02-07-24 issue

$1.25

your homegrown newspaper February 7, 2024

Vol. 20, No. 21

Local author pg. 5

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO

‘Biggest baby shower’ supports families, children

FLIC pg. 6

By Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

Sports pg. 14

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO

PABLO — In support of families and their babies, CSKT Early Childhood Services held their annual Baby Fair at the Salish Kootenai College on Saturday, Feb. 3.

CSKT Early Childhood Services Director and event founder Jeanne Christopher said: “ I wanted to start the largest baby shower to help

support everyone who is having babies.”

With hundreds of attendees at the Feb. 3 event, it appeared Christopher’s goal was accomplished. Event goers participated in games and contests for prizes ranging from cook ware to a diaper tower. The event had dozens of sponsors from the community, including Mission Valley Power, Napa, Murdoch’s, Red Lion and Stageline

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

Pizza.

Participant Kayla Gardipe, who was there with her baby, had this advice: “When you are having a baby, get all the information you need, and come ask Early Childhood Services any question you have if you do not know something.” She added that having “a good support system and information” has see page 2

Baby Fair from page 1

been very valuable.

Lisa Castillo, staff member, said “This event makes it easier for parents to get things they may need due to all the prizes and all the information that is here.”

She said educational information provided includes expectations for developmental milestones and who families can talk to for support if needed.

She added a bit of her own encouragement for other parents. “You got this,” she said. Parents seeking support services can call ECS at 406745-4509.

vj

Bird hunting, fishing, recreation regulations for CSKT members available Comments welcome on proposed changes

News from Program Manager Stephanie Gillin, CSKT Information & Education

FLATHEAD RESERVATION — The Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes announce the availability of the March 1, 2024, to Feb.28, 2025, Hunting, Fishing and Recreation Regulations for CSKT members proposed changes. The Tribal Council welcomes comments from the public on these draft regulations.

Please contact the Permit office for a full set of 2024-2025 proposed Hunting, Fishing and Recreation Regulations for members and the annual supplemental booklets.

Regulation proposals include provisions to minimize the spread of wildlife diseases and the spread of aquatic invasive species. These include a season on American Bullfrogs, restrictions for Lick Cave to minimize the potential spread of white nose syndrome to bats, aquatic invasive species prevention and chronic wasting disease reporting.

Fisheries proposals, include trout harvest changes for the Jocko and Flathead River, floatation restrictions on Safe Harbor Marsh, updates to the lake trout fish consumption chart.

Elk hunting in the Ferry Basin Wildlife Management Unit, Bighorn Sheep Hunting in the Little Money (Camas) Wildlife Management Unit, Moose Hunting, and Off-Reservation Wild Bison

Hunting will be summarized in the 44D Member Regulations and specific information will be available in the annual supplemental booklets handed out with permits.

Proposed changes to these supplemental annual season and trapping regulations include updated season dates for Bighorn Sheep, Ferry Basin bull elk, and wolf. Moose harvest regulations will include designating a hunting season and implementing a harvest quota to address significantly declining populations on the reservation and throughout the Region. Additional big game clarifications are proposed. Annual hunting season updates for Big game, wolves, and waterfowl.

Recreation proposals include language on the safe discharge

of firearms, pyrotechnics, Bison Range entrance fee clarification, and proper internment of human remains on Tribal lands.

We ask that all comments be submitted via letter or email, no later than 5:30pm on March 1, 2024. There will be an in-person public comment period from 4:00-5:00pm on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024, at the CSKT Permit office, 406 Sixth Ave. E, Polson, MT 59860.

Written comments can be summited by letter to P.O. Box 278, Pablo, MT 59855 or via email to Amanda Bourdon, DFWRC Permit Agent at: recpermits@cskt.org or Amanda. bourdon@cskt.org or Stephanie Gillin, DFWRC Information & Education Program Manager at Stephanie.gillin@cskt.org.

Montana Historical Society announces public programs for February News from the Montana Historical Society

HELENA — The Montana Historical Society invites community members of all ages to attend its February public programs, which include lectures, workshops, and a special discussion on the Montana Heritage Center.

On Thursday, Feb. 1, at 6:30 p.m. at the Lewis and Clark Library, Ken Hamlin will present “Letters from the Montana Frontier.” In honor of Valentines Day, Hamlin will share historic letters from Montana related to the separation of married couples, 2 - February 7, 2024

PHOTO BY L.A. HOFFMAN TAKEN IN 1913

Author Sinclair Lewis and his soon-to-be wife, Grace Hegger, made a stop in eastern Montana.

families, and courtship through the mail. These touching examples and stories come from his book Montana Through the Mail: 1810-1889.

On Monday, Feb. 12, at 6 p.m. at Brothers

Tapworks, Montana Historical Society Director Molly Kruckenberg will share plans for and answer questions about the new $100 million facility currently under construction in

“The Montana Heritage Center: Saving Our Past, Sharing Our Stories.”

On Wednesday, Feb. 14, at 1 p.m. at Touchmark, Montana Historical Society interpretive historian Christine Brown will share “All the Sign Text That Isn’t Fit to Print,” highlighting the intriguing, sometimes macabre, and often sad stories that never made it onto National Register signs. Each year Montana Historical Society historians write 50 to 100 National Register of Historic Places signs, but invariably must leave out many juicy historical details in order to meet

Valley Journal

a 190-word limit.

On Thursday, Feb. 15, at 6:30 p.m. at the Lewis and Clark Library, Carroll College professor emeritus Bob Swartout will speak about Montana’s historical ethnic and social diversity, drawing from his book Montana: A Cultural Medley. Swartout’s book gathers enthralling stories from African American, Japanese American, Metis, Jewish, Dutch, and many other communities across the Treasure State.

The Montana Historical Society also is partnering with the Holter Museum to put on two historic Valen-

tine-making workshops this month. Participants will be provided with supplies and instruction to make their own Victorian-themed cards for their loved ones. Both workshops will be held at the Holter. The adult workshop will be on Thursday, Feb. 8, at 6 p.m., and the children’s workshop will be on Saturday, Feb. 10, at 10 a.m. Prior registration is required.

Only programs held at the library will be recorded and posted on the MTHS YouTube channel.

For more information, email laura.marsh@ mt.gov.

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This Week’s Weather Forecast Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Feb. 8

Feb. 9

Feb. 10

Feb. 11

36°/25°

33°/23°

33/19°

31°/19°

32°/20°

Cloudy 24% chance precipitation

Cloudy 22% chance precipitation

Mostly Cloudy 18% chance precipitation

Mostly Cloudy 15% chance precipitation

Mostly Cloudy 16% chance precipitation

Wednesday Feb. 7

Thursday

Monday

Tuesday

Feb. 12

Feb. 13

32°/19°

Partly Cloudy 14% chance precipitation

32°/22°

Partly Cloudy 10% chance precipitation

Flathead Lake Level 2886.56 ft (6.44 below full pool)

WED

2/07

7:56 am

5:45 pm

6:59 am

2:41 pm

THUR

2/08

7:55 am

5:47 pm

7:44 am

4:06 pm

FRI

2/09

7:53 am

5:48 pm

8:17 am

5:36 pm

SAT

2/10

7:52 am

5:50 pm

8:42 am

7:05 pm

Low 235° F

SUN

2/11

7:50 am

5:51 pm

9:03 am

8:31 pm

Precipitation 0.00 inches

MON 2/12

7:49 am

5:53 pm

9:21 am

9:56 pm

Record High 52° F

TUES

7:47 am

5:54pm

9:39 am

11:18 pm

2/13

Valley Journal

Today in History Feb. 7, 2023 High 43° F

Record Low -24° F

February 7, 2024 - 3

contents Local author..................5 Sports..........................14 FLIC...............................6 Seniors........................18 Unclaimed property.......8 Calendar......................23 Valley Views.................10 Classifieds.................. 25

winter fields, blue skies

And find us online for

contact us

more photos, videos, breaking news and special sections!

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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 - February 7, 2024

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

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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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.

Polson author’s new book published Story describes the lives of pioneer men of the early American West

as much as you love your spouse!

News from Farcountry Press

HELENA — Farcountry Press is excited to announce the release of “No Ordinary Journey: Stories of Men on the Overland Trails” by renowned author Mary Barmeyer O’Brien. In this compelling anthology, “No Ordinary Journey” delves into the lives of pioneer men who embarked on the arduous overland trails during the mid-nineteenth century, seeking adventure, prosperity, and a new life in the promising West.

“No Ordinary Journey” is a testament to Mary Barmeyer O’Brien’s dedication to preserving and sharing the tales of those who shaped the American frontier.

From the rugged landscapes to profound human experiences, readers will be captivated by the vivid narratives woven together by this skilled and talented author.

LOVE your MATTRESS

Mary Barmeyer O’Brien

Experience the challenges, triumphs, and sacrifices of these courageous men from diverse backgrounds, including Midwestern farmers, those escaping persecution, and others yearning for a fresh start, as they set out on a journey like no other.

The allure of the West motivated these men to undertake the most

grueling and dangerous expedition of their lives.

“No Ordinary Journey: Stories of Men on the Overland Trails” (ISBN: [978-1-56037-838-9], Far-country Press, 2024) is available in softcover at various local retailers, as well as online and Farcountry Press at 800821-3874, farcountrypress.com.

Mary Barmeyer O’Brien, a Polson, Montana resident, is the author of several books, both fiction and nonfiction, about women’s history and pioneers on the overland trails. Mary writes from her home in the mountains of western Montana, where she and her husband enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and exploring.

Valley Journal

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Filmmakers, enthusiasts to converge at 12th annual FLIC film festival News from FLIC Publicity

POLSON — Now in its 12th year, the Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC) offers a diverse selection of domestic and international films, featuring entries from a dozen countries as well as many homegrown Montana films.

FLIC 2024 is presented throughout the weekend of Feb. 16-18, at the Showboat Stadium 6, 416 Main Street, Polson. Encore screenings will run from Sunday evening, Feb. 18 through Thursday, Feb. 22.

Among the dozens of filmmakers who plan to attend FLIC in person this year are Oregonian Ray Nomoto Robison and Montana resident Mary Riitano, both of whom have participated in FLIC numerous times over the years.

Ray Nomoto Robison’s first visit to FLIC was in 2017 with his film “Dear Future Self,” which was well received.

Ray returned two years later with a narrative short called “An Affair Remains.” Last year, Ray traveled again to share his film “The Trunk.” It’s official: Ray has become a FLIC regular and is a beloved artist and friend to many Polson locals.

This year, Ray’s film 6 - February 7, 2024

“Will & Tess” is nominated for Best Picture – Short. “Will & Tess” tells a story that’s close to Ray’s heart and real-life experience. The short film’s synopsis: At 90 years of age, Tess must accept that it is time for roles to reverse.

For decades she and her husband Will have been supportive and caring parents and now they need to allow their children to care for them.

About his film, Ray shares, “Will & Tess” is the most personal film I’ve ever made. I wrote it in frustration with my elderly parents (90 and 96 years of age), especially my Dad, after trying to have them sign a Power of Attorney (POA) to allow me or any of their other children to take over responsibility in the event something were to happen to one or both of them. My Dad would have nothing to do with a POA – whether it be for finances or medical decisions – and implied that as soon as he signed it we, his children, would put him in an “old folks home.” As I wrote the screenplay it did evolve into a more loving and understanding story. I don’t plan to ever have my parents see the film.

I have made it because for me it is cathartic and

COURTESY PHOTO

Mary Riitano talks with Jessica King during a Q&A session following the 2023 FLIC film festival.

I hope my siblings can also find some peace in its story.”

FLIC Director David W. King interviewed Ray about his near-annual treks to FLIC. Ray shared, “For me – and I’ve been to a lot of film festivals – I enjoy the film festivals like FLIC that are in smaller communities where audiences turn out. I’ve been to some of the ones in bigger cities, which, unless they’re really a major film festival, the bigger city [festivals] seem to be just a lot of other filmmakers. What I enjoy about FLIC is that I feel like I’m showing my film in front of a real audience, and that’s very important to me as a filmmaker.”

Ray continues, “[The FLIC staff is] always so friendly and I definitely recognize so many of them that have come back each year. I’m only there for a weekend during the year, but yet you feel so familiar and comfortable with so many people that I know are a part of the theater and FLIC as well. I just feel very comfortable coming in there. And that is one of the things that’s really nice. For a lot of people, whether they be filmmakers or not, going into this situation where you don’t know anyone can be very difficult. But, with the way the people are there, the staff, you walk in and you just really feel very com-

Valley Journal

fortable in being there.

The filmmakers really do feel embraced once they come into Polson and attend all the events of FLIC.” When asked about Polson’s new Showboat Stadium 6 where FLIC screens, Ray responds, “The venue is just incredible. Showing at the Showboat is always so nice; things look so good and sound so good as well. That is one of the things that keeps me coming back is that venue you have there in Polson. So many of the other [FLIC] events are within walking distance and that is so nice. It’s sort of a vacation to be able to go to the film festival. I’m looking forward to the

Taste of Polson, which starts things off on Friday night. It’s going to be a good time.”

Montana resident Mary Riitano is also a FLIC veteran, having played diverse roles in half a dozen FLIC Official Selection films between 2018 and 2024.

Like Ray Nomoto Robison, Mary is a familiar and beloved member of FLIC’s growing artistic family. Her performances in “What Separates Us” (Best Picture, 2018), “Useless” (2019), “Wuthering Heights” (Best Picture, 2020), “Swing” (Best Actress nominee), and two of this year’s powerful Montana-made films, “Homestead” and “They Don’t Leave,” have all been stellar turns by a consummate artist.

Mary was Minnesota-born and raised in Montana by her parents Calvin and Joanne Pritchard, a janitor and homemaker respectively.

Along with her brother and sister, her family found laughter in the simplest of living. Their scrappy survival taught Mary resilience. The acting arts made an appearance in her young life through school plays.

Because of very rural living, further participation in the arts was not available to her growing up. Acting muses would not leave her heart alone and kept tapping Mary

see page 7

“

FLIC is a little treasure of a film festival tucked in the mountains in Montana... The experience is always topnotch; I cannot say enough good things about it.”

FLIC

from page 6

on the shoulder. Finally, she was to open to them after friends grabbed her to audition – and she was cast in her first community theatre play in the town to which she moved in young adulthood.

Mary devoured those opportunities. Her first acting training and homes were in several community theatres including IT Productions (a black box theatre she helped open), Grand Street Theatre, and Carroll College.

In a phone interview with King, Mary shared, “FLIC is this little treasure of a film festival tucked in the mountains in Montana, that has the most fantastic film festival runners. I mean, I’ve been to quite a few film festivals. You guys, I would consider are A-listers of film festivals.

You care very much about your filmmakers, you care very much about your content, and you stay very consistent with your messaging. The experience is always topnotch; I cannot say enough good things about it.”

Riitano continues,

- Mary Riitano, Montana actor

“I think the thing that FLIC/you guys do there is you manage topnotch programming while keeping the approachability to films in a realm where, if it’s the filmgoer or the filmmaker, there’s so much connectivity that happens between the connoisseur of the art and the creator of the art.

I love the fact that there’s a hometown, cozy feel to it, and you’re able to see your film show up amazing on screen with the technological updates.”

“The FLIC volunteers are attentive, and they know exactly what’s going on; there isn’t a dull eye or a dull ear in the place,” she added. “And I would have to say that moderating the Q&As afterwards, I love how you and [FLIC Producer] Jessica spread the attention out to everyone that’s onstage, so each person gets to share an experience or something special, or a favorite nugget about their filming. I love how you guys style your Q&As for filmmakers.”

FLIC 2024 gets underway at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 16 with the second annual “Taste of

Polson” gathering in the lobby of the Showboat Stadium 6. As with last year, many of Polson’s local eateries will offer samplings of their food fair as filmmakers and FLIC attendees mingle.

FLIC screenings commence at 6 p.m.

For full details visit FLICPolson.com, where a PDF of the entire 16page FLIC program and schedule can be viewed and downloaded. It provides descriptions of all 47 FLIC films, information on attending filmmakers like Ray Nomoto Robison and Mary Riitano, awards nominees, Saturday morning’s free breakfast and children’s screening of The Super Mario Bros. Movie, special food and entertainment events, the FLIC Awards Show and FLIC sponsors.

All films, times and events are subject to change. Festival passes are available for purchase at FLICPolson. com. FLIC is also on Instagram and Facebook, where information is updated regularly. Email: contact@flicpolson.com.

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February 7, 2024 - 7

Unclaimed Property Day is back, returning money to Montanans News from the Montana Dept. of Revenue

HELENA — The Montana Department of Revenue is holding approximately $128 million dollars that has yet to be claimed by citizens.

Montanans can search for abandoned money or other types of property.

The fastest and easiest way to search is online at: MissingMoney.com, a national database listing abandoned money in Montana and other states.

“We want to get this money back to the rightful owners”, said Montana Department of Revenue Director Brendan Beatty. “I encourage everyone to take a few minutes to search MissingMoney. com.”

Nearly 33 million people in the United States – 1 in every 7 – have unclaimed property, usually financial accounts, or items of value in which the owner has not initiated any activity for several years.

When that happens, and the company cannot locate the owner, the money or properties are submitted to the state. Examples are: unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts, and unused rebate cards. In Montana, abandoned property is turned over 8 - February 7, 2024

to the Montana Department of Revenue to be claimed by the rightful owner.

“The chance that you or someone you know having unclaimed property is 1 in 7.”, said Patti Wilson, Unclaimed Property Administrator for the State of Washington, and President of The National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA). She continued, “Much better odds than winning the lottery! While many people say, “I know where all my money is”, you would be surprised how

many times they search their name and find they have money owing to them. Searching your name is free and only takes a few minutes at MissingMoney.com.”

In 2021, to increase awareness of unclaimed property, NAUPA launched the first National Unclaimed Property Day on Feb. 1. Individuals are encouraged to search their name, a maiden or previous name, or the name of a business or non-profit.

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More than $2.87 billion dollars nationwide in unclaimed property

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Lake County marriages, divorces for January Marriages

Aine Rae Brady and Aidyn C. Rosenbaum Caitlin B. Carlson and Hunter Jake Harrison Mark Steven Padilla and Margaret L. Wheeler Joey Jay Crawford and Jolene B. Freres

Divorces

Jason F. Seidel and Brianna R. Seidel Shane Mergenthaler and Lynda Mergenthaler Jonathan W. Barlow and Rebecca L. Barlow James A. Noble and Luz M. Noble (Vega restored) David A. Roose and Kathleen M. Tomlinson (Whitman restored) David R. Fischer and Pamela A. Fischer (Gonzalez restored)

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Valley Journal

February 7, 2024 - 9

valley views Sick days (and nights) I

was sick last week. It ceries or mop the kitchen felt like a long and floor and before you can miserable 12 days – and say, “Chicken soup,” the that was just Monday, body aches return and I Tuesday and Wednesday. realize I’ve pushed it too I’m not good far and gone at being sick. and made Thankfully, myself sick Jill Pertler I don’t get again. It’s a Syndicated columnist much praclose-lose sittice. I’m one uation. Sick, of those roreally. bust and healthy types. I No one likes being like to joke that I’m too under the weather. You’re crabby to get sick; germs stuck in bed or on the know it’s best to steer couch – watching movies clear of me. So, when or taking a nap – which illness pounces, it catches in any other situation me off guard. might be enjoyable if My biggest problem you weren’t sneezing, (aside from the obvious coughing, aching and in one of being sick) is I general being plagued by have no patience for the kind of hacking that being a patient. I lie on has nothing to do with the couch and convince computers. myself I’m feeling better Your head pounds and – besides the laundry isn’t you alternate between going to fold itself – so the chills and sweats, I get up and throw in a depending on where quick load or run for gro- your fever is at any giv-

Slices of Life

letters

Transitioning to clean energy ultimately frees us Editor, Re: “Enough already” ( January 24, 2024).

Contrary to the suggestion in the letter, heading off the worst effects of climate change need not require any restrictions on personal lib10 - February 7, 2024

erties. Neither scientists who’ve provided our understanding of the issue, nor advocates of a transition to clean energy are interested in controlling others’ lives. Climate advocates simply share with most readers the desire for our children and grandchildren to have lives full of choices and free from disruptions and

en moment. Your eyes and throat burn. You are painfully aware of each of your sinus cavities. You’re thirsty, but can’t gather the energy to reach out from under the quilt and pick up the can of 7-Up sitting two feet in front of you. Your arms weigh 200 pounds – apiece.

The worst comes in the middle of the night when you are supposed to be sleeping, but you can’t because your nose is clogged, which makes breathing an Olympic feat. My latest illness left me a drippy, runny, sniffly, snuffly, congested mess.

Why is it one nostril is always more plugged than the other? I’ll wake at 2 a.m. with one side of my nose 100-percent inoperable, while the other is clear. I concentrate on breathing through the good nostril and drift off,

but wake up 10 minutes later, jaw wide open, lips and tongue dried like beef jerky from breathing through my mouth.

Being sick is undeniably unattractive, and I haven’t even mentioned the snoring (which I do not do, by the way).

My sons paid little heed to my infectious situation. I coughed. I groaned. I shivered. I cowered under a blanket on the couch. No one said a word or offered to get me soda crackers or a hot cup of tea. Poor me.

Maybe they were afraid of my germs and wanted to avoid becoming sick themselves. I think it’s more likely they were either oblivious to my situation or simply ignoring it, like you ignore a problem you hope will fade away. Not that they wanted me to fade away

– just the germs. I hope.

On day four (or was it five?) I considered wearing pajamas until noon – to see if that would get their attention, but I figured they were so intent on ignoring me, they probably wouldn’t even notice. I had a coughing fit in the family room and thought this large and loud display might make them aware of my plight. They got up and went to watch TV in the kitchen.

For his credit, one son did heat up a couple frozen pizzas one night and on day six he asked how I was feeling, so there may be some Florence Nightingale in him after all.

I’m just glad I’m better – and that none of them caught it. Then the tables would have been turned and I’ll let you in on a little secret: I’m not much

unnecessary costs.

Some advocates of climate action adhere to political views with which the letter writer would no doubt disagree.

However, many conservative, small-government favoring groups recognize the damage we’re doing to our planet by burning fossil fuels, and support free market-oriented ap-

proaches to the problem.

A quick and partial list would include Young Conservatives for Energy Reform, RepublicEN, American Conservation Coalition, and Young Conservatives for Carbon Dividends.

A future in which we power our world with energy that doesn’t pollute the atmosphere will

be cheaper and healthier.

We now have most of the tools we need to energize our lives sustainably for the first time in human history. Still needed is sufficient political will to support common-sense policies to speed the transition to nonpolluting energy.

Valley Journal

see page 11

of a Florence Nightingale myself.

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

Let’s transcend our fears and work together to provide a brighter future for our children.

Rich Harris Charlo

State monies shouldn’t support private schools Editor, I grew up in Butte and attended Christian (Catholic) schools there for 12 years. To pay tuition for 7 children, was not easy for my parents but they felt the commitment was important. And although they chose this path, they never ceased to remind us children that though our education was a bit different —it was not better than the neighborhood children we played/interacted with who attended public schools.

Thus, I stand totally opposed to my state monies going to support private schools. As it turned out, my husband, myself and our two children became school educators

as life commitments—all in public schools. And those schools relied on local and state funds to maintain their levels of excellence in their communities. Perhaps the reason that MT is finding it difficult to hire and maintain teachers has to do with our lack of commitment to our local schools where teachers have some of the lowest salaries in our country and yet, some of the most important and demanding jobs.

Should parents feel they are not getting what they want out of their schools (and I’m certain this is a small minority), then they need to engage in creative thinking and create their own private schools. Just don’t ask those of us who are committed to keeping our local schools safe and strong to financially support these endeavors. My parents did it with lots of sacrifice and so can you.

And perhaps the monies saved by not yielding to these demands could be set aside to assist our thousands of fellow Montanans recently de-

nied any further Medicaid assistance. How terribly frightening is that?

Carol Werner Ronan

Vote based on actions, not declarations Editor, Recently, while sitting our family’s fictitious library room, I read the Legislative Notes, those by Rep Usher.

His article brought up an important subject, Montana judges. He said that in spite of their apparent impartiality they “...are in fact politicians.”

Unfortunately seeing the effort our Republican controlled “elected” state officials have put forth to solidify this perception by trying to make it easier for the Governor to appoint judges, rather than have us elect them, sadly makes his statement more true than I would like to believe.

Seeing how, at the federal level, a politically controlled congress could keep a Supreme Court Presidential appointment from occurring or how

they could control how the background of a nominee of their choice could be filtered, not to mention how a sitting judge continues deciding “impartially” with a politically active wife and a wealthy political “friend” willing to give him significant “gifts,” I have to applaud Rep. Usher for his candor.

But I have a different conclusion than he when he says know your judge.

Mine is know beyond the party label, who you put into power. The label is not indicative of a set of principals any more than a religious affiliation guarantees your final destination.

How does the person act. Remember someone seeking your vote is likely to tell you what you want to hear. That does not mean they will act in the same manner. Judges are no different. Look to what they do to judge them. How open are they really to what the truth is and how much is political speech.

Vote for a judge for their character in life, not declarations of that

character.

The same holds true of the politician. It is easy to see if what they claim is true.

But unfortunately, that also requires being open to information from multiple sources and questioning the information. It is easy to find fault, none of us are perfect, but the continuation of belief in a person beyond their repeated behavior goes to one’s flaw in self, not the charlatan’s.

Rich Bell Polson

DPHHS audit was necessary Editor, The response from our government to the COVID-19 crisis will be second-guessed and cross-checked for years to come. Some decisions made sense while some were egregious oversteps.

One decision made by the federal government was to put a pause on state governments looking at the qualifications of individuals on the Medicaid programs,

traditional as well as expansion. The result of disallowing states to manage their Medicaid programs was a sharp incline of those receiving benefits from Montana Medicaid, qualifying or not.

No matter your thoughts on where the government went wrong during COVID-19, I hope we all can agree that any program, especially a government-run program, is not sustainable if it is not allowed to be managed. It is detrimental to the diligently working taxpayer. I would also argue it is detrimental to the unqualified who still receive benefits that draw from tax dollars from other state services.

Thankfully about nine months ago the Federal government declared the pandemic over and states resumed their jobs. This created a monumental task for our Montana Department of Health and Human Services (DPHHS) to go through the Medicaid enrollees and make sure they were qualified to receive the see page 12

Dinner & Show: $45 ~ Brunch & Show: $45 ~ Show Only Ticket: $15 ( All 3 Tickets Include Dessert) Valley Journal

February 7, 2024 - 11

Montana’s public lands should be run by Montanans, not D.C. A

s a fifth-generation Land Policy and Management Montanan, I have fond Act” and the “Montana Wilmemories with my Grandpa derness Study Act” requirDaines of learning how to fish ing the Bureau of Land Manand hunt north of Big Timber, agement and the Forest Service and my goal is to pass these to determine if 47 Wilderness traditions on to my own chilStudy Areas (WSA) were suitdren and grandchilable for a permadren. There is no nent Wilderness better way to exdesignation in U.S. Senator Steve Daines perience Montana Montana. than backpacking, hunting, These studies were complethiking or fishing. I share this ed between 1979 and 1991 and passion with many Montanfound that the Middle Fork ans, which is why improvJudith, Hoodoo Mountain and ing access to our public lands Wales Creek WSAs should is such a high priority. That’s not be permanent Wilderness why I introduced my “Montana areas. Recent studies came to Sportsmen Conservation Act.” the same conclusion, and yet Montanans should deCongress has failed to listen to termine what is best for our Montanans and act. It’s time public lands, not bureaucrats in we finally follow through on Washington, D.C. My bill car- these science-based recommenries out what Montanans have dations. asked for—it improves wildlife My “Montana Sportsmen habitat and public access to Conservation Act” focuses public land and mitigates the on these three WSAs. The risk of wildfires.

Middle Fork Judith WSA, Here are the facts: Nearly 50 managed by the U.S. Forest years ago – in 1976 and 1977 Service with 81,000 acres, – Congress passed the “Federal and two managed by BLM;

Valley Views

letters from page 11

benefits. Director Brereton and the DPHHS are doing precisely what their jobs require, spending long hours and going through copious amounts of paperwork to make sure they get it right.

If you want more Montanans to receive taxpayer-funded health care, or if you think it is best for the dignity of the individual as well as your 12 - February 7, 2024

working neighbor who is paying for it that we tighten up the qualifications, then the legislative committee room is the place to have that debate in the upcoming legislative session. As for now, I applaud the state workers who have diligently accomplished the task mandated of them amidst a few wrongly directed negative comments.

Rep. Matt Regier HD4 Speaker of the Montana House

Hoodoo Mountain WSA with 11,380 acres and Wales Creek WSA with 11,580 acres. Combined, the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management held over 120 public meetings, and received feedback from over 1,000 Montanans, to again conclude that these three WSAs are not suitable for a wilderness designation. Each of the landscapes have a land management plan for post-release that was developed with public input. Each plan also carefully maintains important protections while empowering land agencies to do what’s best for the wildlife, the forests and the surrounding communities.

The Forest Service completed a more than six-year, multi-million-dollar forest plan revision in the fall of 2021 for the Helena Lewis and Clark National Forest. The forest plan revision process provides an unmatched opportunity for broad and robust public input into land management

What is the benefit of a citizen ballot initiative?

Editor, Currently there are six ballot initiatives approved by the Secretary of State for signature gathering.

Several are sponsored by single individuals. One by a young teenage girl.

These are Montanans.

None are sponsored by out-of-state corporations like the marijuana initiative was.

Montana is one of sev-

decisions. After six years of public input and analyzing the needs and conditions of the forest, the agency concluded the Middle Fork Judith WSA should be returned to general public land management. This flexibility would make it easier for the Forest Service to do much-needed vegetation management to restore and improve elk habitat and mitigate the risk of catastrophic wildfires.

Similarly, the Bureau of Land Management completed the Missoula Land and Resource Management Plan revision in 2020. After five years of public input and analyzing the needs and conditions on the land, the agency concluded the Hoodoo Mountain and Wales Creek WSAs should not be managed as wilderness. BLM’s plan for both of these WSAs would retain important wildlife habitat protections while giving the agency flexibility to address the mountain pine beetle outbreak that heavily impacted the area, mitigate wildfire risk and

eral states whose constitution allows for individual citizens to sponsor a ballot initiative to change or amend an existing law. These initiatives go through a strict process of legal and constitutional review by the Attorney General. Initiatives are usually the result of the failure of the legislature or other regulatory agencies to do the will of the people. This is sometimes due to political pressures exerted by the current ruling political party, powerful

Valley Journal

enhance backcountry recreation opportunities.

These studies are driven by science, and after looking at the facts, I consulted county commissioners, recreation and wildlife groups and Montanans throughout the state. It is clear that Montanans want the ability to determine the designations of these lands rather than leaving them in limbo for decades.

From mountain bikers to hunters to fishermen to motorized and non-motorized users, Montanans know how best to manage our lands. Returning these WSAs to general management provides the opportunity to make science-based decisions on lands for public access, wildlife habitat and wildfire prevention. It is past time to allow local management decisions to be made here in Montana, not in Washington, D.C. It is past time to accept the input of Montanans and pass my “Montana Sportsmen Conservation Act.”

lobbyists or even foreign governments.

Montana’s initiative process is one that truly allows the citizens of the state to determine rules and regulations that affect their daily lives. This is truly democracy in action.

When a signature gatherer is asking for your signature, all this means is that you agree that the people of Montana should decide the particular issue with a vote, instead of bureaucrats, many who are not elect-

ed, but appointed by the Governor.

A signature is not a vote in favor or against the issue, just allowing it on the ballot. Plain and simple. Many factions are actively opposing several of these initiatives. As with anything, political falsehoods abound to keep registered voters from giving a signature of support placing the initiative on the ballot. Who knows better, the government or the people? Don’t see page 13

letters from page 12

be fooled.

Rick Schoening Polson

Those who don’t do job right should be disciplined Editor, To Tribal Council and to all those involved with the program who failed to follow through with their jobs.

When you put your trust in those to do their jobs and they end up hurting you by not doing their jobs, they should be disciplined.

The Tribal Health Program contacted me back

Please join us!

in October letting me know that there is a new program funded by the HIPPI and they received funds to help those in need for medical care, such as providing rides to Dr. appointments, etc.

So I called their program to let them know that I will need assistance.

Upon doing so I had a home visit by the Tribal Health nurse and a CHR worker. I gave them a rundown of my needs along with informing them of the recent findings in November 2023 of a severe rotator cuff problem along with back surgery that was recommended in 2022, which I’m getting a second opinion about.

After another appointment with my surgeon, knee surgery was

scheduled. I notified the program of the scheduled surgery date and time along with what hospital it will take place in.

I followed up with the program five days before the surgery to verify they had set up a ride, they informed me of who would pick me up for the surgery.

The Tribal Health Program failed to pick me up for the surgery and I confirmed with them by 10:15 a.m. they made a mistake and they said they had no other driver to take me to the hospital for the surgery.

Out of respect for the surgical team I immediately called the hospital and let them know Tribal Health has no ride to get me to the hospital and

they would have to cancel my surgery.

Only one person called and clarified they were not the one who did this to me.

Thank you Liz, for your honesty and compassion. All the rest of them should lose their jobs.

Sharlene Peone Ronan

All’s fair in love, war and U.S. politics?

Editor, The smooth transition of Presidential power came to an end after 225 years due to Donald Trump. The work of many, highly placed Republicans is responsible for this debacle.

After 35 months, Wis-

consin Republican “fake electors” who collaborated with Donald Trump to overturn the 2020 Presidential election results, have admitted Joe Biden won that battleground state. These “fake electors” have agreed they would not serve as electors in 2024. Despite his attempt to sabotage the 2020 Presidential election, Robert Spindell still serves on the Wisconsin Election Commission.

American Oversight: Arizona state Senator Kelly Townsend, “VP Pence, don’t accept AZ valid electors.” This was echoed by AZ Rep Jake Hoffman. AZ Republican Party Chair Kelli Ward signed off on a bogus electoral slate. Another fake elector, James

Lamon. PA fake electors, McCoy and Brachenberg were also part of the AZ audit.

In Nevada, Republican Party Chair McDonald was one of six fake electors. Former Trump staffer Jesse Law now chairs the Clark County Republican Party. Nevada Republican Party Vice Chair, James DeGraffenried was another “fake elector.”

American Oversight found records in Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and New Mexico communicating with the National Archives re: submission of alternate certificates claiming Trump had won these states.

Sheila Bell Polson

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February 7, 2024 - 13

sports Two Eagle boys basketball team secures win against Hot Springs Story and photos

by Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

PABLO — The Two Eagle River School boys basketball team took the win against Hot Springs on Thursday, Feb. 1, 65 to 53.

The gym was filled with families from both teams as well as the smell from the concession stand wafting through the door.

Head coach DJ Piapot said,“We are having a good season. We’ve only lost four games thus far, and we have four games left after this one.”

He continued to reflect on earlier games: “We have only lost by one or two points each game other than Charlo.

My boys put in hard work day-in and dayout, and they’re dedicated to the school and dedicated to what I’m teaching them.”

The Two Eagle girls came out and took a 43-50 loss against Hot Springs.

Coach Nina Orozco said, “The girls have been playing with heart, and even when we lose, they still come off the court smiling.”

“They are working on communication and learning how to click together,” she added.

14 - February 7, 2024

Valley Journal

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

Security Officer Part Time

Salary Range: $14.80/hr Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Salary Range: $12.57 - $13.84/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

TGA Instructor

College & Career Readiness Coach (2 postions open)

Salary Range $43,823 - $45,025 DOEE Closing Date: Monday, January 22, 2024 at 4:00pm MST

Salary range: $17.35/hr-$20.17/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Assistant Director/Lead Teacher – Early Learning Center

College & Career Readiness Mentor (3 positions open)

Salary Range: $38,880 - $45,725 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Salary Range: $17.35/hr-$20.17/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Health Promotion Practices Department Chair

NYCP College & Career Readiness Instructor

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

(Part time, 9 months) Salary Range: $25.01/hr-$29.63/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Custodial Services Supervisor

Early Learning Center-Assistant Teacher (9.5 months)

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

Salary Range: $15.01/hr-$16.92/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center-Toddler Teacher (9.5 months)

Early Learning Center-Lead Toddler Teacher (9.5 months)

Salary Range: $15.33/hr-$17.24/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Salary range: $22.48/hr-$23.22/hr DOEE Closing Date: Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024; 4:00pm MST

IT/Computer Science Faculty

Director of Office Institutional Advancement SKC Foundation Department

Salary Range: $44,670-$45,719 DOEE Closing Date: Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Salary Range: $56,043-$65,430 DOEE Closing Date: Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Nursing Faculty (2 openings) (10 months)

Nursing Simulation Lab Instructor

Salary Range: $55,935-$65,551 DOEE Closing Date: Dec. 4, 2023; 4:00pm MST

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

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

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

February 7, 2024 - 15

sports shorts Polson Girls Basketball The Polson Lady Pirate basketball team fell Jan. 30 on the road to Bigfork, 21-63. Rylee Taylor-Jefferson was the top scorer with 6 points followed closely by Aleysia Black with 4. The Lady Pirates came away with the win on Saturday, Feb. 3 against the Lady Loggers in Libby. Taylor-Jefferson scored the most points again with 12, followed by McKenna Hanson with 8. Next up the Lady Pirates host Columbia Falls at home on Feb. 6 and Ronan at home again on Feb. 10.

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.

16 - February 7, 2024

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Ezra Fasthorse shoots a short jumper during a Jan. 23 game against the Libby Loggers.

Valley Journal

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Rylee Taylor-Jefferson goes in for a layup after a steal during an earlier season game against the Lady Libby Loggers.

briefs

Arlee local named to Dean’s list

FVCC announces Fall 2023 Dean’s List

FRANKLIN, MASSACHUSETTES — Dean College is pleased to announce that Elaina Baldwin of Arlee has earned a place on the Dean’s List for the Fall 2023 semester.

Students named to the Dean’s List have demonstrated a serious commitment to their studies while at Dean College.

KALISPELL — Flathead Valley Community College officials have announced the names of students who made the Dean’s List for the Fall 2023 semester. The following students completed at least 12 credits last semester in courses numbered 100 or above and earned a minimum grade point

Flowers are great and all, but average of 3.5: Big Arm: Roan Ihnat Charlo: Brennan Andersen Kyla Tomlin Lakeside: Brandon Ashbaugh, Wyett Daley, Ni Irwin, Brooklyn Kallenberger, Michael Katchur, Klae Kelly, Staci Yearsley Plains: Kallen Burrows, Izibelle Crabb Polson: Timothy Carlin, Madelynn Simpson, Layne Zimmerman St. Ignatius: Sydney Brander, Kaylee Koenig

$600,000 to strengthen Direct Care workforce News from the office of the Governor

HELENA — Governor Greg Gianforte recently announced an investment of up to $600,000 to strengthen the Direct Support Professional (DSP) workforce and better support Montanans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

As recommended by the Behavioral Health System for Future Generations (BHSFG) Commission, the investment represents the third allocation of $300 million in funding the governor de-voted last year to reform and improve Montana’s behavioral health and developmental disabilities

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services systems.

“With this investment, we are equipping our health care delivery system with the right tools and training needed to support Montanans with IDD seeking medical and behavioral health care,” Gov. Gianforte said.

The initiative will provide one-time grants to five service providers for DSPs to become certified, and to sponsor access to training for healthcare professionals and behavioral health staff working with Montanans with IDD. More information may be found on the Behavioral Health System for Future Generations page.

HELENA — Montanans have just a few more weeks 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.

Livestock reports and payments are due March 1. Owners can report and pay online through the department’s TransAction Portal at: https://MTRevenue.gov/livestock.

Livestock owners must report what

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Livestock reports, payments due March 1 News from the Montana Dept. of Revenue

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they owned 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 preferring a paper reporting form can download one at MTRevenue.gov or call 406- 444-6900 for assistance.

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

Valley Journal

February 7, 2024 - 17

seniors St. Ignatius

By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — There will be an increase in the cost of the meals by $1 in February due to the increased cost of food supplies, power, heat, and other supplies.

If you would like a takeout meal, call 406-745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesday and Friday and by 2 p.m. on Wednesday. Times of meals are listed below. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the St. Ignatius Senior Center.

Menu: — Friday Feb. 2: noon stuffed cabbage rolls, cooked carrots, peaches, cinnamon rolls — Tuesday Feb. 6: noon split peas soup, corn bread, green salad, apple sauce, donut — Wednesday Feb. 7: 5:30pork chops, salad, green beans, pears, garlic bread, strawberry cream puffs — Friday Feb. 9: noon chicken, biscuits, peaches, coleslaw, birthday cake — Tuesday Feb. 13: noon pork stir fry, cottage cheese, apricots, cherry dessert We have walkers, canes, crutches, and a bath bench to loan out.

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

Gently Yoga is held on Wednesdays from 1-2:15 p.m.

If you are interested, call Bonnie Kiser at 406-253-0177. Her rates are five sessions for $60.

Our St. Ignatius Senior Center is available for rental. Call 406745-4462 and leave a message.

We will call you back with the information you need.

We will hold the AARP Driv18 - February 7, 2024

ing Class soon. Keep an eye out for the notifications.

Ronan

By Donna Daniels for the Valley Journal

RONAN — The 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: — Wednesday, Feb. 7: sausage/ peppers, salad, dessert — Friday, Feb. 9: meatloaf, mac & cheese, salad, dessert — Monday, Feb. 12: cook’s choice, salad, dessert — Wednesday: hamburger vegetable or cream of tomato soup & sandwiches, salad, dessert — Monday, Feb. 11: roast pork dinner - Fill up before the Super Bowl!

AARP tax people will be here every Wednesday through April 10, starting Feb. 7. They will prepare taxes for anyone of any age and any income. Give us a call to sign up for this great service at 406-676-2371.

Senior Center dues are $10 per person and due for 2024.

We are once again looking for help. If you or someone you know is interested stop by.

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 held 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.

Anyone 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. Also, we will gladly send you a menu, if requested.

Polson

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — The Senior Center is providing AARP Tax Assistance through April 15 on Mondays or Thursdays. Call for an appointment time: 10 a.m.-11 a.m.-1 p.m.-2 p.m.-3 p.m. Pick up your packet and forms and fill out prior to your appointment.

Activities: — Wood Carving for beginners. Sign up at the center and leave a phone number for more information. Advanced carvers may join in. Some tools may be provided.

— Bowling: Tuesdays at 1 p.m. - lane fee $13 - open group Bridge: inquire at center VA rep. first Friday and third Tuesday (Feb. 2 and Feb. 20). Walk-in.

— Bingo: bingo Friday night 6:30 start - doors open at 6 p.m. $100 blackout - “Playing Card” bingo on 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 Valley Journal

balance and flexibility) 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 noon3 p.m.

— Space is available to host card/boardgames, or other small groups during the day. Call ahead.

MENU (subject to change): A suggested donation of $5 for your meal will help support the Nutrition Program. We serve lunch from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - sitdown or take-out - call before 10 a.m. for delivery and call in for grab-n-go — Wed., Feb 7: taco soft shell, Spanish rice, black bean salad, apple crisp — Thursday, Feb. 8: hot pork sandwich, mashed spuds, mixed up veggies, Tex-Mex slaw, gingerbread — Friday, Feb. 9: fish dish, tater tots, cream corn, peach jello, spice cake — Mon., Feb. 12: beef vegetable soup, cheese bread, carrot/ raisin salad, gingerbread — Tue., Feb. 13: ham, scalloped spuds, green beans, rolls, pear/cheese salad, cookies — Wed. Feb. 14: barbecue ribs, baked potatoes, beets, jello salad, “Hear’s my Heart” cookies — Thu., Feb. 15: oven baked stew, bread, tater salad, cheesecake — Fri., Feb. 16: sloppy Joe, tater tots, creamy corn, carrot/celery sticks, pistachio pudding We are located at 504 Third Ave. E; open from 8 am.–3 p.m. weekdays only; closed on weekends and most holidays.

Call 406-883-4735 or email us at: polsonseniorcenter@gmail. com. Visit us on Facebook.

Polson Library renovation update News from the staff of North Lake County Public Library

POLSON — The Polson Library is now closed while we move into our newly renovated building.

During this transition, we will not have access to our phones until we receive our final permit. If you need to reach us, please email us at polsonlibrary@northlakecountylibrary.org. We will check our email daily as time allows. You can also send us a message on Facebook which will be answered the fastest.

We know everyone is very excited to see the changes that have been made to our library, so here is the opening schedule: — Monday, Feb. 12, from 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. is a Sneak Peek Mother Goose and Story Time combined.

Families with children ages 0-5 are welcome to join us. We will introduce the children to our new space, have stories, songs and play time.

— Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 1 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. we will offer group tours of the entire facility. Groups will form every 15 minutes at the new entry.

— Wednesday, Feb. 14, at 9 a.m. is our Grand Opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony, giveaways, our Adopt-a-Book program and much more.

Watch our social media and website for updates and details. We have digital offerings available including Libby for eBooks, audiobooks and magazines, Kanopy for movies, Flipster for a select offering of magazines, and EducateStation for educational materials. More information at: https://www.northlakecountylibrary.org.

obituaries Toby Kovarik MISSOULA — Toby James Kovarik, 34, passed away on Jan. 24, 2024, at St. Patrick Hospital. Toby was born on Dec. 15, 1989, to Curtis and Sandee Kovarik. He was the youngest of seven children. He joined Toby Kovarik Melanie, Kelly, Jade, Cawin, Angela, and Ruby. Later he gained a stepmother, Christy, and three more siblings, Ashley, Kelsie and Summer, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Toby had countless friends,

too many to list, who loved him dearly. Toby had a love for plants, flowers, and trees, which led him to work in landscaping.

Toby loved good food and cooking as Toby well. This led Kovarik to several jobs in the food industry in Polson. His love of the water led him to jump in the lake whenever he could.

Toby had a strong love of animals including his beloved dog Foxy, his birds, and his bearded dragons.

Toby will be missed by all who crossed his path. Toby touched the lives of everyone

he met in a special way. His sense of humor will be missed.

A special thank you to the excellent caregivers at St. Joseph Hospital who took such good care of him and made him comfortable.

Garnet Stuerke POLSON — Garnet Crusch Stuerke was born on April 15, 1949, in Williston, North Dakota. She was the first child to Cecil and Geraldine (Egosque) Crusch.

When she was young, Garnet she was often Stuerke teased that she

Valley Journal

was mom and dad’s tax deduction because she was born on the day their taxes were due.

She grew up in the Mission Valley with her younger sister, Beverly. Garnet attended school in Ronan and always made time for fun. She graduated, along with her many friends, in 1967. The following year she moved to Billings and attended beauty college. On her first Thanksgiving there, she rode the train home and shocked her dad with bleached blonde hair that she had tinted purple. Cecil said that he wanted his money back from the college. She was always a little wild like that, and we loved her for it.

After graduating from beauty college, Garnet met Ross

Ebel. They were married in 1969 and settled in the Bitterroot Valley. They had two sons, Ross and Justin. Garnet’s sons were each the light of her life.

In 1975 Garnet moved with Ross and Justin to Loveland, Colorado. She became a talented hair stylist that people knew by just her first name.

Her mother joked that Garnet worked so hard to please people that she would put a curl at the end of their nose if they asked. She loved to stay current on all the hair trends and techniques and enjoyed traveling to hair shows; especially when they were in Las Vegas, and she could watch Elvis Presley perform. see page 20

February 7, 2024 - 19

Obituaries from page 19

She lived and worked in Colorado for over 40 years. After she retired, she moved back to Polson to be closer to her mom and sister.

Garnet was a very loving person, and she always had a small dog that she would spoil rotten. She had the ability to make anyone feel like her friend and loved to be social. She was a great friend to have.

After a lengthy illness, Garnet passed away on the morning of Jan. 26, 2024, surrounded by the people who loved her.

She is survived by her sons, Eric Allen of Butte and Ross Ebel of Polson, as well as her sister, Beverly ( James) Bailey and their children, Seth, Tye, Wade, and Autumn.

She is preceded in death by her mother and father; her son, Justin; and her nephew, Jamie.

Services will be announced at a later date.

“When she shall die, take her and cut her out in little stars, and she will make the face of Heaven so fine that all the world will be in love with night and pay no worship to the garish sun” -William Shakespeare Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www. lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

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

vj 20 - February 7, 2024

births Triskele Campo

Flathead Transit

RONAN — Triskele James Campo was born on Jan. 29, 2024, at the St. Luke New Beginnings Birth Center. He measured 7 pounds, 8 Triskele ounces and Campo 21 inches long. Parents are Austin Campo and Lea Meyers of Polson. Paternal grandmother is Mary Booth of Redding, California. Maternal grandparents are Sandra Lovisa of Redding, California, and Anthony Meyers of Ronan.

Triskele joins siblings, Kimbra and Ivoree.

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briefs

Financial aid offered to CRP land owners News from the USDA

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is offering financial assistance to agricultural producers and private landowners enrolled in its Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) to improve the health of their forests.

The Forest Management Incentive, available through USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), can help participants with forest management practices, such as brush management and prescribed burning.

Chamber seeks host for 2024 Cherry Festival News from the Polson Chamber of Commerce

POLSON — The Polson Chamber of Commerce is asking that people/businesses with a minimum of five years of experience in hosting large events, submit their application and portfolio for the 2024 Flathead Cherry Festival on July 26, 27, 22 - February 7, 2024

& 28.

This opportunity to subcontract for the Chamber includes but not limited to the following responsibilities: marketing plan beginning 2-10-24; filing and permitting; insurance; registered business, experience with large events, experience with artist events, fluent in social media platforms, fluent with online support/registration for sales and vendors; organizing sanitation, tenting for 5000+ people; plan for vendor loading/ unloading; layout, mapping for event; security; other duties.

The Composting and Food Waste Reduction cooperative agreements, which are funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, are part of USDA’s broad support for urban agriculture. The program is jointly administered by USDA’s Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA). The recommended projects will be implemented between now and 2026.

“These Composting and Food Waste Reduction projects help

reduce food waste, produce compost for soil health, and even supplement the community food bank,” said Tom Watson, State Conservationist of USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Montana.

Added Maureen Wicks, State Executive Director for Farm Service Agency: “Local strategies and tools like these are important climate solutions and also contribute to food security at the community level here in Montana.”

USDA prioritized projects that antici-

Approximately $11.5M invested in composting, food waste reduction projects News from the USDA

BOZEMAN — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing approximately $11.5 million in 38 cooperative agreements that support innovative, scalable waste management plans to reduce and divert food waste from landfills. This includes three projects in Montana.

Valley Journal

pate or demonstrate economic benefits, incorporate plans to make compost easily accessible to farmers, including community gardeners, integrate other food waste strategies, including food recovery efforts and collaborate with multiple partners. The collaboration between NIFA and the Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production is part of USDA’s framework to transform the U.S. food system to benefit consumers, producers and rural communities by providing

more options, increasing access, and creating new and better markets for small and mid-size producers.

Three projects in Montana are included: one in the city of Helena; one in Gallatin County and one in the city/county of Butte Silver Bow. For a complete list of these recommended cooperative agreement recipients and project summaries, visitusda. gov/urban. These new agreements build on USDA’s $12 million investment in 82 agreements since 2020.

calendar Wednesday, Feb. 7 West. MT Conservation Commission meets in Polson POLSON — On Wednesday, Feb. 7, and Thursday, Feb. 8, from 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. the Western Montana Conservation Commission will hold meetings at the KwaTaqNuk Resort, 49709 US Hwy. 93. These meetings are open to the public.

Learn to meditate via Zoom ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. Please join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednes-

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

day, Feb. 7, and on subsequent Wednesdays, for an online meditation class led

by Zen Teacher, Zenku, including meditation instruction, practice, and discussion via Zoom.

The classes will be each Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@gmail.com.

Thursday, Feb. 8 West. MT Conservation Commission holds second meeting in Polson POLSON — On Thursday, Feb. 8, from 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. the Western Montana Con-

servation Commission will hold their second meeting at the KwaTaqNuk Resort, 49709 US Hwy. 93. At the second meeting you can meet the new staff and discuss their strategic vision and commission logistics. These meetings are open to the public.

Masumola Clubhouse members to dance, dine, wine POLSON — We are doing away with curfews so put on your dancing shoes. Social hour begins at 5:45 p.m. at the Masumola Clubhouse on Thursday, Feb. 8. Hosts are staying until the party is over.

Bring your Valentine, if you have one, or just your-

self and your smile. We invite you to participate in the Masumola Club meeting on Feb. 8, an early Valentine’s celebration of friendship, love, food, chocolate, wine, and Masumola-style community.

Please RSVP in the next few days so that they have numbers when purchasing food. Respond to this email: macswan44@gmail. com. (Should you forget to RSVP, don’t let that deter you from attending.)

Hosts will provide a tomato-based seafood chowder as a main course and bread.

Program begins at 6 p.m. “Exploring the middle shelf: A wine tasting to discover the best of the reds and whites without breaking the bank.

Bring one bottle of either a white or red wine that can be purchased locally for between $9.49 and $14.49. You will have the opportunity to blind taste varieties, and winners may emerge. Bring a dish to pass, your utensils and your favorite wine glass. Suggested food distribution: A-M chocolate desserts; N-Z salad or appetizer.

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 406-7265550 or email: foodpantry@arleecdc.org, or you can just stop by the Arlee CDC at the times above.

Friday, Feb. 9 Attend ‘Go Red for Women’ Fashion Show PABLO — Multiple categories will be held at the Feb. 9 “Go Red for see page 24

REGISTER HERE

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Attention lenders: Consider having your title work done by friendly professionals at a locally owned and operated title company that has stood the test of time!

We offer complete, reliable title services in our conveniently located office in downtown Polson.

Western Montana’s Glacier Country recently launched a Destination Stewardship Plan to help balance increased visitation with the long-term health and vibrancy of Western Montana’s communities, natural resources and quality of life for residents. Lake County residents are invited to join us as we share details of this plan and gather input on challenges, opportunities and strategies for your community regarding visitors and tourism. Together we’ll identify actionable ways to enhance the region’s quality of life and foster economic sustainability.

We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and your clients!

LAKE COUNTY TOWN HALL IN RONAN Tuesday, February 13, 2024 • 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Ronan Community Center 300 Third Ave NW • Ronan, MT 59864

Montana Land Title Association and American Land Title Association Member

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314 First Street East • Suite 101 Polson, Montana 59860

(406) 883-6226 www.lctitles.com

Register online at glaciermt.com/townhall.

Visit glaciermt.com/stewardship for more information.

Valley Journal

February 7, 2024 - 23

Calendar

and dessert is $25. from page 23

Women” Fashion Show held at the Johnny Arlee/Vic Charlo Theater at 5 p.m. Empower your hear by elevating women’s wellness through the power of lifestyle. MC April Charlo and keynote speakers Karyn Thornton, PA-C and Rebekah Jarvey will will be part of the show. There will be an Indigenous Market from 5-8 p.m. All vendors welcome, no cost per table.

Contact Casey Sorrell at 406-4810121 for details.

Pachyderms to meet POLSON — The next Pachyderm meeting will be held on Friday, Feb. 9, at noon at the Polson Rural Fire Station. The speaker for this meeting will be Lake County Commissioner, Gale Decker. Commissioner Decker will provide updates on where the county stands with PL280 and other important updates as well as be available to answer any questions you may have. This meeting will be an important meeting for all of us to understand where we are able to get engaged with the county and help going forward.

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.

Participate in murder/mystery dinner POLSON — On Friday, Feb. 9, at 6:15 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.), “My Fatal Valentine”, an audience-participation murder/mystery will be held at the KwaTaqNuk. Dinner and the show is $40. Show 24 - February 7, 2024

Saturday, Feb. 10 Participate in murder/mystery dinner POLSON — On Saturday, Feb. 10, at 6:15 p.m. (doors open at 5:30 p.m.), “My Fatal Valentine”, an audience-participation murder/mystery will be held at the KwaTaqNuk. Dinner and the show is $40. Show and dessert is $25.

Sunday, Feb. 11 Participate in murder/mystery brunch POLSON — On Sunday, Feb. 11, at 10:30 a.m. (doors open at 10 a.m.), “My Fatal Valentine”, an audience-participation murder/mystery will be held at the KwaTaqNuk. Brunch and the show is $40. Show and dessert is $25.

Monday, Feb. 12 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.

Town hall meeting for Lake County planned RONAN — On Tuesday, Feb. 13, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Ronan Community Center, 300 Third Ave. NW, Lake County residents are invited to share details of Western Montana’s Glacier County Destination Stewardship Plan. The plan is to help balance increased visitation with the long-term health and vibrancy of Western Montana communities, natural resources and quality of life for residents. Come gather input on challenges, opportunities and strategies for your community regarding visitors and tourism. Register onine at glaciermt.com/townhall or visit: glaciermt.com/stewardship for more information.

Wednesday, Feb. 14 Library holds Grand Reopening Celebration POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will hold a Grand Reopening Celebration on Wednesday, Feb. 14, beginning with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9 a.m.

At this time the facility will be fully open and all services will be available. More details are forthcoming on their social media and website.

Library welcomes Linda Kittle to TAG POLSON — A 12:30 p.m. the Teen Advisory Council (TAG) will hold “Introduction to American Sign Language.” Special guest Linda Kittle will be there.

Library’s Youth Book Club to meet POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library’s Youth Book Club wants you to come get your free copy of “The Invention of Hugo Cabret” by Brian Selznick. The group will gather Wednesday, Feb. 28, at 3:30 p.m. to discuss the book.

vj Valley Journal

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.

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.

classifieds Announcements

Employment

Special Notices

Help wanted

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WATER RESOURCES SPECIALIST - DEWR COMPLEX – RONAN, MT - NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in hydrologic sciences or a closely related physical science field OR, a combination of education and experience including at least one (1) year of specialized experience that is related to the duties of this position. Knowledge of surface water hydrology, groundwater hydrology and practical applications in data collection and management; ability to take mathematical principles and apply them to water resources problems. Skills in use of analytical tools including spreadsheet analysis are required. Skills in statistical analysis, water budget analysis, and geospatial analysis are preferred. Ability to read and interpret a wide variety of instructions and procedures in oral and/or written form; to collect data, establish facts, draw conclusions, and define problems and recommend solutions, both orally and in written form. Possession of a valid State driver’s license with ability to obtain a Montana driver’s license within six (6) months. Must have liability or full coverage insurance on personal vehicle (if used to travel off-site in performance of duties). Must wear Tribal Government identification and safety apparel when conduct-

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 Switch to DISH and get up to a $300 gift card! Plus get the Multisport pack included for a limited time!

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Wanted WANTED TO BUY: Old Car, Truck, Motorcycle, also old signs and license plates, gas station items or dealership items. Call 406-2708630 any time.

ing field activities. Required to successfully complete a certified defensive driving course approved by the Department every three (3) years thereafter. FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal employment application, copies of relevant transcripts and/or certificates, a copy of a valid State 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 pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range is $23.94 to $27.52 - DOE. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal employment applications are also available online at csktribes.org. This position will close on Thursday, February 22nd, 2024 @ 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. HEALTHCARE RESOURCE ADVOCATE - (1 or more positions) - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT Re-advertised due to shortage of applicants The successful applicant must have a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in Social

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(1 OR MORE POSITIONS AVAILABLE) DEWR - WATER RESOURCES - RONAN, MT NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must possess two years of college coursework, or one year of college with a physical science background, or a high school diploma or equivalent and one year of experience in Natural Resource Data Collection.

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

FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copy of relevant transcripts, a copy of 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 pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range $19.86 to $22.83 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-6752700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, February 29th, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. SHORELINE ALCO 87A FIELD TECHNICIAN SHORELINE PROTECTION OFFICE NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT The Shoreline ALCO (Aquatic Lands Conservation Ordinance) 87A Field Technician is a full-time specialized technical position, responsible for inspecting and evaluating proposed construction projects within and around the Reservation waterways. see page 26

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

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Work, Medical or Business Administration or minimum of five (5) years’ increasingly responsible and relevant work experience including 2 years’ experience working with the RPMS data system. Valid and unrestricted driver’s license.

All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcripts, certifications, proof of state licensure, 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.

The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test, subject to random testing, and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period.

Salary is $19.89 - $22.87 per hour, plus benefits, may be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org.

The closing date will be Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

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Valley Journal

• 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 February 7, 2024 - 25

classifieds Help wanted cont’d from pg. 25 Responsible for land location and record searches pertaining to proposed projects.

The successful applicant is required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science or related Natural Resources field or equivalence in work experience with college coursework in public communications, law, wetland ecology, wetland rehabilitation design, plant identification, with experience in investigative evidence collection for research or law enforcement.

Must have experience in using Microsoft Office Suite program (Power Point, Word, Excel and Publisher). Must have a valid State driver’s license.

Ability to read and understand complex material such as detailed engineered designs, maps and landownership plats, regulatory policies and court cases. Able to operate and maintain ATVs, snowmobiles and off-road vehicles in inclement weather. Must have a proven high degree of skill in accurate mapping and aerial photo interpretation, precise oral and written communications, with skills in collection, preservation and presentation of such data pertinent to ALCO projects. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE INFORMATION BELOW WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. Applicants are required to submit a Tribal employment

application, copies of relevant academic transcripts and training certificates, a copy of valid state 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 pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period.

Salary is $19.61 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Tribal Personnel at (406) 6752700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, February 22, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. FITNESS SPECIALIST 1 or more positions ST. IGNATIUS, ELMO TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must have a high school diploma or GED. Prefer a 2 year degree in health related field. Two years’ experience in coaching, teaching fitness activities, working with the public in recreation or in a related field will be acceptable. Certification as a Group Fitness Instructor or Personal Trainer will be completed within 6 month of hire. Must have First Aid/CPR certification or obtain within thirty (30) days. Must have current valid driver’s license.

BO%GO FF 40 ENO DS 1/31

Must pass background investigation. 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 $17.68 - $20.32 per hour, plus benefits, may be employed under contract.

To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. CHILD & YOUTH TRAUMA

SERVICES COUNSELOR/ CASE MANAGER ONE OR MORE CONTRACT POSITIONS DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT The successful applicant is required to have a Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology or related field. Two years’ experience working with at-risk families and children to strength family systems.

Experience providing screening, case management and conducting support groups.

Past charges for child abuse, neglect, or sexual abuse will be investigated through the background and suitability determination process.

Must not be found guilty of two or more misdemeanors offenses, under federal, state or tribal law, involving crimes of violence, sexual assault, molestation, crimes against persons or children. Must not have any felony offense. Will be required to pass a criminal background and suitability check per PL 101-630 Indian Child and family violence protection act, cannot have any substantiated CPS referrals.

Will be required to report to supervisor in the event of any civil or criminal charges. No misdemeanor convictions in the past year, with the exception of traffic offenses. Traffic offenses cannot exceed three within the last two (2) years.

Must not be subject of current

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criminal investigation, which would include indictments.

Must not have had a driving under the influence of substances or a per se within the last two years. This position is a testing designated position (TDP) under terms and conditions of the CSKT drug testing program and implementing rules. This position is subject to a background check in accordance with Public Law 101-630, 25US Section 3201 and Public Law 101-647, 42USC Section 13031. The background check also includes child protective service checks and driving record checks. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, copy of academic transcripts/ training certificates, copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted.

FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy.

A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required prior to your placement in this position.

The successful applicant,

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if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary is $18.63 to $21.41 per hour with benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available on-line at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. K-8 Montana certified teacher at School District 64 for 2024-2025 school year.

Contact Jerry Hofer 406336-2638 or jerryhofer73@ gmail.com.

Real Estate Equal housing

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Montana Human Rights Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, see page 27

public notices age, familial status, physical or mental disability, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-free at 1-800-669-9777.

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

Public Notices Legals Legals William P. Williams IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864 Telephone: (406) 676-4470 Attorney for Personal Representative

bill@fgwilliamslaw.com MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOSEPH F. MCDONALD, Deceased.

Email: justin@polsonlegal.com Attorney for Personal Representative IN THE TRIBAL COURT OF THE CONFEDERATED SALISH & KOOTENAI TRIBES OF THE FLATHEAD RESERVATION, PABLO, MONTANA IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: RICHARD LEE ROY JOHNSON, Deceased.

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

Cause No. 23-0464-P NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Brandy Martin, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, c/o Kalmbach Law Office, PLLC, PO Box 249, Polson, MT 59860 or filed with the Clerk of the above Court.

Dated this 22nd day of December, 2023. /s/ Brandy Martin BRANDY MARTIN Personal Representative C/O Kalmbach Law Office, PLLC PO Box 249 Polson, MT 59860

District 30-2 to serve for a three (3) year term. The voting shall be by mail ballot election, with the election date of May 7, 2024. If the number of candidates filing for a position or filing a declaration of intent to be a write-in candidate under MCA 13-10-211 is equal to the number of positions to be elected, the trustees may give notice that an election will not be held. (MCA 20-3-313) February 7 and 14, 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.

January 24, 31 and Feb. 7, 2024 MNAXLP

Legal Notices are welcome.

Deadline is Friday at noon. email to: vjmail@valleyjourna.net

Feb. 7, 14 and 21, 2024 MNAXLP

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

2024 ELECTION RESOLUTION BE IT RESOLVED, the Board of Trustees for the Ronan/ Pablo Elementary School District No. 30 and the Ronan High School District No. 30, shall call for the election of one (1) trustee from District 30-1 and one (1) trustee from

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