Rough Day for the French Prez!

[Chris Exley]

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/20137506/

Sounds like the paparazzi were in full force.

[Winnipesaukee]

What a picture!!!!

[ITD]

Whoa, this guy is going to be followed by throngs of these parasites now, wrong reaction, he just needs a GF boat like Bush in Maine.

[kjbathe]

Originally Posted by Winnipesaukee

What a picture!!!!

Does the guy at the helm have his NASBLA-approved boating cert?

[dmjr]

Well....After reading everything about the incident with the reporters, I have a few thoughts about this subject.

I feel that the press has gone overboard with this. I feel that the French President had every right to get upset. He came here to be on vacation. I know if I went on vacation and I was followed as much as he has been, I would be very upset if someone was following me everywhere.

I hope this incident does not deter any other high profile visits to the Winnipesaukee Area.

[jetskier]

Hi all,

I may represent the minority view on this one...maybe. First, I agree that the French President has every right to come here and enjoy his vacation. That is what the rest of us want to do as well. However, when a high profile person such as this comes here, there is the unavoidable disruption to everyone else. Boating restrictions...security issues... I don't think that he is concerned about local disruption, so why should I be concerned about his issues with the press? Just my 2 cents.

Jetskier

[wildwoodfam]

Originally Posted by jetskier

Hi all,

I may represent the minority view on this one...maybe. First, I agree that the French President has every right to come here and enjoy his vacation. That is what the rest of us want to do as well. However, when a high profile person such as this comes here, there is the unavoidable disruption to everyone else. Boating restrictions...security issues... I don't think that he is concerned about local disruption, so why should I be concerned about his issues with the press? Just my 2 cents.

Jetskier

Did you ask him?

I think the quick rush to judge his profile persons is that they could care less about the "little guy." In many cases this could not be further from the truth. Having worked around many high profile families I will say that while some could careless about whether your traffic congestion grows while they are in town, the vast majority go through a lot of hoops, at their own expense to prevent such issues. While the fact remains that this visit has caused minor disruptions in daily life - the international spotlight on this TOURIST DRIVE place will undoubtedly do wonders - especially if the French Prez returns home with thumbs up reviews for Wolfeboro!

Regardless - I think he had every right to do what he did to the media jokers yesterday - good for him for exercising his right to express himself and to defend his privacy - and yes - just because he is high profile does not exempt him from private moments.

It was inevitable - for sure - the papa's were bound to cause a stir - but lets remember - it was the press/media who caused the stir and not the president!

Just my two cents.

[The Worm]

Let me get this straight, Sarkozy has the right to come along someone's boat, JUMP ABOARD(!), start screaming at them and grab their personal property, only because he didn't like having his picture taken? Wow where have I been. Could you imagine what would have happened if someone approached the Presidential boat and jumped aboard?

[Puck]

I wasn't there and I don't know if he "jumped" aboard or "climbed" aboard, "yelled", "screamed", or just "raised his voice" but the one thing that does seem certain is that he went over and addressed it himself and didn't just send a security detail over to deal with them. I can respect that.

[dmjr]

I think the bottom line to this whole situation is that the press should have had more respect and given him privacy during his vacation time.

[Resident 2B]

Sarkozy had a meeting with the press earlier in the day, answered all questions in English when asked in English, and then asked the press for consideration of his privacy while he was on vacation with his family. A few hours later these press jerks cross the line and start taking pictures.

Although he should not have boarded their boat, I for one think he did everything "right" up front. He had the meeting with the press, he answered their questions, he asked for privacy. These two photographers did not respect his wishes which I feel is unfair to Sarkozy.


R2B

[kjbathe]

There has to be some give and take here, by everyone. He's a foreign head of state, a celebrity in some respects, an official requiring security in other respects. The press/media/photographers have a job to do as well, people are intrigued by the notion of "someone important" being about, and everyone will be impacted in some small or perceived large ways while he's in town. But I think we would all do well to quickly develop the "fatigue" that seems to be all the rage as of late.

I can appreciate not wanting to be hassled while on vacation with my family. After all, don't we typically take vacation to get away from those hassles? In my reading of the accounts he addressed the press earlier in the day, asked that they not take photos during his stay, the guys on the boat didn't get that message, but once they did they appear to have been quite understanding. And to Puck's point, I guess he deserves a measure of respect for confronting the photographers on his own -- kind of gutsy. We could use more of that from our French "allies".

But all this being said and done, he's just another guy with a family taking a break from his job. I can think of nothing better than him wrapping up the remainder of his peaceful visit and remarking, "We had a wonderful time here. This is really a great place to be on holiday."

And then everyone wins.

[SteveA]

Originally Posted by kjbathe

But all this being said and done, he's just another guy with a family taking a break from his job. I can think of nothing better than him wrapping up the remainder of his peaceful visit and remarking, "We had a wonderful time here. This is really a great place to be on holiday."

And then everyone wins.

Well said!

[Grant]

Originally Posted by kjbathe

Does the guy at the helm have his NASBLA-approved boating cert?

I think this is a very valid question -- after all, we all need one!

[KonaChick]

He is the president of France after all. I'm confident if President Bush went over to France to vacation at a lakeside retreat there would be photograhpers from either the news or papparazi trying to take his picture. Yes we all want to get away from hassles in our daily lives when we come up to the lake for vacation but inevitably they creep into our "Winnie" lives too..traffic, the guy next door parying till 2 am, long wait times for tables at restaurants, capt. bonehead...the list goes on and on. My point being that everyone has to deal with some sort of hassle no matter where you are or what you're doing. The president of France should be thankful it was only a boat with one photographer and reporter on board and not ten. According to the article they went up to the MP boat and identified themselves and were told it was fine for them to be there. Hopefully the rest of his vacation will go smoothly and he'll have a great time. One last comment, I'm not sure I I'd want Lake Winni to turn into the next "French Riviera".

[Puckster]

"Regardless - I think he had every right to do what he did to the media jokers yesterday - good for him for exercising his right to express himself and to defend his privacy - and yes - just because he is high profile does not exempt him from private moments."

The French people had better hope it takes more than a few photographers taking pictures to get him that worked up. I personally think it was a photo op for the American haters back in his homeland. What else could be better than the French president boarding an Americans boat and cussing them out. A juvenile act on both parts.

IMHO
Puck

[Irrigation Guy]

Gutsy or stupid? How many of you would have taken a picture if you had seen him coming? I think I might have, as it would be nice to show to my family and friends. I've taken pictures of George senior on his boat heading out to go fishing when I was on the water in Kennebunkport fishing also.

What would have happened if he tried to jump on board the wrong boat? Can you say splash? I don't wanna ruin anyones vacation, but if someone tried to jump on my boat for taking a picture, well, I'm not sure what I would have done, but splash is sure a possibility. I think it may have been a defensive reaction.

Hypothetically of coarse.

[JTA]

Maybe France has a different protocol, but in this country an elected official should not react in that way, even if he's President. Not only that, but even the average guy would be considered trespassing if he boarded another's boat. It's really a kind of road rage.

[rander7823]

Whatever happened to objectivly reporting the news so we can make an informed decision. Hey I am not that old but this is just another example of the news media creating stories that don't really need to be done. Not that I am a fan of these people (Britney Spears, Lindsey Lohan etc) but I would like to go back to some unbiased repeorting of the news with the facts and please stopping creating the news. The media is there to report what happened not create a happening to report.

Both parties in this particlaur example deserve cudos though. The French Pres for stading up for himself...providing he didn;t break any laws and the news peeopl for actually accomdating him once they were told what the request had been. To often the media would just keep snapping away.

[Grant]

I can relate. I had a similar run-in just the other day.

I loaded the boat with fishing gear and shoved off @ 5:42 the other morning. No sooner had the bow cleared the front of the boathouse when I saw them -- a Boston Whaler brimming with Papparazzi -- headed in my direction at warp speed with shutters blazing.

I pulled my hat down low, stuck out my gut and slouched -- hoping to throw them off, but to no avail. The 750mm zoom lens tells no lies, and they were onto me.

"Grant! Grant! What's the latest with Lindsay Lohan?!?!?"
"Is it true you are the reason behind the Brangelina split?!?!?"
"Was that Mitt's car leaving your driveway last night? Is it true he's asked you to be his running mate?"
"How's the olive oil-powered SUV coming along?"
"Any comments on that 8 pound largemouth you landed?"
"When's the next movie?"
"How's the book coming along? We heard advanced sales have already trumped ALL the Harry Potters!"
"Has the French president invited you to cook for his family?"

So many questions at such an early hour! And all I wanted to do was throw a jitterbug toward #59 and watch the bronzebacks strike.

Swinging into action, I jammed the throttle toward the floor and headed toward the corner of Black Island for cover. The photo flotilla was hard-pressed to keep pace, and afforded me a moment to devise a plan. I donned the wetsuit, slipped into my BC and pulled on the mask and fins. Killing the engine and dropping anchor, I cast my line and propped the trusty Ugly Stick. Sliding over the port side, I quickly submerged, took a WSW heading and began swimming for the cove. Beneath the surface, I could hear the Paparrazzi Whaler's prop as the vessel rounded the point and closed in on my anchored boat.

The Whaler circled for a few minutes, then left -- the menacing lens weenies obviously frustrated that I'd again foiled their stalking. Laughing maniacally into my regulator, I pictured the puzzled paps scratching their noggins and wondering what had become of their target.

Slowly finning back toward the boat on a reciprocal ENE heading, I came across a cache of Prohibition-era rum bottles previously believed to have been lost off of Rum Point, along with several clay pipes, 200 year-old earthenware, and some rare bottles. Surfacing slowly, I scanned the brightening horizon for any sign of the intrepid shutterbugs. Satisfied that they'd been vanquished, I climbed back on board, toweled off, and began a nice slow retrieval of the jitterbug, which had drifted toward the deep rocks near the black-and-white buoy off the point.

I retrieved the cast, which landed another 8 pounder (imagine that!) decided to practice 'catch and fillet,' and headed home to treat the family to a glorious breakfast of grilled bass topped with a nice habanero corn salsa.

[SteveA]

Burger and a Pierier at Wolfeboro Town Docks Grill 11.25 US$ -- 8.15868 Euro's

1 Week House Rent in Wolfeboro 30,000 US$ -- 21,756.4 Euro's

A Great Story from Grant Priceless!!!

[skisox24]

OK, Jetskier declared the possibility that he represented a minority view. I concur with Jetskier in part, but depart from Jetskier in a very meaningful way.

What have we become in our zealous media-crazed era? What ever happened to dignity? I don't care if you are President of France, a former Playboy bunny who has fallen on hard times, or a baseball legend accused of taking drugs as he is about to shatter an historic record that defines our national pastime. The media coverage in our country has evolved into an electonic exaggeration of People Magazine at the expense of the privacy and dignaty of the victims of the day. While the essence of the story told by the Paparazzi's invasion may indeed be truthful and of interest, when do we draw a boundary line around what a responsible person might consider eligible public information, and contain the lazy tendency to exploit whatever appears to be a vicarious display of the rich and famous. I am offended by the crass products of the type that invaded our Wolfeboro guest's privacy, and am disappointed in the preponderance of this level of "news" reporting that too often appears on our radio, network, and cable outlets. If the "traditional" media doesn't wake up to this reality they may find themselves relegated to the trash heap as emerging internet news sources overtake them.

Sorry of this sounds like a lecture!

[secondcurve]

It is kind of scary that this guy Sarkozy is the head of state of France, a nuclear power. What ever one thinks about a situation like this, it is clear that someone in Sarkozy's position should have some restraint. The good news is it sounds like he won't be back!

[Captain Zipper]

Grant, I loved your post. My condolescenses on to you for having to deal with all those shutterbugs. You shower your humanity all over the lake and that's the thanks you get. God Bless.

[bigpatsfan]

We allowed the president of a foreign country to take possession of one of Lake Winnipesaukee's nicest coves for the next two weeks. However, from what I read in the paper having total and absolute control of this cove is not enough for him he now needs to control the waterways outside of this cove.

Also, his boarding the press boat was just plain stupid and as a leader he should have better control of his emotions.. Two guys in one boat doesn't rise to the level of Papparazzi… By the way, how did he know who and what they were???

Hopefully whatever organization that allowed him to lock me out of this cove will realize their mistake and when the next request to do the same comes accross their desk they will not sign it.

This lake belongs to everyone… lets hope we do not see any other instances where we are locked out due to some sort of security concerns..

[jetskier]

Hi all,

Here is the Citizen link to the incident:

http://www.citizen.com/apps/pbcs.dll...023/-1/CITIZEN

The thought occurs to me that this is a completely public place outside of the security area. Anyone is within their rights to boat there and taking pictures is not against the law. Now jumping on someone's boat is ill advised and might be less than legal.

The last time I was in Paris, the farmers were blocking the road with tractors to protest government subsidies. Maybe I should have jumped onto their tractors and yelled at them. Yup....that would have worked! Oh yes, Air France was 8 hours late. Maybe, I should have jumped the ticket counter and yelled at the attendant. I know that one would have worked.

I am not condoning the photographers, but this is not a guy I would like to see in a critical situation. Can you imagine the uproar if he was hurt jumping into someone's boat? We might have France declare war on us. Then they would come over and block our roads.

Seriously, this guy is a bonehead....and yes, I don't like having celebrities disrupt the area during everyone's vacation. That is just plain rude.

Just my opinion and I am sticking to it

Oh, by the way. Sorry about all the questions Grant but Britney would not stay long enough to photograph and we need the story. Deadlines you know!

Jetskier

[dmjr]

Seriously, this guy is a bonehead....and yes, I don't like having celebrities disrupt the area during everyone's vacation. That is just plain rude.

Just my opinion and I am sticking to it

Wow, I feel different about celebrities coming to the area. I think the more the better. It promotes good publicity for the area.

[GWC...]

Nice Boat...

[



Oui, Oui...

[WakeUp]

I'm baffled that there are people who actually feels what Pres. Sarkozy did was acceptable. FIRST: Under ANY circumstances, it is incorrect for anyone to board another boat without permission. It also breaks maritime law. Even the Marine Patrol needs to "ask permission" before boarding a boat. I know I'll hear the argument: "he's from a foreign country...he can't be expected to know our protocol..." I doesn't matter...IT IS OUR COUNTRY!! Yes, at the morning press conference President Sarkozy did ask for privacy....but if you listen to the accounts of the press conference, it was stated in French. SECOND: The press has ALL THE RIGHT in the world to cover this story as they did. If President Sarkozy didn't understand the American press, why would he have to make a statement asking for privacy?

Could you imagine if President Bush acted this way while vacationing in France?!?! (but you never will...this type of behavior isn't in the Bush fabric.)

I'm impressed with President Sarkozy coming to America to vacation. He is sending a clear political message that he is a 'friend to the Americans.' This is good news in the future. (although I'm sure many French people aren't happy)

[gravy boat]

Two cents: Celebrity has its privileges. It also has its challenges. If you choose to live your life in the spotlight, be prepared for unwelcomed media attention. Celebrities and politicians seem to think they should control when and where the photo opps happen.
If you don't like the spotlight then give up the high pay and perks and get a 9 to 5 job. Unemployment is low these days.

And don't get me started on the whiny celebrity brats in and out of rehab!

[ITD]

I think we need to cut this guy a break. He's new at the job and will make some mistakes. His problem is he needs to learn to delegate, I'm sure one of the many security people who were with him would have gladly told the photographer to buzz off if asked. This guy actually seems pro America, not like the last moron. Time will tell.

As far as closing off the cove, that's what comes when people like this visit. Part of the danger of publicizing Lake Winni. Reminds me of the Eagles song, The Last Resort:

"They call it paradise, I don't know why. You call someplace paradise kiss it goodbye---aye-aye-aye."

I love that album.

[Coolbreeze]

Grant, great post.

[jetskier]

Originally Posted by dmjr

Seriously, this guy is a bonehead....and yes, I don't like having celebrities disrupt the area during everyone's vacation. That is just plain rude.

Just my opinion and I am sticking to it

Wow, I feel different about celebrities coming to the area. I think the more the better. It promotes good publicity for the area.

I have absolutely no issue with celebrities that come and blend in. We have quite a number that vacation here just like the rest of us. That does create good will and publicity. However, this bonehead represents a faction that I can do without. He is disruptive and that is what irks me.

His behavior is questionable at best and he is not acting like a head of government. In terms of cutting him some slack...he took the job and perks and needs to play the role. I don't see him ingratiating himself in any fashion here. It cuts both ways.

Jetskier

[rander7823]

I think there is a rather large difference between Mel Gibson and the Prez of France and security around them

[wildwoodfam]

I see absolutely nothing wrong with the French Prez doing what he did...for this very reason. it was not the boat of a family out cruising on the lake catching some rays - behaving themselves and not looking for trouble. The boat in question was a Press Boat - with AP reporters and photographers on board - it was a marked boat and they were directly ignoring the request the Prex made just hours before about some privacy while he and friends went boating on the lake. He also spoke in English at the press conference - not his native language - and answered questions posed in English (to a French President!)

I'm sorry folks - he is here ON VACATION - not for a political meeting, not for a summit, VACATION - and has every right to be left alone and to enjoy his time here - and if you want the Lakes Region to get a good grades on its celeb vacation report card - we ought to be protecting his right to a quiet vacation!

My two cents - and let's think for a minute - about the press - "the Paparazi" - dont they seem to create more in the way of negative situations than they report on the positives - and why is it they feel priviledged to do so? I wonder - if the Princess of Wales had stopped her car and confronted her photographers on that fateful night - perhaps she'd still be with us....we will never know...but this I know - the president most likely had a LOVELY and undisturbed boat ride after he backed off the press!!

[KonaChick]

Originally Posted by wildwoodfam

I see absolutely nothing wrong with the French Prez doing what he did...for this very reason. it was not the boat of a family out cruising on the lake catching some rays - behaving themselves and not looking for trouble. The boat in question was a Press Boat - with AP reporters and photographers on board - it was a marked boat and they were directly ignoring the request the Prex made just hours before about some privacy while he and friends went boating on the lake. He also spoke in English at the press conference - not his native language - and answered questions posed in English (to a French President!)

I'm sorry folks - he is here ON VACATION - not for a political meeting, not for a summit, VACATION - and has every right to be left alone and to enjoy his time here - and if you want the Lakes Region to get a good grades on its celeb vacation report card - we ought to be protecting his right to a quiet vacation!

My two cents - and let's think for a minute - about the press - "the Paparazi" - dont they seem to create more in the way of negative situations than they report on the positives - and why is it they feel priviledged to do so? I wonder - if the Princess of Wales had stopped her car and confronted her photographers on that fateful night - perhaps she'd still be with us....we will never know...but this I know - the president most likely had a LOVELY and undisturbed boat ride after he backed off the press!!

I respectfully ask all the looky lou's who come into my cove to stare at me and my family while we are relaxing at our Winnie Mcmansion to please leave us alone..we have every right to be left alone...you should see what we pay in waterfront taxes...you should see the total sum of what we've paid in waterfront taxes for the last 7 years. We spend lots of money out in restaurants when we're up. We frequent local markets and local tourist attractions. We buy gas, pay our electric and oil bills on time. Our theory is it's our responsibility to help keep the local economy afloat and we take this responsibility seriously. Don't WE deserve a little peace and quiet from prying eyes?!?!? We've even seen people taking pictures on several different occassions. Forget about Prez French Fry going back to give his subjects a positive report on Lake Winnipesaukee..I'm here to tell you it's horrible! Don't come here!! Stay home!!! Go to Lake George instead!!!! Oh and one last thing..I think it was excessive speed that killed Princess Di, not the paparazzi. The driver had a choice that night to either drive safely or speed away like an idiot...the worst that could have happened if he drove safely and at reasonable speeds was that the paparazi (how do you spell that anyway?) would have gotten some pictures of her and Dodi. Pretty small price to pay for your life if you ask me. Toodles!!

[The Worm]

I don't think anyone is supporting the press or the Paparazzi for their obnoxious invasion of privacy. Most would agree that these idiots are rude, inconsiderate, sensationalizing buffoons that give all forms of media a bad reputation. However, I do believe that the majority feel that "Napoleon" Sarkozy is an out of control idiot that should have considered his position as the leader of a powerful nation before he had a childish temper tantrum on the world stage. He has no justification for his outlandish behavior in jumping aboard this or any boat, and frankly I'm stunned that his security team, or secret service, even allowed him to do this. Sarkozy came to the US for a vacation and a little R&R, that's true... and a couple of clowns took his picture after he asked them not to, is that really worth all of the negativity he has created through his own actions? At least nobody burned his Nation's Flag or an effigy of him, which you know would absolutely happen if the President of the USA went to France.

[Alton Bay]

The photographer taking the pictures is hardly paparrazi! He is an AP photographer and well respected. We have all enjoyed his wonderful pictures in NH papers for years. He is an avid fisherman and has spent years on this lake and was playing by the rules by going through MP for the chance to be near the Appe house. Please stop calling him names. He's a great guy who takes great pictures.

[wildwoodfam]

Originally Posted by Alton Bay

The photographer taking the pictures is hardly paparrazi! He is an AP photographer and well respected. We have all enjoyed his wonderful pictures in NH papers for years. He is an avid fisherman and has spent years on this lake and was playing by the rules by going through MP for the chance to be near the Appe house. Please stop calling him names. He's a great guy who takes great pictures.

Paparazzi is a plural term (paparazzo being the singular form[1][2]) for photographers who take candid photographs of celebrities, usually by relentlessly shadowing them in their public and private activities. Celebrities claiming to have been hounded by such photographers often use "paparazzi" as a pejorative term[3] while news agencies commonly use the word in a broader sense to describe all photographers who take pictures of people of note.

I was not questioning the personal character of the photographer - nor have I nor has anyone in this thread called him names. He acted like a member of the paparazzi - trying to get the best pic of the French Prez on vacation - he cannot hide behind the AP - not when it comes to taking pics of the bathing suit clad French Prez boating whilst on vacation. Sorry, it doesnt wash with me.

As for you KC - I'll stay out of your cove - if you stay away from mine!

[Coolbreeze]

I think it would be funny if the French President hired some local kids with the proper NASBLA certificates and had them continually run their jet skis in circles 150' around the Paparazzis boats. This would surely drive them bonkers after about an hour!

[Alton Bay]

"Most would agree that these idiots are rude, inconsiderate, sensationalizing buffoons that give all forms of media a bad reputation. "
I consider that name calling...
I'm just saying that I don't believe an AP photographer whose photos have graced our newspapers for years deserves to be lumped into the the category of "pa·pa·raz·zo(päp-räts) n. pl. pa·pa·raz·zi (-s)
A freelance photographer who doggedly pursues celebrities to take candid pictures for sale to magazines and newspapers." (Free Online Dictionary)
Jim was not hanging out in a tree somewhere hoping to get a "shot" and he had permission from MP to be there. That being said, since when are the waters of Winnipesaukee restricted to anyone? Remember when Romney had to pull in the swim line? The water "belongs in trust" to the citizens of NH and we are extending a courtesy to the President. I'm glad he's here and hope he has a great time.

[Misty Blue]

I can not imagine how the Secret Service allowed this to happen in the first place! To allow the President of France to actually board an unknown vessel while in a rage is absolutly inexcusable. There was no way of knowing that Mr. Sarkozy wouldn't end up with a boat hook in the face.

Stupid. Just stupid, stupid, stupid.

Misty Blue.

[Irrigation Guy]

Originally Posted by Misty Blue

I can not imagine how the Secret Service allowed this to happen in the first place! To allow the President of France to actually board an unknown vessel while in a rage is absolutly inexcusable. There was no way of knowing that Mr. Sarkozy wouldn't end up with a boat hook in the face.

Stupid. Just stupid, stupid, stupid.

Misty Blue.

I couldn't agree more.

[The Worm]

Alton Bay - This photographer was out there in his boat with his equipment for one reason and one reason only, to take candid pictures of Sarkozy to sell for profit, sound familiar? The fact that he recorded Sarkozy clearly annoyed, pointing and having a melt down is a windfall for your friend. His name and photos are now in hundreds of newspapers worldwide, and have appeared on every television newscast here and abroad. This situation has delivered his 15 minutes of fame beyond his wildest dreams. Please stop portraying him like he's some kind of a victim in all of this.

[Mr. V]

There could be a good explanation for his behavior.

He is reported to be vacationing with "his family," which one assumes includes his second wife.

Hmmmm, was this his wife? "Sarkozy picked up DeWitt’s camera but then put it down. A woman then spoke up in English and relayed Sarkozy’s request to be left alone, DeWitt said. The woman did not identify herself."

If she isn't his wife, it could be he was canoodling with a woman NOT his wife, and got BUSTED.

Not likely, but such brazen behavior by a Frenchman is not unprecedented.

[John A. Birdsall]

When I think of the Prez of France, I think of the lack of support when we invaded Iraq. I also think of the peace talks with Vietnam. I don't think we need France here in NH, or NJ for that matter. I have a paddle in my boat and if he boarded my boat uninvited their might have been use of the paddle for other than pushing water.

I have not much use for the press either as they seemed to stretch stories so that they can sell more papers.

[CanisLupusArctos]

Jim Cole, as an employee of the AP, was assigned to be there. We all have bosses. Jim's boss probably told him to get the best possible pictures of the French Prez vacationing, to get outside the press conference setting. When your boss tells you to do something, and refusing isn't worth risking your job or your career, what do you do? Most people do what the boss wants.

Having met Jim a few times I agree that he's an excellent photographer, an all -around outdoorsman who's a good representative of New Hampshire, and a really nice guy.

Everyone on this forum has said something very true.

1. Yes, news is becoming annoyingly flashy and sensational, thanks to a handful of network executives who've gotten hooked on the money that such a reporting style brings in. When the flashy networks started to steal all the ratings, the executives at the others decided to compete. There have been reporters who've gotten fired for sticking with their morals and refusing to help generate ratings. An ethical journalist must have a good backup plan for his or her personal income.

2. Anyone in a publicly-owned place is fair game for anyone else's pictures (unless a judge has issued a restraining order.) It comes down to this: If you don't like the prospect of appearing in someone's photo, then either adjust your appearance, accept your appearance, or don't go out.

Being photographed is a chance we all take when we go into publicly-owned places, and we are probably all in the family photo albums of total strangers, perhaps even the object of malicious laughter every time they look at the photos!

3. Anyone who boards another person's boat without permission, for the purpose of expressing anger, is guilty of at least one crime. It doesn't matter what the motive was. Even if the reporters started shouting nasty things about his mother, the law still wouldn't make an exception. It doesn't matter if you're from a foreign country, either -- the law still doesn't make an exception. If you break laws in another country, you'll find yourself in trouble with their authorities. On our lake, the French President displayed some serious Capt. Bonehead traits that we've all been complaining about.

Today's kids are growing up thinking that if they become rich or famous they'll be less accountable for their actions. As a result we have a growing number high-school students who are fixated on "self" and "getting ahead." Many of them are not growing out of it, which probably contributes to the Capt. Bonehead problem we have.

As the "Self" fixation becomes bigger in society, people move faster to "Get ahead at all costs" and the news responds by doing whatever it can to grab everyone's attention as they speed by.

I conclude that

A) The news needs to get real and re-focus on things that truly matter. We the viewers are in charge of that.

B) The French President is yet another Capt. Bonehead who needs anger management classes. Maybe he'll be a great President, but as a man he's already made his first-impression on me.

[jetskier]

Originally Posted by CanisLupusArctos

Jim Cole, as an employee of the AP, was assigned to be there...

I think you captured the essence of this one.

Jetskier

[wildwoodfam]

Originally Posted by John A. Birdsall

When I think of the Prez of France, I think of the lack of support when we invaded Iraq. I also think of the peace talks with Vietnam. I don't think we need France here in NH, or NJ for that matter. I have a paddle in my boat and if he boarded my boat uninvited their might have been use of the paddle for other than pushing water.

I have not much use for the press either as they seemed to stretch stories so that they can sell more papers.

a bit further back - to say 1776. Let's not forget it was the French - who helped the colonists in the Revolution, their arrival helped to establish the foothold and turned the tide - thereby enabling this country to defeat and separate itself from Great Britain (ironically our strongest ally today) and to become a free nation.

Just something to think about - I will certainly agree with your statements regarding the French on Vietnam, and more recently Iraq, and agree that in modern times, France has been rather lackluster in its support of anyone or anything really - outside of France.

I do think it neat to have a sitting foreign president vacation about 20 minutes from me!! It is just plain cool! Think about it - starting tomorrow two sitting presidents will be VACATIONING in New England - (Georgie-Porgie is visiting mummy and dahddy at Kennebunkport this weekend!) and two former presidents will also be in New England - George the First @ Walkers Point of course and Bill Clinton - who I heard was going to be on Martha's Vineyard! How's THAT for a shot in the arm for Tourism in New England!!

[Grant]

I vaguely remember, as a kid, my grandfather telling me that Queen Elizabeth (who coulda been Princess Lizzy at the time) once stayed at Bald Peak. Or was it that she was married to a bald peak?

Anyone? Buehler?

Maybe it was Princess Grace (local babe down here in Philadelphia...).

Of course, "back in the day," the photogs were limited to what would be the equivalent of a Brownie Star-Flash and cruddy zooms. But still. Anyone remember?

How about other notables visiting the big puddle? My folks have some pics of Bush Sr. on the Mount. I know that JFK's big brother (Joe, who crashed his plane in WW2) went to Wyanoke around the same time my grandfather was there. My GF's main comment was that Joe Sr. was a rum-runner, and his father-in-law, "Honey Fitz," was a criminal. Discuss amongst yourselves.

And what about bona fide royalty like Stephen Tyler and Adam Sandler? Any encounters? Mike Rowe from "Dirty Jobs"??? Bob Dole?

I, for one, once ran into Vic Nebulous, checking out Ratdog bumper stickers at "Stay Tuned" in Wolfeboro.

Anyone care to see me or raise?

Party on,

g

[chipj29]

I can't see or raise you Grant personally, but maybe my son can.
About 6 years ago (he was around 5 or 6) my son was with my mother in law up at Lake Sunapee. They took the boat over to the ice cream place, where my mother in law recognized Steven Tyler from Aerosmith. My young son of course had no idea who it was. Unfazed, he walked up to him and asked him for an autograph. He told him his Daddy was a big fan. He was very nice and did give him a sig. Now everytime I hear an A-smith song with my son, I tell him who the guy singing is...and he is just like, yeah, whatever Dad. No big deal, right?

[jetskier]

Originally Posted by Grant

I vaguely remember, as a kid, my grandfather telling me that Queen Elizabeth (who coulda been Princess Lizzy at the time) once stayed at Bald Peak. Or was it that she was married to a bald peak?

Anyone? Buehler?

Maybe it was Princess Grace (local babe down here in Philadelphia...).

Of course, "back in the day," the photogs were limited to what would be the equivalent of a Brownie Star-Flash and cruddy zooms. But still. Anyone remember?

How about other notables visiting the big puddle? My folks have some pics of Bush Sr. on the Mount. I know that JFK's big brother (Joe, who crashed his plane in WW2) went to Wyanoke around the same time my grandfather was there. My GF's main comment was that Joe Sr. was a rum-runner, and his father-in-law, "Honey Fitz," was a criminal. Discuss amongst yourselves.

And what about bona fide royalty like Stephen Tyler and Adam Sandler? Any encounters? Mike Rowe from "Dirty Jobs"??? Bob Dole?

I, for one, once ran into Vic Nebulous, checking out Ratdog bumper stickers at "Stay Tuned" in Wolfeboro.

Anyone care to see me or raise?

Party on,

g

Hi Grant,

I have run into a couple of celebrities at the lake. The best story occured about 15 years ago. My brother had a house on Paugus Bay it was mid August. We spent a lot of time jetsking back then which meant standups. I recall taking a run to Long Island and then kicking back in the living room. There was a knock at the door and young boy who was visiting his grandmother asked if we would take him with us the next day. We agreed.

The next morning we went for a rather long ride. Upon our return, we learned that his father was Paul Sorvino and it was his mother that had a house on the lake. Paul had just bought the jetski for his son and wanted to try it, so we brought over a wetsuit and managed to get him into it...he is a large person. Paul took a victory lap around Paugus waving...it was a sight. When he returned, he tried to give us a tip which we refused, of course. I remember my brother telling him that he was in our world now. :-)

A few years later I saw Derek Sanderson jetsking on the lake. He was doing color commentary for the Bruins at that time. Nice guy.

Jetskier

[This'nThat]

Originally Posted by John A. Birdsall

When I think of the Prez of France, I think of the lack of support when we invaded Iraq. I also think of the peace talks with Vietnam. I don't think we need France here in NH, or NJ for that matter..

France, sometimes, is in a world of its own. As an example, here's their attempt to ban foul English words such as "e-mail".

[mcdude]

The President has left the lake....
(Elvis has left the building....)
It seems Sarkosy spent the day over at Walker's Point in Maine having hot dogs and hamburgers (yah, right) with Geroge Sr and Jr, Babs and and Laura. Perfect place to visit....security is already set up! Apparently there were no run-ins with the press.....
...stay posted....

[jetskier]

Originally Posted by mcdude

The President has left the lake....
(Elvis has left the building....)
It seems Sarkosy spent the day over at Walker's Point in Maine having hot dogs and hamburgers (yah, right) with Geroge Sr and Jr, Babs and and Laura. Perfect place to visit....security is already set up! Apparently there were no run-ins with the press.....
...stay posted....

I don't know about you...but I feel so honored that he was here NOT!

Jetskier

[MJM]

Now that he is gone, I plan to try to find the house he rented just out of curiosity.

Can anyone give me specifics? If I am looking at Springfield Point from the water, is it to the left, or to the right, etc.?

Thanks!

[jrc]

It's on the south side of Springfield point in a little cove behind Worcester Island.

Don't anchor in there, it's full of numerous rocks and monster eels, some say there be dragons.

[Mr. V]

(with apologies to The Wizard of Oz)

Huge eels, and big rocks, and frogs, oh my!

[MJM]

Originally Posted by jrc

It's on the south side of Springfield point in a little cove behind Worcester Island.
Don't anchor in there, it's full of numerous rocks and monster eels, some say there be dragons.

Ah.....now I think I know where it is! I once drifted in from the North into that cove between Worcester and Springfield Point, far enough for the bridge to come into view, but the large, visible, not-so-deep rocks scard me right out of there!

[Sunset Bob]

Originally Posted by MJM

Now that he is gone, I plan to try to find the house he rented just out of curiosity.

Can anyone give me specifics? If I am looking at Springfield Point from the water, is it to the left, or to the right, etc.?

Thanks!

See my picture in photo post. http://www.winnipesaukee.com/photopo...=500&ppuser=15

[NHskier]

We went by the cove Saturday around noontime. The two MP boats were anchored just like in Sunset Bob's photo.

NHskier

[dpg]

Who cares??? Move on.

[riverat]

Is that not Romney's abode?

[MJM]

Originally Posted by riverat

Is that not Romney's abode?

It's not Romney's. but now that you mention it, there are similarities, like the house is to the left of the 3-bay boathouse, etc.

[Argie's Wife]

he was still wearing Speedos tho, wasn't he?

[MJM]

There were 3 MP boats anchored there on Friday - is the Prez still around?

[jetskier]

Originally Posted by wildwoodfam

I see absolutely nothing wrong with the French Prez doing what he did...for this very reason. it was not the boat of a family out cruising on the lake catching some rays - behaving themselves and not looking for trouble. The boat in question was a Press Boat - with AP reporters and photographers on board - it was a marked boat and they were directly ignoring the request the Prex made just hours before about some privacy while he and friends went boating on the lake. He also spoke in English at the press conference - not his native language - and answered questions posed in English (to a French President!)

I'm sorry folks - he is here ON VACATION - not for a political meeting, not for a summit, VACATION - and has every right to be left alone and to enjoy his time here - and if you want the Lakes Region to get a good grades on its celeb vacation report card - we ought to be protecting his right to a quiet vacation!

My two cents - and let's think for a minute - about the press - "the Paparazi" - dont they seem to create more in the way of negative situations than they report on the positives - and why is it they feel priviledged to do so? I wonder - if the Princess of Wales had stopped her car and confronted her photographers on that fateful night - perhaps she'd still be with us....we will never know...but this I know - the president most likely had a LOVELY and undisturbed boat ride after he backed off the press!!

If you track back through the thread, you will find that it was a pair of AP photographers. Vacation or not, the lake is public and taking photographs is completely legal. If I jumped on your boat while you were taking a picture of me and threatened you I would expect you to call the police and potentially take legal action. This guy is a complete jerk...vacation somewhere else next time!

Jetskier

[Dave R]

I briefly scanned through the thread and didn't spot any posts similar to what I'm about to write. My apologies if I am repeating someone else's thoughts.

I suspect the whole incident was contrived. It's a perfect way for the new French President to show the world how tough he is. When combined with the obviously politically driven decision to vacation so near Bush's place, it seems to me that a public "tough guy" image would be a plus for this guy's agenda. Successful oliticians are not likely to act on impulse, they plan everything.

[SteveA]

Originally Posted by Dave R

SNIP It's a perfect way for the new French President to show the world how tough he is. When combined with the obviously politically driven decision to vacation so near Bush's place, it seems to me that a public "tough guy" image would be a plus for this guy's agenda. Successful oliticians are not likely to act on impulse, they plan everything.

When I saw the story about the French Prez going to visit the "Bush Boys" in Maine the same exact thought crossed my mind.. he ran as a "conservative" in France and won.

Next thing we'll see is him inviting Dick Cheney up to NH to do a little bird hunting!

But he better be ready to duck!

PS I think you misspelled "oliticians" correct spelling is "oil iticans"

[Dave R]

Originally Posted by SteveA

PS I think you misspelled "oliticians" correct spelling is "oil iticans"

It was an honest mistake, but in hindsight, maybe he left the p in the lake...

[ApS]

Originally Posted by Dave R

"...I suspect the whole incident was contrived. It's a perfect way for the new French President to show the world how tough he is. When combined with the obviously politically driven decision to vacation so near Bush's place, it seems to me that a public "tough guy" image would be a plus for this guy's agenda. Successful oliticians are not likely to act on impulse, they plan everything.

That was my thought too. "Taking action" for the camera, as it were.

Sarkozy was elected indirectly due to a convergence of political needs by both the US and France, and signals a warming of relations.

[GWC...]

Originally Posted by Dave R

It was an honest mistake, but in hindsight, maybe he left the p in the lake...

That should make for some happy fish - wine improves with age, or so I've been told...

[AC2717]

http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/europe....ap/index.html

Has to be because of the Lake

Must have been one of those you go to that lake one more time I am leaving you, as someones footnote states, I am going to miss her.

Oh well what can you do. He must have seen the beauty of the lake and all the beautiful women that go along with Miss Winni

[Winnigirl]

He and his wife just announced their marriage is over and the article I read discussed how she didn't accompany him on his trip to the states. So I am guessing that some of you were right and he didn't want to be photographed with someone else.