01-11-23 issue

Lake County withdraws from Public Law 280

By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

LAKE COUNTY — On Tuesday, Jan. 3, the Lake County Commissioners voted to withdraw the county from Public Law 280.

PL280 is an agreement with the State of Montana passed in 1964 to conduct law enforcement and provide other services on the Flathead Reservation.

According to Commissioner Bill Barron, the meeting minutes from that time indicate the county commissioners were told there would be no impact on Lake County, and that was the reason they agreed. In the last nearly 60 years, however, the costs of PL280 for the county and its taxpayers have increased to millions of dollars per year.

The commission met initially about the issue in a Dec. 9 meeting and began the two-part process to withdraw with a gap between meetings for public input. A significant decision, Commissioner Barron said at the time they wanted to make sure the public could weigh in on such an important matter.

County residents’ support for the withdrawal was shown at the Jan. 3 meeting as all who spoke were in favor of the withdrawal. One attendee even made the case that PL280 should never

have gone into effect at all due to a lack of an official seal, much like a notary stamp, on the original document.

The process of withdrawing from PL280 will be a monthslong endeavor with an effective date of May 26, after the legislative session is over. According to the resolution document,

“the Board has recently learned that one or more bills are being drafted, and are likely to be introduced at the 2023 Session of the Montana Legislature; the aforementioned bills are designed to, and may satisfactorily address the funding problems faced by the County; and the Board desires to allow the Leg-

islature adequate time to consider and address the issue.” This wording and the long timeline are both meant to give the State of Montana legislature time to work with the county to address the situation. Should they come to an agreement, the commissioners could amend the resolu-

tion to stay in PL280.

Commissioners commented that this is part of a twopronged approach they are taking to get a response from the State, as they also have a lawsuit underway addressing the State’s lack of funding allocated to the agreement. According to a statement put out by Lake County, although the State bound itself to assume criminal jurisdiction under PL280, it has effectively shifted the cost of this obligation onto the county. Though the wording of the bill states, “the state shall reimburse Lake

County for assuming criminal jurisdiction under this section annually to the extent funds are appropriated by the Legislature,” according to the lawsuit the state has not appropriated a meaningful sum for this purpose, reducing the amount of appropriation to $1. Should Lake County conclude their withdrawal, the State of Montana will be entirely responsible for the costs of enforcing PL280, including establishing a police and investigative force, finding room in or establishing a jail, and all the costs that come with housing prisoners. Lake County’s existing infrastructure to handle these measures results

Ferndale area death investigation underway

LAKE COUNTY — On Dec. 28, at about 1 p.m., the Lake County Sheriff’s Office received a call requesting a welfare check at a residence in the Ferndale area. Responding deputies investigated and determined the homeowner was deceased and that there had been a fire in the home. Lake County Detectives and Deputy Coroners were called to investigate and determined that the fire was contained to one room of the home where the decedent was located.

The deceased was identified as John P. Stokes, 71, of Bigfork. Preliminary investigation identified the fire and death occurred sometime in the morning hours of Dec. 13. Consultation with the State Fire Marshall and State Medical Examiner indicates the fire was accidental in nature and caused the death of Stokes. The matter is still under investigation, and this is the only information being released at this time. The Sheriff’s Office extends our condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Stokes.

in approximately $4 million for county taxpayers each year. Should the State take over PL280, they would have to pay to establish the needed infrastructure themselves, which the commissioners said would result in much higher costs for the state than simply allocating appropriate funds to the county.

The motion to enact Resolution 22-42 to withdraw from PL280 passed unanimously among the commissioners.

“We either need to be funded or we need to get out of it,” Commissioner Barron commented. “The bottom line is right now we’re just in a situation where it’s not work-

ing … My goal in passing this is to get the attention of the legislature, to show them that we’re serious and to get us some funding … The bottom line is this is a public safety issue. That’s what this is truly all about and we need to look after our citizenry and their safety and to me this is what this resolution is about.”

“The county is continuing down a path that will ultimately determine whose responsibility it is to pay the ever-increasing costs of Public Law 280,” Commissioner Gale Decker stated. “The governor has shown no interest in meeting with us to discuss and possibly resolve (the issues) …

Our office has had numerous people inquire as to what impact a withdrawal by the county will have on our citizens, and the answer is we don’t know, as this is a first for the state … Long term implications of withdrawal will not be evident for some time.”

“I’m really saddened that the governor of the State of Montana hasn’t sat down with Lake County and at least tried to have a dialogue on where we’re headed, why we’re headed there,” Commissioner Steve Stanley said. “I think the State could be a huge player in this and in court is not the place to make those decisions.” vj

Open house to present draft US 93 Ninepipe Corridor study

News from MDT

LAKE COUNTY — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) has developed a study of the US Highway 93 Ninepipe corridor to evaluate the feasibility of improvements to the Ninepipe segment. The 4.5-mile study corridor extends from Gunlock Road to Brooke Lane near the Ninepipe and Kicking Horse Reservoirs.

Environmental documentation, completed in 2008, identified a preferred alternative and determined it would improve traffic flow and safety for vehicles and pedestrians while minimizing impacts to natural resources. The current feasibility study evaluated the benefits, impacts, challenges, costs, and overall feasibility associated with the preferred alternative and two modified

2 - January 11, 2023 Valley Journal

concepts that were developed based on current information for the corridor. The study is a collaborative process between MDT, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), resource agencies, stakeholders, and the public.

MDT is hosting an in-person open house meeting to provide an overview of the study process and summarize findings from the study. At the open house meeting, attendees will have an opportunity to view exhibits, speak with study representatives, ask questions, and provide comments about the study. The event will be held at the Ninepipes Lodge Banquet Room at 69286 Highway 93 on Wednesday, Jan. 11, from 4-7 p.m.

Additionally, MDT is hosting a virtual informational

event on Thursday, Jan. 12, from 12-1 p.m., which will include an overview of the same information provided at the in-person event. To attend the virtual event, registration is required at: https://www.mdt. mt.gov/pubinvolve/us93ninepipe/

An important part of properly planning for future projects is partnering with the community. The Montana Department of Transportation welcomes the public to provide comments on the draft study, now available at: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/ pubinvolve/US93Ninepipe/ Comments may be submitted online at: http://www. mdt.mt.gov/contact/comment-form.aspx or by contacting Vicki Crnich at 406444-7653 or vcrnich@mt.gov. Please note that comments are for the US 93 Ninepipe Corridor Feasibility Study.

News from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office

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4 - January 11, 2023

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MARTIN HENSEL PHOTO

House rules package passes key hurdle

Proponents say the amended rules would promote fairness and open debate. They could also advantage Republican dissenters and Democrats.

News from Arren Kimbel-Sannit Montana Free Press

MONTANA — An amended set of rules to govern the Montana House of Representatives passed Wednesday afternoon after heated debate within the Republican caucus.

The new set of rules, in addition to making a number of technical changes, will lower the number of votes required to pull tabled bills out of committee and bring them to the floor for debate from 60 to 55. These “blast motions” are procedural tools that have in the past allowed factions of the GOP to team up with minority-party Democrats to revive — and in some cases pass — key pieces of legislation.

The rules will also require bills heard in select committees — issue-focused ad hoc committees appointed by legislative leadership — to be subsequently referred to the Legislature’s standing committees. At this stage, the change will primarily impact a select committee dedicated to election law reforms helmed by Republican hardliners who have promoted theories of election fraud.

The rules resolution passed

on a tight vote in the House Rules Committee Tuesday, and then by a 57-42 vote on the House floor Wednesday.

“I believe that these rules provide fairness and the quality of debate our constituents expect of us,” House Rules Committee Chair Casey Knudsen, R-Malta, said on the floor Wednesday.

The new threshold would mean that about a third of the 68-member House Republican caucus would need to vote with Democrats to blast a bill to the floor.

“A third of a majority caucus wanting to hear a bill is justification for each of us in this body to be able to hear and hold debate on a bill,” said Rep. Ed Buttrey, R-Great Falls, who brought the amendment in the House Rules Committee Tuesday.

The change would also make it more difficult for leadership to quash bills by assigning them to so-called kill committees.

“In the past, bills have been referred to committees for the express purpose of preventing them from reaching the House floor for debate,” said Rep. David Bedey, R-Hamilton, a vocal supporter of the rule change. “In other

instances, committee chairmen have effectively killed bills by scheduling them for committee hearings too late to meet transmittal deadlines. Both of these practices impede the process of fair and open debate and in extreme cases have been used to coerce legislators to take actions contrary to their principles or the interests of their constituents.”

The blast motion threshold has varied over the years: two-thirds, three-fifths, the number of majority lawmakers, a simple majority (the margin required in the Senate). Rep. Jennifer Carlson, R-Manhattan, argued that the changes have been calculated to benefit Republican dissenters and the minority party.

“The recent history lesson that we just received … fails to inform you of how that number changes every year based on what number is required to add to the minority party to get to a majority on the floor,” she said. “Last session, we had this exact same discussion — it’s just that it was a different number. It was a small change from 67 to 60. But don’t worry, it’s just a small change. But now the

numbers are different so we have to do different mental mathematical gymnastics to get to 55.”

Collectively, the rule changes mark a victory for comparatively moderate Republicans willing to cross the aisle for votes on big issues, a loose group sometimes known as the Conservative Solutions Caucus. That underlying dynamic generated sharp criticism from other Republicans, who painted a picture of a shadowy cabal working to subvert the will of voters who sent a Republican supermajority to Helena in November.

“Every single one of you knows exactly what’s going on right now,” said an animated Rep. Jed Hinkle, R-Belgrade. “These rules are being used to manipulate this system and empower a small group of people by using the minority party for the votes.”

The new select committee rule would prevent the election integrity committee from drafting and passing legislation on its own. It would not require the standing committee to hold another hearing on bills emerging from the select committee.

Hinkle, who unsuccessfully brought an amendment

on the floor to reverse the change, said it would mean that lawmakers on standing committees would vote on bills for which they haven’t heard full testimony and debate. Placing a bill in double committees impedes its path to the floor, he continued.

He also argued that supporters of the rules package are espousing contradictory principles — that they want to make it easier to bring bills they like to the floor while also obstructing legislation they don’t favor.

“Here’s what gamesmanship is: Let’s just trot over to this side and lower that blast motion so we can make sure we get our key bills out, the ones we’ve made deals on, and then nip on over to this side over here and put more restrictions on bills I don’t want to come out of committee,” he said, voice raised and visibly animated. “Because the Speaker has already created a select committee with the Senate … and that committee is tasked with doing a specific thing on a specific issue. And I would venture to say that these representatives here, it’s an issue that they don’t agree with.”

Bedey told Montana Free Press after the vote he didn’t see the contradiction.

“I think the suggestion that there’s a conflict or a contradiction in my positions concerning blast motions and concerning the progression of bills through select committees is like comparing apples to oranges,” he said. “In the case of blast motions, we are simply asserting a mechanism

“

I think the suggestion that there’s a conflict or a contradiction in my positions concerning blast motions and concerning the progression of bills through select committees is like comparing apples to oranges.

- Rep. David Bedey

by

which a bill has a possibility to come to the floor for debate. In the case of a select committee, it is good legislative practice to ensure that whatever comes out of a select committee, which is by its very nature ad hoc, is subject to the review of one of the standing committees that has traditional authority or oversight of that particular policy area.”

The vote Wednesday came after days of vote-whipping and pressure from lawmakers on both sides of the issue as well as constituents and local

Republican committees. One email to a lawmaker from Lewis and Clark Republican Women President Donna Elford encourages a no-vote on the resolution and to “stay true to our party.”

“They take away our super majority impact and diminishes [sic] the hard work we the people did to get this majority,” Elford wrote in an email obtained by MTFP.

Rep. Terry Moore, R-Billings, decried the amount of pressure being exerted from both sides so early in the session, especially on freshmen legislators.

“It was on both sides. All of the posturing — and I just found it unfair that fresh -

men were being leveraged before we even got here, they weren’t even sworn in,” Moore, who voted against the rules, told MTFP after the floor session ended.

Among the other votes against the rules resolution was that of Rep. Larry Brewster, R-Billings, who also brought an ultimately failed amendment to increase the blast motion threshold to 60 votes. In committee Tuesday, Brewster had voted for the amendment that did the exact opposite.

“The arguments, a couple of them are rational, so I thought I’ll give it a chance,” he said. “After I had time to think about it, I didn’t think

it was a good idea.”

He acknowledged feeling pressure on the issue, though.

“I just got a lot of emails,” he said. “You know, central committees have email lists.”

Still, he expressed a realistic appraisal of the usefulness of parliamentary jostling.

“I’m a rules guy,” said Brewster, a former Billings City Council member. “On the city council, I used the rules, and a lot of council people don’t pay attention to the rules to their demise. Because you can manipulate them. And that’s just a tool you have. It’s not good or bad, it’s the tools you have.” vj

Recruitment opens for MT Health Care Leadership Program

nity and offers opportunities to impact health care policy.

HELENA —The Montana Medical Association (MMA) invites physicians, physician assistants, advanced nurse practitioners, pharmacists and dentists to submit applications for the 2023 Healthcare Excellence in Leadership Program class, a distinguished leadership education opportunity for Montana health care providers since 2013.

The program features a top-notch faculty line-up and approach proven to enhance the leadership skills of physicians and health care professionals and grow their knowledge of health care policy in Montana. The in-depth course equips participants with the tools and knowledge to be more effective in leadership roles within their practice and the medical commu-

6 - January 11, 2023

A tentative agenda for the 2023 program is available below:

Session 1: HelenaFeb.17-18

Session 2: Fairmont Resorts - March 10-11

Webinar: April 14

Session 3: Bozeman - May 19-20

Session 4: Seeley Lake/Hybrid - June 23-24

Session 5: Polson - Aug. 4-5

Session 6: Big Sky – Sept. 15-16

The Healthcare Excellence in Leadership Program was created in 2013 by Montana physicians to help industry health care professionals step into new and emerging leadership roles and engage in vital health care policy discussions across the state.

Participants in this top-shelf leadership program attend

sessions across Montana to learn about the state’s critical health care issues and gain the leadership skills needed to create positive change in their practice, hospital, and surrounding communities. Over 154 physicians and other health care professionals have participated in the leadership program’s first nine years. Past participants have accepted top leadership roles in Montana health care institutions and received multiple industry awards, including the MMA’s Legacy of Leadership Award. The 2022 Legacy of Leadership Award was presented to 2018 HELP graduate Megan A. Evans, M.D., the Health Officer for Beaverhead County, for her significant contributions as a leader in public health.

This top-tier training opportunity is limited to 25 participants, with registration closing soon. The program

Valley Journal

welcomes applicants who are passionate about patient care and want to grow their skills to have an influential impact on patient care matters. Health care professionals interested in participating are invited to visit: mmaoffice. org to learn more and apply or contact the MMA Executive Office at: mma@mmaoffice.org or 406-443-4000.

About the Montana Medical Association:

The Montana Medical Association is a membership organization comprised of Montana physicians dedicated to improving patient care. Our mission is to serve our members as an advocate for the medical profession, quality patient care and the health of all Montana citizens. The MMA is the largest physician-led organization in Montana, with over 1,400 members.

Governor Gianforte

urges university system to Ban TikTok

HELENA – After banning TikTok on state devices, for state business, and while connected to the state network, Governor Greg Gianforte today urged the Board of Regents to support efforts by Commissioner of Higher Education Clay Christian to take similar action within the university system.

“The ability of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to spy on Americans using TikTok is well documented. Using or even downloading TikTok poses a massive security threat,” Governor Gianforte wrote in a letter to the Board of Regents. “Given the risk use of TikTok poses to our public universities and our students, I request the Board of Regents support efforts by the Commissioner of Higher Education to prevent the use of TikTok by the Montana University System (MUS) and its campuses and while connected to the MUS network.”

In the letter, the governor cited recent testimony from Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Christopher Wray who warned the app is controlled by “a government that doesn’t share our values, and that has a mission that’s very much at odds with what’s in the best interests of the United States.”

In mid-December, Governor Gianforte issued a memo to the state’s Chief Information Officer and executive agency directors prohibiting the use of TikTok on state equipment and for state business in Montana.

News from the Montana Medical Association

Montana will receive $1.1M plus to expand meat processing capacity

BIG SANDY — As part of his continued push to support small business in rural America, U.S. Senator Jon Tester today secured $1.109 million to support and expand meat processing operations across Montana. The funding comes from U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development and will be awarded in the form of seven Value-Added Producers Grants (VAPG). The grants will help seven Montana meat processors keep up with growing demand by enabling them to expand their operations and processing capacities; growing

their customer bases; and assisting with production, operational, and marketing costs.

“Every day, consolidation in the ag industry is putting small processers out of business,” said Tester. “These grants will ensure that our small business owners have the resources they need to

stay competitive, while creating jobs and lowering costs for producers and consumers. I’m proud to have secured this funding to fight consolidation and give our small businesses a fair shake.”

Tester has played a key role in expanding meat processing capability in Montana. Tes -

ter’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dedicated $1 billion for the expansion and diversification of independent processing capacity. In order to meet this objective, USDA created a number of Meat and Poultry Supply Chain programs and initiatives. The Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program was one of several programs developed to support participants of these initiatives by providing technical assistance to expand processing at the state and local levels. Last March, Tester secured $7.8 million for 30 Montana agriculture small businesses, which included funding for three new USDA-certified meat processing

facilities.

Last November, Tester secured $2 million from the Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program for the Great Falls Development Authority Inc. The funding, provided through ARPA, will go toward expanding GFDA’s relending work, providing support for both existing meat and poultry processing operations in the Great Falls region that are looking to grow as well as entrepreneurs looking to start new operations. Tester also secured $291,900 from the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) for the Montana Premium Processing Cooperative (MPPC) in Havre.

Thank You from the Ronan Bread Basket

The Volunteers of the Ronan Bread Basket would like to thank all the individuals and businesses that helped make our 2022 year such a success. This community is so very generous helping us through these tough times of illness and rising prices.

A special thanks to all the gardeners and those who remember us each month. We were priviledged to server over 544 households (2045 visits) giving away 166,649 pounds of food. We are open Tuesday and Friday 10AM to 2PM and Thursdays 4PM to 7PM and have 10 families that receive home visits.

A special thanks to our 56 volunteers who make all of this outreach possible. If you would like to volunteer, donate or need food contact us at 406-676-4357 (HELP).

- The Bread Basket Board

News from the office of Senator Tester

“

These grants will ensure that our small business owners have the resources they need to stay competitive, while creating jobs and lowering costs for producers and consumers.

- Senator Jon Tester

Lake County Dispatch receives upgrades

Story by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal

POLSON — Mark Clary, the director for Lake County’s Office of Emergency Management, couldn’t be more pleased with the recent improvements made to the County’s emergency dispatch center. He says “miles of old wire” were removed from the ceiling. Now each of the four workstations has its own climate and color ambient setting. The workstations can also be lowered for using a chair or raised if a dispatcher would like to stand. There is also a fifth workstation for the center’s supervisor and a training station. That’s not including an offsite backup dispatch center that is equipped with two workstations identical to all the others.

The entire dispatch center is now

courts

compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and there is more functionality to the workspace. Dispatchers worked out of the off-site backup center for about two months while the new center was upgraded. Clary says the upgrades also included the first in the state Harris radio system that runs in analog or digital mode. He says when the switch to digital eventually happens, they will be ready. He says Ravalli County is the only other County in Montana to have the Harris radio system. Clary thanked the Lake County Board of Commissioners for recognizing the benefits of investing funds into the new dispatch center.

Bullen sentenced for sexual assault

POLSON — A Polson man was sentenced at District Court in Polson on Jan. 5 to 19 years in the Montana State Prison with 15 years suspended on the amended charge of sexual assault. Isaac Fourbear Bullen, 22, was initially charged with the more serious crime of sexual intercourse without consent, but the charge was amended to sexual assault as part of a plea agreement.

According to court records, on June 10 Polson police were paged out to Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson on a report that staff was treating a possible rape victim. The victim was identified as a Jane Doe, age 13. She stated she was raped by Bullen in a red Dodge Durango. Doe’s mother stated that she found out her daughter

was “chatting” with Bullen on a social media platform a few days prior to June 10. She also stated that she woke up about 3:30 a.m. on June 10 to find her daughter had left their home. The mom then went driving around to look for her daughter. When Jane Doe returned around 7 a.m., she told her mother she had been raped and that Bullen had gotten her “high and drunk.” Bullen allegedly told police that he had “snap chatted” with Jane Doe but that he never met her in person. Bullen also stated that he had purchased a six pack of alcoholic

beverages and messaged Jane Doe prior to leaving his house at about 2:30 a.m. with the intent to meet up with Doe. He says she never showed up, so he left the alcohol behind some bushes near Linderman Elementary School. Bullen refused to provide a DNA sample. A search of the Dodge Durango turned up a box of condoms. Jane Doe’s grandmother contacted Polson Police and provided them with an Air Jordan hooded sweatshirt that Jane Doe claimed to belong to Bullen.

Officials at the Montana State Crime Lab were able to match Bullen’s DNA with DNA collected from Jane Doe.

District Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher gave Bullen credit for already having served 209 days in the Lake County jail.

Caye pleads not guilty to distribution of dangerous drugs

POLSON — A Polson man is accused of selling the deadly drug fentanyl to an undercover drug agent on three separate occasions. Jalen Douglas Caye, 22, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson on Jan. 4 to three felony counts of criminal distribution of dangerous drugs. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 25 years for a total of 75 years in prison.

According to court records, on July 21, a confidential informant was fitted with a transmitter for tracking and recording purposes and given $120 to purchase three oxycodone pills containing fentanyl. The CI then went to Caye’s location and was able to purchase 2 and a half pills for $100 and returned the balance of the money to

Stories by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal

JEFF SMITH PHOTO

Isaac Bullen

Right: Lake County’s emergency dispatch center recently received numerous updates that make it ADA compliant.

Hammer sentenced for strangulation

Story by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal

POLSON — A Polson man was committed at District Court in Polson on Jan. 5 to a total of 11 years with the Montana Department of Corrections with 6 years suspended. Patrick Lee Hammer, Jr., 26, pleaded guilty during an earlier court appearance to felony charges of strangulation of a partner or family member, criminal possession with intent to distribute and bail jumping. The plea was entered as part of a global plea agreement that dismisses two counts of criminal possession of dangerous drugs and resolves five total cases involving five separate criminal charges.

According to court records, on July 26, 2021, Hammer picked his girlfriend up by grabbing her around the throat. The bail jumping charge is for missing a court appearance on one of the drug possession

Caye pleads not guilty

charges that was dismissed. On the criminal possession with intent to distribute charge, Hammer admitted to dealing fentanyl. According to the charging documents, on Oct. 4 Hammer was the subject of a traffic stop. A search of his vehicle turned up $700 in cash in a wallet, $1,247 cash in his front pocket and five halved and one full blue fentanyl pill. Law enforcement also located a notebook with drug related information in it and a mobile device that contained texts referring to drug sales. When questioned, Hammer admitted that he had recently traveled to Spokane and brought back 200 blue pills. He said he picked up another 150 pills for distribution in Lake County on Oct. 3. He told the arresting officer that he buys the pills for $15 in Spokane and sells them for $20 in Lake County.

The Lake County jail roster shows Hammer has already served 94 days in jail as of the Jan. 5 sentencing date.

from page 8

purchases of fentanyl laced pills: one on July 26 involving 9 pills for $300 and another July 27 involving 7 pills for $360. Judge Molly Owen set the case for trial June 5 and set Caye’s bail at $30,000. vj

Mahseelah pleads not guilty to negligent homicide

Story by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal POLSON — Judge Molly Owen set a trial date of June 5 for a St. Ignatius man accused of killing his friend and fellow party attendee. Tommy Van Mahseelah, 18, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson on Jan. 4 to felony charges of negligent homicide and accidents involving a deceased person.

According to court records, on Nov. 19 about a dozen underage kids went up Mission Dam Road to celebrate after the St. Ignatius Bulldogs won the state championship football game. The youths consumed alcohol and drove back to St. Ignatius in four separate vehicles. At one point, one of the vehicles carrying passenger David Hammer stopped so a more sober driver could take over driving duties. However, Hammer did not get back in and was left along the roadside. A short time later, Mahseelah came by driving his flatbed truck with camouflage paint job and allegedly struck Hammer with his truck. Hammer’s body was discovered by his own mother

who was out looking for her son. She had already come across Mahseelah who indicated to her that Hammer was already back in town.

Lifesaving efforts were administered to Hammer by an ambulance crew, but Hammer died of his injuries. He was declared dead at 3:42 the morning of Nov. 20. Based on witness statements, investigators turned their focus on Mahseelah. When questioned, Mahseelah admitted that his vehicle was the last to leave the party. He indicated that his windshield was fogged up. He also allegedly admitted that he saw something in the road and thought it was just snow before hitting the object. He said when he and his passengers got out to see what they struck, they allegedly found Hammer face down in the roadway. They reportedly rolled Hammer onto his back and realized Hammer was not breathing. At some point they came across Mahseelah’s mother and lied to her about her son’s whereabouts. Mahseelah remains at liberty awaiting the June 5 trial date.

Mission Mountain Enterprises Care Manager - Nurse

MME is seeking a Care Manager to oversee our medical department. LPN or RN required. Great benefits and competitive salary. If you are looking for a rewarding job with amazing people inquire today. Apply at: www.mme-mt.org or call our Administration office (406).676.2563 for more information.

Providing

opportiunity.

valley views

Elevate the every day

F or this New Year, I splurged during a sale and bought myself a countertop ice maker. I’ve never lived in an apartment with an ice maker built into the freezer. Ever since I left home, I’ve just used those little freezer ice trays, and mostly gone without ice at all because they never felt worth the hassle to me. But when I visited my dad for the holidays, he had ice in every drink, and it felt kind of luxurious. Silly, right?

When my best friend was moving recently, she talked about the things

she and her husband were searching for in their next rental. Little things, like a shower with a door instead of a curtain, and a fridge with sideby-side doors. Tiny elevations that make the place feel a little bit better than their last. This made an impression on me. I’m not

typically one to spring for household luxuries for myself; a thrift shop find and a utilitarian solution are usually good enough for me for a solid few years. But adding a little something that makes your life feel a little bit elevated, makes you feel a little more like that mythical “proper adult,” can make a surprising impact. Something as silly as

Library embraces the new year

Happy New Year!

We are all so excited for 2023 and the wonderful updates and changes it will bring to our building with our renovation project. We hope you are excited as well.

We will continue our music in the library series after our renovation is complete. We have several programs scheduled for January so you’ll want to be sure to check them out. In partnership with AARP, the library is hosting another Smart Driver Course on Thursday, Jan. 12 at 1 p.m. Call or visit the library to reg-

ister. There is a materials fee due the day of the class. Angela is hosting a final coloring program on Jan. 17 at 1 p.m. If you have ever attended a library coloring program or always wanted to, this is your chance. Our January tech program is Thursday, Jan. 26, at 2 p.m. Sierra will help navigate the changes that our renovation will bring. She will provide instruction on how to use our online resources, setting up a library PIN, placing

holds, using our app, changes to picking up items and what parts of our library collection will be available during our renovation.

View from the Library

The Library is very pleased to host local author, Milana Marsenich on Monday, Jan. 23, at 5:30 p.m. for a reading and book signing. Milana’s latest book, “Beautiful Ghost” is a sequel to “Copper Sky” and is set in Butte during the 1918 flu

having ice in my drinks all the time now puts a smile on my face, and I’ve noticed granting myself that “luxury” has helped to turn my mood to a more positive perspective on the daily. A good mood has helped my productivity too, and my days lately have felt just a little bit nicer.

This isn’t all about purchasing “luxury” items, either. Taking the time to do something for yourself you wouldn’t normally, something that feels just a little bit luxurious in your day to day, is a wonderful change to bring into

your life. Winter can be a long, hard time of year in a lot of ways. We miss the sun and warmth and vitamin D that come from being outside when it’s not miserably cold. But doing little things for yourself, small treats for a reward or for no reason in particular, can help bring a little excitement to the dark days of the year.

So, in this new year as we wait for the days to get longer, try and treat yourself a bit. Award yourself extra time in a hot shower. Try something new with your style just for fun. Add

ice to your drink. Be kind to yourself, and add a little luxury to your day because you deserve it, whatever that luxury looks like.

LETTER POLICY

Letters to the editor are welcome. The content is the opinion of the letter writer and not the newspaper.

The decision to publish letters is made by the editor.

Letters must be 350 words or less. A writer will only be published twice per month.

pandemic. Books will be available for purchase at the event or bring your own copy.

Children’s programming will run throughout our renovation project. Visit us on Mondays at 9:15 a.m. for Mother Goose for ages 0-3 and Thursdays at 9:15 a.m. for Story Time for ages 3-5. If you haven’t registered yet for 1000 Books Before Kindergarten, visit our website or ask us about this fun program.

A lot will be happening in January and February to prepare the library for the beginning of construction in March.

At this time, we plan to move out of our current building into a temporary location. Plans are not quite finalized, but we will announce our temporary location as soon as they are. In order for the construction to go smoothly, we need to clear the building as much as we can. You can help us with this in a few ways. Beginning on Jan. 3, all of our 28-day checkout books have an extended due date of Oct. 1. We hope that you will check out as many of these books as you care to read (or try to read) and

Letters may be edited for content or length, or may not be published if considered libelous, in poor taste, spiteful, self-promotional or of limited interest to the general readership.

Space limitations also dictate when or if letters are published.

Letters must be signed by the author and name, address and phone number must be included –phone number is for verification purposes only. Letters from organizations must include the name of at least one author.

Please limit “thank you” letters to four people/organizations or less. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday to publish the following week.

Opinions expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the newspaper.

Taylor Davison Editor, Valley Journal

A Taylor’d Approach

Abbi Dooley, North Lake County Public Library District

hang onto them until our renovation is complete in the fall. This is a great time to read an entire series, a new or favorite author, or really delve into your favorite genre. We will move and have available for checkout a selection of the remaining 28-day books, all of our movies, audiobooks, new books, board books and special items. All other books will be stored and unavailable to checkout during renovation. Our Partners sharing system will continue, so you will still be able to get the titles you want from other libraries, and we will continue to buy new titles as they are released. The second way you can help is by shopping our surplus sale in February. We will be selling most of our furniture, shelving and lots of miscellaneous items. Watch for details and a date. To allow us space to prepare, our meeting room will not be available for large groups beginning Feb. 1. We hope to not be closed more than is necessary to get moved, but we will keep you updated on any closures we may have.

The library’s hours are Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The library will be closed on Monday, Jan. 16, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Curbside pickup is available for everyone during open hours. Please call us at 406883-8225 or email us at: polsoncl@polson.lib.mt.us with questions or to request curbside pickup.

vj

Sun and shade

I’ve always loved gardening. No, I’m going to take that a step further: I’ve always loved growing things.

Growing things - as in flowers, vegetables, friendships, babies and kids, this column, faith, my marriage, knowledge, compassion, kindness and most importantly love. And more, of course. There is always more to grow.

I’ve learned many insider tips and tricks about growing things over the years. Today I realized I’m still learning.

I’m in a new climate and meeting new neighbors. That’s a scenario ripe for learning potential.

This morning I was talking with a neighbor. She has numerous plants in her yard that are common in this region, but completely new to me. I asked her about a couple

- whether they liked sun or shade, water requirements, whether they were finicky or easy to grow, and so on.

“Oh, honey,” she said. “I just plant them. If they grow, they grow. If they don’t, they weren’t meant for my yard. They have to be happy to be here.”

I thought that was insightful and wise.

In my last house I had a large garden plot filled with shade. The owners before me planted roses. Rose plants thrive on sun and temperate winters. I had neither.

However, I did have am ample supply of small children at the time, which prevented me from treating my roses with the TLC they needed to survive in my yard.

So, they perished. At the time, I thought: Any plant can grow in the sun. It takes something special

to grow in the shade.

I replaced the roses with hostas. Hostas are a common perennial in the cool, dark climates that favor them, but apparently they aren’t as widespread as I thought. My autocorrect wants to change the word to “hostess,” so apparently they haven’t even made their way into some dictionaries.

For those unfamiliar, hostas are sort of leafy northern versions of large-leaved tropical plants. They typically grow in a round mound, with leaves flowing outward. They can be as small as six inches in diameter or as large as six feet - and just as tall (or short). Cultivars have come up with hundreds (and probably thousands) of named varieties. I believe I had close to 40 or 50 different strains in my

backyard.

It took years to build, and was one of the hardest things for me to leave when I sold my house.

But, there were other gardens to grow.

I moved from a plot of ever-present shade and ever-present winter (or so it seemed) to ever-present sun and ever-present warmth. I’ve looked around and there isn’t a hosta to be found in my new environment.

Apparently growing hostas in my yard now would be akin to growing roses in my old plot. With that comes the realization: Not every plant likes the shade. It takes something special to grow in the sun.

Herein lies the wisdom of my new neighbor. Not everything can grow everywhere. Plants have to be happy in their environment. You can try forcing them, like the people

who planted the roses at my old house, but it’s always going to be a battle against nature - against the order of things.

The same goes for people. Sometimes we find the right amount of shade and cool temperatures; other times we seek the sun. Both are good. Both can be good.

Bottom line, we all get to figure out where we grow best. When it’s time to put down roots and when it’s time to replant and regrow – sunshine or shade or maybe even a little of both.

I’m not sure where that will take me, but for now, right here seems right, but I’m still learning. I hope I never stop.

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

Senate Republicans agenda for this legislative session

The 68th Montana Legislature is officially in session. As Senate leadership, we’re excited to see Senate Republicans getting to work on enacting conservative policy for our state.

Legislative Notes

Sen. Jason Ellsworth, Sen. Ken Bogner, Sen. Steve Fitzpatrick

The last time the Legislature met, we

successfully passed a conservative balanced budget, cut taxes for individuals and businesses, secured our Second Amendment rights, invested in public access to public lands and high speed broadband, and passed legislation to protect

the unborn and further secure our elections. We also put a constitutional amendment on the ballot to ensure Montanans’ electronic communications are protected from government intrusion, which voters overwhelming adopted in November’s election.

Since the last legislative session, three major things have happened that will impact the current session in big ways. The first is that Montana now has a record budget surplus in the neighborhood of $2 billion. The second is that Montana’s housing market went from very hot in cer -

tain areas to completely unaffordable and unsustainable across much of the state. The third is that voters elected a supermajority of Republicans to the Legislature, something that had never happened before.

All of this means we’re entering what we expect to be another historic legislative session. Top of mind for Republicans is providing financial relief to Montanans who are suffering from President Biden’s inflation and the high cost of living. Perhaps the “worst kept secret,” as Governor Gianforte has put it, is that we’re going to cut taxes again. With our massive budget surplus, we’re going to

pay down the state’s debt to get rid of those existing taxpayer obligations. We’re also working on the specifics of returning hundreds of millions of dollars back to Montana resident taxpayers. As conservative Republicans, we know that that money belongs to you, not the government.

We’re also working with the governor on a massive Red Tape Relief project to get rid of unnecessary government regulations that stifle businesses and prevent Montanans from achieving their full potential. On the housing front, we’re again working in conjunction with the governor on a suite of legislative options to make housing more

affordable and attainable.

We expect to put more state constitutional amendments on the ballot for voters to consider. It takes 100 out of 150 legislators to propose an amendment, and 51% of voters in the next election to actually amend the state’s constitution. Both of those are big hurdles to meet, meaning amendments need to be clear and have broad support.

The Legislature will consider hundreds of additional proposals in the coming months. Every member is there to represent their specific constituents and every lawmaker has their own individual goals and priorities. But the ones we’ve mentioned here are the

big ones for the Republican caucus as a whole and the ones we expect to define this legislative session.

The Legislature is the most transparent and most accessible branch of Montana’s government. Contact your representative and senator. Testify on bills you care about, whether in person at the Capitol or remotely via Zoom. Make your voice heard.

Sen. Jason Ellsworth, R-Hamilton, is the President of the Montana Senate. Sen. Ken Bogner, R-Miles City, is the President Pro Tempore and Sen. Steve Fitzpatrick, R-Great Falls, is the Senate Majority Leader.

Unity in the community, or, how I learned to get along with my enemies

W ho am I supposed to hate, again?

For years I taught a graduate class, Identity Conflict, and I would begin the term by noting that trying to list the composite identity elements of any one individual would show that, indeed, we are unique. No two humans share an exact measure of identities. Even twins billed as “identical” have identities that are separate, if only “born first,” and “born second.”

My tribal labels: white, boomer, male, Green/Democratic, professor, pacifist (except to mosquitos and rats), and much more. Your tribal labels extend into many

permutations of your primary identity, carving out your unique identity now and forever on this Earth.

Nonetheless, we manage to stress one identity on many days, and allow that to create borders and even conflicts with those who do not share that one aspect of Who I Am. That frequently erupts into conflicts small and large, internal and between peoples. Those who hold multiple identities are often caught in the middle: One study looked at the effects on Muslim girls in British schools and the challenges faced

Valley Views

Tom H. Hastings PeaceVoice

by both the girls and the schools. Another examined the devoutly religious who are LGBTQ+ and subjected to exhortations to “pray the gay away.” These pressures can fracture communities and damage innocent people.

In my field of Conflict Transformation, we know that loss intensifies that aspect of identity and sets up a typology of identity: Us vs Them. My field is highly interdisciplinary; we borrowed this identity-intensification-as-a-legacy-of -loss from a cross discipline, Social Psychology. It’s basically the collective

version of passive-aggressive behavior. The narrative is: We were defeated and now we hate them forever, we nurse the desire for revenge in our private circles, we gather our forces behind the scenes for as long as it takes (even generations if needs be), and then we strike.

Welcome to Hitler’s Germany, striking back after WWI and the retributive Treaty of Versailles. Say hello to Rwanda following the brutal colonization by Belgium and the favored treatment of the Tutsi population. We’re looking at you, Palestine, since your land was stolen, and you are second-class citizens at

best. And of course, we have our frustrated men from former Confederate states, whose ancestors lost the US Civil War. This list is virtually endless.

Everybody wants payback.

So, we will expect that forever, or until wars either escalate to thermonuclear Apocalypse or consume and spew out so much carbon we kill the climate and ourselves in the bargain (is anyone tracking the carbon boot print of the war in Ukraine, for instance?). Destructive conflict, often fueled by identity, may be the ultimate undoing of our species.

I was a Conscientious

Objector during the Vietnam War, born in 1950 and thus turned 18 during the most furious part of that war, the Tet Offensive. I am supposed to hate my brothers who served in combat in that illegal, immoral war.

I don’t--never have. As soon as the first of my friends came home, all that tension evaporated and was instead redirected entirely toward the Johnsons and Nixons and Dow Chemical executives and all those who profited. Of course, my first friend who came home did so in a wheelchair for life, a good-looking,

friendly big brother to one of my closest friends, a kid who was kind to all of us, someone whose smile remains in my minds-eye, my minds-heart.

Hate? I just say no.  Fast forward to our current time, and the Patriot Prayer (local Proud Boys hereabouts) are supposed to hate me and I am bound to hate them. I mean, my sons are African American and they are white supremacists. I am for peace and they want violence. I am disarmed; they are armed.

But we get along. They have literally reached out to me to shake my hand. I can place my hand on the shoulder of the biggest and baddest of them, and I have.

Why? Why stop hating the terrible conniving rotten Other who clearly wants you dead?

Because the hate only feeds more hate, more destruction, more violence, more useless continuation of wreckage. Unless some people simply stop, however unilaterally that might be, the hate will never vanish. It may go under some rock when social norms force it there, but it is like a peat bog fire

just waiting under the surface, for years sometimes, before conditions allow it to erupt into a raging wildfire.

How? How to drop the hate?

For me, as a member of an unarmed public safety team, I know, as all of us in this practice know, that we will often be required to just do so unilaterally, to “take one for the team,” and to understand that when we are disrespected, insulted, or even assaulted, it is never in service to the community to respond with hate, nor to mirror disrespect, but to instead regard ourselves as in service to the well-being of the

community, even if only for a limited time.

No one is afraid of us. No one holds a grudge against us. We do not dissemble; no one on our team nods in agreement when someone yells a sexist slur, a racist rant, or any other offensive act. But neither do we debate them.

Instead, we seek clarity, we ask, we listen. We affirm what we can.

One young woman told a highly offensive anti-Islam counter-protester, “Sounds like you really care about this country.” Her accurate observation did not affirm his point of view, but it de-escalated him and they had a

discussion. She listened for several minutes, asking small clarifying questions, and then, shockingly, he asked her a couple and listened to her. Up until she approached him, he had been live-streaming his racist rants. Once they started talking, he turned off his camera. Not only did she take him out of play for about 45 minutes, she helped diminish the hurtful tone of the counter-protesters substantially, since he was the alpha male of the group.

This young woman is an Iraqi immigrant, a former refugee who fled the war with her

mother. She is brownskinned and was covered, fairly obviously a Muslim. The man was literally wearing a t-shirt that said, “Stop being Muslim.”

That young woman is our hope for an end to hate. We can do this. We need her emotional maturity, her willingness to absorb the hate and transform it into understanding, which then, in turn, becomes the weapon that diminishes and even banishes and vanishes hate.

There is hope. Humans have it in us. May 2023 show so much more of this healing.

Polson Running group warms up cold season with fun run

By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

POLSON — Polson Running will be defying the cold later this month with the Sorry ‘Bout That half marathon and team relay on Jan. 21 at 9:30 a.m.

The 10th anniversary of Sorry ‘Bout That race will run clockwise on the route this year, meaning there will be both an uphill start and an uphill finish. Beginning at Mission Valley Aquatics, those who arrive to run wearing a costume will be given a 30 second head start. With decorated aid stations and T-shirts for runners, Polson Running makes it a point to make Sorry ‘Bout That a fun event for the community and participants.

“(The run) is supposed to keep people motivated when the weather starts getting bad,” Polson Running board member Lauren Arnold laughed. “We try to make it super fun. People wear costumes; our aid stations have themes.”

Arnold and her husband have been involved in Polson Running since her husband signed them up eight years ago, and have been with the organization ever since. “My husband and I both run. There’s a pretty decent running community in Polson really, some fairly competitive runners,” she commented.

The local nonprofit, Polson Running, puts on races throughout the year designed to raise money for other nonprofits. Polson Running provides the framework for businesses to put on races with their own volunteers, such as the Turkey Trot that raises

money for the Polson food bank. The Sorry ‘Bout That run, however, acts as a sort of fundraiser for Polson Running itself. Though no one with Polson Running brings home an income from the nonprofit, Arnold explained the funds brought in go toward overhead costs like insurance and other necessities for the group to put on races year-round.

A popular race that brings in travelers every year, Arnold said as far as she’s aware Sorry ‘Bout That has never been cancelled for the weather. The race offers a relay division for those who don’t want to take on the half marathon. While people typically have teams of four, Arnold said, teams with other numbers of participants are allowed. “We’re pretty flexible because it’s mostly about having fun,” Arnold explained. As long as people find their own teammates to switch out and can drive themselves to the relay stations, she doesn’t anticipate objections.

“I’m always impressed at how many people get out in these winter conditions and actually have a good time,” Arnold said.

“It really can be quite cold, and we’ve had years where it’s been sort of extreme, and everybody has fun … I’m just always impressed by our participants and

how much fun they have and what they make of the race. I think it’s really neat.”

Packet pickup for Sorry ‘Bout That will be available the day of the race on Jan. 23. Those interested in finding out future events, connecting with other runners to form running

groups in town, or who even want to learn more about volunteering to help at future races, can do so by reaching out to Polson Running via Facebook. Arnold invited nonprofits interested in working with them in the future to do the same at: facebook.com/polsonrunning

COURTESY PHOTO

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sports shorts

Polson Girls Basketball

WHITEFISH — The Lady Pirates traveled to Whitefish to take on the Bulldogs on Jan. 6, winning 44-32. Although Whitefish led by one point after the first quarter, Polson went ahead in the second and never looked back. Addyson Gallatin led all scoring with 20 points, including four 3-pointers, in what was an outstanding individual performance. Nikki Kendall and Ilysia Adams kicked in six more a piece, ensuring the Lady Pirates went home with a win.

On Jan. 7, the Polson Lady Pirates hosted the Browning Indians, losing 55-48. In what was a back and forth, ultra-competitive game, the game was tied at 12 after the first quarter. Browning was able to go ahead by four by the end of the half and extended the lead by three at the end of the third quarter. Both teams found their scoring touch in the fourth, with each scoring 19 points. Mila Hawk led the Lady Pirates with 17 points and Addyson Gallatin added 14 of her own. The Lady Pirates next play in Frenchtown on Jan. 13 at

3 p.m.

Ronan Girls Basketball

RONAN — The Maidens hosted the Whitefish Bulldogs on Jan. 3, winning 35-34. The Maidens trailed at the end of every quarter, only to finish the fourth with their best, securing the come from behind win. Olivia Heiner led the maidens in scoring with seven points, while Lauryn Buhr and Bella Devereau Trahan added six more each. The Maidens next travel to Columbia Falls Jan. 13 at 4:15 p.m.

ing a new trust account to fund habitat stewardship projects in rural Montana.

HELENA — Montana hunters and anglers are invited to attend ‘Elk Camp at the Capitol’ on Tuesday, Jan. 24, at the Montana Capitol building in Helena.

Elk Camp is a celebration of Montana’s exceptional outdoor legacy and an opportunity for hunters and anglers to discuss wildlife and habitat policy with lawmakers active in the 68th Montana Legislature.

The event is hosted by member organizations who make up the Montana Citizens’ Elk Management Coalition. The Coalition has been active this past year working to improve the status-quo of elk management, foster better relationships between hunters and landowners, and in establish-

Montana Citizens Elk Management Coalition organizer, Jeff Lukas, says Elk Camp is an opportunity for hunters and anglers to learn how to be civically engaged during an important legislative session.

“We want hunters and anglers to learn how to participate in the wildlife policies that impact our public access, wildlife, and hunting opportunity,” Lukas said. “There have already been 150 bills requested to modify fish and wildlife policy so we encourage hunters and anglers to get engaged and join us at Elk Camp.”

Elk Camp begins at 11:30 a.m. with a gathering on the North Lawn to hear from Montana citizens and bipartisan lawmakers active in wild-

life management policy. Speakers include Senator Jeff Wellborn, R-Dillon, Rep Tom France, D-Missoula, and recently retired Fish and Wildlife Commissioner, Patrick Byorth.

After the gathering, participants will partake in civic training sessions and meet with lawmakers inside the building. Topics of discussion include improving the Block Management hunting program, public access and Habitat Montana, and establishing the Montana Legacy Trust to improve wildlife habitat conditions.

Complimentary bus transportation to and from Helena is available from several cities in the State. A full list of activities and transportation opportunities, as well as the RSVP, is available at: www.montanaelk.org. Participants are encouraged to RSVP in advance.

Hunters and Anglers Invited to ‘Elk Camp at the Capitol’

Stories by Porter Counts / Valley Journal

schools

Scholarships available for PHS seniors, graduates Polson schools builds new programs

News from Polson Schools

POLSON — Scholarships applications are currently available for Polson High School graduates.

Any student who is currently enrolled as a senior at Polson High School or as a previous PHS graduate are eligible for these scholarships; provided by Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation (PSEF). Money for PSEF, is generated by various fund raising events, donations from individuals and clubs, and from families who provide scholarships in

memory of loved ones. 13 different $1,000 scholarships are geared for high school seniors. 14 different scholarships up to $2,000 are available for PHS students enrolled in college. These scholarships are for any accredited four-year, two-year, community college or vocational program. Qualifications vary with each scholarship. All students are encouraged to apply as these scholarships are for every type of student with various GPAs.

Last year 31 students received over $40,000 in scholarships from PSEF. Again this year the scholarship ap-

plication is on line at Polson High School website, under the heading “Counseling/ PSEF”. It is also available at Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation at our Face Book page at Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation. All scholarship requirements and applications can be accessed and entered electronically from this web page. For more information and applications contact Chris McElwee at the Polson High School Counseling Center or Chris Strom at stromchris2@gmail. com.The deadline for applications is Feb. 15.

Library hosts local author book signing

News from North Lake County Library

POLSON — On Monday, Jan. 23, at 5:30 p.m., the North Lake County Public Library will host a book signing for Milana Marsenich whose latest release is

“Beautiful Ghost,” the sequel to “Copper Sky.” The new book is about the fall of 1918 as the influenza pandemic reaches the mining town of Butte, Montana. Marsenich is a Montana author who lives near Flathead Lake.

POLSON — Polson High School is focusing efforts to build a Computer Science Program to provide exposure and skill development opportunities for students. The new program is in partnership with Project Lead The Way (PLTW). PLTW is a National STEM Curriculum Provider. This year approximately 40 students have been participating in the foundation level course titled “Computer Science Essentials (CSE)”. One of those students is freshman Violet Humble. Violet shared that one of her favorite things about the CSE course is “the freedom of the tasks and how we are able to use our own creativity to create many different apps and solutions to problems.”

CSE provides a framework for students to experience the major topics, big ideas, and computational thinking practices used by computing professionals to solve problems and create value for others. In addition to this framework, students begin to develop coding and programming skills. As the year progresses, students partner to develop basic apps and learn to program and code robotic systems.

Next year PHS will be adding the next course in this sequence “Computer Science Principles (CSP)”. CSP is described as “Using Python as a primary tool, students explore and become inspired by career paths that utilize computing, discover tools that foster creativity and collaboration, and use what they’ve learned to tackle challenges like

app development and simulation. This course is endorsed by the College Board, giving students the opportunity to take the AP Computer Science Principles exam for college credit.”

Polson High School is excited about these new opportunities for students. Computer Science is one of the fastest growing careers in our country and in the world. Locally, we are seeing an increase in the need for these skills. PHS received a grant for $14,000 to support the teacher professional development that is required to offer these courses. The instructor for these courses is Connor Mulvaney. Mr. Mulvaney is in his second year at Polson High School where he teaches Computer Science and Earth Science. When asked about the impact of these courses, Mr. Mulvaney stated, “These classes expose students to foundational computer science and coding concepts. The students get to design their own apps, program robots, and learn how to write their own code. I am constantly amazed at how my students creatively approach and solve problems.”

In addition to the PLTW classes that PHS offers, Ms. Polly Dupuis has also worked with PHS Students and SKC Staff to offer a Dual Enrollment Computer Science class. These course additions are a small part of a larger effort to expand the job training and skill development programs at PHS. If you would like more information, please contact Andy Fors at Polson High School.

News from the Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation

19 key wins for veterans, veteran families

U.S. SENATE — U.S. Senator Jon Tester successfully introduced, spearheaded, and sent 19 veterans bills to the President’s desk in his second year as Chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. These new laws are part of Tester’s continued commitment to deliver timelier, quality care, benefits, and services to veterans and their families in Montana and nationwide at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

“We took great strides this year on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee to make good on our promises to veterans and their families across the country—making it one of our most productive Congresses yet,” said Tester. “I’m especially proud

to have worked with Republicans and Democrats to deliver toxic-exposed veterans of all generations historic relief under the PACT Act—a bill that’ll do right by these men and women for years to come. It’s an honor of lifetime to serve as Chairman of this committee, and I look forward to continuing the good work alongside my colleagues, veterans, Veterans Service Organizations, Military Service Organizations, and other stakeholders in the new year to keep holding the Administration accountable in delivering our nation’s bravest the support they need, earned, and deserve.”

President Joe Biden signed the following veterans’ bills authored by Tester in 2022: — Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise

to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act   — Making Advances in Mammography & Medical Options (MAMMO) for Veterans Act

— Strengthening Oversight for Veterans Act

— Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Act of 2022

— VA Electronic Health Record Transparency Act  — Ensuring the Best Schools for Veterans Act of — Fiscal Year 2023 Expiring Authorities Act

— Fiscal Year 2022 Major Medical Facility Authorization Act   — A bill to amend title 38, United States Code, to authorize the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to transfer the name of property of the Department of Veterans Affairs designated by law to other property — National Cemeteries Preser-

Serving Lake County since 1923

vation & Protection Act of 2022

He also secured a package of veterans’ legislation and the following bills he authored as part of an omnibus federal funding package:

— The Joseph Maxwell Cleland & Robert Joseph Dole Memorial Veterans Benefits Improvement Act of 2022

—  Building Solutions for Veterans Experiencing Homelessness Act of 2021

— Rural Veterans Travel Enhancement Act of 2021  — Department of Veterans Affairs Information Technology Reform Act of 2021

— Veterans Prostate Cancer Treatment & Research Act — VA Supply Chain Resiliency Act

— Post-9/11 Veterans’ Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2021

— Revising and Expediting Actions for the Crisis Hotline

(REACH) for Veterans Act  — American Indian and Alaska Native Veterans Mental Health Act

Chairman Tester received the following awards for his efforts on behalf of veterans and their families in the 117th Congress: the Student Veterans of America’s Sonny Montgomery Student Veteran Champion Award, the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans’ 2021 Policy Award, the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors’ TAPS Congressional Award, the Retired Enlisted Association’s Legislator of the Year Award, the Fleet Reserve Association’s Pinnacle Award, the Jefferson Islands Club Citizen of the Year Award, and the Wounded Warrior Project’s Legislator of the Year Award.

News from the office of Senator Tester

What teacher licensing looked like in 2022

A report released Friday by OPI shows the number of new and emergency credentials issued to teachers last year fell from mid-pandemic highs.

News from Alex Sakariassen Montana Free Press

MONTANA — A Montana Office of Public Instruction report released Friday shows notable decreases in 2022 in the number of newly licensed teachers and those obtaining emergency employment authorizations following significant spikes in 2021.

According to OPI’s report, the agency approved 1,207 new licenses last year, the lowest total since at least 2018. It also granted 134 emergency authorization requests, which enable administrators to hire an unlicensed educator for one year while that educator pursues full licensure or the school continues to search for an applicant to fill a position permanently. Based on the report, the bulk of those authorizations were in smaller rural districts that have historically faced challenges in recruiting new teachers.

“Our schools mirror the many help wanted signs in businesses throughout our Montana communities,” state Superintendent Elsie Arntzen said in a statement accompanying the report’s release. “I have sought solutions by offering flexibilities in our teacher licensing rules, streamlining our teacher licensing system, increasing our professional development courses, and de-

veloping a teacher residency program to ensure our first year teachers are classroom ready.”

Arntzen’s office will present its 2022 licensure report to the Montana Board of Public Education at the board’s meeting on Jan. 27. Among the recent initiatives Arntzen alluded to in her statement Friday were the launch of a new online licensing system for educators last summer, and an at-times controversial revision of state licensure regulations approved by the board of public education in May.

The emergency authorizations from 2022 speak to a number of critical shortage areas for public schools across Montana, with nearly half of them granted for educators at the K-8 level. Specialized instructional positions such as health and physical education, family and consumer sciences, and English language and literature in grades 5-12 also saw multiple emergency employment approvals.

On the new license front, more than a third of the credentials issued by OPI were for teachers with endorsements in earth sciences. Roughly 100 new educators were granted licenses in special education, an area that school officials and public education advocates have increasingly indicated is in dire need of additional staff throughout the state. Those same voices have also expressed deep concern about the level of available mental health support for students, particularly in the wake of contentious changes to in-school mental health programs and debates about eliminating a state-mandated ratio for school counselors. Accord-

ing to the report, OPI issued 27 new K-12 school counselor licenses statewide in 2022.

The number of licenses granted to new teachers in Montana declined by nearly 300 during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, before jumping to 1,646 in 2021. Montana Federation of Public Employees President Amanda Curtis, whose organization represents the majority of public school employees in the state, speculated that the rise in new licenses during the pandemic’s second year may have resulted from attempts to address gaps in learning stemming from the shift between remote and in-person instruction. Her “best guess” for the 2021 spike, she said, is that some districts used federal COVID relief funds to hire certified specialists to work one-on-one with students experiencing those gaps.

Curtis added that while educator prep programs on Montana college campuses typically produce enough candidates

each year to fill most open positions in the state, those new teachers often seek employment elsewhere, meaning they aren’t pursuing licenses here.

“Their preference by far is to teach near either where they grew up or near where they went to school, and they’re not able to do that because they can’t afford to,” said Curtis, noting that average teacher wages in Montana are among the lowest in the country.

“Our health care expenses in Montana take out such a huge chunk of their take-home pay. And then housing on top of that and day care costs on top of that mean that some firstyear teachers are being asked to teach for free.”

Asked via email for OPI’s assessment, agency spokesperson Brian O’Leary wrote that Montana experienced a 10% decline in the number of students exiting educator prep programs between 2020 and 2021. Even so, O’Leary continued, 557 new teachers completed those programs in 2021

— more than enough to fill the 503 active openings currently on OPI’s jobs website.

“We know that not all of the students that completed a prep program were originally from Montana, nor did they all stay in Montana,” O’Leary concluded.

Teacher pay has emerged as one of the most prominent discussion points when it comes to recruitment and retention. Montana lawmakers passed a bill in 2021 to incentivize increases to starting teacher pay, and a proposal to bolster that program with additional funding has already been requested in the 2023 Legislature. Curtis said she hopes legislators this spring will explore other policies that make employment more tenable for educators considering positions in Montana schools, adding that any proposals to ease health care costs — including allowing teachers to form a statewide insurance pool — could go a long way in addressing workforce challenges.

ERIK PETERSEN PHOTO

Conserving family farmland in the Mission Valley

MISSION VALLEY

— On Dec. 27, an agricultural gem in the Mission Valley was protected in perpetuity under a conservation easement held by Flathead Land Trust. For over 50 years, a Mission Valley family has been farming this area south of Polson. Their 315-acre family farm contains rich lakebed sediments at the base of the Valley View Hills with a backdrop of the rugged Mission Mountains. It is just south of Pablo Reservoir, which provides water for irrigation that is critical for agriculture on the property. The entire farm incorporates rich soils that have been designated as prime farmland and farmland of local importance by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). For two generations the family has been farming the productive land - first raising cattle and now growing wheat and hay.

Even though the third generation has decided not to take over the family farm and instead elected to go into non-agriculture related careers, the family wanted to see their productive land stay in agriculture. They decided the best way to do this was with a purchased conservation easement through the NRCS Agricultural Land Easement program. Not

only will the conservation easement ensure that their rich soils can stay in farming in perpetuity, but the family also receives cash they can use for retirement or their farming operation without having to sell any of their land. The conservation easement on the family farm will not only keep rich farmland available for agriculture, but it will also benefit birds and wildlife. Cultivated fields and wet areas associated

with the irrigation system and ephemeral waterways on the property provide good bird habitat. The family regularly observes trumpeter swan, Canada geese, great blue heron, a variety of ducks, as well as birds of prey, including bald eagle, prairie falcon, hawks, barred owl, and short-eared owl. While many of these species use the nearby Pablo Reservoir for feeding and nesting, the waterways, wet

see page 20

a job

college credits

Full time positions receive the health insurance benefit 12 months a year. Check out the available jobs and detailed job vacancy announcements on the SKC website – www.skc.edu/employment

SKC Extension Operations Manager (Part time - 12 months)

Salary Range: Bachelor’s degree - $20.17 - $23.56 per hour

Salary Range: Master’s degree - $20.73 - $24.12 per hour Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Journey to Wellness Community Outreach (Full time)

Salary Range: $16.54 - $17.40 DOEE per hour Closing Date: Open Until Filled

College and Career Readiness Coach (12 months - Full time)

Salary Range: $17.35 - $20.17 per hour Closing Date: Open Until Filled Outreach Coordinator (12 months - Full time)

Salary Range: $17.35 - $20.17 per hour Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center (ELC) Lead Toddler Teacher (9.5 months)

Salary: $22.48 - $23.22/hour DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled Administrative Assistant - Education Division (12 months - Full time)

Salary: $16.97 - $19.58/hour DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Clinical Instructor /Clinical Resource Reg. Nurse Part Time Nursing Department (9-month term)

Salary: $35.00 per hour 14 hours per week Closing Date: Open Until Filled Nursing Clinical Resource Registered Nurse (CRRN) Asst. Instructor (10-month term)

Salary Range: Bachelor’s Degree - $45,178 - $48,677 DOEE Master’s Degree - $50,130 - $54,136 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Clinical Coordinator/Faculty (Full-time 10 months)

Salary Range: Bachelor’s Degree - $45,178 - $48,677 DOEE / Master’s Degree - $50,130 - $54,136 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Director of Human Resources (Full time)

Salary: $63,083 - $68,950 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

SKC Bookstore Director (12 months - Full time)

Salary : $40,789 - $45,483 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Career Services Coordinator (Full time - 10 months)

Salary Range (hourly): $18.28-20.02/hr DOE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

SKC Early Learning Center Assistant (Full time - 10 months)

Salary Range: $15.17-$15.99/hr DOEE Closing Date: December 30, 2022 4:00 PM

Custodian (Part time)

Salary Range: $13.21/hour Closing Date: Open until filled

Director of Academic Success

Salary: $44,310 - $45,656 DOEE Closing Date: January 27, 2023, 4:00 PM

SKC Wildlife and Fisheries Department, Field and Lab Research Coordinator

Salary: $20.17 - $23.56 per hour DOEE Closing Date: January 27, 2023, 4:00 PM

Administrative Assistant – Natural Resources Division

Salary: $16.97 - $18.28 DOEE Closing Date: January 27, 2023, 4:00 PM

To apply you must submit an SKC application, resume and applicable transcripts to Human Resources, P.O. Box 70, Pablo, MT 59855. Toll free 877.752.6553, ext. 4985 Direct Dial 406.275.4985/4977

Get

– earn

–make a difference!

News from Flathead Land Trust

COURTESY PHOTO

315-acre family farm in Mission Valley

areas and cultivated fields on the property provide habitat for a diverse array of birds. In fact, over one hundred bird species have been observed in the vicinity of the property. A group of 50 to 75 sandhill cranes regularly use the property as well as species of concern such as bobolink. The property is also adjacent to a 1,849-acre ranch protected with a conservation easement held by Montana Land Reliance that contains some of the grass-covered Valley View Hills. The grassy uplands on this neighboring conservation easement, combined with the moist lowlands of the family farm, provide nesting and feeding habitat for another species of concern, the longbilled curlew, which are also often seen on the property.

DPHHS: Take action to help prevent respiratory illnesses this winter

season’s hospitalizations occurred in December.

MONTANA — Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) officials are reporting substantial influenza (flu) activity during the first three months of this current flu season, from September through December 2022, that has far exceeded the prior fiveyear averages.

Since the week of Sept. 25 through Dec. 31, 2022, there have been 408 influenza-associated hospitalizations reported to DPHHS, well above the five-year season average of 88 hospitalizations for that same time frame. The five-year seasonal average for hospitalizations for an entire flu season is 669.

Flu season usually peaks in February and lasts through May; however, it can be unpredictable. Overall, DPHHS officials have observed earlier and more severe flu activity throughout the state so far this season.

A vast majority of this

Adults over the age of 65 are at higher risk for hospitalization, and currently make up the largest proportion of hospitalized Montanans.

There have been eight flu-associated deaths so far this season and 8,221 reported cases. The number of reported flu cases this season is also much higher than the five-year average of 850 total cases during the same time last year. The total average of reported flu cases over the past five seasons is 9,930.

DPHHS is encouraging all eligible Montanans to take action and get vaccinated against the flu in order to decrease their risk of becoming ill.

The flu vaccine is the best form of protection against serious complications of influenza infection, including severe disease, hospitalization, and death. And, it provides protection throughout the entire season. The composition of the vaccine is re-

viewed and updated yearly to better match circulating viruses. Preliminary reports for this year show it to be a good match.

In addition to flu, COVID-19 continues to circulate and together these respiratory viruses put a significant strain on Montana’s healthcare system.

“By preventing severe respiratory disease and associated hospitalizations, we preserve hospital capacity and allow these facilities to care for the Montanans who need it most,” said Dr. Maggie Cook-Shimanek, acting DPHHS State Medical Officer. “In addition to getting vaccinated, everyday prevention steps such as staying home from work or school if you are sick, staying away from sick people, covering your cough, and washing your hands with soap and water can reduce the spread of germs.”

Recent weeks have shown an increase in cases, hospitalizations,

and ICU admissions for COVID-related illness. There were 4,259 cases of COVID-19 reported between November 26 and December 23 of 2022, a 22% increase in cases compared to the previous four weeks. Montana averaged 70 active hospitalizations and nine ICU beds occupied a day due to COVID-19 between November 26 and December 23, a 19% and 13% increase compared to the previous four weeks, respectively.

During this same time period, there were 10 deaths due to COVID-19.

The bivalent COVID-19 booster vaccine is designed to protect against the original virus strain and Omicron variants of COVID-19. Omicron is the dominant COVID-19 variant that has been circulating in Montana over the past year. The bivalent booster vaccine is the best protection against COVID-19 and can help reduce the severity of illness for indi-

Smith River permit application deadline is Feb.15

a Smith River float trip.

GREAT FALLS – Permit applications to float the Smith River will be accepted through Feb. 15. The permit drawing will be held on Feb. 21.

Celebrated for its spectacular scenery, remote location and excellent fishing, floating the Smith River is one of Montana’s most sought-after outdoor recreation experiences. Permits are required to float the 59-mile section of river between Camp Baker and Eden Bridge and are issued each year through a lottery. Parties of up to 15 people can float with one permit. A person applying for a Smith River permit must be a minimum of 12 years of age at the time they submit their permit application. There is no age restriction to participate on

Applicants can apply for a Smith River float permit online through the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Online Licensing System, and pay a $15 non-refundable permit application fee. Successful Smith River applicants will be notified via email shortly after the lottery drawing is conducted on Feb. 21.

Links within the notification email to successful applicants will allow them to download and print their float permit, as well as access vital and detailed information regarding their upcoming Smith River float. Lottery results will also be available online at stateparks. mt.gov. Those who receive a permit will be contacted by phone two days prior to their scheduled launch date to complete the registration process, which includes

viduals who may become infected. For more information on COVID-19 in Montana, visit the DPHHS website.

The influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are readily available and can be administered at the same time to eligible individuals. It is important to remember that both the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines take about two weeks to provide protection.

Both the influenza and updated COVID-19 bivalent vaccines are available at doctor’s offices, county or tribal health departments, and many pharmacies. Visit: Vaccines.gov to find a location near you.

“Talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions about vaccines and to discuss which ones are right for you,” Dr. Cook-Shimanek said. “If you develop respiratory illness and have underlying health conditions that increase your risk for severe disease, ask your healthcare provider whether treatment is appropriate.”

declaring boat camps and paying the appropriate float fees.

In addition to the permit lottery, the public may purchase as many $5 Super Permit chances as they wish. Montana State Parks issues one Super Permit each year through a separate lottery. The recipient of the Super Permit will be allowed to launch on any date of their choosing for that float season.

The opportunity to purchase chances for the Smith River Super Permit will be available through March 23. The Super Permit drawing will take place on March 29. Super Permit chances may be purchased online through FWP’s Online Licensing System.

For more information about Smith River State Park visit: http://stateparks.mt.gov/smith-river/

News from DPHHS

News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

obituaries

Kenneth Petticrew

PORT TOWNSEND, WASHINGTONKenneth Gerald Petticrew, a member of the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes, passed away on Dec. 10, 2022, at Jefferson Health Care, Port Townsend, Washington, at age 67. He fought a hard fight after being diagnosed with bile duct cancer earlier this year.

He was born on Nov.

26, 1955, to mother Geraldine Bisson and father Edgar Petticrew. He grew up in the Mission Valley being the youngest of eight children. After graduating from Ronan High School, he attended cooking school. Later he traveled to Seattle where he made his home and lived for the past 37 plus years. He had various jobs and retired, due to health issues, as an Innkeeper at the Bishop and Swan Hotels in Port Townsend. Kenny’s Port Townsend family loved him and helped with transportation to and from doctors and hospital appointments and other loving as -

sistance. We say thank you and God Bless.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, Patricia Tryon, Phyllis Petticrew, Eugene Petticrew, Beverly Petticrew and Charlotte Petticrew.

Kenny is survived by his siblings, Robert Petticrew and Sharon Rosenbaum and special nephew, Kevin Adams, along with many other numerous nieces and nephews.

We will celebrate Kenny’s life with graveside services on May 16, 2023, at 1 p.m. at the Lake View Cemetery in Polson. Friends and family are welcome. Rest in peace little brother. We love you.

births

August Taylor

RONAN — August Lane Taylor was born on Dec. 29, 2022, at the St. Luke Community Healthcare New Beginnings Birth Center. He weighed 8 pounds, 9 ounces. Parents are Christopher Harvey and Janelle Taylor of Ronan. Maternal grandparents are Bruce and Sandy Taylor of Ronan. August joins his siblings, Donovan and Ayden.

Nova Simpson

RONAN - Nova Marie Simpson was born on Dec. 23, 2022, at the St. Luke New Beginnings Birth. She weighed 8 pounds, 2 ounces. Parents are Stefan Simpson and Ashton Buck of Ronan. Paternal grandparents are Craig Simpson and Patricia Tucker of New York. Maternal grandparents are Al Buck and Lolanda Sorrell of Ronan. Nova joins her sibling, Amaya.

Lake County December Marriages

Marriages

Mark Richard Gibbons and Kathryn Rae

Ryan

Jerald

Christopher

Jonathan

Cody

Jane

Reece

Matthew

No Divorces

Kenneth Petticrew

Hall

Thomas Todd and Felicia Maria Camp

Dean Beck and Tammie Ann Davis

D. Martin and Julie Moronuki

Cody Morton and Alexis Ann V. Barrow

Crabtree and Sherry Kohfeld

Tyler Makepeace and Koffi Innocent Adansa

Spencer Albert and Rachael Leigh Sword

C. Sundberg and Makaylin Marie Randall

August Taylor Nova Simpson

PUZZLES

8 “I” problem 9 ___ lab 10 Young woman 11 Funds 12 Idiotic 13 Unit of work or energy 14 South African land measurements 15 Language family that includes Finnish and Hungarian 16 Antenna housing 17 Slides 19 Condescending one 20 Arctic 22 Advanced slowly 27 Clouts (sl.) 30 Commotions 31 Hotel offering 33 African amulet 34 Swimming 36 Emblems of royalty 38 Receive 39 Japanese-American 40 Regal 44 Make over 45 Diminutive bone 48 Changes 49 Animal fat 50 Odd pages 51 Oater hero 52 Charades, e.g. 53 Mature 54 In the metric system, 1,000 kilograms 56 “Acid” 59 Gun, as an engine 60 Black, as la nuit 61 Infomercials, e.g. 63 17th letter of the Greek alphabet 1 5

Place the digits 1-9 in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains each digit once only. S O U T H C A R O L I N A P K O N E W M E X I C O K K Y Z K D J Y H Y C N S M E S H N D A A Y F Y U D N E N A R S J N P R Y O C I R O T R E U P A A N O E L A F L U B J R R G D L O L S N K O C E L M U D J M S R O A I X K N H B N N H B I I T C V I Y S I O N I L L I N E H A I N A V L Y S N N E P N D D W A S H I N G T O N D C E O A M A S S A C H U S E T T S H K Q I P P I S S I S S I M O R O C O N N E C T I C U T I T Y T A M E R I C A N S A M O A E A

1 5 4

3 7 9

WORDSEARCH US

Can you find all the listed words in the grid? Words may appear horizontally, vertically or diagonally, forwards

or backwards.

STATES AND TERRITORIES

64 Homer or Marge 69 Crosswise, on deck 70 Air freshener option 71 “Top Gun” pilot 72 Like some arms 73 Money, in slang 78 Kindergarten disrupters 79 ___ boom 82 Con 83 Allow to be known 85 Bordeaux grape 86 Tubes of muscle 88 Complex type 90 Opportunity 91 Dyes 92 Gets used (to) 93 10, for the base 10 number system 94 Henry Clay, for one 95 Fine table linen 96 Burst 100. Cross, maybe 102. Brews 103. Pipe problem 105 A deadly sin 108 Adam’s ___, water 110 French vineyard 111 Carpentry tool 112 “Malcolm X” director 113 Amazon, e.g. 9 5 4 3 2 6 4 2 5

AMERICAN SAMOA COLORADO CONNECTICUT GUAM ILLINOIS INDIANA KENTUCKY MASSACHUSETTS MINNESOTA

MISSISSIPPI NEBRASKA NEW MEXICO NORTH DAKOTA PENNSYLVANIA PUERTO RICO RHODE ISLAND SOUTH CAROLINA WASHINGTON DC

DOT-TO-DOT

Starting at 1, connect the dots in numerical order to complete the picture.

MIRROR IMAGE

Which of the four images below is the mirror image of the larger one to the right?

A B C D

SOLUTIONS

MIRROR IMAGE

Across: 1 Laredo, 7 Kedge, 12 Demurs, 18 Amelia, 19 Sign in, 20 Sororal, 21 Bulletin board, 23 Upgrade, 24 Ali, 25 Snob, 26 Lobby, 28 Glow, 29 Nests, 32 Coign, 35 Wiz, 36 Reims, 37 Thought transference, 41 Dire, 42 Ziti, 43 Frogs, 44 Rooted, 46 Gas, 47 Soya, 48 Mar, 51 Lessee, 52 Garnet, 55 Allude, 57 Ass, 58 Traditionalistic, 62 Whirs, 65 Emu, 66 Nod, 67 Adapt, 68 Machiavellianism, 74 Too, 75 Aplomb, 76 Ticker, 77 Obsess, 80 Née, 81 Peal, 84 Lei, 85 Morose, 86 Usage, 87 Ammo, 89 Elan, 90 Chromatic aberration, 96 Sheen, 97 Ion, 98 Nodal, 99 Scram, 101 Pant, 102 Annul, 104 Idol, 106 Ape, 107 Anneals, 109 Recapitulated, 114 Scarlet, 115 Earwax, 116 Señora, 117 Messes, 118 Skull, 119 Tetryl.

GIANT CROSSWORD

Down: 1 Laban, 2 Amulet, 3 Relish, 4 Ell, 5 Die, 6 Oats, 7 Kibbitz, 8 Ego, 9 DNA, 10 Girl, 11 Endows, 12 Dopy, 13 Erg, 14 Morgens, 15 Uralic, 16 Radome, 17 Slews, 19 Snoot, 20 Subzero, 22 Inched, 27 Biffs, 30 To-dos, 31 Suite, 33 Gri-gri, 34 Natant, 36 Regalia, 38 Greet, 39 Nisei, 40 Royal, 44 Reshape, 45 Ossicle, 48 Mutates, 49 Adipose, 50 Rectos, 51 Lawman, 52 Game, 53 Adult, 54 Tonne, 56 LSD, 59 Rev, 60 Noir, 61 Ads, 63 Rho, 64 Simpson, 69 Abeam, 70 Lilac, 71 Iceman, 72 Akimbo, 73 Moola, 78 Brats, 79 Sonic, 82 Against, 83 Let on, 85 Merlot, 86 Ureters, 88 Oedipal, 90 Chance, 91 Hennas, 92 Inures, 93 Radix, 94 Orator, 95 Napery, 96 Spasm, 100 Medal, 102 Ales, 103 Leak, 105 Lust, 108 Ale, 110 Cru, 111 Awl, 112 Lee, 113 Ant.

Polson

POLSON — The AARP Safe Driver Course will be held on Jan. 19 from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Polson Senior Center. Pre-registration is highly recommended and there is a $25 fee. You can receive a discount with a Polson Senior Center membership. There are no tests to take upon completion. Save money on car insurance and refresh yourself with new information on driving skills and safety.

We are developing a Facebook page, email list, guest WIFI, etc. for our members. Email us if you wish or sign up at the center.

The Polson Senior Center is open from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. on weekdays. Lunch is available from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. weekdays. To contact the Polson Senior Center call 406-883-4735, email: pol-

sonseniorcenter@gmail.com;  mail or visit us at 504 Third Ave. E.

Activities:

— Bowling Fun League: pay by the daynon-sanctioned, no-tap, Tuesdays, 1 p.m. weekly

— Bingo: regular bingo Friday at 7 p.m.; “playing card” bingo - first Wednesday and third Thursday of each month- help wanted

— Exercise: low impact M- W- F, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

— Pinochle: eat lunch at the center before cards Thursdays 12:15 – 3 p.m. (or later if you wish)

— Bridge: Tuesday and Friday, open for all, 12:30 p.m.

— Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. weekdays

— Veterans’ Rep:  The first Friday (Feb. 3) and third Tuesday (Jan. 17) from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.     Menu (subject to change): Sit-down, take-out, call before 10 a.m. for delivery, only $5 - serving

from 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.

— Wednesday, Jan. 11: tacos, soft shell, refried beans, salsa, Frito corn salad, bread pudding

— Thursday, Jan. 12: barbecue pork sandwich, baked beans, peas, veggie Jell-O, cookies  — Friday, Jan. 13: oven ham/cheese omelet, potato, onion, baked peaches, muffin, pea + bacon salad, straw/rhubarb dessert.

— Monday, Jan. 16: (Martin Luther King Day) corn chowder, cheesy bread, cottage cheese, mandarin oranges

— Tuesday, Jan. 17: beef tips on pasta, green beans, bread, baked pears, Tex-Mex slaw, cookies    — Wednesday, Jan.18: hot turkey sandwich, potatoes, gravy, buttered corn, 3-bean salad, raspberry fluff

— Thursday, Jan. 19: fish, mac ‘n cheese, peas, apple sauce, carrot-raisin salad, Jell-O

— Friday, Jan. 20:  Shepherd’s pie, stewed tomatoes, biscuit, green salad, fruit crisp

INCLUDE:

PANEL HEMOGLOBIN A1C TEST

News from Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

Thursday, Jan. 12

Masumola Clubhouse holds Bobby Burns

Night

POLSON — It’s January, and you know what that means -- It’s the return of Bobby Burns Night at the Masumola Clubhouse Thursday, Jan. 12. Join your hosts, Eve and Charlie Dixon, Mark and Shannon Nunlist and Dick Walsh for a celebration of the new year and poets long gone.

Expect pipers to usher in the haggis along with frivolity, fun and good cheer at this potluck dinner celebration. Suggested Food Distribution: A – H hot dish; I – O dessert; P – Z –salad or veggie. Remember your plates, utensils, and choice beverage. You can brave the cold commando style if you choose.

Since post-Covid attendance has been consistently lower than before, there is sure to be ample seating and ample food. Ample frivolity and ample good will as always.

Get up to speed on driving strategies

POLSON — AARP’s

Smart Driver Course will be taught on Thursday, Jan. 12, from 1-5 p.m. at the North Lake County Public Library. Class materials fee is $20 for AARP members or $25 for non-members. To register call 406-8838225 or go by the library. Get up to speed with the latest driving strategies, auto safety features and new state and local laws.

Lake County Public Library invites anyone who has ever colored at the library, or just always wanted to, to “The Big Reunion” Coloring Program on Jan. 17 in the library’s meeting room at 1 p.m.

Cutthroat Volleyball tryouts, registration to begin

Wednesday, Jan. 18

Cutthroat Volleyball tryouts, registration to begin

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

January SPLASH meeting from 5-7 p.m. The public is invited. Meet the agency’s new Executive Director, Lori Thibodeau.

day only. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The race starts at 11 a.m. and awards are given out at 2 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 16

Cutthroat Volleyball tryouts, registration to begin

POLSON — Tryouts for the 2023 Cutthroat Volleyball season will take place at the Polson Boys & Girls Club, 110 17th Ave. W from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on Jan. 16 &17 from 12 year old students.

Please bring a water bottle, knee pads (if you have them), and athletic shoes for tryouts. If you have any questions please email us at: cutthroatvolleyballclub@gmail.com

Tuesday, Jan. 17

Library holds ‘The Big Reunion’

POLSON — The North

POLSON — Tryouts for the 2023 Cutthroat Volleyball season will take place at the Polson Boys & Girls Club, 110 17th Ave. W from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on Jan. 17 &18 from 13 year old students.

Please bring a water bottle, knee pads (if you have them), and athletic shoes for tryouts.

If you have any questions please email us at: cutthroatvolleyballclub@gmail.com

POLSON — Tryouts for the 2023 Cutthroat Volleyball season will take place at the Polson Boys & Girls Club, 110 17th Ave. W from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on Jan. 18 &19 from 14 year old students. Please bring a water bottle, knee pads (if you have them), and athletic shoes for tryouts. If you have any questions please email us at: cutthroatvolleyballclub@ gmail.com

Thursday, Jan. 19

Agency on Aging to host SPLASH

POLSON — The Western MT Agency on Aging, 110 Main Street, Suite 5, will host the

Agriculture,

it's in our nature

Saturday, Jan. 21

‘Sorry Bout That’ Half Marathon, Team Relay

on tap

POLSON — Polson Running will hold their ‘Sorry Bout That Half Marathon and Team Relay” on Saturday, Jan. 21 starting at 309 Ridgewater Dr. The course will be clockwise this year. If you wear a costume you get a .30 second head start. Packet pickup is the same

Monday, Jan. 23

Library hosts author book signing

POLSON — On Monday, Jan. 23, at 5:30 p.m., the North Lake County Public Library will host a book signing for Milana Marsenich whose latest release is “Beautiful Ghost,” the sequel to “Copper Sky.” The new book is about the fall of 1918 as the influenza pandemic reaches Butte.

Locally Led, Commonsense Conservation

Conservation Districts work with Montana farmers and ranchers to share innovative conservation practices. Learn more about Conservation Districts and what you can do to help. Visit montanaconservation.org

Announcements

Special Notices

FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-866-585-6456

Wanted

WANTED TO BUY

Guns and/or ammunition, old or new.

Whole estates/collections or single pieces. Fair prices paid. 406-207-4641

Employment

Help wanted

Job Opportunity – Eagle Bank Customer Service Supervisor and New Accounts Specialist The Customer Service Supervisor is responsible for ensuring branch operational activities run smoothly and efficiently by providing leadership and support to the Customer Service Representatives. New Account Specialist processes and/or oversees all aspects of the deposit accounts to include but not limited to opening, boarding, and servicing. Must consistently apply sound decision-making techniques and ensure compliance with existing policies and procedures, while looking for opportunities to improve efficiencies. Reinforce superior customer service and a positive branch environment through own example.

Full time position of (40) hours per week

Location – Eagle Bank –80 Heritage Lane, Polson MT Salary – Depending on experience

Closing Date – Wednes-

26 - January 11, 2023

day Jan. 25, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m. Minimum of five years of banking experience is required. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Should possess in-depth knowledge of banking regulations and ability to assess and address compliance risks for various bank products and services, customer types, and banking transactions. Eagle Bank will provide an employment preference to members of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, to members of other federally recognized Native American tribes and to members of Alaska Native Corporations.

To apply, contact Jolene Houle, Chief Financial Officer, 80 Heritage Lane, Polson, MT 59860; (406) 872-2189 phone, (406) 883-2949 fax; www.eaglebankmt.com

PROGRAM HYDROLOGIST (MAY BE EMPLOYED UNDER CONTRACT) NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must possess a Master’s of Science with three (3) years of relevant professional-level experience or Bachelor’s of Science with a minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional-level experience. Education must be in the field of hydrologic sciences, engineering, agricultural sciences, soil sciences, or closely related physical science field with emphasis on surface or groundwater hydrology. Education and experience must demonstrate analytical and quantitative aptitude. Possession of a valid state driver’s license with the ability to obtain a Montana driver’s license within six (6) months. Must have liability or full coverage insurance on personal vehicle (if used to travel off-site in performance of duties). Must wear Tribal government identification and safety apparel when conducting field activities. Required to successfully complete a certified defensive driving course approved by the Department every three (3) years thereafter. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application,

copies of relevant transcripts and/or certificates, a copy of a valid driver’s license and current proof of liability or full coverage insurance, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $26.16 to $30.07 per hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. This position will close on Thursday, February 2, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

IRRIGATION ENGINEER I NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must possess, at a minimum, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering,

Construction Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Hydrology, Geology, Hydro-geology, or other related Engineering degree from an accredited Engineering College with emphasis in one or more of the following areas: construction engineering, construction project management, irrigation infrastructure design, hydraulics, hydrology, geotechnical engineering, and design of irrigation infrastructure. Must possess an Engineer Intern (EI) license or ability to acquire in 6 months. A Professional Engineering (PE) license is preferred. Must maintain a current and valid Montana driver’s license during employment. Must wear Tribal provided safety apparel as required. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copy of relevant transcripts and/or training certificates, a copy of a valid driver’s license, completed background supplemental questionnaire, proof of Tribal enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference

a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is negotiable dependent on experience. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Enviro-Tire is hiring for 1 CDL driver. This position is open immediately. No tire loading, drop and hook only. CDL Class A truck driver with doubles endorsement for Montana, Idaho and Washington day runs. Home every night. Work site is in Lonepine, Mt. Year-round, full-time

position. Pay $25.00 per hour for experienced, qualified drivers. Mandatory DOT drug testing. Vacation & holiday pay. Office phone and fax (406) 755-7716. enviro-tire@ montanasky.com

Director, Extension Nutrition Education, full time, Bozeman. Responsible for overall leadership and management of the Nutrition Education grant programs, including overall grant, personnel and budget management in the state of Montana. Master’s degree required. Complete information and how to apply at montana.edu/extension, click on “Careers.” Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.

classifieds

Animals

Public Notices

Attorneys at Law

312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367 jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: MARILYN DOLORES SALOMON, Deceased.

Vehicles

Miscellaneous

INVENTORY CLEARANCE SALE

Auto /Truck Starters and Alternators. 305 units, all remanufactured and tested for earlier vehicles, prior to 2000. Closing business. Selling off all rebuilt starters and alternators at 55% off. If your car or truck is 1997 or older, at this price you can afford to have a spare. I have them for the following cars and trucks:

Acura, General Motors, Mitsubishi, AMC, Honda, Nissan, Audi, Hyundai, Opal, BMW, Isuzu, Saturn, Chevrolet, Jeep, Sterling, Chrysler, Lincoln, Subaru, Datsun, Luv, Suzuki, Dodge, Mazda, Toyota, Eagle, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Ford, Mercury

Call Jerry at 406-207-4641.

Legals

Legals

Montana 20th Judicial District Court, Lake County

In the matter of the Name Change of Devyn James Frank; Devyn James Frank, Petitioner.

Cause No: DV-22-215 Dept. No. 2002

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Devyn James Frank to Devyn James Campbell. The hearing will be on Jan. 19, 2023, at 10:00 am. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Lake County. Date: Dec. 9, 2022.

Lyn Fricker Clerk of District Court

By: Mary Rensvold Deputy Clerk of Court

Dec. 21, 28, 2022 and Jan. 4, 11, 2023

MNAXLP

Cause No.: DP-22-97

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and that the address of the Personal Representative is set forth below.

All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate must present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice, or be forever barred as creditors of the decedent.

A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of the District Court, at Polson, Lake County, Montana, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to the Personal Representative, c/o TURNAGE MERCER & WALL, PLLP, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at 312 1st St. E, Polson, MT 59860.

/s/ Katie Cherlyn Harding Katie Cherlyn Harding

Personal Representative Estate of Marilyn Dolores Salomon, Deceased.

Jan. 4, 11 and 18, 2023

MNAXLP

Kalmbach Law Office, PLLC Justin Kalmbach, Esq. PO Box 249 1 Fifth Avenue West

Polson, MT 59860

Telephone: (406) 883-1159

Fax: (406) 883-1497

Email: justin@polsonlegal.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN RE THE ESTATE OF: JEFFREY JAY ANDREWS, Deceased.

Cause No. DP-22-94

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to Michele Andrews, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o Kalmbach Law Office, PLLC, PO Box 249, Polson, MT 59860 or filed with the Clerk of the above Court.

Dated this 9th day of December, 2022.

/s/ Michele Andrews

Personal Representative

C/O Kalmbach Law Office, PLLC 1 5th Ave. W. Polson, MT 59860

Jan. 4, 11, and 18, 2023 MNAXLP

John A. Mercer

Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL - Mental Health Therapist & Behavioral Consultant

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) Early Childhood Services

The CSKT Early Childhood Services Department is requesting bids for Mental Health Therapy and Behavioral Consulting services for February 2023 to September 30, 2024.

Scope of work: CSKT Early Childhood Services has an enrollment of up to 300 children ranging from 0 to 5 years of age. Head Start/ Early Head Start locations are on the Flathead Reservation – 1 center in Polson, 1 center in Turtle Lake, 2 centers in Pablo,3 centers in Ronan, 2 centers in Mission and 1 center in Arlee. ECS also services children not enrolled in Head Start or Early Head Start centers.

The Mental Health Therapist/Behavioral Consultant will provide culturally sensitive and primarily direct/indirect services for children, families and staff. Services include capacity building for staff and family members, directly observing children and the caregiving environment, and designing interventions that involve changes in the behaviors of caregivers. The consultant will collaborate with administrators, staff, family members, and caregivers who intervene directly with children in all settings. The Consultant will promote social and emotional development in children and transform children’s challenging behaviors.

Services provided by consultant will include:

• Conduct individual child and classroom observations and provide written documentation to Admin.

• Design and implement program practices responsive to the identified needs of an individual child

• Support staff with individual child behavior and classroom management

• Provide one-on-one modeling or coaching for individual child support

• Provide crisis intervention services for staff regarding a child’s behavior

• Advise and assist staff in linking to community resources

and services

• Provide support for reflective practices

• Offer training on behavior management techniques

• Educate parents on children’s mental health issues

• Refer parents for community mental health services

• Conduct home visits

• Advocate for parents

• Evaluate the center or learning environment

• Suggest strategies for making the environment prosocial

• Train staff on behavior management techniques

• Train staff on accessing mental health resources

• Educate staff on children’s mental health issues

• Provide support for reflective practices

• Promote staff wellness

• Address communication within the program

• Promote team building

• Participate in staff meetings

• Train staff on cultural competence

• Address programmatic issues

• Design and implement early childhood mental health best practices within the program

• Consult with the director

• Identify and address program needs

• Advise on program policy

The Mental Health Therapist/Behavioral Consultant will be coordinating with the ECS Special Services Manager and/or Mental Health Coordinator on referrals for children and/or families to receive services. The Mental Health Consultant will bill any costs to Medicaid or private insurance first and Early Childhood Services will be invoiced as payor of last resort.

The Mental Health services will be needed for 20-40 hours per week.

Proposal requirements: Proposals must include

1.) Professional license in the area of Mental Health Therapy and Behavioral Consulting services. Documented specialized knowledge. Relevant work experience must be shown in a resume or curriculum vitae, including outline of qualifications and appropriate credentials (copies of professional license, specialized training, etc.), and professional references. All personnel must have a current license or have their professional license within 6 months of contract.

2.) Ability to commit 20-40 hrs per week to the provision of this service.

3.) Proof of liability insurance or proof that the individual is an independent contractor.

4.) Proof of Workman’s Comp or exemption certificate.

5.) Description of recent experience in doing this type of work.

6.) Detailed description of cost required to provide this service. Responses should be clear in terms of incidental costs, as well as hourly rates, travel expenses, etc.

Proposals must be received by 4:30 on Thursday, January 19, 2023. Mailing address: Early Childhood Services- - PO Box 1510 –St. Ignatius, MT 59865, ATTN: CARRIE ANTOINE-Mental Health Therapist and Behavioral Consultant BID.

The proposals will be reviewed with a decision made in the 5 to 10 working days after bid closing.

Scope This is an Indian Preference Proposal. We reserve the right to refuse any or all bids. For more information call Carrie Antoine at 406-745-4509 ext. 5506 or Jody Jones at ext. 5520.

Indian Preference Certification

This is an Indian preference bid and Tribal contractors who wish to receive Indian preference must obtain a certification by the Indian preference office as a legitimate Indian-owned business prior to submission of the bids. This certification must be included with your RFP response.

The selection of the successful contractor and award of this project will be per the provisions of the CSKT Indian Preference Ordinance 101A. It is the sole responsibility of the bidder/respondent to obtain and provide proof of Indian Preference certification from the Indian Preference Office.

All proposals will become the property of the CSKT Early Childhood Services. The Tribes reserve the right to accept and reject and negotiate any element of any proposals received.