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Feds called in to review landowner's sign Posted: Thursday, Nov 13, 2008 - 10:05:44 am PST By KEITH KINNAIRD News editor
VAY — The U.S. Secret Service is being asked to review a sign a Bonner County landowner put up which suggests a "free public hanging" of President-elect Barack Obama and several other political figures. The handmade cardboard sign also features a noose fashioned from a length of nylon rope."That's a political statement. They can call it whatever they want, a threat or whatever," said Ken Germana, who installed the sign on his property off Golden Gate Road in southwestern Bonner County. Obama's name is the most prominent on the sign, although it also bears the names of former Democrat presidential nominee John Kerry, current U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi and civil rights activist and former presidential candidate Al Sharpton.
Service, which is tasked with protecting the lives of presidents, presidential contenders and those who are in a presidential line of succession. "I'm sure they will be looking into it," Savage said on Wednesday. The Secret Service agent in Spokane, Wash., who was asked to review the situation was not immediately available for comment on Wednesday. The Bonner County Human Rights Task Force said it is outraged by the display. "Everyone has the right of free speech, unless it advocates the killing or hurting of someone or incites violence, which violates the doctrine of human rights," Christine Holbert, president of the task force, said in a statement. Holbert called the sign "hateful" and said its content is not protected under the First Amendment. "I would not want to be in this man's shoes when the Secret Service interviews him," she added. Germana said he poses absolutely no threat to Obama, but admits he would not lose any sleep if harm did come the president-elect's way. He said he made the sign to protest hypocrisy in two high-profile incidents involving effigies of Republican vice president nominee Sarah Palin and Obama. The Palin effigy was erected in Los Angeles and the Obama effigy was put up at the University of Kentucky campus in Lexington. Both incidents made headlines in the run-up to the general election, but Germana maintains they were treated differently by authorities and the press. In Germana's view, nothing was done to the creators of the Palin effigy, while those who were involved with the Obama effigy were arrested. "If other people can make political statements, so can I. Just because I don't live in California doesn't mean I don't have my rights, too," he said. Germana calls any insinuation that there is a racial tone to his sign malarkey, emphasizing that its message is clearly equal opportunity. "If these Katzenjammer cops want to pursue it, God bless 'em. But I've got my rights just like everybody else does," he said. coltsfan wrote on Mar 11, 2009 7:43 PM: " Peyton Manning and every other marque player in the NFL has these types of signs at EVERY NFL GAME. GET over it is free speech HATE WORDS are NOT hate crimes. The fact is we endorsed the HANGING of world leader Hussein what's another. Get real the man has an opinion and he stated it. Jeremiah Wright was investigated for his radical racial preachings. The guy is white and the ONLY race subject to being accused of RACISTS.. Enough Germana KEEP ON KEEPING ON. Why doesn't the Secret Service do their JOBS and investigate the DEFACING of AMERICAN currency the Hussein is doing with MONTEL by printing on american currency passing it off as OFFICIAL Presidential collection. He permitted the use of his image to deface currency. Perhaps this is how pelosi's stimulus bill is going to get funded by charging $20 for $2.50.. GEt the real CRIMINALS!! " patriot wrote on Mar 11, 2009 7:31 PM: " Ken, Is a patriot exercising his rights and will prove a point of reverse racism. Which is an issue. WHITE Males are the only one who seem to be tagged with this RACISM Burden. Enough is enough. Lets have a conversation on what is racist and hateful. Violent words and Statements are not CRIMES. GET over it. Jeremiah Wright wasn't questioned by SEcret Service when he was threaten America with his GODDAMN AMERICA rant which OBAMA endorsed. Obama is an as s clown who purchased a position with $500,000,000 Let's look at the fleecing of America. Germana has supporters. " Liberty Hops wrote on Jan 17, 2009 1:07 PM: " Hey CSMC63, So let me get this straight; you are saying that those who are critical of Ken Germana are wrong because he is a veteran in his 60's, and his detractors are not. (insert; "twilight Zone Theme Music" here) We are not speaking out against Ken Germana because of his military service, we are speaking out against actions that he has taken with the event in question. Oh, and by the way, I am an HONORABLY DISCHARGED UNITED STATES VETERAN MYSELF, so I guess that blows your theory ALL TO HELL dosen't it? " CSMC63 wrote on Dec 24, 2008 6:42 PM: " It appears that 90% of you people are perfectly ready to attack a man who is obviously in his 60's and a military veteran for a political opinion. Obviously you do this because you are confident that you can hide behind your computer. I find it interesting that you are perfectly willing to do this from the safety of your home and I would bet that you are the same people that defend terrorists, avoided the military and would not defend your country under any circumstances. I find it amusing that you can be so vehemnt in writing but would undoubtably avoid being inconvienced by volunteering to defened your country. It is a sad state of affairs when you will attack a man for a political opinion but would undoubtably go out of your way to avoid confronting anyone or any group such as, extremest muslims who have stated unequivicly that they intend to destroy our way of life and kill all unbelievers. Have you ever stopped to think that the opinions you have been stating would put you at the top of their list? The people that you are so happy to defend will be first in line to dance on your grave. Remember, it was said "I do not agree with what you say- but I will defend to the death - your right to say it" think about how many of you have so cavalierly treated the first amendment. The first amdendment protects freedom of speech, unpopular political speech. If you have enjoyed your freedom, and the ability to hide behind your computers, attacking people that thru their service to the country made that possible - then you are more than selfish and beneath contempt. Freedom is not free - enjoy it. Thank a vet! P.S. It won't do any good to run to Canada - they will come there too! " Idaho Native wrote on Dec 15, 2008 1:12 PM: " Pete Moss You must be a Crack Baby or you mom stood up to soon you have the wrong part of the country for what your talking. Unless yu be talking about your part of the country and some of your kin. Maybe yu be frum so Mo. Mizzisipe, cause you sure not from Gods country IDAHO, my be your familly is famillar with one part of Idaho that being HO. " Pete Moss wrote on Dec 1, 2008 12:28 PM: " "Hey Idaho Native"; What "Aunt" are you from, and what defective gene are you talking through? If you're talking about Idaho the change your gonna see is more inbreeding, less genepool over the citizens of which you are one unless you are abstanance. Maybe your one of them defective ones that drool on yourself outside your cabin in the Kountry while drinking Cult 45, the good stuff. Eh? " " JM wrote on Nov 29, 2008 6:30 PM: " Hey Nasty Ned Or Ted .. My guess is your a transplant from SanFran sissy. Go home Tinker Bell. " Idaho Native wrote on Nov 26, 2008 8:52 AM: " Kelly, Where are you from and what change are you talking about? If your talking about Obama the change your gonna see is more taxes, more government control over the citizens of which you are one unless you are exempt. Maybe your one of then enlightened ones that gaze into your crystal outside your cabin on Rapid Lightning while smokin the good stuff. Eh? " Kelly Richey wrote on Nov 19, 2008 9:49 PM: " How sad it is to see something this hateful and this outrageous. I trust that this country has a greater vision than man does and I hope change will help him to see things in a different light!!! " Idaho Native wrote on Nov 19, 2008 1:02 PM: " YogiSue, Why don't you assume the position of meditation and hope someone enlightens you and your California beliefs that in this day and age it will take more than Obama to make a better future for the USA and the entire Planet. I think you been smoking some of that Rapid Lightning ditch brush. Your pathetic. " Idaho Native wrote on Nov 19, 2008 12:57 PM: " Erin, You have no Idea what a "Redneck" is so keep you insults to yourself unless your in the know. None of us in the North say ya'll if you want a "Redneck" go to Missouri they enjoy asses like you, and they are proud to be called a "Redneck". " Idaho Native wrote on Nov 19, 2008 12:52 PM: " Jim, Good stay the hell out we don't need anymore, crystal gazers, bead stroken, mentally chanllenged folks like you here we have enough imports. Oh yeah and the broad that sits in the "Farmers Market" dressed up like a fairy selling her "see the next life" garbage came from California. " Jim wrote on Nov 18, 2008 6:49 PM: " this Idaho really sounds like an fun, enlightened place. Just do us all a favor and keep your ignorant asses they. We won't visit you and you don't need to come see us either. " Liberty Hops wrote on Nov 17, 2008 12:56 PM: " To; Dustin who wrote; " Obama is not my president. Those who voted for him are Communists traitors. I think it's time for a Civil War. " Hey Dustin; PRESIDENT Obama won THIS election with an OVERWHELMING majority. IF he is not YOUR PRESIDENT, then YOU DUSTIN are NOT AN AMERICAN. YOU want civil war? Under this condition, I call that TREASON! IF you have THE BALLS, go ahead! THOSE are the facts, so I guess the NEXT MOVE, is YOURS, isn't it Dustin. " YogiSue wrote on Nov 17, 2008 8:33 AM: " I am praying that people who have belief systems of hate and violence will in time be dinosaurs of the past. The fact that our country elected Barack Obama is a sign of hope of a better future not just for the USA but for the entire planet. We need to heal the globe of the ways of the past for the New Age has begun. " Idaho Native wrote on Nov 17, 2008 7:17 AM: " Carl - a woman with a badge and having her make sound decisions is like giving Charlie Manson a machine gun and letting him out of prison. A woman just does not have the guts to be a tuff law enforcemt officer. Unless it was that second b$&ches mother I was married to. But them only come once in a lifet time. " Idaho Native wrote on Nov 17, 2008 7:09 AM: " P J Hilke I do not think the state will go broke if you decide not to come to Idaho, in fact stay the Hell out we do not need anymore transplants or passer bys. See ya. " Idaho Native wrote on Nov 17, 2008 7:06 AM: " Ken Germana good for you stick by your beliefs, its what built America. For all you Obama lovers just remember the sign when your taxes go up and you can't support your famillies. Oh forgot most of you that have moved to Idaho do not have to worry about making a living someone else made it for you, and you are just spending it. " Idaho Native wrote on Nov 17, 2008 6:59 AM: " Reason take your pick Native American or Native Born. Oh so we Idahoans are back woods and you came here to bring us to the lite. You and people just like you foul the area you live in, and then move to a new area to infect. Your worse than a plague, you should never breed and pass on the "stupid gene" that you carry. Go back where you came from before someone makes you screem like a pig dude. " hereinnodak wrote on Nov 16, 2008 9:55 PM: " Look, this guy has the right to put up whatever sign he wants on his property...and yes it is his property, contrary to what some of the posters on here have said. The white man won the war...get over it or try to take it back...but please quit whining about how paleskin tricked you out of your land. But back to the point at hand...I am a firm believer in exercising rights guaranteed by the Amendments to the Constitution. He is not being racist...oh wait the noose is now a universal sign for racism...thanks left wingers for reminding me of that. He is unhappy with the government and the country because of the decisions that have been made. But really, who cares. He still has the right to say what he wants, at least until the abomination (obamanation) gets its grubby hands on Washington, and our rights are removed from us a little at a time. I believe he did say that "Americans are going to have to make sacrifices." We are going to get what you wanted. And yes, the Bee should be ashamed of even running this story. Lets show that anyone who is opposed to the president-elect is some crazy cracker out in sticksville. " Dustin wrote on Nov 16, 2008 9:55 PM: " Obama is not my president. Those who voted for him are Communists traitors. I think it's time for a Civil War. " County Comish wrote on Nov 16, 2008 8:27 PM: " "for the first time in my adult life I'm proud of a fellow citezen in my country"!! Time to do away with the secret service and the idiot sheriff of this county!! RECALL THE SAVAGE SHERIFF!! " irishwarlord wrote on Nov 16, 2008 6:38 PM: " This is the type of proud American we should all stand behind. We need more and more like him. In this time of obamanation. " Carl wrote on Nov 16, 2008 6:31 PM: " I'm tired of self-appointed watchdogs like Christine Holbert trying to define our standards for us. I take no orders from gadflies like Holbert, and I suggest others disregard her as well. She has no power over us save it be that which we give her. Let's quit empowering people like her. " Bob wrote on Nov 16, 2008 6:19 PM: " I am SICK TO DEATH of these fascists, I mean YOU Christine Holbert, constantly threatening people with the Secret Service in an attempt to stifle free speech! You want to know what his interview will go like if he is smart, Ms. Holbert? SS Agent - Did you threaten the president-elect Mr. Germana? Mr. Germana - Am I under arrest? SS Agent - No. We just want to talk to you. Mr. Germana - Then I have nothing to say. Good day! No terrorism, no shaking in one's shoes. STOP threatening people with "law enforcement" just because you don't like what they say or this country is going to get another revolution! " Trish wrote on Nov 16, 2008 6:14 PM: " its his property, he didnt commit a crime, he has the right to his opinion, and that doesnt hurt anyone, leave the man alone scumbags! " BAW wrote on Nov 16, 2008 4:45 PM: " I think the man makes a good point. "He said he made the sign to protest hypocrisy in two high-profile incidents involving effigies of Republican vice president nominee Sarah Palin and Obama." Absolutely believe Freedom of Speech has to be for everyone or for no one. Definately tired of Freedom of Speech only for the politically correct. " Chuck Glisson wrote on Nov 16, 2008 1:16 PM: " As far as this "Palin" effigy, I keep hearing SOME of you referencing as defense for Ken Germana'a action, I would not have approved of THAT either. TWO WRONGS don't make ONE RIGHT. Furthermore the American Indian IS the only TRUE NATIVE. No one said "give the land back", THAT is no more possible than it is for me to DEMAND a plot of land for myself in IRELAND, my native land. It was just a demand for recognition of THE FACTS, and SOME FOOL on here couldn't concede simple recognition over his own racist values. " leannain wrote on Nov 16, 2008 10:54 AM: " "Holbert called the sign "hateful" and said its content is not protected under the First Amendment." Sorry to inform Ms. Christine Holbert, the sign is protected under the First Amendment. Even if it is "hateful" As American's we have the constitutional right right to say anything we want. and we do not have a protection against being offended. This is what makes our country so great. I do not agree with the sign makers opinion but I would lay down my life to protect us rights to say it. " Dave Hancock wrote on Nov 16, 2008 9:42 AM: " To the other "Dave." Great points. To "Reason," my Grandparents came over from Finland. I was born here, America, I'm a native just as much as any Indian who's relatives came across the land bridge. PS: I don't consider myself a "retard" and I doubt if you made any allies with that comment. " Don Francisco wrote on Nov 16, 2008 9:41 AM: " To Chuck Glisson, Del Cameron and all you like them - when the libs do this, it's called "artwork" or "free expression". And they don't just make fun of them, they put actual effigies in a noose, and write books on how to assasinate them. But when a right-winger does the same thing or even much less (a sign, for God's sake), it's a crime against humanity. THAT is what he is pointing out that you are wantonly blind to - the shear hipocracy of the left in how people are allowed (or not allowed) to act. Soon libs will be allowed by law to murder conservatives, and their judges will see no problem with it. But if a conservative should defend himself, he will have violated the murderer's rights. Where does it end? " Jeff Bell London U.K. wrote on Nov 16, 2008 3:06 AM: " Having read this article, I would just like to say, since Obama has been elected President,the America people have shown the world that they are fair minded people. Even over here, in the U.K. our political parties are now being questioned over their selection processes! America's politics has finally joined,their music/film/arts/writers/poetry/research/ space programme/etc in becoming the best in the world, I wish Obama the best of luck.....But having said all that,Germana has a point,if its true, about the non arrests of the effigy makers of Palin in California. As long as fairness prevails, racists wont be able to get a finger hold which enables them to put their point of view across in the first place. " Del Cameron wrote on Nov 15, 2008 11:02 PM: " Dagnabit! I see other folks behaving like fools and idiots. Don't I have the same rights they do? " Reason wrote on Nov 15, 2008 5:47 PM: " So IDAHO NATIVE wants us to give North Idaho "back to the natives"? Nice work, idiot. Do you really mean give it back to the American Indians? Or did you just mean for us in "the asphalt jungle" to leave it to you and your backwoods retards? Sorry McCain lost, I'll be sure to help you decipher all the big words that Obama uses in his speeches so you can hate him properly. " dave wrote on Nov 15, 2008 5:47 PM: " open-minded is just another way of saying your liberal. north idaho is full of people who see things black and white (no pun intended) no gray areas. marriage should be between man and woman, kids should be spanked when needed, you can do what you want with your property, etc. if people don't like this and it sounds like some don't, then move to seattle. idaho is what america use to be. " Guess What wrote on Nov 15, 2008 1:17 PM: " We have posters here that don't even live in Idaho. So those of you who think we are ALL hatefilled people, please keep that in mind. Most folks here in Sandpoint are open minded and kind. " Chuck Glisson wrote on Nov 15, 2008 12:32 PM: " I concede that there has been alot of critical commentary against President Bush, John McCain, and Sara Palin calling them out as a liars, making fun of their abilities, and calling them out as an outright violators of the law, in many formats(speeches, bumper stickers, in the media, etc). I believe Barack Obama received the SAME TREATMENT, am I right? Thats ALL fine, thats ALL legal. What we are talking about here is conveying a threat of violence against someone, and THAT shouldn't be permitted against ANYONE. If you disagree with the actions/message of Barack Obama, then attack with commentary,(and FACTS!), but DO NOT use death threats! It is simply WRONG, and DOES NOT help your case. " Pop_Hicken wrote on Nov 15, 2008 8:29 AM: " I'm completely against this guys message, yet I'd have to be an idiot to not see a parallel to my own desire to hit a giant bush effigy with my shoe. (I learned it from the Iraqis) As many of you pointed out, we've taken great joy in 'cleverly' expressing our opinions for the last several years, now, Democrats have it, and this guy is feeling the same pinch. I want to take that away from him too? It's what kept ME going for eight years, Bush bumper stickers, T-shirts, the Daily Show. All of which were totally offensive to my more zeal-ful compatriots. Probably shouldn't link nooses to ANY black person, that's one of those things we learn in the big city, so his message might be lost in all the intrepretation. But the message Im getting from this ignorant cracker is "I'm scared as hell." I remember that feeling, I woke up with it every day for 8 years before last Tuesday. Is it really worth wasting tax time/dollars on this guy just to satisfy our revenge on this sad scared little monkey? Does anyone here really think he's dangerous? " Wallacite wrote on Nov 14, 2008 5:51 PM: " Thank you, Observer, for furthering the stink metaphor. True communication sometimes needs to be brought down to an elemental, decompositional level. Maybe they will be able to smell themselves. " Pj Hilke wrote on Nov 14, 2008 5:40 PM: " And to think that I always wanted to visit that part of the country. I can't surround myself with hate, it's just too uncomfortable for me. Just one less tourists money for your state. " Sam wrote on Nov 14, 2008 4:25 PM: " The land is not even your's Mister racist, not for the genocide your folks committed against the poor native Indians, u will not be labeling yourself a land owner " Observer wrote on Nov 14, 2008 3:15 PM: " Bonner County is a cesspool for hate..bubbles up and ferments...to all the people that support this guy, you smell like a sewer... " Chuck Glisson wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:56 PM: " "PHIL STADT" Funny how when guys like Phil Stadt are SO GOOD at dropping an INNUENDO about doing somthing. I don't play innuendo's Phil, so I caled you out to come out and TAKE A STAND WHERE YOUR MOUTH WAS HEADING, and you backed down. If You are not willing to BACK UP your inuendo's then don't say them, because Guys like me will CALL YOU on it, and GUYS LIKE YOU will cower and back down. As far as laughing at at the band? Why should I care what YOU think of MY band. My band NEVER intended to have IDIOTS like you as a fan anyway. We are a PORTLAND band, and we probably wouldn't be successful in Vay, Idaho, but hey, I actually take that as a complement! Peace Back Bro! " Phil S wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:16 PM: " Chuck, If you think what I wrote was a threat to you, you are more stupid than you come across in your writings. I hope you are the guy in the band that came up when I googled your name. If so you made my day, I haven't laughed that hard in a long time. Peace BRO!! " Idaho Native wrote on Nov 14, 2008 11:18 AM: " Sandpoint was a good place to live till all you transplants move to town and brought all your b*%#$@it ideas with you. We hunted and fished and lived the good life. You transplants come in wanting to "Get back to nature" and then try to tansform a quiet little community into the crap cities you came from. I say he has the same rights as that crack pot that did the Palin effigy leave him alone he did not sent it in the mail as a threat nor call anyone up and threatened them he put the sign right out in plain view. I think a couple of the names on the sign are whites so your racist claim does not hold water. Whats good for you Dummycrates (Palin efigy) is good enough for us Republicans so live with it, or go back to your asphault jungle and give North Idaho back to the Natives. " Chuck Glisson wrote on Nov 14, 2008 10:57 AM: " Hey Phil Stadt, If that is YOUR REAL NAME. YOU seem to HINT of solving YOUR arguements with a GUN. Are you THREATENING ME Phil Stadt? If YOU ARE, then just come out AND SAY IT, otherwise, SHUT UP! " TH wrote on Nov 14, 2008 10:39 AM: " racist blacks? black lovers? Hey RON? Where do you get racism out of this? The guy is physically threatening to harm public officials-NO MORE, NO LESS. I'm black, could care less about race. YOU CANT THREATEN THE PRESIDENT-ELECT, ok? That's a terroistic threat, plain and simple, no race involved " Reiko wrote on Nov 14, 2008 10:17 AM: " More power to this man. Stand up for what you believe in. The whole Palin being hung by homosexuals was okay and really didn't get in trouble and the degrading comments about McCain was okay. Give me a break. Some people are stupid if they want a man in office who has questionable ties to evil people. Those people are the ignorant ones. " Becca wrote on Nov 14, 2008 10:11 AM: " Bob: "Alot of straight white folk" wholeheartedly voted for President-elect Obama. Thank goodness, race was a non-issue for so many citizens. Intelligence was the key!!! And "tired of rap that we cause all evels" is an ignorant remark. Get over dividing issues by color because bad things happen to every race. Majority of us are more tired of guys like Germana here in Idaho who spew hateful stuff that reflects badly on our state. Lets work on being smart + respectful and we'll enjoy some peace. " James Layman wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:54 AM: " Many of you are still missing the point. It isn't so much about what Germana has done as it is the response to his actions, from many local liberals. Death threats, suggesting he be locked up, commit suicide, be deported, lose his property etc. etc.. Take a good long look at what you have proposed for Mr. Germana - then take a good long look in the mirror. As for you Mr. Glisson - you hateful, little man. If you can't get a hold of Mr. Germana, I am available in his stead for any contest you wish. " Leon wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:25 AM: " To all Bush haters, Take a good look at this guy and his sign. This is how you look when you rant and rave, and blame everything on Bush. Blame it on Bush or blame it on the "Bosanova", get over it!! " thetruth wrote on Nov 14, 2008 9:22 AM: " I was told by a co-worker about this article and these responses. I agree with Bob. It's never reported when there is hate crimes against whites. There was an article in the spokesman that hit home for me and made me really think about the double standard in this country right now. It was about 3 black UofI football players being kicked off the team for fighting. It didn't mention however that they started talking about thier gang affiliation at a party and were asked to leave. This caused them to start yelling how they hate white people, hit a girl and then assault the white owner of the house 3 on 1. Of course the papers never said this even though it was filed in the police report. Had this been three white kids beating a black it would have been headline news across the country. But hey it's ok what they did, they are a minority and have been oppresed so its all good..... It's a new world we have a half black president now. Oh yeah sorry to break it to all you people who love to cling to this race based bull sh*t he is only half black. You all feel the most important issue is what color his skin is rather than how he is going to fix our country. All you self hating white people are pathetic and are just as responsible for perpetuating race issues as the idiot who made the sign in his yard....Move on find something else to complain about.... " Phil Stad wrote on Nov 14, 2008 8:54 AM: " Chuck Glisson I challenge you to a contest on who can say the same thing the most times in a post in all capitol letters. And why is he a coward? I don't agree with what he has to say at all but at least he has the balls to stand up for it. If your such a bad a** why don't you drive out to his house and confront him it might take a while to pedal your bike since I doubt you VW bus runs right now, hopefully you are greeted with a 12gauge so there is one less dip Sh*t in Sandpoint. " RON wrote on Nov 14, 2008 8:33 AM: " This guy has a some big balls. Everyone needs to learn from this guy and grow some balls like him. Great job and don't let these racist blacks and black lovers bring you down. You have my full support on this one. " RCF wrote on Nov 14, 2008 8:13 AM: " Ken's sign is not racist he just doesn't like B.O.'s Communist politics. B.O. already is saying he will rule this country and not lead. That sounds like a dictator to me. Buy guns and ammo now! " You Wanted To Know wrote on Nov 14, 2008 7:59 AM: " Everyone asks why others didn't protest the hanging of Palin and others in California. Well, most of us don't read papers from that part of the country so we never heard about the Palin effigie being hung on Halloween for decorations. That's why I didn't protest it. Obama is black, we remember all the lynchings of blacks in this country and it kind of sets people off to see some yahoo put up a sign like this. Why Kerry? This guy was really expressing his dislike of Obama but added others names to make it look political and not racist. Just by the way the other names look added on after the larger "Obama" on the sign. " To subtlefuge wrote on Nov 14, 2008 6:51 AM: " True, we don't hear about women being lynched in this country..... but we do read about them being burned at a stake. hmmmmmmmm and about a LOT of black women being raped by white men - white men who were not punished.... hmmmmmmm " bob wrote on Nov 14, 2008 6:23 AM: " Do you anti white socialists ever think about how many innocent white people are hurt and killed in hate crimes evey year? These crimes don't get reported by the liberal media. It is OK for blacks to drive around with bumper stickers saying vote for anyone except for a old white man or t shirts that have a picture of the Bush presidents with dumd and dumber. I wouldn't ever do what this guy is doing but alot of straight white folks are tired of rap the that we are the cause of all evels. " Chuck Glisson wrote on Nov 14, 2008 2:47 AM: " Ken Germana, I am calling you out as a COWARD. I would LOVE the opportunity to have a "SHOWDOWN" on this subject, in ANY FORMAT YOU CHOOSE"! But I KNOW that a coward SUCH AS YOURSELF would hide in a corner, and avoid a REAL respectible ONE ON ONE CHALLENGE because you are NOT A REAL MAN on ANY LEVEL. So Ken Germana, if you accept MY CHALLENGE of a CONTEST of YOUR CHOICE, then I await your response. Otherwise, ROT IN HELL YOU CHICKENS#iT COWARD!Ken Germana, I am calling you out as a COWARD. I would LOVE the opportunity to have a "SHOWDOWN" on this subject, in ANY FORMAT YOU CHOOSE"! But I KNOW that a coward SUCH AS YOURSELF would hide in a corner, and avoid a REAL respectible ONE ON ONE CHALLENGE because you are NOT A REAL MAN on ANY LEVEL. So Ken Germana, if you accept MY CHALLENGE of a CONTEST of YOUR CHOICE, then I await your response. Otherwise, ROT IN HELL YOU CHICKENS#iT COWARD! " Scott Herndon wrote on Nov 14, 2008 1:03 AM: " Now if he could only hang a sign about Keith Allen Brown that got this much attention. Maybe then, Keith would not be at Guantanamo - oops, I mean the Idaho State Secured Medical Facility! " Enough wrote on Nov 14, 2008 12:40 AM: " Well I'm glad you are all doing exactly what this guy wants and reacting to his sign. Ignore it!!!! " cocollalla guy wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:45 PM: " I already see its hitting the news. looks like the chicago tribune, a paper in Hartford, and online topix in chicago are all running this so far. " Becca wrote on Nov 13, 2008 10:44 PM: " Its a terrible excuse to claim Germana has a right to post a hateful sign just because someone else got away with hanging a Palin doll. Two wrongs don't make a right! President-elect Barack Obama deserves our respect + honor as he enters into the huge job of healing our nation from the shameful Bush years. " 49er wrote on Nov 13, 2008 9:58 PM: " To ronnie: Wow, talk about the kettle calling the pot black? After now living for the past 6 years under an administration that has done everything it could to limit our rights to privacy and spy on Americans by every means possible, it's amazing that you exaggerate and cry about secret police when some crackpot loser makes racist threats against a politician. This is nothing new, every threat against a president is investigated, regardless of the ineptitude of the person making it. And just because the guy is on his own land makes no difference. " mary wrote on Nov 13, 2008 8:54 PM: " he needs to be led out of bonner county with the rope he designed. no wonder our nation can't come together with people like this. pity for him when secret service meets up with him. " Braveheart wrote on Nov 13, 2008 8:49 PM: " To "phxguy", try to seperate defending a citizen's right to free speech from defending the content of that speech. To "anon", there is a major difference between speech and the ACTION you suggest. Your mentality of everyone being the same in a group is simplistic. Why go below his level? I completely disagree with what this guy is saying, but I defend his right to say it. That is what free speech is. If he makes any move to act on his speech then arrest him. Is there a positive in all this? North Idaho reputation has done more to slow development than septic moratoriums, P&Z ordinances and all other county attempts combined. " ronnie wrote on Nov 13, 2008 8:39 PM: " From what I can see, this sign is on his own personal property. He has every right to post his views, free to speak his mind...free being the operative word. Obama hasn't even taken office yet and already we can see a frightening preview of what to come. Threats of the secret police, oops I mean secret service dawning on your door because someone reported you as speaking out against the government. Land of the free and home of the brave---not for long. Be afraid, be very afraid. It is amazing how the very people who are posting against this, they act appalled but spew the same type of speech in response to it, the only difference it is not directed at someone famous. Hypocrites! Should we send the secret police to your door for your right to post your opinion. " Wallacite wrote on Nov 13, 2008 8:28 PM: " Relax everyone. Contrast this dork and his sign to the president-elect and it becomes obvious how insignificant this is. If anything's objectionable, it's the additional stink that Germana's sprayed on my homeland. " phxguy wrote on Nov 13, 2008 7:15 PM: " One thing's certain. You racist white trash pigs who defend this retard don't leave me with a positive impression of white people. I'll leave it at that. " Oh Perki wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:50 PM: " You're so right....'cause we were doing so good when we were run by republicans....hold on while I bend over and grease up for you....Oh, sadly I ran out of grease in the LAST 8 YEARS!!! " anon wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:44 PM: " I wonder how Patriot Boy here would feel if some one put out a contract on his head, with a noose made for HIM. How well would HE sleep at night? If it's protected speech to offer up that image and statement of killing a fellow human being for their political beliefs, then it's just as protected a speech to offer up this cracker for a ritual sacrifice. Of course, all the right wing crackers and lunatics in this country want just that, thinking they have all the guns and can kill all the liberals if they step out of line. Crackers and lunatics, this is what the right wing in this country has become. Nothing more, nothing less. " Misty wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:36 PM: " I'm glad to see that for the most part people are not happy about this. No matter how you voted, it isn't ok. The same way as it wasn't ok to hang a Palin doll, or any other doll. Everyone acts like the little kid in school - But I only hit him 'cause he hit me and *whine whine whine* It doesn't matter that "the other kid got away with it" it's what we choose to do about "our kids" and unfortunately he is one of them. I don't think that this should be tolerated anywhere - and especially in the place that I like to call home - it saddens me that we have such ignorant people in here. WHY for Christ-sake does it matter what other people did or didn't get away with? Is that how we judge if something is wrong??? Get real.... " poli-sci major wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:31 PM: " Good for him! What is wrong with right wing radio? Now you who are against hi are all hating to! " perki wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:02 PM: " I don't understand the fuss about this. 30 or so years ago it was determined that "burning" the flag was freedom of speech but yet everone is concerned about a little sign? I did notice that it seems to be mostly Democrats that are upset and want to send this guy away forever without him having broken any laws and without trial, or even a hearing. And you all wonder why good americans are leary of Obama and his supporters being in power when your already wanting to take peoples rights away just because you dont agree with them. " An Idahoan wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:01 PM: " For all of you who state that you are embarassed to be living in North Idaho...three words of advice...THEN GO HOME!!! Talk about "hate", it's the people addressing this blog that are hateful. This guy has been publicly persecuted for his views. Give it up. " sagle resident wrote on Nov 13, 2008 5:57 PM: " While I may not agree with how he is trying to do it, he is just making a statement. Maybe a bad choice, but its his right to make that choice. Is he a threat to elect Osama? No...He is just expressing his rights, in the same way others have. Will he get busted? I doubt it. Will this get picked up on the AP or UP wire, I wouldnt be surprized, and thats all he is trying to do. Get attention to make his point. And all these people that are getting so upset, are accomplishing what he wants. It is still a free country, for now anyway. " Bill Litsinger wrote on Nov 13, 2008 5:56 PM: " Dear Miss Donna: You should not speak when you are uninformed. While I agree that this guy is a few bricks shy of a full load, he is not alone in his antics. Two years ago a group of radical Muslims at a mosque in Detroit we're yelling "Hang Bush, death to Bush." They were carrying ropes and praising radical muslim terrorists. It was covered in the media but nothing was done about it. They didn't face the wrath of even a local judge. It faded away and nothing more was said about it. Their were other threats to elected leaders in this country made by radical muslims in a post 9-11 march in Philadelphia. You may need to diversify your news sources. You might be watching the networks a little more then you should. Try some independent news sources. " RCF wrote on Nov 13, 2008 5:52 PM: " Ken you have the right to free expression and I am right there with you. I NEED one of those signs! I think I might make a sign for my property too! I wouldn't lose any sleep if something happened to B.O. either. Liberalism is a mental disorder. Buy as many guns as you can before B.O. tries to ban all guns. " Bob Wynhausen wrote on Nov 13, 2008 5:38 PM: " And I'll bet Ken is real proud to be an American. This goes right along with the swastikas sprayed on Obama signs in Idaho Falls. I'm glad to see so many negative responses to Mr. Germana's abysmal behavior. " subtlefuge wrote on Nov 13, 2008 5:21 PM: " Sorry, but the Obama and Palin effigies do not have the same meaning. They're both reprehensible to be sure, but our nation has an ugly history of lynching black men (and black women and children), not of lynching white women. So the two have completely different meanings. Nice try at spin, though. Are there any more racist actions that anyone here would like to defend? " Donna wrote on Nov 13, 2008 4:37 PM: " Is he nuts!! This is a blantant threat to the President Elect of our United States of ASmerica!! If someone from Iran or Iraq had done this they would be in prison or jail facing the wrath of a feseral Judge. I,m sure glad I don,t live in your country or state for that matter. Signed, Disgusted. " Carol wrote on Nov 13, 2008 4:35 PM: " I am not in favor of threats made towards anyone and I voted for Obama, however just like the government private citizens can pretty much say whatever they want to. In most cases private citizens can do whatever they want to. Spend government money on investigating crimes actually acted out instead of words put on cardboard, once again the government stricks, unbelievable! " RD wrote on Nov 13, 2008 4:09 PM: " When the Palin effigy was put up by that idiot, people protested, held up sheets in front of it and it was taken down. This guy made his point, time to take it down...now. Man there are some people on this blog who get really, stupid, nasty when offended. Chill " Pepe wrote on Nov 13, 2008 4:04 PM: " Hey, there was a Sarah Paling doll hung for Halloween and no one made the guy take it down so why all the fuss? " former resident wrote on Nov 13, 2008 3:45 PM: " Wow..what a great advertisement for life in North Idaho. This guy is a loose cannon and I hope the Secret Service takes him away..far away.... " whatever wrote on Nov 13, 2008 3:32 PM: " It is his property as said by American people are entitled to there own beliefs and opinions to be displayed on their property no one has to agree with him but it is his right to say what he wants!!! " Ralph Mavity wrote on Nov 13, 2008 3:27 PM: " A cardboard sign in the middle of nowhere is not front page news. I wonder if the names on this sign were, Bush, Palin and McCain, would the same interest be shown. To Marty Lenhart: the three people you name were responsible for at least 170 deaths and scores of injuries. You're saying that a goofy cardboard sign equals that??? " Seriously... wrote on Nov 13, 2008 3:21 PM: " Hey detractors stay focused, there is no racial component to this issue; the issue is that when this same speech is toward a Republican, like in LA with Palin, it's OK and when it's against a Democrat it is illegal, over the line and hateful. Fitz - As of Jan 21 Guantanamo Bay residents will be shipped back to the US, so not really a one way ticket... Marty - Don't forget Bill Ayers on your list of domestic terrorists. " Rob wrote on Nov 13, 2008 3:12 PM: " This is very disappointing on so many levels. I wonder why Germana feels that Obama, Pelosi, Sharpton, and Kerry should be hung, I seriously doubt he could articulate any reason for his hatred. The timing in California happens to be a big difference that many have seem to forgot, it was Halloween. Both references in my opinion are in bad taste. But lets not forget that it was not Obama, Sharpton, Pelosi, or Kerry that have misled the country to war or tortured innocent people. People like Germana make me ashamed to say I live in Idaho. " K.L.P wrote on Nov 13, 2008 3:05 PM: " Well, if i was elane, i would hand it off to, i mean, why not, she now has no job, why should she work? " Fitz wrote on Nov 13, 2008 2:49 PM: " This loose canon should be shipped to Guantanamo bay in an Orange jumpsuit " Marty Lenhart wrote on Nov 13, 2008 2:48 PM: " Germana is proof that Neo-Nazis,racists and anti-democratic bigots are still a pervasive problem in our country. He's no better than domestic terrorists like Tim McVeigh and Eric Rudolph and Robert Matthews and he deserves the same treatment they got. He is a disgrace to all Americans. " Fitz wrote on Nov 13, 2008 2:48 PM: " This loose canon should be shipped to Guantanamo bay in an Ornage jumpsuit " Free Speech wrote on Nov 13, 2008 2:30 PM: " Wow, free speech is not acceptable if it doesn't agree with your view. This guy is counter demonstrating the Palin hanging effigy. Where were all you folks when it was a white person being hung?? Or do you actually agree that we should hang white people? I don't think any "right" wings or "left" wings have a corner on the hate market. If many of you who posted on this letter are wondering just who the haters are, look in the mirror. Secret police to investigate a political statement? They didn't prosecute the guy who had the Palin hanging effigy. Oh, by the way, Ruby Ridge and Waco were administered by a left wing Democrat administration. " a friend wrote on Nov 13, 2008 2:14 PM: " He does have his rights. (I believe we still have amendment rights- do we not) It's his own property and seemingly "out in the boondocks" Don't we stll have the right to express our feelings. If the sign was anti McCain/Palin would any one ever say anything? NO - They hung Palin at Halloween and laughed about it. Hate is bad but when you are upset about something how are you suppose to vent? It is on his own property... " James Layman wrote on Nov 13, 2008 2:13 PM: " Yep, with Mr. Germana facing three or four public cries for his execution, long time imprisonment, deportation and the loss of his property - I can see the why Idaho is known for intolerance. Why didn't I hear these cries of outrage when vice presidential candidate Palin was hung in effigy in California? Explain to me how displaying the public hanging of Sarah Palin is some how less of a hate crime? Is it because Palin is a woman? A republican? What provides motive and justification to hang her in effigy? Why is it okay to hang her in effigy and not okay for Mr. Germana to do the same thing with Obama, Kerry and Pelosi only with words and not symbols? Or perhaps it is not okay to do either, but you folks were just to busy to be outraged when Palin was hanging in effigy off a chimney in California. The word is "hypocrisy". Many of the intolerant here calling for Mr. Germana's imprisonment, suicide and or execution could use a trip to the dictionary, if for no other reason than to learn how to spell. " Judy wrote on Nov 13, 2008 2:07 PM: " Yes the sign definitely displays poor taste. However, it is intuitively obvious that no real threat exists to any of the named persons. Mr. Germana is simply exhibiting his displeasure with the political persons in a way that pleases him. The last thing we need is to send a battalion of federal law enforcement "goons' up to harass this "kooky" citizen. Wasn't Ruby Ridge and Waco enough? " ASimpleDad wrote on Nov 13, 2008 1:40 PM: " Sure, it's only right wing people that do this. Except for the liberal, gay, radio host who wished on air for Joe the plumber to be killed. Or all the attacks on McCain supporters who dare to wear McCain shirts in the cities, colleges, and schools (see the hockey player girl in Minnesota or the 14 year old in Chicago http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/columnists/chi-kass-13-nov13,0,2881384.column?page=1 ). Whatever people. Party has nothing to do with it. It has everything to do with people who don't have tolerance for peoples RIGHT to their own views, just tolerance for people they think have the RIGHT view. Just look at Nasty Ted, calling for this man to die. You are no better dude. Dorothy Thompson, you as well. Violence begets violence. You don't defeat hate with hate, you defeat it by pointing out how stupid what this person is doing. However, he does have a point that no one came calling for action when the effigy of Palin was hung, however, the way he chose to do a counter point is pretty pathetic. One needs to respect the elected official of this land, even if for the last 8 years the left has been doing this exact same thing, although more subtly, with plays and books about killing the president, wishing he was dead instead of calling for his death, it is still not acceptable. I guess after 8 years of it some people just think it's now acceptable political discourse, when it's only acceptable if you have left leaning politics it seems. " Jeri King wrote on Nov 13, 2008 1:33 PM: " Ken Germana is trying to prove a point. It's not racial. He did say that there were two other incidents and only one was prosecuted. This is the point he is trying to make. Not the way I would have made it but nonetheless. How on earth can the "creators of the Palin effigy" not be prosecuted for advertising theirs and the "Obama effigy" be arrested? This is what our country has come to! It's sickening. " Patrick Guttin wrote on Nov 13, 2008 1:25 PM: " What an utter idiot. Just when we slowly think that our society is coming around slowly, we are reminded that there are still utter, ranting dangerous lunatics still out in our great community that serve zero purpose in our society. " Selective Anger wrote on Nov 13, 2008 12:45 PM: " Sure this is a stupid act, but it brings up the point of where was this RAGE when the two "artists" in LA that hung the Palin effigy? Seems to be very selective RAGE, thus hard to take serious. " American wrote on Nov 13, 2008 12:33 PM: " I would have to question the Daily Bee istself for writing such and article. Don't we get enough bad press about crazy racist people up here? Also while I don't agree what so ever with him, he is entitled to do what he wants on his own property. You aren't forced to look at the sign nor are you forced to react to it. Your reactions and anger are what people like him want it draws attention to his cause.. And one more thing, being is that my own political beliefs are in the middle. I find the extreme liberals in this community and their rhetoric just as offensive as this mans opinions or sign..... " Idahodad wrote on Nov 13, 2008 12:24 PM: " Some of the reactions to this story fall in the same absurdity as this fellow's sign. Bad behavior doesn't justify bad behavior. Germana is wrong as well as some of blogs I've read which comment on this story. " Lyle Andrews wrote on Nov 13, 2008 12:06 PM: " The right to speak is not the right to speak hate as one responder wrote. Please keep us informed of the outcome of this individual's vile behavior. At the very least he should be fined for being a disorderly person. If the Dept. of Homeland Security were to take him in for questioning that lasts 25 years, that would be justice. Peace. " Zaroc Stone wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:59 AM: " This man is another right wing poor excuse of an American. He should be deported and I'm sure there are countries who would like to have him. No? IF he has to stay in my country, he should be fined enough to lose his property or take down his sign. Social Security would be glad to have the money. Dr. Zaroc Stone. " Dorothy Thompson wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:57 AM: " This man is something I can't say on a public forum. He might think it's free speech, but it sounds to me like he's three nuggets short of a Happy Meal. How about we lynch HIM? " former resident wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:53 AM: " I hope he gets arrested. What an absolute crazy person. Take him away! That is a threat if I ever heard one. What a total jerk! " Death wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:49 AM: " Wow- The family tree for this one is a straight line that doubles back on itself from time to time. " Zorro wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:45 AM: " This guy is a class A moron, and he is too stupid to even realize it. " Nasty Ted wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:42 AM: " Editors, please track this story and keep us informed. This individual will hopefully experience consequences, ind it is imperitive that the community be informed. Thanks. " Ikonos Binder wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:31 AM: " This is not 'free speech'. It is hate speech intent on causing harm, or inciting others to cause harm. This person of low intellect cannot hide behind the First Amendment on this one. You cannot yell 'fire' in a crowded movie theater, and you cannot advocate for the lynching of public figures. Good luck with the Secret Service when they pay you a visit, Mr. Germana, they take a very dim view of fools like you. " Nasty Ted wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:08 AM: " When will a__holes like this guy fiinally be proced out of here. I hear that the suicide rate in Montana is the highest in the country. Maybe this looser should move there. And when will guys like this, as well as all republicans, take responsibility for the fact that our country is in this mess because of their use of fear and abuse of power over the people. This is no time for this kind of divisivness. It is ironic how the conservative white male loosers out there have the most to loose with republicans in office. Good luck Secret Service. Bury this guy! " Ron Mende wrote on Nov 13, 2008 10:39 AM: " This is the type of people that have caused what we have now in our country. This is the 21st century, and there is no time for racism or hatred. Mr. Germana, you should be ashamed. Can Idaho get away from people that think like this. This is an embarassment to our comunity. " POST YOUR OPINION
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Bonner County Daily Bee
P.O. Box 159 / Sandpoint, Idaho 83864 / 208-263-9534
Bonner County Daily Bee Online is updated at 10am PST.
Liberty Hops wrote on Apr 4, 2009 3:43 AM:
You are a GODDAMN STUPID MORON! Barack Obama didn't "Purchase a position" he won by A MAJORITY, you REALLY ARE an IDIOT, aern't you?
And to you AND "Coltsfan". You say Ken Germana has his supporters? I ACTUALLY AGREE with you on that one, because STUPID PEOPLE often admire other STUPID PEOPLE, and support them when they do STUPID THINGS!
And since YOU (Coltsfan), ARE STUPID, and Ken German IS STUPID, it only goes with reason that you admire him like the daddy you NEVER had! "