VIEW from the BRIDGE
By Muncie
8/24/16
DEMENTIA/ALZHEIMER'S
As we are all touched by cancer, we also are touched by Dementia/Alzheimer's. The Golden Age Senior Center is presenting a program that will be an informative presentation and help/support that is available to those coping with this disease and caregivers. The date is MONDAY, AUGUST 29th at 1:00.
This presentation will be done by professionals from Brookdale and Highgate Senior Living. There will be a question and answer period afterward. Please put this on your calendar and remind your family, friends, and neighbors.
MY BLAST
For me the Chouteau County Fair was a blast. Even though it was very hot and my heat exhaustion acted up, I had the greatest time.
I nagged all of you readers about entering something in the Fair. Feeling guilty myself I did enter two baked products on Thursday evening. (I wanted to enter my wild flowers but there was not a single one blooming. Last year I won 5 blue ribbons and 3 red ones for my wild flowers.)
I then enjoyed the BBQ contest and was pleased to sit in the commercial building to enjoy it out of the rain and being entertained. I sat way in the back by the veggies display so I missed seeing many of you. There was a great crowd. The Cancer Support Group was collecting donations for the dinner. The diners were extremely generous.
I am a “Lioness” and volunteered each morning from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday and Sunday at the back gate and Saturday with Connie at the Main St. gate. I had a great time. Most folks knew about the parking fee and that it was a Lions Club fund raiser. They would, as they drove up, have the $3.00 in their hand out the window. It was a blast to see friends I had not seen for a long time.
On Friday I proceeded to the Commercial Building to sit with Randy who was selling tickets for the Chouteau County Performing Arts and for Connie Jenkins Fund Raiser “Trip tickets.” I was selling raffle tickets for the Summer Celebration Quilt. We were there all day and were the last ones to leave.
We had company next to us and it was the old fashioned children’s games like balloon busting, a fish pond, a hoop around pop bottles, and a basketball hoop. It was such fun to watch the little Kiddos try their luck.
We were also in the company of the Swimming Pool Repair group where you could make a contribution to those volunteers and buy tickets for the Kiddy Games. I hope the Fair Committee brings back the Kiddy Games and the word will be spread around how much fun they were. There wasn’t too much activity that day.
Saturday I was at the Main St. entrance and afterward returned to the Commercial Building. There was a lot of activity that day and the young swimmers who volunteered to cover the games were kept busy replacing balloons and sweeping the floor.
Randy and I again sat there until everyone left at 5:00 p.m. On Friday the big cooling fans were going and it actually was a bit chilly where we were sitting. On Saturday it was too hot and I stood in front of the fans many times to cool off.
The commercial Building was a bee hive of activity on Saturday. There were classes on baking bread and the students got their loaf of bread after it was baked. The next table taught butter making and you took home a small canning jar with the butter you made. Another class of how to can your garden products was going strong and we really enjoyed watching all of the goings on.
There was a Gold Panning table and that attracted a lot of attention. If you youngsters missed all of the above mentioned programs, then be sure to come around next year. Also read the booklet that is around town about a month before the Fair and pick out something that you can enter.
Sunday morning I was at the back gate and most of the vehicles had parking tickets. It was a gorgeous morning and the tent was set up in the shade and I could study the clouds. I enjoy doing that and the only thing I saw was Grumpy with his large nose from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. I wish it had been Happy but clouds will be clouds.
Randy came at 11:00 a.m. to set up in the Commercial Building and it was empty. I think the Swimming Pool Repair Committee could have done well but all organizations know how difficult it is to get volunteers.
The next time we will be selling raffle tickets will be at the Farmer’s Market on Thursday on the Levee. See you there.
The food at the Fair was fabulous. I love Fair foods because I feel free to eat foods that I do not normally eat. I had breakfast every morning at the 4-H building. They are such a hard working group. Those youngsters will know how to take care of themselves when they grow up.
The Education Building was so enjoyable with the school children’s work displayed. As I do every year, I wonder at the work put into those displays. The Democrat and Republican table were also set up there but the Republican table was not covered. (I wonder why?)
The evening performances were a success. The Pig Wrestling and the Truck Pull were well attended and certainly the Demolition Derby was the very best ever. There were more vehicles and the Herbie Derby was the greatest. The Baumgartner Girls were fabulous.
The stands were completely filled and the parking lots were filled to capacity. People parked everywhere they could find a spot. I had never heard an audience cheer, yell, and clap as I did Sunday night. (The audience seemed to love it when vehicles were pushed into the berms.)
So, Fair Committee, I believe that our County Fair is well onto a revival. I do not know what you can do about getting people to enter at least one item for judging but let’s give it a try. I remember when the baked and canned goods stretched from one end of the building to the other. This year almost every entry got a blue ribbon. Is that because there was only one entry in each category? You have a whole year to think about it.
SMALL WORLD
On Tuesday during my shift from 2 to 4 at the Visitors Center a couple came in just looking for general information. When I asked where they were from I found it was Seeley Lake. I asked if they knew Patti, Jack Gladstone’s friend) and they said they did. I told them that I had just spent the day with Patti and Jack the Saturday before.
This couple, Paula and Roger, planned on leaving the next morning. They became so engrossed with Fort Benton and the surrounding area hey did not leave until Saturday morning. They visited Virgille, Big Sandy, Decision Point, Lost Lake, the Ag Museum and Village, the Museum of the Supper Missouri, the Old Fort Benton, and the Upper Missouri River Breaks Interpretive Center and especially loved our Library. They covered more ground in a few days than most people living in the area all of their lives.
Paula also has a friend in town and was able to connect with her. The friend was out of town but at least they were able converse. Paula and Roger said they would return for Summer Celebration next year because they heard so much about it. They cheered my week.
OBSERVATIONS
“What other people think of you is none of your business.”
WATER, WATER
Sorry Folks, I don’t have enough room this week but will get back to it next week. I found it so interesting and hope you do too.
There are also some small world and interesting stories to tell you but not today. They are from my readers and everyone has a story.
I am going to start a “WHO KNEW,’ or ‘WHAT I LEARNED THIS WEEK” paragraph soon. I learn something new every day. I would like it very much if you would add to it.
GOD BLESS AMERICA, OUR TROOPS, OUR POLICE OFFICERS, and OTHERS WHO PROTECT AND TAKE CARE OF US.
Showing posts with label small world. Show all posts
Showing posts with label small world. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 23, 2016
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
View From The Bridge 8/19/15
VIEW from the BRIDGE
By Muncie
8/19/15
SPECIAL VISITOR
On Tuesday the 11th I did my usual shift at the Visitor’s Information Center from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A young man and his wife came in and in the conversation he said that his mother was coming to visit Fort Benton on Thursday. Her name was Mary and she was, (and still is,) an attendant for about 10 years at the Conrad Mansion in Kalispell. She had never been to Fort Benton before and wanted to see where the Conrad family came from.
I alerted the volunteers due on shifts to call me when she arrived. I wanted to show her where the Conrad’s Honeymoon Cottage was and then direct her to our other attractions.
She actually arrived early on Friday morning after staying overnight in Great Falls to see the Louis and Clark Interpretive Center. I was called about 10:30 a.m. on Friday and when I arrived at the Center and met Mary, she asked, “How did you know my name and when I would be here?” I told her that her son told me on Tuesday and she was surprised. Her son travels around Montana on business and she had not spoken to him. I showed her and her husband Bob, the cottage and sent them on to the Museum of the Upper Missouri to start their tour.
I spoke with Mary today, Monday, and she said that she loved Fort Benton and enjoyed her visit immensely. If you are making a trip to Kalispell and you have not been to the Conrad Mansion, it is a must. The top floor is filled with pictures and items from Fort Benton. Not only is the Mansion beautiful but the grounds are a pleasure to view. Be sure to tell Mary that you are from Chouteau County and hello from Fort Benton.
SMALL WORLD
Also on that Tuesday, a man and his son came into the Visitors Center. I always ask where they are from and the father said that they were from Atlanta, Georgia. I said that I had a son who worked in Atlanta but lived in a small town called Suwanee that is a suburb of Atlanta. The man looked at me in surprise and said that he knew where Suwanee was as he lived there for 15 years. What are the odds that he would come to Fort Benton, Montana that is a suburb of nowhere and talk to someone who also knew where Suwanee, Georgia was located? It’s a small, small world.
THE FAIR
My affair with the Chouteau County Fair is honest and true. I came to Montana from the Detroit area in the state of Michigan and I had never heard of a County Fair.
I attended my first CC Fair in 1993 and was told excitedly by my Sweetheart, that we would be going to the Demolition Derby on Sunday evening. What! A demolition derby, what in heavens name was that? Well, now you will know who screamed the loudest and had the most fun. It was me who knew nothing about County Fairs, farming, ranching, wheat, never learned to can fruits and veggies, ever entered a single baked goods item to be judged, or even knew what a blue, red or white ribbon stood for.
I still have never learned to can but those of you who do, please forgive me. I have other talents. I don’t know what they are as yet, but they must be out there somewhere. I did sew most of the families clothing for about 14 years but gave it up when my daughter graduated from high school. I made her prom and graduation dress and that was the last time I ever used the sewing machine.
I took a quilting class once and made a pillow that I still have. That was the end of that. My eyesight was not good enough for those tiny stitches. I really enjoy checking out the quilts that are on display at the fair.
In the area where the canned goods are displayed, are shelves from one end of the room to the other. They were filled, in the old days, with bottles. Not today. This past weekend there were perhaps two dozen bottles and most of them were entered by the same woman. (I wonder if I could pay her $100.00 an hour, if she would come to my house and doing canning for me. Actually, no amount of money could compensate the work that canning involves.)
There was a minimum of baked goods and compared to the first few years of my residence here and it was sad. Another section had each town in Chouteau County had displaying a fruit and vegetable type stand. We truly enjoyed looking at all those products of hard work.
What is happening here? The Chouteau County Fair should be the most exciting time of the year for farmers and ranchers. I am not excusing town folk either. I love the getting together with old friends and neighbors. I witnessed a lot of that this past weekend. Do you realize how lucky you are to live here in this rural community?
I came from an area where there were 3 or 4 million people. When I moved from my old neighborhood to a new one in Michigan, I only knew the neighbors on either side of me and never knew them well enough to consider doing anything in the world to help them. I was a stranger in a strange town.
There were no open spaces and you drove from one town right into another. My move to Montana was the best decision I ever made. God bless America, Montana, and Fort Benton.
I am ashamed of myself. I did bake a couple of years ago but this year I said, “Oh it is too hot to bake.” I promised myself to do more next year if I’m still around. I will bake when it is cool and put it in the freezer. (I hope that is allowed.)
My friend Nancy L. entered the wild flowers from the garden this year and I won 4 blue ribbons and 3 red ones. It was exciting. I am going to try to do what I can to promote the CC Fair. Can I get you excited enough to do the same? Only your cooperation will make next year the 104th CC Fair a greater success.
Another event I am questioning is the attendance of the Saturday evening entertainment. The audience was very sparse. Where were all those people who complained about not having entertainment on Saturday night?
This is a quote that I overheard, “People pay $14.00 just to go through the gates to the State Fair in Great Falls and they will not pay $14.00 to see great entertainment in Fort Benton.” It is expensive to bring in good entertainment. If you are a Country Music fan and were not there in the stands on Saturday evening, you missed a terrific show. I have loved country music since I was a teenager and it was called Hillbilly music then.
As I contemplate the Fair today, Monday, it is now here and gone for another year. Next year wouldn’t it be great if each family would enter one thing. I will suggest to the Fair Board to wrap that theme around, “All for One and One for All.” How do you like that idea?
50's HOME SCHOOLED
My mother taught me about WEATHER. “That room of yours looks like a tornado went through it.”
GOD BLESS AMERICA, OUR TROOPS, OUR POLICE FORCES and WEAR RED ON FRIDAYS.
By Muncie
8/19/15
SPECIAL VISITOR
On Tuesday the 11th I did my usual shift at the Visitor’s Information Center from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A young man and his wife came in and in the conversation he said that his mother was coming to visit Fort Benton on Thursday. Her name was Mary and she was, (and still is,) an attendant for about 10 years at the Conrad Mansion in Kalispell. She had never been to Fort Benton before and wanted to see where the Conrad family came from.
I alerted the volunteers due on shifts to call me when she arrived. I wanted to show her where the Conrad’s Honeymoon Cottage was and then direct her to our other attractions.
She actually arrived early on Friday morning after staying overnight in Great Falls to see the Louis and Clark Interpretive Center. I was called about 10:30 a.m. on Friday and when I arrived at the Center and met Mary, she asked, “How did you know my name and when I would be here?” I told her that her son told me on Tuesday and she was surprised. Her son travels around Montana on business and she had not spoken to him. I showed her and her husband Bob, the cottage and sent them on to the Museum of the Upper Missouri to start their tour.
I spoke with Mary today, Monday, and she said that she loved Fort Benton and enjoyed her visit immensely. If you are making a trip to Kalispell and you have not been to the Conrad Mansion, it is a must. The top floor is filled with pictures and items from Fort Benton. Not only is the Mansion beautiful but the grounds are a pleasure to view. Be sure to tell Mary that you are from Chouteau County and hello from Fort Benton.
SMALL WORLD
Also on that Tuesday, a man and his son came into the Visitors Center. I always ask where they are from and the father said that they were from Atlanta, Georgia. I said that I had a son who worked in Atlanta but lived in a small town called Suwanee that is a suburb of Atlanta. The man looked at me in surprise and said that he knew where Suwanee was as he lived there for 15 years. What are the odds that he would come to Fort Benton, Montana that is a suburb of nowhere and talk to someone who also knew where Suwanee, Georgia was located? It’s a small, small world.
THE FAIR
My affair with the Chouteau County Fair is honest and true. I came to Montana from the Detroit area in the state of Michigan and I had never heard of a County Fair.
I attended my first CC Fair in 1993 and was told excitedly by my Sweetheart, that we would be going to the Demolition Derby on Sunday evening. What! A demolition derby, what in heavens name was that? Well, now you will know who screamed the loudest and had the most fun. It was me who knew nothing about County Fairs, farming, ranching, wheat, never learned to can fruits and veggies, ever entered a single baked goods item to be judged, or even knew what a blue, red or white ribbon stood for.
I still have never learned to can but those of you who do, please forgive me. I have other talents. I don’t know what they are as yet, but they must be out there somewhere. I did sew most of the families clothing for about 14 years but gave it up when my daughter graduated from high school. I made her prom and graduation dress and that was the last time I ever used the sewing machine.
I took a quilting class once and made a pillow that I still have. That was the end of that. My eyesight was not good enough for those tiny stitches. I really enjoy checking out the quilts that are on display at the fair.
In the area where the canned goods are displayed, are shelves from one end of the room to the other. They were filled, in the old days, with bottles. Not today. This past weekend there were perhaps two dozen bottles and most of them were entered by the same woman. (I wonder if I could pay her $100.00 an hour, if she would come to my house and doing canning for me. Actually, no amount of money could compensate the work that canning involves.)
There was a minimum of baked goods and compared to the first few years of my residence here and it was sad. Another section had each town in Chouteau County had displaying a fruit and vegetable type stand. We truly enjoyed looking at all those products of hard work.
What is happening here? The Chouteau County Fair should be the most exciting time of the year for farmers and ranchers. I am not excusing town folk either. I love the getting together with old friends and neighbors. I witnessed a lot of that this past weekend. Do you realize how lucky you are to live here in this rural community?
I came from an area where there were 3 or 4 million people. When I moved from my old neighborhood to a new one in Michigan, I only knew the neighbors on either side of me and never knew them well enough to consider doing anything in the world to help them. I was a stranger in a strange town.
There were no open spaces and you drove from one town right into another. My move to Montana was the best decision I ever made. God bless America, Montana, and Fort Benton.
I am ashamed of myself. I did bake a couple of years ago but this year I said, “Oh it is too hot to bake.” I promised myself to do more next year if I’m still around. I will bake when it is cool and put it in the freezer. (I hope that is allowed.)
My friend Nancy L. entered the wild flowers from the garden this year and I won 4 blue ribbons and 3 red ones. It was exciting. I am going to try to do what I can to promote the CC Fair. Can I get you excited enough to do the same? Only your cooperation will make next year the 104th CC Fair a greater success.
Another event I am questioning is the attendance of the Saturday evening entertainment. The audience was very sparse. Where were all those people who complained about not having entertainment on Saturday night?
This is a quote that I overheard, “People pay $14.00 just to go through the gates to the State Fair in Great Falls and they will not pay $14.00 to see great entertainment in Fort Benton.” It is expensive to bring in good entertainment. If you are a Country Music fan and were not there in the stands on Saturday evening, you missed a terrific show. I have loved country music since I was a teenager and it was called Hillbilly music then.
As I contemplate the Fair today, Monday, it is now here and gone for another year. Next year wouldn’t it be great if each family would enter one thing. I will suggest to the Fair Board to wrap that theme around, “All for One and One for All.” How do you like that idea?
50's HOME SCHOOLED
My mother taught me about WEATHER. “That room of yours looks like a tornado went through it.”
GOD BLESS AMERICA, OUR TROOPS, OUR POLICE FORCES and WEAR RED ON FRIDAYS.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
“VIEW from the BRIDGE”
By Muncie
7-10-13
ROSE’S 102nd
I just returned, on this gorgeous Sunday afternoon, from Rose Nagengast’s 102nd birthday party. I am predicting that Rose will one day be the oldest woman in the world. Longevity runs in the blood of Montanans as it did in Walter Breuning.
My memories of Rose and our connection were of the Visitors Information Center. The idea began with Carol Kleinjan and Karen Bryant. Carol was the owner of the restaurant on the corner of Front Street and 14th Street. Karen was the owner of the Photo Shop. They realized the need for an Information Center. They arranged a meeting and volunteers signed up to staff an Information Center (of sorts,) in The Old Fire House. They were allotted a small space where the restrooms are now located. It was just enough space to set up a table with a couple of literature racks. (In back of the temporary wall, was storage of the Christmas Nativity set.)
Wally and I took a time slot that year and I cannot remember why we were not there the second year. What I do remember is that Rose managed the whole Center the third year. She spent many hours sitting just inside or outside the old doors. If it rained, she had to close. The area was very hard on the literature. She spent time refilling the racks and talking to Visitors.
The following year she asked me to help. We began gathering volunteers for some sort of a schedule. We were successful and the following year plans were being formulating by the City of Fort Benton to finish the big room for use as an Information Center.
Thanks to Rose, we have a Visitors Information Center to be proud of. Her legacy will always be remembered by those who were in on the deal from the start. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROSE and many more.
LIONS CLUB
The Fort Benton Lions Club is holding a “HUGE YARD SALE” at the Chouteau County Fairgrounds on Saturday, July 20th. Donated items are welcome and calling Don Foreman at 622-5474 will have those items picked up. They will be stored in their storage building until the 20th. What more could you ask for in service for donating. Your presence at the Fairgrounds would also be a valuable asset in the success of the sale. It should be a great deal of fun for the bargain hunters here in town and a great place to browse.
The Lions Club is only one of a few service organizations that still exist in town. I am only familiar with the Lions, the Community Improvement Association, and the General Federation of Woman’s Clubs. Our Boy Scouts are counted among the organizations but I am not as familiar with what they do. I will obtain a report on the Scouts next week.
As far as the Lions Clubs involvements, I have a list of 19 projects they are involved in. Their latest venture was collecting monies for the Fireworks Show at Summer Celebration. It was very successful and as I reported last week the donations almost equaled what the cost was. You can still donate by sending a check to the First Security Bank with ‘FIREWORKS,” written on the envelope.
SMALL WORLD
Last week I asked if there were any “Small World” stories that had happened to others. I received two and they were both great. Hope you enjoy.
I heard from our “Darling of the Reporting World,” Bethany Monroe. She had a two-part story. (Apparently Bethany talks to everyone, friend or stranger, as I do.) Summer Celebration weekend, she was engaged in conversation with a young lady who said that she lived in Great Falls but was originally from Oregon, south of Oregon City. Bethany said, “Really, I am from Malalla.” It is a small town of about 8,000 population. (Note from Muncie: it seems like a big town to me.) Bethany was surprised to meet someone who had even heard of Malalla much let alone live there. To continue the coincidence, she also came to Montana to be near her boyfriend.
And the rest of the story: When Bethany first came to Fort Benton, she met Samantha Stefani at the Fort Benton Elementary. Samantha mentioned that she had a sister who lived in Malalia. Bethany met Sam’s sister and interviewed her when she worked for the Malalia newspaper. Small world indeed.
SMALL WORLD II
The second story comes from Randy Morger. It involved two strangers who visited The Old Fort while Randy was on duty. The first man came into the Fort and Randy noted that he had a heavy German accent. When asked about it, the man said that he was from Switzerland and had immigrated to Canada years ago.
About 45 minutes later another man came in and he also had a heavy German accent. He told the same story about migrating from Switzerland into Canada. Randy then got the two men together and this is where the Small World story began. They were born and raised just a village apart from each other in Switzerland. Not only that, they had the same last name. When they returned to Canada, they were going to contact each other and check if they were related. They had to travel to Fort Benton, Montana to find each other. That is really a small, small world story.
FOUR SHILLINGS SHORT
They have been here before and they are back again to delight us with an evening of these lively International Troubadours. They were first brought to Fort Benton by Vera Conrod. They were an immediate favorite group, that have returned to town for several years. (Note: Perhaps it has been longer. It is so difficult to keep up with time.) Their appearance at The Old Fort fits the occasion. The day is Saturday and the date is the 13th at 7:00 p.m. Bring your chairs and something to sip on/snack on. It is a two hour performance and may the weather be good to us again as it was in the past.
Here is some background on the Four Shillings and Vera Conrod. Vera’s son David and wife Jill lived in San Francisco in 1985. Jill was involved in professional theatre and met the Four Shillings.
It was then that Vera met them.
They came to Fort Benton in 2009 when Vera told Connie Jenkins about them. They came again in 2006 and performed to a full house in the Culbertson building. They were invited back in 2009 and 2010 to perform at the Ag Center and The Old Fort. Do you readers remember how it began to pour rain and we all retreated into the building? The Four Shillings finished their performance inside and it was comfortable and cozy. May this coming Saturday be great weather and we will see you there.
GOD BLESS AMERICA, OUR TROOPS, and WEAR RED ON FRIDAYS.
By Muncie
7-10-13
ROSE’S 102nd
I just returned, on this gorgeous Sunday afternoon, from Rose Nagengast’s 102nd birthday party. I am predicting that Rose will one day be the oldest woman in the world. Longevity runs in the blood of Montanans as it did in Walter Breuning.
My memories of Rose and our connection were of the Visitors Information Center. The idea began with Carol Kleinjan and Karen Bryant. Carol was the owner of the restaurant on the corner of Front Street and 14th Street. Karen was the owner of the Photo Shop. They realized the need for an Information Center. They arranged a meeting and volunteers signed up to staff an Information Center (of sorts,) in The Old Fire House. They were allotted a small space where the restrooms are now located. It was just enough space to set up a table with a couple of literature racks. (In back of the temporary wall, was storage of the Christmas Nativity set.)
Wally and I took a time slot that year and I cannot remember why we were not there the second year. What I do remember is that Rose managed the whole Center the third year. She spent many hours sitting just inside or outside the old doors. If it rained, she had to close. The area was very hard on the literature. She spent time refilling the racks and talking to Visitors.
The following year she asked me to help. We began gathering volunteers for some sort of a schedule. We were successful and the following year plans were being formulating by the City of Fort Benton to finish the big room for use as an Information Center.
Thanks to Rose, we have a Visitors Information Center to be proud of. Her legacy will always be remembered by those who were in on the deal from the start. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROSE and many more.
LIONS CLUB
The Fort Benton Lions Club is holding a “HUGE YARD SALE” at the Chouteau County Fairgrounds on Saturday, July 20th. Donated items are welcome and calling Don Foreman at 622-5474 will have those items picked up. They will be stored in their storage building until the 20th. What more could you ask for in service for donating. Your presence at the Fairgrounds would also be a valuable asset in the success of the sale. It should be a great deal of fun for the bargain hunters here in town and a great place to browse.
The Lions Club is only one of a few service organizations that still exist in town. I am only familiar with the Lions, the Community Improvement Association, and the General Federation of Woman’s Clubs. Our Boy Scouts are counted among the organizations but I am not as familiar with what they do. I will obtain a report on the Scouts next week.
As far as the Lions Clubs involvements, I have a list of 19 projects they are involved in. Their latest venture was collecting monies for the Fireworks Show at Summer Celebration. It was very successful and as I reported last week the donations almost equaled what the cost was. You can still donate by sending a check to the First Security Bank with ‘FIREWORKS,” written on the envelope.
SMALL WORLD
Last week I asked if there were any “Small World” stories that had happened to others. I received two and they were both great. Hope you enjoy.
I heard from our “Darling of the Reporting World,” Bethany Monroe. She had a two-part story. (Apparently Bethany talks to everyone, friend or stranger, as I do.) Summer Celebration weekend, she was engaged in conversation with a young lady who said that she lived in Great Falls but was originally from Oregon, south of Oregon City. Bethany said, “Really, I am from Malalla.” It is a small town of about 8,000 population. (Note from Muncie: it seems like a big town to me.) Bethany was surprised to meet someone who had even heard of Malalla much let alone live there. To continue the coincidence, she also came to Montana to be near her boyfriend.
And the rest of the story: When Bethany first came to Fort Benton, she met Samantha Stefani at the Fort Benton Elementary. Samantha mentioned that she had a sister who lived in Malalia. Bethany met Sam’s sister and interviewed her when she worked for the Malalia newspaper. Small world indeed.
SMALL WORLD II
The second story comes from Randy Morger. It involved two strangers who visited The Old Fort while Randy was on duty. The first man came into the Fort and Randy noted that he had a heavy German accent. When asked about it, the man said that he was from Switzerland and had immigrated to Canada years ago.
About 45 minutes later another man came in and he also had a heavy German accent. He told the same story about migrating from Switzerland into Canada. Randy then got the two men together and this is where the Small World story began. They were born and raised just a village apart from each other in Switzerland. Not only that, they had the same last name. When they returned to Canada, they were going to contact each other and check if they were related. They had to travel to Fort Benton, Montana to find each other. That is really a small, small world story.
FOUR SHILLINGS SHORT
They have been here before and they are back again to delight us with an evening of these lively International Troubadours. They were first brought to Fort Benton by Vera Conrod. They were an immediate favorite group, that have returned to town for several years. (Note: Perhaps it has been longer. It is so difficult to keep up with time.) Their appearance at The Old Fort fits the occasion. The day is Saturday and the date is the 13th at 7:00 p.m. Bring your chairs and something to sip on/snack on. It is a two hour performance and may the weather be good to us again as it was in the past.
Here is some background on the Four Shillings and Vera Conrod. Vera’s son David and wife Jill lived in San Francisco in 1985. Jill was involved in professional theatre and met the Four Shillings.
It was then that Vera met them.
They came to Fort Benton in 2009 when Vera told Connie Jenkins about them. They came again in 2006 and performed to a full house in the Culbertson building. They were invited back in 2009 and 2010 to perform at the Ag Center and The Old Fort. Do you readers remember how it began to pour rain and we all retreated into the building? The Four Shillings finished their performance inside and it was comfortable and cozy. May this coming Saturday be great weather and we will see you there.
GOD BLESS AMERICA, OUR TROOPS, and WEAR RED ON FRIDAYS.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
View From The Bridge 9/1/10
“VIEW from the BRIDGE”
By Muncie
9-1-10
HOME FOR VETERANS DISPLAY
Now that the cooler weather is approaching, and you will not be spending much time outdoors, would you search your photo books (or boxes you keep pictures in,) for pictures of every man and woman who has spent time serving our country. The requirement is a 5 x 7 photo in a 5 x 7 black frame. It can be black and white or colored. If you would have a photo of any Veteran from WWI, it would be a real plus. That would mean parents of people who are now great-grandparents. That goes back a long way
I have been looking for the pictures that I took in a restaurant in Chinook for several weeks. The display on their walls was the pattern I wanted to copy. I found them yesterday (Sunday) and took them today to the Sunrise Bluffs. Karla Ayers, who is the manager, newly, appointed, was very thrilled to provide the wall space to put the display. Karla said that when the project is completed, she would have an open house to celebrate the occasion. Now all we need is the photos. Will you please make it a priority? Karla also suggested that any special awards, accommodations, or memorabilia would go well with the display.
Pam Schoonover has volunteered to make the labels (in gold) with the name, rank and branch of service on them for the front of the photo. On the back will be a white label with more detailed info about the person (basic facts.) The Research Center has also provided the project with a file drawer to keep the pictures until needed and it is marked, “Veterans Photos." There are about 8 photos there now. (On the Fort Benton web site, you can see a picture of one of the displays at the Chinook restaurant.) You can take them to the office at the Ag Center (open from 8:00 a.m. to noon every day Monday through Friday.) You can also drop them at the Visitors Information Center during the month of September from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. A third location for drop off would be the Sunrise Bluffs. Do whatever is convenient for you and but just do it.
SMALL WORLD
One of the great rewards of volunteering at the Visitor’s Information Center in the Old Fire Hall is greeting and meeting the Visitors. Beverly Grass, who moved to Fort Benton from Box Elder four and a half years ago, was fulfilling her shift at the Center last Friday. She is a faithful volunteer and likes to be at the Center. She also belongs to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of Fort Benton and she and her committee fed the Rocky Mountain International European Tour Guides last spring.
A couple came in from Kalispell and Beverly said that she had an aunt who had lived there. Her aunt, Eunice Chapin, was a schoolteacher and the man exclaimed that she was his 6th grade teacher and the best teacher he ever had. It warmed Beverly’s heart to hear this, as do others who have small world experiences.
The second small world story involves Edna McSweeney who had a friend come to the Center inquiring about her. The friend was Theo Carrie and their friendship grew when they were nurses here in Fort Benton’s St. Clare Hospital. They had not seen each other for about 10 years.
They had conversation about how they were in training for surgical procedures, the OB department, and Central Supply. That last department did all the sterilizing for the entire hospital. They worked long hours at very physical labor. Many of you readers who are Senior Citizens probably remember the team.
If the Information Center had not been there, they may have never found each other again. If the person on duty had not known Edna or how to get in touch with her, they may have never found each other. It warms your heart doesn’t it?
RECYCLING
No. 2 “PUT ONE FOOT IN FRONT OF THE OTHER. One hundred years ago, 99.9% of people got by without cars. They took the bus, train, and lived near their workplaces…and they walked. Using fuel-efficient cars is important, but we can save even more fuel by simply driving less.”
There are many people, youngsters and children seen riding bikes around town. Good for you because it also affords great exercise and good fresh air in your lungs. You are doing your part in making a healthier U.S.A.
COUNCIL MEETING
The next meeting will be Tuesday, September7th because of the holiday on Monday. Please try to attend and get involved with your City government. Do not rely on your Mayor and Councilpersons to make all your decisions for you. If you cannot attend the meetings then at least contact your district councilperson and let them know how you feel.
The remodeling is coming along nicely. If you have never been to the old building…it was a disaster. The walls were crumbling and the restroom…well; I do not know how to describe it. We will be very proud to show off the New City Hall and Police Station to our visitors.
SO LONG VIRGINIA BAILEY
Virginia will be sorely missed with her “always on her face smile,” her kindness and helpfulness. She was the oldest member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of Fort Benton. It was a record 63 years. She and Toni Molinario handled the Woman’s Club Pie Auction for years and as a team sold more tickets than anyone else on all the Fund Raising projects. They would go up and down Front Street selling tickets and would get to everyone before any of the other members could. Virginia also invited more women to join Woman’s Club than anyone else.
When I moved to Fort Benton and started on the Mail Route with Wally, Virginia was one of our delivery mailboxes. Connie Jenkins (my neighbor) invited me to join the Club but I told her that I had already been invited. Virginia had come out to the mailbox to ask me. It was so like her to be considerate to a newcomer.
One delivery day, we had a package for her and we took it to her door. The farm wife that she was…she had just made chicken soup with homemade noodles. It was the best chicken soup I have ever eaten and was exactly like my grandmother’s. What a wonderful memory I have of her and will remember her always.
GO HORNS
Congrats on your win Saturday. The Great Falls Tribune said that the Longhorns looked the most like winning the Conference. (They also mentioned Chinook but I have no doubt about who was #1. However, Chinook did pound into the ground the Centerville team. We should give them some credit for that, as it ended Centerville’s long winning streak.) The Longhorns play Chinook at their field on September 17th. Fans will want to make that game. Go Horns.
SO LONG FOR NOW
Enjoy the starting of all your organization meetings. Contribute what you can, enjoy every minute of every day, do a good deed, and just be happy.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
By Muncie
9-1-10
HOME FOR VETERANS DISPLAY
Now that the cooler weather is approaching, and you will not be spending much time outdoors, would you search your photo books (or boxes you keep pictures in,) for pictures of every man and woman who has spent time serving our country. The requirement is a 5 x 7 photo in a 5 x 7 black frame. It can be black and white or colored. If you would have a photo of any Veteran from WWI, it would be a real plus. That would mean parents of people who are now great-grandparents. That goes back a long way
I have been looking for the pictures that I took in a restaurant in Chinook for several weeks. The display on their walls was the pattern I wanted to copy. I found them yesterday (Sunday) and took them today to the Sunrise Bluffs. Karla Ayers, who is the manager, newly, appointed, was very thrilled to provide the wall space to put the display. Karla said that when the project is completed, she would have an open house to celebrate the occasion. Now all we need is the photos. Will you please make it a priority? Karla also suggested that any special awards, accommodations, or memorabilia would go well with the display.
SMALL WORLD
One of the great rewards of volunteering at the Visitor’s Information Center in the Old Fire Hall is greeting and meeting the Visitors. Beverly Grass, who moved to Fort Benton from Box Elder four and a half years ago, was fulfilling her shift at the Center last Friday. She is a faithful volunteer and likes to be at the Center. She also belongs to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of Fort Benton and she and her committee fed the Rocky Mountain International European Tour Guides last spring.
A couple came in from Kalispell and Beverly said that she had an aunt who had lived there. Her aunt, Eunice Chapin, was a schoolteacher and the man exclaimed that she was his 6th grade teacher and the best teacher he ever had. It warmed Beverly’s heart to hear this, as do others who have small world experiences.
The second small world story involves Edna McSweeney who had a friend come to the Center inquiring about her. The friend was Theo Carrie and their friendship grew when they were nurses here in Fort Benton’s St. Clare Hospital. They had not seen each other for about 10 years.
They had conversation about how they were in training for surgical procedures, the OB department, and Central Supply. That last department did all the sterilizing for the entire hospital. They worked long hours at very physical labor. Many of you readers who are Senior Citizens probably remember the team.
If the Information Center had not been there, they may have never found each other again. If the person on duty had not known Edna or how to get in touch with her, they may have never found each other. It warms your heart doesn’t it?
RECYCLING
No. 2 “PUT ONE FOOT IN FRONT OF THE OTHER. One hundred years ago, 99.9% of people got by without cars. They took the bus, train, and lived near their workplaces…and they walked. Using fuel-efficient cars is important, but we can save even more fuel by simply driving less.”
There are many people, youngsters and children seen riding bikes around town. Good for you because it also affords great exercise and good fresh air in your lungs. You are doing your part in making a healthier U.S.A.
COUNCIL MEETING
The next meeting will be Tuesday, September7th because of the holiday on Monday. Please try to attend and get involved with your City government. Do not rely on your Mayor and Councilpersons to make all your decisions for you. If you cannot attend the meetings then at least contact your district councilperson and let them know how you feel.
The remodeling is coming along nicely. If you have never been to the old building…it was a disaster. The walls were crumbling and the restroom…well; I do not know how to describe it. We will be very proud to show off the New City Hall and Police Station to our visitors.
SO LONG VIRGINIA BAILEY
Virginia will be sorely missed with her “always on her face smile,” her kindness and helpfulness. She was the oldest member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs of Fort Benton. It was a record 63 years. She and Toni Molinario handled the Woman’s Club Pie Auction for years and as a team sold more tickets than anyone else on all the Fund Raising projects. They would go up and down Front Street selling tickets and would get to everyone before any of the other members could. Virginia also invited more women to join Woman’s Club than anyone else.
When I moved to Fort Benton and started on the Mail Route with Wally, Virginia was one of our delivery mailboxes. Connie Jenkins (my neighbor) invited me to join the Club but I told her that I had already been invited. Virginia had come out to the mailbox to ask me. It was so like her to be considerate to a newcomer.
One delivery day, we had a package for her and we took it to her door. The farm wife that she was…she had just made chicken soup with homemade noodles. It was the best chicken soup I have ever eaten and was exactly like my grandmother’s. What a wonderful memory I have of her and will remember her always.
GO HORNS
Congrats on your win Saturday. The Great Falls Tribune said that the Longhorns looked the most like winning the Conference. (They also mentioned Chinook but I have no doubt about who was #1. However, Chinook did pound into the ground the Centerville team. We should give them some credit for that, as it ended Centerville’s long winning streak.) The Longhorns play Chinook at their field on September 17th. Fans will want to make that game. Go Horns.
SO LONG FOR NOW
Enjoy the starting of all your organization meetings. Contribute what you can, enjoy every minute of every day, do a good deed, and just be happy.
GOD BLESS AMERICA
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