Recognizing people who care

By Bob McClellan 

              Here's a short story that just unfolded in my life.  It reminded me of the important Mission Valley balance between the larger outside businesses and our own locally owned and operated businesses.   I suppose I'm more aware of this now because of Polson's present growth and sprawl with large firms. 

              On Tuesday, March 31, I had an appointment in Kalispell.  Because of my compromised eyesight, a friend drove me up and back.  On the way home at night we hit a deer near Lakeside with the  '94 Jeep Cherokee.  It totally wiped out the deer; instant death.  The Jeep was ok to dive on home to Polson. 

              The next day I checked with David Young, owner of Polson's All Star Auto and familiar with the Jeep, who referred me to another small business, Polson Paint and Body, owned by David McDaniel.  The necessary body work was very professionally and economically repaired on the Jeep.

              To my delight, I saw 15 year old Carson McDaniel, Dave's son, the young golfing champ we've been watching on the links since age 5.  It just brought that warm feeling of personal connections with a local family business.   Some of these local businesses have opened recently, some have been here for years.  Local communities, local families and local businesses, all contributing to the economic, social and attracting character of the Mission Valley. 

              All this was due to the accident with one deer and through the experience the reminder, once again, of the importance of maintaining the character of our communities despite what sometimes looks like an invasion of  'big money' interests.  Point being, while all business growth is good, it is important to keep a healthy balance in our valley communities between the larger outside businesses and our own locally owned and operated businesses. 

              For me, out of what could have been chaotic damage and danger of an accident, came this opportunity of once again experience the local warmth of caring and capable people with a real investment in our community life together.  And this exists throughout our Flathead valley.     

Bob McClellan