Letters to the Editor
Precarious times, important decisions
We are in precarious times and this election is of vital importance to Lake County. We have many important decisions to make. One of these important decisions is who will assume the office of County Commissioner. We feel that Bill Barron is the best choice for this office. Lake County is starting to feel the trickle down effects of the national economy and Bill is the best qualified candidate to help Lake County in the coming years.
Bill is not going to tell you things you want to hear to get your vote. Born and raised in Montana, he is a no-nonsense man. He will tell you with all honesty what he can or cannot do and will work well with the present commissioners to make Lake County a better place to live. He knows the inner workings of Lake County and would assimilate naturally into this position. He is very approachable professionally and personally and will be a constant listener and learner. He knows how large budgets work and he knows how to think outside the box.
Bill Barron’s years as sheriff were some of the best years of law enforcement that Lake County has ever seen and to this day his years as our sheriff are still remembered.
A vote for Barron is a vote for a better Lake County
Larry and Dorothy Ash- craft,
Yellow Bay
Windham will work hard
I’m writing this letter in support of Jeanne Windham for our next Lake County Commissioner.
I think that Jeanne has what it takes to be commissioner for Lake County; she has the back- ground, experience, knowledge and the leadership to be the next county commissioner for the citizens of Lake County. If the people of Lake County want someone who will work hard for them every day no matter what, and is willing to help out the people of Lake County and help the people of Polson, then Jeanne Windham is that person. So elect Jeanne Windham as the next Lake County Commissioner on Nov. 4.
Lynn Delecaris,
St. Ignatius
Responsible Voting
Recently, I was called by a woman trying to get me to vote for a particular presidential candidate. After talking to this person a few minutes, I realized that this year voting is more of a popularity contest than a responsible vote. I explained a few things that her candidate has taken a stand on and this person said “I didn’t know that” several times. She didn’t even know the candidate she was promoting!
What about abortion? Do you know how each of the candidates feels about it?
Does he believe that abortion should be a right to every woman, no matter age or stage of pregnancy (including under age girls without parental consent or knowledge and late term pregnancies where the baby would be viable)? In a question on a young girl who had an abortion, what if there is an infection, do the parents and family doctor have a right to know in order provide proper medical attention? Or does the young girl die in order to protect her privacy and is she given that choice or the seriousness?
What about a woman that is eight months pregnant with a baby that is viable and healthy? What does each candidate feel about an abortion for her? What if the baby is born alive? Should the baby be left to die? What does each of the candidates say about that?
What about marriage being defined as being between one man and one woman? How does each of the candidates feel about that?
War in Iraq? Health Insurance? What does the candidates say?
Is it affordable and feasible?
Or is it a dream? Why does he believe like he does?
Wall Street mess? It’s not a finacial problem … it’s a GREED problem!
I know there are many other issues in today’s world. Get familiar with them and what each of the candidates stand for. One of the candidates talks about change. Sometimes change is good … Sometimes it’s not good.
No matter which candidate wins in the election, change will happen … it always does with any new president, along with changes in congress. The question is, which change do you want?
Campaign promises …. GET REAL! Can any candidate keep the promises he makes? If so, who is going to pay for his programs? A candidate has no obligation to keep the so-called promises, nor can he keep them without congress standing behind him. And his “good” program will probably be added to and re-written so many time that the original program isn’t even close to bill that passes through congress.
Voting is more than “He has a nice smile,” “I like to listen to him talk,” or “He’s so sexy.” I’ve heard these statements about one of the candidates.
“I’m so in love with him” was said by a middle age woman in Missoula!
Voting is more than a popularity contest. It’s a responsibility! Know your issues!
PS: Most of what is said here could also said about the governor race, senator race, and any other race there is.
Bea Eder, St. Ignatius
Taylor demonstrates values
This letter is written to urge the re-election of Janna Taylor to House District 11. She has represented our district with vigor and integrity and consistently demonstrates the values of the majority of the citizens in our area. Her continued service to our district and state is needed.
Jack Cummings, Polson
Fiscally responsible officials needed
We desperately need elected officials who are fiscally responsible. Incumbent state representative, Janna Taylor, has a proven record of conscientous spending of your tax dollars.
She has served on key committees dealing with the state budgetary spending and takes that responsibility very seriously. We need to keep her as a watch dog of our taxes!
Janna has done a superb job of keeping us informed of activities in the state legislature with her weekly newspaper reports. Have you noticed that she always includes her address, phone number and e-mail address so that you can communicate with her?
Taylor has earned your vote! She will continue to represent you and what is best for Montana!
Mimi and Irv Milheim, Dayton
Do I Have This Correct?
America, a republic, puts her trust in God.
And we hold that all men are created as equal.
And yet we do not have to be treated as equal.
And we are committed to loving our neighbor as long as we choose our neighbor.
And all life is sacred, except when we decide that some lives are more sacred.
And liberty and justice for all seems to depend on who we wish to include.
And the definition of torture depends on who is in charge.
And our belief in freedom of speech holds except when one is critical of our country?
And we believe that government should stay out of our lives and yet clamor for more benefits.
And…
One would be inclined to believe that something is not working?
Adell Hansen, Polson
Don’t Forget November 4th
Well it is almost time for the general election. Do you have your sample ballots filled out? I just wanted to let you know that you do not have to vote for the lesser of two evils. Yep, you do have other choices, there are candidates running for President in the Independent party- Ralph Nader, Libertarian- Bob Barr, Constitution- Ron Paul, and there is a write-in spot.
The last time I checked I thought the U.S.A. was the country of freedom and opportunity, why is it all we get pushed in our faces are Democrats and Republicans. We have other candidates running for the most prestigious position in our country and they can’t even participate in the debates.
Who made the rule we could only hear from Republicans and Democrats? I was involved in politics the past year campaigning for Ron Paul. The Montana Republican party wanted to have a caucus, the people voting in it did not pick McCain, so why is it the Republican party chose McCain? What good was the caucus? All this voting here, there, everywhere, the vote should always be by all the people not the parties. You also have Stan Jones running for Governor and he also was not in all the debates, one I think. It would really be nice to get someone in the White House that cares about the American people. So when you go to the polls on Nov. 4th choose someone that will run their position by the State Constitution and the Constitution of the United States.
If you have never read the Constitutions you should. And now in closing it would be nice if the results from Nov. 4 are given on Nov. 5. When results are given from other states it sways people’s votes, they think they are winning might as well vote for them. So everyone get out there and vote, and vote by your heart and conscience.
Kelly Bailey, Polson
Pocketbook issues
I am a retired business owner who strongly believes in the tenets of the old Republican Party; however, I was very disturbed at the lack of cooperation and infighting between our Republican and Democratic legislators last session. My concerns this year are the pocketbook issues - cost of living, loss of income on pensions, investments, Investment Board losses on teacher retirements, government employee retirements, and the rapid price increases on groceries, gas, insurance and medical expenses. Our state legislature was so divided last session that progress was impeded due to the lack of civility and listening to one another. This prevented work from getting finished during the regular session and at great cost to the taxpayers, an extra session was called. I do not like those unnecessary expenses.
We need coalition builders in Helena for the 2009 legislative session, not a bunch or partisan politicians. Pat Estenson is just such a builder. He is a man of integrity and ability — an excellent listener with moderate Montana values who will put the interest of his constituents in the forefront of his decision making. He will listen to everybody — regardless of party affiliation — and work hard to represent us fairly, honestly and with cooperation. Let’s elect Pat Estenson as our Representative from House District No. 11.
Ed Mitch
Windham promotes public safety
For nearly 12 years I have had the honor of being part of the Public Health team that worked 24/7 to protect the health of you, the public.
In July, I moved on to another set of challenges, working for the Missoula City-County Health Department. At the time of my departure from the Lake County Health Department, I was one of 16 wonderful employees who embodied the very essence of public service, and were truly passionate about promoting and protecting the health of the entire community.
One of the best kept secrets about our public health department is that of the sixteen employees, more than twelve of them were hired entirely under "alternative sources of funding." That means that our paychecks came not from the Lake County taxes, but from grants and contracts secured by the health department employees who then carry out the terms of those grants or contracts.
What other department in the Lake County system gives you 12 of their 16 dedicated employees at no cost to the county? Such a bargain!
I mention this because Jeanne Windham promotes this very concept. Jeanne regularly promotes the need for improved public safety while seeking alternative funding sources to address those needs. She attended many of the county departments' budget hearings to learn first hand just how handicapped many county functions are because of budget constraints. Through research, she has identified many grants and alternative funding sources that are available for those who wish to apply.
If the Health Department can finance two thirds of its work with funding from outside the county budget, imagine what can be accomplished in the area of road safety, education, solid waste, law enforcement and environmental health!
Lake County and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are in the relatively unique position of having a long history of close cooperation in such areas as Disaster and Emergency Services and Public Health response. Again, Jeanne Windham is aware of the fact that funding is more readily available to communities such as ours who are willing to collaborate on projects than to applicants who try to stand alone.
For those of you who did not know that two thirds of the Lake County Health Department was funded entirely by sources outside the county coffers, and were unaware of Jeanne Windham's energetic support of such an approach to enhancing public safety and public services, please consider voting for her next Tuesday for Lake County Commissioner.
Jeanne is a very motivated and innovative visionary who sees such potential in the future of the Lake County and Flathead Reservation communities. Please support her vision for our communities with your vote next Tuesday.
Brigid O'Connor, Charlo
Achieving balance
The Constitution of the United States does not specify either capitalism or socialism as an economic system for this country. It seems to me the people of the United States prefer a balance between social programs, i.e. social security, health care, roads, military, and free-market enterprise. Historically, I believe Democrats have provided a better balance between the two systems and in recent times have shown a hell of a lot more fiscal responsibility than Republicans. From Barack Obama, to Monica Lindeen, to John Fleming, I urge people to vote Democrat. Good people, positive attitudes.
Kirwin Werner, Ronan
Libraries promote pride
Libraries are a vital part of any community because they are a source of community pride and identity. Healthy libraries communicate a priority of the community that is central to the overall well being of the community.
A library grants each of us access to a wide variety of books, periodicals, newspapers and computer availability with Internet connection.
Our tax dollars and gifts support this "never-failing well spring in the desert", our library. Consequently, libraries fulfill a basic premise of equal opportunity for each of its citizens without regard for one's financial ability.
In this general election, we will have the opportunity to create a library district that will enhance present library services and will also establish a more equitable and sustainable system of funding for our library. About 39 percent of city residents and 61 percent of out-of-city residents are registered borrowers from the Polson City Library.
Presently the Polson City Library receives about 53 percent of its income from city taxes, 7 percent from the county and a small amount from the state. Thus, the city support of the library is over seven times greater than the county funding and yet usage is greater by out-of-city users by about 4 to 3. This seeming inequity and an unfair burden on city residents will be corrected with a levy on all parties within the library district.
Currently, more than one third of the needed income is received through gifts, grants and memorials. These sources of funds support the acquisition of books, CDs, DVDs, periodicals, special programs, etc. The Polson City Library is a community resource that cannot be allowed to be dependent on the uncertainty of a source of funding. A sustainable form of funding will be provided through a library district that will guard against the loss of capacity to purchase necessary materials.
On behalf of the NLCLD Steering Committee, I encourage you to vote in favor of the proposition to create the library district. The Polson City Library is an exceptional library that is well governed and managed with a commitment to excellence. We are at a juncture whereby we can provide an even better future for our children and grandchildren. We cannot afford to do otherwise.
Thank you for your support.
Jake Block, Polson
Estenson cares
Lake County voters have the opportunity to elect a representative who will address the needs of the residents of House District 11. Pat Estenson has been walking the area, knocking on doors and listening to the people of Lake County for the past three months. He cares about what you think and will represent your interest. Pat has experience working with the legislature from 1973 through 1998 on issues dealing with state personnel matters and the needs of Montana Veterans. He knows firsthand and cares about the brave men and women who are fighting for our country. His son is a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy and Pat was administrator of the Columbia Falls Veterans Home for 19 years. Pat's wife has spent her career in the education field serving as a teacher and an administrator. Believe me, Pat knows firsthand the issues that are important in education and health care. Pat retired to our area in 2000 and has become active in many of our local charities. Pat's opponent has been praised for keeping Lake County informed about what Helena thinks is good for us. That is a good thing and I read that column when it appears, but communication is a two way street and it is equally or more important for you to keep your representative informed about what is going on and how those bills affect the people of Lake County. Pat Estenson feels government should come from Lake County and go to Helena and not the other way around; Pat Estenson will listen and care about the issues you care about. Please give Pat a chance to represent you in House District 11.
Pat DeVries, Polson
Thank you from Extension Office
The MSU Flathead Reservation Extension Office would like to thank those who supported and participated in the Annual Producer's Meeting on Oct. 17! We would like to offer special thanks to the generous sponsors who contributed to the event.
Thank you,
Rene Kittle and Anna Dupuis, MSU Flathead Reservation Extension Office
Educaton for all
I would like to inform the electorate about a state race that should be a concern to all parents and taxpayers. That position would be the Superintendent of Public Instruction, (OPI, Office of Public Instruction). I have studied the candidates and am throwing my support to Elaine Sollie Herman. She is the candidate who stands above the others.
Elaine's opponent has narrow experience, while Elaine has experience in teaching, running her own business, financial advisor, a mother & parent. Elaine also can relate to parents who have children with disabilities. She raised one. Because of the challenges she incurred with her daughter, Elaine is open to other options to educate children.
Since she has ran her own business amd with the present economy, there are going to be some lean times in the future and with Elaine running the office, I am confident she will be able to stretch every taxpayer's dollar to not only educate the children with the best materials, but also at the same time use the taxpayer's dollars wisely in the process. In other words, getting the biggest bang out of your buck!
Elaine's philosophy is that she will be supportive of "Education for ALL Students", as her opponent is NOT! Please make your vote count by checking Elaine as the best candidate on your ballot. Elect Elaine!
Becky Stockton
Museum thanks PHS Alumni
The Board of the Polson Flathead Historical Museum was so surprised to receive a gift of over $600 from the Polson High School classes of 1950 through 1959. Elliot Johnson and Jim Duford facilitated the transfer of this money previously raised for class reunions. The museum has created a new and larger display for Polson graduates to enjoy, including class pictures, band uniforms, photos and trophies of sports from the 1920's on, plus yearbooks.
This gift is especially appreciated at this time because we are just beginning a capital campaign to finish the interior of the museum. The first section we plan to complete next spring will include a Rendezvous Room, a place for community groups to gather including Polson Class Reunions! Thanks for helping us move towards that goal.
Lois Hart, President of the Polson Flathead Historical Museum
Thank you to veterans
This letter conveys a big "Thank You" to the veterans in Lake County who purchased 531 "Veteran" license plates this year!
"Veteran" license plates cost $10 and the entire amount is used to fund the State of Montana's three veteran's cemeteries - located at Fort Harrison (near Helena), Miles City and Missoula.
All are operated and maintained to National Shrine Standards - the same standards as Arlington National Cemetery - and Veteran plate sales is the only state money we received to keep this program funded.
Please consider the Veteran plate upon your next renewal - just show the clerk a copy of your honorable discharge. For any further information please call 324-3740.
Joe Foster, Montana Veterans Affairs Division
Words of wisdom
During this political season, let's be reminded of these wise words.
You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
You cannot bring about the prosperity by discouraging thrift.
You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the wage payer down.
You cannot build character and courage by taking away men's initiative and independence.
You cannot help men permanently by doing for them what they could and should do for themselves.
-Abraham Lincoln
Bill Ingram, Polson