Community

Christmas Trees at the White House have a lengthy history that has changed with the times. Currently, a rotation of states supplies the annual tree, and one year a former Alder resident chopped down the tree meant for the Capitol Building.

Since freshman year of college, Landon Dybdal’s goal was to become the Chief Executive Officer for a hospital before he turned 30. 

He accomplished that goal in Jordan, Montana’s Garfield County Health Center at 26. Two years later, Dybdal moved to Sheridan, Montana, to fill the CEO position at Ruby Valley Medical Center. 

Holidays can trigger a variety of emotions, from contentment to stress. If already predisposed, the cycle of loneliness may feel even more isolating this time of year.

Twenty-four veterans — from all branches of the military and who served in a variety of different eras — will be honored for their service with Quilts of Valor during Sheridan School’s annual Veteran’s Day tea on Nov. 11. 

Several white signs and quilts lined the walls of the Sheridan Senior Center during its grand opening Oct. 15. The signs acknowledged donors who helped make the new facility possible, and members sewed the quilts.

Mental health affects everyone, regardless of gender or occupation. Suicide rates are higher in rural America and Montana leads the nation in number of suicides. The isolation and job factors associated with agricultural work in rural Montana, and the stigma tied to identity, makes seeking out help difficult. 

Sunday marked the beginning of the 79th National Newspaper Week. The focus this year is “Think F1rst, Know Your 5 Freedoms.” This is referring to the five freedoms listed in the First Amendment: freedom of press, speech, religion, assembly and to petition the government.

About 450 Montana FFA and 4-H students competed in the 48th annual Ruby Valley Invitational at the Morse Land Co. Arena in Sheridan Sept. 24.