Neighboring

<blockquote>Jerry Johnson, a political scientist at Montana State University, has studied what he calls "the out-of-stater-newcomer thing" for more than a decade.<br />n <br />n"It's really easy to blame the out-of-staters for putting up 'No Trespassing' signs and wanting privacy, which is why they buy the big holdings here," Johnson said.<br />n <br />nBut he said the conflict cuts both ways, with some longtime residents snootily maintaining that "you're somehow more legitimate if you're fourth generation than if you're here for the fourth year."<br />n <br />n"There's an awful lot of jealousy" of these rich newcomers, "but an awful lot of them are well-intentioned," he said. Most "really do want to fit into Montana."</blockquote><br />n<br />nHe has every right to do with his money as he wants, but a letter <a href="http://www.billingsgazette.com//index.php?id=1&display=rednews/2005/05/11/build/state/57-poking-fun.inc" target="_new">like this</a> only inflames local prejudices. I have to agree with this guy, it's a two-way street and both sides need to make an effort. Most people find a little effort too hard though.<br />n<br />nI'm as bad, I have an out of state neighbor that I don't get along with too well and it ain't going to change. There is a story behind why I don't like the guy but it's not appropriate for a family oriented blog. <br />n<br />n<b>A bad neighbor is as great a calamity as a good one is a great advantage. Hesiod</b>