Northwest Road and Ferry Conditions
Washington State Department of Transportation
British Columbia Ferries
Trucking Information
Gay Truckers Association - a professional association representing gay drivers. Not just another sleazy porn site but a real chance to offer professional advocacy for the entire trucking community, whether dispatcher, freight broker, or driver.
www.truckstop.com - a comprehensive site for truck drivers.
www.paccar.com - the worlds finest trucks; Kenworth and Peterbilt.
Layover.com - comprehensive guide for truckers including loads, jobs, informative articles on all aspects of trucking and free e-mail for truckers.
http://www.mackswimsuit.com Not all drivers are fans of Kenworth's and Peterbilt. So for those of you MACK fans, here is a site sponsored by MACK Trucks dedicated to the finer things in life
http://fpm.emory.edu/prev_med/truckers/research.htm and http://fpm.emory.edu/prev_med/truckers/ Community Health Project Mobility and Population Health Office, Department of Family and Preventive Medicine Emory University School of Medicine
Trucking Publications
http://www.gaytruckersassn.org
www.OOIDA.com - the first drivers organization. Their monthy publication is an invaluable aid.
www.RoadStarOnline.com - a monthly trucking publication by Newport Publications. While more objective than Truckers News, sometimes the managing editor, Deb Whistler, seems a bit too cozy with the trucking management.
www.eTrucker.com - Truckers News. Published by the North American Truck Stop Organization. A fine feature magazine that covers a broad range of trucking issues. Unfortunately, some of their editorial focus is a bit biased towards towardss the needs of the truck stop industry instead of the drivers that patronize them.
http://www.pheonixpages.com/cilwa/Trucking/petition.htm As many folks are discovering truckers, railroad workers and aviation employees are among the most exploited workers in North America. Exempted from Federal Fair Labor Practices legislation these vital workers are not eligible for overtime compensation, they are exempt from hourly labor regulations and they are not protected by minimum wage legislation. Thus transportation workers find themselves working many uncompensated hours for wages that often don’t even meet federal minimum wage standards. We urge you to sign this petition and forward it to your friends.
Cruising The Pend Oreille Country.
The following links showcase what a great part of the world the Pend Oreille/Selkirk/Kootenai/Clark Fork Region is. Take a trip online and we're sure you'll agree. Better yet, come visit!
http://www.sandpoint.com A comprehensive list of things to do and see around Sandpoint, Idaho including links to Coldwater Creek's flagship store, The Pend Oreille National Scenic Highway, and recreational opportunities available for Lake Pend Oreille, one of the deepest and largest lakes in North America.
http://www.schweitzer.com One of the West's premiere ski hills, the mountain also hosts a variety of summer activities from trail riding to mountain biking to music festivals. The views from the village at the summit are simply breathtaking.
http://www.StayInWashington.com Here you’ll find a comprehensive guide to the many regions that make up the great State of Washington!
http://www.cabinfeverltd.com A local business, located just across the border from us in Sandpoint, Idaho, remains one of our favorite destinations. Cabin Fever truly has something for everyone.
http://www.silverwoodthemepark.com Home to the number one amusement park in the Northwest and the Intermountain West, Silverwood boasts a giant water park, 60mph wooden roller coasters and more fun than anyone should have in a single day. Less than an hour from the ranch, the park is a great mid week getaway.
http://www.selkirkloop.org The Selkirk International Scenic Loop was recently voted by Sunset Magazine as the most scenic drive in all of the Northwest. We agree! High Mountain Ranch is located at the southern end of this excursion that covers what is known as the Selkirk/Kootenai (Or Kootenay for our Canadian friends) regions of northeastern Washington, the Idaho Panhandle, south eastern British Columbia Canada, and western Montana.
http://www.libbymt.com/areaattractions/index.htm A comprehensive list of some of the Cabinet Range and her most undiscovered but scenic jewels. Details about Kootenai Falls, Ross Creek Cedars, Yaak Falls among others can be found here. Ross Creek Cedars and Kootenai Falls are found just north of Clark Fork Country on one of Montana's most uncrowded but spectacular drives along the pristine Bull River.
http://www.montanarailtours.com A great deal of fun, this company regularly offers excursion trains for the "locals". We especially recommend the fall colors rides as well as the Christmas Train excursions.
http://www.observemontana.com For anyone just passing through Montana, this site offers some excellent links to various places with unique insight into local attractions.
~A Guide to Inland Northwest Winter Destinations~
Many fans of the site are also avid skiers and snowboarders. After all, when rodeo season is shut down for the winter, what better way to end up in your local emergency room! Although local resort areas are not as popular or famous as Colorado , California and Canadian Resorts, that isn't necessarily a drawback.
INSA (Inland Northwest Ski Association) represents five local resorts, and we've also added a sixth, Red Mountain , just across the Canadian border from us. All of these resorts are roughly an hour or less from Pend Oreille County .
http://www.ski49n.com Located on the recently upgraded Flowery Trail Highway , keep your eyes poised on this resort during the next few years. 49 Degrees North is halfway between Chewelah Washington, and the internationally renowned Selkirk Loop that runs through the northern half of Pend Oreille County .
http://www.schweitzer.com Known as the Mountain on the Lake , Schweitzer is the ritziest of our local hills. Overlooking Lake Pend Oreille , The Cabinet Range and Sandpoint Idaho , this resort offers views extending into three states and two provinces. Complete with lodging and food services adjacent to chairlifts, Schweitzer is a fraction of the price of Whistler, Vail, and many of the California resorts.
http://skilookout.com Immediately off the summit of I-90's infamous Lookout (Below!) Pass, this mountain straddling the Idaho and Montana State Line offers exceptional value. Less than an hour and a half from Spokane , Lookout Pass is the least crowded of all the local resorts. Snowboarders and skiers alike travel from throughout the West to experience Lookout and for those travelers looking for a bit of exercise between the Twin Cities and Seattle , nothing beats a few runs down Lookouts finely groomed trails.
http://www.silvermt.com An hour east of Spokane , Silver Mountain is also located conveniently on I-90. Offering the only gondola lifts in the northwest region, Silver Mountain has bragging rights to some of the finest views of the Bitterroot Range .
http://www.mtspokane.com Hands down the closest resort to the Spokane Metro Area, Mt. Spokane offers regular hours of operation for night skiing as well as quick and easy convenience for local snow boarding fans.
Due to this resort's proximity to Spokane , conditions vary and its best to check ahead as to what local promotions might be running. Again, lift tickets are very reasonable, and the staff is eager to accommodate everyone ensuring an enjoyable experience on the mountain.
http://www.ski-red.com Although this resort is located in Canada , near Rossland BC , even with the border crossing Red Mountain is very convenient to other INSA resorts. Die hard skiers can easily buy half day passes and ski at 49 Degrees North during the morning and hit the Red Mountain Slopes during the afternoon. The U. S. Dollar continues to stretch pretty dang far with the current Canadian Exchange, so a weekend at Red Mountain can be a super value.
http://www.huckleberrydelightsidaho.com Huckleberry Delights offers a dazzling array of gourmet Huckleberry products from chocolates to syrups to barbeque sauces. Located just across the Idaho border from the ranch, this small venture offers a legitimate taste of our region.
http://www.bbcookies.com If you're one of those folks who never seems to make enough time for breakfast, have we got the perfect breakfast fix for you. Bakers Breakfast Cookies are the ticket.
http://bookcrossing.com Created by local visionaries in Sandpoint Idaho, Bookcrossing.com has reinvented the wheel. Allowing book fans to “set free” their favorite literary offerings, bookcrossing.com is spawning new life into old titles and giving newer authors wonderful exposure.
http://www.brenthartinger.com With his first work out, Hartinger the author of the highly acclaimed book “Geography Club” targets the young adult market with a book that is long overdue. If you haven’t read “Geography Club” pick up a copy and better yet, after your done with it, set it free through “Bookcrossing.com”.
http://www.blithe.com A great site for literature, Blithe Quarterly publishes a diverse assortment of progressive gay related fiction. But, even if you're one of our straight fans, there's plenty of good talent here. Add in sparkling content, clean fresh writing, and thought provoking plot development, and we're pretty sure any fan of literature will want to bookmark this site.
http://www.keokeebooks.com A small press located in Sandpoint, Idaho, this eclectic catologue of titles perfectly represent a regional selection of "broke the mold at birth" local writers. Look for Greg Nichol's hiking guide to the Selkirks to be published soon.
http://www.uptownstudios.net Diverse interests, artists, and political discussion(s) as part of the line up.
http://www.pitcherlady.com/A close look at the photojournalistic work of Susan Adcock as well as some of her thoughts regarding her amazing photography. Capturing the world of the biker gang, the migrant farm labor and the carnival operator on the midway, this talented woman has repeatedly demonstrated advanced ethnographic skills as she documents the lives of those around her.
http://www.glessnergalleries.com Another talented photographer, Tim Glessner has a skilled eye for the most delicate wonders of nature. Many of the subjects he captures would be missed by the casual observer yet under his lense they shine.
http://www.livingwilderness.com Renowned photographer Kevin Ebi developed an exceptional site featuring some of the best photography we've seen on the net. Many of his photos are available for sale and stock use, and he is constantly offering new, breathtaking images to showcase the Pacific Northwest Region.
http://www.digitalblasphemy.com Tired of the same old desktop screen savers? An amazing collection of digital art with numerous themes from sci fi, to naturalist images, to out and out…well, out there!
http://www.chumchumgames.com Considering that we are in the heat of the presidential election, why not gather your friends together for a little harmless politics?
As most fans of the site are aware, Tim's family has been involved in horses for five generations, starting clear back on a Montana Homestead. Tim's grandmother won awards for her appearances in area parades and his mother is a former Spokane Rodeo Princess. Because traditions die hard, here are some links to share with more urban readers the events and western culture that remains dear to our heart. We've also included links to some of the better merchants that support these lifestyles. From Western Art to Rodeo, enjoy the view from the information highway.
~~Rodeos
Omak Stampede The grand daddy of the original "x games" spirit the Omak Stampede draws controversy and sympathatic support from the strangest collection of bed fellows. Home of the infamous "Suicide Race", like most of the better northwest rodeos, this event has strong Native American participation.
Ellensburg Rodeo One of the top 25 PRCA sanctioned rodeos in the world, the Ellensburg Rodeo combines Native American and non native events. Held annually over labor day weekend, this rodeo has a three ring circus quality. Numerous races and competitions occur at the same time in various arenas within view of the grandstands. Admission includes the gate fee for the Kittitas County Fair.
Pendleton Roundup Another of the top 25 PRCA sanctioned events, this rodeo week of events begins on the second weekend of September and offers top name entertainment for ten days. Beginning with the Pro Bull Riders events and finishing up with the Pendleton Round Up, this is western culture at its finest. Top name entertainers are on deck for this years concerts including Willie Nelson, Rascal Flats, and Phil Vassar as well as another performance of the Happy Valley Pagent. While in the area, check out the Umatilla Nation's museum adjacent to the Wild Horses Casino and Resort as well as the flagship store of the Pendleton Woolen Mills.
http://www.IGRA.com Home to the world's second largest professional rodeo circuit, IGRA rodeo can be found scattered throughout North America. Many PRCA cowboys compete on this circuit which tends to be as much about fun as it is about racking up buckles.
~~Western Art
http://www.geocities.com/saddleupart Mark Houde is a very talented Canadian western artist who combines an appreciation for western values with exceptional vision. His art is found beautifully displayed at various rodeos as well as pictured on his site.
http://www.wildwestart.com Showcasing some of the finest western artist this site includes work by Nanci Glazier and Tim Cox.
http://www.toh-atingallery.com More great western art is found here. Some lesser known artists such as Claire Goldrick are found on this site as well as the extremely popular Tim Cox.
Watercolor Cowboy A fine watercolor artist hailing out of the Midwestern plains
http://www.timberstand.com Home of the former Lyman Gallery and famous artist Stephen Lyman, this gallery is one of the premiere places to find high quality art representing local culture. Lyman was killed several years ago in an unfortunate accident in Yosemite but his work remains visionary and changed the face of western art.
~~Western Merchantile
http://www.HAVwesternwear.com Proprietor Vikki Hoskins has become a one woman show when it comes to marking her territory against the big box western chain stores. Tim has experienced first hand her dedication to customer service and hospitality.
~~ A Horse is a horse of Course
North Wind Arabians Breeding Authentic Egyptian Arabian horses with the athletic ability for cutting, reining, endurance and the intelligence and temperaments to be your best friend.
D'Habi Arabians A small breeder of quality authentic Egyptian Arabian horses bred to race, ride and work.
Arabian Horse Fair A new organization for those who like to show, trail ride and compete in arena events with authentic Arabian Earn points toward national prizes!
United States Arabian Horse Registry The lower cost, full service Arabian Horse Registry!
The Pharaohs Horses Complete site for those who love the Egyptian Arabian horse.
Spokane Sporthorse Farm Probably one of the most athletic and skilled exercises in horsemanship is the sport of dressage. Practicing a level of riding expertise that few horsemen ever master is an ongoing education in communication between horse and rider. If you'd like to learn more about this advanced competition, Sporthorse is a great starting point.
Last Chance Ranch An all volunteer organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of Horses, Ponies, Donkeys and Mules.
http://www.foxyhorseandhound.com A great site for horse enthusiasts and anyone hoping to support Dressage hobbies, whether it's jumping or endurance riding, check out this local site for a great collection of bridles, saddles and novelties.
Global Village
Intellicast.com - Need Weather? Just plug in your area, where you load is going, and this site provides endless information, including precipitation, wind, and radar imagery forecasts. Especially helpful for people pulling light or weather sensitive loads.
Earthlights - A very cool site with the big picture view of what the planet looks like when the lights are out.
Space Weather - For those folks up along the Highline, this site forecasts solar storms and possible views of them hard to pin down Northern Lights. For those of you too far south of the Canadian Border to see these displays, there are pics on the site of some of the more recent spectacular displays.
Additional Links ~
http://www.CDBaby.com For those music fans tired of the same ol' same ol' musical offerings, there's a new game in town. Featuring some of the artists we've spotlighted on the site, CDBaby helps struggling new artists and a few long time creative forces to market their work without some of the compromises other distribution outlets demand. Check ‘em out!
http://www.ashley-macisaac.com Although controversial, MacIsaac continues to produce some of the more poetic, and creative cutting edge music-especially on the international “World” music scene. A Nova Scotia based gay grunge fiddler MacIsaac diverse talent transcends the flak his live performances and outlandish stage presence has create
http://www.siriusoutq.com The first satelite radio service with a channel geared especially toward the GLBT community. Many gay truck drivers have signed up for this service and listen to OUTQ Radio and the network has responded by offering programing especially geared toward gay drivers. You can listen to Tim's appearance on the Michelangelo Signoreli Show here.
Mark Weigle - Sample some songs from Mark's very talented singing career. Mark is just as nice in person as he sounds on his soothing and higly acclaimed albums. Mark performed at the 2001 get together. His new album is due out soon.
Jon Williams - Jon Williams is among the nations most talented DJ's. One of the DJ's featured in Tim's story Sweet and Sour Hot, this guy is a very talented performer in his own right.
Crystal Meth - Tim has written about meth in the story Going Bump at Compline. Whether its called Crystal, Tina or Go Fast, Meth is one of the most dangerous drugs on the street. Once used by truckers to run straight through, coast to coast now consumed by gay men to endure a weekend of circuit parties, this drug is not only addictive but can be fatal. Get the low down on this controlled substance and its effects.
http://www.joycek.com/whokilledradio.html
http://alfred.phpwebhosting.com/home.htm - Host site of 6PC organization. An international gay business and networking organization with members located throughout the world. A valuable online community that seeks to put varied people with common interests in touch with one another
Outright Radio - An impressive collection of voices from throughout the nation, David Gilmore's impressive program continues to win awards. Please consider supporting next season's lineup.
Photos from Events - various incriminations from the High Mountain Ranch Social Calendar.
Ruralgay - the first guide for rural gays.
Texas Cowboys One of the last remaining active posses this group represents a southern alternative to the bar scene. A great place to find commonality in a non sexual environment, check out their calendar and if you’re in the area consider participating in some of the events.
Gay Outdoors Tired of the bars, the bowling leagues, and the same ol' same ol'? This group of like minded folks regularly plans outings to various locations throughout North America. The site includes personals, tips and recommendations for enjoying the outdoors, and a "g" rated place to surf on the Internet.
Family Acceptance A great site full of encouragement and examples of family values and traditional family acceptance. Need an upbeat moment? Log on and feel the love.
http://www.jakesez.org Very useful information regarding HIV, STD's, and safer sex information. A great resource that everyone should be familiar with.
http://www.TheTaskForce.org As the political season heats up, one of the hot button issues is gay marriage. No matter what side of the political fence you might be leaning, this site offers a wonderful selection of first person narratives and opinions on the subject.