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8/20/08 Ramp schedule
explained After the mill levy was passed for upgrades at the fairgrounds in 2006, the Fair Board appointed a committee to assist with the implementation of the construction and repair projects. This committee is well aware of the planning and activities towards getting the work done as identified in the mill levy. Unfortunately, we apparently have not been very good at keeping the community informed of the progress. During our last meeting we became aware of community concerns as to why the new ramp to the grandstand was not completed prior to the summer fair this year. It was the committee and Fair Board’s desire to have it completed in time for the fair, but we did not receive any bids to complete the work in that time frame due to local contractor commitments to other projects. We did receive two bids to complete the work after the fair and the successful bidder is scheduled to commence with this work this month with completion scheduled for November of this year. I do hope this helps with letting the community know what is going on with the ramp. This committee is doing our best to see that the projects are addressing current and long-term goals of the fairgrounds in the most efficient and economical way possible. We will strive harder in keeping the community aware of the remainder of the projects as they move forward towards completion. Eugene Vogl Lewistown
Response
missed the point C’mon up to my street and I will show what I was writing about. And if you want to preach about credibility Jack, you lost it when you made that comment about my using the “C” word in nearly all my letters. Yes, I did use it when I described those two local drunks and what they said when they tried to bully me and my friend. All of your nine points are about a problem that your/my corrupt government is responsible for. The tenth point seems a bit racist, don’t you think? The drugs are here, Montana ranks way above the “C” state for booze related deaths. Do you think it would be any different if Montana bordered Mexico? I am listening, Jack, and I hear that Lewistown has a big problem with bullying. Are you sure that you are not part of the cause? By the way guy, I also mentioned the Fergus County Fair. You got anything good to say about it? Thanks, Jack Behl Lewistown
Statistics
mostly fiction With all due respect to Jack Beddall, his alleged statistics do not come from the L.A. Times and are mostly fiction. #1. Fiction #2. Mostly Truth, but regard the word “mostly” #3. Unproven! #4. Inaccurate #5. Fiction #6. Unproven #7. Unproven #8. Unproven #9. Mostly Truth #10. Inaccurate #11. Fiction #12. Fiction See TruthorFiction.com for verification and comments on these claims. George Macaulay Grass Range, Mont., and Santa Rosa, Calif.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/16/08 Try ‘In
Montana’ 1. 40 percent of all workers in L. A. County (L. A. County has 10.2 million people) are working for cash and not paying taxes. This is because they are predominantly illegal immigrants working without a green card. 2. 95 percent of warrants for murder in Los Angeles are for illegal aliens. 3. 75 percent of people on the most wanted list in Los Angeles are illegal aliens. 4. Over 2/3 of all births in Los Angeles County are to illegal alien Mexicans on Medi-Cal, whose births were paid for by taxpayers. 5. Nearly 35 percent of all inmates in California detention centers are Mexican nationals here illegally. 6. Over 300,000 illegal aliens in Los Angeles County are living in garages. 7. The FBI reports half of all gang members in Los Angeles are most likely illegal aliens from south of the border. 8. Nearly 60 percent of all occupants of HUD properties are illegal. 9. 21 radio stations in L. A. are Spanish speaking. 10. In L. A. County, 5.1 million people speak English, 3.9 million speak Spanish. Speaking for myself only (although I would guess most people share a similar view), I don’t give a whup about anything “in California.” The ironic thing about even using such a phrase is that it implies that we should give credibility to your arguments just because you use it. However, “in California” does not create credibility, it destroys any possibility of it. My question for you, then, is this: have you ever considered for a second that we here in Montana might actually have a few things we could teach you if you would listen? Have you considered how much good you might do “in California” if you went back there and started preaching, “In Montana...?” Jack Beddall Lewistown
Well done, 4-H and students Dear Editor After reading negative letters to the Editor concerning our Fair, prompts me to write praising the excellent school displays and 4-H exhibits. In years past, each school was shoved every which way and you did not get to see each individual project. One year I couldn’t find one whole class. This year the classes and each school were laid out in a very professional manner and you could enjoy every project. The 4-H were the same way. Our 4-H Leaders, local teachers, Superintendent of Schools and youth spend a lot of time on these exhibits. They deserve a thank you and an acknowledgement for a job well done. I hope you do it the same way next year. Thanks to Molly, also, or I doubt we’d have a place to display and view these projects. Betty Wherley Winifred Kim Beckers 2nd grade teacher, Wolf Point Outlook Denise Grewell Teacher, Billings Career Center Joliet P.S. Kim and Denise are my daughters and had high praise for our schools. They love to come home for the Central Montana Fair.Reader requests
Consideration Dear Editor, Readers of the Lewistown News-Argus can help take a stand against a word that has gained popularity in culture, but is offensive to so many. The “R-word” or “retard” has found a place in common language and seems to be accepted by so many. In fact, it is said 16 times in one scene in the film “Tropic Thunder,” which opens in theaters this week. The word hurts, even if it is not directed at a person with intellectual disabilities. For too long, people with intellectual disabilities have had to overcome the challenges society has put forth through stereotypes. It is time for a change and you can help. Help make much needed change, which will bring acceptance and inclusion to our community – don’t say the R-word. When you hear that word, think about Anton Veverka from tiny Richey, Mont., who is currently Special Olympics Montana’s Athlete of the Year. Mr. Veverka is a distance runner who shatters stereotypes with his personal best as a miler at 5:06. Most of us can only dream of such success. Help make change for Anton Veverka and others with intellectual disabilities by boycotting “Tropic Thunder.” Help show Hollywood that it is time they understand the impact of their actions. To learn more about how you can be a fan of dignity visit www.r-word.org. Sincerely, Bob Norbie, President/CEO Special Olympics Montana Great Falls
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/13/08 Let’s clean up Lewistown, and work together for the Fair Dear Editor, Denise, if you followed the drainage system starting at Spring Creek to the upper section of East Main, you will find something that could mean a jail sentence in California. Tsk tsk! Sweep thee ole doorstep first. And Emma’s letter to the editor, “Fair has gone to pot,” was a bit unfair, in my opinion. Last year I too complained about what I saw. The Fair Board and Dave Donaldson graciously invited me to one of their meetings and politely showed me what it was like operating on a limited budget. They kindly listened to my suggestions regarding the seldom-used Gazebo. Then they gave me the opportunity to put my muscle and money where my mouth was. I was pleasantly surprised how easy it was to find contractors and local business people eager and willing to provide material and labor for fixing up the Gazebo. Did you see the new Gazebo? It was in business 11 hours of each of the four days of the Fair compared to the total of two hours last year. Emma, change was necessary to bring this about. That 100-year argument has gone out with the horse and buggy. Have you noticed that the modern day rancher spends more time on his four wheels than on his four legs? The Fair should be a community effort. The Fair manager should not have to ask you to help out. It should be a natural thing we all just do out of love for our community. That happy face with the rabbit on the Argus front page and that little eight-year-old girl who sang without compensation should be our reward, don’t you think? Let’s complain, that’s ok, but let us also put our money and muscle where our mouths are. Let’s all make it happen at the next Fair. Good motto for next year, huh? Thanks. Jack Behl Lewistown Don’t
forget Agriculture, Horticulture, Arts and Crafts Elaine Thomas ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/9/08 Sale of timber
company lands is bad for Montana Thank you
Sympathy
for the community of Denton Sincerely,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/6/08 Keep local
waters under Montana State control Sincerely Gladys Walling Winifred
Let’s clean up pollution of Spring Creek Dear Editor, I live nearby Spring Creek, and recently I took my dog for a swim. I was by Garfield School bridge (where all the kids swim) and filled almost two garbage bags of beer bottles and beer cans in the water and shoreline. This makes me very angry at how careless and dirty people are. Spring Creek is the lifeblood of this town; it should be respected and not polluted with filth. I have found everything from diapers and garbage sacks to clothes, bottles of all kinds, you name it.It makes me sick to see this in our little town. Do we want our rivers and streams to look like they do in California or other populated areas? Let’s take some time, pick up your litter. If a child or dog stepped on those pieces of bottles it would be a trip to the ER. Let’s take some pride in our beautiful Spring Creek, clean up after yourself, or we will be just like the big cities’ pollution problems. Come on Lewistown, get a grip and be environmentally programmed to keep it clean, or it will be the end of Spring Creek. Thanks for helping to keep Lewistown a nice place to live. Denise Lund
Fair has
‘gone to pot’ Emma Light
Great article
on Irish friends Dixie Lee Joyner
Life, liberty and pursuit of happiness are real election issues Dear Editor, The God-given rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness – are not these the basic justifications for our war of independence, and our civil war? And are these not the fundamental issues of this election?We have heard little about these rights from those who seek to lead our nation. We are told that the economy, health care, and ending the war in Iraq are the issues of this election. These are issues of immediate concern for many. They are not issues of long-term or grave concern for our nation and our society.It seems that we must look to God-given rights and we must discount so-called rights, which have been concocted by humans and have so little to do with our basic rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness which justified our purpose as a society, as a nation.So it seems that we must judge for ourselves the commitment of the candidates to the real issues, that of the sanctity of human life, the sanctity of marriage, and the sanctity of the family. I deplore that the major candidates for president have not addressed these issues. For me, I must vote for those that have a similar concept of what is crucial in this election, of what are the issues for our culture, for our survival as a society.Certainly the sanctity of human life is threatened by our acceptance of abortion, euthanasia, and assisted suicide. Marriage is threatened by the acceptance of easy marriage and easy divorce. The family is threatened by the acceptance of sexual relations outside of marriage. For me, I must speak out against these evils yet condemn no one, leaving that to God.I must support traditional marriage and the traditional family while objecting to the evils in our society, which threaten to destroy traditional marriage and the traditional family.My church teaches that abortion is intrinsically evil, that is, evil in the very act. Moral law confirms that concept. We are born with a sense of right and wrong. We instinctively know that abortion is wrong, even though we may not know the teaching of our church. Thus we know the sanctity of human life. That is certainly the basic issue of this election. Sincerely,
Correction The following letter was published in the Aug. 2 edition. Unfortunately, there was a typographical error in the first sentence of the third paragraph. The word ‘rodeo’ was used instead of ‘rides.’ We are re-running the letter in its entirety and we apologize for the error. Who took
the hatchet? We were very disappointed in the fair this year. Who took the hatchet to the exhibit departments? No wonder you had a problem finding superintendents or judges for the departments, or exhibitors, as a matter of fact. Hundreds of classes were condensed or omitted. “Baby, items, knit” is like putting a draft horse, a racehorse, and a Shetland pony as a “Horse” entry. Enter only one, you choose. Who would want to be the judge? The exhibits are one of the main attractions for those of us who have outgrown the rides. Three generations of our family have entered the fair, through the years, since 1966. For the past 28 years, we have had a mini family reunion the last day of the fair, our “cousins’ day” at the fair. The grandkids ride the rides with their cousins, we visit with each other and friends, check out the exhibits in each Department, have supper at a local booth, attend the AMX races or Demolition Derby, a few more rides, cotton candy from the Shriners, and go home with great memories and our exhibits. Thirteen of our family came from the Billings area for our “cousins’ day” this year. Fair exhibits have always been a big part of “our county fair.” I hope they aren’t being “phased out,” as one might conclude. A special “thank you” to Jackie Rickl and helpers; they made entering the fair a pleasant experience. They welcomed and encouraged exhibitors to become “a part” of the fair. They were proud of their Department and it showed. Bev Emery,
Roy
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 8/2/08 Who took the hatchet? Dear Editor
Labyrinth
Garden is for all to enjoy
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Honesty appreciated To the Central Montana Community, I am visiting Lewistown from Ireland and I lost my wallet at the fair on Friday. Early Saturday morning a call was received at the home where I am staying, saying someone had handed it over to the Fair officials. Because I had been introduced earlier to the lady selling tickets she knew how to reach me. I had money in there and all of it was still there. I have no way of knowing who the honest person was and would like to publicly thank them. I really appreciate the people in America and this will be a nice memory for me of the U.S.A. and Montana. Yours sincerely
Where has
all the money gone? The city also has to come up with $20,000 to $30,000 to destroy the buildings, plus asbestos clean up on the Paris property. Your story in the paper said in so many words that the city has an extra $150,000 so why not chip seal 5 1/2 blocks. Instead of patching chuck holes without fixing the working problems year after year, fix it right. We know that you know how, because you patch the two blocks around the city offices pretty well. This 29-percent tax increase might be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. The one commissioner was right—a lot of people buying houses can’t afford them. By the time they pay their payment, which is somewhere between $600 to $1,500 a month, plus heat, lights, food, gas, insurance, tax, not to mention phone, cable, car payments, and Internet, there is nothing left. In Washington, California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, there are whole city blocks with brand new vacant houses. Don’t think for a minute that we are above it all. By the way, the store you buy food, gas, clothes, and parts, from got their taxes raised so they pass it on; government by government doesn’t work. Dennis Cosner
Thanks for nothing Dear editor, Thanks to the terrible choices the fair manager and fair board made – deleting hundreds of classes in agriculture, horticulture and foods – a lot of people did not enter the fair this year. I would not like to see that part of the fair cease to exist.Are there others who share the same opinion? Elaine Thomas
Hiking trail in need of attention Dear Editor, The BLM Limekiln loop trail in the Judith Mountains is in very poor condition and the hike was difficult for our group. It could even be impassable for some hikers. However, this could be readily corrected with minor attention from the BLM. A stretch of downed trees on part of the trail is noted on a BLM notice along the trail, suggesting an alternative route, which is shown on a poor quality air photo. However, there are no trail signs on the ground for this detour. The alternative route around the downed timber appears to be a rough jeep trail with steep slopes and loose rocks, ending on a ridge with no indication of how to reach the open part of the loop trail. The western end of the trail is obscure and does not have a sign marking the trailhead. I recommend contacting the BLM office in Lewistown (538-1900) to get better information, particularly about the alternative route, prior to attempting this hike. Sincerely, Lee A. Woodward
Writer commendsselfless act by Rice Dear Editor,
Rick Rice has always been the kind of man that has put others in front of himself. I am so proud to call him my friend and have had that honor for many years. Even though we sometimes drop out of touch with the good people we meet, they always occupy a place in our hearts. Thank you Rick,
for your definition of being a man. Thank you for your example of
compassion and bravery. Our prayers are with you all.
Soot, smoke from wildfire can be serious concern for vehicles and passengers Dear Editor, The soot and smoke from wildfires can be a serious concern for both vehicles and passengers, unless the air filters and cabin filters are in optimum working condition. The Car Care Council suggests that these filters be checked to ensure they provide maximum protection during this difficult time. The vehicle’s air filter traps dirt particles, including soot, which can cause damage to engine cylinders, cylinder walls, pistons, piston rings and bearings. The air filter also plays a critical role in keeping smoke and soot from contaminating the airflow sensor on fuel-injected cars. Air filters are a normal wear item that requires regular checks and replacement. As a rule of thumb, air filters should be inspected at each oil change and replaced annually or when showing other signs of contamination. The cabin air filter is responsible for cleaning the air entering the passenger compartment. Under normal circumstances, it helps trap pollen, bacteria, dust and exhaust gases that may find their way into a vehicle’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems. The filter also prevents leaves, bugs and other debris from entering the HVAC system, which could also cause problems. More than 80 percent of new domestic and import vehicles sold in the U.S. today come equipped with cabin air filtration systems or a slot where one can be installed. Most filters are accessed through a panel in the HVAC housing, which may be under the hood or placed within the interior of the vehicle. A cabin air filter should not be cleaned and reinstalled. Instead, it should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or per the owner’s manual. In areas with heavy airborne contaminants, it should be changed as often as necessary. To help you make sure your vehicle is in proper working condition, visit the Car Care Council’s Web site at www.carcare.org to order a free copy of the 56-page Car Care Guide designed to help you save money, conserve energy, improve highway safety and help protect the environment. Sincerely, Rich White Executive Director
Response to the tragedy Dear Editor, The Central Montana tragedy is breaking many hearts as so many of us have children, grandchildren and know of children attending the basketball camps around our state. Our grandson played ball against these boys and talks proudly of them. Only God knows why this happens to some of our children and not others. Prayers and sympathy go to those in so much pain; and for the heroism of those who were at the scene of the accident and so bravely helped the survivors at their own risk, not enough can be said. I am sure their memories and pain will stay with them; therefore we keep them in our prayers also. The reporter, David Murray, wrote this story, I am sure, with tears. Our sympathy and prayers to all those touched by this terrible tragedy. Howard and
Leona Williams
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/26/08 Writer shares thoughts about Saturday’s accident Dear Editor, Mr. Murray, I want to thank you for the wonderful article you wrote for the Lewistown News-Argus Online. Of all the articles I have read, this has been the most sensitive and tells of truth and sincerity. However, I would like to add that while this accident affects the town of Denton, my family from Winifred and Richey will never be the same. My father, Greg Johnston, from Winifred, and my uncle, Marlin Johnston, from Richey, were also the first to respond. After hearing first-hand details from both of them, I must say that they too, along with Rick Rice, need to be commended. My father and uncle arrived at the scene of the accident only momentarily following Rick. Seeing that Rick was in desperate need of some serious help, my father also risked his life, too, by putting himself into harm’s way reeling himself into the burning car to help Rick free the young man from the wreckage while my uncle stood at the side of the road and called 911... this from a stretch of road where no cell phone service occurs. Although I am proud of the emergency response to this accident, 911 operators had to call my uncle back only to keep him hoping that the call would come through on his phone so help could respond to the correct location. My heart goes out to the families of these young gentlemen. It is truly the worst that a parent should have to endure in their lifetime. I know this first-hand as I lost my 15-month-old daughter almost 3 years ago as a result of injuries sustained from being run over. My family has been through tremendously hard times and although we will never heal from the effects of our horrific accident, I just needed to say that my Dad and my Uncle are true heroes to me for the sacrifices they put themselves through for these young men. It is not every day you find people like them. Sincerely,
Editor’s note: The online story was an abbreviated version of what appeared in the paper edition of Wednesday’s News-Argus.
Reader is loving this small town living Dear Editor, So when I phoned some friends on Sunday to ask if they were coming to work in our communal vegetable garden, and they answered that no, they were going down to watch the Budweiser horses go through town, I naturally said I’d meet them there. Now wait a minute! I’m going to go eight blocks to stand on the sidewalk, in the sun, and wait, who knows how long… to see some big-*!! horses that I think I’d seen before, somewhere? You bet! And so we did. We stood outside the Midway bar with paper cups of Bud in our hands, along with what looked to be the whole town population, and waited. The owner of the Midway circulated a photo of the last visit by the Budweiser horses, 50-odd years ago, as they paused in front of what was then his father’s bar. First, the mandatory parades. In Lewistown, more than eight people headed in the same direction is designated a parade. Yesterday we had a few 40s vintage cars, washed and shined and filled with girls throwing candy to the crowd. Then the motorcycle crowd in full leathers tooled by. Then a group of oh-so-wholesome cheerleader-type teenagers came twirling and prancing down Main Street. All very nice, if not so exciting. And finally the horses, eight strong, pulling a giant beer van. They paused for a few photos, and there was no shortage of posers and photos. And then they did something that made the whole exercise worthwhile. From a standing stop on the right side of the street, the driver did something with his hands so slight that none of us spotted it. But all eight horses began sidestepping to their left, right across the street! It was beautifully executed and totally impressive. The crowd was awed. These animals are really big. No way do you toe into a stirrup and swing up on one of these guys. Bring out the ladder! They must be over seven feet high at the shoulder and weigh, I’m guessing, over a ton. Handsome as handsome can be; brass shined and leathers oiled, tails braided and hoofs feathered. They were justly proud. Not as exciting as a presidential visit? Well, I don’t know. Bill Clinton only drew 400 people last month, but the Bud guys, they brought out the town. It’s small-town living and yes, I love it. Carl “Pork”
Lewis
Thanks for making Clydesdales’ visit a success To Dave Sanders and the Lewistown Police Department: Intermountain Distributing and Budweiser want to thank you so much for assisting the Budweiser Clydesdales for the parade on Sunday. You did a great job ensuring that the Clydesdale team, as well as the spectators, were kept safe. We had a lot of fun and are very grateful to you and the other officers. We also want to thank all of Lewistown for making the Clydesdales feel so welcome and we know that they had a great time in Central Montana as well. Thanks for making the Clydesdales’ visit a huge success. John Stokken Intermountain Distributing Lewistown
Body
count continues Dear Editor,
Roger H. Johnson ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7/23/08 Members of Roy community send thoughts and prayers to Denton Dear
Editor, Our hearts go out to the families and friends of these young Denton men. We have watched them throughout the years engaging in different sports in our Class C district. Our children know them, we knew of them. We are so very sad that this has happened. We want the families and friends of the victims of this accident, those who died and the ones still with us, to know that we are thinking of you and care. We would like to offer some hope, especially to those closest to these young men, a way to help when everything seems helpless. There is a Christian song by Casting Crowns which offers comfort and advice, “Just love them like Jesus, carry them to Him/ His yoke is easy, His burden is light/ You don’t need the answers to all of life’s questions/ Just know that He loves them and stay by their side, …The Lord of all creation holds our lives in His hands…/He cares for them just as He cares for you, so love them like Jesus.” You are all in our thoughts and prayers. The Roy Community
When
we have to say good-bye by
Doreen Heintz
As I sit down to write this column I do so with a very heavy heart. It is hard to put into words my feelings about the past few days. I learned of the tragic event that took the lives of four young men from Denton just a few minutes after the parade to celebrate Stanford’s 100th birthday on Saturday. Of course, it was not until the next day that I was able to find out how very tragic it was and of the families affected. Although I did not know the boys at a personal level, I do remember watching them on the football field and on the basketball court. I remember certain qualities about Jace Jelinek from his playing on the Trojan basketball team this year and I would like to share those qualities with you. Jace was a young man who was just hitting his growth spurt, but he had been a fiery competitor since he was very young. I am sure he was influenced by his parents, Ed and Terri. Terri was a member of my Stanford track team in 1981 that finished second at state. At that time, if I remember right, she was a sophomore in high school – just about the age Jace was. Although Jace did not have all the attributes of a great athlete, his heart and desire more than made up for his lack of the physical gifts. One had to just watch him dashing around the basketball court to appreciate his competitiveness. The other three young men who lost their lives, I never knew as well, but as Trojans I am sure they shared many of the characteristics that Jace had. I remember talking to Dayne Heble once this spring on why he had his foot in a cast. I don’t remember exactly what he said had happened, but I do know he was anxious to get out of the cast and back on the playing fields and courts. As a mother of a 15-year-old, I know how much it would hurt to ever lose him. The pain of losing a son or a daughter reminds me of what my grandmother once told me shortly after the funeral of my dad. My dad came from a large family of nine children. He was the second one to be deceased and Grandma said, “I do not want to bury another one of my children; it should be me that goes first.” Unfortunately, that sometimes doesn’t happen. Another memory that was sparked by this tragedy was a stanza from one of my favorite songs from the 1960s titled, “Abraham, Martin and John” by Richard Holler. A part of each stanza of the song is “but it seems the good they die young.” Now we can say the same thing about Jace, Dayne, Kale and Kade. As the talk about the accident spread through Stanford on Saturday and Sunday, I heard several comments about how this accident brought back memories of the fatal plane crash near Utica, which occurred almost 35 years ago. The pain of this tragedy brought back some of the pain from a tragedy many years ago. But I guess the most important thing we should never forget is the importance of friends and family at this time. Most of us don’t know how to express ourselves, but from my perspective, I think the most important attribute we have right now is being a good listener. As we begin to heal over the coming months, please remember to not be afraid to listen, particularly to the young people who may be the most affected by this. As the months and years go by, let’s never forget these four young men. But let us strive to make this world a better place even without them. One last thing I would like to remind everyone, and again particularly to the young men in our communities, please don’t be afraid to cry. It doesn’t make you any less of a man.
Reflecting
on a Central Montana Tragedy by
Beka Benzing By now most of you are already aware of the tragedy that occurred in Denton last Saturday. It will never be forgotten. It is devastating any time a member of such a small community is lost, but for this loss of four to strike so many families, directly and indirectly, it is sure to cause a lot of heartache. When asked to write this column, I felt that I should not be the one to try to understand the emotions surrounding this catastrophe. I’m just a high school student. Why would my thoughts matter? How do I go about trying to sympathize with and offer comfort to those experiencing so much more suffering than I? To accomplish this overwhelming task, I just started writing from my heart. I was not personally close to the four boys who passed on, but I knew each one of them by name, face, family, or talent. As a Winifred student, I watched them compete in sports, play their music, and attend all of the countless activities that they, and I, were involved in. No one can forget such talented, lively, happy boys. They will be missed by all who knew them. The Central Montana area, in my observance, is very community oriented. I moved into the Central Montana area almost four years ago, and in that time have never felt so much a part of a community as I do now. Although the boys are from Denton, every town and student body in the area was affected last Saturday. I believe that it is a rare situation for such competitive student bodies to know one another and be such close friends. I have come to know many fellow students and athletes in this area in the short time that I have been here, and I feel blessed that I am part of an area where, in a time of such devastation, not only the Denton community feels a sense of loss, but also all of the surrounding communities; those nearby feel a desire to comfort those more directly affected. Not being a parent, I cannot fathom the sense of loss that the parents are feeling from this tragic ordeal, but I empathize with you. My heart goes out to every classmate, team member, sibling, and girlfriend, as I can understand the kind of feelings you had for these boys. In trying to imagine what you are experiencing, I think, “What if it were my classmates, teammates, brother, or boyfriend?” I cannot even imagine the feeling of grief and hopelessness. My heart breaks for each and every one of you that has been affected by the loss of these amazing young men. Kale, Kade, Dayne, and Jace were full of life and enthusiasm. I enjoyed watching all of them compete in sports and other events. I loved watching them laugh and joke with friends, and only wish that I could have known each one a little better.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6/28/08 Writer defends Joyce Tuss; questions self-proclaimed town leader Dear Editor: Many of your readers are questioning the intent of a letter submitted for publication in the News-Argus by city commissioner Nik Scebba (published June 11). Scebba must not realize that the News-Argus has always been an open forum for discussion and for bringing to light issues affecting the community in its entirety, including street maintenance and the welfare of our elderly. Scebba’s letter is being perceived as a personal attack on Joyce Tuss in retaliation for voicing her very real concerns about some issues confronting our community in her letter to the editor. Every citizen in the United States has the right to express their opinion and question the appropriateness of allocations of their tax dollars. It seems ironic that at the top of the same page that contained Scebba’s letter, the News-Argus advocates the right to “freedom of speech” and to “petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” The tone of Scebba’s letter is less than professional and inappropriate coming from someone who proclaims himself a “leader of the town.” Scebba’s immature attitude is more befitting a member of an elementary school student council than that of a mature adult serving as a city commissioner. He should be embarrassed. We find it hard to believe that the rest of the city council, the City Manager, and others that Scebba mentioned in his libel against Joyce Tuss agreed to have their professional images tarnished by such an inarticulate and emotional response; and not only because they realize that the people of this community are their constituents. We would be interested to know if his letter was approved and advocated by his fellow commissioners, city employees and the City Manager, as implied. Mr. Scebba, we wish to defend Joyce Tuss. Joyce does not make it a habit to make frivolous complaints in letters to the editor. She was injured and angry when she exercised her right to voice her opinion in the News-Argus. She was also concerned about possible injuries to the elderly, who make up a large part of Lewistown’s population. Any citizen of the United States has the right to question the priorities of governmental agencies without risking a small-minded and malicious personal attack on their character. In addition, unlike you, Joyce and many of us natives and long term residents remember when Lewistown had very nice streets. In the past decade or so, our streets have undeniably gone to pot(holes). All of us want to know how this happened. By the way, Joyce did not mention your name or attack you personally, which makes your vicious response seem so odd. Mr. Scebba, your patronizing and self-promoting remarks on how “you” keep this town running reveal to any reader of the News-Argus that you took the position of city commissioner to reap the glory and fame afforded by such a prestigious position. Is it possible you do not recognize the maturity and brevity that such a position requires? By the way, when you mentioned that “even the media attends” were you referring to yourself as an employee of the radio station? If so, that may be construed as a conflict of interest. Before you go off tooting your tiny horn again, it might be wise to consider practicing a little humility. If you had done your homework before you picked up your poison pen, you might have learned that Joyce and her husband and their families have been paying taxes around here longer than your city commission has been in existence and have contributed much to our community over many, many years. It might also be of interest to you that Joyce has worked hard to serve the public and the elderly of this community in a warm, cheerful and professional manner her entire adult life. Her mother and aunt were beloved elementary school teachers who inspired several crops of local youngsters to be hardworking, diligent, successful, and kind to others. Her father, in addition to being a local farmer and good neighbor, worked full time in the community. Her sister, as a nurse at the hospital, cares for most of the babies born in Central Montana. Her husband, a retired machinist, and his family, are highly respected ranchers, loggers and sawmill operators. He and his family are skilled and conscientious hunters and fishermen and have taught many young people how to hunt and fish safely and responsibly and to respect wildlife. The Tuss family were extremely hardworking local pioneers. They were some of our cherished Croatian stonemasons, who, as extremely skilled craftsmen, built many of the impressive native sandstone buildings (like our City Library that you refer to in your letter) that distinguish Lewistown from thousands of other small towns across the country. Generation after generation of Joyce’s family and families like hers are the true “leaders” of this town. These people have paid more taxes in Fergus County than you ever will. How dare you address them in such a condescending manner? Our community has treasured these families and their contributions for at least 100 years and will continue to do so long after you have moved on to your next job. So, who are you, Mr. Scebba? When did you land in Lewistown and why? We tried to contact you by phone to ask what qualified you as a “leader of the town,” but alas, you did not have enough “spare time” to return our call. Is moving to our town, getting a job at the radio station and meeting twice a month with the other “leaders of the town” what it takes? Does this make you feel you have the right to dismiss relevant questions posed by concerned taxpayers in an extremely condescending manner? Please inform us ignoramuses on the process by which you became a city commissioner, because you seem to consider us uninformed dullards. Were you appointed? If so, by whom, and how long is your term? Or were you elected? If so, how many other “leaders” did you run against, or did you run unopposed? Who voted for you? Are you conservative or liberal in your political views? How many years have you been paying taxes in Fergus County? Why is it so offensive to you that someone would skip a bi-monthly city council meeting and write a letter for the whole community to see? Would you even know Joyce if she was to attend a meeting? Why are you so defensive? Could it be because recent public opinion has associated self-proclaimed “leaders of the town,” such as yourself, with the words “maladaptive” and “misappropriation”? Did you learn anything of value from your elementary school teachers? You referred to the dilemma concerning an adult bookstore in Lewistown. Some of us citizens would like to suggest a plan: 1. Get a dedicated and aggressive grant-writer who has a lot of “spare time.” 2. Obtain some easy to find foundation grant money for the City Library. 3. Hire more workers at the Library and increase the hours of operation and the amount of computers available to the public. 4. Naturally, in a small town such as Lewistown, the majority of taxpaying citizens, no matter how badly they desire ‘adult books’, would never be caught dead entering or leaving an adult bookstore, especially one located right next to their church. These citizens will undoubtedly flock to the library to take advantage of the new, more convenient hours of operation and utilize the inter-library loan system to borrow “adult books” at no cost, or they may use the new computers to order their “adult books” online, with complete privacy. 5. The result: unless they serve some real good pie and coffee, the adult bookstore will go broke in a town like this in no time flat. This is the kind of problem that our town solves for itself. Prioritizing solving problems of disintegrating sidewalks and shamefully neglected arterial streets is obviously more important. Decisions on how to spend tax and grant monies without considering the needs, opinions and ideas of the public and blatant misappropriations of funding are problems that must be addressed by the city commissioners. Most people will agree that a solid “infrastructure” cannot be built on a crumbling foundation. Mr. Scebba, your ham-handed attempt to “educate and enlighten” was neither educational nor enlightening. If you want to “educate” us, tell us what taxpayers can do to help the city commissioners find ways to improve the quality and safety of our streets and sidewalks and prioritize the real needs of this community. “Enlighten” property owners on how they can obtain funding to improve the condition of their sidewalks. Keep in mind that many of the properties in downtown Lewistown, especially on Broadway where Joyce was injured, are historical sites. With some research, you should be able to find ways to obtain funding for their upkeep. As a matter of fact, aren’t these your “implicit” duties as a “leader of the town”? Mr. Scebba, it seems as if you do not grasp the meaning of the word “implicit.” It is not the “implicit” duty of a city commissioner to make excuses, behave in a petty and defensive manner and “take strong exception” when very relevant issues are raised by respected, tax-paying citizens. It is your “implicit” duty to objectively inform members of this community. It is your “implicit” duty to listen to the concerns of taxpayers with an open mind and take them into consideration. By the way, Mr. Scebba, are you aware that the minutes of every city commission meeting are available online through the News-Argus Web site? Just because you do not see every member of this community attending these bi-monthly meetings does not mean they don’t have access to the information presented or that they are indifferent in any way. Have you stopped to think that maybe the average uninformed hick around these parts just doesn’t have as much “spare time” to attend meetings as you “leaders?” At least we do know that we have the right to access the opinon page of the News-Argus to express our concerns. It has never been expected that every citizen of Lewistown attend city commissioners’ meetings on a regular basis to prove that they are not indifferent to the needs of this community or to add ballast to their characters. We want you to know that most of us would love to see people like Joyce Tuss as city commissioners, and, Mr. Scebba, most of us don’t even know who you are. Mr. Scebba, you say you listen, but you did not listen to Joyce. You got on your high horse and maligned her character without knowing a thing about her and her family. We want to assert that you owe Joyce your most sincere apology. If you do indeed speak for your colleagues, you all owe her an apology. Also, assuming you are speaking with the permission of your colleagues, is your letter an example of how you commissioners “listen and act?” And on what do you base your opinion of what is “right and true”” And in what bizarre juvenile comic book fantasy world would you be considered “leader of the town?” Sincerely, Jim Borgreen is an exceptional teacher and human being To the Lewistown Community, When you have a chance, stop and thank a man who has never asked for any acknowledgment in a career that has expanded over 30 years of public service. And by saying public service, it is a mere glimpse of this man’s dedication to his job and community. James Borgreen has left the building and anyone who has been blessed with his presence should stand and applaud. He is more than a simple Art teacher and an exceptional artist. He is a man of exceptional character and an educator to be exemplified. I say this due to the effects he has had upon my life and my family’s life. I today am a high school Art teacher, my brother John is a high school Art teacher and our brother Charlie is a middle school Art teacher. It is because of Jim Borgreen’s leadership, instruction, and encouragement that we have had such successful careers. He is a man who always treated all equally and yet gave encouragement to be the best you wanted to be. He never doubted, never questioned, never underestimated the ability of a student. He gave anyone who sat on a stool and worked a chance to be successful. I know my family owes him much more than we can repay. Many students have walked, slid, glided, skipped through his classroom door but all have left better people then they were before they entered. Why? Because he listened, he conversed, he gave himself to you. He took small burdens when one needed to relieve themselves. He is not just a great teacher, he was a counselor, confidant, and maybe a therapist at times. More important he was a teacher who was a friend, whom his students could count on. So when you see or meet this man, shake his hand and just say “Thanks.” Thanks MR. B. Peder “PED”
Butenhoff Socialism and options Dear Editor, In 1935 or 1936, Hitler instituted mercy killing or euthanasia for the dispensing of people who were a burden and or of no value to the state. This included young children with physical and mental handicaps and older people who could not contribute. This action resulted in the death of near 280,000 people. These were not the people we have heard so much about who were killed because of political opposition or eugenics, i.e. Jews, Catholic priests and other religious and dissidents. Pope Benedict knows about the tyranny of Nazi Germany. He was born in 1927. His father was a policeman and against Nazism. He has a very personal understanding of the above event as a cousin of his was killed “mercifully” because of Downs Syndrome. Sounds sensible! Mercy killing might be an option that would save a lot of money and address the population problems we have. Who would decide who must go? Would you go? or would I go? Many people and politicians in our country consider the unborn child an option. How and when will elderly people and disabled people as well as others become options also? Maybe our country will come to this attitude or one similar with the food shortages that are going to result from the use of corn for biofuel, the floods in the Midwest and the high price of fuel. The high price of fuel will touch every segment of our society through jobs lost, business closures and food shortages. I hear the sounds of socialism in the political air —those singing that tune promise to take care of everything and everyone. Maybe that will be our best option? If we are going to go for that option remember that Karl Marx (1818 - 1883) said, “For Socialism to succeed, Property, Religion and Family must be destroyed.” How can we decide on what option is best? Pat Irish Options other than lesser of two evils Dear Editor, I heard a program the other day in regards to Obama’s beliefs. I’m not surprised about his beliefs or even that concerned, at this point, who is President. I’ve read the book of Revelation and I know that a one-world government that is very against God is coming someday. I had hoped to put it off for my kids’ sake. What I am concerned about is that people choose not to be informed about political issues, or the Constitution. I’d challenge you, have you read the Constitution? Second, we really blew it this year in regards to Presidential candidates. Within the week Dr. Ron Paul pulled out of the race. He has a 20-year track record as an elected official, so we know what his stands are. He is known throughout the house and Senate as “Dr. No” because he votes no on everything that is not constitutional. He has never voted for an unbalanced budget or tax increases. He has some radical (in a good way) ideas about the IRS and Federal Reserve. If you would read Revelation and study our Constitution and watch the first Left Behind movie and study the monetary issues of our nation, you’d quickly see the problem. Oh, and Dr. Ron Paul was a baby doctor for 40 years and delivered over 4,000 babies and said that he has never seen a need for an abortion to save the mother’s life. We had a phenomenal man running for President. There are people throughout this nation that do not bother to do any research, they just listen to and watch the mainstream media. And they have believed a lie – that we only have two choices for President. I’m against Obama and McCain because he isn’t much better. Complaining without offering a solution doesn’t benefit anyone. So, here’s a solution: vote the Constitutional Party or use your right to write someone in. A Christian elected official of the Constitutional Party told us, “To vote for the lesser of the two evils is a lack of faith.” Not to mention you are still voting for “an evil.” I for one have determined that I am no longer going to vote for the lesser of two evils. I did that when I voted for our current President, and he has done more to destroy our national sovereignty than any other President. (NAU, Amero, CAFTA, the TSA, USA Patriot Act, NAFA, Super Highway, Homeland Security, the Real ID Act, etc.) For more information on these issues, talk to Phyllis Schaffley and/or the John Birch Society. Thank you for your time. Sincerely frustrated, Clean alley is noticed and much appreciated Dear Editor, I just wanted to take the opportunity to say Thank You to Duane Ferdinand for the time he takes to do alley cleanup. He takes his own time to clean all the garbage that is left or blown into the alley behind the stores on the Bon Ton side of the street. I just wanted to let him know we appreciate his efforts. It’s always nice to go out on Main St. and see all the beautiful flowerpots and now it’s nice to go out the back door and see a clean alley. Sometimes it’s just nice to know your work is seen and appreciated, Thank you Duane! Cheryl and
Terry Atkinson Local people impress relatives Dear Editor, Lewistown, Montana is told to be the heart of Montana and I think it truly is. While my cousins were here about a week ago they just admired the people here. They kept on saying how incredibly nice everyone was here compared to their town. And that really touched me to hear that. But of course who could forget Lewistown is a big family, the heart of Montana. Thanks everyone. Sincerely, 6/25/08 An open letter
to the county commissioners The graders and snowplows have thrown the gravel into the ditches and fields. They have not crowned the road so it can drain. The berms to prevent flooding of houses in Glengarry, during spring runoff have been plowed out. Loads of gravel have been hauled to fill over poorly placed culverts on Beaver Creek while the rest of the road suffers. No one will put markers on the dangerously washed out roads on the weekends and holidays when they are needed. Flags and markers that are placed are pushed over by the graders and the ends of the culverts broken by the snowplows. This road gets a lot of use due to the increased growth in this area and a subdivision. The many people who drive to work each day along with the mailman and UPS drivers will undoubtedly say it is the worst road in the county. We find the lower Beaver Creek road dangerous and unacceptable and urge the County Commissioners to see that it is properly repaired and maintained. Val Sieler, Bob and Caryl Empie, David Hertzog, Shane Ruckman, Doreen Kim Reese, Tom Smith, Tom and Jeanette Walker, Dan and JoAnn Bristol, Mike and Margee Smith, Dan and Deb Tresch, Earl E. Tresch, Diana R. Tresch, Pat Franzen, Chuck Franzen, Angus and Laura McMillan, Jerry Giedd, Pat Giedd. P.S. The Beaver Creek road has recently been graded and is in fair condition, but we do need gravel in many places. We hope you will continue to maintain it. Peace can be more costly than war Dear Editor, It would be good for all to realize that the vast majority on both sides are not in favor of soldiers and civilians dying. I would venture to guess that those on the right side of the political isle have an even larger percentage of sons, daughters, family and friends in the military than their counterparts on the left. The left for the most part doesn’t believe in this war, therefore they aren’t likely to encourage participation, right? Wouldn’t it make sense that those with children, spouses, friends and family serving have a personal, vested interest in keeping the body count as low as possible? I believe both sides are anti-war, but there is a philosophical difference on which road will lead to the least loss of life. As Shawn Hannitty states it in “Deliver Us from Evil,” “It’s certainly desirable to avoid war when you can, but not at the price of slavery, oppression, or simply deferring more disastrous consequences until a later date.” The hardest part of the war in Iraq has already been won. According to upper level military personnel, we are now in what could accurately be described as a military police action. We are trying to help this first of its kind fledgling Middle East democracy stand on its own two feet. Did you know that violence and military losses last month were at their lowest ever in the last four years? Maybe not if you missed the small article on about page 5 of the Gazette a couple of weeks back. Why isn’t that front page and TV news? It would have been in WW II. It seems the major media want to play down success in Iraq for political reasons. Losses are down, al Qaeda is broken and on the run, major terrorist figures are captured every week and Saddam Hussein is no longer on a brutal rampage. It would be a shame if we exited so quickly and lost all we have gained and endangered the world in the process. Our service men and women who put themselves in harm’s way would then ask, “Why?” The Middle East is a tinderbox with a terrorist mindset, and Iran and others are on the verge of nuclear destructive powers. Did you know that all of this anti-American sentiment got really heated up 29 years ago in the President Jimmy Carter administration? President Carter, through the philosophy of appeasement, did not back our 35-year staunch ally, the Shah of Iran. The Shah was subsequently over thrown by rebel forces. The Ayatollah Khomeini swept into power. President Carter said he is “a religious man,” he will be all right. The Ayatollah immediately began murdering the members of all rival religions and sects, and captured our U.S. Embassy. Remember how it was held hostage until the day President Reagan was sworn in, then the hostages were released? In the streets of Tehran they were shouting with religious fervor and machine guns held overhead, “Death to America, Death to America.” The Ayatollah declared, “We will export our revolution to the four corners of the world.” Pretty hard, if not impossible, to negotiate with people who are ingrained with that kind of hatred and intent to destroy your country. The majority of the civilian and military deaths today are caused by criminally insane people strapping on bombs and walking or driving into bus stations, hotels, police stations, restaurants, schools, etc. There are people in the world with whom you cannot negotiate peace. Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain of England thought he could bargain peace with Adolph Hitler, the Furher of Germany. On Sept. 30, 1938, he signed a peace agreement that said their countries would never go to war. The next day Chamberlain announced to England and the world, “Peace in our times.” That agreement allowed Germany to build up their military, invade most of Europe, and almost destroy Britain and enslave the world. Peace can be more costly than war. It is a question that must be very seriously considered, especially in these perilous times. In the final analysis, it is not our politicians, protesters or preachers that give us freedom of government, speech and religion, but our veterans. We owe all those who have served, including those vets who are aligned with the anti-war side, a deep debt of gratitude, from the Continental Minutemen to the soldiers of today. Without them, it would already be over. Sincerely,
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sad situation for bluebirds |
