Letters to the editor May 19
Lifesaving heroes
National EMS Week, May 18–24, is a time to recognize and honor the essential services EMS professionals provide to their communities nationwide. This year’s theme, “We care. For everyone,” reflects the heart of what emergency medical providers do. They serve as the safety net for every member of our community, regardless of age, background or circumstance — because everyone deserves help in their moment of need.
At Pintler Billing Services, based in Eureka, we are honored to serve dedicated teams of EMTs and paramedics all over Montana and around the country. Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, our clients respond to thousands of emergencies — from heart attacks to traumatic injuries. Their efforts also extend beyond life-saving emergency response, as they respond to non-emergent situations, transferring patients between facilities and offering assistance to people who do not end up being transported at all. Many of these responders are volunteers, spending their resources to maintain their skills and certifications, committed to serving their communities by being available at all hours, in all weather and circumstances.
This week, we also want to acknowledge the challenges faced by EMS providers in Montana, where many areas are classified as ambulance deserts, averaging fewer than three ambulances per 1,000 square miles. This sometimes leads to delays in emergency response times and long transport distances to reach the closest hospital. Despite these challenges, our EMS professionals continue to provide exceptional care and service, often going above and beyond to reach those in need.
EMS Week is an opportunity for all of us to express our gratitude for the tireless dedication and unwavering commitment of EMS professionals. Their work is vital to the health and safety of our community, and their contributions deserve our heartfelt thanks and recognition.
— Leslie Graves is president of Pintler Billing Services in Eureka.
Legion ball
As American Legion Baseball celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2025, it’s a fitting time to shine a light on one of the valley’s strongest youth sports programs: the Kalispell Lakers. Since 1947, Legion baseball has been part of Kalispell’s fabric, providing young athletes with opportunities to grow, compete, and represent our community with pride.
Under the direction of the Kalispell Legion Baseball Association, the Kalispell Lakers continue to uphold this legacy with integrity, passion and a commitment to excellence — on and off the field. Beyond developing baseball skills, the program instills values like responsibility, sportsmanship and leadership that last a lifetime.
But the strength of this program wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our community. We owe a huge thank you to the many local businesses whose sponsorships help make each season a reality, and to the hundreds of individuals and families who generously support our fundraising efforts year after year. Whether it’s attending events, buying raffle tickets, or simply cheering from the stands, your involvement fuels the success of this program and makes a lasting impact on the lives of our players.
As we celebrate a century of American Legion Baseball and nearly 80 years of its presence in Kalispell, let’s recognize the Lakers not just for their performance on the field — but for what they represent: tradition, community, and the best of what youth sports can offer.
— Toby Liechti, Lakeside