We are lucky to live in such a wonderful place

In these hard times, with fear, sickness, controversy and discord weaving itself into our everyday lives, I want to take a moment to remind my community of how lucky we are to live in such a great place. When the call for help goes out in Boundary County, people gather, support, encourage, donate, and participate. You have all fought alongside me in this battle with cancer. I don’t know if this is true of all “small town America” but I’ve experienced it firsthand in my hometown.

The list is so long, including family, friends, local businesses, and folks I’ve never met, who found it in their hearts to donate items, bid on items or help with the organization of the online fundraiser auction. I am overwhelmed by the heartfelt generosity. From Oregon to Montana; from Washington; Southern Idaho to the Panhandle; and into Canada; so many reached out in support for me in this battle for my very life. I know who every one of you are. I’ve read each and every name and business. The list is lengthy but every single name means so much to me. The folks out there praying for me make me feel humbled and eternally grateful.

I wanted to take this opportunity to remind my friends and neighbors that in spite of all that is going on in the world today, we still live in the last best place on earth. It truly is God’s country! Keep smiling at strangers, holding that door and letting someone ahead of you in line. Each thing we do, no matter how small, can have enormous consequences.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

MIKE VOGL

Bonners Ferry