Babe Ruth

On behalf of Babe Ruth baseball, I would like to thank and commend the Glacier Babe Ruth League and the communities of Bigfork, Columbia Falls and Whitefish for an outstanding job in hosting the Montana State 13/15 Tournament in Columbia Falls and Whitefish on July 21-25.

Approximately 150 players and coaches, plus hundreds more family members and friends, visited the North Valley and were treated to a first-class event.

This doesn't happen without knowledgeable and energetic volunteers, such as James LaFontaine, of Bigfork, the Sapa family in Columbia Falls, Kelly Talsma, of Whitefish, and their leader, league president Ray Queen, who at times resembles the proverbial bull in a china shop but gets things done.

From opening ceremonies featuring Mac Bledsoe and a wayward skydiver caught in Thursday evening's storm, through games broadcasted by Bee Broadcasting and announced by the professional Benny Bee, to an exciting championship game epitomizing the agony and ecstasy of sport, memories were made and lessons in life were learned.

Thanks to the volunteers, who are too numerous to mention. Babe Ruth Baseball does not exist without your energies and your commitment.

Bruce McEvoy

Assistant state

commissioner

Whitefish