Young motocross supporters a shining example of democratic process

Tuesday night, July 6th, children and their families formed a rally to support a Motocross Park at Montana Raceway Park. They were preparing to speak before the Flathead Count Board of Adjustment. The children were dressed in safety gear and motocross outfits. Some carried their trophies. They had been told this was an important meeting and they should act accordingly. The children, ages 4 and higher, lined up in the back of the meeting room by 6:45 p.m. waiting for their turn to speak. The room was very warm (hot) due to all the attendees. Standing and waiting could not have been easy for these bundles of energy. I can not say how proud and amazed I was at the children's patience. You did not hear a peep from then as they quietly waited for their turn. These children surely understood the democratic process. They could not wait to make their voices heard. It was very disappointing at 8:30 p.m. when the comments were postponed to Aug. 3. The children behaved so well, even though they were sad and disappointed. We need to say thank you to the children and their families for respecting the democratic process. I was almost brought to tears as I watched the children, for there surely is hope in the future of the United States with children like these children, who have learned that their voices are respected and important. What a lesson and example they gave to all of us. Thank you children and thank you to the parents, grandparents, teachers and friends who have taught these children the democratic process. They may be little guys and gals today pursuing their love of motorsports, but they are our senators, congressmen, governors and mayors of tomorrow. I salute the children of the Flathead Valley.

Michelle Siderius, Marie and Aaron AuClaire

Co-owners, Montana Raceway Park