A big loss for the Flathead

Rebecca Broussard’s recent death was a huge loss for the world of equestrian eventing and for the Flathead Valley as well.

Broussard worked tirelessly to support equestrian eventing in the United States and was the founder and namesake of The Event at Rebecca Farm, an equestrian triathlon and World Cut qualifier that put Kalispell on the map in equestrian circles.

In addition to her support of eventing, Broussard gave much to the local community that shouldn’t be overshadowed by her other accomplishments and involvement with equine groups.

Some may not know that Broussard established a million-dollar scholarship fund at Flathead Valley Community College, or that that she was involved with the Flathead Festival, Glacier Chorale & Symphony, Back Country Horsemen, Human Therapy on Horseback, Whitefish Winter Classic and the local eventing association. She also was a member of PEO, an international association that supports education for women.

Her charity and goodwill were wide-ranging and should serve as an inspiration to us all.

ANOTHER LOCAL woman was in the news this week when Angie Haas-Tennison of Kila was given the title of “Extreme Huntress.”

Haas-Tennison, an avid lifelong hunter since her upbringing in Libby, was the top vote-getter in a national contest sponsored in part by the “Primal Adventure” television show.

Haas-Tennison probably had plenty of voting help from Montana’s substantial hunting community and got a boost from readers of the Inter Lake as well, who voted in big numbers after reading about the competition.

Now the MRI technician and mother of two children can look forward to appearances at hunting trade shows and the big prize: a custom red stag hunt in New Zealand.

Congratulations, Angie.

FINALLY, a tip of the hat in salute to the Wobschall family — Tammy and sons Trevor, Trent, Travis, and Tyler — all of whom are serving in the military at the same time.

Tammy, Trevor, Trent and Travis are in the Montana Army National Guard, while Tyler has transferred to active duty as a combat engineer and is scheduled to deploy to Afghanistan in March.

Tammy previously served in the Army for eight years. Her desire to return to service, as well as her inspiring her sons to do the same, makes her family a role model for all patriotic Americans.