News Briefs for Nov. 3, 2021

Markle's Ambulance Trust Honored

MARY KATE TIHISTA

FMDH FOUNDATION DIRECTOR

In 1989 C.D., R.D., and O.E. Markle established a memorial tribute for their parents Thomas H. and Florence Markle.

They wanted it to be something that would have lasting, life-changing effects for the community they worked so hard to make better.

Living in such a remote area, they saw and understood the need for excellent EMS.

With that knowledge, they created a fund to support Valley County licensed ambulance services.

At the time it was created, there were five ambulances in service: Fort Peck, Glasgow, Hinsdale, Lustre and Opheim.

Today there are only four, Fort Peck is not active.

Starting with an original investment of $20,000, today it is nearly $220,000.

All donations earmarked toward the Markle's Trust Fund, go towards the Markle family EMS vision.

The interest is divided every year between the four services. Each service can decide what their biggest need is.

The first distribution was made in 1992 and each service received $312. Today, the fund has given out close to $100,000 to our services in interest alone.

With a new ambulance barn built, we wanted to honor this memorial gift.

Thanks to Brianne and Dustin Brunelle, motorists can now drive by and see the new sign.

It is clear, the gift given so many years ago, is still essential.

The FMDH Foundation is proud to work with Dick, Jack, and Tom, custodian to the Markle Ambulance Trust.

Fedas for the FMDH Foundation

MARY KATE TIHISTA

FMDH FOUNDATION DIRECTOR

The FMDH Foundation is honored to announce that Gerald "Jerry" & Audrey Feda, dear friends and patrons to the Foundation, have left a generous gift.

Jerry recently passed away at the age of 94 in April, while Audrey left us in 2019 at the age of 89.

Jerry served on the FMDH Foundation Board of Directors and was a huge advocate towards the Foundation's mission, especially during the golf tournament.

Even after his board service had ended, he would still come out in the mornings and watch the start of the tournament and visit with us all. They were dedicated community members, that always had a helping hand and a good laugh to share.

Embedded in our foundation is the Feda's fortitude to make our community a better, stronger, and healthier place for generations to come.

We will miss their friendship, but never forget their generosity. As some of the core Foundation supporters, we will honor what their gift is intended to do: continue to make sure Valley County has the best rural healthcare available so your loved ones get the care they deserve.

The Foundation is extremely grateful for this wonderful gift and Gerald & Audrey's name will be moved up a tier to the 'Community Building' status on the Foundation's "Wagon Train Wall of Honor," which is donor's who have given over $50,000.

Dueling Pianos

On November 10, the Friends of the Valley County Swimming Pool Committee will host a Dueling Pianos event at the Glasgow Civic Center.

This is a fundraiser for the new swimming pool.

Organizers said they appreciate the support the community has given them in the past and continue to give us.

So far, the committee has raised over $1.5 million towards the new pool. It needs more than twice that amount to reach its final goal.

As part of piano night, the committee will host a live auction at the conclusion.

Auction Items Include:

• A quilt from Lenore Durell

• A painting from Frank Vandall

• A barbecue dinner prepared by Sam Waters

• A gift basket from Robyn's Nest

• A gift basket from JR's Party Store

• A gift basket from Byrdie Larsen

The committee welcomes additional donated items to add to the auction items. To donate items, contact Rod Karst or Jory Casterline.

Volunteers also are sought to help Lisa Koski put together a basket comprised of gift certificates from area businesses.

Koski would need gift certificates before Nov. 10.

Block of Bucks Deadline Early

The deadline for Block of Bucks is earlier this year.

Watch for the Glasgow Soroptimist member, Glasgow Student Council members, and other volunteers on Dec. 3 as they will be collecting donations for the annual Block of Bucks.

Valley County children from infants to 17-years-of-age will be able to shop for much needed winter clothing because of this annual fundraiser.

Registration begins Nov. 8 and ends on Nov. 19 Sign-up at the Soroptimist Thrift Store, 227 4th St S.

Call or text Teresa Tade at 406-263-4794 if you have signed up, but for some reason cannot attend the shopping spree.

The children's shopping will take place Saturday, Dec. 4, and volunteers are needed to assist families as they shop on this special day.

If you can help shop or have any questions, please call Linda Sundby at 480-5339.

Donations are needed, encouraged and appreciated. Donations may be mailed prior to the collection day to Soroptimists of Glasgow, Box 961, Glasgow, MT 59230.