VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE
By Muncie
5/18/16
RIDE AROUND TOWN
I try to go every day to the Post Office on my Go-Go just to see the trees along the Levee on Front Street. What a glorious sight. I didn’t realize how much I missed the view this past winter.
I actually took two 2 gallon watering cans with fertilizer mixed into the water and poured them on what I call my cottonwoods trees. I had to make 2 trips because there are 4 trees that I had planted. Two are planted on the Levee bank. One is for my Uncle Charlie who passed 2 years ago. The other is for my Sweetheart Wally in memory from his grandson Morgan. In memory of my brother-in-law the third tree is near the Shep statue. The 4th tree is my memory of Wally given by Kids and it is right on the corner.
I am telling you this story for two reasons. The first one is a hearsay story about Mr. Brown who lived in the big white house on Main St. between 19th and 20th St. It was said that he went out each morning in his night clothes to water the trees in the Old Fort Park. I assumed he did it because he loved the trees. No! Hearsay tells that his wife belonged to the Fort Benton Women’s Club and made him water the trees. Thank you Mrs. Brown.
The second reason is to remind you that since there are no longer a Memorial Bench and Table program, a wonderful memorial is to plant a tree and place a plaque for your loved one. A tree may be there for over a hundred years or more. Grandchildren and Great Grandchildren should love knowing which tree was planted for their loved one. It is just a suggestion and I know that there are many other worthwhile organizations to donate but a tree is a beautiful thing.
VISITOR’S CENTER
The Center will be opening a week from Friday. That will be the beginning of the Memorial Day weekend. It looks as though the weather is warming up to enjoy the Memorial Day events. Enjoy the Old Fort Park and the Levee Walking Trail. It is so beautiful at this time of year. Take your family and visitors to the Museums, the Old Fort, the Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center, and along the Levee Walking Trail’s historic signs and statues. It’s a great history lesson.
Check Fort Benton weather reports on the Fort Benton site. I find that is more accurate than the TV stations.
CAMPGROUND
Last Friday late afternoon, I spent time with 9 other people at the Pot Luck and Campfire sponsored by the Fort Benton Cancer Support Group. We were a group of brave persons who faced a lower temperature than we had been used to. However, we were not cold as the campfire was well feed and we had hot chocolate that helped keep us warm.
I am always amazed whenever I attend a Pot-Luck supper. There was not one single repeat of menu foods. We had bbq beef, rolls, potato salad, coleslaw, broccoli salad, oatmeal butterscotch cookies, and lemon bars. Yummy! I even had seconds of my favorite salad.
We were given a small cut piece of a log to write something on. We then threw it into the fire pit. I wrote “Hope” on mine in hopes that there would soon be a cure for cancer. I wish we had shared our writings. I really did not want to throw my piece of log into the fire and to make me happy; a member of the group gave me a piece to take home. I will add it to my collection of unusual rock collection on the dining room table. It is a precious keepsake.
The sun came out for a while and it was actually too warm because I had my long down coat on. Even after the sun was gone, it was wonderful just sitting around the campfire and everyone taking turns talking about whatever they felt like talking about. It was thoroughly relaxing.
This picnic event will now become an annual event. Hope to see you there next year.
MEMORIAL DAY
This very special holiday is less than two weeks away. I have a special project I am working on. I am attaching a note to the wreath that is thrown from the Old Bridge to ask if someone finds it to call the River Press. I would like it to go all the way to New Orleans. Only once, that I have heard of, someone found a wreath near Wood’s Bottom near Loma. That story is not verified as to when but if the someone who found it would call the River Press to verify, it would be exciting to me.
SMALL WORLD STORY
This story is a very personal one and comes to me from Caroleen Willets. This happened a couple of months ago. She and her husband Jim were on vacation in Yuma, AZ. They crossed the border to Los Algodnoes, Mexico for lunch with friends. As they were leaving the restaurant another couple also was leaving. Jim had on his Griz hat and so did the other man. They started chatting and sharing information. When Caroleen said they were from Fort Benton the other man asked if they knew Muncie Morger. This really boggles my mind.
There was another connection with the couple. Bill Miller a brother to John Miller, Lisa Morger Miller husband. Bill and his wife live in Libby and the Miller family will be visiting Fort Benton on or about July 10th.
When I first moved to Montana, I was very envious that you could not talk to anyone without finding you were related or that they knew someone that you knew. I came from an area of about 4 million people.
QUILT RAFFLE
Raffle tickets were ordered and will arrive Wednesday. Be on the lookout to purchase your ticket to support Summer Celebration.
FISHING DERBY AND PLANT EXCHANGE
These two popular events will be this coming Saturday. Be sure to sign up for the Derby. If you do not fish, then just come on down to the Levee and watch the fun. Actually you can watch all along the Missouri. It is the thrill of a lifetime for the young fisher persons when there is that wiggle on the line and they pull in their catch. It is fun to watch too.
Remember to take your plants or any other items that have to do with plants, flowers, seeds, and containers to the Levee early Saturday morning. Every one that I ever talked to about this event loved it. Thanks to all those who do the organization of these events. It means a lot of telephoning again and again.
If this event sounds like something you would like to get your hands dirty for, volunteer. It will make you SMILE.
GRADUATION
We used to get several invitations to Fort Benton Graduations every year for years. As the classes grew smaller, the invites became less and less. The last two years I did not get a single one. This year I received Hannah’s and was amazed at the decorations and set ups for about 6 graduates at the Ag Center. It was an interesting and informative afternoon.
On one of the displays, the one that caught my eye was a sign that said “I’m Outta Here.” I understand that perfectly but just wanted to say that you will be only too happy to get back here. There may be a few of you would will like the bright lights of the city. To others the hustle, bustle, noise, crowds, traffic, higher cost of living, and lack of family, may make you longing for home. My greatest wish is that there were jobs enough to keep you here if you wanted the Fort Benton life style.
Whatever your choice, the main things is to be happy. Do not stress and smile a lot.
OBSERVATIONS
“Sit in silence for 10 minutes every day.”
GOD BLESS AMERICA, OUR TROOPS and THOSE WHO PROTECT US.
Showing posts with label small world story. Show all posts
Showing posts with label small world story. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 17, 2016
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
VIEW from the BRIDGE
By Muncie
2/10/16
VALENTINE’S DAY
I am so wound up about all the Hallmark movies I have been watching today. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if it was a Hallmark perfect world? It’s all about love your parents, your spouse, your children and your neighbor. May you have a special day with lots of love coming your way?
GOSPEL MUSIC
There is more entertainment in store for you on Sunday, February 20th at 2:00pm at the Sunrise Bluffs. They are inviting you to come for the music, fellowship, food, and fun.
To those of you who are friends with your computer can check out the Salvation Nation Gospel Music Group and listen to some of their songs. It looks to me as if there are four men and one woman in the group. Put this date on your calendar and see you there. There is a free will offering.
MORE ENTERTAINMENT
I hope that all of you readers enjoy Montana PBS. Some of the programs I enjoy are Nature, Nova, American Experience and of course Backroads of Montana.
The music programs are special. Some of us older folks really enjoyed an Irish singer Danny O’Donnell but have not seen any of his programs for a long while. I was asked to call PBS and check it out which I did. I found that he will be featured in March but I do not know the date. I get a monthly booklet with the schedules but the March issue will not arrive until the last week in February.
I also asked the very helpful woman who answered the phone, about the 1908 World Champion Fort Shaw Girls Basketball show. It is not scheduled for a repeat but you can get the whole show on your computer. It is 1 hour and 45 minutes long and so far I have not found the time to sit and watch it. I will sometime when I am not watching some other great program on PBS.
I am especially interested in the Fort Shaw Girls because I met the authors, Peavy and Smith before they wrote the book and I was in touch with them for 3 years before publishing.
The other thing that binds me to the Fort Shaw Girls is that they played a basketball game here in Fort Benton in the second floor of the Benton Pharmacy Building. I am repeating this information because some of you may be new to the story and others of you will be reminded.
I also was able to go to Great Falls when the book was published and the Historical Society had a reception for some of the descendants of the 1908 Basketball Team. I also visited Fort Shaw when I was involved with the Mullen Conference and the bus stopped in Fort Shaw. There is a beautiful monument in honor of the Team. If I could go back in time, one of the first things I would want to see is one of the Fort Shaw Girls Basketball games. (Of course, this brings up a whole new subject as to what I would like to have seen back in time. I probably could fill a whole book if I had an inclination to write one.)
SMALL WORLD STORY
This is a personal small world story that I mentioned last week. It happened at the Elementary School between the 2nd and 3rd Showcases when I did not return to the Ag Center. I remained in my seat chatting with a friend from Helena. After sitting for a long while I decided to walk the halls to stretch a bit. I walked up and down the hallways several times and when I reached the front entrance door a beautiful young woman was coming through the doorway.
As I passed the door the young woman said, “You are Muncie!” She spotted my name tag. “Yes, I am. Do I know you?” She said, “No, you don’t but I feel I know you.” She met my daughter, Jennifer, on the plane from Minneapolis on Friday. My daughter was doing a job training class there for her company and was returning to Great Falls.
Julia, the beautiful young woman, was part of the Fritz showcase and was seated next to my daughter on the plane. When Julia said she was headed to Fort Benton for the Consortium, Jennifer told her that I lived in Fort Benton and would be at the event.
So what were the chances that I would meet Julia if I had not been walking the halls and met her at the precise moment she walked in the door. I would say a hundred to one as that was about the count at the event.
The Fritz performed here about 7 or 8 years ago. The Girls were very small then and I remember their act. It included the whole family and the girls did Irish dancing. They also all played the fiddle. Well, they are all grown up now and perhaps they will return to Fort Benton sometime soon. What an inspiring family and what a small, small world.
C.C.P.A.
The next Chouteau County Performing Arts program will not be until Saturday, April 2nd and it will be Pub Night. That is always a big attraction and I’ll see you all there.
SPORTING EVENTS
I appreciate Bethany’s reports on the Basketball Teams. They are very informative to me and she covers everything as well as Skip Ross did with the football games.
I do not mean to ignore the other teams like Volleyball, Soccer, and Wrestling but I am just not able to attend all the sports events. I was not even able to attend the out of town football and basketball games the last couple of years. I really admire the parents and die- hard fans for their ability to attend all games.
I thought that when Fort Benton became Class C, the games would be closer to home. I remember well when we were Class B and we drove to Cut Bank, Shelby, Malta and Chouteau to name a few. We went to Basketball Tournaments in Hamilton. We took turns driving and stayed overnight or weekends in a motel. Gosh, those were fun days, especially when our team won, and we saw some very exciting games. I know that those memories of the “now games” will be talked about for many years. Save your programs and booklets with notes on them and you will be happy you did years from now.
OBSERVATION
A person’s height is determined by their father and their weight by their mother. When I see you about town, let me know if this observation applies to you?
GOD BLESS AMERICA, MONTANA, FORT BENTON, OUR TROOPS, OUR POLICE FORCES, WEAR RED ON FRIDAY, and PUT A GREEN BULB ON YOUR PORCH.
By Muncie
2/10/16
VALENTINE’S DAY
I am so wound up about all the Hallmark movies I have been watching today. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if it was a Hallmark perfect world? It’s all about love your parents, your spouse, your children and your neighbor. May you have a special day with lots of love coming your way?
GOSPEL MUSIC
There is more entertainment in store for you on Sunday, February 20th at 2:00pm at the Sunrise Bluffs. They are inviting you to come for the music, fellowship, food, and fun.
To those of you who are friends with your computer can check out the Salvation Nation Gospel Music Group and listen to some of their songs. It looks to me as if there are four men and one woman in the group. Put this date on your calendar and see you there. There is a free will offering.
MORE ENTERTAINMENT
I hope that all of you readers enjoy Montana PBS. Some of the programs I enjoy are Nature, Nova, American Experience and of course Backroads of Montana.
The music programs are special. Some of us older folks really enjoyed an Irish singer Danny O’Donnell but have not seen any of his programs for a long while. I was asked to call PBS and check it out which I did. I found that he will be featured in March but I do not know the date. I get a monthly booklet with the schedules but the March issue will not arrive until the last week in February.
I also asked the very helpful woman who answered the phone, about the 1908 World Champion Fort Shaw Girls Basketball show. It is not scheduled for a repeat but you can get the whole show on your computer. It is 1 hour and 45 minutes long and so far I have not found the time to sit and watch it. I will sometime when I am not watching some other great program on PBS.
I am especially interested in the Fort Shaw Girls because I met the authors, Peavy and Smith before they wrote the book and I was in touch with them for 3 years before publishing.
The other thing that binds me to the Fort Shaw Girls is that they played a basketball game here in Fort Benton in the second floor of the Benton Pharmacy Building. I am repeating this information because some of you may be new to the story and others of you will be reminded.
I also was able to go to Great Falls when the book was published and the Historical Society had a reception for some of the descendants of the 1908 Basketball Team. I also visited Fort Shaw when I was involved with the Mullen Conference and the bus stopped in Fort Shaw. There is a beautiful monument in honor of the Team. If I could go back in time, one of the first things I would want to see is one of the Fort Shaw Girls Basketball games. (Of course, this brings up a whole new subject as to what I would like to have seen back in time. I probably could fill a whole book if I had an inclination to write one.)
SMALL WORLD STORY
This is a personal small world story that I mentioned last week. It happened at the Elementary School between the 2nd and 3rd Showcases when I did not return to the Ag Center. I remained in my seat chatting with a friend from Helena. After sitting for a long while I decided to walk the halls to stretch a bit. I walked up and down the hallways several times and when I reached the front entrance door a beautiful young woman was coming through the doorway.
As I passed the door the young woman said, “You are Muncie!” She spotted my name tag. “Yes, I am. Do I know you?” She said, “No, you don’t but I feel I know you.” She met my daughter, Jennifer, on the plane from Minneapolis on Friday. My daughter was doing a job training class there for her company and was returning to Great Falls.
Julia, the beautiful young woman, was part of the Fritz showcase and was seated next to my daughter on the plane. When Julia said she was headed to Fort Benton for the Consortium, Jennifer told her that I lived in Fort Benton and would be at the event.
So what were the chances that I would meet Julia if I had not been walking the halls and met her at the precise moment she walked in the door. I would say a hundred to one as that was about the count at the event.
The Fritz performed here about 7 or 8 years ago. The Girls were very small then and I remember their act. It included the whole family and the girls did Irish dancing. They also all played the fiddle. Well, they are all grown up now and perhaps they will return to Fort Benton sometime soon. What an inspiring family and what a small, small world.
C.C.P.A.
The next Chouteau County Performing Arts program will not be until Saturday, April 2nd and it will be Pub Night. That is always a big attraction and I’ll see you all there.
SPORTING EVENTS
I appreciate Bethany’s reports on the Basketball Teams. They are very informative to me and she covers everything as well as Skip Ross did with the football games.
I do not mean to ignore the other teams like Volleyball, Soccer, and Wrestling but I am just not able to attend all the sports events. I was not even able to attend the out of town football and basketball games the last couple of years. I really admire the parents and die- hard fans for their ability to attend all games.
I thought that when Fort Benton became Class C, the games would be closer to home. I remember well when we were Class B and we drove to Cut Bank, Shelby, Malta and Chouteau to name a few. We went to Basketball Tournaments in Hamilton. We took turns driving and stayed overnight or weekends in a motel. Gosh, those were fun days, especially when our team won, and we saw some very exciting games. I know that those memories of the “now games” will be talked about for many years. Save your programs and booklets with notes on them and you will be happy you did years from now.
OBSERVATION
A person’s height is determined by their father and their weight by their mother. When I see you about town, let me know if this observation applies to you?
GOD BLESS AMERICA, MONTANA, FORT BENTON, OUR TROOPS, OUR POLICE FORCES, WEAR RED ON FRIDAY, and PUT A GREEN BULB ON YOUR PORCH.
Tuesday, December 3, 2013
View From The Bridge 12/4/13
“VIEW from the BRIDGE”
By Muncie
12/4/13
WONDERLAND WEEKEND
It is here at last. Coordinators have been working for weeks on the Chouteau County Country Christmas and Bridgeport Station. I know that the River Press is full of the schedules about everything that is going on, not only in Fort Benton, but our entire countryside.
Do not forget to take that walk along Front Street to visit all the shops. You get free treats there as a bonus. I promise there will be no standing in lines, pushing, shoving, or having someone grab, just in front of you, an item you wanted. That would always turn out to be the last one. Ho, Ho, Ho.
It will just be a wonderful day for seeing friends and saying “Happy Holidays,” in case you may not see them again before the big days.
Then there is Sunday afternoon for the Christmas Concert. See you there and everywhere.
SMALL WORLD STORY
It’s all about me as in the story below. I went to the Benton Pharmacy on Friday to purchase a birthday card. As I walked into the gift room, I encountered two women and for some odd reason, (actually being nosey,) began a conversation with them. One woman was from Great Falls and the other from California. As was my habit when I volunteer at the Visitors Information Center, when people tell me they are from CA, I always say, “I’m so sorry.” It most often gets a laugh and this lady did laugh. The other lady from Great Falls then said to me, “Are you Jennifer’s mother?” I said, “Yes, and how did you know. (I do not look anything like 5ft. 10in. tall and blond.) She said, “I am a friend of hers and when you said Information Center, I knew who you were. Jennifer always talks about you and the Center.”
The reason these women were in Fort Benton was the woman from California had asked her friend to take her to visit the small towns around Great Falls. Of course the woman from Great Falls thought about Fort Benton first. The word is getting around about our wonderful town for a shopping and dining experience.
SAINTS GO MARCHING IN
I believe that you all know by now that I have a grandson, Bryan Graupmann, who is a defensive end for the Carroll College Fighting Saints in Helen. There was an article about him on the front page of the Tribune Sports section several weeks ago. Today, (12/1) there was a picture of him with another team mate tackling an opponent? All credit for yesterdays win was for the defensive team. (I am more proud though, that he is in the nursing program.)
On Saturday last, the Saints came through again with a 27 to 3 victory. I was fortunate to be able to be driven to Helena each week there was a game on their own field. I also went to Spokane and Billings with my daughter, Jennifer, to witness winning games. I hope that I am as happy next Saturday afternoon.
We have been so fortunate with the road conditions. Interstate 15 has always been clear and dry each trip. The weather was also perfect for football games. Those of you who traveled for Thanksgiving, must have found the same conditions unless you went east. They were not so fortunate. I would like to hear if any of you have snow stories.
It has been a very exciting fall for football. It brings back all the memories of the Utterback boys and the winning of the Class B Championship in 2001. Fans came from all over to watch great football. Hey Geraldine-Highwood Rivals; are you off your high yet? You must go over that win time and time again. Congratulations big time.
DRIVING LESSON
In a previous View some time ago, I wrote about yielding to the driver on your right. What I did not know and learned from TV a few weeks ago, was that even if you arrive at the intersection before a vehicle on the right, you must yield to them. It does not matter if you get there first. If there is a vehicle on your right, within sight, you must yield. I learn something new every day and may it be to your advantage.
TRIVIA
We are back to history this week. Q. What was the growth rate of Montana in 2000?
GOD BLESS AMERICA, OUR TROOPS and WEAR RED ON FRIDAYS.
A. 0.2 % as compared to the national average of 1.2%. Neveda is the fastest growing western state with a 5.4%.
Muncie’s view on this as seen on a bumper sticker in Great Falls. “Montana is full. We hear North Dakota is nice.” If anyone knows where I can find that sticker, please let me know.
By Muncie
12/4/13
WONDERLAND WEEKEND
It is here at last. Coordinators have been working for weeks on the Chouteau County Country Christmas and Bridgeport Station. I know that the River Press is full of the schedules about everything that is going on, not only in Fort Benton, but our entire countryside.
Do not forget to take that walk along Front Street to visit all the shops. You get free treats there as a bonus. I promise there will be no standing in lines, pushing, shoving, or having someone grab, just in front of you, an item you wanted. That would always turn out to be the last one. Ho, Ho, Ho.
It will just be a wonderful day for seeing friends and saying “Happy Holidays,” in case you may not see them again before the big days.
Then there is Sunday afternoon for the Christmas Concert. See you there and everywhere.
SMALL WORLD STORY
It’s all about me as in the story below. I went to the Benton Pharmacy on Friday to purchase a birthday card. As I walked into the gift room, I encountered two women and for some odd reason, (actually being nosey,) began a conversation with them. One woman was from Great Falls and the other from California. As was my habit when I volunteer at the Visitors Information Center, when people tell me they are from CA, I always say, “I’m so sorry.” It most often gets a laugh and this lady did laugh. The other lady from Great Falls then said to me, “Are you Jennifer’s mother?” I said, “Yes, and how did you know. (I do not look anything like 5ft. 10in. tall and blond.) She said, “I am a friend of hers and when you said Information Center, I knew who you were. Jennifer always talks about you and the Center.”
The reason these women were in Fort Benton was the woman from California had asked her friend to take her to visit the small towns around Great Falls. Of course the woman from Great Falls thought about Fort Benton first. The word is getting around about our wonderful town for a shopping and dining experience.
SAINTS GO MARCHING IN
I believe that you all know by now that I have a grandson, Bryan Graupmann, who is a defensive end for the Carroll College Fighting Saints in Helen. There was an article about him on the front page of the Tribune Sports section several weeks ago. Today, (12/1) there was a picture of him with another team mate tackling an opponent? All credit for yesterdays win was for the defensive team. (I am more proud though, that he is in the nursing program.)
On Saturday last, the Saints came through again with a 27 to 3 victory. I was fortunate to be able to be driven to Helena each week there was a game on their own field. I also went to Spokane and Billings with my daughter, Jennifer, to witness winning games. I hope that I am as happy next Saturday afternoon.
We have been so fortunate with the road conditions. Interstate 15 has always been clear and dry each trip. The weather was also perfect for football games. Those of you who traveled for Thanksgiving, must have found the same conditions unless you went east. They were not so fortunate. I would like to hear if any of you have snow stories.
It has been a very exciting fall for football. It brings back all the memories of the Utterback boys and the winning of the Class B Championship in 2001. Fans came from all over to watch great football. Hey Geraldine-Highwood Rivals; are you off your high yet? You must go over that win time and time again. Congratulations big time.
DRIVING LESSON
In a previous View some time ago, I wrote about yielding to the driver on your right. What I did not know and learned from TV a few weeks ago, was that even if you arrive at the intersection before a vehicle on the right, you must yield to them. It does not matter if you get there first. If there is a vehicle on your right, within sight, you must yield. I learn something new every day and may it be to your advantage.
TRIVIA
We are back to history this week. Q. What was the growth rate of Montana in 2000?
GOD BLESS AMERICA, OUR TROOPS and WEAR RED ON FRIDAYS.
A. 0.2 % as compared to the national average of 1.2%. Neveda is the fastest growing western state with a 5.4%.
Muncie’s view on this as seen on a bumper sticker in Great Falls. “Montana is full. We hear North Dakota is nice.” If anyone knows where I can find that sticker, please let me know.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
View From The Bridge 7/27/2011
”VIEW from the BRIDGE”
By Muncie
7/27/11
AGAIN AND AGAIN
By the time, you read this there will be only three or four days left in July. The summer is flying by and harvests are a month behind. If you like it hot, you have gotten your wish. If you do not like it hot, you have to tolerate without too much complaint. After all, we all did want the warm weather after that ungracious winter and spring. Just about the time we thaw out, it will be cold again, so enjoy.
THE COUNTY SHOPPE
Just caught the 5:30 newscast on Friday evening and saw Wanda Diekhans, one of the coop founders, being interviewed. There were several good shots of a variety of artist’s work shown. That ought to bring a few art lovers to visit Fort Benton. Let’s keep wishing all of the artists good luck with their endeavor. It was a great deal of work to set up and decorate. Actually, word of mouth is the best advertisement. I have always said that appearance is everything and The County Shoppe is on top of it.
A NEW ENTREPRENEUR
The Thrift Shop business is being taken over by Vivian Cameron on August 1st. She plans being open Thursday, August the 4th. The regular business hours will be on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Vi will have an Open House as soon as she gets settled.
This business needed a woman’s touch and appearance is everything. She will be adding a “Kiddies Corner,” where children can amuse themselves with books and small games while their parents look around. She plans on a “Brides Aisle,” small furniture, and household items.
Fort Benton needs this type of business and let us support her efforts. Nice clean clothing in good condition and actually every item that is clean and in good condition is welcome.
SOCIAL EVENTS
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK
The month of August is going to be an exciting time around town. Shakespeare in the Park (The Merchant of Venice,) will again be presented in Old Fort Park in conjunction with Taste of Chouteau County on Thursday, August 11th.
Last Saturday on PBS program, Backroads of Montana accompanied the Shakespeare in the Parks troupe to Birney, MT. Birney is the smallest community to host the tour and according to the narration, everyone participates. The troupe’s sponsors (I cannot remember their names) have been doing it for over thirty years. Each year as different actors/actresses show up, they become family. They are housed, fed, and made to feel at home. Their hostess was even making last minute phone calls to be sure that every person in town showed up at the performance.
ICE CREAM SOCIAL
The Golden Age Senior Center is having an Ice Cream Social on Wednesday the 10th of August from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Listen up folks. This is homemade ice cream and it is awesome. Put the date on your calendar and do not miss this once a year event. Invite everyone you know.
CHOUTEAU COUNTY FAIR
The following week will be the Chouteau County Fair. High spots for me are the Pig Wrestling, The Ringling Five, and the Demolition Derby. However, there is so much more for everyone including the kiddos. Spread the word amongst your family and friends and let us do everything we can to keep this 99-year-old tradition going. Next year will be the 100th anniversary and we cannot let it go away.
The Fair actually begins on Wednesday the 17th of August with the Ringling Five sponsored by the 4-H Clubs. If you have never heard the Ringling Five, you have a real treat in store. They have performed in Fort Benton several times before and you will thoroughly enjoy every minute of their show.
Thursday will introduce a new event and that is a “Bar-B-Q Showdown,” sponsored by The Grocery Store in Big Sandy. I expect that this event will show off all the cooking expertise of our male population. I have often heard some bragging about what experts they are with a steak. This is their chance to see what they can do with a brisket. For details on how to get in on the action, see last weeks River Press.
Of course, the big one for the parents and grandparents is the Pig Wrestling on Friday evening. Let us really support this event this year as last year was a total loss in revenue for the Fair. I cannot imagine that there is anyone that does not know what happened last year. The whole affair was even on the national news. Go pig wrestlers.
The “Play with Gravity” duo sounds exciting but will find me sitting on pins and needles. I will check it out though and just cover my eyes if I cannot stand to watch.
Saturday night will feature a Rodeo and Sunday will end the Fair with the Demolition Derby.
Oh, I forgot to mention the best part of the Fair and that is FAIR FOOD. Everyone I know feels the same about eating food (and lots of it,) that we do not normally eat during the rest of the year. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner for five whole days and again ladies, you do not have to cook for those five days. What fun especially not having to do dishes. There is such a variety of food that you do not have to eat the same thing twice. Go for it…it is only once a year. See you there.
FREEDOM WALK PLEDGES
The American Legion Post 26 of Fort Benton and the Post 102 of Geraldine are holding the Walk on Sunday the 11th of September. It will be the 10th anniversary of 9-11. A Bar-B-Q will honor those who died but area active duty and retired veterans and their families.
Preparations are now being planned and your donations will be most welcome. The Legion has an article in this copy of the River Press for further details.
The Legion will also be working with me to encourage residents to purchase and fly an American Flag on their homes. Ten years ago this would not have been a difficult task and we encourage you to show your patriotism especially at this time of year.
SMALL WORLD STORY
The Visitors Information Center Coordinator, Ruth Carlstrom, passed on this small world story to me this past week.
A visitor from North Carolina came in to the Center who was interested in the Shep story. When she returned home from her trip, she called the Center and Ruth happened to answer the phone. She related the following story to Ruth.
The following Sunday after the woman returned home, the minister at her church told the story of the Faithful Dog in his sermon. He was commenting on the faithfulness of the animal and comparing it to faithfulness that his congregation should strive for in their lives.
The woman went to the minister’s office after the service and told him that the dog’s name was Shep. He asked how she knew that and she told him that she had just returned from the site of Shep’s burial place, the Shep monument, and the brick courtyard.
Her phone call to Ruth was a request for more Shep brochures, Shep booklets, and Shep charms. Now, I would like to know how the minister in North Carolina heard about Shep. It’s a small, small world.
SO LONG FOR NOW
Have a great week and look forward to upcoming events. Drive carefully and think about what you are going to do before you do it. Don’t even think about school starting again. Don’t get too much sun, relax, and enjoy every minute of every day.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND OUR TROOPS
By Muncie
7/27/11
AGAIN AND AGAIN
By the time, you read this there will be only three or four days left in July. The summer is flying by and harvests are a month behind. If you like it hot, you have gotten your wish. If you do not like it hot, you have to tolerate without too much complaint. After all, we all did want the warm weather after that ungracious winter and spring. Just about the time we thaw out, it will be cold again, so enjoy.
THE COUNTY SHOPPE
Just caught the 5:30 newscast on Friday evening and saw Wanda Diekhans, one of the coop founders, being interviewed. There were several good shots of a variety of artist’s work shown. That ought to bring a few art lovers to visit Fort Benton. Let’s keep wishing all of the artists good luck with their endeavor. It was a great deal of work to set up and decorate. Actually, word of mouth is the best advertisement. I have always said that appearance is everything and The County Shoppe is on top of it.
A NEW ENTREPRENEUR
The Thrift Shop business is being taken over by Vivian Cameron on August 1st. She plans being open Thursday, August the 4th. The regular business hours will be on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Vi will have an Open House as soon as she gets settled.
This business needed a woman’s touch and appearance is everything. She will be adding a “Kiddies Corner,” where children can amuse themselves with books and small games while their parents look around. She plans on a “Brides Aisle,” small furniture, and household items.
Fort Benton needs this type of business and let us support her efforts. Nice clean clothing in good condition and actually every item that is clean and in good condition is welcome.
SOCIAL EVENTS
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK
The month of August is going to be an exciting time around town. Shakespeare in the Park (The Merchant of Venice,) will again be presented in Old Fort Park in conjunction with Taste of Chouteau County on Thursday, August 11th.
Last Saturday on PBS program, Backroads of Montana accompanied the Shakespeare in the Parks troupe to Birney, MT. Birney is the smallest community to host the tour and according to the narration, everyone participates. The troupe’s sponsors (I cannot remember their names) have been doing it for over thirty years. Each year as different actors/actresses show up, they become family. They are housed, fed, and made to feel at home. Their hostess was even making last minute phone calls to be sure that every person in town showed up at the performance.
ICE CREAM SOCIAL
The Golden Age Senior Center is having an Ice Cream Social on Wednesday the 10th of August from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Listen up folks. This is homemade ice cream and it is awesome. Put the date on your calendar and do not miss this once a year event. Invite everyone you know.
CHOUTEAU COUNTY FAIR
The following week will be the Chouteau County Fair. High spots for me are the Pig Wrestling, The Ringling Five, and the Demolition Derby. However, there is so much more for everyone including the kiddos. Spread the word amongst your family and friends and let us do everything we can to keep this 99-year-old tradition going. Next year will be the 100th anniversary and we cannot let it go away.
The Fair actually begins on Wednesday the 17th of August with the Ringling Five sponsored by the 4-H Clubs. If you have never heard the Ringling Five, you have a real treat in store. They have performed in Fort Benton several times before and you will thoroughly enjoy every minute of their show.
Thursday will introduce a new event and that is a “Bar-B-Q Showdown,” sponsored by The Grocery Store in Big Sandy. I expect that this event will show off all the cooking expertise of our male population. I have often heard some bragging about what experts they are with a steak. This is their chance to see what they can do with a brisket. For details on how to get in on the action, see last weeks River Press.
Of course, the big one for the parents and grandparents is the Pig Wrestling on Friday evening. Let us really support this event this year as last year was a total loss in revenue for the Fair. I cannot imagine that there is anyone that does not know what happened last year. The whole affair was even on the national news. Go pig wrestlers.
The “Play with Gravity” duo sounds exciting but will find me sitting on pins and needles. I will check it out though and just cover my eyes if I cannot stand to watch.
Saturday night will feature a Rodeo and Sunday will end the Fair with the Demolition Derby.
Oh, I forgot to mention the best part of the Fair and that is FAIR FOOD. Everyone I know feels the same about eating food (and lots of it,) that we do not normally eat during the rest of the year. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner for five whole days and again ladies, you do not have to cook for those five days. What fun especially not having to do dishes. There is such a variety of food that you do not have to eat the same thing twice. Go for it…it is only once a year. See you there.
FREEDOM WALK PLEDGES
The American Legion Post 26 of Fort Benton and the Post 102 of Geraldine are holding the Walk on Sunday the 11th of September. It will be the 10th anniversary of 9-11. A Bar-B-Q will honor those who died but area active duty and retired veterans and their families.
Preparations are now being planned and your donations will be most welcome. The Legion has an article in this copy of the River Press for further details.
The Legion will also be working with me to encourage residents to purchase and fly an American Flag on their homes. Ten years ago this would not have been a difficult task and we encourage you to show your patriotism especially at this time of year.
SMALL WORLD STORY
The Visitors Information Center Coordinator, Ruth Carlstrom, passed on this small world story to me this past week.
A visitor from North Carolina came in to the Center who was interested in the Shep story. When she returned home from her trip, she called the Center and Ruth happened to answer the phone. She related the following story to Ruth.
The following Sunday after the woman returned home, the minister at her church told the story of the Faithful Dog in his sermon. He was commenting on the faithfulness of the animal and comparing it to faithfulness that his congregation should strive for in their lives.
The woman went to the minister’s office after the service and told him that the dog’s name was Shep. He asked how she knew that and she told him that she had just returned from the site of Shep’s burial place, the Shep monument, and the brick courtyard.
Her phone call to Ruth was a request for more Shep brochures, Shep booklets, and Shep charms. Now, I would like to know how the minister in North Carolina heard about Shep. It’s a small, small world.
SO LONG FOR NOW
Have a great week and look forward to upcoming events. Drive carefully and think about what you are going to do before you do it. Don’t even think about school starting again. Don’t get too much sun, relax, and enjoy every minute of every day.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND OUR TROOPS
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
View From The Bridge 3/23/11
“VIEW from the BRIDGE”
By Muncie
3/23/11
SOUND OF MUSIC
Come along with me on a word journey to a Fund Raiser that I attended on the 15th of March at the Community Bible Church. Tenesha Thompson was selected to represent Montana on a musical tour of Europe with the Northern Ambassadors of Music.
It began with a spaghetti dinner. (Why doesn’t my spaghetti sauce taste as good?) The Fort Benton High School Choir and local individuals provided entertainment. It made my day because two young women sang Shenandoah, and that is my favorite song. There were many door prizes and a silent auction.
Tenesha has been working to raise funds for her trip since last September. Some of the fundraisers were selling Papa John’s Pizza cards, and she and her mother making, and selling stuffed animals.
Tenesha’s trip will cover nine countries and she will be in Europe for 5 weeks. The total cost of the trip is $6,500.00 plus spending money. You can donate by contacting her on Face book.
She plays three instruments…guitar, piano, clarinet, and she sings. Her talent is amazing and to be chosen as the representative from Montana is a great honor. My wish is that you all can meet this talented young woman in the near future.
SMALL WORLD STORY
This “Small World” story began with the Veterans Photo project. Ann Shaw brought pictures of her husband and two sons for the display to my house. Somehow, we began conversation about her owning the Book Exchange Store in Havre. One of my “To Do List” projects, for a long while, was to take a trip to Havre just to visit that store.
Our daughter, Darcy Morger Grovenstein and husband Glen, from Prescott Valley, AZ came to visit on the 13th of March. Darcy asked if there was anywhere, they could take us on a short trip. I thought of the Book Exchange and the next day they drove us to Havre.
(A side story to this trip is the water that we saw on both sides of the highway. When I say water, I mean water, water, everywhere. There were lakes never seen before. The water was rushing along in the ditches and in several areas, if more ice melted, the water will be covering the road.)
The store is located in the Atrium Mall Building in the middle of downtown. It is a beautiful old building with several floors of businesses surrounding the atrium (central middle room) and is open to the top floor.
We found the Book Exchange on the upper floor and found that Ann was down the hall practicing the fiddle. She is in a local play, “Fiddler on the Roof,” and is practicing for a fiddle playing role.
We walked back to the Book Exchange where we met Darcy and Glen. Ann began talking about a book that she has ready to be published. She showed us notepaper illustrations that were sketched for her book titled “Roscoe and Tooey Ride the Bootlegger Trail.” One of the illustrations is of the underpass going to Highway 87 from Fort Benton. Artist Greytak’s’ drawing is of the underpass coming into Fort Benton.
Ann then said we had to meet the artist of her book illustrations who had a Picture Framing shop on the level below. Kris Shaw (the artist,) Ann’s daughter-in-law, gave me a warm greeting and said that she reads The View every week. She has been getting The River Press for years. Ann Shaw also is an avid reader of The River Press.
Ann then said that we had to meet her son Dave, and we went to the next lower level. Dave was walking down the hall and when he came toward us, he was looking directly at me. He gave me a hug and said it was nice to meet me at last. He then looked at Darcy and lo and behold, they were classmates at Fort Benton High School. It was an interesting reunion.
Ann told me about her connection with Fort Benton. When she was 5 years old, she went to Nursery School in the I.G. Baker Building. She graduated from Fort Benton High School in 1953, and was married in September to William Alfred Shaw. They went to California in 1954 and moved back to Carter, Montana in 1964.
In 1970, Ann went back to the College of Great Falls for her teaching degree. She taught English and Spanish, (I did not get notes on where she taught.)
They moved to Fort Benton in 1973 and lived in the Greystone. (I have always known the house across Main St. from the First Christian Church as the Greystone.)
Another move in 1976 was to the farm near Loma and they stayed there until 1982. They now reside in Missoula and she checks out her Book Exchange often as she has an apartment in the building.
When I was at the Fund Raiser for Tenesha, Editor Tim and I had a conversation about Ann’s new book. I then learned that she had another book published in 2007. It is “Roscoe and Tooey, Montana Runaway.”
Ann sends greetings to those of you who remember her and the family. She visits Fort Benton often, as her sister, Lorene Stranahan, resides here.
I think all of you readers know how I love small world stories. If you have one, please tell me about it. A thought just occurred to me. I would like to write a book about short stories. I know that Joan Albers would contribute as she has gathered such stories in the past. We hear many stories at the Visitors Information Center.
SOCIAL EVENTS
TEXAS HOLDEM POKER TOURNAMENT is Friday night at the Grand Union. We found this to be an exciting evening last year. Our gambler men invited us women, to partake of the Gambler’s Dinner of Prime Rib. There is also a Poker Widow’s Delicate Dinner selection available. I would hope you are registered by now.
C.C.P.A. is Tuesday evening, the 29th, and The Perfect Gentlemen will be entertaining us. You do not want to miss this one. They are fabulous.
LOMA FLEA MARKET is coming up on April 2nd. I have attended this event for all the years I have lived here. However, I do have one discontent with it. They never have any home made donuts left by the time I get there and trust me, I get there early. There are certain individuals that buy dozens at a time. If I were President, I would limit the sale to perhaps a half dozen to each family. I would not know how to enforce that other than threats of “I hope you get a stomach ache from eating so many donuts.”
Could I use a little influence here? I do not know who makes the donuts, but if you are a friend of mine and I have advertised, your donuts in this column…save me a half dozen please. See you there.
PROM GRAD MARCH is March 26th at 8:00 p.m. This event is also a fun evening and brings back memories of long ago when we seniors were seniors in high school.
I attended a college prep Catholic high school and we did not have any kind of extra curricular. We did have a Prom Dance and the girls had to go to the Nuns Convent for dress inspection. If they thought that the prom dress was not appropriate, you were not allowed to go to the auditorium. The school was located next to the Convent. You could not sneak in because the Nuns sat in the balcony all evening, like secret police, watching everything that was going on. There was not much going on, as we were all too afraid of being expelled for even minor infractions. Things have changed a bit, haven’t they, for the better of course?
ROBIN REPORT
Sorry Matt, I have to take the award for seeing the first robin away from you. Joan Albers said she e-mailed me a month ago to report seeing a robin. The message was returned because my e-mail address was changed. I have to give her credit thought because she has been a friend longer than Matt. (I think that counts, don’t you?) Good spotting Joan.
SO LONG FOR NOW
Today (Monday) is the first full day of spring. It is 2:00 p.m. and the temperature is 47 on my satellite thermometer. The sun tried to peak out a bit ago but did not make it. By the way, did you see that gorgeous moon a couple of nights ago? The evening was overcast but sometime after midnight, the moon appeared. It was an “out of this world” experience.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND ALL OF OUR TROOPS
By Muncie
3/23/11
SOUND OF MUSIC
Come along with me on a word journey to a Fund Raiser that I attended on the 15th of March at the Community Bible Church. Tenesha Thompson was selected to represent Montana on a musical tour of Europe with the Northern Ambassadors of Music.
It began with a spaghetti dinner. (Why doesn’t my spaghetti sauce taste as good?) The Fort Benton High School Choir and local individuals provided entertainment. It made my day because two young women sang Shenandoah, and that is my favorite song. There were many door prizes and a silent auction.
Tenesha has been working to raise funds for her trip since last September. Some of the fundraisers were selling Papa John’s Pizza cards, and she and her mother making, and selling stuffed animals.
Tenesha’s trip will cover nine countries and she will be in Europe for 5 weeks. The total cost of the trip is $6,500.00 plus spending money. You can donate by contacting her on Face book.
She plays three instruments…guitar, piano, clarinet, and she sings. Her talent is amazing and to be chosen as the representative from Montana is a great honor. My wish is that you all can meet this talented young woman in the near future.
SMALL WORLD STORY
This “Small World” story began with the Veterans Photo project. Ann Shaw brought pictures of her husband and two sons for the display to my house. Somehow, we began conversation about her owning the Book Exchange Store in Havre. One of my “To Do List” projects, for a long while, was to take a trip to Havre just to visit that store.
Our daughter, Darcy Morger Grovenstein and husband Glen, from Prescott Valley, AZ came to visit on the 13th of March. Darcy asked if there was anywhere, they could take us on a short trip. I thought of the Book Exchange and the next day they drove us to Havre.
(A side story to this trip is the water that we saw on both sides of the highway. When I say water, I mean water, water, everywhere. There were lakes never seen before. The water was rushing along in the ditches and in several areas, if more ice melted, the water will be covering the road.)
The store is located in the Atrium Mall Building in the middle of downtown. It is a beautiful old building with several floors of businesses surrounding the atrium (central middle room) and is open to the top floor.
We found the Book Exchange on the upper floor and found that Ann was down the hall practicing the fiddle. She is in a local play, “Fiddler on the Roof,” and is practicing for a fiddle playing role.
We walked back to the Book Exchange where we met Darcy and Glen. Ann began talking about a book that she has ready to be published. She showed us notepaper illustrations that were sketched for her book titled “Roscoe and Tooey Ride the Bootlegger Trail.” One of the illustrations is of the underpass going to Highway 87 from Fort Benton. Artist Greytak’s’ drawing is of the underpass coming into Fort Benton.
Ann then said we had to meet the artist of her book illustrations who had a Picture Framing shop on the level below. Kris Shaw (the artist,) Ann’s daughter-in-law, gave me a warm greeting and said that she reads The View every week. She has been getting The River Press for years. Ann Shaw also is an avid reader of The River Press.
Ann then said that we had to meet her son Dave, and we went to the next lower level. Dave was walking down the hall and when he came toward us, he was looking directly at me. He gave me a hug and said it was nice to meet me at last. He then looked at Darcy and lo and behold, they were classmates at Fort Benton High School. It was an interesting reunion.
Ann told me about her connection with Fort Benton. When she was 5 years old, she went to Nursery School in the I.G. Baker Building. She graduated from Fort Benton High School in 1953, and was married in September to William Alfred Shaw. They went to California in 1954 and moved back to Carter, Montana in 1964.
In 1970, Ann went back to the College of Great Falls for her teaching degree. She taught English and Spanish, (I did not get notes on where she taught.)
They moved to Fort Benton in 1973 and lived in the Greystone. (I have always known the house across Main St. from the First Christian Church as the Greystone.)
Another move in 1976 was to the farm near Loma and they stayed there until 1982. They now reside in Missoula and she checks out her Book Exchange often as she has an apartment in the building.
When I was at the Fund Raiser for Tenesha, Editor Tim and I had a conversation about Ann’s new book. I then learned that she had another book published in 2007. It is “Roscoe and Tooey, Montana Runaway.”
Ann sends greetings to those of you who remember her and the family. She visits Fort Benton often, as her sister, Lorene Stranahan, resides here.
I think all of you readers know how I love small world stories. If you have one, please tell me about it. A thought just occurred to me. I would like to write a book about short stories. I know that Joan Albers would contribute as she has gathered such stories in the past. We hear many stories at the Visitors Information Center.
SOCIAL EVENTS
TEXAS HOLDEM POKER TOURNAMENT is Friday night at the Grand Union. We found this to be an exciting evening last year. Our gambler men invited us women, to partake of the Gambler’s Dinner of Prime Rib. There is also a Poker Widow’s Delicate Dinner selection available. I would hope you are registered by now.
C.C.P.A. is Tuesday evening, the 29th, and The Perfect Gentlemen will be entertaining us. You do not want to miss this one. They are fabulous.
LOMA FLEA MARKET is coming up on April 2nd. I have attended this event for all the years I have lived here. However, I do have one discontent with it. They never have any home made donuts left by the time I get there and trust me, I get there early. There are certain individuals that buy dozens at a time. If I were President, I would limit the sale to perhaps a half dozen to each family. I would not know how to enforce that other than threats of “I hope you get a stomach ache from eating so many donuts.”
Could I use a little influence here? I do not know who makes the donuts, but if you are a friend of mine and I have advertised, your donuts in this column…save me a half dozen please. See you there.
PROM GRAD MARCH is March 26th at 8:00 p.m. This event is also a fun evening and brings back memories of long ago when we seniors were seniors in high school.
I attended a college prep Catholic high school and we did not have any kind of extra curricular. We did have a Prom Dance and the girls had to go to the Nuns Convent for dress inspection. If they thought that the prom dress was not appropriate, you were not allowed to go to the auditorium. The school was located next to the Convent. You could not sneak in because the Nuns sat in the balcony all evening, like secret police, watching everything that was going on. There was not much going on, as we were all too afraid of being expelled for even minor infractions. Things have changed a bit, haven’t they, for the better of course?
ROBIN REPORT
Sorry Matt, I have to take the award for seeing the first robin away from you. Joan Albers said she e-mailed me a month ago to report seeing a robin. The message was returned because my e-mail address was changed. I have to give her credit thought because she has been a friend longer than Matt. (I think that counts, don’t you?) Good spotting Joan.
SO LONG FOR NOW
Today (Monday) is the first full day of spring. It is 2:00 p.m. and the temperature is 47 on my satellite thermometer. The sun tried to peak out a bit ago but did not make it. By the way, did you see that gorgeous moon a couple of nights ago? The evening was overcast but sometime after midnight, the moon appeared. It was an “out of this world” experience.
GOD BLESS AMERICA AND ALL OF OUR TROOPS
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