01-18-23 issue

MDT shares draft proposal for highway improvements along Ninepipe corridor

By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

CHARLO — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), in collaboration with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) held informational meetings last week to share what may be the last draft of their feasibility findings for improving the Ninepipe corridor. This comes as part of an effort that MDT Project Manager Vicki Crnich says has been underway since 1996.

The MDT study is intended to evaluate the viability of the project preferences identified in the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) conducted alongside the FHWA and CSKT back in 2008 to address traffic and safety concerns. The Ninepipe segment of U.S. Highway 93 passes through federal and tribal lands designated for wildlife management, environmental protection and cultural preservation. Protection of these uses must be considered before any project is decided upon.

According to the MDT website, the SEIS was re-evaluated in 2016 for the Ronan-Urban segment of the corridor to confirm proposed design changes and project segmentation/ phasing. The Ninepipe segment was not addressed during the re-evaluation process. “Since completion of these previous efforts, MDT has proceeded to develop projects in stretches of U.S. Highway 93 adjacent to the Ninepipe segment and has encountered multiple challenges relating to constructability, im-

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pacts and costs,” the website states. “This feasibility study is being completed to proactively address these challenges by identifying potential constraints and considering viability before a project for the Ninepipe segment is nominated.”

“From the public we heard quite a few comments about the desire to minimize impacts to adjacent properties, whether they be nearby businesses or residents … We had several folks mention they want to see that we make sure and coordinate with agencies and stakeholders, and we’ve done that in a number of ways,” Sarah Nicolai commented at the Jan. 12 virtual meeting. “We heard from folks asking us to consider how improvements would connect with other projects like Post Creek Hill and the Eagle Pass Trail that are upcoming in the corridor … We had several requests to make sure we consider the cultural and traditional elements of the landscape in coordination with the cultural committees and the tribal elders.”

The current feasibility study began by considering the preferred parameters outlined in the 2008 SEIS, before developing two additional options to improve transportation system performance and enhance wildlife accommodations with the goal of reducing resource impacts and wildlife-vehicle conflicts.

An updated traffic analysis since the 2008 SEIS showed that 2020 traffic volumes ranged from approximately 7,000 vehicles per day (vpd) south of Montana Highway 212 to just over 8,500 vpd to the north. Summer traffic was found to be approximately 35% higher. According to the study, “passing

demand is high but passing capacity approaches zero, so drivers will spend a lot of time following slower vehicles,” results similar to what was found in the SEIS traffic analysis. The crash rate for the Ninepipe corridor was also found to be higher since the SEIS, 4.3 crashes per mile per year versus 2.8 in the 2008 SEIS, though with a lower severity rate and percent of fatalities. The most common crash type was found to be with wild animals.

The study also found that a large number of deer, birds and turtles are struck within the Ninepipe segment of U.S. Highway 93, and since the 2008 SEIS, data shows the grizzly bear population is expanding with 45 highway crossings by nine different bears documented in the Ninepipe vicinity from 2007 to 2019. Additionally, the study found grizzly bear mortalities from car collisions has notably accelerated in recent years with 61 vehicle-caused grizzly bear mortalities in the vicinity from 2004 to 2019.

Key features of the original 2008 SEIS project preferences (Option C-1) include two bridges of 120 and 150 feet at Crow Creek with 10-12 feet of vertical

clearance, two 60-foot bridges with 10-12 feet of clearance and two culverts at the two Kettle Pond locations and a 660-foot bridge with multiple culverts and 10-12 feet of clearance at Ninepipe Reservoir. There would also be a shared use path crossing north of Kettle Pond.

Options C-2 and C-3, created according to increased knowledge from the current feasibility study, take a slightly different approach. C-2 focused on enlarged wildlife crossing structures to accommodate the size of the large mammals expected to cross in the area, including two 800foot bridges by Kettle Pond, a 500-foot bridge at Crow Creek, a 660-foot bridge with multiple culverts to channel water at Ninepipe Reservoir and a shared use path crossing south of Ninepipe Reservoir, with all bridges to include 15 feet of vertical clearance. Option C-3 went further, including a specific wildlife overpass, along with two 110foot bridges with culverts and 10-12 feet of vertical clearance at Kettle Pond, a 500-foot bridge at Crow Creek, and a 300-foot bridge at Ninepipe Reservoir with culverts and a shared use path. All three options carry a

two-lane configuration.

According to a statement by MDT, all options were evaluated numerically according to their performance under screening criteria, including transportation, ecological environment, fish and wildlife, human environment, constructability, and cost categories. While the study determined all three options would be feasible to implement and stated there are no known conditions that would prohibit construction of any option given adequate funding, Option C-3 was determined to be the least impactful with more benefits and lower cost, and thus was found to be the preferred option to advance for future project development.

The study is expected to be finalized by the end of February. Should any projects advance from this study, Consultant Project Manager Scott Randall explained the next steps would include funding identification, project nomination, project development, including environmental documentation and collaboration with resource agencies, stakeholders and the public. No funding has been identified for corridor projects at this time, however grants may

become available.

“Part of the reason behind doing this feasibility study is because it has been 14 years and by dusting things off and looking at the things that have changed, it sets us up to be maybe more competitive to go after grants,” Crnich explained in the Jan. 12 meeting.

A recording of the virtual meeting can be seen at: mdt. mt.gov/pubinvolve/US93Ninepipe. The current draft of the study can be viewed online at: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/ pubinvolve/US93Ninepipe/ docs/US93Ninepipe-FeasibilityStudy-2023-01-04.pdf. Comments about the study can be submitted throughout the review period until Feb. 6 online at: www.mdt.mt.gov/mdt/ comment_form.shtml. Please note comments are for the U.S. Highway 93 Ninepipe Corridor Feasibility Study.

Private bison shot near Ravalli

FLATHEAD RESERVATION — People may have heard about or seen three bison on Ravalli Hill near the highway. Two were shot near Old Freight Road and Highway 93. Those were escaped “livestock” bison from a private herd southeast of St. Ignatius. They are not bison range bison. There are no holes in the Bison Range fence; the exterior boundary fence has been checked multiple times this week and is checked often.

For more information, please contact Shannon Clairmont at Shannon. clairmont@cskt.org or Stephanie Gillin at Stephanie.gillin@cskt.org.

News from the CKST Natural Resources Department

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Launching MTFP’s 2023 Capitol Tracker

News from Eric Dietrich Montana Free Press

As lawmakers meet to cultivate Montana’s next crop of laws this winter, there are more ideas flying around the Capitol than any single person can possibly keep track of. As is a longstanding tradition at the Legislature, they range the gamut from wise to bonkers — some of them trivial measures and others bills that, if enacted, would realign the trajectory of Montana’s future.

With 392 bills introduced as of Jan. 11 and hundreds more on the way, the Montana Free Press newsroom is hard at work trying to make sense of this year’s legislative process. The same is true of the other journalists staffing the state press corps, the legions of lobbyists who work the Capitol halls, even lawmakers themselves — not to mention Montanans watching the show from elsewhere in the state.

Which is where MTFP’s Capitol Tracker, a digital guide we’re relaunching today for the 2023 session, comes in. The tracker, an update to legislative guides we published in 2021 and 2019, aims to make comprehensive data on the quantifiable aspects of this year’s Montana Legislature readily available to our readers.

Here’s a look at what all is detailed in the guide:

BILLS

Each and every bill, resolution, and constitutional amendment introduced at the 2023 Legislature has its own page in the guide. You can see a listing of all those measures in a single place on the guide’s all bills page. The guide also lets you search for specific bills either by their num-

ber or by words included in their bill title.

As the session proceeds, MTFP’s reporting staff will curate a list of this year’s key bills and their current status. As of Jan. 11 that listing includes only House Bill 2, the state’s primary budget measure, but the list will expand in the coming weeks.

Bill pages (e.g., the page for House Bill 1) include the following information:

- Where the bill is at in the Legislative process

- The bill’s sponsor and their political party

- Links to the bill’s full text

- Links to fiscal and legal notes, as applicable (Legal notes, which flag bills that could risk a court challenge, aren’t published on the official Legislative website. We’ll be obtaining them via public records requests.)

- Procedural actions, including votes taken on the bill Note that while drafts of un-introduced bills are sometimes the subject of public discussion and news coverage, we’ve excluded them from the guide for the sake of brevity. If you want to review those measures, many of which won’t be formally considered by the Legislature, they’re listed on the official legislative website.

LAWMAKERS

Each of Montana’s 100 representatives and 50 senators has a page on the guide. You can access those either by looking up membership of the House or Senate, or by searching for individual lawmakers by name.

If you’re unsure which specific lawmakers represent you in the Legislature, you can look up your House and Senate district by entering your address.

A portion of the MTFP 2023 Capitol Tracker bill page for Sen. Steve Fitzpatrick, R-Great Falls.

Lawmaker pages (e.g., the page for Sen. Steve Fitzpatrick) include the following information:

- Length of service in the Legislature and 2023 leadership roles, if any

- Phone and email contact information

- Bills sponsored this year

- Votes on MTFP-identified key bills

- Floor vote statistics, including how often the lawmaker is voting with most Republicans and with most Democrats

CALENDAR

The guide’s calendar page lists upcoming committee hearings, the discussions that give members of the Montana public their primary opportunity to weigh in on the legislative process. Hearing listings are organized by committee, and include links to bill pages with additional information.

SUMMARIZING THE ACTION

The guide’s recap page summarizes bill actions taken each day of the session so far, providing a way to assess the sum total

of the quantifiable work being done in Helena at a glance.

A portion of the MTFP 2023 Capitol Tracker recap page, detailing procedural actions taken by the Legislature so far this year.

PARTICIPATING IN THE SESSION

The guide’s participation page provides an FAQ-style reference for readers who are looking to monitor or weigh in at the session.

BEHIND THE SCENES

The information in the guide is gathered from a variety of public sources including the Montana secretary of state’s election result database, the official legislative roster and, most importantly, the Legislature’s official bill database, the Legislative Automated Workflow System, or LAWS. While we’ve updated the Capitol Tracker daily during past sessions, we’ve now set up an automated system that checks LAWS for new bill status information and updates the guide accordingly multiple times per hour.

We expect to adjust the guide’s contents and, time permitting, expand it over the course of the legislative session. We’d appreciate bug reports, questions and suggestions if you have them — send those to Deputy Editor Eric Dietrich at edietrich@montanafreepress.org.

Additionally, if you’re someone who’s interested in the technology that powers the Capitol Tracker, which is built entirely with open source software, our code is available here: https:// github.com/eidietrich/capitol-tracker-23

Lastly, like all of the work we do at Montana Free Press, producing projects like this takes no small amount of time, expertise and tenacity. As a nonprofit news outlet, we rely on reader support to make work like this possible. If you’re finding what we’re doing here useful, please give some consideration to doing what you can to support us, perhaps by spreading the word about our work, passing along a note of encouragement, or chipping in a few bucks to help us pay our bills.

MTFP PHOTO

Parties name affordable housing, cost of living, childcare as priorities at legislative session

By Caven Wade UM Legislative News Service University of Montana School of Journalism

HELENA — As the 68th Montana Legislature gets into full swing in Helena, party leaders say affordable housing, the cost of living, access to childcare and reducing red tape will be some of the top issues lawmakers will attempt to tackle in the 90-day session.

Republicans hold control of the governor’s office and the Legislature, and in the Legislature, they hold what is called a “super majority” with 68 of the 100 House seats and 34 of the 50 Senate seats.

Republican party leaders often used the phrase “conservative mandate” during the first week of the session, referring to their historic wins in the 2022 election.

“We will embrace Montana family values and further protect those individual rights and liberties that we all share and all enjoy,” Senate Majority Leader Sen. Steve Fitzpatrick, R-Great Falls said.

Fitzpatrick said reducing regulation on businesses will be one of his caucus’ main priorities, taking the lead from Gov. Greg Gianforte’s “red tape relief”

initiative.

There are more 100 bills that deal with red tape laws on businesses, and about 20 have already been heard by committee, according to reporting from Jonathon Ambarian of KTVH.

Committees from both chambers saw 10 bills on revising alcohol law, and licensing in the first week.

“Reducing these regulations will help us unleash the full potential of Montana’s economy,” Fitzpatrick said.

Fitzpatrick said tax relief across will also be a priority, especially when it comes to deciding how to use the state’s historic $2 billion surplus. Fitzpatrick also named education, passing a conservative budget, addressing the affordable housing crisis, and dealing with the increasing inflation as session goals.

Republican leaders hope to pay off state bonds to eliminate the state’s debt.

Meanwhile, Gov. Gianforte unveiled his plans for $1 billion in tax relief, which would decrease the income tax rate from 6.5% to 5.9%, along with giving Montanans $1,000 in property tax relief for each citizen’s primary residence. His plan would also implement a $1,200 tax credit for children under six.

Meanwhile, Democratic leaders outlined some of the issues on which they see common ground, like affordable housing, and promised to work with the majority in addressing those.

“Although our methods may be as varied as our upbringing, our goal is the same: a thriving, healthy, and resilient state,” said Senate Minority Leader Sen. Pat Flowers, D-Belgrade.

Democrats also said they won’t back down on other issues, particularly on issues like access to abortion and the rights to privacy and a clean and healthful environment protected in Montana’s constitution.

“There’s a lot of responsibility in having majorities in both chambers of the Legislature and the same party in the governor’s office; you have to govern,” House Minority Leader Rep. Kim Abbott, D-Helena, said. “Where we disagree, and we think that your policies aren’t meeting the needs of our constituents, we’re going to hold you accountable.”

Democrats gave out pamphlets the first week of the session titled “Putting Montana’s Money to Work.” It outlined areas of concern and suggestions for improvement.

The pamphlet named affordable housing, childcare, and healthcare, along with education, reproductive rights, mental health, and others, as key issues.

Both parties continuously mentioned the housing crisis plaguing Montana renters and homeowners.

“Montanans can’t afford housing and childcare; as a result, businesses can’t find employees, and support services can’t keep up,” Flowers said.

Democrats have proposed a plan to pay $500 million to developers and nonprofits to build housing that renters and homeowners can afford. Another plan provides tax credits to landlords who offer rentals below market rates.

“We know that our state is facing significant challenges around access to childcare, access to affordable housing. We know that affects our business communities,” Abbott said.

Caven Wade is a reporter with the UM Legislative News Service, a partnership of the University of Montana School of Journalism, the Montana Broadcasters Association, the Montana Newspaper Association and the Greater Montana Foundation. He can be reached at caven.wade@umontana.edu.

Growlers on Main experiences break in

By Taylor Davison Valley Journal

POLSON — Growlers on Main, located at 208 Main Street in Polson, was broken into via the front window at approximately 2 a.m. on Jan. 12. A representative from Growlers commented that they’ve heard

it’s been happening around town, mentioning similar break ins occurred recently around Ricciardi’s, 4B’s, and the golf course.

Anyone with information about the break ins, is encouraged to contact the Polson Police Department at: 406-8838201.

Water compact board draws closer to establishing development applications

By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

RONAN — The Flathead Water Compact board held a meeting on Jan. 12, and with that came a draft of the much-anticipated application for well drilling or development of springs. Different from the individual domestic allowance application, the presented draft of the 60DF (D) Part A form holds a number of differences for developers when it comes to establishing wells. For instance, it specifies that the maximum flow of a development well is not to exceed 35 gallon-per-minute per well, and the maximum volume is not to exceed 10 acre-feet per year. Additionally, developers will be required to obtain a cumulative water volume measurement device approved by the Office of

the Engineer to be installed on each well or developed spring. These will help with verifications of water usage in the future.

This form is just Part A of a two-part process developers will need to undergo for their new wells and springs. Part B will include information about the construction of and actual use of the well, and the form will not be established until after the draft of the Part A form is approved by the board. Approval by the board will happen after an extended period for public input. Ethan Mace, with the Office of the Engineer, emphasized that the details and impact of the form are important to developers and other interested parties. The draft will be open for public comment until the next board meeting in February.

The current draft of 60DF Part A can be viewed online at: https://dnrc.mt.gov/Water-Resources/Compacts/Draft60DFD-Part---A-Development-Domestic-Allowence.pdf

In other news:

— A draft of Form 646F, an application to construct a geothermal heating/cooling exchange well, was put on hold by the board until the next meeting to give the Office of the Engineer time to gather information about the potential impact on surface water that these wells may have as they fluctuate in temperature. With several species on the Flathead Reservation susceptible to the effects of such changes, board members expressed concern about the unknown environmental impact. The matter will be revisited at the February meeting.

— Board members also reviewed a first draft of bylaws presented by Mace and legal counsel Hallee Frandsen. The draft was created by reviewing existing bylaws of other boards while incorporating existing specifications from the compact. The board expressed hesitation about one section regarding potential removal of board members in the rare case of misconduct or poor performance, as members are appointed by Tribal government and the governor to keep a balance. An edit they recommended for this section was the removal to the appointing party rather than vote to remove the member themselves.

The last three pages on the draft document address a section on rules of decorum that are not currently incorporated into

the draft, but rather possible additions the board could make should they choose. The board will continue to review the document between meetings and will email Mace and Frandsen their edits to be addressed in the next meeting before a draft is approved.

All documentation discussed in the meeting can be viewed online at: https://dnrc.mt.gov/ Water-Resources/Compacts/ Flathead-Reservation-Water-Management-Board under the Board Meetings heading and the Jan. 12 dropdown menu. Public comment can be submitted via email at: contact@frwmb. org, by calling 406-201-2532, or mailing - PO Box 27, Ronan, MT 59864. Please note what the comment is regarding when submitting.

Mikulecky pleads not guilty to criminal mischief

POLSON — A Ronan man is accused of breaking out six windows at a neighbor’s residence. Edward Charles Mikulecky, 62, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson’s District Court on Jan. 12 to felony criminal mischief.

According to court records, on Dec. 21, a man called law enforcement to report six windows at his residence had been broken

out. The man says surveillance video shows his neighbor, Mikulecky, with a baseball bat in his hands approaching his residence. A Lake County Sheriff’s deputy responded and documented the six broken windows. The windows appeared to have been broken by “an object shaped like a bat.” The deputy went to Mikulecky’s residence. While

placing Mikulecky under arrest, the deputy noticed a baseball bat next to the couch in Mikulecky’s living room. The estimate to replace the windows came in above $1,500, qualifying the crime as a felony.

Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher set a trial date of March 27, the same day Mikulecky is to go to trial for felony DUI.

Simmons pleads not guilty to burglary, theft

POLSON — A Polson man is accused of breaking into a Polson pawn shop and stealing chainsaws. Michael Leroy Simmons, Jr., 36, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson on Jan. 11 to felony charges of burglary and theft.

According to court records, on Nov. 7 an employee of the Depoe Junc-

tion was reviewing surveillance video of the shop from Oct. 21 when he noticed images of Simmons stealing chainsaws. It was later determined that a

total of eight chainsaws, two generators and a welding tool were missing. The combined total of the items missing is more than $5,000. On Oct. 22, Simmons was reported as missing by his wife. She indicated to law enforcement that Simmons had traveled to Ravalli to sell his chainsaws.

On Nov. 9, Polson police

Reid found guilty of exploitation

POLSON — It took a Lake County jury about 30 minutes to find a St. Ignatius woman guilty of exploitation of elder or disabled person. The trial for Shaylynn Jamie Reid, 26, began in Polson’s District Court on Monday, Jan. 9, and ended the following morning with the guilty verdict being delivered by about 10:30 a.m.

According to court records, on Sept. 20, 2020, the conservator of the person in need of care, con-

tacted law enforcement to report funds missing from the victim. The funds went missing while the person in need of care was in the care of Reid. Reid was given room and board in exchange for caring for the victim. When Reid was confronted by the victim’s conservator, Reid admitted to taking the funds saying she had a gambling problem.

Reid was serving a 10-year term in the Montana State Women’s prison and had to be brought back

learned that Simmons had sold a generator to the White Elephant secondhand store in Ronan. An investigation led police to arrest Simmons in Polson on Jan. 5. District Judge Molly Owen set a trial date of July 31. Simmons remains in the Lake County jail with bail totaling $55,000.

McCay pleads guilty to criminal possession

POLSON — A sentencing date of March 2 has been set for an Arlee man convicted of dealing heroin in Lake County. Peter Alexander McCay, 36, entered a plea of guilty at District Court in Polson on Jan. 5 to criminal possession with intent to distribute. The plea agreement calls for the state and defense to jointly recommend a 10-year commitment to the Montana Department of Corrections with all but time served suspended.

According to court records on July 4, 2020, Ronan police observed a Jeep traveling north on US Highway 93. Police conducted a traffic stop on the Jeep as it did not have a properly working license plate lamp. McCay was identified as the driver, his driver’s license was suspended and he was wanted on an outstanding warrant. The officer conducting the traffic stop suspected McCay was under the influence and began an investigation. The investigation led to the discovery of a “large amount of cash” to which McCay gave varying explanations of how he obtained it. The officer obtained a search warrant for the Jeep. A subsequent search of the Jeep yielded various items of drug paraphernalia, two scales, and a baggie that contained 20 grams of a black tarry substance. The substance later tested positive for heroin at the state crime lab. A mobile phone containing pictures of suspected heroin was also seized from the Jeep.

Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher ordered a pre-sentence investigation. McCay’s attorney Justin Kalmbach of Polson says the PSI will determine how much credit for time served McCay will receive.

to Lake County for trial in the exploitation case. The 10-year term stems from a bail jumping charge to which Reid was initially given a three year deferred sentence. However, Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher revoked the deferred sentence after Reid committed forgery just five days after receiving the deferred imposition of sentencing.

Judge Christopher set a sentencing date of Feb. 16 in the exploitation case. Reid remains in custody.

Lucas pleads guilty to criminal possession

POLSON — A woman from Spokane, Washington admitted to dealing fentanyl in Lake County. Taucia Lucas, 37, entered a plea of guilty in Polson’s District Court on Jan. 12 to felony criminal possession with intent to distribute. The plea was entered as part of a plea agreement that

Stories by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal

Michael Simmons Jr.

Registration open for Soil Health Symposium

News from USDA

BOZEMAN — The Montana Association of Conservation Districts and the Natural Resources Conservation Service will host the 2023 Montana Soil Health Symposium on Feb. 8-9 at the Billings Hotel and Convention Center.

The event will feature Jerry Doan of Black Leg Ranch in McKenzie, North Dakkota, Brendon Rockey of Rockey Farms in Center, Colorado, and John Kempf of Advancing Eco Agriculture and KindHarvest.ag in Ohio. Plus, a pre-conference workshop on Feb. 7 featuring four ranchers across Montana sharing

their challenges and opportunities as they have worked to market their beef to consumers in different ways.

The Soil Health Symposium provides an opportunity for farmers, ranchers, gardeners, and technical specialists from all different landscapes, generations, and levels of experience to network and share their stories, successes, and lessons learned in the pursuit of soil management. Topics will range from human health and nutrition and how to work with partners and bankers in implementing regenerative practices to managing nutrition and microbe integrity for pest resis-

tance and high yields and grass roots organizations accomplishing great things for resources and their communities. Jay Fuhrer, long-time conservationist, will take it back to the basics with Soil Health 101. In addition to the keynote speakers, attendees will hear from more than a dozen Montana agricultural producers using the soil health principles in their cropping, ranching, and gardening systems.

Special pricing is available for students and interns enrolled in educational agriculture programs.

Learn more, get the agenda, and register at: mtsoilhealth.org.

Lucas from page 8

calls for a 10 year commitment to the Montana Department of Corrections with five years suspended. According to court records, on Nov. 28 law enforcement received information that a woman from Washington state was selling fentanyl-laced pills and driving a U-haul truck. The U-haul truck was reported stolen in Spokane after it had not been returned by the due date and rented to Lucas. Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on the truck as it drove through Polson. Lucas was identified as the driver. A search of her and the truck turned up 90 blue pills suspected of containing fentanyl.

Prosecutor Brendan McQuillan with the Lake County Attorney’s office

says in addition to the 10 year DOC term Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher recommended Lucas also attend the Elkhorn treatment center to address mental health and

addiction needs. Lucas had already served 46 days in the Lake County jail as of Jan. 12. Sentencing was set for March 2.

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valley views Early legislative wins: hunting, huckleberries, veterans, accountability

What do hunting, huckleberries, honoring our veterans, and accountability for taxpayer money have in common? Two things.

The first is that they’re all strongly supported by Montanans. The second is that we’re already well on our way to putting big wins on the board this legislative session that involve all of them.

Let’s start with hunting. We recently had the first hearing on a bill that will double the annual cap on money that private landowners can receive for allowing public hunters onto their properties via the Block Management Program.

Senate Bill 58 will sustain and improve hunters’ access to many prime

hunting grounds located on private property while benefiting landowners who participate in block management. The bill is a win for taxpayers because block management is funded by hunters, not general taxpayers. It’s also a win for conservation because it allows the state to more effectively manage our wildlife. SB 58 drew universal support in its first committee hearing.

Legislative Notes

Sen. Steve Hinebauch

Sen. Tom McGillvray

and correct waste, fraud, and abuse in Montana’s government than the Legislative Audit Division. Senate Bill 73 ensures elected officials and senior-level bureaucrats will cooperate with auditors by putting criminal penalties in place if they obstruct or unduly delay auditors’ access to needed information.

country with a dedicated final resting place. The vote to advance House Bill 81 was unanimous.

When it comes to accountability for taxpayer money, a bill has been introduced to strengthen the position of auditors in examining our state government’s operations and expenditures. No entity does more to expose

Over on the House side of the Legislature is where veterans and huckleberries come in. The House recently advanced a bill to create a veterans cemetery in Columbia Falls that will be open to the closest nine counties in the region, honoring those who’ve served our

Focus on the real issues

Affordable housing shortages. Rising food and childcare costs. Protecting our state constitution. There are a number of pressing issues facing Montanans that our representatives could (and should) be addressing during the 68th Legislative Session, issues that we elected them to handle. Instead, we’re looking at a repeat of 2021 — when extremist lawmakers abused their positions of power

and passed laws to insert government into our most personal and private decisions.

As it stands, there are more than 40 proposed bills pertaining to reproductive rights and the vast majority of those focus on barring access to care outright or otherwise threatening our right to safe, legal abortion. One draft, LC 771 by Rep. Lee Deming (R-Laurel),

Valley Views

Finally, huckleberries. Since 2007 there has been a government regulation in place that says people are supposed to report the locations of their huckleberry patches. Unsurprisingly, no one has done that. It’s an unused and unnecessary regulation, and getting rid of it is part of the Governor and Legislature’s Red Tape Relief initiative. House Bill 94 is the “huckleberry freedom bill” repealing that regulation and it has had its first hearing in the House.

Besides being strongly supported by Montanans and receiving attention

early in the legislative session, these four topics also have one more thing in common: all the bills are sponsored by Republican lawmakers.

Sen. Steve Hinebauch, R-Wibaux, is sponsoring the block management bill. Sen. Tom McGillvray, R-Billings, is the sponsor of the audit bill.

Representatives Braxton Mitchell, R-Columbia Falls, and Paul Green, R-Hardin, are the sponsors of the veterans cemetery and huckleberry bills, respectively.

As two of the Majority Whips serving in the Senate, we’re happy to report that Republicans are putting diverse, early wins on the board for Montanans this legislative session.

Tom McGillvray is a Republican senator from Billings and is the sponsor of SB 73. Steve Hinebauch is a Republican senator from Wibaux and is the sponsor of SB 58.

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.

goes as far as proposing a total ban on abortion with no true exceptions, even for survivors of rape or incest. And what we know, both from 2021 legislation here in Montana and proposed policies in other states, is that attacks like these don’t stop at criminalizing abortion but also target contraception, in vitro fertilization, and gender-affirming care.

MT Reproductive Rights Groups

No doubt about it, the months ahead will be difficult as Montanans watch legislators try to chisel away at our constitutionally protected right to privacy. But as activists, leaders, and supporters of the reproductive rights movement in Montana, we are not deterred.

Our community is united against attacks on our bodily autonomy, sexual and reproductive health, and personal medical decisions. Over

the course of the session and beyond we will be pushing back on harmful bills and backward politics — and pushing ahead on opportunities to ensure equitable access to the full spectrum of sexual and reproductive health care. Elected officials can expect to hear from Montanans across the state as we remind them that they work on behalf of their constituents, not extremist out-

see page 11

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

Read the bills

Editor,

A recent public relations piece from the ever-ready opportunist Senator Tester announced he introduced legislation to strengthen the border. I want to point out to Senator Tester and his constituents he just voted for the massive Omnibus Bill that set spending records. In that Bill, on Page 753, the Department of Homeland Security DHS $1.9 billion for ‘border management.’ Then two paragraphs down, it says they are explicitly prohibited from using it for border security. Perhaps Senator Tester should read and study the Bills he is signing, whether Obamacare or the 4,155page Omnibus Bill. Big Jon never met a problem he couldn’t solve with ‘we the peoples’ money and then bragged about it.

Ed Kugler Big Arm

os, confusion, and the development of advanced methods of killing each other. This can surely threaten our continuing human existence on planet earth. There is a clear and empowering answer to all this. It involves the ‘power of the mind.’

We humans have been gifted with minds. Our minds are not a part of our body. Minds transcend the body. The mind involves our thought system. As humans we have choices in what motivates our thinking. Many humans choose negative thoughts and fear. Many humans choose positive thoughts and love.

It seems that our world needs more public expressions of our spiritually based thought system involving trust, joy, forgiveness, peace, and love. Activating this thought system requires personal choice. This involves dedicated practice of inner listening and following the guidance.

of-state organizations pushing model legislation. We won’t stand idly by while our rights are put on the chopping block for the sake of cheap political points. We will be there every step of the way to remind legislators, the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), and the Governor’s office that Montanans deserve and demand access to quality health care, including sexual and reproductive care. We must be able to make our

most private medical decisions without their interference.

Montanans face a number of challenges in this new year. Access to quality care for our reproductive and sexual health should not be one of them. We urge Montanans to stay plugged in to what happens in Helena over these next few months, and to make a habit of calling their legislators about defeating dangerous anti-abortion bills while supporting those that uphold and expand our rights.

Signed, ACLU of Montana

All Families Healthcare

Blue Mountain Clinic

Bridgercare Crescent Montana

Hillary-Anne Crosby Montana Human Rights Network

Montana NOW Montana Racial Equity Project

Montanans for Choice

Planned Parenthood Advocates of Montana

Reproductive Health Access Project - Montana Chapter Susan Wicklund Fund

UM Gender Equity Resource Center

Choose love

Editor,

Our present lives as humans on earth are filled with increasing cha -

As I think about our present lives, Jesus comes to mind. In human body and beyond, he is a perfect example of one who chose to practice and demonstrate the power of God’s Love within each of us.

Bob McClellan Missoula

Montana man arraigned on charges for actions during Jan. 6 capitol breach

Defendant Was Captured on Surveillance Cameras Inside the Capitol Building

News from the U.S. Attorney’s Office

WASHINGTON — A Montana man was arraigned on Jan. 12 on misdemeanor charges, including disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, for his actions during the breach of the

U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the presidential election.

Patrick William O’Brien, 54, of Great Falls, is charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or

grounds, and disorderly conduct in a Capitol building. He was arrested on Jan. 5, 2023, in Great Falls and had an initial appearance in the District of Montana. The arraignment was held by videoconference.

According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, O’Brien and his juvenile son were at the U.S. Capitol building after driving for three days from Montana. A review of open-source video footage and closed-circuit video (CCTV) footage from

the U.S. Capitol building revealed that O’Brien and his son were inside of the building on that date for approximately 28 minutes. Specifically, the footage showed that O’Brien and his son entered the west side of the U.S. Capitol building through the first floor Senate Wing Door. The footage showed them entering the U.S. Capitol Rotunda from the south and waving a yellow “Gadsden” flag. Additional video and photos show O’Brien walking through the hallways of

the Capitol building.

This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana.

The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Salt Lake City Division-Great Falls Resident Agency and the FBI’s Washington Field Office. Valuable assis-

tance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

In the two years since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 950 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including 284 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

Emergency Rental Assistance Program winds down in anticipation of diminished federal funding

HELENA – The Montana Department of Commerce announced on Jan. 13 that the Montana Emergency Rental Assistance (MERA) program will stop accepting new applications on Jan. 20 at 11:59 p.m. Agency officials said this decision was made in anticipation of limited federal funding.

“The MERA program has been instrumental for ensuring people in our state have housing security. Over the past two years, we have provided more than 12,000 Montana households with rent and utility assistance,” said Montana Department of Commerce Director Scott Osterman. “In anticipation of reaching the limits of federal funding for the program, we

project that MERA assistance funding will be fully expended this spring. We will implement a freeze in new applications beginning Jan. 20, in order to continue serving Montanans currently in the program or those who have already applied.”

The policy changes are as follows:

- No new applications will be accepted after 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 20; any applications received after Jan. 13 will be processed subject to available funds. This change only impacts households which have never received MERA funding.

- MERA will continue to support households already staying in hotels or motels; however, the length of stay is capped at three months and the funding is limited to

$1,200 per month for stays approved on or after Jan. 14.

- Applications that have already been submitted will be reviewed to determine household eligibility for the program; eligible individuals who are currently enrolled in the program will continue to be funded. The pause only affects individuals who have not applied for MERA prior to 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 20.

“Pausing new applications now will allow us to take a proactive approach so we can evaluate the best use of the remaining funds, make sure individuals currently accessing the funds have time to prepare for the inevitable end of the program, and possibly extend the program for Montanans who are most in need of the assistance,” said Commerce’s ARPA Housing

Program Executive, Melissa Higgins.

The MERA program has provided thousands of eligible Montanans with financial support to help pay future and past due rent, and future utilities, including gas, electric, and internet. Since the beginning of the MERA1 and MERA2 programs, more than 12,000 Montana households received assistance with more than $109 million of total funding awarded.

The MERA program is funded through the federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program via the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (MERA1) and was expanded by the American Rescue Plan Act later that year (MERA2).

Funding for MERA1 expired on Sept. 30. Funding for MERA2 does not expire until

2025; however, due to high demand, more than half of the country’s emergency rental programs are on hold, and nearly one-quarter of them are already depleted.

The federal allocation for MERA2 was divided into three segments: The first segment Montana received was $60.8 million. In December 2022, the program met the requirements to request a second segment of more than $34.4 million, for a total to date of $95.2 million. Recently, the U.S. Department of Treasury informed the MERA program that if the additional requirements are met, the segment three allocation will be no more than $10.2 million available for Montana.

For more information, visit: housing.mt.gov

News from the MT Department of Commerce

Polson School District Adult Education 2023

Classes run from January 30-March 24

Interested participants can contact instructors directly or contact: Matt Holmes at mholmes@polson.k12.mt.us

Wood Shop

Students will have access to the shop and tools to work on projects of their choice. Students are responsible for their own materials and plans. Instructors will be available to assist students with plans, project construction, and safe operation of tools/equipment.

Instructor: Jay Sampson

Contact: jsampson@polson.k12.mt.us (883.6351 ext 221)

Fee: $30 plus materials.

Dates: Tuesday January 31-March 21 Time: 5:30-7:30pm

Location: Polson High School Wood Shop Room 214

Buff Babes

This is a 50 minute female-only circuit training fitness class. The class includes using weights, TRX straps, bands, balance, and bodyweight exercises to achieve a total body workout. All fitness levels are encouraged to attend. Please bring: clean shoes, yoga mat, water bottle, and comfortable workout clothing.

Instructor: Deanna McElwee/NASM Certified Personal Trainer

Contact: dmcelwee@polson.k12.mt.us

Fee: NO FEE

Dates: Monday/ Wednesday January 30-March 22 Time: 5:30-6:20am

Location: Polson High School Weight Room

Beginning Spanish

This is a beginning level Spanish language class. This course teaches basic language patterns and vocabulary. The instructor will give you the essential knowledge that you can apply immediately to your everyday life.

Instructor: Guadalupe Carrillo Robles

Contact: gcarrillorobles@polson.k12.mt.us

Fee: $20

Dates: Tuesday and Thursday January 31-March 23

Times: 5:30-6:30 pm

Location: Polson High School Room 213

Line Dancing

Line dancing for everyone! No experience necessary. This class is perfect for beginners to advanced dancers and no partner is needed. Let loose and boogie down to a wide variety of music. Line dancing is also a great workout – get those steps in and have a blast doing it! Come join in the fun and learn many motivating line dance routines.

Instructor: Hazle Heth

Contact Information: bazle@live.com / 406-5293452

Fee: $20.00

Dates: Tuesdays January 31-March 21 Time: 6-7pm

Location: P.H.S. Cafeteria

Joy of Knitting

Join this fun class as we will learn the following: History of knitting in the U.S. How to cast on a project. The basic knit and pearl stitch. How to read patterns. How to increase and decrease stitches. The basic cable stitch.

How to knit on different types of needles (straight, double pointed, circular), and how to finish a project!

We will begin with a scarf. You do not need any prior experience, just a smile and willingness to learn! When you finish your scarf I can help you move onto another project!

We will supply one set of knitting needles to get you started.

Instructor: Christine Ayers

Contact Information: cayers@polson.k12.mt.us / 406-260-1176

Fee: $20

Dates: Tuesdays and Thursdays January 31-March 23

Time: 5:00-6:30pm

Location: Linderman School Room 109

Beginning Hand Embroidery

Embroidery is the craft of decorating fabric or other materials using a needle to apply thread or yarn. Embroidery may also incorporate other materials such as pearls and beads. In this class you will make either an embroidery sampler pattern. Sign up for enjoyable evenings of calming handwork and

socializing.

Instructor: Bonnie Petersen

Contact Information: bpetersen@polson.k12.mt.us Fee: $20

Dates: Wednesday - February 1- March 22 Time: 5-7pm Location: Cherry Valley Elementary- Room 1

“Reiki One – A Healing Art”

Reiki (RAY-key) is a gentle, hands-on relaxation and healing technique. A type of “energy work”, it was created almost 100 years ago. It’s easy to learn, and in 4 weeks you’ll be doing it. You’ll learn what Reiki is, it’s history, about your “energy body”. You’ll learn Self-Reiki and practice doing Reiki on someone else. Give yourself a gift that will last for a lifetime. Class size is limited to 6 people.

Instructor: Vicka Lanier

Contact: 406-698-3498, email me at vickalanier13@gmail.com or go to www. helpyouheal.com

Fee: $20

Dates: Wednesday February 1,8,15,22 Time: 6:30 – 8:30 pm

Location: Polson High School Room 213

Beginning Sewing

Come and learn how to make a pillowcase with french seams out of the favorite fabric that you provide, or maybe you would like to learn how to make a zipper cosmetic bag. If you master that project and want to begin another of your choice, we have Bernina sewing machines to work to your heart’s content! Also for those who know how to sew but do not have a sewing machine, feel free to bring your project and use our machines.

Instructor: Julie Duford

Contact: jduford@polson.k12.mt.us Fee: $20

Dates: Monday & Wednesday - January 30thMarch 22 Time: 6-8pm

Location: Polson Middle School Room 21

sports shorts

Stories by Porter Counts / Valley Journal

Basketball Polson

POLSON — The Pirates hosted local rivals the Ronan Chiefs on Jan. 14, winning a hard fought game at 61-55. Polson started the game on fire, led by Jarrett Wilson who scored 10 of the Pirates 15 in the first quarter. Wilson scored another 10 in the second quarter, and finished with a game high of 25, and the Pirates led the Chiefs 34-17. Ronan struggled to get their offense going in the first half, but came back in the second with some excellent basketball on both ends of the court. The Chiefs played some tight defense, only allowing nine points in the third quarter. Led by Marto Tonasket and Koby Finley, who had 12 and 10 points respectively, Ronan clawed back into the game to set up a tight finish. After trailing by 17 at half, the Chiefs were back within five points, but the Pirates were able to hold on thanks to Espn Fisher scoring 12 of his 16 points in the second half and some solid free-throw shooting late in the fourth quarter. Polson next travel to Corvallis on Jan. 20 at 7 p.m. Ronan next travel to Anchorage Alaska to take part of the Alaska Airlines Classic on Jan. 19-21.

Charlo Boys

CHARLO — The Vikings hosted the Superior Bobcats on Jan. 13, winning convincingly at 68-49. Charlo jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, leading after the first quarter 17-9. They were able to extend their advantage at

halftime to 13, leading 38-25. The Vikings scored another 23 points in the third quarter to gain what would be an insurmountable lead. Stetson Reum led all scorers with 17 points, while Keaton Piedalue added 15, Wesley Anderson had 12 and Tucker Love had 10. Charlo next host Two Eagle on Jan. 19 at 7 p.m.

Charlo Girls

CHARLO — The Lady Vikings faced Superior Bobcats in Charlo on Jan. 13, coming up short 52-32. The first half was extremely close with only one point separating the teams at the end of the first quarter, on only four points at the end of the second. The Bobcats were able to run away in the second after the Vikings found them-

selves in trouble. Sidney Bauer led Charlo in scoring with 15 points in a solid individual performance. The Lady Vikings face the visiting Eagles from Two Eagle River on Jan. 19 at 5:30 p.m.

Girls Wrestling

Polson and Ronan MISSOULA — The Polson Lady Pirates and Ronan Maidens traveled to Hellgate High in Missoula for the Hellgate Girls Wrestling Invitational. Ronan had three champions in the tournament, leading the Maidens to a third place team finish.

Saellah Nomee won the 100 pound division in dominate fashion, winning all three of her matches by fall. Brynn Courvi-

lle also won all of her matches by fall, winning the 132 pound division. Tirza TwoTeetch took first in the 235 pound division winning two matches by fall and winning the championship by decision. In the 120 pound division, Juliette Chef took second place and Destiney Finley took sixth. Katie Dolence rounded out a great meet for the Maidens with a solid fifth place finish in the very competitive 126 pound division.

For the Lady Pirates, Harli Kinney finished highest with her second place finish in the 138 pound division, winning four matches by fall and losing by dec in the championship match. Polson Featherston took fourth place in the 165 pound division and Abighail Sorrell placed fifth in the 152 pound division.

Ronan and Polson next travel to Lewistown for the Class A Duals on Jan. 20-21.

Boys Wrestling

Polson,

MISSOULA — The Ronan and Mission-Charlo wrestling teams traveled to Missoula for the Rocky Mountain Classic hosted at Sentinal High on Jan. 13 and 14.

Koda King finished highest for Ronan, taking third place in the 145 pound division. King won five of his six matches for a solid performance in the tournament. Ridge Cote placed fourth in the 120 pound division, winning four of his six matches and making it to the semifinals. August Courville placed seventh in the 103 pound division, winning four of his six matches.

Mission-Charlo’s Canyon Sargent was their only placed athlete, taking sixth place in the ultra competitive 170 pound division. Sargent won four of his six matches and made it to the semifinals.

Ronan next travel to Lewistown for the Class A Duals on Jan. 20-21. Mission Charlo next travels to Thompson Falls for the Ted Keto Memorial Tournament on Jan. 21.

Ronan, Mission/Charlo

PORTER COUNTS / VALLEY JOURNAL

PORTER COUNTS / VALLEY JOURNAL

Polson alumni celebrate Pirates anniversary

By Porter Counts Valley Journal

POLSON — In honor of the 30th anniversary of the 1993 Polson Pirates and Lady Pirates finishing first and second respectively in basketball, Linderman Gym hosted a reunion of the teams during the Polson vs. Ronan basketball games. 1993 was the first time the Polson Pirates won the boys state class a championship in basketball. Players of the team included Neal Smith, Jarod Tait, Josh Richards, Chad Smith, Kris McKethen, Jason Smith, Brad Walter, Erick Dickson, Jamie Veis, Todd Goode, Daniel Caye and Scott Evjee. The team was led by head coach Joe McKethen and assistant coaches Bruce Thomas and Steve Nelson.

The Pirates played Havre at the Butte Civic Center in the quarter fi-

nals, winning 66-59. They then faced Whitefish in the semis, coming away with a 56-52 victory to set up a meeting with Belgrade in the final. The game went to overtime, with Polson just edging out Belgrade 59-58. Some of the groups other highlights of the season was beating AA Missoula Big Sky away and upsetting Whitefish twice, who were the top team in the state.

The group went on to obtain eight college degrees, three joined the armed service, and one started a local business in Polson.

The Lady Pirates took second place that same season in what’s still the programs highest finish. Players of that team included Jeannette Grey, Tasha Doornek-Skellenger, Julie Stene, Sara Gunderson, Sarah Hartsoch, Heather Knutson, Jaime Richards, Maribeth

SanPedro, Brooke Doepke, Nicole Dubuque, Cheri Gunlock and Teesha Chadda. The team was coached by Bruce Thomas with assistant coaches Sue Moore and Steve Nelson.

The Lady Pirates took second in Divisionals, losing in the championship to Columbia Falls. This sent them to the Challenge Game, in which they face Ronan to see who would be the second team at the state tournament. Polson held on and won 59-52 to seal their spot at state. The following week, The Lady Pirates beat Sidney in the quarterfinals and Havre in the semifinals to make it to the championship game. Although they lost the final to Colstrip 5348, they cemented their place as Polson’s highest finishing girls basketball team, a record that still stands today.

(See additional photos on next page.)

PORTER COUNTS / VALLEY JOURNAL

Polson Lady Pirates 1993 State A Basketball 2nd Place team

Polson Pirates 1993-94 State A Basketball Champions

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

From left (with 1993 last names) are: Head Coach Bruce Thomas, Heather Knutson, Jaime Richards, Sarah Hartsoch, Tosha Doornek, Brooke Doepke, Julie Stene, Jeannette Grey, Sheri Gunlock, Sara Gunderson, Nicole Dubuque, mgr. Tisha Matt, Asst. Coach Steve Nelson and Asst. Coach Sue Moore.

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

From left are: Todd Goode, Brad Walter, Chad Smith, Kris McKethen, Neal Smith, Jarod Tait, Jamie Vies, Geoff Ramsey, Asst. Coach Steve Nelson, Asst. Coach Bruce Thomas, and Head Coach Joe Mckethen.

Reaching for the Stars

News from PEO Chapter AI and Laura Rost

POLSON — PEO Chapter AI of Polson is sending a virtual bouquet of marguerite daisies to Laura Rost, a recent recipient of a PCE grant sponsored by the chapter. The grant, part of a “Program for Continuing Education,” is meant to provide funds for women whose education has been interrupted and who need to return to school to gain financial stability. The program is nationwide and also includes Canada; competition is stiff.

PEO is an international philanthropic organization that seeks to encourage, support and provide funds to service women’s educational needs, transforming their lives. Several different awards, scholarships, loans and grants are opportunities offered by PEO.

Chapter AI is one of many long-time chapters in Montana. Laura’s name was brought to the Education Committee by Shannon Nunlist. The committee’s first interview with Laura was stellar, and we knew we had a candidate with dreams of “reaching for the stars,” a PEO motto. Members of the committee, including Shannon, Sue McCormick, Carolyn Heinz and Nancy Teggeman, went to work gathering information and writing the application for Laura, while she did her part of the work. We were all ecstatic to hear of her

grant award and the entire chapter wishes her continued success in her journey to help the world become a better place through music therapy.

From Laura Rost: First, I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to the PEO Chapter AI for thinking of and supporting me through this entire process. When they first contacted me this last July, I was so humbled and honored to even be considered. To say I was in disbelief when I found out I was selected as the recipient is an understatement.

Most of the time, when I tell people my intended career path, I get confused looks. This just makes me want to spread awareness even more. So, since I have had the pleasure of informing the PEO Chapters about the ins and outs of music therapy, I would also like to shed some light on it for Mission Valley community.

What is music therapy?

Music therapy is an evidence-based profession where a board-certified music therapist creates a structured space for clients to achieve individualized goals and promote lifelong change through musical mediums. These goals can fall among the cognitive, physical, psychological, developmental, social and emotional domains. Most people immediately think about how they listen to music to alter their mood or motivate themselves, but music therapy

can be utilized to achieve a multitude of various other goals. Examples include: decreasing negative behaviors, improving social skills, improving group cohesion, developing appropriate and healthy coping skills, improving fine or gross motor movements, improving memory and even improving infant suck-swallow-breathe mechanisms … and the list goes on.

How is this done?

Music therapists use musical and non-musical interventions. Drum circles, songwriting and lyric analysis are popular interventions for increasing group cohesion, social skills, and emotional expression. Games such as Musical Bingo and Name That Tune can be useful for memory related goals. One of the most common questions surrounding this profession is “what kind of music do you use?” The answer is client-preferred music. This works well as it serves as motivation and a means of enjoyment for the client, which results in a higher chance they will participate and be successful in therapy. The beauty of this profession is that each client will present with their own set of strengths and needs, but not a single person’s therapeutic journey will be the same.

Why music therapy?

While my response to this question is really, “to help people,” this response however is it too vague to

do the field justice. Looking back, all of my previous career interests also involved helping others. I began college pursuing pediatric respiratory therapy and then later switched to music education. While music education would have given me the ability to share with others my musical knowledge, this still did not feel like my true calling. With music therapy, the various populations that I could help are nearly endless. Edu-

cating about and being an advocate for the benefits of music therapy as well as giving musical exposure to people who may not otherwise have musical experiences or opportunities – these are my goals.

I am currently working as a student music therapy intern at Arizona State Hospital, an in-patient psychiatric facility. Here, I will spend six months under the supervision of three board certified music therapists from three

campuses. I will have the opportunity to facilitate groups and accomplish one-on-one music therapy sessions. After completing my internship, I will sit for my CBMT exams, and finalize one more year of coursework. Upon graduation, I hope to work in either a mental health facility or in trauma care with the VA.

Thank you again Carolyn, Nancy, Shannon, Sue and Polson PEO Chapter AI.

COURTESY PHOTO

Laura Rost

FCA speaks at local schools

By Porter Counts / Valley Journal

POLSON — The Fellowship of Christian Athletes had four representatives from Missoula come speak to Polson High School students on Jan. 11. All four athletes shared intimate details of their journeys and struggles during their athletic careers. They varied from injuries to academic and athletic responsibilities to peer pressure. They emphasized how they used the community of FCA to help them take on

their struggles and succeed in building futures they all wanted for themselves. Each athlete spoke on how a community of like-minded individuals allowed them to blossom into the people they wanted to be, not what others thought they should be. The main point they all tried to press on the students who came during their lunch break was how building relationships with like-minded people was what helped them get back on or keep on track towards the lives they want to build.

STRIDE Challenge brings winter motivation to SOMT athletes

By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

MONTANA — Special Olympics of Montana is celebrating their third year of the STRIDE Challenge, inviting athletes involved in the organization throughout Montana to get active.

An eight-week endeavor, the virtual challenge got its start in 2021 when the ongoing pandemic caused organizers to think outside the box when it came to setting up challenges that wouldn’t put their athletes at risk. With a mission to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, Special Olympics of Montana turned to the virtual world to keep providing their athletes with opportunities during the worst of COVID-19.

Starting on Feb. 6 this year, the distance challenge invites athletes to run, walk, or roll in their wheelchairs on their own, in a traditional pair or unified

pair with a support person, or join up in a four-person team to try and reach the top of the leaderboard. Open to all ages of Special Olympic athletes, the top three finishers in each division will each receive a prize.

A new development in STRIDE this year is extra attention to working with the Unified Champion Schools department at SOMT. According to a statement from the organization, “Special Olympics Unified Schools promote meaningful social inclusion by bringing young people with and without intellectual disability together to create school communities that are accepting of all students using an inclusive sports model, Special Olympics Unified Sports.”

Athletes who sign up can do so up until the start date of Feb. 6 and will receive a tracker for their exercise, as well as a manual that includes suggested goals, instructions for measuring and tracking

distances and even “other ways to go the distance” and earn steps through other activities besides walking. Exercises like jumping rope, playing basketball and even bowling can be counted toward an athlete’s distance. The manual includes a chart with the number of corresponding steps allowed for a given activity and gives instructions for multiplying the number of minutes participated by corresponding number of steps allowed. Participants should complete their tracking on Sunday and send it in Monday to be counted toward the leaderboards.

To sign up, contact Mallory Frank at: mfrank@somt.org or call 406-315-4230. “I just started in October, so I’m excited to see this,” Frank commented.

To check the weekly leaderboards, visit the Special Olympics Montana Facebook page at: facebook.com/specialolympicsmontana

CSKT seeks Tribal hunters, land owners’ help with deer management

News from the CSKT Natural Resources Department

FLATHEAD RESERVATION — The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Wildlife Management Program responds to human/wildlife conflicts on the Flathead Indian Reservation, including both rural and urban deer depredations. Conflicts between deer and humans have become a prominent wildlife management concern, especially in urban and suburban areas. In an effort to mitigate the impacts of deer conflicts and reduce complaints, the wildlife management program will be implementing an urban deer reduction program this winter within the city limits of Polson.

Typically, wildlife agencies manage wildlife populations by using hunters to control population growth. However, there are laws and ordinances that prohibit the discharge of firearms in city limits. The inability to use hunters to regulate deer populations in these areas pose a challenge to addressing urban deer conflicts.

The wildlife management program will make full use of healthy deer carcasses resulting from these administrative takes by donating meat to Food Sovereignty Program, Elders Program, Silvia’s Store, Peoples Food Sovereignty Program, and directly to tribal members in need.

The Wildlife Management Program is seeking landowners in urban areas surrounding Polson, Montana who wish to allow trapping of deer on their lands for removal of deer. Individuals who wish to participate in this project as a landowner, or a tribal member in need of game meat, are asked to contact Kaylie Durglo at the Tribal Wildlife Management Program at 883-2888 EXT 7284 or email kaylie.durglo@cskt.org.

PORTER COUNTS / VALLEY JOURNAL

Polson schools address cyber security

POLSON — The Polson School District’s Technology Department, which is staffed by three people, supports and maintains the technology used by over 1,700 students and 300 employees. In recent years, the use of technology in education has significantly increased and evolved. Ensuring that technology services are efficient, effective, secure, and reliable is crucial to both district operations and student learning.

Every student and teacher in the Polson

School District is assigned a laptop or tablet to support the educational process. Classrooms in Kindergarten through second grade have a cart with a set of Apple iPad Tablets, as these touchscreen devices are simple and easy to use for even our youngest students. Classrooms in grades three through six have sets of Google Chromebooks, which are lightweight internet-connected laptops. Students in seventh through 12th grade are assigned individual Chromebooks at the beginning of the school year that they are respon-

sible for transporting to and from school each day, allowing them to complete schoolwork both on and off campus. In addition to laptops and tablets, each classroom is equipped with a large format interactive display, and a document camera to display text, images, videos, webpages, and other content in the classroom.

The majority of the major technology upgrades made across the district over the last four years were funded with one-time state and federal monies the district received as a response to

USDA reminds producers

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture reminds agricultural producers with perennial forage crops of an option to report their acreage once,

without having to report that acreage in subsequent years, as long as there are no applicable changes on the farm. Interested producers can select the continuous certification option after USDA’s Farm Service Agency certifies their acreage report.

COVID-19. The teaching staff has skillfully integrated these new technology tools into their teaching practices to enhance instruction and improve learning outcomes. Moving forward, the challenge is to maintain progress and incorporate the increased technology footprint in the district without additional state and federal funding. Providing students and teachers access to modern tools for teaching and learning is essential to the district’s success and in helping to prepare our students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

As the district’s technology usage has grown, so has the need to secure and protect our computer systems and networks. School districts across the country are frequently targeted by sophisticated cyberattacks. The district’s Technology Department, therefore, focuses on improving security practices, policies, and hardware in order to maintain a proactive approach to security. The district is a member of the MS-ISAC (Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Center), which provides access to resources and training on the latest

trends in cybersecurity, as well as a 24x7x365 Security Operations Center that offers threat intelligence, detection, and response assistance.

Technology is prevalent and constantly evolving in the Polson School District. While the district faces challenges such as long-term funding for technology and the threat of cyberattacks, we embrace these challenges as we work to provide an educational experience that integrates technology into the learning environment and improves the efficiency of operations.

Carroll College names locals on dean’s list

HELENA — Carroll College named the local area students listed below to its 2022 fall semester dean’s list. A student must

receive a 3.5 grade point average or higher and take at least 12 graded credits in a semester. Plains - Audrey Brown; Polson - Robin Erickson, Margaret Todd; RonanBrooklyn Kenelty, James Normandeau

Help wanted!

Mission Mountain Enterprises Care Manager - Nurse

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

We look forward to meeting you!!

Providing people with disabilities equal opportiunity.

Enzo

He is 2.5 years old. He loves to have attention and crawls right in your lap. He would be fine with other friendly cats, and dogs as long as they are cat friendly.

News from the Polson School District

News from Carroll College

News from USDA

Native Woman Program offers grants

MISSOULA — The Jeannette Rankin Foundation, the national organization dedicated to transforming futures through education, is launching the Native Woman Program for Montana Indigenous students. In its inaugural year, the program will award up to 60 education grants, called Scholar Grants, to women 25 and older attending Montana Tribal colleges.

“We are thrilled to announce the Native Woman Program,” said Michele Ozumba, president of the Rankin Foundation. “Jeannette Rankin, elected by Montanans as the first woman to serve in the U.S. Congress, was far ahead of her time in so many areas. She was a social advocate and strongly believed in the need for recognition

and education of First Americans. This program furthers her legacy while providing a significant boost to Indigenous women students who have started their education journey.”

The $2,500 individual Scholar Grants are unrestricted. Unlike traditional scholarships, they will be awarded directly to students empowering them to use the funding wherever it is most needed to reach graduation.

“Women students who are 25 and older are often juggling family, work and school. The wonderful thing about a Rankin Foundation Scholar Grant is that recipients can use it in any way they need, such as childcare, housing, transportation, technology, books or other living expenses. This agile funding, plus support services from the Rankin Foundation Scholar communi-

ty lift women and their families making the path to graduation possible,” said Ahwahnee Williams of Ronan, who is a current Rankin Foundation Scholar and the Native Woman Program Coordinator. She is also a student at Salish Kootenai College working toward a bachelor’s degree in Tribal historic preservation.

The Rankin Foundation is now accepting applications for the Native Woman Program at rankinfoundation.org. Indigenous students who meet the following requirements are invited to apply: identify as a woman/nonbinary; are over the age of 25 by June 1; and can show proof of enrollment in a Montana Tribal College, Tribal affiliation and Pell/SNAP eligibility. Grants will be awarded on a first come first served basis through May 2023.

Proud Community Partner

News from Senator’s Tester office

U.S. Senate Following sustained efforts from U.S. Senator Jon Tester, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) today proposed a rule in the Federal Register to waive copayments incurred on or after Jan. 5, 2022, for certain care received by American Indian and Alaska Native veterans. If finalized, the rule will allow Native veterans to receive their earned copayment relief as directed by a law Tester championed in 2021.

“I’m encouraged to see VA answering my call to implement the law and remove burdensome copayments for Native veterans accessing their earned health care,” said Tester. “The fact is Native veterans have bravely answered the call to duty for generations. And I’ll continue to hold VA accountable in delivering these veterans their long-overdue support.”

Last Congress, Tester led his Committee colleagues in successfully securing a law to eliminate copayments for Native veterans accessing VA health care as part of a comprehensive end-of-year bill. At a Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, Tester recently urged VA officials to quickly implement this law, and to consider making veteran copayment benefits retroactive to January 2022, in line with Congressional intent.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” - Winston Churchill

News from the Jeannette Rankin Foundation

VA moves to deliver copayment relief to Native American veterans

Winter 2023 Adult Education

January 30th-April 6th

Open Gym Volleyball

Wednesdays, 7:00-9:00 pm in Event Center

Monitor: Shanelle Skunkcap

Cost: Free

Beginners to experts, open gym volleyball is an activity for all. Bring your gym shoes and your friends!

Open Track & Weight Room

Monday-Thursday, 6:00-7:30 am & 5:30-7:00 pm in Event Center (upstairs)

Monitor(s): Vincent Bird-Webster (am) & Madison Wassam (pm)

Cost: Free

Get your sweat on!Walking track open to runners and walkers. Free weights, lifting equipment, bicycles, and more available in the weight room.

Native American Beadwork

Tuesdays, 6:00-7:30 pm in RMS Family Lounge

Instructor: Aggie Incashola

Cost: $20

What to Bring: Beads, Size B Nymo thread, Size 11/12 short beading needles, heavyweight pellon, small pack of Lite Heat & Bond, A school glue stick, Rhinestone Banding (optional)

Join CS&KTribalArtistAggie Incashola for anAdult Ed session of Beadworking. She will teach the flatApplique/ 2 needle method. Bead wrapping and Brick Stitch. The first class will be an Intro to Beadworkwhile creating a small project. We will discuss the materials needed and the concept of finding designs to bead. The second and all the following classes you will be working on your project of choice.We always have a great time.

6 Weeks to Better Health

Mondays, 6:00-8:00 pm in RMS 7th Grade Hall Commons

Instructor: Dr. Jamison Starbuck

Cost: $20

If you are looking for simple, natural and effective ways to improve your health, this class can help. This participatory course is designed to be informative, fun and useful. We will discuss nutrition, botanical medicine, relaxation and exercise techniques, hydrotherapy and medical philosophy. Each week students will be given short, cumulative assignments in each of these areas. While individual medical advice will not be given, participants progress, challenges and insights will be reviewed weekly. Students who take part fully in this class will gain knowledge, improved health, and tools for wellness that will last a lifetime.

Yoga for Relaxation

Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 pm in KWH Commons

Instructor: Nichole Cote

Cost: $20

What to bring: Yoga mat and water

In this class you will earn basic yoga poses and alignment. This is a great option for beginners and those looking for stress relief.

Women’s Choir

Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 pm in RMS Choir Room

Instructor: Cathy Gillhouse and Wendy Sanders

Cost: $20

The choirwill sing avariety of styles of music including pop, folk, light classical, spirituals, and show tunes. All ladies are welcome to join in the fun of singing.

Open Gym Basketball

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 7:00-9:00 pm in KWH Gym

Monitor: Kyler Rutz

Cost: Free

Hoop around with the community! Mini games are played all night, so bring your A-Game and equipment.

Open Gym Pickleball

Mondays, 7:00-8:30 pm in RHS Gym

Monitor: Camille Delaurenti

Cost: Free Pickleball is a fun combination of tennis and ping pong played on a court.All levels of players are welcome. Equipment will be provided or bring your own paddles/balls if you would like.

SoulFireVibin

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30-6:45 pm in KWH Commons

Instructor: Tawna Steele

Cost: $20

What to Bring: Light hand weights up to 5lbs, yoga mat, water, and a sassy attitude. Ablend of vinyasa flowYOGA, light bodyweight plyometrics, mixed in with a body groove vibe.All moves based on yogawith an attitude for life! This class is high energy AND super chill, fun and filled with laughter. Think of it as “BPMs”foryour “OMs”The class is a one-stop yoga groove-sculpt shop. For 60 minutes, you’ll be flowing from Warriorvariations, into squats and hip-openers right into a easy dance groove.

Bitcoin for Beginners

Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00 pm in RMS Library

Instructor: Brandon Johnson

Cost: $20

A Bitcoin class aimed at beginners that will cover:

● - What is Bitcoin, how does it work, and why it is important

● - What makes good money and why Bitcoin is valued

● -Why Bitcoin is special and how to avoid scams and knockoffs

● -Addressing common questions and criticisms of Bitcoin

● - How to acquire, use, and store Bitcoin

● - Security and privacy practices to keep your Bitcoin safe

● - Bitcoin in the near and long term time horizons

● - Recommended services, tools, and resources for further exploration

HIIT with Hilary

Mondays & Wednesdays, 4:15-5:00 pm in KWH Commons

Instructor: Hilary Lozar

Cost: $20

What to Bring: Yoga/exercise mat & weights you’re comfortable with Ashort, fast paced way to get yourworkout in!We do a mixture of cardio and weight training. All exercises can be modified to meet your needs!

Introduction to “Magic: The Gathering” Card Game/Open Game Night

Mondays, 6:00-9:00 pm in RMS Library

Instructor: Erik Bettwieser

Cost: $20

Learn basic rules/skills for one of the most popular collectable card games, "Magic: The Gathering." This game has been around for 30 years with over 35 million players!

Players use cards to cast spells, summon creatures and create powerful artifacts to defeat opponents using creative strategic techniques using a 40-card "pauper" deck.

Pauper is a format using only common cards, a great entry-level starting point. Decks will be provided during class. The class will be followed by open play to give students hands-on experience practicing their skills.

PUZZLES

CROSSWORD

Big bird

Ponzi scheme, e.g.

18th-century Swiss mathematician

Hereditary 21 “___ any drop to drink”: Coleridge

Daughter of Zeus and Hera

Chemical compound

Wreckage

Unit of work or energy

Mineral sources

Redbreasted songbirds

Go this way and that, weave

Moderates

A little lower

Harvest goddess

Become apparent

Underwear item 39 2012 Ben Affleck film

Common phonetic aspiration 44 College figure 45 Scrawny one 47 Oolong, for one 48 Hideous 49 Minor 50 Pan-fry 51 Bluefins

Incidental 56 Like some envelope flaps

Black ___ (cattle breed) 58 Intervals of thirds 59 Bound 60 Casual eatery 62 Blue hue 63 Enraged

Charge 69 “Beetle Bailey” dog 70 “Act your ___!”

Moray, e.g. 73 A chip, maybe 74 Calendar span 75 Asian appetizer 78 ___ roll 80 Whine 82 “Miss ___ Regrets” 84 Complete loser 87 Mrs. Bush 88 Cleans 91 “Pay attention” 92 Sammy Kaye’s “___ Tomorrow” 93 Ralph of “The Waltons” 94 Gondola pilot 95 First man 97 Antiquity, in antiquity 98 Breathing problem 99 Benzene derivative 100 Ponders 102 A Swiss army knife has lots of them 103 “i” lid 104 Little ones 106 Moved quickly 107 The whole lot! 109 Moderately sweet, as champagne 111 Channel 114 Defer 118 Emulated Pinocchio 119 Exclamation of triumph 121 De facto 123 “For Whom the Bell Tolls” guerrilla 124 Coastal raptor 125 Brouhaha 126 Deprive of food 127 Ammonia derivative 128 Computer info 129 Zero 130 Pig’s innards 131 Choker

71 Beetle juice? 76 Shrink 77 Bumpkin 78 Long, long time 79 Federal publishing agency 81 Astringent 83 Pleasant surprises 85 “___ Town Too” (1981 hit) 86 With a glow, like a flame 88 Wrapped tightly 89 Afro-Brazilian martial art dance form 90 Salve 91 Bolted 94 Leafy Chinese vegetable 96 On the double! 100 Rays 101 Straighten out 102 Last month 105 Long 106 Cyma ___ (molding type) 108 Fictional burglar Arsene 110 “I had no ___!” 112 Foolhardy 113 Experience 115 Assortment 116 ‘In’ things 117 At liberty 120 Cobbler’s tool 122 Allow

DOT-TO-DOT

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

MIRROR IMAGE

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

A B C D

MIRROR IMAGE A

GIANT CROSSWORD

Across: 1 Dogma, 6 Odessa, 12 Emu, 15 Scam, 19 Euler, 20 Lineal, 21 Nor, 22 Hebe, 23 Azide, 24 Debris, 25 Erg, 26 Ores, 27 Robins, 29 Slalom, 31 Tempers, 33 Calf, 35 Ops, 36 Arise, 38 Bra, 39 Argo, 42 Aitch, 44 Prof, 45 Scrag, 47 Tea, 48 Ugly, 49 Petty, 50 Sauté, 51 Tunas, 53 Episodic, 56 Gummed, 57 Angus, 58 Tertian, 59 Lope, 60 Bistro, 62 Sky, 63 Livid, 65 Rush, 69 Otto, 70 Age, 72 Eel, 73 Ante, 74 Year, 75 Satay, 78 Egg, 80 Yammer, 82 Otis, 84 No-hoper, 87 Laura, 88 Scours, 91 Take note, 92 Until, 93 Waite, 94 Poler, 95 Adam, 97 Eld, 98 Apnea, 99 Aryl, 100 Mulls, 102 Uses, 103 Dot, 104 Tykes, 106 Ran, 107 Yall, 109 Demi-sec, 111 Trench, 114 Put off, 118 Lied, 119 Aha, 121 Actual, 123 Pilar, 124 Erne, 125 Row, 126 Starve, 127 Imide, 128 Data, 129 Nil, 130 Haslet, 131 Noose. Down: 1 Dear, 2 Ouzo, 3 Glib, 4 Medico, 5 Arena, 6 Old, 7 Dies, 8 En bloc, 9 Seraph, 10 Sails, 11 Also, 12 ENE, 13 Mortify, 14 Urges, 15 Shop, 16 Cerebrum, 17 Aberrate, 18 Messaged, 28 Slag, 30 Martini, 32 Mess-up, 34 Filet, 37 ROTC, 39 Attaboy, 40 Reunite, 41 Gangsta, 43 Typeset, 44 Pedal, 46 Cameraman, 48 USSR, 49 Poi, 52 Autoroute, 54 Irk, 55 Sty, 56 Godly, 59 Lie, 61 Oasis, 64 Vegetal, 66 Unmutes, 67 Sterile, 68 Heralds, 71 Gas, 76 Analyst, 77 Yokel, 78 Eon, 79 GPO, 81 Alum, 83 Treats, 85 Her, 86 Redly, 88 Swaddled, 89 Capoeira, 90 Ointment, 91 Tore, 94 Pak choi, 96 Asap, 100 Mantas, 101 Uncurl, 102 Ultimo, 105 Yearn, 106 Recta, 108 Lupin, 110 Idea, 112 Rash, 113 Have, 115 Olio, 116 Fads, 117 Free, 120 Awl, 122 Let.

obituaries

Marshall Bjork

POLSON — Marshall Loren Bjork passed peacefully in his home in Polson on Jan. 8, 2023, at the age of 85. Marshall was born to Earl and Clara Bjork in Great Falls and spent his early years in Malta and Lincoln before the family settled in Stevensville, where he graduated from High School in 1955. He graduated from Montana State University in 1959 with a degree in Industrial Engineering. It was during his time in Bozeman that he met Betty Louise Eager, whom he would marry in 1960 and spend the rest of his life with. He was accepted into Officer Candidate School for the United States Marine Corps following graduation; he served three years in the Marines and resigned his

commission in 1962 with the rank of Captain. It was also during this time that he and Betty started, and completed their family with the births of Kristin (1961), Gregory (1962), and Darryl (1963).

For the next 10 years, Marshall achieved success in the manufacturing industry, receiving numerous promotions, but also numerous transfers, as the family relocated more than a dozen times to cities in California, Nevada, Colorado, and Arizona. In 1972, Marshall and Betty decided it was time to return home to Montana after a summer fishing trip to Lake Mary Ronan, during which they fell in love with the Flathead. In October of ’72, they purchased Carl’s Union Service from Carl and Peggy Seifert in Polson, moving the family there that fall. It would be their last big move as Marshall and Betty would become fixtures in the Polson community for the next 50+ years.

In 1980, Marshall and Betty found a beautiful

property on Flathead Lake near Big Arm and went to work turning it into their own private paradise. In 1989 they built their dream home, designed by Marshall, on the property and remained there until 2017, when they moved back into Polson. They both loved Placid Cove, the unofficial name of the property, and they especially enjoyed sharing it with their family and friends.

In retirement Marshall was involved with numerous charities, including Cheerful Heart, Toys for Tots, and Meals on Wheels. All who knew Marshall were well aware of his love for MSU and the Bobcats; he and Betty were regulars at Bobcat football games, traveling to Bozeman for almost every home game for nearly 20 years. The couple also created the Marshall and Betty Bjork Rural Student Teacher Scholarship. Marshall and Betty traveled extensively but were especially fond of their winters in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, along with many of

their Polson-area friends. Marshall also enjoyed any time spent with his four grandchildren - Madeline, Colton, Lauren, and Rachel, as well as his two great-grandsons - Weston Gerke and Braxton Bjork.

A service to honor Marshall’s life will be held at Immaculate Conception Church in Polson, at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2023. All are welcome. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at: www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

Violet Lewis

POLSON — Violet Viola (Pinkerman) Lewis, age 92, passed away quietly on Dec. 27, 2022. She was born to Violet Hazel (Gauss)

Pinkerman and Karl Clifton Pinkerman on Feb. 21, 1930, in Anaconda. The family, along with her brother, Duane, moved to the East Shore of Flathead Lake in 1941.

Vi graduated from Polson High School in 1948 and lived and worked at the bowling alley until being accepted into the Hollywood Flight Academy for stewardess training. She was hired by Western Airlines in 1951 and flew as a stewardess for 10 years out of Salt Lake City and roomed with fellow stewardess, Betty McCoy. She then became a Regional Manager of stewardesses for Western Airlines out of their Denver hub, where she lived with her husband, Don Lundberg. They later divorced.

In 1970, Vi retired from the airlines and married Virgil “Escoe” Lewis, (her brother’s brother-in-law), on Valentine’s Day. They moved back to Billings and then finally back to the East Shore of Flathead Lake where they owned and operated a cherry orchard. They were very hap-

Continue to keep yourself and others safe from COVID-19

News from Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services

COVID tests can help you know if you have COVID-19 when you have symptoms, have been exposed, or are about to meet up with others.COVID. gov is a website with helpful information and a place where you can order free at-⁠home

COVID-⁠19 tests this winter.

Every U.S. household is eligible to order four free at-home COVID-⁠19 tests. For help placing an order for your at-⁠home tests call 1-800-232-0233, (TTY 1-888-720-7489).

Masks

Wear a mask to protect yourself and others when you go indoors in public. Free N95

masks are available at many local pharmacies and healthcare providers. Check with stores in your area to see where you can find free masks. Learn more about masks and where to get them

Treatment

Treatments for COVID-⁠19 are now widely available. If you test positive for COVID-19, talk to

a doctor as soon as possible about treatment options.

The Test-to-Treat program is one easy way to get treatment. Test-to-Treat locations will give you a test and treatment. To find a Test-to-Treat location near you go to: https://covid19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs. hub.arcgis.com or call 1-800232-0233.

pily married for 39 Years.

Vi had many fun adventures with the airlines and enjoyed being back home on Flathead Lake. She loved animals and could not get enough licks and kisses from puppies and kitties.

Vi was preceded in death by her husband; brother; and stepdaughters, Shari and Merrie.

She is survived by her sisters-in-law, Ruth (Lewis) Pinkerman and Rosemary (Lewis) Jensen; her stepsons, Mark and Steven Lewis; her niece, Kari (Pinkerman) Nelson; her nephew, Kip Giles and step grandchildren, Jason Lewis of Alaska, Emily Lewis of Oregon and Alicia Thomas of Washington and their families.

Any donations can be given to animal charities of your choice. A summer memorial is planned.

Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

Vaccines

Being fully vaccinated and boosted is the best way to protect against severe illness and hospitalization from COVID-19. Everyone ages five and up who’s already been vaccinated is eligible for new vaccines that have been updated to restore protection and target the Omicron variant.

Marshall Bjork

Violet Lewis

Polson

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — The Polson Senior Center is open from 8 a.m.– 3 p.m. on weekdays. Lunch is available from 11:45 a. to 12:30 p. weekdays. For more information call 406883-4735, Email: polsonseniorcenter@gmail. com; mail or visit us at 504 Third Ave. E.

Income tax filing assistance is available now at the Polson Senior Center. Call for an appointment day and time.

We are developing for our members a Facebook page, email list, guest WIFI, etc. Contact the center for more information.

Activities: Bowling Fun League: pay by the da, non-sanctioned, no-tap, weekly on Tuesdays at 1 p.m.

Bingo: regular bingo Fridays at 7 p.m. “Playing Card” bingo on the first Wednesday and third Thursday of each month, help wanted

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

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

Bridge: Tuesdays and Fridays at  12:30 p.m., open for all

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

Veterans’ Rep: first Friday (Feb. 3) and

third Tuesday (Jan. 17) of each month from 10 a.m.noon

Menu (subject to change): sit-down, takeout, call before 10 a.m. for delivery, serving from 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m., only $5

— Wednesday, Jan. 18:  hot turkey sandwich, potatoes, gravy, buttered corn, 3-bean salad, raspberry fluff

— Thursday, Jan. 19: fish, mac ‘n cheese, peas, apple sauce, carrot-raisin salad, Jell-O — Friday, Jan., 20: Shepherd’s pie, stewed tomatoes, biscuit, green salad, fruit crisp — Monday, Jan. 23:  Minestrone Soup, focaccia, Jell-O, vanilla pudding — Tuesday, Jan. 24:  Swedish meatballs, buttered pasta, peas and carrots, baked apple, spinach salad, s’mores cake

— Wednesday, Jan. 25: orange chicken, fried rice, stir-fry vegetables, Watergate salad, brownies — Thursday, Jan. 26: pigs in a blanket with cheese, pickled beets, pasta salad, fruit crisp

— Friday, Jan. 27: birthday lunch - traditional roast beef dinner with all the fixings and cake too

St. Ignatius

By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — The roads and sidewalks have been a challenge. Drive and walk safe.

We will be having a “Guess the Kisses” in a glass container contest and a 50/50 raffle. It will cost $1 for each guess and entry into the 50/50 starting on Jan. 18 at the evening meal and at each meal un-

til the Feb. 15 Valentines dinner. The winner(s) will be chosen on Feb. 15 at our evening meal.

Menu: — Friday, Jan. 20: lunch at noon - soup and sandwiches, green salad, fruit, Rice Krispie Treats — Tuesday, Jan. 24: lunch - stroganoff, vegetables, French bread, fruit, no bake cookies

— Friday, Jan. 27: taco salad, fruit, corn salad, cook’s choice

— Tuesday, Jan. 31: fish, vegetables, corn bread, fruit/Jell-O, lemon bars

If you are interested in a take-out meal, please call by 10 a.m. and leave a

message if there is no one answers.

Bonnie Kiser holds a Gentle Yoga class on Wednesday afternoons at 1 p.m. If you are interested please call 406-22530171. Her rates are five sessions for $60.

The St. Ignatius Police Chief will give a “Narcan Training” at the St. Ignatius Fire Hall on Jan. 28. To sign up, please go to the St. Ignatius Police Department Lake County Montana Facebook page. There is an online course that needs to be completed before the hands-on training. The Center will host the training - date not set at this time. They

will post the date as soon as it is confirmed.

The St. Ignatius Senior Citizen Center is looking to hire a Site/Nutrition Manager. If you are interested, come in or call and we will return your call. It would be helpful if you know the Quick Books computer program.

On March 22 there will be QPR (question, persuade, refer) Suicide Prevention training at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. It is presented in cooperation with the St. Ignatius Police Chief. This is an important training as Montana is number one in the nation for suicides. All are welcome.

Wednesday, Jan. 18

Cutthroat Volleyball tryouts, registration to begin

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

Co-op holds drum circle

RONAN — The Western Montana Musicians’ Co-op at the Red Poppy Building, Hwy. 93 & Eisenhower, will hold a drum circle from 7-9 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 18. This event is hosted by Doug Ruhman. Come play; come listen. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 406-290-3549 or go to: www.mtmusic. org.

Thursday, Jan. 19

Free Restorative Foot Clinic held

POLSON — Bonnie Mueller will provide a Restorative Foot Clinic on Thursday, Jan. 19, at 11:30 a.m. at Mission Fitness, 805 Seventh St. E. This free one-hour clinic is offered to members and non-members on the third Thursday of each month. Please call 406-253-1682 if you plan to attend.

26 - January 18, 2023

Agency on Aging to host SPLASH

POLSON — The Western MT Agency on Aging, 110 Main Street, Suite 5, will host the January SPLASH meeting from 5-7 p.m. The public is invited. Meet the agency’s new Executive Director, Lori Thibodeau.

Grazing, Ag Conference held

MISSOULA — Conflux Brewing, 210 Pattee St. in Missoula, will be the site for the 2023 Western Montana Grazing and Agriculture Conference on Thursday and Friday, Jan. 19 and 20. Registration is $50. There is a block of rooms available at the Doubletree.

For more information go to: https://lakecountyconservationdistrict. org/2023-western-montana-grazing-and-agconference/ or the Lake County Conservation District’s Facebook page.

Friday, Jan. 20

Co-op holds bluegrass jam

RONAN — The Western Montana Musicians’ Co-op at the Red Poppy Building, Hwy. 93 & Eisenhower, will hold a bluegrass jam from 7-9 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 20. This event is hosted by Lydia Conway. Come play; come listen. Everyone is welcome.

For more information call 406-290-3549 or go to: www.mtmusic.org.

Saturday, Jan. 21

‘Sorry ‘Bout That’ Half Marathon, Team Relay on tap

POLSON — Polson Running will hold their ‘Sorry ‘Bout” That Half Marathon and Team Relay” on Saturday, Jan. 21 starting at 309 Ridgewater Dr. The course will be clockwise this year. If you wear a costume you get a .30 second head start. Packet pickup is the same day only. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. The race starts at 11 a.m. and awards are given out at 2 p.m.

Co-op holds community jam

RONAN — The Western Montana Musicians’ Co-op at the Red Poppy Building, Hwy. 93 & Eisenhower, will hold a community jam from 7-10 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21. This event is hosted by Doug Ruhman. Come play; come listen. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 406290-3549 or go to: www. mtmusic.org.

Monday, Jan. 23

Library hosts author book signing

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

demic reaches the mining town of Butte, Montana.

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

Learn cash flow management

Wednesday, Jan. 25

Co-op holds night school jazz jam

RONAN — The Western Montana Musicians’ Co-op at the Red Poppy Building, Hwy. 93 & Eisenhower, will hold a community jam from 8-11 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 25. This event is hosted by Lee Whalen. Come play; come listen. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 406-290-3549 or go to: www.mtmusic. org.

Irrigators to meet using December agenda

RONAN — The Flathead Irrigation District will hold their monthly meeting on Jan. 25 at 1 p.m. at Mission West Community Development Partners, 407 Main Street SW.

The December monthly meeting was cancelled due to emergency travel only so the December agenda will carry over to the January meeting.

Join a free Business Startup workshop

RONAN — Mission West Community Development Partners, 407 Main St. SW, is offering a free workshop on the basic elements of getting a new business up and running, from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 25. Call 406-676-5928 or go to: www.missionwestcdp.org for more information.

Valley Journal

RONAN — Mission West Community Development Partners, 407 Main St. SW, is offering a free workshop entitled, “Cash Flow Management: Cash keeps you in Business,” on Wednesday, Jan. 25, beginning at 1 p.m. and running for approximately two hours. Learn how to increase cash in the business with five basic formulas.

Call 406-676-5928 or go to: www.missionwestcdp.org for more information.

Thursday, Jan. 26

Learn about library’s technology

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will hold class to learn about a technology class entitled, “Get Ready for Library Renovations,” on Thursday, Jan. 26, at 2 p.m. What will change and what will stay the same at the library? Have your renovation questions answered and brush up on some important skills that will give you the most uninterrupted access to library materials possible while we look forward to a remodeled building. Learn how to search the public catalog, manage your library account, place holds for pick up and more.

Learn about Montana fiber

ZOOM — Montana folks can learn about Montana fiber at a ZOOM presentation by

Barbara French and Helen Harris of the Montana Fibershed on Thursday, Jan. 26, from 6:30-8 p.m. Like a watershed, which defines a catchment and drainage area for a given landscape, a “fibershed” is a geographically-defined area in which natural fiber resources are produced and then used by the people living within its boundaries. Montana Fibershed seeks to educate Montanans on the benefits of a place-based, local fiber system. This free event is open to all. You can register at: tinyurl.com/ MTFibershed

Friday, Jan. 27

Co-op holds open mic

night

RONAN — The Western Montana Musicians’ Co-op at the Red Poppy Building, Hwy. 93 & Eisenhower, will hold a open mic night from 7-9 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27. This event is hosted by Michael Moore. Come play; come listen. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 406-290-3549 or go to: www.mtmusic.org.

Saturday, Jan. 28

Co-op holds community jam

RONAN — The Western Montana Musicians’ Co-op at the Red Poppy Building, Hwy. 93 & Eisenhower, will hold a community jam from 7-9 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28. Come play; come listen. Everyone is welcome. For more information go to: www.mtmusic.org.

Law Requires the Water Court To Adjudicate the CSKT Compact

THE FACTS:

It’s the same process followed for every Montana Water Compact.

The Preliminary Decree quantifies the water rights contained in the CSKT Compact. Water right holders have been informed through mailings, newspaper ads, and a public hearing. The deadline to comment to the Water Court has been extended to February 9th, 2023.

The CSKT Compact prevents a long and expensive legal battle, provides protection to existing water right holders, protects the ability of irrigators to use water, and emphasizes local control of Montana’s water resources.

LEARN MORE: montanawatercompact.com PAID FOR BY FARMERS AND RANCHERS FOR MONTANA

classifieds

Announcements

Special Notices

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

Wanted

WANTED TO BUY

Guns and/or ammunition, old or new.

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

Wanted: Valmar and Gandy air seeders, implement mount style. Call Paul at 763-286-2037 with model and condition.

Employment

Help wanted

Job Opportunity – Eagle Bank Customer Service Supervisor and New Accounts Specialist - The Customer Service Supervisor is responsible for ensuring branch operational activities run smoothly and efficiently by providing leadership and support to the Customer Service Representatives. New Account Specialist processes and/or oversees all aspects of the deposit accounts to include but not limited to opening, boarding, and servicing. Must consistently apply sound decision-making techniques and ensure compliance with existing policies and procedures, while looking for opportunities to improve efficiencies. Reinforce superior customer service and a positive branch environment through own example. Full time position of (40) hours

28 - January 18, 2023

per week

Location – Eagle Bank – 80 Heritage Lane, Polson MT Salary – Depending on experience Closing Date – Wednesday Jan. 25, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m. Minimum of five years of banking experience is required. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Should possess in-depth knowledge of banking regulations and ability to assess and address compliance risks for various bank products and services, customer types, and banking transactions. Eagle Bank will provide an employment preference to members of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, to members of other federally recognized Native American tribes and to members of Alaska Native Corporations. To apply, contact Jolene Houle, Chief Financial Officer, 80 Heritage Lane, Polson, MT 59860; (406) 872-2189 phone, (406) 883-2949 fax; www.eaglebankmt.com

IRRIGATION ENGINEER I NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must possess, at a minimum, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Hydrology, Geology, Hydro-geology, or other related Engineering degree from an accredited Engineering College with emphasis in one or more of the following areas: construction engineering, construction project management, irrigation infrastructure design, hydraulics, hydrology, geotechnical engineering, and design of irrigation infrastructure. Must possess an Engineer Intern (EI) license or ability to acquire in 6 months. A Professional Engineering (PE) license is preferred. Must maintain a current and valid Montana driver’s license during employment. Must wear Tribal provided safety apparel as required. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application,

copy of relevant transcripts and/or training certificates, a copy of a valid driver’s license, completed background supplemental questionnaire, proof of Tribal enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is negotiable dependent on experience. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, Jan. 26, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

RECORDS MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT HEAD RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, data science, management information systems, health and human development, or social science related field from an accredited university is required; preference will be given for emphasis in research or data management. Ten (10) years’ management experience which must include full responsibility in supervision of technical or higher-level employees AND five years of increasingly responsible work experience in managing budgets, certifications, bookkeeping, and databases. Preference will be given for verifiable experience in administrative/management related functions for tribal government, Indigenous communities and/or similar organizations. Ten (10) years of increasingly responsible work experience in work planning, productivity, reporting of outcomes, and developing data tracking for reporting and records management. Must have experience in development

of policy and procedures; experience with coordination of Board(s) is desirable. Experience with legal, ethical, and moral approaches with Native Americans is a must. Must pass local, state, and federal background checks (upon hire and yearly thereafter) and is subject to CSKT Drug and Alcohol Policies. Must have a valid driver’s license or be able to obtain one within six (6) months. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, a completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, a copy of relevant transcript, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of the DD214 to the Tribal Personnel Department. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a prehire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040 for an application. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org. The salary range is $30.94 to $35.56 per hour, including benefits.

Closing date will be Thursday, February 2nd, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

management required with preference given for a Bachelor’s degree, ten years of experience in clerical/administrative oriented experience with five years of increasingly responsible work experience in managing databases or other research responsibilities. Preference will be given for verifiable experience with Indigenous Research. Five years of increasingly responsible work experience in developing data/research tracking for reporting and records management. Must pass local, state and federal background checks (upon hire and yearly thereafter) and is subject to CSKT Drug and Alcohol Policies. Must have valid Montana driver’s license or be able to obtain one within six (6) months. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, a completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, a copy of relevant transcripts, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of the DD214 to the Tribal Personnel Department.

at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

RECORDS CREATION OFFICER (RCO) RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The successful applicant must possess an Associate’s degree with preference given for a Bachelor’s degree. Ten years of experience in clerical/ administrative oriented field with five years of increasingly responsible work experience managing databases. Preference will be given for no less than 5 years’ verifiable experience with database creation and management.

Five (5) years of increasingly responsible work experience in work planning, productivity, reporting of outcomes, and developing data tracking for reporting and records management. Five years of increasingly responsible work experience in developing data/ research tracking for reporting and records management.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE

EMPLOYER.

INFORMATION, EDUCATION & TRAINING OFFICER RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The successful applicant must possess an Associate degree AND five years’ verifiable work experience in records

FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a prehire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040 for an application. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org. The salary range is $23.00 to $26.44 per hour, including benefits.

Closing date will be Thursday, February 9th, 2023

Must pass local, state and federal background checks (upon hire and yearly thereafter) and is subject to CSKT Drug and Alcohol Policies. Must have valid Montana driver’s license or be able to obtain one within six (6) months. Must be able to lift/carry a minimum of 40 pounds. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, a completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, a copy of relevant transcripts, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of the DD214 to the Tribal Personnel Department. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION

DURING

THE SCREENING PROCESS. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination

resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a prehire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040 for an application. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org

The salary range is $18.37 to $21.12 per hour, including benefits. Closing date will be Thursday, February 9th, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT - RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma or GED and a minimum of 5 years’ clerical/administrative oriented experience which must include verified experience with bookkeeping/ accounting. Five years of increasingly responsible work experience in data tracking, scheduling, contract/account management, and procurement responsibilities. Must have valid Montana driver’s license or be able to obtain one within six (6) months of hire AND be able to lift and carry 35 pounds. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, a copy of relevant

transcript, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of the DD214 to the Tribal Personnel Department. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040 for an application. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org. The salary range is $18.03 to $20.72 per hour, including benefits. Closing date will be Thursday, February 9th, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

PUBLIC HEALTH REGISTERED DIETITIAN POLSON AREA - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must be certified as a registered dietitian with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). A bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics, with 3 years of experience in community health, or a master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics, with 1 year of experience in community health. A valid driver’s license. All applicants must

submit a Tribal application, copy of academic transcripts, certificates and licensure, copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. Failure to submit all of the above information will result in immediate disqualification during the screening process. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $26.19 to $30.10 per hour, plus benefits. May be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available on-line at cskt.org. The closing date is Thurs., Feb. 2, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. MST. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

RESEARCH & INFORMATION OFFICER (RIO) - RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The successful applicant must possess a BA or BS degree with preference given to the computer science, statistics, and data management. Ten years of experience in clerical/administrative oriented experience with five years of increasingly responsible work experience in managing databases or other research responsibilities. Preference

will be given for verifiable experience with Indigenous Research. Five years of increasingly responsible work experience in developing data/ research tracking for reporting and records management. Must pass local, state and federal background checks (upon hire and yearly thereafter) and is subject to CSKT Drug and Alcohol Policies. Must have valid Montana driver’s license or be able to obtain one within six (6) months. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, a completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, a copy of relevant transcripts, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of the DD214 to the Tribal Personnel Department. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a prehire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040 for an application. Tribal applications

are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org. The salary range is $19.91 to $22.89 per hour, including benefits. Closing date will be Thursday, February 9th, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

HIRING WEATHERIZATION POSITIONS, program manager $20 - $28 DOE and weatherization crew member at $18 - $22/hour, full benefits. Full job description at Lewistown Job Service or https:// www.hrdc6.org/jobs

PUBLIC

HEALTH NURSE (1 or more positions in Polson/Elmo locations)

TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from an accredited college of nursing. A valid and unrestricted Registered Nurse license in the state of Montana or compact state. Three years of full-time nursing experience providing direct patient care, with at least one year of Public Health or Community Health Nursing preferred. Supervisory experience preferred.

A background to manage and supervise a broad range of public/community health nursing skills and public health programs. Public Health Nurse certificate, within 6 months of employment. Basic Life Support (BLS) for healthcare providers certification, Heart Saver CPR does not qualify. Incident Command System (ICS) 100, 200, 700 certification within 4 months of employment. A valid Montana driver’s license with ability to operate a vehicle. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, copy of academic transcripts, certificates and licensure, copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. Failure to submit all of the above information will result in immediate disqualification during the screening process. Salary is $29.08 - $33.43 per hour, plus benefits, may be employed under a contract. To apply, contact the Tribal Personnel Office at (406) 6752700, ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applica-

classifieds

Help wanted

cont’d from pg. 29

tions and full advertisement are available online at www. csktribes.org. Closing date is Thursday, February 2, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m.(MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

REFERRAL COORDINATOR TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT – St. Ignatius 1 OR MORE POSITIONS

The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma or GED. One (1) year experience as a referral coordinator or similar type duties working with the referrals of patients for treatment and diagnostic students, or a minimum two (2) years’ full time experience as a medical receptionist, medical assistant, or other medical related field. Prefer three (3) years’ medical experience with demonstrated customer service in a medical facility. Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript/training certificate, completed supplemental background questionnaire (contact the CSKT Personnel Department), copy of driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary is $15.42 to $17.73 per hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date is Thur., Feb. 2, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m. (MST).

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER

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

The successful applicant must possess a Master’s of Science with three (3) years of relevant professional-level experience or Bachelor’s of Science with a minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional-level experience. Education must be in the field of hydrologic sciences, engineering, agricultural sciences, soil sciences, or closely related physical science field with emphasis on surface or groundwater hydrology. Education and experience must demonstrate analytical and quantitative aptitude. Possession of a valid state driver’s license with the ability to obtain a Montana driver’s license within six (6) months. Must have liability or full coverage insurance on personal vehicle (if used to travel off-site in performance of duties). Must wear Tribal government identification and safety apparel when conducting field activities. Required to successfully complete a certified defensive driving course approved by the Department every three (3) years thereafter. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copies of relevant transcripts and/or certificates, a copy of a valid driver’s license and current proof of liability or full coverage insurance, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $26.16 to $30.07 per hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. This position will

close on Thursday, February 2, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

REGISTERED DIETITIAN (CLINICAL) - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Successful applicant for registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) must have met the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s (CDR) criteria to earn the RD credential. Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) status preferred. Level 1 RDN: Bachelor’s degree in dietetics from an accredited program. Prefer experience with electronic health record applications. Level 2 RDN: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in dietetics from an accredited program with five years’ experience as a registered dietitian in a comparable area of specialty. Prefer registered dietitian with Certified Diabetes Educator status. Prefer experience with electronic health record applications. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, copy of academic transcripts, certificates and licensure, copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. Failure to submit all of the above information will result in immediate disqualification during the screening process. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary is $27.65 - $31.78 per hour, plus benefits. May be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1040, or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org Closing date will be Thursday, February 2, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. (MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Enviro-Tire is hiring for 1 CDL driver. This position is open immediately. No tire loading, drop and hook only.

CDL Class A truck driver with doubles endorsement for Montana, Idaho and Washington day runs. Home every night. Work site is in Lonepine, Mt. Year-round, full-time position. Pay $25.00 per hour for experienced, qualified drivers. Mandatory DOT drug testing. Vacation & holiday pay. Office phone and fax (406) 755-7716. enviro-tire@ montanasky.com

HOME VISITING PARENT EDUCATOR - CONTRACT POSITION - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

The successful applicant must possess an Associate’s degree/90 quarter credits with 2 years’ work experience in Social Work, Psychology, Human Service, Child Development/ Education, or Health Fields working with at-risk children, parents and families. And/ or 4 years’ work experience providing direct services to individuals, groups, families, or communities regarding issues including: mental health, poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, domestic abuse, rehabilitation, social adjustment, child care, medical care, and child development. Experience maintaining case records and preparing reports. Experience conducting social services-based research, including the use of the Internet. Experience with small group meeting facilitation. Ability to communicate clearly, effectively, and persuasively orally and in writing. Experience working in a collaborative project preferred. Must be certified or willing to obtain certification in the Parent As Teachers curriculum. Must not have had a conviction of driving under the influence of substance or a per se within the last three (3) years. Current Montana Sate driver’s license and liability insurance. All applicants must submit a completed Tribal employment application, a completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, a copy of relevant academic transcripts and training certificates, a copy of current valid driver’s

license and proof of liability insurance, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT & if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of your DD214.

FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed Background Investigation is required prior to being placed in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $15.86 to $18.23 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1029. Tribal applications

are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, February 2nd, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Farm/Ranch Animals

Use Happy Jack® Seal N Heal® on dogs, cats & horses to close wounds with a bitter taste. Allow healing. At Tractor Supply® (www.fleabeacon.com)

Miscellaneous

Pets & Supplies

Caucasian Mountain Shepherd Dog Puppies. Purebred. Born 11/03. Three males and one female. Call or Text (406) 210-4807

For Rent: 3 bdrm/2 bath home close to Polson golf course and Flathead Lake.

$1995 per month plus utilities. NO Pets. NO Smoking. Call 406-249-6689.

PSYCHOMETRY

Missing something or someone? Let’s talk. Donations accepted. Kat 406-304-8893 Vehicles Miscellaneous

INVENTORY

CLEARANCE SALE

Auto /Truck Starters and Alternators. 305 units, all remanufactured and tested for earlier vehicles, prior to 2000. Closing business. Selling off all rebuilt starters and alternators at 55% off retail. If your car or truck in 1997 or older, at this price you can afford to have a spare. Call Jerry at 406-207-4641.

Wanted

WANT TO BUY Old truck, car or motorcycle to restore. Anywhere in MT. 406-270-8630 anytime.

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

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

Email: justin@polsonlegal.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

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

Cause No. DP-22-94

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860

Telephone: 406-883-5367 jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: VIOLET VIOLA PINKERMAN LEWIS, Deceased.

Cause No.: DP-23-2

barred as creditors of the decedent.

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

Legals

Legals

John A. Mercer Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP Attorneys at Law 312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367 jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com

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

/s/ Katie Cherlyn Harding Katie Cherlyn Harding

Personal Representative Estate of Marilyn Dolores Salomon, Deceased.

Jan. 4, 11 and 18, 2023 MNAXLP

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

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

Dated this 9th day of December, 2022.

/s/ Michele Andrews Personal Representative C/O Kalmbach Law Office, PLLC 1 5th Ave. W. Polson, MT 59860

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

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

/s/ Steven Escoe Lewis Steven Escoe Lewis

/s/ Mark Anthony Lewis Mark Anthony Lewis

Co-Personal Representatives Estate of Violet Viola Pinkerman Lewis, Deceased.

Jan. 18, 25 and Feb. 1, 2023 MNAXLP

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

Cause No.: DP-22-97 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Kalmbach Law Office, PLLC Justin Kalmbach, Esq. PO Box 249 1 Fifth Avenue West Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: (406) 883-1159 Fax: (406) 883-1497

Jan. 4, 11, and 18, 2023 MNAXLP

John A. Mercer Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP Attorneys at Law

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

HandMADE Montana

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