01-15-25 issue

Montana’s agricultural tax rules slash bills for thousands of million-dollar homes

Properties classified as agricultural get a tax break worth hundreds or thousands of dollars annually. Lawmakers could tighten qualification requirements this year.

by Nick Bowlin, High Country News and Eric Dietrich, Montana Free Press

Onthe banks of the Flathead River, along an oxbow southeast of Kalispell, a pair of million-dollar homes sit adjacent to each other on large lots. At a glance, they appear quite similar, each the sort of rural dream house that has become an inescapable part of Montana’s landscape. A look at their tax bills, though, reveals a difference, the result of a singular quirk of Montana’s tax code.

A red Mission Valley barn stands out in a snow covered landscape. Loopholes in tax codes aimed to encourage farming and ranching and preserve Montana's agricultural character have benefitted thousands of luxury real estate properties.

One of the two parcels, like most homes in Montana, is classified as residential property. The other, however, is designated agricultural, a category that qualifies it for a tax discount worth thousands of dollars a year.

The residential property includes a 2,893-square-foot house and several outbuildings on a 10-acre lot. In 2023, the land was worth $585,000 and the buildings just over $1 million, according to state records. The property tax bill was

about $9,100. Next door, the agricultural property, also 10 acres, contains a 3,673-square-foot home along with garages, a dock and other structures, together valued at $1.2 million. A Zillow listing, which indicates that the property was last sold in 2018 and was later available for rent, describes it as a “gorgeous Montana river estate” with a boathouse, a putting green and an orchard. This property’s 2023 tax bill,

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

which was mailed to an address in Florida, was about $2,100 lower than that of its neighbor.

If you exclude the taxes levied on all the structures, including the home, the owner of the residential property paid an effective rate of $331 an acre in 2023, an amount similar to nearby residential parcels. Meanwhile, the neighboring agricultural property — putting green and all — paid just $2 an acre.

The discrepancy is the byproduct of a tax system designed to encourage farming and ranching and preserve Montana’s agricultural character by taxing agricultural property at much lower effective rates. Unlike most other properties, agricultural land is valued not for its likely selling price, but rather for its agricultural production potential. In recent decades, however, as Montana’s luxury real estate sector has grown, the line between bona fide agricultural operations and high-end residential properties has become increasingly blurry.

Montana Free Press and High Country News analyzed state property data, combined with public records and aerial imagery, and found that thousands of million-dollar homes benefit from the agricultural tax provision. As of 2023, the most recent year for which detailed data is available from the Montana Department of Revenue, the analysis found that at least 1,882 million-dollar homes received a tax break as fully qualified agricultural property, while at least 1,338 others got a lesser discount through a partial agricultural designation.

MTFP and HCN estimate that residential properties smaller than 20 acres had their underlying land taxed at a median effective rate of $1,608 per acre in 2023, while similar properties with a full agricultural designation paid just $6.61.

While those million-dollar properties appear to comply with Montana’s tax law, they illustrate what critics consider the system’s failure to tax luxury real estate fairly. More than half of the properties were located in Gallatin, Flathead, Park and Ravalli counties, all parts of western Montana that have become epicenters of the state’s real estate boom.

Many of the owners who get agricultural tax treatment for high-value properties are prominent professionals engaged in non-agricultural careers, including a former Goldman Sachs executive, the CEO of a billion-dollar food service corporation and Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte, a former technology executive. Because of how Montana’s tax system divides the cost of local government services, most of their savings translate into higher bills for other taxpayers.

With the 2025 Montana Legislature open as of Jan. 6, both Republican and Democratic lawmakers say they want to tackle rising residential property taxes, which saddled homeowners with a median increase of 21% between 2022 and 2023 following the pandemic-era surge in housing prices. Some lawmakers also say they want to pass bills that would make the agricultural tax system more equitable.

Brian Campbell, who runs

a cherry orchard and a growers’ co-op on Flathead Lake, would certainly welcome tax reform. In an interview, he said he’s annoyed by the owners of nearby expensive properties who produce just enough agricultural income to qualify for agricultural tax status, clearing a threshold that’s currently set at only $1,500.

“There’s people that totally take advantage of this and treat it as just a big loophole in the system,” he said.

The agricultural tax issue has simmered in the state Capitol for decades without producing a politically viable solution. A bill that would have tied agricultural tax benefits to federal farm aid eligibility, for example, was voted down during Montana’s 2023 legislative session, spurring its supporters to form a working group to develop more refined proposals for 2025. During a meeting of the group in February, Rep. Mark Thane, D-Missoula, read aloud from a decades-old state memo prepared in 2001.

“‘Some buyers are purchasing large ranches for their American dream and taking land out of agricultural production,’” Thane read.

He looked up from the memo at his colleagues, who were seated around two long tables in a Department of Revenue meeting room. “Twenty-four years ago,” he said, “that

Owners of Montana, who was part of the working group. “As you drive around the state, our ag properties are one of the things that make the state beautiful.”

prompted individuals to take a look at this very issue, and here we are, still looking at this issue.”

Many Western states give farms and ranches special tax treatments and have encountered similar headaches. In Wyoming, for example, a proposal in the state Legislature to increase the revenue threshold for an agricultural tax break went nowhere in 2022. And a 2011 Denver Post story about a proposal to overhaul Colorado’s agricultural tax system noted that the issue had “vexed” state politicians for “decades.”

Those debates are sticky in part because of how tax policy can guide the way land is used across the West. Tax rates help determine whether suburban and rural land is used for farming or ranching, preserved for conservation purposes, or developed into housing and businesses. Proponents of agricultural tax benefits argue that they help keep such land undeveloped and protect farmers and ranchers from often-uncertain commodity markets.

“There’s an argument that all Montanans benefit from having a vibrant ag economy in Montana, not just for the economic benefits of it being Montana’s largest industry, but it has cultural value for us as Montanans,” said Chuck Denowh, a lobbyist and executive director of the United Property

Montana’s tax code, though, is unique in that it allows many properties to qualify for agricultural tax benefits without requiring proof that they are used for agricultural purposes. Colorado, Wyoming, Washington, Oregon and the Dakotas all require landowners to submit applications showing some combination of crop, grazing or land-leasing income.

In contrast to other states, any Montana property larger than 160 acres automatically qualifies for the full agricultural tax status, whether or not it demonstrates farm or ranch income. Many mid-sized rural properties — those between 20 and 160 acres — also automatically qualify for a partial agricultural classification, even if they don’t report enough farm or ranch income to qualify for the full tax break. That policy is unique to Montana, according to state analysts.

Additionally, the annual production-income threshold that qualifies smaller properties for full agricultural status — currently just $1,500 — represents a low bar for well-off property owners to clear. It hasn’t been updated since 1986.

Campbell, who was also a member of the working group, pointed out that a property owner can make $1,500 a year from just a handful of cherry trees. Around Flathead Lake, for example, where planting cherry trees on high-value land is common, the cost of maintaining a few trees is quickly offset by the tax savings.

“That’s obviously the

Advertise here!

This Week’s Weather Forecast

Boone Goddard

Advertising Sales, Owner (406) 249-1728 boone@valleyjournal.net

The Valley Journal newspaper (PE 23-190) is published weekly by Valley Journal LLC. Periodicals postage paid at Ronan, MT.

Business hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Distribution is by mail subscription ($59 per year in Lake County, MT; $74 per year elsewhere in U.S.) and by newsstand sales. Postmaster: send address changes to Valley Journal, P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT. 59864.

Your homegrown newspaper serves residents of Lake

Summer Goddard

Publisher, Owner (406) 249-1793 summer@valleyjournal.net

County and the Flathead Indian Reservation.

Deadline for display advertising is 2 p.m. Thursday. Deadline for news submissions, calendar items, classifieds and legal advertising is noon Friday, for the following week’s newspaper.

News, letters to the editor and calendar submissions may be sent by email to: vjeditor@valleyjournal.net. Classified and legal advertisements requests should be emailed to: vjmail@valleyjournal.net.

All print subscriptions include full access to online news,

And find us online for more photos, videos, breaking news and special sections!

Kathi Beeks

Office Manager, Copy Editor (406) 676-8989 vjmail@valleyjournal.net news@valleyjournal.net

archives. Sign up online at: www.valleyjournal.net/ subscribe

For general inquiries: call 406-676-8989, email summer@valleyjournal.net, or send mail correspondence to P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT 59864. Copyright 2025, the Valley Journal. All rights reserved. Reproduction, reuse or transmittal in any form or by any means is prohibited without written permission of the Valley Journal.

Snowpack rebounds after slow start to winter season

News from USDA

BOZEMAN — Water year 2025 got off to a dry start in the mountains of Montana and northern Wyoming with minimal precipitation recorded across the region for the first half of October. Moisture arrived in mid-October, but abnormally warm temperatures meant it fell primarily as rain or a mix of rain and snow, even at upper elevations. For most basins, the first snow at all elevations occurred late October. November brought a mixture of snowstorms that benefitted the mountains of southwest and northwest Montana, while drier conditions were experienced elsewhere. “Dry conditions persisted for the first half of December throughout most of Montana until the tide began to turn just before the New Year with a true winter system bringing much needed snow to the region,” said Eric Larson, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Hydrologist.

The brunt of the winter storm arrived on Dec. 26 and lasted through the end of the year, however a series of smaller storms continued through the first week in January. In general, precipitation totaled 2-5 inches through Jan.7 across the highest elevations in western Montana. “Snow depth increased by approximately 20-40 inches at those elevations, which nearly doubled the snowpack at most locations,” said Larson. Noisy Basin SNOTEL in the northern Swan Range

“Dry conditions persisted for the first half of December throughout most of Montana until the tide began to turn just before the New Year with a true winter system bringing much needed snow to the region. ”

- Eric Larson, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Hydrologist

has received about 9.5 inches of precipitation since December 26 and on December 31 reached 97 inches of depth, a new record high for that date. Northern Wyoming basins and the Upper Clark Fork of Montana received slightly less snow from the recent storm and have slightly larger snowpack deficits to overcome. Despite recent snow accu-

mulation, snowpack percentages remain slightly below normal across most of Montana. As of Jan. 7, Montana’s snowpack ranges from 63% of median in the Powder River basin to 105% in the Flathead. Other basins with near normal conditions include the Smith-Judith-Musselshell, Gallatin, Madison, Bitterroot, Lower Clark Fork, Kootenai,

Celebrate excellence in Polson

Nominations open for 2024 Community Awards

POLSON — The Polson Chamber of Commerce is calling on our community to recognize the extraordinary individuals, businesses, and organizations making a difference in Polson. These awards honor those who have generously given their time, energy, and resources to positively impact our community in 2024.

Award categories:

Polson Leadership Award: Recognizes outstanding leadership and dedication to community betterment.

and Flathead. All other basins are currently reporting 60-80% of median snowpack conditions. Regardless of the region, there is still a significant portion of winter ahead, and snowpack conditions can change substantially between now and when they are most critical. In Montana, the mountain snowpack generally peaks in April, and conditions at that time will provide a more accurate indicator of the upcoming spring snowmelt season.

A full report of conditions on Jan. 1 can be found in the monthly Water Supply Outlook Report available on the Montana Snow Survey website. In addition, real-time snow survey data can be found at: nrcs.usda.gov/montana/snow-survey.

Citizen of the Year: Honors a visionary and service-driven individual who uplifts Polson through integrity and voluntary efforts.

Volunteer of the Year: Celebrates a passionate volunteer whose contributions have enriched our community.

Non-Profit Organization of the Year: Highlights a non-profit excelling in resource development and community support.

Business of the Year: Acknowledges a Chamber member business that demonstrates exceptional commitment to Polson’s growth and well-being.

Deadline for Nominations: Feb. 1, 2025

Self-nominations are welcome. Ensure your nomination forms are complete to be considered. Let’s shine a light on those who make Polson a thriving and vibrant community. Nominate today and show your appreciation for their contributions.

News from the Polson Chamber of Commerce

COURTESY PHOTO

Families attend Title VI Winter Family Engagement Night

By Betsy Wade Polson School District

POLSON — Prior to winter break, over 150 attendees gathered in the Polson High School Cafeteria for the Polson School District Title VI Winter Family Engagement Night, an evening celebrating culture, creativity, and community. Organized by the district’s Title VI Parent Advisory Committee, the event provided space for families to connect and engage in meaningful activities.

The event featured a variety of hands-on activities, including painting tree cookies, weaving pine cones, creating paper sack cradleboards, crafting sachet pouches with essential oils, and making round-nosed canoe ornaments. Participants also enjoyed bracelet-making, a candy cane hunt, coloring, and exploring a northern lights time lapse through VR headsets.

The event’s success

was bolstered by contributions from Polson School District students and staff. Many volunteers worked together to prepare materials and guide activities, ensuring families could fully enjoy the experience. Attendees were also treated to a baked potato bar dinner prepared by Polson School District Food Service, which added to the evening’s inviting atmosphere.

This annual event underscores Polson School

District’s commitment to honoring the cultural heritage of its American Indian and Alaska Native students through Title VI initiatives. By offering opportunities for all PSD families to gather and participate in enriching activities, the district continues to foster community engagement and cultural awareness. Polson School District extends its gratitude to all who attended and contributed to making the evening memorable.

Torrin

Ellis named to Fall 2024 Dean’s List at Dickinson State University

DICKINSON, NORTH DAKOTA

— Torrin Ellis of Ronan, has been named to Dickinson State University’s Dean’s List for the 2024 fall semester. At the end of each regular semester, Dickinson State recognizes those students named to the Dean’s List. Eligible students must be enrolled fulltime and must earn a 3.5 GPA or higher. The University’s mission is to provide high-quality accessible programs, promote excellence in teaching and learning, support scholarly and creative activities, and to provide services relevant to the economy, health and quality of life for the citizens of North Dakota.

SKC’s Postsecondary Success Program wins recognition

News from Salish Kootenai College

PABLO - The U.S. Department of Education (Department) recently announced the winners of the first-ever Postsecondary Success Recognition Program (PSRP). Launched in April 2024 by U.S. Secretary of Education

Miguel Cardona, the program celebrates institutions of higher education that are enrolling underserved student populations, facilitating successful student transfers and completions, and equipping graduates for careers that lead to economic mobility.

“Imagine a world where schools with the most Pell Grant recipients are ranked highest, where ‘prestige’ is defined by preparing graduates well to enter the workforce and lead fulfilling lives and careers—some -

times right in their own communities. Imagine universities that are raising the bar for access and equity becoming household names. This award envisions a world where that is possible,” said Secretary Cardona. “Instead of giving schools high marks for the number of students they turn down, we want to recognize schools doing the most to lift students up.”

“The six colleges and universities honored as winners represent a cross-section of institutions serving diverse student populations, communities, and missions. Located in rural, suburban, and urban areas across the country, these schools demonstrate excellence in advancing student success while supporting equitable outcomes for all of their students.

“The 2025 Postsecondary Success Recognition Program winners among

“We

give.” - Winston Churchill

predominantly associate degree or certificate granting institutions are:

- CUNY Hostos Community College (New York) (Transfer Focus)

-Miami Dade College (Florida) (Career Focus)

- Salish Kootenai College (Montana) (Career/Transfer Focus)

“Salish Kootenai College (SKC) is a public, primarily associate degree granting institution chartered by the Tribal Council of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Indian Reservation in Western Montana. SKC serves over 600 students with nearly 80% underserved students of color and over 65% of students receiving Pell Grants. At SKC, 68% of students transfer or graduate within eight years, and students earn more than high school graduates in the state on average after college.

SKC views their commitment to student success as critical to economic development, community sustainability, and tribal sovereignty for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and the more than 60 tribes represented among their student population. SKC practices a holistic network approach to student support providing academic, basic needs, and career services through a coordinated CARE team. “At SKC, promotion of a culture of success is the work of the whole college – every employee, every day,” the college noted in its application. As a business major and member of the Couer d’Alene Tribe of Idaho, student Marie Aripa credits her success to SKC’s “emphasis and commitment to culture and creating a space for students like me to feel supported in the pursuit of higher learning.”’

motivation behind a lot of little orchards up here,” he said.

Montana has about 326,000 non-vacant residential parcels. In comparison, more than 77,000 Montana taxpayers benefit from either the full or partial agricultural tax status of their property, which encompasses more than 50 million acres of land, according to the state revenue department. MTFP and HCN estimate that residential properties smaller than 20 acres had their underlying land taxed at a median effective rate of $1,609 per acre in 2023, while similar properties with a full agricultural designation paid just $6.61.

One Montana property that benefits from the full agricultural tax break is Gov. Gianforte’s longtime home on the outskirts of Bozeman. The governor and his family own several parcels there, along the East Gallatin River, including an 11.4-acre property with a house and detached garage that is currently valued by the revenue department at $1.3 million.

The Gianfortes’ tax bill for that parcel — about $7,400 in 2023, according to county tax records — briefly became election season fodder when the campaign of the governor’s unsuccessful Democratic challenger, Ryan Busse, published a video interview with the owner of a neighboring property who expressed tearful frustration that her tax bill was rising faster than the governor’s. Her property, which also sits along the East Gallatin, includes two dwellings valued at $1.5 million on a 10.2-acre parcel classified as residential land.

Key Takeaways

1. Agricultural tax status offers farm and ranch properties a discount relative to residential properties by marking down the value of the underlying land.

2. The agricultural discount can translate into hundreds or thousands of dollars in annual tax savings.

It received a tax bill of about $12,200 in 2023, including approximately $826 per acre in taxes on the land.

Meanwhile, right across the street, the governor paid taxes at $5.75 an acre for his property. Thanks to his agricultural designation, Gianforte’s total land tax in 2023 was about $66 for his 11-acre property. The state’s tax rolls included about 176,000 residential properties with homes on town or city lots that year, most less than a quarter-acre; HCN and MTFP estimate that 97% of their owners paid more land taxes than the governor.

Montana’s public records office denied an open records request for the application materials used to justify the Gianforte property’s agricultural status last year, saying they contained income information that the revenue department was required to keep confidential. A spokesperson for the governor’s office said in early December that land owned by Gianforte and his wife, Susan, rotates between irrigated barley and alfalfa production and is also used to board horses and mules. The spokesperson did not answer questions regarding the amount of agricultural income generated by those activities or whether the governor supports changes to the state’s agricultural tax structure.

3. Critics worry that it’s too easy for high-end real estate to qualify for agricultural tax benefits.

4. Thousands of mil-

The partial agricultural status available to mid-sized properties without demonstrated agricultural income — formally known as “non-qualified” agricultural land — has been a source of intense debate since its implementation in 1993. The Legislature has loosened qualification requirements for partial status over time, thereby benefiting more property owners in platted subdivisions. As of 2023, roughly 30,000 Montana taxpayers benefited from the category’s tax treatment, according to the revenue department.

A 2022 Montana Department of Revenue report demonstrates the difference that even a partial agricultural status can make. In one case, in southwest Montana’s Beaverhead County, department staff identified a situation where a 19.03-acre parcel, just under the threshold to qualify, owed $942 in taxes, while an adjacent 20.09-acre parcel, just over the threshold, owed only $482. Meanwhile, in Gallatin County, a vacant 19.989-acre lot owed $5,821 in taxes, while a nearby vacant lot of 20.011 acres owed just $168.

Because the partial agricultural designation provides substantial tax benefits to tens of thousands of property owners, however, efforts to repeal it have met with powerful politi-

lion-dollar Montana homes are benefiting from the ag tax treatment. Gov. Greg Gianforte’s Bozeman home is one of them.

emption would increase the average qualifying property’s annual tax bill from $3.84 to $42.75 an acre — a $1,167 increase for a 30-acre property. In exchange, the department says, the median residential tax bill would decrease by a mere $33 a year.

cal headwinds.

In 2017, for example, a bill to repeal the category, sponsored by Greg Hertz, then a state representative and now the chair of the Montana Senate’s Taxation Committee, drew so much blowback that he withdrew the proposal before its first committee hearing.

Hertz and fellow Republican lawmaker Jeff Essmann, who also worked on agricultural taxation bills that year, recalled that both efforts were deluged with opposition. And Essmann said he expects similar political dynamics to erupt again.

“[Tens of thousands of] people that are suddenly going to have to pay market rate on their homes, or do some work to qualify as ag, can generate a lot of phone calls to representatives and kill a bill pretty fast,” said Essmann, who is no longer in the Legislature.

“It’s hard when somebody’s got a sweet deal to remove it — that’s just the reality of life,” he added. “But it is a very sweet deal.”

Additionally, while eliminating the exemption would raise taxes dramatically for those property owners who currently benefit, it would lower them only slightly for other taxpayers.

An analysis by the revenue department estimates that eliminating the partial ag ex-

That’s enough, Hertz said, to convince him the Legislature should just leave the designation alone.

“You’re saving somebody a dollar, but increasing somebody’s taxes by several thousand,” Hertz said. “To me, that just doesn’t make sense.”

Neil Cornish, a professor of astrophysics at Montana State University, illustrates the tricky ways that current tax policy and possible changes can affect individual taxpayers. In 2020, Cornish bought a former cattle ranch in the Shields Valley, outside the small town of Clyde Park. At the time, it was just under 160 acres, and since Cornish neither farms nor ranches, it qualified for the partial agricultural designation.

Cornish, who said the classification initially struck him as “a bit of a weird thing,” recently did a boundary adjustment with his neighbor, boosting his property to just over 160 acres. He did so in order to qualify for an antelope hunting tag that’s available to larger agricultural landowners.

But that seemingly minor adjustment meant that his property now automatically qualified for the agricultural tax break for properties over 160 acres. As a result, he said, his property taxes went “down by a decent amount.” In an interview, Cornish said that the annual taxes on one portion of his land, the 1-acre homesite where his family has built a

5. Lawmakers could change the tax code as the Montana Legislature meets this year. see page 9

house and an outbuilding, dropped from about $2,000 to just $40.

According to Park County records, Cornish and his wife, Jamie, had a total tax bill of about $8,300 in 2024, down from about $9,400 the prior year. Cornish noted that the recent addition of the two structures offset the agricultural tax savings by boosting his non-land property value.

One bill that legislators are putting forward, House Bill 27, would do away with the automatic agricultural tax break, thereby removing Cornish’s tax break unless he can demonstrate sufficient farm or ranch income.

That bill would bring Montana in line with other Western states by requiring landowners like Cornish who want to receive or maintain an agriculture tax break to submit an application documenting a minimum level of farm or ranch income. And that income standard would also increase to at least $4,000 a year.

Losing the automatic tax

“ There are people coming in, and they’re taking out perfectly good ag property, or grazing property or ranch property and using it as their private playgrounds. They’re not being taxed at the rate that they should be for this property. And I think, honestly, it makes people in Montana look kind of silly that we haven’t figured this out.”

- Rep. Sherry Essmann, R-Billings

qualification, Cornish said, would push him to consider “getting some agricultural activity going at some point.” He added that generating enough income to surpass the proposed standard “starts to be a more serious endeavor.”

That’s precisely the sort of effect lawmakers who are supporting the agricultural tax reform bills hope to have.

“What we want to do is generate more ag production,” said Sen. Becky Beard, who led the working group and will serve as the vice chair of the Legislature’s Senate Taxation Committee this year. “If they’re not bona fide ag producers, then we have to look at a more realistic tax classification for those individuals or entities.”

Cornish believes large rural properties should get some sort of tax break to encourage preservation of habitat and open space. Large herds of elk, mule deer and antelope pass through his property, he said, which other than a small, out of use hayfield is largely sagebrush and high-desert juniper. “It’s basically like a nature preserve,” Cornish said. “It seems to me that that shouldn’t be taxed the same as a small subdivision.”

Lawmakers who helped draft the bills appear to agree. The bill that would end automatic agricultural classifications includes a clause replacing the partial agricultural tax category with one for “idle” land, at a higher effective tax rate.

Another draft bill, Senate

Bill 4, would increase taxes on homesite land directly underneath high-value homes built on agricultural properties while shielding properties valued at less than the statewide average — potentially raising taxes for property owners like Cornish and the Gianfortes even if they retain their agricultural designation. Colorado passed a similar bill in 2011, reclassifying the land beneath structures that were not “integral” to agriculture as residential. The change was so controversial at the time that at least one county assessor refused to enforce the law.

According to an August revenue department analysis, the homesite proposal would increase taxes on more than

6,000 properties statewide, a majority of them in just four counties where land is selling at particularly high market values. In Bozeman’s Gallatin County, for example, the average property classified as agricultural would see a tax increase of $1,248 a year. The department estimates that this change would collect enough extra revenue to save the median residential property $14.05 annually.

Montana lawmakers pushing reform efforts face a dilemma: How can the agricultural tax system support farmers and ranchers without creating a system that disproportionately benefits the wealthy? For example, the bill that would require Cornish and other property owners to apply for an agricultural designation would also require them to demonstrate an additional $6 of agricultural income beyond the new $4,000 threshold for each acre they own over 640. It would specify that certain activities don’t qualify as agricultural income, explicitly excluding revenue from, among other things, corn mazes,

page 14

valley views

Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative: A step toward healing

Of all of the work we have accomplished at the Department of the Interior under the Biden-Harris administration, one of the most significant has been the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative.

DOI View

Deb Haaland Secretary of the Interior

In October at the Gila River Indian Community in Arizona, I listened as President Joe Biden issued a historic apology for the U.S. government’s role in creating and perpetuating the federal Indian boarding school system. As I listened, I remembered my grandma Helen recount the story of when she was taken away to St. Catherine’s Indian Boarding School in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She told me about the day a priest from the Pueblo of Laguna came to our village of Mesita, “gathered up the kids,” put them on a train, and sent them away. She was 8 years old at the time. Her parents had no idea when she would return home.

My grandfather Tony, who was from Jemez Pueblo, was also sent to St. Catherine’s. Helen and Tony spent five years at the same school – far away from their families, communities, and Pueblo cul-

tures – and later chose to build a life from the bond they formed as children. Years later, their daughter Mary – my mother –would be sent to St. Catherine’s, too. I am here because of their persistence. This trauma is not new to Indigenous people, but it is new to many people across our nation.

Federal Indian boarding schools have impacted every Indigenous person I know, including staff across our Department. While many of us cannot recount all the ways in which the legacy of these schools has affected our lives, my grandmother and my mother carried scars from that era that they passed down to me. This reality persists with many Native peoples, whether we attended a boarding school ourselves, or are descended from those who did. In memory of Helen, Tony, Mary, and all those impacted by our country’s horrific assimilation policies – I have sought to shed light on this legacy and leverage my platform to amplify the voices of those who deserve to be heard. Because Native American history is American history.

One of the reasons I launched the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative was to ensure that this important story was told. That all of America knows of the intergenerational impacts of these policies, and that we – as a nation – take steps to heal from them.

Three years ago, our team embarked on a journey to bring to light this terrible era – one that is frequently excluded from history books. Interior staff – many of them Indigenous – worked through their own trauma to review over 103 million pages of federal records that informed the investigative report called for by the Initiative. That report outlined the number of schools, known attendees, and the extent to which teachers and priests denied children of their languages, cultures and lifeways. Based on available records, nearly 1,000 of those children died, though we believe the number to be much higher.

As part of the Initiative, Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland and I planned “The Road to Healing” – a year-long, 12-stop journey across Indian Country where we listened to and wept with survivors and descendants of these boarding schools. The stories I heard from survivors

about getting beat with ropes and razor straps, and the stories of girls being molested in the dark of night, were difficult to hear in person. While in Alaska, an elder man spoke of a group of young Alaska Native boys who arrived at the boarding school from the Interior and who were dressed “magnificently in their caribou pants and shirts,” and carrying bags of dried fish and berries – nutritious food that would carry them through for a time - only to have their clothes and belongings torn from them and burned in a pyre.

Much of this horror took place at the thennamed Carlisle Indian Industrial School in Pennsylvania, which from 1879 to 1918 served as the blueprint for boarding schools that would eventually open across the nation. Many of the children who died there are still buried on the school’s ground. In December, President Biden established the Carlisle Federal Indian Boarding School National Monument. Under the careful hands of the National Park Service – often called America’s storyteller – and in partnership with the U.S. Army who now manage the U.S. Army Carlisle Barracks, the history and horror of this place will never be lost or rewritten.

With the support of these partners and new agreements between the Department, the Library of Congress, and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History, our country will continue to learn from the voices and stories of those the federal government attempted –and failed – to silence.

When I began the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative, I had no idea that it would result in a presidential apology, or even a national monument dedicated to our people. I just knew it was necessary.

The boarding school era worked to systematically break up entire communities, erase cultures and traditions, and eradicate Native languages. On the heels of the boarding school era, the Dawes Act and other harmful federal policies worked to outright steal land and resources from under the feet of our communities. Although we have made much progress, this heavy legacy endures, and more federal action is needed to address the wrongs of the past and allow our country to heal from the assimilation era.

This work is not finished. The pain and hardship of the past will not be corrected in our lifetimes. But the President’s actions and the work of the incredible team at the Department

begins a new chapter and breathes new life into our shared building of a better future. Our past can never be re-written, but together, we can heal.

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. 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.

letters

Immigration, education systems both need improvement

Editor,

It’s clear that the US needs a better immigration system. That said, let’s see if I have this right. The incoming administration wants to deport most immigrants. But that’s not exactly it. They want to deport some of them, ones who work in jobs that Americans won’t work, such as harvesting crops, food and hospitality service, roofing. These are the people who are not taking jobs from Americans.  On the flip side, they want to increase immigration for foreign-born workers in scientific,

engineering and high-tech jobs. These are highly skilled, highly paid jobs. These are positions that do take away jobs, very good jobs, from Americans.

It looks like a lose-lose proposal, workers gone from jobs Americans don’t want, workers coming in to take jobs Americans do want.

A better solution is to improve our immigration system to get safe, honest workers that America needs, and to improve our education system so that highly qualified Americans are prioritized for scientific, engineering and hightech jobs.

Stephanie Brancati Big Arm

Valley View School Parent Group would like to thank the following businesses for their support to the Valley View School Winter Program Fundraiser. Our kids, families and teachers have been so blessed by our communities.

Cenex

Boardwalk Beauty

Polson Med Spa

Westland Seed

Ronan Flower Mill

Dobson Creek Coffee

Rocky Mountain Twist

Polson Showtime Theater

Whistle Stop Cafe & Bakery

The Little Shop Montana

Marbled Hides

Maxine’s Coffee Shop

Mission Mountain Natural Foods

Lake City Bakery

Flathead Cheese Company

Woody’s Building Center

True Value Ronan

Ronan Subway

Mocha Joint

St. Luke Community

Hospital

Muley Bluz

Glacier Bank

Polson/Ronan

Ambulance

Bishop Insurance

Second Nature Gifts

Briar’s Boutique

Riverside Recreation

Small Town Girl Coffee

Don Aadsen Ford

Bev’s Bloomers

Ninepipes Lodge/Restaurant

J&K Town and Country Salon

Country Pasta

Total Screen Design

Delaney’s Landscape

Harbor Light

Glacier Brewery

1st Interstate Bank

Sweet Bliss

The Cove

Bear Grass Candles

M&S Meats

Super 1 Foods

Betty’s Diner

Stageline Pizza

NAPA

Copper Mountain Coffee

Marbled Meats

3 Dog Down

Whitefish Credit Union

Unity Bank

Alpine Design

Perfect Shot

Cheers

Bea’s Floral

Sports Page

Brown’s Jewelry

Gracie Maxwell’s On Main

The Red Lion Inn & Suites

WalMart

Valley Bank

Simplicity Studios

Tamarack Brewery

The Jaded Pony Mutts and Meows

Handmade Montana

births

Cicily Reynolds

POLSON - Rhory, Chloey, and Raimey are excited to announce the arrival of little sister, Cicily Ann Reynolds. Cicily was born on Dec. 16, 2024, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. She was 19 inches long and weighed 6 pounds, 4.5 ounces. Cicily’s parents are Cierra and Rocky Reynolds of Ronan. Cicily’s maternal grandparents are Joe and Dana Merwin. Paternal grandparents are Karey and Darla Reynolds.

AnnaLeisi Linerud-McLeod

POLSON - AnnaLeisia Mae Linerud-McLeod was born on Dec. 20, 2024, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. She was 21 inches long and weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces. AnnaLeisia’s parents are Crystal Dionne of Elmo and Jacob McLeod Jr. of Polson. AnnaLeisia’s maternal grandmother is Jimiann Linerud. Maternal great-grandparents are Norma Burland and Herman Linerud. Paternal great-grandparents are Rosemary Grove Linerud and Louis McLeod.

Robert Gauthier

POLSON - Natalie Quinn is excited to announce the arrival of her little brother, Robert Eiler Joseph Gauthier. Robert was born on Dec. 23, 2024, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. He was 19 inches long and weighed 7 pounds, 5.6 ounces. Robert’s parents are Adessa and Robbie Gauthier of Ronan. Robert’s maternal grandparents are Joe and Alana Durglo. Maternal great-grandparents are Allen and Shirley Mays. Paternal grandparents are Bob and Myrna Gauthier.

Cicily Reynolds

$121M to help Tribes build climate resilience

124 awards will support Tribes and Tribal organizations to strengthen preparedness, resilience

News from the Department of the Interior

WASHINGTON — The Department of the Interior recently announced a $121 million investment from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to help Tribal communities prepare for the most severe climate-related environmental threats to their homelands. This is the largest amount of annual funding awarded to Tribes and Tribal organizations in the history of the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Tribal Community Resilience Annual Awards Program, with 96 Tribes and 10 Tribal organizations receiving funding for 124 projects.

This investment from the Inflation Reduction Act, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and annual appropriations will help Tribes proactively plan for and adapt to climate-related threats and safely relocate critical community infrastructure, where Tribes determine that is necessary.

“Indigenous communities face unique and intensifying climate-related challenges that pose an existential threat to Tribal economies, infrastructure, lives and livelihoods,” saidSecretary Deb Haaland. “Through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we have made transformational commitments to assist Tribes and Tribal organizations as they plan for and implement climate resilience measures, upholding our trust and treaty responsibilities and safeguarding these places for generations to come.”

“Today, we are not just investing in projects; we are investing in the future of our Tribal communities,” said Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan Newland. “The Biden-Harris administration recognizes the vital role that Indigenous knowledge and leadership play. These awards are a downpayment on a more sustainable and resilient future for Native communities across the country.”

This announcement includes $17.1 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, $79.8 million from the Inflation Reduction Act, and $24.2 million from fiscal year 2024 annual appropriations. This historic funding also advances the Biden-Harris administration’s Justice40 Initiative, which sets the goal that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Federally Recognized Tribes, including Alaska Native Villages, are considered disadvantaged communities, whether or not they have land.

The Tribal Climate Resilience Annual Awards Program supports both planning and implementation projects, including for climate adaptation planning, community-led relocation, managed and partial relocation, protect-in-place efforts, ocean and coastal management, and habitat restoration and adaptation. A summary of awards can be found on the Bureau of Indian Affairs website.

This funding announcement is part of a more than $560 million investment for Tribal climate resilience programs achieved during the Biden-Harris administration. In addition to significantly boosting the BIA’s Tribal Climate Resilience program, the Department launched a first-ever Voluntary Community-Driven Relocation Program with an initial $135 million commitment to advance relocation and planning efforts for Tribal communities severely impacted by climate-related environmental threats. This funding is part of more than a collective $50 billion invested through the President’s Investing in America agenda to advance climate adaptation and resilience across the nation, including in communities that are most vulnerable to climate impacts.

For more information about the awarded projects and how to apply for future funding opportunities, visit: https://www.bia.gov/service/tcr-annual-awards-program or email: resilience. funding@bia.gov.

Providence St. Patrick Hospital receives two Press Ganey Human Experience (HX) awards

News from Providence POLSON — Providence St. Patrick Hospital begins the new year by receiving the 2024 Press Ganey Human Experience (HX) Guardian of Excellence—Inpatient Award and the 2024 Press Ganey Human Experience (HX) Pinnacle of Excellence Award—Inpatient.

The Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award is reserved for health care organizations that rank in the 95th percentile or above for patient experience across the entire calendar year.

The Press Ganey Pinnacle of Excellence Award recognizes facilities who have maintained consistently high levels of excellence over three years in patient experience, employee engage-

ment, physician engagement, or clinical quality performance.

“These outstanding achievements reflect our unwavering focus to setting ever-higher standards for exceptional patient care, reflecting Providence St. Pat’s dedication, passion, and relentless pursuit of improving the lives of the patients and communities we serve.” said Bill Calhoun, Chief Executive, Providence Montana.

Press Ganey works with more than 41,000 healthcare facilities in its mission to reduce patient suffering and enhance caregiver resilience to improve the overall safety, quality, and experience of care. Learn more about Press Ganey.

For more information, contact joann.hoven@providence.org

USDA announces grant funding opportunity

News from USDA

WASHINGTON, D.C — USDA’s Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP) is making available $2.5 million for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (UAIP) grants, building on $53.7 million invested in UAIP grant projects by OUAIP since 2020. Eligible entities should apply by March 10, 2025.

“This grant program continues to grow in popularity, and we look forward to partnering with more communities nationwide to strengthen local food systems and increase access to healthy foods,” said Louis Aspey, Acting Chief of NRCS. “We’re also excited for this opportunity to add experienced Urban Agriculture Conservation Extension Educators to enhance our customer service through the partnership with NIFA.”

Recipients of UAIP competitive grants, including community gardens and nonprofit farms, will increase food production and access in economically distressed communities, provide job training and education, and allow partners to develop business plans and zoning proposals. The program supports a wide range of activities through grants that include planning and implementation activities. Planning activities initiate or expand efforts of farmers, gardeners, citizens, government officials, schools and other stakeholders in urban areas and suburbs, while implementation activities accelerate existing and emerging models of urban, indoor and other agricultural practices that serve farmers and communities. USDA will accept applications on Grants.gov until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on March 10, 2025.

For more information and a complete list of past recipients and project summaries, visit: www.usda.gov/urban.

A pre-recorded webinar available at www.youtube.com/ watch?v=63snY3AZrvc provides an overview of the grants’ purpose, project types, eligibility and basic requirements for submitting an application.

Adult Education Classes Polson School District 2025

Polson School District will be holding their winter adult education classes beginning the first week of February and will end the last week of March (8 weeks). If you’re interested in attending a class, please register at https://www. polson.k12.mt.us/community/adult-education to reserve your spot. Only email the instructor if you have a specific question about their class. The participant fee is a one-time payment for the entire session and is due at the first class. If you have additional questions, please contact Deanna McElwee at dmcelwee@polson.k12.mt.us.

Adult Basketball open gym/ scrimmage

Instructor: Camas McClure camasmcclure@ polson.k12.mt.us

When: Wednesday evenings 8:00-9:30 PM

Location: PMS gym

Fee: $10

Limit: 30 participants

Would you like to meet some new people while playing basketball? Men and women invited!

Open Sew

Instructor: Stephanie Anderson sanderson@ polson.k12.mt.us

When: Thursdays 5:00-8:00 PM

Location: PHS room 211

Fee: $15

Limit: 16 participants

Come sew with us! Bring your project or come for ideas and use the class machines. All levels are welcome, but the instruction is not comprehensive for beginners. If you are stuck or want to try a new pattern, we will support each other in learning and growing on our sewing journeys. I will have a serger available too.

Line Dancing

Instructor: Hazle Heth bazle@live.com

When: Wednesdays 6:00- 7:00 PM

Location: PHS cafeteria

Fee: $20 for 8 weeks

Line dancing is a four count dance, not only to country music, but all different music. We are here to have fun and get some exercise too. I’ve been instructing since 2008.

Introduction to Backpacking

Instructor: Leslie Dalbey ldalbey@polson. k12.mt.us

When: Wednesdays 6:00-7:00 PM

Location: Polson Middle School Library (enter through the back parking lot)

Fee: $10 plus materials for a backpacking meal taste test (stove, fuel, and cookware will be provided)

Learn about the fundamentals of backpacking in this eight-session course. The following topics will be addressed: Leave No Trace, the 10 Essentials, gear selection, basic navigation skills, wilderness safety, meal planning, backpacking techniques, and trip planning and preparation.

Yoga Flow

Instructor: Julie Snyder juliesnyder18@gmail. com, Registered Yoga Instructor

When: Monday evenings 6:00-7:00 PM

Location: PHS cafeteria

Fee: $20

Limit: 20 participants

In this yoga class, we will tend to all areas of the body through mindful stretching and strengthening movements. Each class will be a little different with breathwork and yoga flows. All abilities are welcome and there will be modifications for beginner and intermediate yogis. Please bring a yoga mat and any props you may like. There are some available upon request!

Beginning Photography

Instructor: Roxanne Hovenkotter rhovenkotter@polson.k12.mt.us

When: Tuesdays 6:30-8:30 PM

Location: Linderman Elementary library

Fee: $10

Limit: 10 participants

In this class you will learn the basics of beginning photography, what materials you need, how to use your digital or mirrorless camera, what makes a good composition, editing and other factors of photography. We will also spend a lesson on using our cameras as a great way to capture important moments. Please bring to class all your camera equipment that you own.

Crochet Class

Instructor: Bonnie Petersen bpetersen@ polson.k12.mt.us

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:00-6:30 PM

Location: Cherry Valley library Fee: $20

Limit: 15 participants

Crochet for beginners and those who need/ or want a little more support as they are learning. You will learn how to cast on, basic stitches and how to read a pattern. The class will supply one crochet hook and enough yarn to complete a washcloth. If you have a pattern you want to learn or need help with, I can do that too.

Knitting

Instructor: Christine Ayers cayers@polson. k12.mt.us

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:306:00 PM

*Times can be flexible, come the first night and we can discuss what times work for everyone!

Location: Linderman Elementary room 140 Fee: $10, includes a set of knitting needles and a skein of yarn!

Limit: 12 participants

We will learn the basics of knitting: Knitting history/ knitting tools

How to cast on a project

The basic knit and purl stitch

How to read patterns

How to increase & decrease stitches

How to finish a project

Book Study - The Anxious Generation

Instructor: Stacey Ellis sellis@polson.k12. mt.us

When: Mondays 5:30-6:30 PM

Location: PHS Library

Fee: $20.00

Limit: 15

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness is a 2024 book by Jonathan Haidt which argues that the spread of smartphones, social media and the loss of unstructured play have led to a rewiring of childhood and a rise in mental illness. In this book study, participants will engage in thoughtful conversations, analyze themes and ideas, and share insights, reflections, and questions. The book will be provided for you to keep.

Weight Training for People That Don’t Normally Lift Weights

Instructor: Lindsy Campbell missionvalleypt@ gmail.com

When: Wednesdays 5:45-7:15 PM

Location: PHS Weight Room

Fee: $10

Limit: 15 participants

You will be learning the basic lifts, designing your own programs to reach your personal goals, and including flexibility training and joint mobility into your routine.

personal horse boarding, hunting access, dude ranches and some conservation efforts.

If the bill passes in its current form, prominent mega-landowners Dan and Ferris Wilks would be among those who would be required to apply to hold on to their agricultural status. The Wilks brothers, who hail from Cisco, Texas, bought holdings in Montana after making a multibillion-dollar fortune in the fracking business. State property data indicates that Wilks Ranch Montana LTD owned 814 parcels totaling 301,732 acres across six Montana counties as of 2024. All of those parcels — including four containing at least a million dollars’ worth of residences or other structures — were categorized as agricultural.

With the new qualification standards, the Wilks Ranch would have to demonstrate an annual agricultural income of $1.8 million.

Walter Schweitzer, president of the Montana Farmers Union, doubts that the increased income standard would prove a greater hurdle for the state’s larger private landowners than the existing $1,500 threshold.

“It’s not that arduous,” he said in an interview. “It wouldn’t be a big deal.”

Schweitzer added that while he has no love for the wealth inequality represented by trophy ranches, he does think they can contribute to agricultural communities caught in what he described as a flawed system. Large landowners often lease their land to young farmers or ranchers who are trying to gain a foothold in a difficult industry, he said. He also expressed some fear that the $4,000 income standard could be a challenge for new or small-scale farmers who own little parcels of land and are part-time

farmers.

Like generations of Montana lawmakers, Schweitzer — whose brother is former Democratic Gov. Brian Schweitzer — said he’s stumped about how best to tackle the issue.

“I don’t know,” he said in an interview. “Do you have a good answer to how to close that loophole? Because I would sure like to.”

These hard truths loomed over the working group. Even before the bills were written, its members agonized over how to build the political backing necessary to bring them to the governor’s desk, particularly generating support from the state’s agriculture community.

Still, making the state’s tax code more equitable is worth a fight, said Rep. Sherry Essmann, R-Billings. Essmann, who is sponsoring the application bill, is married to Jeff Essmann, the former lawmaker who pursued agricultural land tax reform in 2017.

“There are people coming in, and they’re taking out perfectly good ag property, or grazing property or ranch property, and using it as their private playgrounds,” she said at the August meeting.

“They’re not being taxed at the rate that they should be taxed for this property,” she added. “And I think, honestly, it makes people in Montana look kind of silly that we haven’t figured this out.”

Montana Free Press is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit source for Montana news, information, and analysis. Our mission is to produce indepth public-service journalism that creates positive change and helps move society toward justice and equity.

MTFP seeks to uncover the truth and bring to light essential news stories by studying arcane bureaucratic processes, seeking out dark corners of major institutions, digging deep into data and documents, and holding power accountable to the people. Visit MontanaFreePress.org to learn more.

13th annual FLIC film festival is Feb. 14-16

News from FLIC

Nowin its 13th year, the Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC) screens full-length narrative and documentary features, shorts, animation, and student films. FLIC 2025 once again offers a diverse selection of domestic and international films, featuring entries from 18 countries as well as many homegrown Montana films. FLIC 2025 occurs the weekend of Feb. 14-16, at the Showboat Stadium 6, 416 Main Street in Polson. Dozens of filmmakers will make the trek to Polson to participate in the festival in person this year. FLIC had earned a solid reputation for its attendees, who enthusiastically support independent films and those who produce them. Spirited discussions between audience members and filmmakers cap off most screening blocks, and friendships take root between screenings as film lovers from across the globe converge in Polson to connect over their mutual love of independent cinema. FLIC 2025 gets underway at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 14 with a Valentine’s Day themed “Date Night” dessert reception in the lobby of the Showboat Stadium 6. FLIC screenings commence at 6 p.m. on

multiple screens. On Saturday, Feb. 15, at 9:30 a.m., FLIC and the Polson Rotary Club offer their traditional free animated children’s film and egg burrito breakfast. This year’s film is the Dreamworks animated hit, Wild Robot. The Polson Rotary Club will serve breakfast in the theatre’s lobby beginning at 9:15 a.m. Festival film screenings resume at 12:15 p.m. and continue on multiple screens into the evening. There’s a break in screenings from 4:30 to 6 p.m. for an informal filmmaker/attendee mixer at Lake City Bakery, located just a few blocks from the theatre at 49493 US Highway 93. FLIC’s judges enjoy discovering each year’s unique standouts. Included among them this year is the Montana-produced documentary film “Bring Them Home,” which tells the story of a small group of Blackfoot people and their mission to establish the first wild buffalo herd on their ancestral territory since the species’ near-extinction a century ago, an act that would restore the land, re-enliven traditional culture, and bring much needed healing to their community. The FLIC judges were unanimous in their praise for this beautiful film, with its rich Montana

COURTESY PHOTO

Pictured above is a still taken from the movie “Bring Them Home,” a documentary film that will be shown at this year’s FLIC Festival.

vistas, expert cinematography, and overall professional presentation, punctuated with beautiful narration by Golden Globe Best Actress winner Lilly Gladstone.

Another standout FLIC 2025 film is the Netherlands-produced documentary film “Journey of Transformation,” which takes the viewer on a breathtaking journey with the Blue Morpho butterfly as it navigates the perils of the jungle in a remarkable cycle of transformation.

“Journey of Transformation” strikes a balance between stunning visuals, a captivating story, and fascinating information about butterflies. It unveils the delicate balance of life where beauty, struggle, and resilience coexist in the wild.

The feature length documentary film “Capturing Kennedy” shares the extraordinary untold story of Jacques Lowe, a Holocaust survivor and young immi-

grant who, at just 28, became the personal photographer to President John F. Kennedy and his family. Drawing on newly uncovered historic interviews and unprecedented access to Lowe’s personal estate and archives, “Capturing Kennedy” chronicles Lowe’s remarkable journey from surviving the horrors of World War 2 to capturing some of the most iconic photographs of the Kennedy era.

Through Lowe’s unique lens, “Capturing Kennedy” sheds light on one of the last untold chapters of the Kennedy Presidency and the young photographer whose images chronicled it.

On Sunday morning, Feb. 16 at 9:30 a.m., the Good Coffee Roasting Company, 214 Main Street, Polson, hosts a light breakfast mixer for filmmakers and festival attendees. A wide variety of

drinks and delicious Whistle Bakery fresh baked goods will be available to purchase. The FLIC 2025 weekend draws to a festive close with an awards ceremony and dessert reception on Sunday, Feb. 16 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the theatre. The audience award will also be given to the FLIC audience’s overall favorite film. Free to ticket-holding FLIC attendees. If you miss FLIC weekend, the Showboat Stadium 6 is hosting FLIC 2025 encore screenings from 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16 through Thursday evening, Feb. 20. All films, times and events are subject to change. The FLIC 2025 screening schedule is available to view at FLICPolson.com, where festival passes may also be purchased, and will be available to pick up at will call during the festival weekend. FLIC is also on Facebook, where information is updated regularly. Email: contact@flicpolson.com.

Fishing update

Fisherman, Lake Mary Ronan is frozen but needs a couple of days yet before it is completely safe. Ninepipes and Pablo Reservoir open up Saturday. They are not very far away from having open water. The fish, all the aquatic organisms are more active in Crow Reservoir. There are planks for you to get on it and 4 inches of ice. Jim Rains and I caught over 50 keeper perch probably 100 total and 4 brown trout, 3 of which were over 3 pounds. Dog Lake is frozen for perch and pike. Turtle Lake is almost thick enough to get on; 2 inches now.

That’s about it for now. I’ve made a new lure. A movable drop shot hook inline looks similar to rat finkee. It’s going to be hot for everything; smaller ones for kokanee and larger ones for bass, trout and perch. We are stocking new tackle very soon. Our ice fishing tackle, rods and reels are in. Looking forward to seeing you. Come in or order by phone.

Good Fishing, The Macman

COURTESY PHOTO

Pictured above is a photo of a Blue Morpho butterfly taken from the movie “Journey of Transformation.”

sports

Basketball

Ronan girls

MISSION — The Ronan Maidens defeated the Mission Lady Bulldogs 60-56 during a Jan. 10 game hosted by Mission. The Maidens took the lead in the first quarter, with 14 points to the Lady Bulldogs 7. The Lady Bulldogs responded with another 25 points in the second to Ronan’s 11 to take the lead at the half, 32-25. Ronan narrowed the gap by putting up 13 to Mission’s 10 in the third quarter. Then they lit up the scoreboard in the fourth quarter, scoring 21 points to the Lady Bulldogs’ 12 and sealing the win. Lauryn Buhr was the lead scorer for the Maidens with 16 total points. Next up, the Maidens play Columbia Falls at home on Thursday, Jan. 16 and Libby on Saturday, Jan. 18, also at home.

Polson girls

POLSON — The Polson Lady Pirates lost a Jan. 11 basketball game played at home against the Dillon Lady Beavers 25-67. The Lady Beavers took the lead quickly and never looked back, scoring 19 points to the Lady Pirates’ 4 in the first quarter. They followed with another 14 in the second to Polson’s 3, leaving the score 33-7 at the half. The Lady Beavers put up another 34 points in the second half to the Lady Pirates’ 8 to win the game. Samantha Rensvold was the top shooter on the evening scoring 11 of Polson’s 25 points. The Lady Pirates play Whitefish next on Tuesday, Jan. 14 at home. Then they travel to Browning on Saturday, Jan. 18 to take on the Browning Lady Indians.

BOB GUNDERSON / GUNDY ARTISTRY PHOTOS

A Ronan Maiden wrestler gains control in a match during the Polson, Ronan wrestling duals on Jan 7. Right: A Ronan Chief wrestler takes down his opponent in the 215 weight category.

BOB GUNDERSON / GUNDY ARTISTRY PHOTOS

Polson wrestler Jaspin Fisher takes down his opponent in the 144 weight category. Right: Polson Lady Pirate wrestler Gracie Hammer wins with a pin in the 115 category.

BOB GUNDERSON / GUNDY ARTISTRY PHOTOS

Polson swimmer Dixie Montgomery competes in the 400M Freestyle Relay during the Jan. 10 Polson Invite at Mission Valley Aquatics. Right: Polson’s Teague McElwee enters the pool in the boys 400M Freestyle Relay.

obituaries

Charles Hahn

POLSON - Charles “Charley” Lynn Hahn, 79, of Polson, went to Heaven on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025. A devoted husband, father, Navy veteran, and accomplished professional, Charley lived a life defined by service, faith, and dedication.

lic Accountant (CPA) and became a partner at Deloitte. For nearly thirty years, his professional life was marked by leadership, integrity, and a commitment to mentorship.

Upon retirement, Charley embraced his lifelong love of animals by becoming a small business owner, breeding and raising quarter horses in Montana. His ranch became a sanctuary where he could share his expertise, appreciate the beauty of nature, and create cherished memories with family and friends.

After graduating from Portales High School in New Mexico, Charley enlisted in the United States Navy, serving honorably from 1963 to 1966 during the Vietnam War. His time in the Navy instilled a profound sense of discipline and patriotism that guided him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Charley earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from San Diego State University. He pursued a distinguished career as a Certified Pub-

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

Worker sought by City of Ronan. Accepting applications for the full-time position until position is filled. Benefit package. Wage DOE.

Obtain application, requirements, and job description by e-mail: clerk@cityofronan.org or stopping by at Ronan City Hall, 207 Main SW, Ronan, MT

Charley will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to his family, steadfast work ethic, and infectious passion for the life he built. His kind heart, wisdom, and sense of humor left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Charley is survived by his loving wife, Susan Hahn; their three children, Jessica Hahn of Polson, Michael Hahn of Newhall, California, Morgan Hahn and his partner Wayne Freeman of Polson; and three beloved grandchildren, Cameron, Shyeann, and Emma.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Polson.

He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www. lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Charles Hahn

BOB GUNDERSON / GUNDY ARTISTRY PHOTOS

Polson basketball player Malakai Curley handles the ball during a Jan. 11 home game against Dillon. Right: Polson Lady Pirate Hinkley Moss drives to the basket. The Lady Pirates fell to the Dillon Lady Beavers 25-67.

BOB GUNDERSON / GUNDY ARTISTRY PHOTOS

Polson’s Rylee Taylor-Jefferson takes a jump shot. Right: Pirate basketball player Maddox Bird shoots over Dillon player Kyler Engellant.

Wednesday, Jan. 15

Learn book binding, art journaling

ARLEE — The Arlee Community Development Corporation is offering two book binding and art journaling workshops in January. Participants will sew and bind a journal and create a cover for their book. A session for teens will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 15, from 4-7 p.m., and a session for 9 to 12 year-olds will be held on Friday, Jan. 17, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Materials will be provided, and meals will be served at each session. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now by calling 406-726-5550 or email: info@arleecdc.org

Library’s ‘Youth Book Club’ to meet

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library’s Page Turner’s Youth Book Club will meet from 4-5 p.m. in the library’s community room. They will be discussing “A Place to Hang the Moon” by Kate Albus. Come pick up your free copyof the book and register at the front desk.

Free meditation classes offered

ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. Join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. for an online meditation class led by Zen Teacher, Zenku Jerry Smyers, including meditation instruction, practice and discussion via Zoom. For more information and a

weather change

Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847-721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@ gmail.com.

Thursday, Jan. 16

Library holds ‘Story Time’

POLSON — Story Time is held each Thursday at 2 p.m. Join us to read books, make crafts and play games with your little ones at the North Lake County Public Library. This program is geared for kindergarten readiness ages 3-5. This week’s theme is “Pen-

guins.”

Join Julie for ‘Toddler Time’ at library

POLSON — Thursdays, at 10 a.m. will be the North Lake County Public Library’s new “Toddler Time.” This brand new program will be for 2-3 year old children and is all about movement, where we will read active stories, dance, sing and shake it all about.

Book Donation Day held

POLSON — The North Lake County Public

Library’s Friends of the Library will accept up to two boxes of books on Thursday, Jan. 16. Visit their website under “about us” tab to view the materials donation policy.

Library helps preserve Montana oral histories alive

POLSON — On Thursday, Jan. 16, from 6:30-8 p.m. the North Lake County Public Library is co-hosting a Montana Library Network Virtual Program, “Preserving Montana’s Oral Histories and Traditions.” This program trains partic-

a cover for their book. A session for for 9 to 12 year-olds will be held on Friday, Jan. 17, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Materials will be provided, and meals will be served at each session. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now by calling 406-726-5550 or email: info@arleecdc.org

Join the climate conversation

POLSON — Climate Cafe Polson offers a welcoming and inclusive space where individuals can engage in meaningful discussions about the climate crisis, share your thoughts, personal stories, and ideas as we explore ways to take action on personal, community, and global levels. Climate Cafe Polson gatherings are driven by the interests and input of participants, allowing for organic conversations and collective exploration of solutions. Gatherings are open and all are welcome on the third Friday of each month from 9-11 a.m. at 110 Main Street.

ipants on how to interview, collect and archive oral histories in their communities. You must register for this program to receive the link: Register by going to: https://tinyurl.com/ HistoriesandTraditions.

Friday, Jan. 17

Learn

book binding, art journaling

ARLEE — The Arlee Community Development Corporation is offering a second book binding and art journaling workshops. Participants will sew and bind a journal and create

Make ribbon skirt, help end heart disease, strokes in women

RONAN — Join Tribal Health at the Ronan Senior Center for two afternoons of Ribbon Skirt-making in a community near you. All classes will take place from noon-4 p.m.; the first class is held on Friday, Jan. 17, with second class the following Wednesday, Jan. 22. To register go to: https://forms.office.com/r/ QmAtbnVf2M

see page 19

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

A tree’s silhouette stands before a background of blue sky changing to dark clouds.

from page 18

Mother Goose returns to library

POLSON — Mother Goose Returns to the North Lake County Public Library at a new time. Join us Fridays at 10 a.m. in the Community Room. This is our program for 0-24 month old littles. We will sing songs and have interactive activities for caregivers and their little ones.

Saturday, Jan. 18

Second weekly ‘Story Time’ held

POLSON — On Saturdays at 2 p.m. we are adding a Story Time. This program will have the same theme

as the Thursday program. Hope you can join us for all the fun! This week’s theme is “Penguins.”

Monday, Jan. 20

Library closed for holiday

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will be closed on Monday, Jan. 20, in honor of the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. The library will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 9 a.m.

Learn about ‘Full Plate Living’

ARLEE — Tribal Health is offering “Full Plate Living,” a series of classes to help participants lead a healthy lifestyle. Classes include information on meal planning, nutrition,

and weight loss, and setting realistic goals for healthy living. Classes will be held Mondays from noon to 1 p.m. starting Jan.13 and continuing for eight weeks at the Arlee Community Development Corporation. Attend seven out of eight sessions to receive a free kitchen gadget. Space is limited to 12 participants, so call Amber at 406-2415768 to reserve your spot.

Wednesday, Jan. 22

Free meditation classes offered

ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. Join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. for an online meditation class led by

Zen Teacher, Zenku Jerry Smyers, including meditation instruction, practice and discussion via Zoom. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847-721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@ gmail.com.

Thursday, Jan. 23

Library holds ‘Story Time’

POLSON — Story Time is held each Thursday at 2 p.m. Join us to read books, make crafts and play games with your little ones at the North Lake County Public Library. This program is geared for kindergarten readiness ages 3-5. The theme for this week will be “snow.”

public meetings

The Polson City Commission meets every first and third Monday of the month (Wednesday, if the Monday falls on a holiday) at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 106 1st Street East. Meetings are open to the public.

St. Ignatius City Council meets the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 12 First Ave. 406- 745-3791

Ronan City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m., 207 Main Street SW, Ste A. 406-676-4231

Lake County Commissioners , 106 Fourth Ave. E, room 211, (Lake County Courthouse) 406-883-7278, Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

The Lake County Conservation District , 64352 US HWY 93, Ronan, meets monthly on the second Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are open to the public and agendas may be found at LakeCountyConservationDistrict.org.

The Ronan School District No. 30 Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled board meetings once a month. They meet the second Monday of every month in the K. William Harvey Elementary Multi-Purpose Room. Regular meetings begin at 7 p.m.

The Polson School District No. 23 Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled board meetings once a month. Meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the District Office, 111 4th Ave. E, 406-883-6345.

The Charlo School District 7J B Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled meetings on the third Thursday of every month. Meetings are held in the school library, 404 1st Ave. W, and begin at 7 p.m. The phone number is 406-6442206.

The Arlee School District No. 8 Board of Trustees hold regularly scheduled meetings on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Arlee High School Library, 72220 Fyant Street, and begin at 6:30 p.m. The phone number is 406-726-3216.

Valley View Elementary is located at 42448 Valley View Road. The phone number is 406-8832208.

St. Ignatius School District No. 28 Board of Trustees meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the library, 76 Third Avenue. The phone number is 406-745-3811.

PUZZLES

seniors

Arlee

News from the Arlee Senior Center Board for the Valley Journal

ARLEE - Happy New Year 2025 to all of our friends/family here at the Arlee Senior Center. We truly enjoy all the meals shared with each of you. The sharing of daily events in your lives with one another is such a blessing to each of us who live alone, or have family far away. The meals that Dustin, Randy Tiensvold and Marti Bogess provide for us warm not only our bodies, but our hearts in sharing with one another. We invite all Jocko Valley (and beyond) to come join us for a Monday/Wednesday and second/fourth Saturday meal. You do NOT need to be of senior age to join us. We have many family members/children who also come. There are few places to eat in Arlee that you can get a $4 meal. Please call to request an eat-in or takeout meal at 406-7263213. If you need to have a delivered meal (for an infirmed person), please indicate delivery. We have spent a complete December with no snow on the ground until the last day of the month. It is great to see the snow on the mountains, and the rain in the valley, but snow is definitely needed along with a bit of colder

weather. We pray that all drivers are safe on Highway 93 in the inclement weather.

January 11 is our first Saturday dinner at 5 p.m. along with our annual board meeting for all seniors in attendance. Roast beef is on the menu, and we hope you all attend. There are always prizes for those in attendance. Listen to what we have accomplished this year at your center. Also, elections are held for new board members by acclamation of all present. If you are interested in being on the Arlee Senior Citizens Board, give a shout out and we will nominate you to join in our monthly business activities.

It is well known that people of all ages need to be involved ln social awareness (visiting), physical activity (walking at the Community Center), reading, puzzling, and spiritual selfcare among other things. Pick up your phone and visit with a friend and come to the center. The Salish Center also provides meals on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. December provided much night beauty with shooting stars (meteor showers), brilliant moon rises lighting up the Jocko Valley, and even some Northern Lights. Maybe January will bring us white snow filled fields and warm cozy fires. En-

joy your Christmas gifts, a warm cup of coffee/tea/ your choice, and know after the winter leaves, spring arrives with new life!

Blessings on you all and truly enjoy the New Year of 2025.

Menu: (subject to change)

- Wednesday, Jan. 15: creamy shrimp pasta, broccoli, fruit, dessert

- Monday, Jan. 20: tater tot casserole, green beans, fruit, dessert

- Wednesday, Jan. 22: French dip, fries, veggies, fruit, dessert

- Saturday, Jan. 25: baked chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, fruit, dessert

- Monday, Jan. 27: brats with kraut, chips, fruit, dessert

- Wednesday, Jan. 9: spaghetti with meat sauce, salad, bread, fruit, dessert

Please call 406-7263213 the day of the meal by 9 a.m. Include your

name, phone number and the number of meals you wish and whether you will dine-in or take-out. Arlee Senior Center Board: President Cheri Garcelon, Vice President Betty Shoemaker, Secretary/Treasurer Anne Stewart, Gladys Brown, Jerry Garcelon, Ulie Willison, Patty Tiensvold, Marie Gillette, and Judy Miller

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON - Monday, Jan. 20th is Martin Luther King Day! We will be open as usual. Banks, government offices, and some other businesses will be closed for this federal holiday.

AARP’s Tax Preparation Assistance mandatory pre-registration begins now. You must make a reservation by calling or visiting the Polson Senior Community Cen-

ter. Appointment times are available (starting in February) on Mondays or Thursdays only between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. You may register by phone, but you must pick up and fill out your packet before your appointment time.

Full-time or part-time executive assistant/nutrition director wanted. Apply at the Polson Senior Center. Work is weekdays only, wage D.O.E. - $16$25 per hour and is negotiable.

Activities:

- Bowling: “no-tap” Tuesdays 1-3 p.m. Join any time.

- Carving Wood for beginners: Wednesdays & Fridays at 1 p.m. Join any week.

- Wednesday Play Day: cards, board games, dominoes, Yahtzee, etc. Invite a foursome.

- VSO (Veterans Ser-

vice Officer:) first Friday and third Tuesday of each month. 9 a.m.-noon, walk-ins OK

- Spinning Wheelers: first Tuesday of each month Feb. 4) 11 a.m.-1 p.m., call 208-520-1013

- Bingo: Fridays open at 5:30 - play at 6 p.m.; “Playing-Card” bingo begins on Wednesdays starting Feb. 5.

- Exercise: sitting or standing or dancing

- M-W-F, 10:30–11:30 a.m., video-assisted, low impact

- Pinochle: Thursdays and Mondays 12:15-3 p.m. We play 3, 4 or 5 handed. Late arrivals OK.

- Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Menu (subject to change): lunch $5 donation from 11:45 a.m.12:30 p.m.

Polson

- Thursday, Jan. 16: meat loaf, baked potato, green beams, spinach salad

- Friday, Jan. 17: chicken strips, steak fries, beets, 5-cup salad, fiesta cake

- Monday, Jan. 20: Martin Luther King Day - minestrone soup, focaccia, green salad, cookie - Tuesday, Jan. 21: Chicken Cordon Blue casserole, peas-n-carrots, carrot raisin salad, custard - Wednesday, Jan. 22: pork chops, mashed spuds, mixed-up vegetables, cinnamon-apple Jell-O

- Thursday, Jan. 23: pigs in a blanket, macn-cheese, pickled beets, crispy fruit - Friday, Jan. 24: birthday dinner for lunch - roast beef with all the fixings, and cake too  Our Community Center is located at 504 Third Ave. E - doors open from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays. Call us at 406-883-4735. Email: polsonseniorcenter@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook!

St. Ignatius

By Theresa Yares for the

ST. IGNATIUSWe finally got some snow … and it stayed!

Upcoming Events: Craft Day – Introduction to Cut Stained Glass - Jan. 16 at 1 p.m. This is an introduction

class to cutting glass and soldering. A free will offering is requested to participate. Call the St. Ignatius Senior Center at 406-745-4462 and leave your name if you are interested. There will also be a sign-up sheet at the center.

Movie night takes place on Jan. 30 at 2 p.m. We will announce the movie at later date. A free will offering will be taken and we will have popcorn, hot chocolate, and coffee.

Menu:

- Friday, Jan. 17: scalloped potatoes w/ham, peas, pears, rolls/cupcake

- Tuesday, Jan. 21: meatloaf, mashed potatoes w/gravy, green beans/roll, strawberry shortcake

- Friday, Jan. 24: pork chops, potatoes/gravy, peas, applesauce, cornbread, p. butter cookie

If you would like a takeout meal, call 406745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays and by 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Meal times are listed with menu. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the center. Everyone is welcome at our meals (young and old). Come enjoy a delicious meal and good conversation.

Our Senior Center is available to rent. If you are interested, call 406-745-4462 and leave a message. If you have question about obtaining Elder Commodities call or stop by for information and an application.

Gently Yoga is held on Wednesdays from 1-2:15 p.m. If you are interested, call Bonnie Kiser at 406253-0177. Her rates are five sessions for $65.

STATEWIDE ADVERTISING

Many Hands in the community leading with heart

News

from

Helping Hands of the Mission Valley

POLSON - We at Helping Hands would like to take this opportunity to thank all those special volunteers and donors for their generosity in 2024. The time, effort & selfless giving from our donors and partners have allowed us to provide services to over 75,000 people since 2004. See a year in review of all the wonderful volunteers, moments, people and places in the pictures below.

A movement for health Join us in our mission to create accessible, safe spaces that promote physical activity and family engagement. Together, we can improve long-term health outcomes for our community, addressing chronic diseases, obesity, and behavioral health. By building spaces in different communities and offering prevention education, while maintaining a strong, cross-agency collaboration, Push Play will become an integrated movement. Check out our website: https://

helpinghandsofmissionvalley.org or follow us on Facebook. You can sign up for our newsletter on our website.

Volunteering your time, money, or energy to help others doesn’t just make the world better—it also makes you better. Studies indicate that the very act of giving back to the community boosts your happiness, health, and sense of well-being.

One Helping Hands project includes a partnerships support to families through pregnancy and postpartum. Providence St. Joseph Medical Center and St. Luke’s Community Hospital recently partnered with Zero to Five Flathead Reservation and Lake County and Helping Hands of Mission Valley. We will educate new mothers and families on postpartum mood disorders by providing educational materials and a $25 incentive when mothers attend their postpartum check. Looking to volunteer? Please give us a call at 406-883-0770.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Valley Journal

Announcements

Special Notices

Switch and save up to $250/ year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time offer - get $50 off on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more information, call 1-877-324-0193

Connect to the best wireless home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5G and 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 855-419-7978

Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-995-3572

Get your deduction ahead of the year-end! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous year-end

tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855901-2620 today!

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-762-1508

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-601-2865

Miscellaneous

Pets & Supplies

AKC akita male pups. Large, loving, family protectors. Raised akitas 40 years. First shots, Central Montana. $600 each. $1,200 with registration papers. 406-423-5542.

CLASSIFIEDS WORK!

vjmail@valleyjournal.net

Real Estate

Equal housing

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Montana Human Rights Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, familial status, physical or mental disability, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-free at 1-800-

Puzzle Answers

Solution to Word Search

669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

Public Notices

Legals

Legals

William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC

Attorneys at Law 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864

Telephone: (406) 676-4470

Attorney for Personal Representative bill@fgwilliamslaw.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF OSCAR GLEN BAERTSCH, Deceased.

CAUSE NO. DP-24-84

NOTICE

TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will 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, must either be mailed to GARY BAERTSCH, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

DATED this 20th day of December, 2024.

/s/ Gary Baertsch GARY BAERTSCH, Personal Representative

Get a job – earn college credits – make a difference!

Nursing Faculty 2 openings (10 months)

Salary Range: $55,935 - $65,551 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Nursing Simulation Lab Instructor

Salary Range: $54,301-$56,400 DOEE

Closing date: Open Until Filled

Career Advisor for TRIO Student Support

Services Program (10 months)

Salary Range: $37,744 - $40,824 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Director of Marketing & Operations

Salary Range: $52,685 - $55,149 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, Jan. 27, 2025; 4 pm MST

Custodian Part-time

Starting Wage: $15.54/hr

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Wildlife/Fisheries Ecologist (9 months)

Salary Range: $51,062 - $56,111 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

President of Salish Kootenai College

Salary Range: $107,000 - $135,000 DOEE

Screening of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Executive Assistant for the Vice President of Academic Affairs

Salary Range: $41,597 - $44,061 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

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

Indigenous Research Center (IRC)

Administrative Assistant

Salary Range: $39,133 - $40,365 DOEE

Closing Date: Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025; 4 pm MST

Life Sciences Instructor

Salary Range: $53,586 - $57,373 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, Jan. 6, 2025; 4 pm MST

Dean of Career Technical Education (10 months)

Dean stipend included

Salary Range: $54,667 - $58,339 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, Jan. 6, 2025; 4 pm MST

Nursing Clinical Instructor (9 months)

Salary Range: $45/hr -$55/hr DOEE (part-time, 14hrs a week)

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Building Trades Department Chair/Instructor (10 months)

Salary Range: $52,167 - $55,839 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, Dec. 23, 2024; 12 pm MST

Wildland Fire Instructor (9 months)

Salary Range: $44,752-$58,848 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Supporting Tribal Education Pathways (STEP)

Project Assistant

Salary Range: $21.02 - $21.93 hourly DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Soils & Groundwater Hydrology Instructor-9month

Salary Range: $44,752-$54,848 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Institutional Research Analyst

Salary Range: $47,757 - $50,221 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

The Nursing Department is actively seeking adjunct nursing faculty who are excited about teaching and student learning. Adjunct nursing faculty will hold a minimum of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from both an accredited nursing program and college. If a BSN prepared nurse is currently enrolled in a master’s program, they will be considered as a qualified applicant. Any person seeking adjunct employment please send a completed SKC application, resume, and unofficial transcripts to Teresa Sias at teresa_sias@skc.edu. Official transcripts will be required upon hire.

Salish Kootenai College (SKC) is an Indian preference and equal opportunity employer. SKC does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual identification, gender, age, or disability, except as allowed by the Indian preference provision of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended. Consistent with state and federal law, reasonable accommodation will be provided to persons with disabilities.