"We continue to be in danger of sacrificing this magnificent area to quick financial gain and misguided ideologies even when it is the beauty of the area that feeds the greater portion of our economy. I do believe, however, that with courage and proper leadership we can pass on to our children and grandchildren a remarkable heritage of abundant clean water, ready access to hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation in a vibrant, diverse economy. Our Flathead valley does not need to become Anywhere USA. "

I am fortunate to have Flathead Valley roots that go back three generations. My great grandfather discovered Montana when he was living in Missouri but, as a laborer, followed the harvest north and west. He was impressed by what he saw in Montana, and in 1919 he loaded his farm animals and other belongings on a immigrant railroad car.

To accommodate immigrants moving west the car was set off on a siding from time to time so the animals could be watered, milked and otherwise cared for. The car was then attached to the next train passing by. My grandfather told me that he understood his father's intention had been to move to the Choteau area. But, inexplicably, he kept going until he got to the Flathead. I am grateful for whatever the inclination was that moved my great grandfather to continue over the continental divide.

Since that time, more than four generations of my family have lived and farmed in the Flathead Valley. My parents made it clear that I should get an education and see the world before I made a decision to farm.

So, after graduating from Flathead High School I attended Goshen College in Indiana and received a BA in education. I taught for two years at a church run school in Pennsylvania before accepting my father's offer to buy into the family dairy farm. Today, 25 years later, I continue to manage and work the dairy.

In all of my travels and work I have never spent a summer away from the Flathead. The strong attachment to a valley that I so value continues today, and it inspired me to enter the race for County Commissioner six years ago. And, though I am a reluctant politician, it has motivated me to run again.