Mountrail County Promoter - Columnists

Get Out And Vote
The General Election is just around the corner with polls open in Mountrail County on Tuesday, Nov. 5 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. A list of voting centers appears elsewhere in this week’s paper. For those who usually vote in the city of Stanley, the polling place for this election will be at the Mountrail County South Complex instead of in one of the schools. Voters can vote at any of the voting locations throughout the county.
While I know that there are a few uncontested races on the ballot in this election, there are also many races that will see voters determine who will represent them in the White House, US House of Representatives, US Senate, and multiple state and county positions. There are also five statewide measures for voters to decide on, as well as local and county measures.
Voting, to me, is a personal decision. I find myself struggling sometimes as I look at the candidates. I’m a firm believer in basing my vote on the candidate and what they stand for. I like to believe that I do my due diligence in researching the candidates and issues. That can be difficult as you look at so much negative campaigning. I really want a candidate to tell me why they are the right choice, not what they find so “wrong” about their opponent.
That being said, I will exercise my right to vote next Tuesday.
I’m also a firm believer that if you do not go to the polls and exercise your right to vote you should not complain later if you are unhappy with the results. Over and over, I’ve heard people say, “I’m just one vote. It doesn’t matter.” That’s not true. Every vote matters and every vote counts. Close races are common and if more voters take that attitude, it absolutely matters.
Meanwhile, if like everyone else, you are tired of the negativity and personal attacks that seem to surround elections now more than ever, I want to leave you with this thought I saw more than one of my friends share on Facebook over the past couple of weeks. It is attributed to trulyyoursjen.com.
“We may not vote the same.
We may not think the same.
We may not see the world the same.
We may not hold the same beliefs.
But that doesn’t mean you aren’t worthy of my kindness.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still be treated with respect.
In the coming weeks, let’s think before we comment. Let’s remember our humanity.
And try to love each other as we have been called to. We are all in this together.
Let’s love each other well.”
These are words to consider in the next week before we head to the polls and in the weeks to come as we may or may not agree with the decisions reached by the voters.

I have several classmates that I still keep in touch with, some just with Facebook. One of those classmates, who lives in South Dakota, received a letter from someone calling themselves a neighbor. With tongue in cheek, they thanked her for having the bravery and conviction to put a sign in her yard. They then called her a “braindead piece of garbage” and suggested she move to a different country or state so as not so spread her “delusional mindset further here”.
All I can say is wow. Of course, they mailed the letter, did not sign it and did not include a return mail address. Apparently, like many on Facebook, they felt brave when able to stay anonymous. Following her comments on the post, she has decided she will not be bullied and continues to speak with her voice.
We need to do better people! We are destroying our families and friendships over people who couldn’t care less about you individually. We need to find a way to be able to respect each other, even if we disagree.

Halloween Activities Abound
With Halloween on Thursday, houses are decorated around town to welcome trick or treaters. If you are looking for other activities, there are some options on tap.
The Stanley Commercial Club will be hosting the annual Trail of Treats on Thursday, Oct. 31 from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. A full list of participating businesses are listed elsewhere in this week’s paper.
The Holy-Ween event returns to the Stanley High School gym on Thursday, Oct. 31 from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. with Bible themed activity stations. This event is open to preschool through sixth grade students. This free event is sponsored by Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Catholic Church.
Local businesses and churches are combining efforts for the return of the Fall Spectacular also on Halloween at the Mountrail County Fair and South Complex Buildings. This event expanded two years ago and will run from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. with activities in both buildings.
The Fair Building will be host to Trunk or Treat in the arena. Anyone is welcome to set up in the arena and hand out candy. Those wishing to hand out candy are asked to be at the Fair Building between 4:15 and 4:45 p.m. so they can set up, decorate their vehicle/area and be ready to start handing out candy at 5:30 p.m. Participants are asked to stick to family-friendly décor.
Cashwise will be serving food. There will be a NERF black light area, carnival games, music and more.
The Fall Spectacular is free to attend. Free will donations will be collected for the Stanley Cheer team. Costumes are encouraged for this event that is designed as fun for the whole family.
While your children are out and about trick or treating, try to make a stop at the Bethel Home and Rosen Place. They are welcoming trick or treaters from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. The Bethel Home was always a stop for us when Amanda and her friends were little. It puts a big smile on those residents faces to see the kids all dressed up. A stop there between any of the events listed would be a great idea!