By Vern Holmquist
My father told me a little story about Sen. Daniel Webster who may have had a bit too much to drink and was asleep on the Senate floor. “Senator, we are discussing the National debt,” the senator was told.
Webster awakened with a start and exclaimed, “How much is it? I’ll pay it.” Well, I can’t pay our National debt but I may have a suggestion as how to pay it.
When friends of mine have found themselves badly in debt, they appraised their assets and sold off what they could to pay off the debt. Now I’ve been appraising our countries assets to see what we could sell off to pay off our debt, something big enough to get us free and clear. I’ve come to the conclusion that Texas would be sufficient. I know a candidate who could handle the deal and make a few million dollars for himself.
Well, it looks like Homer Davenport Days were a big success in Silverton. I have been a little handicapped and missed the Davenport Races but I felt driven to dance to the blues music of Norman Sylvester’s band at the kick off party, (when Norm moved to Portland he brought his New Orleans jazz with him). Oh, and by the way it was also opening, reopening day for Howard Hinsdale’s Cellars which I’m sure is a real winner, nicely done, low key and intimate.
Polka time is not far away, that floating dance floor in the new Festhalle will give an added bounce to all you Bavarians who have been waiting to try it. To me there is only one way to describe Oktoberfest and that is FUN TIME. After 13 years that I have experienced this World Class Event I’m still amazed at how Sleepy Hollow pulls it off. Congratulations to the dedicated crew. As I understand it, all of our favorite entertainment will be back, I’m anxious to hear Darlene bang the drums and witness the crazy antics of the Saltzbury Echo Band, you pick your own favorites, there’s a lot to pick from.
I do not think Silverton resident Victor Madge, who designed Festhalle, has been given enough credit for his work and his design. The evening of the Air Force Academy Band brought out the beauty and possibilities of this great addition to Mount Angel. Congratulations to Victor, and of course the locals who saw their dream come true.
