Letters to the editor, Sept. 2
Ronan library thanks
Ronan City Library thanks the caring community members who help keep the library providing quality services.
We would like to extend a special thank you to the Ronan High School graduating class of 2010 for donating the remainder of their activity fund to the library. We would also like to thank the Lower Flathead Valley Community Foundation for supporting our 2010 Summer Reading Program. Without their support, the program would not exist.
A big thank you also goes to all the local businesses and community members who donated prizes to help make the Summer Reading Program a huge success. We truly appreciate the community support we received.
Ronan City library
Big Arm Association receives grant
The Big Arm Association thanks the Greater Polson Community Foundation for awarding us a matching grant of $825 towards educational history exhibits. These new exhibits depict life in Big Arm starting with the homesteading days and were unveiled to the general public on July 24 at Big Arm's 100 Year Birthday Bash held at the historic school.
The "Bash" not only commemorated our history but also raised funds to help restore the historic one room schoolhouse. We also thank the local businesses, the hard working volunteers and everyone who attended as their support will enable the once abandoned building to be turned into a vibrant community center and local museum for all to enjoy. We have purchased the wood and the paint and this week volunteers will begin replacing the siding on the south side.This past weekend, the Association held their Second Annual Ice Cream Social at the school which was another opportunity for the community to enjoy the historic photograph displays. We thank the Cove Deli and the Roberts family for providing the delicious ice cream. Thank you to the volunteers and everyone who attended and a very special thank you to everyone who donated to the school's restoration fund.
The completion of the interior work will facilitate more opportunities to view the historic school and it's expanding displays of history. Thanks again to the Greater Polson Community Foundation and thanks to the Polson Flathead Historical Museum, the Miracle of America Museum and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes for their ongoing support.
Alison Meslin
Big Arm Association
Ice cream thanks
Though wind and rain eventually cut short the annual Susie Hanson Ice Cream Social at St. Luke Extended Care on Aug. 18, it was fun while it lasted.
We want to express deep appreciation to Ronan Harvest Foods for providing the ice cream; to Joey and Ryan Dresen for providing the music; and, to all of the volunteers and church members who baked the cakes.
The smiles and joy that this event brings to our residents is something that cannot be measured. So, to those who make it happen, a big thank you for what you do.
Wayne Fuchs
St. Luke Community Outreach
Game of politics
Do you remember playing a new game with a friend and they would tell you the rules of the game as you were playing? If their objective was to win, do you think you would be really getting a fair shake? Did it seem there were also two sets of rules?
I believe that is what is happening in Washington politics these days. The difference is there are a clear set of rules in place and it is called the Constitution and we do have the ability to study those rules. Also, the politicians are required to abide by the same rules as us.
Years ago, the people understood the Constitution and our politicians were held in check. In the 1800's, a Frenchman named Alexis de Tocqueville was amazed at how well the American people understood and participated in their role in government. I am happy to see evidence that people are again getting involved in learning the Constitution, but we need numbers before our voices will be heard.
The Constitution was called "The People's Document." It was brief, precise, and easily read. Copies can be obtained many places and you can study online or participate with local groups like Citizens Acting for Liberty, The Flathead Freedom Action Rally group, or Brushfires of Freedom. When there are enough of us who understand these simple rules and speak out, then we can hold the politicians accountable.
Andrew Speer
Polson resident
Endorsement
I am supporting former Polson businessman, Bill Gallagher, for Public Service Commissioner.
Decisions made by the Public Service Commission influence energy policy in Montana, regionally, and nationally, and have a very real impact on Montana families, tax payers, rate payers and employers.
Unlike his opponent, Bill is NOT a career professional politician. He has real world business experience much of it from right here in Lake County. His local career with the Farm Bureau and his former ownership of one of Polson's hotels makes him keenly aware of our agricultural, business and tourism issues. He knows our economy and our people.
As a former County Commissioner, I have had the opportunity to observe his professionalism, character and work ethic. He has both the common sense and empathy for Montana utility rate payers. He is not aligned with any special group or industry and he is best qualified for the job.
The Montana Chamber of Commerce recently endorsed Bill Gallagher for the PSC citing his "strong pro-development positions, opposition to extreme environmental agendas, and reasonable approaches to affordable and plentiful utilities in Montana" as the basis for their support, and I agree!
Bill Gallagher is our man for the Public Service Commission.
Karolin Loendorf
Pablo resident
Dear Senators
It has recently come to my attention that in England, where the economy is at least as sorry as ours, the British government has taken a number of measures in an attempt to help. For instance, politicians with extremely differing points of view are working together; high government officials have accepted a five percent pay cut, given up cars and drivers for work, and opted for commercial flights instead of private ones; government workers have accepted a two-year freeze on pay increases. A new austerity characterizes government spending.
I respectfully request that you do all you can to follow the lead of our neighbors across the Atlantic.
I love my country and know that America can prosper again, especially if our government adopts fiscally responsible policies.
Carol Cummings
Polson resident