Letters to the Editor: Thom MacLean & Samantha French
Share
Tweet
Dear BCJ readers,
In October, Blaine County Museum lost our board chairman, Stuart “Scott” MacKenzie. Since his passing, we have received many notes of condolence, and the museum board asked me to share the following message sent to us by former BCM board member, Thom MacLean.
Blaine County Museum Board and Staff,
I am so sorry to learn of Scott’s passing. He was such a wonderful gentleman with a quick wit, a gracious manner, and a charming smile.
It was an honor to serve on the Blaine County Museum board with him – and to learn from him. One of his most important lessons was that people with passion and purpose can do incredible things for their community. Scott taught that by example. This museum, the wildlife museum, the battlefield, the people, the school, and the community – they all meant so much to Scott, and he dedicated so much of his time and energy to them.
Scott made Chinook a better place, and he made us all better people.
Go Griz, Scott. Go Grizz…
All my best,
Thom MacLean
I knew Scott for only a little over a year, since I was hired as museum director back in March of 2019, and I had limited opportunities to work with him directly or benefit from his vast expertise. That said, his obvious passion for enriching this community has left me deeply inspired. His contributions are an example of what can be achieved when we choose to be stewards of our cultural resources. Time, energy, and heart really do make a difference. What a remarkable lesson to be learned, particularly by local youth. Take pride in your home. You have the power to preserve and share what makes it special – and to recognize beauty and value where others may not.
During these tough months of the pandemic, it is more important than ever to exercise gratitude for the wonderful things we already have. Gratitude is medicine. Thanks to Scott, we all have much to be grateful for, and aspire to.
Respectfully yours,
Samantha French, Blaine County Museum Director
If you would like to make a donation to the museum in Scott’s memory, BCM recently established the Stuart C. MacKenzie Memorial Fund in his honor. We look forward to using these funds to commemorate his work and continue to bring life to his vision.
