01-24-24 issue

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your homegrown newspaper January 24, 2024

Vol. 20, No. 19

Multi-school collaboration brings monster drawings to life

By Summer Goddard Valley Journal

Extreme cold pg. 8

Schools pg. 14

Sports pg. 16

POLSON — Cherry Valley first graders got to see their monster drawings brought to life as stuffed “animals” and in books and videos last Friday.

The event at Cherry Valley Elementary School was the culmination of a several monthslong, multi-school project spearheaded by Polson High School Family and Consumer Sciences teacher Stephanie Anderson. Anderson heard about another school completing a similar project during a FACS conference she attended last June and thought she’d give it a try.

First, Anderson invited participation from Cherry Valley students to make monster drawings. Joanie Bowen’s first grade class accepted the invitation and submitted their monster drawings last September. Next, Anderson had students in her high school clothing and textiles class sew stuffed monsters

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

First grader Ruby Epperson smiles up at Zoe Schroeder while holding her new monster stuffie and watching a video based on her drawing. Schroeder and fellow middle schooler Aubrey Wilmar, left, presented Epperson with the book and video they made in their media class for her.

based on the drawings.

Initially planned as a draw a picture, make a monster project, the idea grew further when Polson Middle School eighth graders in Tessa Hupka’s ELA class then wrote stories about the

monsters. Students spent a month or so writing stories with dialogue that focused on a theme around lessons - i.e. crossing the street safely, or friendship.

The project expanded even further when stu-

w w w.va l le yj our na l.net

dents in Tami Morrison’s media classes created books and videos based on the monsters’ stories.

Middle and high school students surprised first graders with the sewn monsters, books and videos on Jan. 19 at

Cherry Valley school.

Middle schoolers Cash Brown and Dawson Nash worked together to create a book and video. They used Google Slides to create the book see page 2

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

A Cherry Valley first grader watches a mini movie based on a story written from a monster drawing he made last September.

monsters to life

from page 1

and print it out Brown explained. To make the video, they used Adobe Premiere software.

A QR code printed on the book links each story to its corresponding video. Classmate Case Cox added that students from different classes don’t typically work together and that he thought the collaboration was fun.

Mixed media students Olivia Cottet and Siena Taylor agreed that the project was fun. Their favorite they said was sharing the monsters, books and videos with first graders who were excited to see what was made from their initial drawings.

“I’m most excited by how many students were involved and bringing three schools together,” Anderson said.

vj

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Jackson Mays is handed back his book “Dave the Hero,” the story of which was based on his drawing of a monster attached to a bag in the background.

Clapp earns top firefighter award at annual banquet News from the Polson Rural Fire District

COURTESY PHOTO

Acting Captain Grant Clapp, center, was voted Firefighter of the Year by his peers and awarded a commemorative axe. Chief Will Woodger (left) and Deputy Chief Jack Clapp (right) flank Capt. Clapp.

2 - January 24, 2024

POLSON — Firefighter Grant Clapp was awarded Firefighter of the Year at the recent Polson Rural Fire District firefighter appreciation banquet.

Matt Dougherty was awarded the Fire Chief ’s award for his overall contributions to the department and the fire district.

The Rookie of the Year was awarded to Shaun King for outstanding performance of a firefighter in their first year of Valley Journal

service.

About 60 people attended the banquet held at the Mission Valley Elks Lodge, including the firefighters and their families. Also in attendance, Rural Fire District Board Chair, Fred Nelson and Board secretary Kelley Druyvestein along with their respective spouses. Lake County Commissioner Gale Decker and his spouse were also present.

Chief Will Woodger, who was hired last August to replace retiring Chief Gordon Gieser, gave high praise and

gratitude for the firefighters and the many hours of volunteer time they put in to the Rural District department.

Over the past year, the department responded to 238 calls.

The chief also pointed out that the community was better served by the fast response time with which calls were handled.

The department expresses their gratitude to the many Polson businesses that donated items and gift certificates that were given to the firefighters in appreciation of all that they do for the community.

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This Week’s Weather Forecast Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Jan. 25

Jan. 26

Jan. 27

Jan. 28

35°/30°

36°/27°

34/23°

34°/27°

37°/29°

Cloudy 19% chance precipitation

Rain/Snow Showers 33% chance precipitation

Mostly Cloudy 16% chance precipitation

PM Rain 31% chance precipitation

Mostly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation

Wednesday Jan. 24

Thursday

Monday

Tuesday

Jan. 29

Jan. 30

36°/27°

Partly Cloudy 20% chance precipitation

37°/28°

Mostly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation

Flathead Lake Level N/A (N/A below full pool)

WED

1/24

8:14 am

5:23 pm

4:34 pm

8:14 am

THUR

1/25

8:13 am

5:25 pm

5:19 pm

8:47 am

FRI

1/26

8:12 am

5:26 pm

6:29 pm

9:11 am

SAT

1/27

8:11 am

5:28 pm

7:37 pm

9:31 am

SUN

1/28

8:09 am

5:29 pm

8:44 pm

9:47 am

Precipitation 0.00 inches

MON 1/29

8:08 am

5:31 pm

9:49 pm

10:01 am

Record High 51° F

TUES

8:07 am

5:32 pm

10:54 pm

10:14 am

1/30

Valley Journal

Today in History Jan. 24, 2023 High 31° F Low 21° F

Record Low -22° F

January 24, 2024 - 3

contents HD91 candidate............5 Obituaries....................20 Chromium detected.......8 Seniors........................22 Births.............................9 Calendar......................24 Valley Views.................10 Classifieds.................. 26

frosty branches

And find us online for

contact us

more photos, videos, breaking news and special sections!

www.valleyjournal.net

Boone Goddard

Summer Goddard

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

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

Valley Journal The Valley Journal newspaper (PE 23-190) is published weekly by Valley Journal LLC. Periodicals postage paid at Ronan, MT. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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

Your homegrown newspaper serves residents of Lake 4 - January 24, 2024

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

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

2024 County and the Flathead Indian Reservation.

Deadline for display advertising is 2 p.m.Thursday.

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

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

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archives. Sign up online at: www.valleyjournal.net/ subscribe For general inquiries: call 406-676-8989, email summer@valleyjournal.net, or send mail correspondence to P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT 59864.

Copyright 2024, the Valley Journal. All rights reserved.

Reproduction, reuse or transmittal in any form or by any means is prohibited without written permission of the Valley Journal.

Shelly Fyant announces HD 91 candidacy From Shelly Fyant, HD 91 candidate

ARLEE — Longtime community leader, Shelly Fyant, launches her campaign for House District 91 this week. The district includes urban and rural communities in Lake, Sanders and Missoula counties.

Shelly has worked a lifetime supporting important community issues, from voting rights, environmental quality, and quality education of the youth. She has led community improvement efforts and as Chairwoman of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), she applied her values to working with Montana Governors, state and federal leaders, and influential organizations and businesses. Her career demonstrates a commitment to serving the community.

“People speak of protecting Montana values. To me, that means preserving the environment, planning for future growth and development, and respecting the diversity of the people we serve,” Fyant said. “I’ve gained experience to work across the aisle to draft and sponsor bipartisan legislation to create a better Montana. I am willing to tackle difficult issues and help come up with solutions to ensure a better world for our future generations.”

Forming a Unified Incident Command System (ICS) Team between Lake County and CSKT when the Covid-19 pandemic hit Lake County was critical. This quick interagency response was key with the goal of protecting the public health and safety of all Lake County and Flathead Indian Reservation residents. Shelly and former Lake County Commission Chairman Bill Barron joined forces to lead this effort focusing on

Shelly Fyant

clear communication, accountability, and efficient use of resources.

Shelly currently works for the Arlee Community Development Corporation as the Food Sovereignty Chair. She has been a proponent of food security, having laid the groundwork for the CSKT Food Sovereignty Committee, which has developed into a pilot program addressing food security on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

During her Tribal Council tenure, Shelly ushered in an updated government system. While on Council, she saw the return of the Bison Range to the Tribes as part of the Water Compact legislation, as well as the purchase of the former Kerr Dam, now Selis Ksanka Qlispe Dam. As part of updating the tribal government structure, Shelly helped develop seven resolutions to encourage more work on addiction, mental health, language and culture, homelessness, food security, earning opportunities and jobs, entrepreneurship, and

business ownership. Additionally, CSKT passed the Cultural Waterways Ordinance (the tribal version of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act) to protect the Flathead River.

Prior to serving on CSKT’s Tribal Council, Shelly worked at the Kicking Horse Job Corps Center for 15 years serving disadvantaged youth ages 16 to 24.

During that time, she developed the first School-to-Work program, establishing internships in the surrounding communities where student trainees could get practical work experience in their field. She served as the Career Technical Training Director overseeing the nine vocational training programs prior to her successful election to Council.

Shelly also worked for the U.S. Forest Service in the Region 1 Information Office and the Powell Ranger District while attending University of Montana. After she earned her B.S. in Business Administration-Management she worked at the Clearwater National Forest Supervisor’s Office in Orofino, ID. She served as the Native American Program Manager acting as a tribal liaison between the five Idaho tribes and the U.S. Forest Service. She moved back to the Flathead Reservation to help create the former People’s Center cultural center and museum, now the Three Chiefs Cultural Center.

“Growing up in Arlee, Montana, I always admired those who actively made a difference in our community - I knew from a young age that I wanted to dedicate my life to doing the same thing. I learned from the best mentors how hard work and dedication were needed to make positive change, and I am committed to elevating this region and our state,” Shelly said. “I look forward to serving Montana.”

Valley Journal

briefs

Legislative Listening Tour to stop in Ronan

News from the Democratic Montana Legislators

RONAN — On Thursday, Jan. 25, at 6 p.m., at the Ronan Mission Valley Senior Center, 528 Main Street W, Senate Democratic Whip Susan Webber (D-Browning), Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee Mary Caferro (D-Helena) and Sen. Shane A. Morigeau (D-Missoula) will hold a public Legislative Listening session in Lake County.

Democrats are on a Legislative Listening Tour to hear from all Montanans about the direction the state is moving. This winter, the tour heads to the western side of the state with a focus on rural areas.

These face-to-face sessions give legislators the chance to hear the public’s ideas and concerns. The tour has traveled 11,086 miles across many of Montana’s landscapes. The Legislative Listening Tour kicked off in Great Falls this summer, and has made additional stops in Belgrade, Fort Peck, Laurel, Red Lodge, Lewistown, and Havre.

Feb. 1 deadline for shooting range development grant applications News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

HELENA — The application deadline for Shooting Range Development Grants is Feb. 1.

Approximately $300,000 in funding is available.

Montana’s Shooting Range Grant Program, administered by FWP, provides funding to nonprofit shooting clubs, organizations, local governments and school districts to build and improve public shooting ranges throughout the state.

To learn more about the Shooting Range Grant Program and to download this year’s grant application, visit FWP’s website at: fwp. mt.gov/aboutfwp/grant-programs/shooting-range.

Online registration is available at: funding. mt.gov. For more information, contact Seth McArthur at: smcarthur@mt.gov or 406-4443753.

January 24, 2024 - 5

BLM invests $6M for ecosystem restoration Bipartisan infrastructure law funds benefit eight states News from U.S. Dept. of the Interior, BLM

MONTANA — The Bureau of Land Management recently announced nearly $6 million for ecosystem restoration projects in seven western states and Florida. The funds are available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, a signature feature of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda.

“The funding announced today from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will advance important restoration projects, putting Americans to work on our public lands to help restore wildlife habitat and protect clean air and water,” said BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning. “We are proud to use this key investment to work closely with our partners to improve the health of our public lands.”

About $2.5 million of the investment will be directed toward projects

using Good Neighbor Authority, which allows Federal land management agencies to create agreements with

“

We are proud to use this key investment to work closely with our partners to improve the health of our public lands.”

HELENA — On Friday, Jan. 19, Governor Greg Gianforte issued Executive Order 2-2024 declaring a state of energy emergency to make it easier for carriers to supply much-needed propane, heating oil, and diesel fuel during harsh winter conditions.

“Montanans have seen harsh winter weather this week, affecting families through power outages, frozen water supply lines, loss of heat, ice jams, and supply chain disruption,” Gov. Gianforte said. “This executive order will ensure the timely and necessary delivery of petroleum products so that Montanans 6 - January 24, 2024

- Tracy Stone-Manning

non-Federal partners for projects on public lands.

Projects being funded through the investment include: Montana $750,000

Governor Gianforte issues executive order to ensure Montanans stay warm News from the office of Governor Gianforte

to expand a partnership with Fort Belknap Indian Community, doubling an investment made last year. The

can continue to heat their homes.”

Deliveries to individual homes and businesses have been delayed by extreme road conditions, cold, and deep snow.

Executive Order 2-2024 temporarily suspends “hours of service” regulations for carriers actively involved in transporting propane, heating oil, and diesel fuel to communities across Montana. The order requires that carriers and commercial drivers operate their commercial motor vehicles in a safe and prudent manner, and that “hours of service” requirements must be followed if a driver needs immediate rest.

project is part of Seeds of Success, the national wildland seed collecting program. This co-stewardship effort integrates Indigenous knowledge and employs Tribal

youth in restoration of Great Plains grassland prairies on public lands that are part of the ancestral homelands for the Aaniiih and Nakoda Tribes.

To date, BLM has allocated more than $61 million toward ecosystem restoration from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Good Neighbor Authority partnerships account for nearly one-quarter of the total amount, with other large investments aimed at restoring lands impacted by historic mining, improving sites and increasing access to

recreation, and restoring public lands impacted by wildfire, drought, and other human and natural causes.

BLM’s conservation and ecosystem restoration program advances President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative which aims to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.

For more information about the BLM’s investments using the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, visit: BLM.gov/ infrastructure.

District Court: legislature has final say over Governor’s veto News from Upper Seven Law

HELENA — The Montana First Judicial District Court held today that the Governor and the Secretary of State must follow the clear procedure the Montana Constitution mandates and allow the Legislature the opportunity to override the Governor’s veto of Senate Bill 442—a popular, bipartisan bill the Governor vetoed on the final day of the 2023 legislative session.

Per the Court’s order, the Governor must send the bill and his veto message to the Secretary of State, and the Secretary must poll the Legislature.

The Court rejected the Valley Journal

Governor and the Secretary’s claim that a loophole in the text of the Montana Constitution excused their failure to initiate the out-of-session veto override process. They claimed the veto occurred during the final hours of the legislative session—even though the full Legislature did not receive the Governor’s veto message until after it had adjourned sine die. The Court rejected this argument, stating, “As a practical matter, the legislature cannot vote to override a veto before it is aware of the veto.”

Moreover, the Court explained that the framer’s intent removes any ambiguity: “[T]he governor must transmit the veto message and the secretary of state must

conduct the override poll in the manner established by Article VI, Section 10(4).”

“Governors cannot opportunistically time their vetoes to stifle the Legislature’s constitutionally guaranteed override authority,” said Rylee Sommers-Flanagan, Executive Director of Upper Seven Law and counsel to Wild Montana and the Montana Wildlife Federation. “The Montana Constitution contemplated precisely these circumstances and the Governor, and the Secretary must comply—because no one is above the Constitution.”

Consolidated Petitioners and Plaintiff were represented by Upper Seven Law and Black Law Office respectively.

Outfitter, guide permit reauthorizations begin

Livestock reports, payments due March 1

Reauthorization for existing outfitter and guide permits for Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex

News from the MT Dept. of Revenue

News from Forest Service Department of Agriculture

HELENA — Starting this month, the Forest Service is accepting comments on reauthorization of existing outfitter and guide permits for the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex.

“We are working with a team of specialists from the Helena-Lewis and Clark, Lolo and Flathead national forests to evaluate and reauthorize permits that are set to expire in April 2025,” said Rocky Mountain District Ranger Mike Muñoz.

“Outfitters and guides help connect people with their public lands and we are looking for comments from the public that voice concerns or support for reauthorization of these permits.”

Outfitting is provided for under the Wilderness Act of Sept. 3, 1964 (16 U.S.C. 1131-

COURTESY PHOTO

Pictured above is the view looking out over Headquarters Pass located in the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. This part of the Complex is managed by the Rocky Mountain Ranger District.

1136) and is authorized in each of the Forest Plans of the three national forests that manage the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. Each outfitter has a forest contact that ensures activities taking place on the

forest minimize impact to these remote areas and help convey stewardship ethics. If permits are reauthorized, their term would go from 2025 to 2035. A decision is expected in June of 2024.

Visit: https://www.fs.usda. gov/project/hlcnf/?project=65359 to learn more about this project and find information on how to submit comments. The deadline to submit a comment is Feb. 2, 2024.

MONTANA — Montanans have until March 1 to report the number of each type of livestock they own and to pay the per capita fees set yearly by the Montana Board of Livestock.

This is the first year the payment due date has been March 1. The Board of Livestock has also changed per capita fee rates this year.

Livestock owners must report and pay for what they own as of Feb. 1, 2024. If you reported last year but no longer own livestock, you still need to submit a reporting form to let us know your livestock count is zero.

Owners can report and pay online through the department’s TransAction Portal at https://MTRevenue.gov/livestock.

Owners preferring a paper reporting form can download one at: MTRevenue.gov, or call 406-4446900 for assistance.

START YOUR NEW YEAR OFF RIGHT Set your year up for success by putting your health and your family's health first. Is everyone caught up on their annual visits, vaccinations, and recommended screenings? This is the time to catch up on your care needs and put your best foot forward in 2024.

Happy New Year from the team at St. Luke!

Call (406) 676-4441 or visit www.stlukehealthcare.org Valley Journal

January 24, 2024 - 7

Cold front causes extreme, low temps during mid-month freeze Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

LAKE COUNTY — Extreme cold blasted the area mid-January after a thus far mild winter with snowstorms and temperatures dipping around negative 20.

The extreme cold impacted many with frozen equipment and home water pipes, poor road conditions, and for those working in agriculture, livestock increased the struggle.

Pablo Maldonado, the owner of Sierra Farms in Polson, shared some of the challenges that come with the cold. “The biggest challenge for the animals is to make sure they stay

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO

warm and make sure they have high energy feed to give them the ability to stay warm,” he said.

Community member and

tractor mechanic David Decker said, “Well, it gets cold every year and you need to prepare for it by adding fuel additives and plugging in your equip-

ment and making sure you are in good shape before it hits.

Every year, when it gets real cold, as it did, I am always getting called out to come work on equipment that froze up. It’s normally just the fuel filter that has gelled up and froze making it so they can’t get up and running.”

Gene Posivio, a long-time bus driver in St. Ignatius, worked through many challenges to keep school transportation going.

He reminds parents, “When it’s cold out make sure your kids are dressed for it since they have to be out in the cold.

The buses aren’t always the

warmest.”

Posivio sees at least one positive benefit of snow-covered roads. “There is always a risk you face when driving on icy roads,” he said, “but honestly, I do enjoy it since it makes the roads smoother so there are less bumps and potholes to deal with.”

“My advice to other drivers,” Posivio adds, “is to be aware that the roads aren’t as good as they are in summer and take it as slow as you need to.”

Temperatures have pushed back up into the high 30s with some forecasts predicting a climb to the 40s by the end of the month.

FDA detects chromium in recalled applesauce DPHHS urges Montanans to continue to check their homes, discard products News from DPHHS

MONTANA — Federal, state, and local health officials continue to urge Montanans to check their homes, childcare facilities, and schools for recalled cinnamon-containing applesauce or apple puree products (listed below) and discard them immediately.

Recent FDA product testing shows high levels of chromium in the recalled apple cinnamon puree pouches, in addition to high levels of lead.

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) also urges medi8 - January 24, 2024

cal providers to continue to monitor for possible cases of lead poisoning and chromium exposure in children who may have consumed the recalled products. Healthcare providers can refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity (COCA Now) announcement for updated clinical guidance.

According to the FDA, people who ate the recalled products, especially if they had elevated blood lead levels, may have also been exposed to chromium. These individuals should talk with their healthcare provider about monitoring for signs and symptoms related to chromium exposure and whether additional testing is warranted.

The following products were

recalled by the FDA in November 2023 due to reports of elevated levels of lead found in certain units: WanaBana brand apple cinnamon fruit purée pouches Schnucks brand cinnamon applesauce pouches Weis brand cinnamon applesauce pouches According to the FDA and DPHHS, these products were sold at 19 Dollar Tree stores in Montana prior to the recall announcement and have been removed from all of these locations across the state.

These products were also sold and available nationally through multiple retailers, including Amazon and other online outlets. At least one purchase from an online source has been reported in Montana.

Montana is among the 38 Valley Journal

states reporting individuals with elevated blood levels after consuming the recalled products. As of January 9, 2024, Montana has identified five individuals residing across Montana with elevated blood lead levels associated with consuming the recalled cinnamon-containing applesauce products.

“New information suggests these recalled applesauce products are contaminated with more than one heavy metal. If you think your child may have consumed recalled fruit pouches, you should talk to your child’s health care provider” said Dr. Maggie Cook-Shimanek, Public Health Physician at DPHHS. “These products have a long shelf life, so consumers are advised to check their homes and discard them im-

mediately.”

There is no safe level of lead exposure, but the CDC uses a marker of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter to identify children with blood lead levels higher than most.

In this outbreak, the reported symptoms of children who consumed the contaminated applesauce product may include, but are not limited to, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a change in activity level and anemia.

Cook-Shimanek said children are more vulnerable to the health effects of heavy metal exposure than adults because they are still developing, making it especially important to avoid exposure.

For more information, see the CDC or FDA investigation webpages, current as of January 5, 2024.

births Providence St. Joseph Medical Center announces first baby of 2024 News from St. Joseph Hospital

POLSON — Braxton Ross Andrus was the first baby born at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in 202.

Braxton was born at 10:43 p.m. on Jan. 9, 2024, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. He was 21 inches long and weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces. Braxton’s parents are Chrysta Cran and Dylan Andrus of Polson. Braxton’s maternal grandparents are Christopher Cran and Janae Cran, and his paternal grandparents are Christopher Andrus and Mary Langlow. Welcome to the world, Braxton.

Saturday, February 3rd

Saturday, February 3rd

Salish Kootenai College Gym

Salish Kootenai College Gym 10am– 2pm

10am– 2pm

If you are a new parent, an expecting parent, families with children ages 0 - 5 years old, a If you are a new parent, an expecting parent, families with children ag PHOTO BY LINDSAY LAWS / LIFETIME PHOTOGRAPHY community member, please join us!

Braxton Ross Andrus

Shiloh Courville-Clark RONAN — Shiloh Apollo Jade Courville-Clark was born on Jan. 11, 2024, at the St. Luke New Beginnings Birth Center. He measured 7 pounds, 3 ounce and 20 inches long. Parents are Lucas Clark and Bethany Workman of Ronan. Paternal grandparents are Kendra Schiele and Adam Fife of Ronan.

Maternal grandparents are Diamond Courville and Jason Courville of Ronan.

- 5 years old,ana expecting communityparent, member, pleasewith join us!

If you are a0new parent, families children -Lunch will be provided -Book Walk -Vaccinations - Hearing -Lunch will0be- provided -Book Walk -Vaccinations - Hearing 5 years old, a community member, pleaseScreenings join us! Screenings -Pregnancy Education - Tobacco Information – Health

Pregnancy - Tobacco Information – Health -Job Information – Narcan – Vis Narcan –-Vaccinations VisionScreenings Opportunities -Lunch will beEducation providedInformation -Book–Walk - Hearing Screenings - Door Prizes -Car Seat Safety & Inspections -Dental information

Screenings -Job Opportunities - Door Prizes– Health -Car Seat Safety & Inspections Pregnancy Education - Tobacco Information Information – Narcan-– -Face Painting -Breast Feeding Information -Chair Massages

Dental information -Face Painting -Breast Feeding Information -Chair Massages

-Substance Abuse Prevention – Early Child Development Screenings -Job Opportunities - Door Prizes -Car Seat Safety & Inspections -

-Self Care Information -Literacy Information -Family Pictures Substance Abuse Prevention – Early Child Development -Self Care Information -

Dental information -Face Painting -Breast Feeding -Chair Massage - Parenting Information andInformation much more!

Literacy InformationThere -Family Pictures - Parenting Information much more! will be many community organizations available toand share

Abuse Prevention – Early Child Development -Self Care Information Substance Shiloh Courville-Clark

their information!

will be many-Family community organizations available to share their LiteracyThere Information Pictures - Parenting Information and informatio much mo For more information, please call CSKT Early Childhood Services (406) 745-4509

There For will morbe eValley inmany foJournal rmatcommunity ion, please callorganizations CSKT Early Chilavailable dhood Serto vicshare esJanuary (40their 624, ) 72024 45informa --94509

valley views The gift of darkness Y

ou know how might offer to a child themes someafter a bad dream or one times repeat themselves that might be whispered throughout your day, during a horror movie. week, year or life?

It isn’t like that. In my It happens lesson (let’s to me a lot. call it that) At least redarkness isn’t Jill Pertler Syndicated columnist cently. Or the bad guy. maybe such Instead, it’s synchronisthe conduit. tic occurrences have alDarkness allows passage ways been there and I’ve into what’s next: into just recently learned to the light. Darkness alpay attention to them. lows us to understand I guess that detail the light. Without darkdoesn’t matter. What ness, light would cease does, is that I’m paying to exist - and vice versa. attention now. And Darkness and light lately, a common theme need one another. has been darkness.

Over the last three Or more specifically years, I’ve done my best the goodness that dark- to attempt to describe ness can portend. and define grief. It’s It seems counterintubeen one of the bleakitive. est, darkest periods I’ve To be extremely sucever experienced. It’s cinct, the message I’ve also been one of the been getting is, “Don’t most enlightening. be afraid of the dark.”

Hence the conunBut it isn’t like the nor- drum and the cadence mal ‘don’t be afraid of of the darkness and the dark’ phrase that you lightness.

Slices of Life

letters

We must remember to love

Editor, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” (Martin Luther King). And so I write.

As we celebrate the legacy of MLK this month, reflection 10 - January 24, 2024

Grief is elusive. It lurks in the corner, but fills the room. It excuses itself for a momentary absence and you breathe a sigh of relief but then it is back again and you realize it never, ever left in the first place.

Grief may seem like darkness. It may be darkness.

But grief is transformative. It can change its shape and it changes yours. It changes you. It changes all it touches.

Grief begins as complete darkness. You can’t look in front of you, or behind. You feel very alone. But, if you hear breathing near your ear, or feel it next to your cheek, you know you are not alone. If you perceive hope behind you or sense it beside you, you are not alone. If you feel anything - a brush against your skin, the wind moving your hair, the sun on your face

might be valuable. If he were alive today, what could he teach us about slavery and the Civil War? About Jim Crow laws, school segregation, and mass lynchings? Could he explain the Tulsa, Oklahoma massacre (1921) or the 100 massacres that occurred between the Civil War and the 1940s? (William Darity;

– you know you are still alive, and perhaps that is something.

Your darkness may be all-encompassing, but look closely. There is a light, an ever-so-tiny light – a glimmer – in the corner, just within the periphery of your vision. When you turn toward it, it disappears, but it is there. You know it. You saw it. At least you thought you did.

You look again, and there it is. a pin prick of light. Could it possibly be light?

It seems to be growing stronger. Moving toward you, or are you moving toward it?

And with that, you realize the darkness is steering you toward the light. The darkness doesn’t want to hold you or keep or inhibit you.

The darkness understands. It exists to show what the light truly means. What the light

Duke University). What about 14-year-old Emmett Till? These racist events are all old news, yet searing still.

Today, what would Martin say about Charlottesville, dog whistles and conspiracy theories?

What about gerrymandering, redlining and the racial wealth gap? What would he think of Valley Journal

truly is, and how much we can glean from it.

And in that, you realize darkness has nothing to do with the boogie man or bad dreams. Darkness is necessary to awaken us to its opposite. Darkness is a gift, but only if we make it so. Only if we realize that the darkness is beckoning us toward something beyond. Something more. Something greater. Something beautiful.

Something illuminating.

Take all you can from the darkness; steal from it if you must. Use it to grow. And learn. And become wiser than you ever could have become if all you’d known was the light. Realize the darkness is in place to teach; garner as many lessons from it as you can. Let it show you all it knows.

It is then that your own brightness will tru-

book banning and whitewashing Black history? What would he say about Trayvon Martin, Black Lives Matter, or George Floyd?

Or the January 6th insurrection?

Most importantly, how would Martin feel about the FBI and DHS identifying white susee page 11

ly shine.

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author.

Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

LETTER POLICY Letters to the editor are welcome. The content is the opinion of the letter writer and not the newspaper. The decision to publish letters is made by the editor.

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

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

Space limitations also dictate when or if letters are published.

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

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

Friday to publish the following week.

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

letters from page 10

premacist violence as the “leading threat of domestic terrorism in the U.S.?” (Wikipedia).

Where would he place our national moral compass? And...how would he advise us to vote in the election this year?

As a teacher, I learn so much from children.

So I am honored to quote a young student, Alaia Domenico, a first place winner of the Missoulian’s MLK essay contest: “We have achieved so much as people...Yet to see, we continue to make the same mistake...We forget to love.”

Nancy Teggeman Polson

Enough already Editor, It’s unbelievable that newspapers across Montana are singing the climate change mantra. Our state is the laughing stock of the nation after our courts allowed kids, backed, funded, and coached by a leftist law firm out of state, to sue the state with absolutely nothing but anecdotal evidence.

If climate change was real, do you think President Soetoro would have bought a house on the beach? In 1975, Newsweek ran a piece on the coming ice age. World cooling was all the rage until it wasn’t. Enter Al Gore, born and raised with a golden spoon in his mouth. He has never had a real job and ushers in global warming.

It worked for him; he became a billionaire, but a single prediction of his or John Kerry’s has never come to fruition. All those climate refugees pouring across our southern border, drum roll please, is an invasion planned to destroy the good ole US of A for good.

I say, enough already. Open your eyes and think for yourselves for a change. There is a global government coming, and they will use any and all means to destroy our country because we are all that stand between a global government modeled after China and freedom.

Keep your head in the sand at your own peril.

The fat lady is singing, and the canary has just dropped dead.

Ed Kugler Kalispell see more letters on page 12

Acting like we own it W

hen I was in · Greta Thunberg prison for my was a young Swedish girl nonviolent anti-nuclear who began the climate actions, one of my discistrike movement that plines was to write some- prompted governments thing for publication dai- far beyond her own to ly--a letter to the editor, act. Too young to vote, an opinion piece, a book not a citizen of anyplace review, or even mediocre except Sweden, and yet poetry. One hundred she profoundly particpercent of ipates in my writdemocracies ing was in from the opposition UK to New Tom H. Hastings to nuclear Zealand to weapons. the US and I couldn’t beyond, so vote while I was incarinfluential she was Time cerated. But I refused magazine’s Person of the to stop participating in Year in 2019. our democracy. If I could · In the spring convince even two people of 1963, more than a to care enough to vote thousand young students who had not been voting skipped school in Bireven though they were mingham, Alabama, to able to, and if they voted protest segregation and for a candidate who was the anti-democratic Jim opposed to nuclear weap- Crow voter suppression ons, I felt like this was that black people enhow I was still part of the dured in Alabama. They democracy of my country. couldn’t vote because Who are the people they were too young who cannot vote and who and their parents were are yet a part of how our routinely stopped from democracy functions? An voting because they were incomplete list, but one black. Yet their campaign, that I hope gives some called the Children’s hope to those who wish they could vote in our American elections: · Surviving students from the horrific 2018 Valentine’s Day mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas high school were too young to vote and yet started a movement that built enough pressure on politicians to achieve some legislative victories.

PeaceVoice

Valley Journal

Crusade, was instrumental in inspiring mass support across the US for both the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. · In Liberia, dictator Charles Taylor rigged “elections” and maintained his iron grip on power, so there was no democracy in which to participate during his rule, which featured a particularly brutal 14year civil war with child soldiers on both sides, rape and massacres.

The Liberian women united in nonviolent resistance, rose up and stopped the war and created a new real democracy.

The countless stories of disenfranchised people around the world making a difference in their democracies--or even creating democracy where there had been none--can help motivate us when we feel like it’s hopeless.

It is never impossible to participate in democracy. People like Rosa Parks, John Lewis, Alice

Paul, and so many more are still influential even though they’ve passed on.

This is your democracy, even if you are 15, even if you are undocumented, even if you are incarcerated. We all own it, we all can make it stronger and more responsive to what we need, to justice, to a world fit for life. Five minutes of action a day by millions of us can be the best protection of our hope, our rights, our freedom from fear, our freedom to love and live.

Democracy is way deeper than one vote every few years. It will live or die, depending on our commitment to it. We are powerful, every one of us.

Dr. Tom H. Hastings, PeaceVoice Senior Editor, is Coördinator of Conflict Resolution BA/BS degree programs and certificates at Portland State University.

Hastings, PeaceVoice Senior Editor, is Coördinator of Conflict Resolution BA/BS degree programs and certificates at Portland State University.

January 24, 2024 - 11

letters from page 11

Retired judges endorse Dan Wilson for Supreme Court Editor, As retired Montana judges, we join to endorse Judge Dan Wilson of Flathead County in his bid for election to the Montana Supreme Court. This year, Montanans will elect two new Justices to our state’s highest court. Chief Justice Mike McGrath and Associate Justice Dirk Sandefer have announced their retirements at the end of 2024. Judge Wilson is running for the Associate Justice position.

We have the unique perspective as retired members of Montana’s judiciary to have observed Judge Wilson’s years of work as a District Court Judge. We find that he possesses the experience and background, judicial demeanor and work ethic, and a singular devotion to the Constitution and rule of law to make him a stalwart member of our Supreme Court.

We hope you will join us in supporting Judge Dan Wilson for the Montana Supreme Court.

Honorable Russell C. Fagg, District Court Judge, Montana Thirteenth Judicial District (Retired) Honorable Ed McLean, District Court Judge, Montana Fourth Judicial District (Retired) Honorable Karen Townsend, District Court Judge, Montana Fourth Judicial District (Retired) Honorable John Warner, District Court Judge, Montana Twelfth Judicial District (Retired) and Associate Justice of the Montana Supreme Court (Retired)

vj 12 - January 24, 2024

Get to know your judges A

s you learn about all the candidates for various offices this year, the most important ones are the ones that most Montanans know the least about. The politicians you need to do the most research on are not the would-be congressmen, governors, or even legislators.

It’s the judges.

Although they claim to be above the political fray, judges in Montana are in fact politicians. From the district courts to the state Supreme Court, they’re elected. They have to run campaigns, raise money, and their fate is ultimately decided by voters.

Increasingly, judges are also inappropriately wading further into the role of policymakers, acting not as mere arbiters of legal disputes.

That makes it all the more

Legislative Notes

important for voters to do their homework.

The stakes over who Montanans put on the bench have never been higher.

In just the past handful of years, judges have: Mandated an entirely new regulatory scheme for CO2 emissions, placing thousands of natural resource and manufacturing Rep. Barry Usher HD 40 jobs at risk while also endangering our state’s ability to produce enough energy to keep homes heated and lights on; Blocked laws aimed at increasing the supply of reasonably-priced homes while infringing on property rights and bizarrely purporting to enact HOA-type property restrictions on entire neighborhoods of people that never agreed to be in any

homeowners’ association; Decided that unelected higher education bureaucrats have the final say over how college students can exercise their First Amendment rights on university campuses; Blocked voter ID for election security, and much more.

Surely, not all judges are overstepping their bounds into legislating from the bench. Enough of them are, however, that Montanans need to be questioning every would-be judge in the state.

Problematic judicial rulings on any topic can occur in any local district court, not just the state Supreme Court.

It’s no longer enough for Montanans to wait until the last minute before deciding who to support for judicial positions. Because judges are prohibited from running as Republicans or Democrats

and from expressing their opinions on how they’d rule on various issues, reliable information about how a judge will perform on the bench is hard to come by.

If you want to have a judicial branch of government that is committed to the rule of law and separation of powers between the branches of government, now is the time to start doing your research and having discussions about judge candidates.

Voters are the ones with the power to determine whether we have political activists serving as judges or whether we have judges who will keep political ideologies out of their decisions.

Inform yourself and choose wisely.

Senator Barry Usher is Republican who represents parts of Yellowstone, Musselshell, Treasure, Rosebud, and Custer counties.

Community Pond Program grant money available News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

HELENA — Groups or individuals interested in constructing or improving a community fishing pond have until Feb. 1 to apply for a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Community Pond Program grant. The objective of the Community Pond Program is to enhance public fishing opportunities in or near Montana communities by providing funding that

Valley Journal

may be used to construct or improve a public fishing pond.

A total of $200,000 in grant funds is available for projects on ponds that offer public fishing opportunities.

Past projects include building habitat structures, dock installations, pond dredging, ADA-accessible angling amenities and the purchase of aerators.

Applicants must provide at least 30 percent of the total project cost, which

can include contributions such as heavy equipment time, construction materials, labor, engineering services and more. Anyone wishing to sponsor a project may apply.

Since 2003, the Community Pond Program has funded projects that benefit young anglers and their families by providing locations where individuals of all ages can learn angling skills. Additional information on the Community Pond

Program, including a grant application form can be found at: https://fwp.mt.gov/ aboutfwp/grant-programs/ community-pond.

Applications, which are accepted each year, must be received on or before Feb. 1. Applicants are required to contact their local FWP fisheries biologist to obtain project support. For more information, contact Michelle McGree, FWP Program Officer, at 406-444-2432 or email: mmcgree@mt.gov.

Valley Journal

January 24, 2024 - 13

schools Polson Middle School launches after-school cooking club Club is in collaboration with Families First and MSU SNAP Education Program

News from Spokane Falls Community College

News from Brittany Simonich, Family Education Coordinator in Lake County

POLSON — Polson Middle School has partnered with Families First and the Montana State University (MSU) SNAP Education Program to launch a new after-school cooking club called “Choose Health: Food, Fun, and Fitness.”

The initiative aims to give students unique opportunities to learn culinary skills and promote healthy eating habits. The program is supported by grant funds from the Mission Valley Youth Foundation.

The after-school cooking club will meet once a week for six weeks in the Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) kitchen. This well-equipped kitchen ensures that students have access to a professional cooking environment, enhancing their learning experience.

The program’s family-centered approach is emphasized by Brittany Simonich, Families First Education Coordinator.

She believes involving 14 - January 24, 2024

Locals named to Spokane Community College honor roll

COURTESY PHOTO

Polson Middle School students meet once a week to learn culinary skills and promote healthy eating habits.

families in this journey is crucial for impacting the community’s approach to nutrition and wellness.

The program aims to empower the students and the entire family unit.

Havilah Burton, SNAP-Ed Educator, highlights the significance of practical nutrition education in collaboration with Polson Middle School. She believes that the program’s hands-on approach will bring essential nutrition knowledge to students in an engaging way, contributing to a healthier future for the community.

Students participating

in the club will receive a collaborative cookbook featuring recipes created during the program. They will also have a special apron to wear during the cooking sessions, promoting a sense of camaraderie and culinary identity.

To encourage physical activity and a holistic approach to health, students will receive a pedometer to track their daily step goals.

Alongside this, “Choose Health: Food, Fun, and Fitness” is a nutrition, cooking, and exercise class where kids can learn to make healthy choices. Each class consists of a lesson about nu-

tritious food and exercise behaviors, active games, and wholesome food preparation and tasting.

The cooking club focuses on preparing different foods and discovering why and how to make healthy choices. Each week, students get to play games or participate in fun activities, creating an engaging and dynamic learning environment.

The SNAP-Ed nutrition education cooking club helps kids make healthy food and activity choices while they learn to cook and engage in different activities. This multifaceted approach ensures that students gain culinary

Valley Journal

skills and a comprehensive understanding of the importance of nutrition and physical activity in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Polson Middle School, Families First, the MSU SNAP Education Program, and the Mission Valley Youth Foundation stand united in their commitment to providing a holistic and enriching educational experience for the students of Polson. The after-school cooking club represents a culinary adventure and a community-building initiative emphasizing the importance of healthy living.

SPOKANE — Local students named to Spokane Falls Community College honor roll for Fall quarter 2023 are: Xavier Fisher of Ronan and Alexander Muzquiz of Polson. The school lists 1,500 students on its Fall quarter honor roll, which ended in December. Students must have a grade point average of 3.0 or above to be listed on the honor roll.

SFCC is one of two community colleges within the Community Colleges of Spokane district and serves over 5,000 students. It is renowned for its theater, music, and fine arts as well as exceptional STEM programs.

About 60 percent of its graduates transfer to four-year colleges and universities. Other students pursue career or technical degrees or certificates. SFCC has campuses in west Spokane, Fairchild Air Force Base and Pullman.

Middle schoolers to compete in cardboard boat challenge Polson Middle Schoolers end busy semester of enriched academic activities.

News from Polson Middle School

POLSON — Polson Middle School’s 492 students are sailing into the second semester-literally. Mission Valley Aquatic Center will be hosting the second ever PMS Duck Boat Dynasty Challenge. This fun team-building activity offers students the opportunity to showcase their creativity, engineering and teamwork skills.

PMS students spent recent time in their advisory classes building boats out of nothing but cardboard, duct tape, Elmer’s glue and a whole lot of

ingenuity. This end-ofa high note. Student addisplay in melodious, Car Race. Mrs. Roger’s support is offered every the-semester celebratory visory teams spent time harmonious and ultiand Mrs. Tucker’s ReadMonday, Tuesday and activity will take place competing in a double mately exceptional conIns are always a hit. StuThursday in Mrs. ComJan. 24 and 25 at MVAC. elimination competition certs. The girls basketball dents meet in the middle stock’s and Ms. Bauer’s Students will race their bracket. Despite tough, season starts with the school library, also on ev- rooms. Students from all creations grade levels within can sign up Duck Boat Dynasty Challenge is a fun team-building activity grade-levto meet after els for the school and in which middle school students showcase creativity, ultimate dive into engineering and teamwork skills. prize – a completing pizza party work from for their all curricular class. Students will then determined competifirst practice Monday, ery third Thursday of the areas. have the opportunity to tion, Ms. Gurgiolo’s Jan. 22. Little Guy Wres- month, and enjoy snacks A highlight of the sespend some time splashadvisory dominated the tling starts in February. while they dive into mester for students and ing in the pool with their fun-inspired games, Students have enjoyed their favorite books for staff was the memorable friends. Thanks to the triumphantly finishing many other extra-cursome sustained reading. opportunity to watch the MVAC for hosting and undefeated. ricular activities during It is the quietest, best documentary Native Ball, to many local businesses Fall activities wrapped the first semester. The time possible. Also, Lake hosted by the Showboat that donated dozens of up with successful volLego Club, created by County for Families First Cinema in Polson, and duct tape rolls and mass leyball, cross country and Mrs. Burgess has been Learning Lab is hosting meet trailblazer Malia quantities of cardboard boys basketball seasons. a school favorite. Stua hands-on cooking class Kipp in person during for the endeavor.

Student-athlete particidents meet every third with games and fitness small-group question and Another favorite event pation topped out at 129. Thursday of the month fun in the FACS room answer sessions. was the student-led, Winter activities kicked to engage in engineerevery Tuesday starting The second semester all-school Beach Ball off with stellar Academic ing-inspired activities.

Jan. 9 through Feb. 13. of classes begins Monday, Volleyball tournament Bowl team outings. Band Some of the recent chalAfter school academic Jan. 29. held Dec. 20-21 to send and Choir students put lenges include the Drop us into winter break on their talents on brilliant Challenge and the Lego

Democratic legislators want to hear from you News from the Lake County Democrats

RONAN — Come meet with Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers and Senate Minority Whip, Susan Webber at the Lake County stop of the Legislative Listening Tour scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 25, at 6 p.m. This public event will take place at the Mission Valley Senior Center in Ronan and all are welcome. Please come share your thoughts on the direction of the state, including property taxes and your ideas for the future of Montana.

Contact Mary Caferro at 406-461-2384 for more information

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January 24, 2024 - 15

sports

Mission basketball teams win two at home ST. IGNATIUS — Crowds filled the St. Ignatius High School gym to watch the varsity boys and girls basketball teams battle it out against Superior on Friday, Jan. 19.

The night started out with the boys on the court who were fighting to get their first win of the season during a game that was consistently within two to three points.

In the last five minutes of the game, the boys tied it up and the teams continued to compete for the win. Superior scored a point making things look bleak for the Bulldogs, but the Dogs caught up in the last minute and the tie continued.

Jose O’Brian, for the Bulldogs, intercepted the ball and scored a threepoint shot for the win, 42 to 39, with five seconds on the clock.

Bulldog head coach Stuart Grant said, “We have played some very good competition this season, and with us being halfway through our season, we have started figuring out who we are as a team, and we got our first win with a great buzzer beater.”

The girls took to the court against Superior 16 - January 24, 2024

“We got our first win with a great buzzer beater.”

- ST. IGNATIUS BULLDOGS BOYS BASKETBALL COACH STUART GRANT

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and held the lead early in the game with a 37 to 18 score by halftime.

The girls ended the game with 57 to 29 giving

them another win for the season.

Lady Bulldog head coach Dalton Delaney said: “We’ve had a good

season so far. We are getting a lot of experience and getting better with every game with only two losses.”

Valley Journal

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sports shorts Polson Wrestling BUTTE – Polson wrestler Kyrin Doty led his team by besting Levi Love (Laurel) in the 205 weight category during a Jan. 19 contest.

Jan. 19 Polson vs. Laurel, Montana Class A duals results Laurel (LAUR) 69.0 Polson (POLS) 6.0 113: Mitchell Clavadetcher (LAUR) over Corben Carlson (POLS) (Dec 7-4) 120: Walter Given (LAUR) over Jayce Hill (POLS) (Fall 1:39) 126: Matthew Mogan (LAUR) over (POLS) (For.) 132: Spencer Tillman (LAUR) over (POLS) (For.) 138: Nathaniel Hill (LAUR) over Ryatt Maley (POLS) (Fall 0:26) 145: Holden Hoiness (LAUR) over Daniel O`Roake (POLS) (Fall 2:57) 152: Logan Knaub (LAUR) over Cameron Chee (POLS) (Fall 0:35) 160: Owen Younger (LAUR) over Chance Edwards (POLS) (Fall 0:18) 170: Caleb Cook (LAUR) over Mac Campbell (POLS) (Fall 0:55) 182: Kyrin Doty (POLS) over Levi Love (LAUR) (Fall 1:59) 205: Kingston Oe (LAUR) over (POLS) (For.) 285: Tye Brown (LAUR) over Brody Bulette (POLS) (Fall 1:06) 103: Emerson Nose (LAUR) over Logan Clairmont (POLS) (Fall 2:36) Jan. 16 Polson @ Ronan wrestling results Ronan (RONA) 42.0 Polson (POLS) 30.0 100: River Cote (RONA) over Ciri Nice (POLS) (Fall

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Ronan Maiden Zailee Hewankorn shoots a jumper during a Jan. 16 game against Polson. In a close contest, the Lady Pirates beat Ronan 45-41.

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Polson Pirate basketball player Maddox Bird goes in for a layup during a Jan. 16 game against the Ronan Chiefs. The Chiefs came away with the win 73-54.

1:00) 107: Araeya Nelson (POLS) over (RONA) (For.) 114: Amanda Webster (RONA) over Sara Cross (POLS) (Fall 0:24) 120: Ariella Mihara (POLS) over Giselle Barron-Valenzuela (RONA) (Fall 1:48) 126: Katie Dolence (RONA) over Jaycee Wallin (POLS) (Fall 1:19) 132: Juliette

Cheff (RONA) over Olivia Valentine (POLS) (Fall 1:34) 138: Brynn Courville (RONA) over Innocent Arnold (POLS) (Fall 1:31) 145: Harli Kinney (POLS) over Lola Schock (RONA) (Fall 1:12) 152: Leona Dodson Howe (RONA) over Venessa Wheeler (POLS) (Fall 5:20) 165: Abighail Sorrell

(POLS) over (RONA) (For.) 185: Jaliyah Pierre (POLS) over (RONA) (For.) 235: Tirza TwoTeeth (RONA) over (POLS) (For.) Ronan (RONA) 70.0 Polson (POLS) 6.0 103: Ian Dillard (RONA) over Logan Clairmont

Valley Journal

(POLS) (Fall 1:56) 113: Luc Cheff (RONA) over Corben Carlson (POLS) (Fall 1:41) 120: Ridge Cote (RONA) over (POLS) (For.) 126: August Courville (RONA) over (POLS) (For.) 132: Max Ramesar (POLS) over Skyler Sias (RONA) (Fall 6:00) 138: Jairyn Krause (RONA) over Ryatt Maley (POLS) (TF 18-3 5:02) 145: WilJames Courville (RONA) over Daniel O`Roake (POLS) (TF 17-2 3:58) 152: Dominque McKay (RONA) over Peter Dupuis (POLS) (Fall 1:39) 160: Nate Young (RONA) over Mason Becker (POLS) (Fall 1:16) 170: Landon Bishop (RONA) over (POLS) (For.) 182:

Tristan Fisher (RONA) over Kyrin Doty (POLS) (Fall 0:58) 205: Cole Dalke (RONA) over (POLS) (For.) 285: Jackson Davis (RONA) over Brody Bulette (POLS) (Fall 3:37)

Polson Girls Basketball RONAN — Polson’s Lady Pirates prevailed over the Ronan Maidens 45-41 on the hardwood during a Jan. 16 game hosted by Ronan. Tied 20-20 at the half, the game stayed close see page 18

January 24, 2024 - 17

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Polson’s Ezra Fasthorse shoots a jumper in a game against Ronan.

Ronan Maiden wrestler Leona Dodson Howe, 152, pins Polson’s Vanessa Wheeler.

sports shorts

Serving Lake County since 1923

from page 17

in the third quarter with Polson scoring another 10 points and Ronan sinking 9. The Lady Pirates pulled away in the fourth quarter with 15 points to Ronan’s 12 to seal the win.

Julia Barnard, Rylee Taylor-Jefferson and Aleysia Black led the way for the Lady Pirates scoring 12 points apiece. Maddy Illig was the top scorer for the Maidens with 10 points followed by Ally Luedtke with 6. Lauryn Buhr, Zailee Hewankorn and Kailyn Marengo pitched in five points each.

The Lady Pirates fell to the Columbia Falls Lady Wildcats 36-64 on the road Jan. 20. Samantha Rensvold was the top scor18 - January 24, 2024

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

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Polson wrestler Max Ramesar, 126, pins a Ronan wrestler during a Jan. 16 contest hosted in Ronan.

er contributing 12 points while Rylee Taylor-Jefferson, Aleysia Black and Natalie Adams each pitched in 5. The Lady Wildcats came out strong in the first quarter - taking the lead and never looking back.

Next up the Lady Pirates host Browning at home on

Thursday, Jan. 25.

The Valley Journal welcomes sports submissions including scorecards, photos, etc. from parents, coaches, athletes and community members for inclusion in the weekly sports shorts section.

vj

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Governor Gianforte launches property tax task force Governor charges task force with providing recommendations to reform the property tax system and reduce burden on property taxpayers News from the office of Governor Gianforte

HELENA — Governor Greg Gianforte today launched a property tax task force to provide recommendations to reform the property tax system and reduce the burden on property taxpayers.

“Property taxes are too high. Our $1,350 property tax rebate helped Montana homeowners last year and will help them again this year,” Gov. Gianforte said. “We, however, need thoughtful, deliberate, long-term reforms to keep property taxes as low as possible, because the increasing strain of rising property taxes shouldn’t force Montana homeowners to consider selling the home they’ve owned and lived in for decades.”

“We must protect Montana homeowners from rising property taxes, and I look forward to the work of the Property Tax Task Force to reform our property tax system and arrest the rate of growth of property taxes,” Gov. Gianforte said.

The governor created the task force through an executive order, and charged the task force with providing recommendations the legislature could consider and the governor could sign into law to reform the property tax system and restrain property tax growth.

Gov. Gianforte appointed Ryan Osmundson, director of the Office of Budget and Program Planning, to chair the task force.

“Montanans are rightly concerned with property taxes, which are growing well above the rate of inflation and are increasingly unaffordable for so many homeowners,” Dir. Osmundson said. “We’ll put our nose to the grindstone and leave no stone unturned to identify meaningful reforms to our property tax system.”

State agency leaders, legislators, local officials, association representatives, economists, researchers, and stakeholders make up the task force. Members include locals: Sen. Greg Hertz (R-Polson), chair of Senate Taxation Committee, member of Joint Education Committee; And Cyndi Johnson, president of the Montana Farm Bureau Federation.

“I’m grateful to each member of the property tax task force for volunteering to dig deep and deliver solutions to

“

reform our property tax system. They’ll each bring a unique perspective to the table, and I look for-

increase transparency of and public engagement in public budgeting; increase public participa-

Montanans are rightly concerned with property taxes, which are growing well above the rate of inflation and are increasingly unaffordable for so many homeowners.”

-Ryan Osmundson Director of the Office of Budget and Program Planning

ward to what they’ll accomplish together,” Gov. Gianforte said.

The task force will hold its first meeting in February and will produce a written report with recommendations and strategies by Aug. 15, 2024.

While the task force may recommend any strategy to reform of the property tax system, the governor expressly asked the task force to provide recommendations that arrest the rate of growth of property taxes, including assessments and fees, as well as alleviate the impact of drastic increases of property reappraisals; increase transparency of property tax bills, make them easier to understand for property taxpayers, and improve customer service in the payment schedules for property taxpayers;

tion for mill levy ballot measures; ensure property taxes paid by Montana resident homeowners and on Montana long-term rentals reflect well on supporting homeownership and workforce housing; ensure each Montana child has access to a quality education; and ensure lower-income Montana homeowners, Montana homeowners who are on a fixed income, and disabled Montana veterans or their surviving spouse are not at risk of losing their home because of property taxes.

Property taxes, which are largely a function of local jurisdictions, fund local government services, with approximately 85% of property tax revenue from residential homeowners going directly to local jurisdictions and the remaining

Valley Journal

15% going to the State of Montana which returns the amount in full to help fund K-12 public schools throughout the State.

According to the nonpartisan Legislative Fiscal Division, between 2001 and 2022, inflation grew at an average annual rate of 2.42%, while between tax years 2001 and 2022, the annual average county property tax growth rate was 6.19%, city property tax growth rate was 6.13%, local schools property tax growth rate was 4.40%, countywide schools property tax was 3.60%, according to Legislative Fiscal Division.

To reduce the burden of property taxes for Montanans, last spring, the governor delivered Montanans $120 million

in permanent, long-term property tax relief and secured up to $1,350 in property tax rebates for Montana homeowners over 2023 and 2024.

Taken together, the measures provide the average Montana homeowner with relief that more than offsets his or her property tax increase.

The governor also boosted property tax relief for Montanans with low or fixed incomes, as well as disabled veterans or their unmarried surviving spouses. To further reduce the burden of property taxes, the governor reformed the property tax system to allow homeowners to pay their property taxes in seven equal payments throughout the year, rather than in November and May.

Family-run Newspaper For Sale in beautiful northwest Montana $1.25

your homegrown newspaper October 11, 2023

Vol. 20, No. 4

Pumpkins fall from sky at St. Ignatius airport

Unique fundraiser collects money for annual fireworks show Town council pg. 5

Transit app pg. 6

Sports pg. 16

Story and photos

by Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — The community came together on Saturday, Oct. 7, to watch pumpkins drop out of an airplane at the St. Ignatius Airport.

The event was held as a fundraiser for next year’s Good Old Days fireworks show.

Blackfoot Communication and the Brett Thoft Memorial Foundation sponsored the event along with several others.

The Brett Thoft Memorial Foundation was giving out coats for any child who needed one.

There were also plenty of things for the kids to do at the event, including face painting.

Apple bobbing drew in participants as folks dunked their heads into a barrel of water and at-

tempted to bite into an apple, no hands allowed.

Another line was filled with people waiting for

the free barbeque with burgers and hot dogs.

To win at the pumpkin drop, participants needed

to buy a ticket.

Pumpkins were then dropped out of the airplane and landed on a square with numbers. If a person’s ticket matched the number the pumpkin landed on, they won $250.

Pilot Mike Kuefler said, “There was a lot of planning that went into dropping the pumpkins.

You have to be at the

right height and stay at a consistent speed (while flying) or the pumpkin will miss, and then, we have to make another pass.”

During drop four, the airplane made a couple passes before finally getting the pumpkin on target.

To drop a pumpkin, it takes three people: the

see page 2

w w w. v a l l e y j our na l. ne t

H NICOLE TAVENNER PHOTO

• Award-winning weekly newspaper • Well established advertising, subscriber base, website & social media following • 19 years in business • Beautiful place to work & live • QR code links to full listing details w w w. va l l ey j o u r n a l . n e t January 24, 2024 - 19

obituaries Albert Knutson POLSON – Albert James Knutson, age 91, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, at St. Luke Extended Care in Ronan. Memorial services for Albert will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

Kenneth Feiler POLSON — Kenneth Alan Feiler, age 69, passed away on Jan.14, 2024, at his residence.

He was born in Pittsburgh, PennKenneth Feiler sylvania, on Feb. 4, 1954, to mother and father, Erwin and Madelyn (Koch) Feiler.

Ken graduated from Peter’s Township High School, McMurray, Pennsylvania, in 1972.

He excelled in men’s gymnastics throughout high school. After high school, he crewed a sailboat to and resided in the Virgin Islands, which began his unquenchable thirst for adventure. A bibliophile at heart Ken read about every book he picked 20 - January 24, 2024

up.

Wild at heart and always searching for adventures, Ken would jump freight trains and hobo across the states and parts of Canada throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, which brought him to Montana where he met the mother of his six children, Lauria Beneventi.

Ken found the Lord in the late 1970s and with the arrival of his children he had to live a bit less wild and settled in the Flathead Valley in the early 80s.

Due to his love of the outdoors, Ken pursued a career in forestry and remained self-employed chopping down trees all over the Flathead Valley all the way up to just months before his passing.

Ken had a love for sailing and spent many days out on Flathead Lake with anyone who would join him. Ken could never be found more than a couple feet from one of his guitars.

He would start conversations with everyone about everything and was always picking up hitchhikers, hobos, fruit bums, vagrants, hippies, cowboys, rednecks and whomever else he would cross paths with.

The love Ken had for people is rare to find.

He spent the last of his years with his loving partner and friend,

Lita Fonda, laughing and dancing through memories made during travels, music festivals and concerts.

A lover of animals of all kinds, the neighborhood critters will be missing out on Ken feeding them all treats and petting them.

Ken is preceded in death by his mother, father, his uncle, and his grandson.

Ken is survived by his love, Lita; his sister, Barb (Ed) Hardinger; his six children, Jake (Christina) Feiler, Hannah (Tyson) Derber, Abigail Feiler, Levi Feiler, Caleb Feiler and Anneliese Feiler; 12 grandchildren and countless friends that he considered family.

He was a father, a son, a grandpa, a brother, a husband, and a friend. He will be missed by everyone who knew him and all that crossed paths with him.

Legend tells it that on certain nights sitting around the fire if you listen closely, you can hear him playing his guitar.

Memorial services for Ken will be held at a later date. 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.

Flathead Transit

Missoula • Pablo • Kalispell • Whitefish

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Bus leaves at scheduled times.

Pablo

10:00 AM

52001 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-275-2792

Missoula

11:30 AM

1660 W Broadway St • 406-549-2339

Evaro

11:50 AM

20750 US Hwy 93, Missoula• 406-726-3778

Arlee

12:00 PM

92345 US Hwy 93, Arlee• 406-726-7777

Flag Stop

27330 US Hwy 93, Ravalli• 406-275-2877

12:15 PM

240 Mnt View Dr, St. Ignatius• 406-745-3634

1:00 PM

52001 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-275-2792

Ravalli

Saint Ignatius Pablo

Polson

1:25 PM

49708 US Hwy 93, Polson• 406-883-3636

Lakeside

2:10 PM

7170 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-844-3372

NEW

2:30 PM LOCATION! 3:10 PM

Kalispell / Evergreen

195 3rd Ave. E, west side of Smith Foods• 406-755-7447

Whitefish

#9 Spokane Ave., Whitefish• 406-275-2721

7:30 PM 7:05 PM 6:50 PM Flag Stop 6:30 PM 6:00 PM 5:30 PM 4:55 PM 4:30 PM 4:00 PM

For Information Call Flathead Transit • 406-675-5000 weekends • Busses run 7Transit days a week.

406-275-2792 weekdays For more information call Flathead

Valley Journal

Weekdays: 406-275-2792 Weekends: 406-675-5000

Week of 1/22/24 - 1/28/24

PUZZLES SUDOKU

The Weekly Crossword

by Margie E. Burke

Edited by Margie E. Burke

Difficulty: Easy

1 5 6 2

3

HOW TO SOLVE:

1 3 7 8 8 9 7 3 6 4 2 8 4 2 9 5 1 4 5 4 3 2

Each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9; each column must contain the numbers 1 to 9; and each set of 3 by 3 boxes must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

(Answer appears elsewhere in this issue)

Copyright 2024 by The Puzzle Syndicate

Copyright 2024 by The Puzzle Syndicate

Word Search Find hidden words about the Atmosphere.

Solution to Sudoku:

7 8 1 4 9 6 5 3 2 3 5 6 2 8 7 4 9 1 9 4 2 5 1 3 7 8 6 2 1 5 7 4 8 3 6 9 8 7 3 6 5 9 1 2 4 6 9 4 1 3 2 8 5 7 4 2 8 9 7 5 6 1 3 1 3 9 8 6 4 2 7 5 5 6 7 3 2 1 9 4 8

Answers to puzzles on page 25.

QUICKSILVER EXPRESSO TAKE A BREAK!

7 days a week

Monday- Friday 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

675-5000

51999 US 93 • PABLO (near the walking bridge in Pablo) Valley Journal

Come in for: • Soup & Sandwiches • Coffee Bar • Free Wi-Fi • Ice Cream • Car Wash & Vacuum • Laundromat • ATM • Flathead Transit/ Jefferson Line connect

Full Service Espresso Bar

GfEsnacks HiU n s!! o o

ge ct sele bevera &

January 24, 2024 - 21

seniors St. Ignatius

By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — Thank you to all that braved the cold and snow to play Bingo. We had fun, stayed warm, had snacks, celebrated a birthday and enjoyed the company. Due to the number of players we were able to pay out $100 for the blackout this time.

There will be an increase in the cost of the meals by $1 in February due to the increased cost of food.

If you would like a takeout meal, call 406745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays and by 2 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the center.

Menu: — Friday, Jan. 26: noon - chili with fry bread, mixed fruit, carrot cake — Jan. 30: noon chicken casserole, biscuits, broccoli/ cauliflower, dessert We are still looking for a part-time bookkeeper/ manager.

We have walkers, canes, crutches, commodes and a bath bench to loan out.

— The Foot Hills Club meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m. for snacks and cards.

— Gently Yoga is held on Wednesdays at 1-2:15 p.m. If you are interested, call Bonnie Kiser at 406253-0177. Her rates are five sessions for $60.

Our St. Ignatius Senior 22 - January 24, 2024

Center is open to people renting it. If you are interested, call 406-745-4462 and leave a message.

Ronan

By Donna Daniels for the Valley Journal

RONAN — Mission Valley Senior Center is located across from St. Luke’s Hospital.

We are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for lunch and other activities.

Our menu: — Jan. 24: soup, sandwiches, salad, dessert — Jan. 26: birthday dinner – roast beef, potatoes, salad, dessert — Jan. 29: hot beef sandwiches, salad, dessert AARP tax people will be here every Wednesday through April 10 starting on Feb. 7. They will prepare taxes for any age and any income. Give us a call to sign up for this great service at 406-676-2371.

Dues are due for 2024.

They are $10 per person.

The Mission Valley Senior Center is available for renting for your events.

Call us if you are having an event and need a location to have it.

Pinochle is played every Monday from 3:30-6 p.m. at the center. Everyone is welcome.

We also have a pool table available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Come join the fun!

Everyone is welcome for our meals no matter what age you are. We ask for a $7 donation for our Monday, Wednesday, and Friday meals and $10 for our Sunday meal.

If you would like a meal delivered to your business just call us by 10 a.m.

Polson

ities: Bowling: Tuesdays 1 p.m. lane fee $13 - open group — Bridge: inquire at center VA rep.: first Friday and third Tuesday of each month (Feb. 2 & 20) walk-in — Bingo: bingo Friday nights 6:30 p.m. start; doors open at 6 p.m. $100 blackout - “Playing Card” bingo first and third Wednesday of each month — Exercise: sitting or standing: M-W-F, 10:30– 11:30 a.m. - video-assisted guidance - bring a friend — Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

— Tai Chi: (slow and relaxing movement exercises for balance and flexibility)

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — A special thanks to Super One Foods of Polson for allowing use of their freezer to store food from one of our disabled commercial kitchen freezers. Their rapid and generous response allowed us to salvage our frozen food supplies. We are truly blessed to live in this community. TActiv-

Early hours. Next-day appointments. Providers who take all the time you need.

Now accepting new patients in Billings, Great Falls, and Missoula.

Call to make an appointment today!

(406) 319-3169

Donate Your Car

Imagine the Difference You Can Make Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and the proceeds help provide services to help the blind and visually impaired.

FREE TOWING & TAX DEDUCTIBLE

When you donate your car, you’ll receive: ✔ a $200 restaurant voucher

Classes Jan. 23- Feb. 27 - six weeks on Tuesdays - 10-11 a.m. - fee $30 for non-members - $15 discount for members Register for class at the center.

— Pinochle: Thursdays noon-3 p.m. - late arrivals can join in A new card/board gaming space is available. Gather your friends to meet on a scheduled basis. Sign up with a suggested day and time.

Menu (subject to change): A suggested donation of $5 helps support the Nutrition Program. We serve lunch from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - sit-down or takeout; call before 10 a.m. for delivery - call in for grab-

&

✔ a 2-night, 3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations

Call 1-855-901-2620 Help Prevent Blindness

Get A Vision Screening Annually

Valley Journal

Primary Care for Seniors

n-go — Thursday, Jan. 2: Polish dogs, macaroni ‘n cheese, coleslaw — Friday, Jan. 26: a fabulous birthday dinner for lunch honoring those born in January and featuring a traditional roast beef meal with all the fixings and birthday cake too. Invite a friend or relative to join us.

— Monday, Jan. 29: split pea soup, PBJ sandwich, peaches, chocolate pudding — Tuesday, Jan. 30: chicken Cordon Blue casserole; mixed veggies, applesauce, carrot-raisin salad, cookies — Wednesday, Jan. 31: beef Stroganoff, pasta, carrots, pears, stewed tomatoes, 4-layer bars

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

Full time positions receive the health insurance benefit 12 months a year. Check out the available jobs and detailed job vacancy announcements on the SKC website – www.skc.edu/employment Custodian Part-time Salary Range: $14.80/hr Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Security Officer Part Time Salary Range: $12.57 - $13.84/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Part Time Seasonal Grounds Maintenance Salary Range: $15.44 per hour Closing Date: Open Until Filled

College & Career Readiness Coach (2 postions open) Salary range: $17.35/hr-$20.17/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

TGA Instructor Salary Range $43,823 - $45,025 DOEE Closing Date: Monday, January 22, 2023 at 4:00pm MST

College & Career Readiness Mentor (3 positions open) Salary Range: $17.35/hr-$20.17/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Health Promotion Practices Department Chair 11-month term (July off) which includes $2500 Dept. Head stipend Salary Range DOEE: $45,778 - $48,716 Closing Date: Open Until Filled

NYCP College & Career Readiness Instructor (Part time, 9 months) Salary Range: $25.01/hr-$29.63/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Custodial Services Supervisor Salary Range: $18.28 – $18.72 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center-Assistant Teacher (9.5 months) Salary Range: $15.01/hr-$16.92/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Lab Instructor - Nursing Department (10 months) Salary Range: $53,340 - $56,836 DOEE Closing Date: Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2024; 4:00 pm MST

Early Learning Center-Toddler Teacher (9.5 months) Salary range: $15.33/hr-$17.24/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Accounting Tech/Receptionist Salary Range: $14.16 - $14.48 per hour DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Indigenous Research Center (IRC) IRM & M Library & Repository Manager Salary Range: $50,176-$53,696 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Executive Assistant to the President Salary Range: $41,963 - $46,655 DOEE Closing Date: extended to Monday, Jan. 8, 2024; 4:30pm MST

Nursing Simulation Lab Instructor Salary Range: $54,301-$56,400 DOEE Closing date: Open Until Filled

Nursing Faculty (2 openings) (10 months) Salary Range: $55,935-$65,551 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Assistant to the Vice President of Enrollment Management for Graduate Studies Salary Range: $44,310-$49,003 DOEE Closing date: Monday, Dec. 18, 2023; 4:00pm MST

To apply you must submit an SKC application, resume and applicable transcripts to Human Resources, P.O. Box 70, Pablo, MT 59855.

Toll free 877.752.6553, ext. 4985 Direct Dial 406.275.4985/4977 Valley Journal

January 24, 2024 - 23

calendar Thursday, Jan. 25 Mission Valley Choral Society invites new members

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

Fun with a purpose

Valley Live brings Pollo Loco to the Polson High School auditorium.

Saddle your pony and take a crazy ride into the past with Pollo Loco (Crazy Chickens) Western Music with a Twist.

Since 1989, their impeccable three-part harmonies have been rattling the rafters. They’ll take you back to the days of Gene and Roy, bringing warmth to the classic western songs they sing. $13 advance tickets are available at missionvalleylive.com and at the following Ticket Outlets: In Polson at First Interstate Bank; In Ronan at Ronan True Value. $15 tickets available at the door; youth 18 & under free.

POLSON — Folks who enjoy singing are invited to join the Mission Valley Choral Society, auditions are not required, when practices begin Thursday, Jan. 25, at the Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall in Polson.

The 35+ voice community choir, directed by Cathy Gillhouse, practices on Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. for two spring concerts scheduled for April 20-21. Director Gillhouse has selected a 10-piece program that includes classical, contemporary, sacred, spiritual, gospel, barbershop and American folk songs. The choir, which has existed in the county since the 1960s, brings a diverse group together from all corners of the county. For information, call 406261-3304 or 406-3702076; or check out the MVCS web site: missionvalleychoralsociety.org or their Facebook page.

Democratic legislators want to hear from you RONAN — Come meet with Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers and Senate Minority Whip, Susan Webber at the Lake County stop of the Legislative Listening Tour scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 25, at 6 p.m.

This public event will take place at the Mission Valley Senior Center in Ronan and all are welcome. Please come share your thoughts on 24 - January 24, 2024

Saturday, Jan. 27 Library closes prior to reopening

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Kevin Page, 5, is the picture of concentration as he shovels snow from the sidewalk in front of Cherry Valley Elementary School on Jan. 19. Also volunteering to shovel the sidewalk, Kevin’s mom said her son, a pre-k student at Cherry Valley, “loves to shovel.”

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will be closed from Saturday, Jan. 27-Tuesday, Feb. 13.

At this time no services will be offered. The new outside materials return will be available.

Wednesday, Jan. 31 Mission Fire Dept. to meet

the direction of the state, including property taxes and your ideas for the future of Montana. Contact Mary Caferro at 406-461-2384 for more information.

Final ‘Story Time’ at temporary location

POLSON — Join us at 10 a.m. at our temporary location: First United Methodist Church 301 16th Ave. East. Story Time is geared toward kindergarten readiness, ages 3-5, but everyone is welcome. We read

books, make crafts, and play games. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to join in this interactive program. We only have one more Story Time session at our temporary location: January 25. Then the library will be closed while we move. We will

Valley Journal

see you again at the renovated library on Feb. 15.

Friday, Jan. 26 Pollo Loco to perform POLSON — On Friday, Jan. 26, Mission

ST. IGNATIUS — The St. Ignatius Rural Fire District will hold their regular board meeting at the Fire Hall meeting room on Wednesday, Jan. 31, at 6 p.m. see page 25

Calendar from page 24

St. Ignatius Rural Fire District holds monthly board meeting ST. IGNATIUS — The regular board meeting for the St. Ignatius Rural Fire District is Wednesday, Jan. 31 at 6 p.m. in the fire hall’s meeting room.

Friday, Feb. 2 Early Childhood Services Baby Fair planned PABLO — The Joe McDonald Gym at SKC will be the site of the CSKT Early Childhood Services Baby Fair set for Friday, Feb. 2, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 6 Get inspired by movie about volunteer fire service POLSON — The City of Polson and Polson City Volunteer Fire Department are sponsoring

a free movie about the volunteer fire service – Feb. 6, at Showboat Theatre; showings at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Each admittance ticket is worth one free drink or popcorn (small). “Odd Hours. No Pay. Cool Hat” depicts volunteers taking on a variety of traditional and non-traditional fire service roles in communities across America.

It is hoped that this film will increase understanding of the importance of volunteer fire departments and inspire local citizens to volunteer with the Polson City Volunteer Fire Department.

Thursday, Feb. 8 Receive help with SNAP applications at Arlee CDC ARLEE — Katie Wilkins, benefit coordinator from the Montana Food Bank Network, will be at the Arlee Community Development Corporation on Thursday, Feb. 8, from 5 to 7 p.m. and on Friday, Feb. 9, from 1 to 3 p.m. Katie will be helping with applications for

SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and answering questions about SNAP and other benefits.

To make an appointment to talk to Katie, call 406-726-5550 or email: foodpantry@arleecdc.org, or you can just stop by the Arlee CDC at the times above.

Friday, Feb. 9 Receive help with SNAP applications at Arlee CDC ARLEE — Katie Wilkins, benefit coordinator from the Montana Food Bank Network, will be at the Arlee Community Development Corporation on Friday, Feb. 9, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Katie will be helping with applications for SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and answering questions about SNAP and other benefits.

To make an appointment to talk to Katie, call 406-726-5550 or email: foodpantry@arleecdc.org, or you can just stop by the Arlee CDC at the times above.

Take a sneak peek in library during Mother Goose POLSON — Mondays mean Mother Goose! Join us at 9:15 a.m. Mother Goose is geared toward ages 0 to 3, but all are welcome. We encourage parents and caregivers to participate with their children for this early learning time. We will see you again Feb. 12 at 9:15 a.m. for a special “Sneak Peek” for Mother Goose & Story Time participants at the renovated library. You must be accompanied by a child age 0-5 to join us.

Tuesday, Feb. 13 Guided tours of renovated library offered POLSON — Beginning at 1 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. the North Lake County Public Library will offer guided tours of the full renovated library.

Groups will form every 15 minutes at the front entrance.

Puzzle Answers

vj

public meetings

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

St. Ignatius City Council meets the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 12 First Ave. 406- 745-3791 Ronan City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m., 207 Main Street SW, Ste A. 406-676-4231 Lake County Commissioners, 106 Fourth Ave. E, room 211, (Lake County Courthouse) 406-883-7278, Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

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

Regular meetings begin at 7 p.m.

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

The Charlo School District 7J B Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled meetings on the third Thursday of every month. Meetings are held in the school library, 404 1st Ave. W, and begin at 7 p.m. The phone number is 406-644-2206.

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

The phone number is 406-726-3216.

(From page 21)

Solution to Word Search

Valley View Elementary is located at 42448 Valley View Road. The phone number is 406883-2208.

St. Ignatius School District No. 28 Board of Trustees meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the library, 76 Third Avenue. The phone number is 406-7453811.

Valley Journal

January 24, 2024 - 25

classifieds Announcements

Real Estate

Wanted

Equal housing

WANTED TO BUY: Old Car, Truck, Motorcycle, also old signs and license plates, gas station items or dealership items. Call 406-270-8630 any time.

Switch and save up to $250/ year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time offer - get $50 off on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more information, call 1-877-324-0193 Donating your vehicle? Get more! Free Towing. Tax Deductible. Plus a $200 restaurant voucher and a 2-night/3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations. Call Heritage for the Blind to donate your vehicle today - 1-855-901-2620 Connect to the best wireless home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5G and 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 855-419-7978 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 Switch to DISH and get up to a $300 gift card! Plus get the Multisport pack included for a limited time!

Hurry, call for details: 1-855-995-3572

26 - January 24, 2024

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Montana Human Rights Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, familial status, physical or mental disability, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-free at 1-800669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800927-9275.

Employment Help wanted PAID HEALTHCARE PATIENT ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT St. Ignatius The successful applicant must possess an AA degree or three years of experience in a medical field. Experience in implementing CHS/ program policies and procedures.

Demonstrated successful experience in reading, inter-

preting program guidance, contracts, and regulations and implementing those regulations at the local level. Experience with the RPMS computer system, FI computer system, fax machine, scanning is preferred, but not required.

Some college coursework in Health Services, Public Health, Business Administration, Human Resources, or other relevant field preferred.

Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/ degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted.

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 and subject to random drug testing. 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 $18.18 $20.90 per hour, plus benefits.

To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org.

The closing date will be Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. TCC SOCIAL ADVOCATE TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT - Arlee The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor’s degree in either Social Work, Health & Human Services, Community Services or related field. At least one year working in customer service.

Care Coordination Certificate within six months of hire. Must have Basic Life Support for

Healthcare providers within three months of employment.

Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/ degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted.

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 and subject to random drug testing. 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 $23.26 $26.73 per hour, plus benefits.

To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.

(MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. WATER QUALITY ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST - (CONTRACT POSITION) - NATURAL RESOURCES DEPT – POLSON, MT The Water Quality Environmental Scientist is a full-time professional level position, responsible for implementation of grant projects, budgets, work plans and reports. This position requires a professional with education and experience in the field of water quality science, including coursework and training in environmental sciences, soils, hydrology, botany, natural resources management, ecology, or other related disciplines.

The successful applicant must possess a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Physi-

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cal Science or related field, and at least one (1) year of work experience required, or Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Physical Science or related field, and at least three (3) years of work experience required. Knowledge of water quality principles and procedures; general knowledge and understanding of hydrology and water rights; excellent knowledge of the geography and water resources of the Flathead Reservation.

Possession of a valid Montana driver’s license. Must wear Tribal Government identification and safety apparel when conducting field activities.

FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE INFORMATION BELOW WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal employment application, copies of relevant academic transcripts and/or certificates, a copy of a valid Montana driver’s license, 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 $27.09 to $31.14 per hour plus benefits.

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, Feb. 1st, 2024 @ 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. Eagle Bank is committed to full-service community banking – where we believe in…Lifetime Service ~ Lifetime Friendship. We have an opportunity for you to join the Eagle Bank Team as a New Accounts / Customer Service

Representative. The role of the New Accounts / Customer Service Representative is to be welcoming, build rapport and provide outstanding service while performing account transactions and/or opening new accounts. This is a full time 40 hours per week position with competitive pay and benefits.

To apply send your resume to HR@eaglebankmt.com.

Location – Eagle Bank – 80 Heritage Lane, Polson MT Salary – Depending on experience and/or education.

In accordance with the Indian Self-Determination Act, P.L. 93-638, and the mission of Eagle Bank to serve the Flathead Reservation communities, preference will be given in hiring for suitably qualified Native Americans in the following order: 1 Enrolled members of CSKT; 2 Enrolled members of other federally recognized Native American or Alaska Native Tribes; 3 All other applicants.

RESIDENT CARE AIDE TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT Polson, 1 or more positions, part time PRN The successful applicant must be at least 18 years of age, must possess a valid driver’s license, and a high school diploma or general education (GED) preferred, as well as: Level 1: Less than 4 years’ experience of caring for elders. Prefer CPR, first aid and Dementia Care Certification training but not required, must obtain within 6 months of hire, training available by CSKT Tribal Health. Level 2: 5 or more years of experience of caring for elders OR is a Certified Nursing Assistant with no work experience. Prefer CPR, first aid and Dementia Care Certification training but not required, must obtain within 6 months of hire, training available by CSKT Tribal Health. Level 3: 10 or more years of experience of caring for elders OR is a Certified Nursing Assistant with 5 years of work experience. Prefer CPR, first aid and Dementia see page 27

public notices Help wanted cont’d from pg. 26 Care Certification training but not required, must obtain within 6 months of hire, training available by CSKT Tribal Health. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. 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 and subject to random drug testing. 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 range: Level 1 - $14.05 to $16.15, Level 2 - $14.24 to $16.37, Level 3 - $15.28 to $17.56. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org.

The closing date will be Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Legals Legals

Ann L. Moderie MODERIE LAW FIRM, PLLC P.O. Box 1180 Polson, Montana 59860 (406) 883-2332 (888) 454-5939 (Fax) ann@moderielaw.com ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CARL S. GILBERTSON, Deceased.

PROBATE NO.: DP-24-2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and 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 publication of this Notice, or be forever barred as creditors of the decedent.

A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of 20th Judicial District Court, at 106 4th Ave. East, Polson, Montana, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to the Personal Representative, c/o Moderie Law Firm, PLLC, attorney for the Personal Representative, at P.O. Box 1180, Polson, MT 59860. /s/ Marie M. Gilbertson MARIA M. GILBERTSON Personal Representative Estate of Carl S. Gilbertson, Deceased Jan. 17, 24 and 31, 2024 MNAXLP

LEGAL NOTICE

LAKE COUNTY

On Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., the Ronan City Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing at Ronan City Hall to discuss the proposed subdivision known as,

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH F. MCDONALD, Deceased.

JAKE JANNSEN MINOR SUBDIVISION Proactive Living Facility Inc. has proposed a 2-lot subdivision. The property is within Ronan City limits and is located between Ninth Avenue Southwest and Llama Lane Southwest, north of Main Street Southwest. The developer is requesting connection to municipal water, sewer. Zoning is being proposed for B residential uses. The legal description of the property is as follows. The Amended Tract A-1, Scearce’s Second Addition to Ronan, Amend. Plat of Lot 1, Block 5, Lots 1 & 2, Block 6. The complete application materials for the proposed subdivision may be found at Ronan City Hall, 207 Main Street S.W. January 24, 2024 MNAXLP St. Ignatius School District #28 is opening our school beverage contract on January 22 and bids are due on May 3, 2024. This beverage contract bid will be for the next 7-10 years depending on distributors choice. Past distributors have included Coke and Pepsi, but anyone is welcome and encouraged to bid. St. Ignatius School District #28, St. Ignatius, MT 59865. Contact Jason Sargent for Bid Information 406-745-3811 ext. 4003.

CAUSE NO. DP-24-3 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will be forever barred as creditors of the decedent.

A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, must either be mailed to THOMAS RICHARD MCDONALD, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

DATED this 10th day of January, 2024. /s/ Thomas Richard McDonald THOMAS RICHARD MCDONALD, Personal Representative Jan. 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 MNAXLP

January 24, 2024 MNAXLP William P. Williams IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864 Telephone: (406) 676-4470 Attorney for Personal Representative bill@fgwilliamslaw.com MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT,

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January 24, 2024 - 27

Photography by Lifetime Photography by Lindsay Laws

Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s First Baby of 2024 Braxton Ross Andrus was the first baby born at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in 2024!

Braxton was born at 10:43pm on January 9th, 2024, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place in Polson.

Braxton was 21 inches long and weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces. Parents are Chrysta Cran and Dylan Andrus of Polson.

Braxton’s maternal grandparents are Christopher Cran and Janae Cran, and his paternal grandparents are Christopher Andrus and Mary Langlow.

Welcome to the world, Braxton!

406.883.5680 • #6 13th Avenue East, Polson, MT • montana.providence.org 28 - January 24, 2024

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