Great stories, from parades to people, mark summer months
Hey savvy news reader! Thanks for choosing local.
You are now reading
1 of 3 free articles.
Several months’ of activities here and around need to be recognized.
Tony Porazzo, Sewer and Water Superintendent, was involved in a critical accident on Highway 35. The result was critical injuries, which eventually led to the loss of the lower portion of his right leg.
One might think that this indeed would make a person despondent. However, Tony has bounced right back and now has returned to work and is delivering his usual “smart remarks” that we enjoy and look forward to. Though the blush on his face has been considerably reduced, he could still substitute for that jolly old man who comes in late December.
The fundraiser held for Tony July 10 was a huge success. The work done by the organizers was impressive. The food by Chris Ricciardi and crew was superb. The bagpipers and bands likewise.
Great season for our Mariners. Superb athletes, they are delivering a great season and recognition for our city. Same can be said about our Purple Rain.
On the subject of athletes, how about Melinda Owen, former Polson High School graduate and outstanding sports star, especially in the pole vault.
We’re all pulling for her as she pushes to join the U.S. Track and Field Team in the 2012 Olympics.
I had the privilege of watching most all of the Owen lads, now fathers to children who are outstanding in their own athletic right, wrestle and complete high school in Missoula when I was a police officer. They wrestled for the “Dean of Montana Wrestling,” Jug Beck. All were a credit to their family in their own right. Boy, time flies when you’re having fun.
The Mission Valley Rodeo athletes did us proud in Gallup, N.M. this past month. Then our own Tim Bagnell performed his roping wizardry at our recent Polson Rodeo. Another outstanding Polson family, both as citizens and athletes, plus mom Dr. Kelly on our District 23 School Board.
Those who missed the Fourth of July Parade missed one of the best and longest. Thanks Joan and Cora and City Hall employees who headed it up, and thanks Kiwanis and Rotary for stepping up and covering the insurance needs.
Traffic tips
So many accidents are caused by people drifting off the roadway, then over-correcting, leading to critical injuries and death. The driving experts say if this happens to you, you should take your foot off the gas and as you slow down, ease back onto the roadway when it’s safe to do.
New out-of-state residents who drive must apply within 60 consecutive days for a Montana Driver’s License or within 30 days for a commercial license.
Also, the day you are gainfully employed you need Montana plates for the vehicle(s) you drive. Those who don’t do this are, in police vernacular, called “gainers” and a ticket will be issued if found in violation.
To the students up and down the valley publicly posting anti-use of meth signs and displays, kudos.
Cherry Festival Days were outstanding and well attended. To all who played a role, superb work.
Recently, I noted former Police Chief Ron Buzzard with his youth work detail assigned out of Lake County’s Youth Court cleaning and picking up trash in the business district. Thanks to Ron, Chief Juvenile Probation Officer Barb and her staff for providing this positive additional effort to make our town look clean.
The new Armed Forces Memorial Staircase begins at 3rd Ave and 1st St. West, and allows easy access to Riverside Park.The railing was constructed by our own hometown guy, Dave Mercer. The medallions inserted into the staircase railing were done by Griff Davies and his son, using a laser process. Both of these are works of art and worth the visit to inspect.
To Tali and the downtown business gang that made this happen, what a great addition, and certainly needed. As one would expect, Karen Sargent, parks director and her staff, were in the middle of this project getting it completed in a timely manner. Thanks also to the masonry cement crew for working hard and furiously.
Hot Days ahead, so enjoy them because six months from now, it isn’t to be. Be safe.
