Letters to the Editor; Revamp P Hill

I grew up in a home at the base of the P Hill in the 1950’s/60’s.  My memories of this landmark letter “P” are etched in my mind.  I can remember seeing the “P” every day of my 12 years of school in Plains and driving east to Plains in those days one would see was that famous “P”, stark against a brown or green hillside.  Sadly, I looked upon the “P” hill as I came into Plains several months ago from my home in Missoula, and was shocked at the extremely pathetic “P”.  What a disgrace for the town of Plains and the high school!  The organizing committee for the 50th anniversary (Class of 1964) also commented on this very poor representation of our town/school and felt something needed to be done.

We recognize that private property may be a factor and/or the school had washed it’s hands of the “P”.  However, why do most towns around the western part of the state boldly present a letter for their school?  We know that the “P” was nearly destroyed by a neighboring town’s juveniles.  May we propose a solution for the school/town.  We are VERY proud of Plains High School, that produced thousands of students who graduated and became productive citizens, thanks to the solid families living in Plains, and particularly the very strong school staff that developed those minds.  Let’s show our school pride once again.  Who wants to join us in a project to create a concrete “P” that once again will grace the hill.  Many towns have done this because of destruction and/or difficulties in maintenance.  At our reunion on July 19, we will be talking about the “P” hill and will begin a process of creating a plan of action.  Who in Plains would be willing to help design this letter, or provide materials, or labor? Tentatively, we are looking at the possibility of a fall project.  Of course there will need to be agreements made with the land owners and the school,  but we believe this can be done!

We ask the community of Plains to begin productive discussions about the “P”.  If you are interested in this project and feel you could be an active participant in the construction, you can chat with any of the alumni attending the 50th reunion on Saturday July 19.  My memories of Plains are so vivid and especially the “can do” attitude.  Let’s pull together and build a new “P” that is the pride of the great town of Plains!

Merle Johnston

Class of 1964

Plains High School