Governor Martz To Hold 2nd Capital for A Day in Hamilton

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 17, 2001
Contact: Betti Hill
406/444-5516

Helena, MT - Governor Judy Martz has announced that her second "Capital For a Day" will be held in Hamilton on September 19, 2001. As a part of this event, Governor Martz will proclaim Hamilton as the Official Capital for the State of Montana.

"We are excited about traveling to Hamilton to address local ideas, issues and concerns," said Governor Martz. "We have an incredible opportunity in this state to bring government to individual communities. This not only helps Hamilton residents, but it also helps us to remember the needs of Montanans making a living at the local level."

The Governor explained that the reason Hamilton was selected as the second site for the Capital For a Day is twofold. First is in honor of the late Senator Dale Berry, who passed away in May of this year.

"Senator Berry was an exemplary leader in the Senate and on the basketball court," Governor Martz said. "I believe it is fitting to bring the Capital to the home of Dale Berry and look forward to seeing his wife Dorothy who succeeded him in the Senate."

In addition, Governor Martz would like to honor the people of the Hamilton area, who persevered throughout the devastating fires in the summer of 2000. Part of the day's events may include a firsthand opportunity to observe ongoing reclamation efforts as a result of last year's fires.

"A number of our state agencies have been working very closely with local residents to clean up after the fires," said Governor Martz. "It's overwhelming to recognize the extent of damage done in this area. But it's also incredible to see this community pull together to support each other throughout the fires and afterward."

The Governor and department directors will also visit with a number of local businesses throughout the day to gain an understanding of economic development needs in Hamilton and the Bitterroot Valley.

Every state agency will participate in the program, so that constituents who have concerns or issues to raise with regard to a particular agency will be able to have time to discuss their problems one-on-one.

"We were excited about the success of this event in Laurel," Governor Martz said. "It will be great to see the diversities and similarities in issues that are raised in Hamilton. Montana is such a diverse state, and we need to understand the impacts of the decisions we make in Helena at every level and in every community."

The next Capital for a Day will be held in Sidney on October 17.

A tentative schedule is attached, and a detailed agenda will be available early next week.

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