Before you vote, watch for bears

My Grandma Bertha, one of six Flathead generations, often shared wisdom gained throughout her 100-plus years. One “wisdom” we were always to remember: “Ya always wanna know where the bear lies in the buckwheat.” That’s wise advice for us Americans who are privileged to vote for our future from a virtual field (buckwheat) of candidates (maybe bears).

It is wise to shine light on candidates who portend to represent us Flathead folk. In that bright light is Stacey Schnebel, candidate for our Flathead County Commissioner. What Stacey is, and what Stacey is not, are important questions best answered by our own analyses. The following commentary comes from many who have personally witnessed Stacey in action throughout months and years, including myself.

What Stacey is: When asking about Stacey, the answers describe her as one who demonstrates consideration to all people by respectfully listening with fairness. Stacey is noted throughout the community for representing the qualities needed to handle multiple duties and challenges with abundant energy, courage, self-control and resolution.

Reference is made to her having the bearing and wisdom of an “old soul.” It is often stated that Stacey focuses with clear vision while searching for solutions to challenges. She is well known for collaborating and energetically organizing businesses, events and activities within her community. There seems to be no doubt about her abilities to research, gather opinion, think carefully and make sound judgments about matters of community.

Overall, what we learn about Stacey is that she demonstrates the qualities and experience required of representative management, as well as the experience to lead our county in a cautious and sensible manner. She is far more than a scripted sound bite. Summed up — Stacey is an American statesman.

What Stacey is not: Whomever one asks, there is not the slightest mention of her being aloof, arrogant, judgmental, extreme, hard-nosed, offensive, berating, belligerent, unoriginal, pointless, self-serving, nor handled by others — all of which are not to be tolerated in our public representation. Listen, read and watch for bears

Cal Scott, of Columbia Falls, is the Flathead County Commissioner for the North Valley.