I’ve lived in Coeur d’Alene for 57 years and I have to say the last few months have been the ugliest period of time in my life. The splitting of my community was disruptive and negative and certainly not the norm for a town known for so many positive aspects.

While I have my own issues about McEuen, I found it ironic how a group mad because they couldn’t force a vote on it would be so willing to promote a recall that would install City Council members without a public vote. Was it a case of can’t see the forest for the trees or just trying to load the council with their pals by takeover? Either way, I’m glad it’s over.

And I’m most glad the shine has returned to my city. This year’s Car d’Lane was great, the cruise and show brought smiles by the hundreds. Congratulations and thank you to the Coeur d’Alene Downtown Association and North Idaho Classic Car Club; another year well done.

Then there’s Ironman Coeur d’Alene, an event that truly brings out the best in our community. It couldn’t have come at a better time and I could see and feel the boost in positive attitudes and a return of pride to our city. Because of these attributes and the thousands of volunteers, we have become one of the most popular Ironman venues in the world. Thank you to each and every volunteer and citizen who made these athletes feel welcome.

Ahead lies Fourth of July, Art on the Green/Street Fair, the return of the Diamond Cup and with winter the Festival of Trees and other seasonal events. These, along with countless civic and community organizations and efforts all make this a very special place.

Our little city has its fair share of problems and controversy but I think we can all agree that there is no place on Earth quite like it. If you love this area as much as I, embrace it, take pride in it, be a citizen and not just a resident and be a part of what makes this such a wonderful place to live (and visit).

DAVE WALKER

Coeur d’Alene