The Upcoming Glasgow Bond

Dear Editor,

My perspective on the upcoming bond:

We moved back to Glasgow four years ago. It wasn't in our plans to make this move but we were blown away by the school environment that has been established here (especially compared to other places), the supportive community, and the hometown pride.

Through foster care, we have given as many kids the best opportunity to thrive that we can. It is a big commitment for our family, but in the end more children have a chance to start their own lives and give back to our community also. For those of you who aren't able to provide that opportunity to our youth through fostering, coaching, etc., contributing to this facility allows you to provide them with caring coaches in a structured environment.

Scottie Field has provided children with a safe place to acquire endless life lessons, opportunities to grow, confidence, humility and countless other lessons that are needed to develop into well rounded adults. Memories, positive and negative, are etched into all of us who have competed or cheered in that facility over the past 40 years. I believe this is an opportunity for all of us to provide children of all backgrounds the skills and experiences they need growing up. If this passes, we will all have contributed and have had an effect on our children's future. Yes, it is definitely a sacrifice for most of us, including me, but the fact that Glasgow has historically done what is best for its community is the main reason I love it her and came back.

I want Scottie Field to provide these life lessons for all six of my children and all of the other children out there, too. Please see this as your opportunity to contribute to the bigger picture. An investment towards this project provides all of us with the chance to do our part. Come and watch as these children grow throughout their four years. Watch the boys sing the school song, not only after a victory but also after a crushing defeat. They are proud to have that opportunity in front of their home crowd, even if it is tough to swallow sometimes. If you had a frustrating experience in GHS athletics, those experiences have shaped who you are. I hope that you are a better, wiser person because of them and can now see the good that came from the negative experience. Sports uniquely provide these learning and growth opportunities. For our athletes to have these opportunities in a familiar and supportive environment is immeasurable. Thank you all for welcoming us back home. It's been amazing!

Sincerely,

Paul Yoakam

Glasgow, Mont.