Amtrak wreck proves north- central Montana best place to live

There is no doubt north-central Montana is the best place to live. This past week was a true testament of what a giving and caring community we all live in and how we can band together in a disaster.

When Amtrak derailed just west of Joplin there was an outpouring of help from every county within a hundred miles. Emergency responders came from Blaine, Hill, Chouteau, Cascade, Toole, Glacier, Pondera, and my home county of Liberty. These emergency responders have been trained for this, were ready, and did a great job of managing the derailment scene.

Between the Liberty County Community Center, CJI School, and Liberty County Hospital, the passengers involved were well taken care of and all of their needs were met. Many businesses, service groups, and volunteers stepped forward with food, blankets, and offers of help. There cannot be enough said to thank the neighbors helping neighbors and the community helping strangers.

This definitely confirms why we all live where we do. Three folks lost their lives and five remain in the hospital. Their families continue to need our thoughts and prayers. It is never easy to be away from home when life throws a curve. I know the compassion you have all expressed is more than welcomed.

As your senator, I am proud to represent this part of Montana and Montanans as a whole.

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Sen. Russ Tempel, R-Chester, can be emailed at [email protected]