Connect With Your Community!
Connect With Your Community!
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I listen to many podcasts, but one of my favorites is The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast. In a recent podcast, the guest, James Clear, Author of Atomic Habits, talks about how our habits are a symptom of our priorities. And John Maxwell shared how our goals and our personal growth are different. Frequently, we put those two in the same category; in thinking about them, I agree they are different, but both are necessary. Throughout my life, I have set many goals that were never achieved, as sometimes life happens, and I was unable to reach my...
As I meet with Montanans in every corner of our state, I hear the same concern often - taxes are too high. And they're right. Taxes are too high and need to be reined in. Two years ago, we enacted a fiscally responsible budget, and as a result, the state of Montana today has a historic budget surplus. Ultimately, that means you overpaid your taxes, and we're giving it back to you. When we released our Budget for Montana Families last November, we again held the line on spending, and we focused... Full story
A couple of weeks ago, on a Thursday, I had forgotten that it was the opening day of Headwaters Country Jam and made the mistake of traveling down Montana Highway 2 in the late afternoon. It was chaos as I tried to patiently wait for the long line of RVs to enter the site. While it was the opening day, there was already quite a crowd setting up their campsites, and numerous games of cornhole were already underway. Sitting in the line reminded me of the absolute joy of listening to live music and gave me the itch to get out and attend a concert....
By now, most Montana property owners have opened their 2023 Property Classification and Appraisal Notices, and many have been surprised by the Montana Department of Revenue's estimate of their property's market value. It's no secret that property in Montana has been selling at higher and higher prices, but the size of the increased values is astonishing to everyone - including me. These value increases and estimated 2023 General Taxes described on the notice - based upon the prior year's mills -... Full story
When I was little, my mom did a fantastic job incorporating many vegetables into dinner. While the veggies were undoubtedly good for me, there were a few that I could not stand. As is the case in many households across the country, I had to take everything that was on the dinner table and finish it. If there were my arch nemesis of Brussels sprouts or another hated foe in cauliflower, I would still have to finish everything on my plate. I was not allowed to take a tiny portion, either. I’ve heard horror stories of children who sat at the t... Full story
A spectacular picture recently appeared on social media of a young lady in Arizona. She was poised on the edge of a cliff emblazoned with sunset colors. Immediately her online followers clamored to know where the picture was taken, so "I can get one just like it." Turns out that it was taken on an off-trail route at the end of a potholed dirt road on the Navajo Nation, and required a permit to even enter the area. Also, I bet she did not climb to that precarious perch on that cliff wearing...
I know quite a few people who are very afraid of clowns, others who freak out over snakes, and a few that let out a blood-curdling shriek if they see even the most harmless spider. I am not a fan of the previously mentioned trio, either. When I was around 10, my grandma gave me a clown doll for my birthday, and thinking of it sitting in my room at night still freaks me out. I swear that thing would come alive at night and try to steal my breath. As much as I was not a fan of that clown, I would not say it was a phobia. It was a creepy gift for... Full story
Like every property owner I have talked to or who has contacted me, I’m in “Sticker Shock” over my recently received 2023 Classification & Appraisal Notice from MT DOR. Commissioners & Councilmembers in Municipalities and Gallatin County will soon be finalizing their annual budgets (August). MT DOR will soon be certifying and sending taxing jurisdictions (Municipalities and Gallatin County) the total taxable value of property in each jurisdiction (the first Monday in August which is August 7, 2023). Municipalities and Gallatin County use the f... Full story
With my residence directly off a state highway, I’m aware that there will always be more traffic in the summer months, especially from Friday to Sunday. Montana is such a beautiful place, and I understand Treasure State residents and out-of-state tourists increase the traffic on the road on their camping, or some other recreation, or to visit friends and family. One thing I don’t understand is the way some people choose to drive. While the speed limit on the highway I live off is usually 70, I live in a 45 zone. I generally see people going tha... Full story
Having owned a weekly paper in Montana for over a decade, there is certainly a routine in everyday life. There are always the same deadlines to be met, and while sometimes it might feel like the movie “Groundhog Day,” I enjoy what I do for a living and the structure it provides. The same can be said when I am in the kitchen, I have a routine, and because of this, we often eat many of the same things. I don’t necessarily think this is bad because everyone at the house seems to enjoy the rotation of meals. Every once in a while, I will get a lit... Full story
There is already a buzz in the air in Three Forks in anticipation of this week's NRA Rodeo and Rodeo Dayz celebration. The events that will take place later in the week are a fantastic way to highlight an incredible community and serve as a chance for residents to come together. It is great to see a packed crowd for both nights of the rodeo and large numbers at the parade and events on Saturday. There will undoubtedly be something to do for everyone, which is a plus to have at larger events. The... Full story
There are multiple times each summer I am reminded of the amazing times spent with my Grandparents, Jack, and Kathryne Smith. I have so many memories of the many wonderful vacations to Jackson, Wyoming, and Yellowstone National Park and the simpler times of just enjoying time together as a family in their backyard. Their house was always a focal point during the summer for impromptu gatherings where we would sit at their picnic table in the backyard. If there were a larger crowd, my grandpa... Full story
Looking for something unique to do on a Friday night in Three Forks? On July 7, residents will have the chance for a great night out that also affords the opportunity to give back to a worthwhile organization that preserves the area's history. The Three Forks Area Historical Society and High Desert Murder Mysteries are hosting "Class Reunions are Murder," an interactive murder mystery. Tickets for the event scheduled for 5:30 p.m. at the Methodist Church Annex are $35, which will include... Full story
I have an app on my phone that sends me a weekly report of how much time I spend using the electronic device that frequently feels like it is attached to my hip. While the reports usually depress me for a few minutes, there are some weeks when I want to make the minute drive to the Jefferson River and toss my phone in. Because I have been so horrified with my time tied to the tiny screen, I have recently dedicated a few weekends to not using the phone at all. It has certainly been rewarding, but also a bit alarming when I first reach over for... Full story
With the 4th of July next week, many residents have already purchased fireworks or will soon. Those looking to buy fireworks can also help out some great kids with two stands (Three Forks Market/Off U.S. 287) run by Three Forks Wrestling clubs. This is a hard-working group of kids, and the money they raise will help them compete in Montana and at events throughout the nation. While fireworks are a great time, it is also imperative to be safe to not only avoid injuries but not to start any fires. While the start of the summer had a lot of cooler... Full story
One of my first memories took place on the 4th of July. While the memory has always been vague and fades increasingly with time, it still has quite an impact. I cannot remember my age, but I couldn’t have been older than four. I remember being with my dad’s side of the family, and we had all gone a few miles out of town to let off fireworks. From what I can remember, we had purchased a ton of fireworks. We had plenty of things like sparklers to entertain the younger kids, and the adults had bought plenty of fun for them too. Early in the eve... Full story
I am a massive supporter of events that bring the community together. In Three Forks, this includes Rodeo Dayz, the Christmas Stroll, and the Farmer’s Market. Many don’t realize these events do not happen without the countless hours of volunteers whose time and effort truly make a difference. In last week’s Three Forks Voice, an article about the local chamber of commerce discussed the organization’s struggles with finding volunteers, and this is a problem that is happening nationwide. It would be awful to see events organized by the chamber... Full story
Earlier this month, I made the seven-hour trip to my hometown in Wyoming. While often the trip was filled with many activities, this time had a much more relaxed feel, and I did not leave my mom’s house often. It was a great time visiting with my mom and not trying to catch up with all of the friends I don’t see often. My mom’s dog, Bella, might have been a bit too aggressive, pestering me as I sat in the recliner, but I enjoyed my visit with her too. One of the best parts of my visits is eating at some of the establishments I grew up with...
I love robins as they are symbols of renewal and transformation, and just like spring, they represent new beginnings. And we certainly have our share of robins this year! When I woke up the other morning, I noticed four robins’ nests being built in an area I prefer they didn’t nest. So, I took a broom and swept the area to try and discourage the robins from building their nests. I cleaned up the area, and a short time later, I looked out the window and saw some robins picking up the residue left on our driveway to start rebuilding their nest. I...
Disclaimer: The views expressed in Op-Ed's published in the Three Forks Voice are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the publication. As careful stewards of your tax dollars and the essential services that they allow us to provide, the Gallatin County Commission is delighted to share some good news with you, our constituents and neighbors. Gallatin County has recently been awarded a "AA+" bond rating by Standard and Poors. This is excellent news for our organization,...
The transition into adulthood is complex, and it would be pretty safe to say that many people are not fully prepared for it. In fact, I’m still not sure if I ultimately figured out “adulting” and probably never will. When I decided to get my “first place,” I was excited but learned quickly that it came with a whole new set of responsibilities. I had lived in the dorms during college, but that was a much more structured environment, and everything was basically paid for outside of those teenage extracurricular activities. Once it was time to g...
Disclaimer: The views expressed in Op-Ed's published in the Three Forks Voice are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the publication. With the weather finally warming up here for spring time, I've been spending a lot of time out on my tractor finishing up planting. Every year, I plant my fields with crops like wheat, barley, peas, and millet. The days are long – Sharla and I start early in the morning and work late until the job is done – but as Montanans know, hard work...
A few days ago, the Three Forks High School conducted a ceremony for the Class of 2023. I wish all the graduates well in the future, whether moving on to college, the workforce, taking some time off, or not having a clue what they will do, which is perfectly fine too. While it certainly does not feel like yesterday, I cannot believe that I graduated from high school nearly 30 years ago, which makes me sad. Where did the time go? I spent a few minutes trying to reflect on my graduation day, but my recollection is probably not as straightforward... Full story
In Memory of: Bob Duncan, Damon Boyington and Coach Jerry LaRoque Dear Former TFHS Grads and community members, I am once again asking for donations for the Three Forks H.S. Memorial Scholarship Fund. The fund has provided scholarships to TFHS graduates since 2000 totaling over $8000. The fund balance is currently at $18000 and the yearly interest is providing scholarship funds around $800 per year. My goal has always been around $50,000 in funds that would provide 2 -$1000 Scholarships per year. I know this is a lofty goal but small donations... Full story
As we celebrate Memorial Day, May 29, 2023, let us not forget those who have died in service to our country. Our military men and women made many sacrifices to give us the freedom we now enjoy and to maintain it for over 200 years. I have been thinking about my Dad and the sacrifices he made during his lifetime. I am not clear on the date that my Father was drafted, but I believe he was drafted in 1940, as it was during the time he served through the CCCs. He was one of the young men who, while on Corregidor Island, was ready to depart for the...
