A Ray of Hope is the real deal
Inter Lake editorial
For nearly a decade, Bob and Peggy Christensen and a band of faithful supporters have operated A Ray of Hope as a haven for those who fall through the social-services safety net. Most recently they've added a homeless shelter to the operation, taking in those who have fallen on hard times.
One by one they help the down and out restart their lives. When it comes to public service, the Christensens are true servants and tireless advocates for the homeless.
If you're looking for a charity to support this holiday season, consider A Ray of Hope. They need food, clothing and money to make ends meet at the shelter, located at 46 Fifth Avenue West. Give them a helping hand.
Community spirit is also alive and well in Marion, where locals pitched in to renovate the dilapidated Marion School playground.
The parent-teacher organization held fundraisers to bring in more than $5,000, and the school got an additional $5,000 from Flathead Electric Cooperative's Roundup for Safety grant program.
Parents and other Marion residents held a cleanup day and repainted weathered play equipment. A crumbling tennis court was transformed into an outdoor basketball court. Businesses donated picnic tables and other items. There are plans for a track and upgraded softball field.
The grassroots effort has boosted community pride¼ in Marion and is a prime example of the good that comes out of working together.
Even Christmas is not immune to the demands of the liability insurance industry.
Santa and Mrs. Claus traditionally have ridden on a fire truck in the Columbia Falls Night of Lights parade. But at tonight's parade, the Christmas couple will have different transportation - liability issues have prevented them from hitching a ride on a city fire truck.
We suppose that means that other fire-truck traditions, such as celebratory parades for state champion sports teams, also are precluded by the liability lawyers.
Columbia Falls plans to make the best of the situation, however, with a surprise transport arranged for Mr. and Mrs. Claus. And Night of Lights still promises to be a fun time for all.