Letters to the editor Dec. 21

Heartfelt thanks

During this wind weather event, we in the Flathead Valley are grateful to the whole team at Flathead Electric Cooperative. They deserve our heartfelt thanks for taking a record number of calls with kind and respectful responses along with the courageous linemen who braved the weather; and preserved in the frigid wind, to restore our electric service  for many days and late into the nights.  

Even though most of us are warm now, the crews at the co-op carry on to get everyone’s power restored.

So many good neighbors cut trees and helped one another out. May you all be blessed in 2026! We appreciate you!

— Mary Danford, Bigfork

God’s design

As I am sure many are aware, the recent windstorms caused significant damage to our community this week. I would like to discuss The Bigfork cross and why the best choice is to say farewell to the landmark. 

The cross is a symbol of the faith held here, but I think many would agree that faith stands strong even without physicality. The best symbol of God I can think of is the beautiful land we live on; the glorious mountains that surround us. Why intervene on His design when He took such care to make it so? Who are we to question an incident in which God has allowed the cross to fall? Perhaps He knows that faith needs no demonstration to exist with conviction. 

I would urge us to be thankful of the people around us and rather than spend our time and money undoing an act of God, instead act as He has guided us too. Donate to those unfortunate enough to not have shelter when such storms hit. Check in with your neighbors, and extend hands when hardships such as this occur. Find ways to share love and friendship this holiday season. Do not ignore a message and opportunity to connect.

— Rev. Jamie Cummings, Kalispell

Drew Morgan Memorial Scholarship

To our Columbia Falls and Flathead Valley communities, our family would like to thank you for your support, kindness and prayers during this difficult time. 

Our son Drew’s celebration of life was such a beautiful day thanks to the hard work and loving compassion shown by so many in our communities. Thank you to those who shared stories and heartfelt memories of Drew — these we truly cherish and hold dear to our hearts. 

Special thanks go out to businesses and individuals who donated items and housing for families, as well as those who donated their time to help make Drew’s funeral and reception such a wonderful and uplifting gathering. Also, thank you to those who have donated to the Drew Morgan Memorial Scholarship — this will help us to continue our son’s legacy in both the Columbia Falls and Belgrade communities for many years to come. 

We pray that you and your families have a wonderful Christmas and cherish the precious moments with them.

To donate to the scholarship fund, you can make checks to the “Drew Morgan Memorial Scholarship” and mail to: Drew Morgan Memorial Scholarship, PO Box 856 Columbia Falls, MT 59912.

With sincere love and gratitude.

— Eric, Pam, Cade and Ty Morgan