Columns
It seemed like such a good idea, as most bad ideas do initially. My motives were sound and intentions genuine. I’d help the environment while whipping myself into shape. I’d save on wear and tear to my car. And, I’d set a good example for my kids by walking the walk and talking the talk (or pedaling the pedal as the case may be). I was surprised I hadn’t thought of the grand plan before. It was a no-brainer, really, an inspired concept: I’d get myself a bike and ride it to the grocery store. I’d save on gas and burn calories all at the same time. I patted myself on the back. Sometimes I can be so clever. I purchased a one-speed mombike for the jo...
I have recently become aware of the Swan Resource Study undertaken by the Lake County Conservation District. Having been born and raised in Western Montana, and now a property owner in the Swan Lake area, I have, like every other Montanan, a keen interest in the conservation of wildlife habitat, soil, water ...
Even though some politicians in Washington want to keep disagreeing with the science, the effects of climate change in Montana can be seen far and wide. Whether it is the spread of mountain pine beetle infestations, increased frequency of wildfires, or extreme drought, climate change threatens to affect the ...
As governor of Montana, it’s my job to responsibly manage the state through everything from a difficult fire season and the challenges posed by increasing drought conditions to making sure we take advantage of the opportunities presented by our growing outdoor recreation economy. This includes making t...
Lance Hames of Ronan, argued last week for universal Medicare. He offers as a solution to our broken medical system, our omnipotent federal government. His solution is the very thing that has created this mess. For the entire history of this nation until 1965, healthcare costs rose slower than the Consumer P...
They sat unassumingly on a shelf in the gardening department. I was on the hunt for fertilizer, but these little potted beauties caught my eye and caused me to pause. Even though I’d never seen anything like them before in real life, I identified them immediately. I figured my boys would be more than i...
In his column of July 19, Senator Greg Hertz details the burden Obamacare places on small business. He does so ably and factually. The points he makes are valid, have been stated by others of equal credibility, and predate Obamacare. During the years Ford Motors owned Volvo, CEO/Executive Chairman Bill Ford ...
Are you ready for the solar eclipse? Come join us at the library on Monday, Aug. 21 for our Solar Eclipse Block Party from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. We will have crafts for kids, educational displays, a photo booth, music, prizes and more. Mission Valley Eye Center/ Ronan Eye Clinic has generously sponsored the purc...
August gardening calendar General August is often dry and hot, so be sure to water your crops and ornamentals that need irrigation to produce, especially those that must not dry out (primroses, chrysanthemums, etc.). Pay attention to the timing of harvesting vegetables and cut flowers. Harvest and dry h...
He is growing like a weed. But it’s a weed we cultivate, a weed we help grow. We will never pull him up by the roots or attempt to eradicate his existence. He is growing like a weed and we wouldn’t have it any other way. Although he’s the little brother, he’s always measured taller...
