The syndrome that affects us all

As a journalist, I sit through an ungodly amount of public meetings to report back to you, dear reader, about the many intricate, nuanced — ahh, who am I kidding — boring aspects of local government.

As a result, I like to think I stay more informed on issues than the average Joe. I also like to think that I, having nothing invested in these meetings, gain a certain perspective from listening to the opposing viewpoints offered on a variety of topics.

Unfortunately, what I have seen from every side is a variation of this: Not in my backyard.

Neighbors may have no problem with a development. Just not here. Homeowners may respect the job truck drivers do. Just not on the road by their house. And — perhaps one of the most egregious offenses in my mind — the community recognizes the necessity for affordable housing. As long as it's not located in that community.

In my admittedly modest experience, resort communities tend to be some of the worst offenders in this mentality and Bigfork is neither completely innocent nor completely guilty of this charge.

With important issues like the potential sale of 440-acres in Woods Bay by the DNRC and the push to ban trucks on Highway 35 looming in front of the community, I urge you to take a step back and take a long look.

Creativity will be key to finding a solution in both of these situations, and imperative if we are to not only solve the problem, but avoid dumping it into someone else's yard.

That's all from our high school staff

For the last few months, the Eagle has run a series of pages produced by the staff of the Norse Code, the student newspaper at Bigfork High School. Today's edition is the last one from this group of kids, and this particular page — focused largely on the outgoing seniors — was done entirely by juniors.

The vast majority of the stories and photos published in their space have been by turns insightful and funny. One letter writer was inspired, and it should be said that this editor was too.

It's our impression so far, and our hope, that the Eagle hasn't been the only benefactor from this newly formed partnership and we hope that come fall, another group of bright young writers and photographers will deem our pages worthy of their talents.

—Alex Strickland