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First Annual Diamond Cup Regata Highlights - 2010 The 2010 edition of the Diamond Cup Regatta is in the books and organizers have declared it a success. For three days countless people of all ages, both locals and visitors, long time hydro fans and those who became fans this weekend, touched, heard and talked vintage hydroplanes and the memories of The Diamond Cup Regatta. For the first time in 42 years, the sound of an unlimited hydroplane's roaring V-12 rumbled across Lake Coeur d'Alene was heard. With the wonderful cooperation of the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum in Kent, Washington, the Miss Budweiser, Miss Thriftway, Miss Wahoo and the Miss Bardahl (aka Green Dragon) were the stars of the weekend along with Hydroplane legend Mira "The Flying Czech" Slovak. As the first of what will be an annual event, The Diamond Cup Regatta is purpose driven to not only celebrate a special time in Coeur d'Alene history but to be a cornerstone in raising funds to build a new Museum of North Idaho. The weekend's crowds appreciated both the memories and the mission. On Friday and Saturday the Miss Wahoo, Miss Thriftway and Miss Bardahl were displayed in front of the Coeur d'Alene Resort. The Miss Budweiser visited event sponsors Centennial Distributing and Super One Foods before being displayed at the Museum of North Idaho for the duration of the weekend. Friday starting at 4:00pm the three vintage hydroplanes took turn firing up the giant Rolls Royce and Allison engines, much to the delight of the crowd. The sound of the big V-12's brought rounds of applause, cheers and an occasional tear. Saturday saw even more people stopping to take photos and talk with the hydroplane crews. Old timers showed off Diamond Cup pictures and booster buttons. Stories and memories were shared with smiles. On Saturday night the Diamond Cup Banquet was held at the Coeur d'Alene Resort with attendance of over 100 hydroplane and Museum supporters. Speakers included Scott MacPhee, President Museum of North Idaho, Doug Williams, Museum of North Idaho Board Member and Chair of the Diamond Cup Regatta, David Williams, Director of the Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum and featured guest of honor, Mr. Mira Slovak. Museum Building funds were raised with both a silent auction of various items and a live auction for rides in the vintage hydroplanes. On Sunday the weather turned after two perfect days and high winds and lake chop limited the hydroplane runs to a couple brief laps by the Miss Wahoo with David Williams at the wheel. His report on conditions brought disappointment to the fans and the boat crews who we so eager to run on Lake Coeur d'Alene. The vintage boats are literally priceless and with an emphasis on safety, it was agreed by all that they wouldn't risk lives or equipment on a day less than suited for high-speed runs. It didn't dampen spirits though as the crowd in the "pits" at Murphy's Landing were enthusiastic and enjoyed another day of hydroplane camaraderie. As the event drew to a close it was agreed by all that the return of The Diamond Cup was a wonderful affair. The boat crews had a great time in Coeur d'Alene and committed on the spot to not only return next year but help build the Regatta as time goes on. The hydroplanes have returned to Coeur d'Alene and this time they're here to stay. Celebrate Scandinavian American contributions to our local community The Museum of North Idaho is featuring Scandinavian demonstrations in conjunction with the feature exhibit: Nordic Roots Run Deep and the centennial of the local Sons of Norway lodge. The International Sons of Norway convention in Coeur d'Alene from August 29 to Sept. 1. Aug. 29 Sunday: special Museum hours 1-3:30 p.m. The Johansen family of Johansen Textiles, Mullan, Idaho, will bring a loom to illustrate how they create Finnish rugs, table runners and placemats. The couple has studied weaving techniques in Finland and import most of their fabrics from there, but the weaving tradition in their family dates back to Danish great-grandparents. Fjord horses, a mare and foal at the Museum Parking Lot Aug. 30 Monday special Museum of North Idaho hours 6 pm to 8 pm. Sept. 18 Sat. 2-4 Ebba Ostrom and friends will share Scandinavian cookies and Swedish costumes. Oct. 2 Sat. 2-4 Lefsa baking. Jan Olsen will show how this "Norwegian Tortilla" is prepared and eaten. Oct. 9 Sat. 2-4 Leif Erikson Day will be celebrated at the museum with Fjord horses, Pamla Silk teaching people to create the red and white woven hearts so common on Scandinavian Christmas trees, be they Danish, Swedish or Norwegian. Visitors can also make a Viking magnet. These activities will be the museum's Art From the Heart event. And just to show the museum's heart is really in the right place Barbara & Asbjorn Rostad will serve heart-shaped Norwegian waffles. Oct. 16 Sat. 2-4 Danish abelskiver, will be prepared by Inger Aagesen. Oct. 30 Sat. 2-4 Asbjorn Rostad will demonstrate the making of krum kake, a favorite Norwegian holiday cookie. The Norway native took this job over from his wife one Christmas, later received an electric krum kake maker, and now churns them out by the dozens in short order. Come see how it's done and sample the cardamom-flavored cookie.
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TheMuseum of North Idaho is located at 115 Northwest Boulevard in front of the Coeur d'Alene City Park. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., April 1st to October 31st. Please see map below. Admission: Adults $3.00; Families $7.00; Children $1.00. Admissions and store sales support the programs, exhibits, and educational activities of the Museum. Admission includes entrance to both museums and both are wheelchair accessible. Members are admitted free and receive 10% off in the Museum Store. The Museum Store features a wide selection local history books, locally made silver jewelry, souvenirs, and gift items.
The Fort Sherman Museum is located on the North Idaho College Campus.Open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., from May 1st to September 30th. (see map below) Questions
or comments? Museum of North Idaho |
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