The elections are finally over! Montana re-elected the Democratic governor, Flathead County Commissioner race is decided with former Sheriff Dupont being the new Commissioner and many state and federal decisions were made. It is a challenging time to be a politician and I can only hope that those elected are up to such a challenge.

   Snow on the slopes! A few flakes have fallen on the valley floor and the slopes of Big Mountain are visibly white.  Temps have been mild with a hard frost just occurring this week. Hard to say what the winter will be like but it is on the way. Snow drift fences are popping up to keep drifting snow off main roads. I am planning my Christmas lights on the driveway trees. Shorter days mean more time to get cozy in front of the fire and read a good book. The horse's coats are thick in preparation for more cold days. The mountain air is refreshing and clean. After being out of the country for a couple of weeks, it was wonderful to step off the plane into the clean smell of home.

   Kalispell and Whitefish are both searching for new City Managers. Whitefish has narrowed their search to 6 applicants from around the country. Kalispell is just beginning the search. Both cities have temporary city managers in the interim.

   More updates on the way next week.