When they’re not gawking at the beauty of the lake or the majesty of the Missions, I’ve often overheard visitors from out-of-state mention how nice the people are in our fair corner of Montana.

If my day-to-day experiences are any indication, I do believe they’ve got a point. Because, as we locals know, that kindness extends much farther than friendly greetings to out-of-town passersby.

When I briefly asked my colleagues to name some Good Samaritans they knew, a chorus of voices rattled off a long list of individuals dedicated to helping others, whether through teaching, volunteering, giving, or other means. These were people who do it not for the recognition, but to selflessly address areas of need in the community.

They include people like Helen Sorenson, of Ronan, who seemingly “volunteers at everything” according to those who know her best. Sorenson regularly helps out at grade school and pre-school events, the VFW, the Bread Basket, and the Senior Center, to name just a few.

Another was Les Rice, who will be sorely missed on the sidelines of Mission Lady Bulldog basketball games this winter, after recently deciding to step down. Since 1979, Rice had taught his players not only the X’s and O’s, but other invaluable life lessons, becoming a fixture in the St. Ignatius community.

Though known to many as “The Voice of the Griz”, Mick Holien is also known for being heavily involved in numerous local activities, including charitable fundraisers and helping to manage the Ronan Chamber of Commerce.

Or how about the McPherson and Gardner families that have generously donated heifers to auctions benefitting fellows ranchers in South Dakota reeling from an October blizzard that decimated their herds.

Or Ted Madden, the principal of Ronan’s K. William Harvey Elementary School, who helped a family cycling through the area take shelter from a thunderstorm a few months back.

Others mentioned John Miller, who nobly spearheads local Toys for Tots efforts in addition to plenty of other events throughout the year.

And let’s not forget the passion of Nancy Hausermann, Chris “Mr. B” Bumgarner, and Neal and Karen Lewing, who, for years, have spread the season’s joy to many through music and the performing arts.

Meanwhile, food banks aren’t the only ones helping to feed the hungry. Brent Bowman and the LDS Church in Polson raised over 4,000 pounds of food during their recent food drive.

And how could we forget our very own Paul Fugleberg, always at the ready with some quick wit and a friendly hello.

These are only a few of the legion of those upstanding citizens who deserve recognition for making The Last Best Place an even better place to call home. So be sure to stock up on milk and cookies for Santa, because the Mission Valley boasts more than its share of residents who have yet again earned their spot on his “nice” list this year.

Happy holidays from all of us at the Leader!