Opinion
Editor, “Hello, Jon!” my outgoing husband cheerily called out to Senator Tester in the concourse of the Salt Lake City Airport. The senator, obviously headed to the men’s room, turned around, grinning, and stuck out his right hand. To my surprise, what followed was a five-minute conversation about the state of affairs in the state of Montana. You’ve read about what Jon, a third-generation dirt farmer, has accomplished in our wonderful home. His work supports numerous infrastructure projects, keeping access open to our public lands, helping our veterans by meeting their many challenges, keeping the government out of women’s healthcare decisions, and improv...
Montanans deserve a Senator that respects all of us, not one that uses damaging punchlines that divide us. Senatorial candidate Tim Sheehy’s disrespectful comments about Native people send a dangerous message - that he is okay using negative and tired stereotypes about Montana Indians in an at...
Editor, Consider the economic woes, political turmoil, China news, Putin, car jackings, random shootings, and all manner of negative news coverage. What initiates and drives these sorts of problems? It is what I call FAG: “Fear, Anger, Greed.” This human response is severe...
Editor, This letter supports Dr. Shannon O’Brien for Montana State Superintendent of Schools. The Office of Public Instruction needs leadership that brings change that supports students and teachers in Montana’s schools. Current Superintendent Elsie Arntzen and her former Chief Deputy Susie He...
We’re in the midst of a presidential election. This column has nothing to do with politics. (I bet you’re breathing easier now, huh?) But the business of politics got me thinking - about language and communication and the words we choose to use to explain our angle on things. Fo...
Editor, When someone tells you who they are, believe them. Tim Sheehy joked about one of his experiences as, “a great way to bond with all the Indians while they’re drunk at 8 a.m.” or throwing beer cans at cultural events. He then repeated his racist remarks to other audiences ...
Editor, Woo-hoo! It’s football season in Montana! So much excitement for all the players, schools and towns of all sizes. But I have always felt a sense of dread come the fall knowing there may be another young football player who suffers a traumatic brain injury and a screwed up life from playing f...
Mother Goose is on vacation until further notice. We will let you know when we are ready to restart this popular program. Mother Goose is taking a break until our new Youth Services Librarian joins the team. We hope to have her back very soon. In the meantime, bring your infants and toddlers into the library...
In a recent op-ed by Representative Eric Matthews, concerns were raised about the role of public charter schools in Montana’s education system. As a passionate advocate for high-quality education, I appreciate that Montana law now supports two different types of charter school options in public educati...
Editor, My experiences hiking and backpacking with Shirley Azzopardi illuminated qualities that will benefit House District 13. Her commitment to the outdoors mirrors her approach to politics, showcasing perseverance, planning and a collaborative spirit. Shirley Azzopardi’s perseverance on ...
