Winter Classic is still going strong

When Doug Betters and the Big Mountain first came up with the idea for the Winter Classic fund-raiser, even they may not have realized what a good idea it was.

Betters, who had a superb career in the NFL playing as a lineman for the Miami Dolphins, was the original front man for the benefit, which helps raise money for Flathead Valley children in need of medical care. Betters used his sports connections to help bring other pro and college football players, athletes and coaches to the Big Mountain to take part in a variety of fun events.

And although Betters, who suffered a paralyzing ski injury in 1998, no longer shares top billing on the event, he should certainly be remembered with thanks this year as the Winter Classic enjoys its 20th year of service to the community.

In the past year, 46 local children received financial assistance for travel and lodging while undergoing medical treatment outside the Flathead Valley. That kind of help is crucial for families already in dire straits.

This year's Winter Classic continues today with a Meet the Players event at the Summit House on top of Big Mountain at 11 a.m. For more information, look on the Internet at www.whitefishwinterclassic.org

The community of Evergreen has always had a distinct identity, and has proudly proclaimed its independence from its bigger brother, Kalispell.

Now some are talking about taking that a step further and creating a community council that would represent Evergreen residents and businesses on a variety of planning issues and other matters of local concern.

The idea seems to have merit. Up till now, Evergreen has been represented in part by the county commissioners - but only in part. This move would increase the voice of Evergreen in local decision-making, and that is something residents deserve.

A tip of the hat goes to Kalispell's Sarah Harball, who will join the String Orchestra of the Rockies next month.

Harball just turned 16, yet the viola player won the orchestra's Solo String Competition to earn a spot on stage April 17 with the Missoula-based orchestra.

This is a fine reward for a young musician who began playing the viola at age 7.

In the words of an orchestra cellist, Harball "exhibited both a level of dedication and comprehension that most kids her age, let alone most musicians, never know."

Congratulations, Sarah.