With several Lions Club members as our guests, as well as much of the Great Falls Northwestern Energy team, we heard a presentation from Northwestern Energy CEO Bob Rowe last week.

 

Bob spoke first of the special place Meadowlark Country Club has in his heart. It was there that Northwestern first announced its plans to purchase the hydroelectric dams in Montana and also there that the completion of the purchase was announced. 

 

During Bob's tenure leading Northwestern, he has emphasized performance based on the core values of investment in communities, partnerships, stewardship and sustainability. Northwestern Energy is easily the largest taxpayer in Montana, but its investments in the state go far beyond meeting its tax obligations.

 

Pointing to Rotarian and Northwestern Energy employee Heidi Hockett as an example, Bob pointed out that giving back to the community is a major emphasis of the company. Eighty percent of the employees are engaged in community service throughout Montana. Stewardship is also important. The dams are a valuable state asset and Northwestern is diligent about showcasing and protecting them. He encouraged us to participate in the Beyond the Dam family event on June 15.

 

For examples of its partnership efforts, Bob pointed to the many ways that Northwestern works with schools to provide more opportunities for students. Finally, as an example of its efforts to promote sustainable practices, Northwestern has been a primary funder for the inspection stations for invasive species in Montana.

 

In other news, Channing Hartelius informed the club that he has purchased Charlie and Nancy Russell's "honeymoon cottage" in Cascade and plans to keep it there and encourage visitation through a variety of activities. Brett Doney announced some new businesses setting up shop downtown, including a toy store, a craft butcher shop, and a golf-themed venue. Lacey Gallagher had the lucky 50-50 ticket, but her luck ran out there. The Queen of Hearts remained elusive and the pot, which was $201 last week, will continue to grow.

 

A great meeting with lots of interesting guests!