4th grade homeschooler wins county spelling bee
By Joanna Hudorovich for the Valley Journal
ARLEE — Heidi
Huber, a fourth grade homeschool student from Bigfork, took first place at the Lake County Spelling Bee by spelling “anthropology” and “liturgy” correctly. Held in the old Arlee High School gym on Thursday, Feb. 6, the event marks the 60th Lake County Spelling Bee, and the 100th National Spelling Bee. Some 30 students, grades 4-8 gathered from all over the Valley to showcase their spelling skills in pursuit of victory.
Competition was fierce, as one-by-one, students stepped up to the microphone to spell words like “puniness,” “parroting,” and “onyx.” Twelve students were eliminated in the first round, and five more in the second.
Although Huber deservingly took first place, her homeschooling isn’t registered under the Scripts Institute, making
JOANNA HUDOROVICH PHOTO
Heidi Huber is the 2025 Lake County Spelling Bee champion.
her ineligible to compete at the state spelling bee in Bozeman. Second place winner, Apollonia Hall, a sixth grader from Charlo, will advance to state for the second year in a row. Hall won first place last year, in 2024 as a fifth grader and advanced to state competition. This year’s third place Lake County spelling bee winners had an impressive spell off, going many rounds, and ultimately ending in a tie.
Huber, this year’s champion, says she has been homeschooling almost her whole life, attending one year of public preschool. She said she prepared by studying a lot with her mom and using an app to practice.
“It sounded like a lot of fun,” she said. “I had never done a spelling bee before and I always like a challenge.”
Hands-on learning at Tech Day inspires future Orediggers
News from MT Technological University
BUTTE — It’s more than an eight-hour drive from Oroville, Washington, to Butte, Montana, but Montana Tech mining engineering sophomore Kylie Acord says it was worth traveling to campus for Tech Day to get a taste of the hands-on learning experiences and campus life the University offers.
“It was really fun,” Acord said. “I toured the Mining Engineering Department and the Electrical Engineering Department. I liked that instead of talking about their departments, they each had some sort of hands-on activity that related it to what they do. It helped me make my college decision. I was actually a part of the Montana Tech world for a little bit.”
Tech Day is a one-of-a-kind, hands-on college visit experience for prospective students. Students are invited to the main University campus in historic Uptown Butte, Montana, for a day of interactive laboratory breakout sessions, campus tours, and a chance to explore academic areas of interest. Spring Tech
Day 2025 will take place on Friday, March 7. Registration is now open.
The activities Acord experienced were exciting.
“For the Electrical Engineering session, we took little, tiny robots and programmed them to follow a line on a table,” Acord said. “For the Mining Engineering session, I set off a blasting cap in a little plastic box. I also used the VR (virtual reality) headset and simulated experiences with equipment.”
Acord says Montana Tech has delivered a hands-on experience that was true to what she expected based on her Tech Day preview. In her first year, she was able to take a class in the Underground Mine Education Center (UMEC). The UMEC is a hands-on, interdisciplinary educational space consisting of the former Orphan Boy and Orphan Girl Mines located immediately west of campus.
“It was a wonderful class that was super hands-on,” Acord said. “You get to see what it’s actually like to be in a mine and figure out if you are okay with working underground. You learn how to operate a drill, fix equip-
ment, safety protocols, blasting patterns, how to conduct an underground survey, and all sorts of other things.”
Acord is an engaged member of campus. She is a member of the Intercollegiate Mining Competition, the Women in Mining student chapter, and the Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration. In addition, she’s the first female teaching assistant to assist Dr. Scott Rosenthal in courses taught in the UMEC. In that role, she introduces students to mining engineering in an interactive way, not so different from her own first experiences at Tech Day.
“I help the new students learn how to run the drills, fix the drills, address any problems that happen down there, and emphasize safety,” Acord said.
Acord toured numerous colleges before choosing Montana Tech. Two years later, she’s sure she picked the right place for her.
“Montana Tech has a really strong family sort of feeling,” she said. “Everyone here is so welcoming and nice.”
Students who attend Tech Day can choose to participate in
2nd Chance Electronics, Helping Hands partner for technology access
page 1 Advertise in the 2025 Lake County Fair Book! Call 406-249-1793 to secure your spot today.
News from Helping Hands of the Mission Valley
POLSON - Colin Gruenfeld and 2nd Chance Electronics have donated 235x Chromebook Computers to our Helping Hands mission of empowering individuals and families. Colin is a lifelong sustainability-focused entrepreneur whose company works with schools, governments, and corporations, refurbishing and recycling over 35,000 computers since 2019.
- February 12, 2025
He and his company believe that access to technology and the Internet enables people to grow and represents “opportunity” for those who are ready to further their lives through education, commerce, and job-seeking.
If you or your family are in need of a Chromebook to stay connected, for educational purposes or to look for work, please contact us at Helping Hands to get these into your hands.
a variety of breakout sessions to get a full day of hands-on activities. Sessions available March 7 include: Business and Information Technology (BIT), Cadaver Dissection Lab, Computer Science and Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mathematical Sciences, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Mining Engineering, Nursing Simulation, Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), Petroleum Engineering, Prepare for College Panel and the Highlands College Campus Tour.
Prospective students can sign up for this year’s March 7 Tech Day event at: https://iam.mtech. edu/techdaydigital/inquiryform. If you have questions, please reach out to the Admissions Office at Montana Tech at: admissions@mtech.edu or 406496-4754.
Students interested in an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science programs, as well as certificate programs in the trades, may want to opt to attend Highlands College Exploration Day, which will take place on April 9, 2025. Registration will open in late February.
Advertise here!
This Week’s Weather Forecast
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Advertising Sales, Owner (406) 249-1728 boone@valleyjournal.net
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Winter storms improve snowpack conditions across most of Montana
News from NRCS
BOZEMAN — “Following a relatively warm and dry start to the snow accumulation season across most of Montana, the weather took a timely turn during the last week of December. Since then, much of Montana has received significant snowfall, however gains were not equivalent across the state,” said Eric Larson, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Hydrologist. Northwest Montana was an exception, receiving near normal precipitation mid-October through early December. Aside from several storms early in January, last month was relatively dry in that area. The region extending from the Sun-TetonMarias to the Kootenai only received 30-50% of normal January precipitation. In contrast, central Montana and the Bighorn Mountains were impacted much more by recent weather receiving over 190% of normal January precipitation. Southwest Montana and southcentral Montana received about 80-110% of normal January precipitation, with some higher elevation SNOTEL sites receiving slightly more than that. The snowpack is making gains during the first week of February across all of Montana as active weather continues to impact the region.
As of Feb. 7, the
Human skeletal remains discovered
mountain snowpack across most of Montana remains slightly below normal at around 80-90% of median, but there are exceptions.
The Smith-Judith-Musselshell basin is reporting a 120% of normal snowpack with most of that snow arriving since the last week in December. Several SNOTEL sites in the Little Belt and Big Snowy mountains received their largest January snow accumulation in 20 years. In contrast, the Sun-Teton-Marias and St. Mary currently have a 65-75% of normal
snowpack. Snow water equivalent deficits in that region are 2-7 inches; however, that could be recovered in a couple upslope storms aimed in the correct direction. Snowpack percentages in the Gallatin, Bighorn, and Tongue River basins are currently about 100% of normal and additional snow is forecasted over the next couple days. All other basins are reporting a snowpack about 80-90% of normal, except the Bears Paw near Havre. “Don’t forget, last year was one of the lowest snow years on record.
While recent snow conditions have been excellent for recreating, lack of early season snowfall left most of Montana with a deficit. Most mountain ranges are still recovering from that deficit,” said Larson.
Two to three months remain in the normal snow accumulation season and deficits that exist in many locations could be eliminated by several weeks of active weather. “Given the major weather pattern change experienced over the last month and half, the outlook that snowpack
conditions will continue to improve throughout the next month is good. However, if drier weather returns during February, part of Montana might be left with mountain snowpack deficits that will be difficult to overcome as spring approaches. The Rocky Mountain Front is one of those regions,” said Larson. During a typical year, 60-70% of the seasonal snowpack has accumulated by February 1. March 1 conditions will give a better indication of what spring runoff might bring.
BUFFALO BRIDGE
—
On Tuesday, Feb. 4, at about 10:15 a.m., the Lake County Sheriff’s Office was notified that a Tribal Game Warden had located skeletonized human remains in the Buffalo Bridge area on the Flathead River. Sheriff/Coroner Don Bell responded to the scene with other LCSO personnel, and it was confirmed that human remains had been discovered. The remains have been sent to the Montana State Medical Examiner for further investigation and identification. The case remains under investigation by Lake County Sheriff and Coroner’s Office.
COURTESY PHOTO
As of Feb. 7, mountain snowpack across most of Montana remains slightly below normal at 80-90% of median.
News from Lake County SheriffCoroner Don Bell
Governor calls for meaningful property tax relief
News from the office of Governor Gianforte
HELENA — During a press conference at the State Capitol, Governor Greg Gianforte today called for meaningful property tax relief for Montana homeowners.
“As you all know, my top priority this session is reducing the burden of rising property taxes on Montana homeowners and small businesses,” Gov. Gianforte said. “We must deliver meaningful relief for Montanans who live and work here. They’re counting on us to get this done this year, and we should.”
As proposed in his Path to Security and Prosperity, the governor advocated for the homestead rate cut which is projected to lower property taxes for Montana homeowners by 15% and small businesses by 18%.
The recommendation is a re-
sult of the governor’s bipartisan Property Tax Task Force and, according to estimates, will directly reduce property taxes for more than 215,000 primary residences, more than 32,000 small businesses, and provide indirect relief for over 130,000 renters.
Last week, the House Tax
Committee approved the homestead rate cut with bipartisan support and the bill is scheduled to be read for a second time on the floor of the Montana House of Representatives today. Thanking legislators for sharing his priority to deliver property tax relief for Montana
homeowners, the governor said, “I want to thank legislators in the House for prioritizing commonsense property tax relief and for moving it as quickly as possible.”
In addition to his proposals for property tax relief, Gov. Gianforte reiterated his priorities to deliver the largest income tax cut in state history and lower the rate most Montanans pay from 5.9% to 4.9%. The governor’s income tax cut proposal also boosts the earned income tax credit to benefit lower- and middle-income Montanans.
“Our proposed tax cut package provides permanent tax relief to Montanans at every income level – to workers, small business owners, and everyone who calls this place home. And we should keep the long-term horizon in focus because ultimately, my goal is to enact a permanently low, flat income tax,” the governor added.
Two new shows coming in March to Wachholz College Center
News from FVCC
KALISPELL — The Wachholz College Center is thrilled to announce two shows coming to the Flathead Valley in March. R.E.S.P.E.C.T., an electrifying homage to the legendary Aretha Franklin® will be live on March 8, and Step Afrika!, the world’s leading authority on the artform of stepping, is performing on March 26th.
R.E.S.P.E.C.T. invites audiences on a powerful journey through love, tragedy, courage and triumph,
showcasing the unforgettable life of Aretha Franklin through a stunning soundtrack of her iconic hits. This isn’t just a tribute concert; it’s a unique Aretha experience featuring beloved songs like “Natural Woman,” “Think,” “I Knew You Were Waiting for Me,” “Chain of Fools,” “Respect,” and many more. Stay connected with R.E.S.P.E.C.T. on Instagram (instagram. com/respectontour/) and Facebook (facebook. com/respectontour) or visit: RespectOnTour. com for more information.
Aretha Franklin® is a registered trademark of The Estate of Aretha Franklin.
Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities; traditional African dances; and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience. Performances are much more than dance shows; they integrate songs, storytelling, humor and audience participation. The blend of technique, agility, and pure energy makes each perfor-
mance unique and leaves the audience with their hearts pounding.
Step Afrika! has earned Mayor’s Arts Awards for Outstanding Contribution to Arts Education, Innovation in the Arts, Excellence in an Artistic Discipline, and was inducted into the National Association of Campus Activities (NACA) Hall of Fame, the first Dance Company to earn this honor. Step Afrika! headlined President Barack Obama’s Black History Month Reception and performed at the first ever
Lake County marriages, divorces for January
Marriages
Robert George Johnson and Patricia Elaine Stone
Christopher James Tenas and Darcy Shahana Rae Stidham
Liv Kya Peters and Tyler Lee Corum
Kiley Marie Melton and Ellie Lynn Dupuis
Katherine Elizabeth Haynes and Dale Edward Shear
Anna Marie Costa and Hank William Ready
Jaychelle Lyn Underwood and Raul Sanchez-Vazquez
Joshua Ray Allan and Derly Bibit Buclatan
Messiah Gardner and Kiirstyn Fairchild
Eugene John Thiel and Leonora Lopez Espiritu
Jack Jay Gilbraith and Brenda Lee Pearce
Divorces
Juneteenth Celebration at the White House. The Company is featured prominently at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture with the world’s first stepping interactive exhibit. Learn more about Step Afrika! At: www.stepafrika.org.
Tickets for both events are on sale now. Discounted tickets are available for seniors and teachers. For more information and ticket details, visit: wccmt. org or contact the WCC ticket office at 406-7561400.
William E. Dolon and Rebecca E. Dolon
Ervin J. Ramon and Agelita R. Ramon
Darryl Larson and Leslie A. Keenan
Christopher Hazen and Joanna M. Hazen (Cardenas restored)
Don Guthrie and Susie Guthrie
Matthew W. Fairchild and Kayla Fairchild (Denny restored)
Brian M. Palmer and Suzanne Palmer (Jackson restored)
Scott Crump and Morgan Crump
Richard T. Darnell and Sheanna M. Darnell
Brandon G. Bland and Kaylie N. Durglo
COURTESY PHOTO
Gov. Gianforte speaks at a press conference at the State Capitol.
Democrats call for criminal accountability for Senator Ellsworth
News from Montana State Democrats
HELENA — On Feb. 6, Senate Democratic Leader Pat Flowers moved to refer the ongoing ethics investigation into Sen. Jason Ellsworth to the Montana Department of Justice. Sen. Flower’s motion also suspended the Senate Ethics Committee’s work pending a decision by the Attorney General on the matter.
“At every turn, Democrats have tried to support an unbiased and impartial process to review the allegations against Senator Ellsworth. Our integrity as legislators is paramount. The Ethics Committee has alleged criminal offenses, and it is appropriate that we put Montana’s top law enforcement officer on the case. I’m looking forward to our senators returning to the important work that Montanans sent us here for,” said Sen. Flowers (D-Belgrade).
Sen. Flowers went on to say, regarding the motion itself, “Since day one, we have been working with a bipartisan coalition to accomplish our goals for the people of Montana. Our goals are property tax relief, renewing health care, and making Montana affordable again. We worked with that same coalition to put this legal matter in the hands of the proper investigatory authority so we can prioritize the work of the people.”
The motion was made after thorough consideration of the politicization of the ethics panel process, the time and energy senators were investing in the ethics panel, and the fact that the information being presented amounted to criminal accusations rather than fact finding. The motion to refer the Ellsworth legal matter to the Department of Justice passed 27-22 on the senate floor.
Application deadline for Smith River permits at hand
trip.
HELENA – Applications for a permit to float the Smith River will be accepted through Feb. 15. The permit drawing will be held soon after the deadline.
Permits are required to float the 59-mile section of river between Camp Baker and Eden Bridge and are issued each year through a lottery drawing. Parties of up to 15 people can float with one permit. A person applying for a Smith River permit must be a minimum of 12 years of age at the time they submit their permit application. There is no age restriction to participate on a Smith River float
Applicants can apply for a Smith River float permit online through the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Online Licenses Service, and pay a $15 nonrefundable permit application fee. Successful Smith River applicants will be notified via email shortly after the deadline.
Links within the notification email to successful applicants will allow them to download and print their float permit, as well as access important and detailed information regarding their Smith River float.
Results will also be available
S T . L U K E W E L C O M E S
Dr. Christina Marchion recently joined the dedicated team at St. Luke Community Clinic - Southshore in Polson. Offering full-spectrum family medicine and obstetrical care, Dr. Marchion is passionate about women’s and children’s health. Call today to schedule your appointment!
News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks
Glacier Park timed entry vehicle reservations open Feb. 13
Reservations required June 13 through Sept. 28, 2025
News from Glacier National Park
WEST GLACIER
— Glacier National Park reminds visitors that 120-day advance timed entry vehicle reservations become available on Recreation. gov starting Feb. 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. MT. This is a correction from a previous announcement that stated reservations would be released on Feb. 12. The correct date, Feb. 13, is exactly 120 days prior to June 13, the first day timed entry vehicle reservations are required.
A timed entry vehicle reservation is required from June 13 to Sept. 28, 2025, for the West Side of Going-tothe-Sun Road and the North Fork. Reservations can only be purchased on Recreation.
gov.
The entry time blocks for Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork will be in two-hour increments; 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can enter reservation areas at any time during the time block they have reserved
and can remain in the park for as long as they like on the day of their reservation. Visitors who miss their reserved time block can enter after 3 p.m.
Timed entry vehicle reservations will be available online through two booking windows. Starting Feb. 13, at 8 a.m. MT, a portion of reservations will open daily on a rolling basis 120 days, approximately four months, in advance. The 120-day advance booking window is ideal for people who need to plan their park visit in
advance to coordinate with other plans or services in the area. A second booking window, for next-day entry, will be available starting June 12, 2025, at 7 p.m. Next-day booking is a good option for people who are already in the local area or are more spontaneous with their plans.
Each of the specified areas of the park requires a separate reservation, which can be made at Recreation. gov or theRecreation. gov mobile app. Visitors must create an account
before booking and are encouraged to do so prior to the day reservations open. The cost associated with booking a reservation is a $2 Recreation.gov processing fee.
Visitors may also make a reservation through the Recreation. gov call center. Contacting the call center does not provide an advantage towards securing a reservation but provides an alternative for those who don’t have access to the internet or are not as familiar with technology. Call centers are
Feb. 13, 2025:
The table details when a portion of the 120-day rolling vehicle reservations will be released, beginning with Feb. 13, 2025:
*In June, it is likely only a portion of Going-to-the-Sun Road will be open. Check the park website for road status or sign up for text alerts.
open every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. MT and the processing fee remains $2. The following lines are available for callers:
Reservation line (Toll-Free) - (877) 4446777
Reservation line (International) - (606) 515-6777
Reservation line (TDD) - (877) 8336777
On the next page is a table detailing an example of when a portion of the 120-day rolling vehicle reservations will be released, beginning with
With limited amenities and services, the North Fork invites a more self-reliant visitor. The only services are outside the park entrance in the small community of Polebridge, which is accessible without a reservation. There is no cell phone coverage. A four-wheeldrive vehicle and the ability to change a tire are recommended, as flat tires are common on the unimproved roads inside the park. First come, first served camping for this area can be arranged at the Polebridge Ranger Station on the first day of the visit and do not require a timed entry vehicle reservation. Please do not make a reservation for the North Fork without thorough research of the area and full intentions of using the reservation.
As in 2024, visitors will be able to access Apgar Village, Two Medicine, and the East Entrance to Going-
see page 9
COURTESY PHOTO
from page 8
to-the-Sun Road at St. Mary without a timed entry vehicle reservation. While visitors can access Going-to-theSun Road from the St. Mary Entrance without a reservation, visitors should be advised that if they drive west through the Apgar checkpoint Apgar Village, they cannot reenter through the checkpoint driving east without a timed entry vehicle reservation for the appropriate time block or until after 3 p.m.
Like previous years, visitors with lodging, camping, transportation, or commercial activity reservations can access their intended service within the Going-tothe-Sun Road reservation area with proof of their reservation. Only commercial reservations that originate beyond the Apgar vehicle reservation checkpoint and west of Logan Pass will provide entry in place of a vehicle reservation. As a reminder, lodging, camping (including Fish Creek and Apgar campgrounds), and commercial activity reservations originating in Apgar will not provide access beyond the Apgar vehicle reservation checkpoint.
Due to extremely limited parking during construction in the Swiftcurrent area, the park will restrict personal vehicle access
into Many Glacier and provide a temporary shuttle service under a separate reservation system for a limited number of hikers to access Many Glacier and Swiftcurrent from July 1, 2025, to Sept. 21, 2025. Visit the Road Construction and Infrastructure Project Work page to learn more.
In addition to a timed entry vehicle reservation, each vehicle entering the park is required to have a entrance pass for any entry point into the park. These passes could include any of the following: a $35 vehicle entrance pass, good for seven days; a valid Interagency Annual/Lifetime Pass; or a Glacier National Park Annual Pass. A timed entry vehicle reservation does not include an entrance pass, and the park entrance pass does not serve as a vehicle
reservation. Pursuant to the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978, vehicle reservations are not required for tribal members throughout the park. As in past years, entry may be temporarily restricted in areas of the park that don’t require reservations, such as Two Medicine, if they become too congested for visitor safety and resource protection.
Visitors with commercial service reservations (e.g., boat tours, lodging, horseback ride, guided hikes) in these areas will be permitted entry during temporary restrictions. Sign up for text alerts to receive updates on temporary restrictions.
Parking at Logan Pass, Apgar Village, and other areas may be congested or temporarily unavailable. Visitors are encouraged to take ad -
vantage of free shuttles for hiker access to Logan Pass although waits for shuttles may be long depending on the time and location. Visitors are encouraged to check the park website frequently for updates and additional information.
When planning to visit Glacier National
*Date of Desired Reservation
June 13, 2025
June 14, 2025
June 15, 2025
June 16, 2025
June 17, 2025
June 18, 2025
Park, take time to consider your preparedness, skills, fitness and experience. No matter how you choose to recreate, be prepared to turn back when conditions change or if you are being pushed to your limits. Weather and conditions can change quickly in the park.
Before starting any trip, take time to explore the park’s website and plan ahead for a safer and more enjoyable visit. For more information visit the Glacier National Park website. vj
Date Reservation Can Be Booked
Feb. 13, 2025
Feb. 14, 2025
Feb. 15, 2025
Feb. 16, 2025
Feb. 17, 2025
Feb. 18, 2025
June 19, 2025 Feb. 19, 2025
Proud Community Partner
valley views
Victim or victor
Thislife provides challenges for all of us. They can be beyond difficult. And unexpected. And unfair.
Your marriage ends unexpectedly. Your spouse dies. You lose your job. You lose a parent or a sibling. Your best friend finds a new best friend. An accident upends your life. You struggle with infertility. You have chronic pain. You struggle with your health. Your doctor diagnoses you with the ‘C’ word.
And so on and so on and on and on.
It can be disheartening. Especially if you see it that way.
Life often sets us up to be the victim.
Circumstances go against what we’d hoped. Luck isn’t on our side. We lose more than we win. The rules seem to change. People who should be
letters
America lags behinds behind other G7 nations in health outcomes
Editor,
As recounted by Economist Roger Smith, (Jan. 21), the U.S. lags behind other G7 nations in many metrics of national wealth: poverty, incarceration rates, infant mortality, academic
loyal are not. Others who should be kind are cruel.
The world is cruel.
At face value, it is disheartening.
Oh heck, at any level it is disheartening. Life can be a bully sometimesoften times. Life will beat you up and spit you out, without remorse. Without caring about how you feel or how crushed your spirit might be.
To heck with you. What does any of it matter, anyway?
because facing the world seems like facing razor blades, remember one thing:
Slices of Life
Jill Pertler Syndicated columnist
The world may see you as a victim. You may feel like the victim. But: You do not have to be the victim. You are not the victim. Although the role of victim feels like it should be the default for much of life’s foibles, it is not. And perhaps the most telling word in that last sentence is “role.”
When you are the most downtrodden, when people and the world have cut you to your quick, when it seems everyone who should be supporting you has turned their back against you, when you want to stay in bed, under the covers all day long
You do not have to play the role of victim - despite what your circumstances might imply.
You do not have to accept the role of victim, and if you can sort of grasp this, you can change the whole mentality.
From victim to victor. It is yours for the taking.
Make lemonade out of lemons - we’ve all heard the phrase, and sometimes it’s a benefit to incorporate such colloquialisms into real life.
Much like making lemonade, this process is pretty simple. I’ve already alluded to the fact the the default is that of victim. But you are not the default! You are unique and one in a million. One in a billion!
What makes you think you are the default? Don’t sell yourself short. You can take a loss and make it a win. You take a liability and make it an asset. You take lemons and make limonchello (bypassing lemonade, because you are way beyond that!) Life is hard. I understand that. I know it firsthand.
But I also know that hard can be overcome and the only way to overcome
it is through your own mindset. Other people can define you as the victim, they will see you as the victim. But it is up to you - and only you - as to how you decide to see yourself.
What is a victor? A conqueror. A winner. Someone who ends up on top. Someone who deserves a word of congratulations.
Someone who does not let the world define them, but chooses to define themselves.
I also believe any victor has overcome adversaries and difficulties - battles even, because you can’t be a victor without conflict and struggles. It is those very struggles – and overcoming them, one breath at a time – that allow you to redefine yourself: from victim to victor.
It isn’t easy. But I will tell you one thing for certain. It is most definitely worth it.
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
performance, homelessness, and … health outcomes.
Why, given our dismal standing among developed nations, is the Montana legislature even considering eliminating expanded Medicaid? Yes, the sunset date for this program is 2025, and the hearing for HB 245 (continue Medicaid expansion) was positively received by the
House Human Services committee. This program serves 76,000 low-income Montanans and provides Montanan taxpayers significant savings, as the federal government picks up about 90% of the tab.
Yet, Senator Carl Glimm has sponsored SB 62 to phase out Medicaid expansion, perhaps echoing a disingenuous perspective
by Senate Majority leader Tom McGillvray, who noted “When I was younger, the novel idea for health insurance was get a job.”
Note to these gentlemen: 98% of Medicaid recipients are either working, care taking, in school, retired, or ill/disabled. Yet, complaints about the costs of Medicare and Medicaid typically come from those
advocating the loudest for tax breaks for the wealthy.
Dr. Smith is right. Our lack of investment in human capital will continue to result in our poor showing among our G7 brethren. Legislators, are you paying attention?
Caryl
Cox Polson
more letters on next page
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.
Grateful to enjoy tribal lands
Editor,
I have seen an ad in the Advertiser for several weeks now, recommending a book titled Tribal Tyranny. I have not read it so I am not aware of her issues, but based on the title, I feel it necessary to respond. I have lived on the Flathead Reservation since 1994. In my early years here, I was opposed to transfer of the Bison Range but later, as I gained more understanding of the reservation history, I realized it was the right thing to do. It was tribal land that they did not agree to sell. Consider any money paid for it as rent. The original inhabitants of America were here centuries before being invaded. The natives were soon outnumbered and with less resources. They had little choice but to agree to reservations. The
Salish understood they would be in their Bitterroot homeland but that was a deception. Then about 50 years later the government required 80-acre allotments as opposed to the common non-reservation homestead of double that size, and opened remaining land to homesteaders, again violating the treaty and changing their traditional way of life. The tribal bison were rounded up and sold to Canada. Children were taken from parents and sent to boarding schools, often mistreated and again changing a traditional way of life. Tribal Tyranny? We cannot change the past, but we must acknowledge past mistakes. I am thankful for the opportunity to walk on most tribal lands, fish, hunt birds and waterfowl, all for a small annual fee.
Curt Rosman Charlo
Nation needs to move in direction of healing
Editor,
A few years ago I was introduced to a book “The Ultimate Revolution” by Walter Starke, published in 1969. It helped me change my life as I seriously contemplated this portion of his writing I share here.
“This is a revelation to reveal the whole person. It won’t be won by logic alone. It won’t be won by anything alone. Faith without action won’t succeed. Action without logic won’t succeed. Logic without faith won’t succeed.”
Further, he talks about mystics referring to the third and fourth dimensions of life. The third is where we live as humans each day. The fourth is the spiritual realm which transcends the physical. Our human challenge is to live in the third while being
motivated by fourth dimensional awareness and action.
Personally, I have found this to be infinitely inspiring and meaningful in my life. I’m sure there are other such teachings available. Our nation and our world are challenging each of us to move our minds and our actions in the direction of healing, listening thoughtfully to each other and acting responsibly with love in our hearts.
Bob McClellan Missoula
Climate change and crop production in Montana
Montana’s agriculture sector has always been vulnerable to changes in climate, and generations of farmers and ranchers have proven their ability to adjust and prosper as conditions demand.
Current climate changes driven by rising greenhouse gas emissions, chiefly produced by burning fossil fuels, impact working lands. While rising temperatures and increasing spring and fall precipitation have benefitted some crop production, these climate trends pose challenges.
More days over 90oF have resulted in serious
Bruce Maxwell MSU Professor Emeritus Dept. of Land Resources & Environmental Sciences
Library celebrates one year in new building
Ican’t believe it’s been a year already. Where did the time go? We’re still moving in. Please join us on Friday, Feb. 14, as we celebrate our one-year anniversary in our beautiful building. We will have cake and punch (from a vintage recipe we found while moving out) and a drawing for a gift basket with library swag and a Joyful Cup gift card. The Joyful Cup will have drink specials along with their winter menu. This is a great time to stop in if you haven’t visited us yet.
View from the Library
Abbi Dooley, North Lake County Public Library District
Our children’s programming has had some major changes. We have added a brand new program, Toddler Time, on Thursdays at 10 a.m., have moved Mother Goose to Fridays at 10 a.m. and now offer two sessions of Story Time, Thursdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Our Youth Librarian, Julie, is having a wonderful time with all of these programs. Check our website for other youth programs available for tweens and teens.
Later this month our Digital
Services Specialist, Brycen, will be leaving us for an amazing career opportunity. We are currently hiring for the position. In the interim, the rest of our staff will do what we can to help with technology questions and problems. Just stop at the front desk or give us a call.
We are gearing up for a busy couple of months of adult programs. Be sure to visit our website, watch our social media and subscribe to our newsletter for all the details. Highlights this month include a program on fraud on Feb. 12 at 3 p.m. with Brycen and Police Chief George Simpson, as well as a book signing, and au-
thor talk with Chief Simpson on Feb. 28 at 5:30 p.m. This month is all about books for “I Love to Read Month.” The library’s annual Adopt-a-Book program is up and running with a great selection of children’s books. For a $15 donation you can choose a book and we will place a personalized message in it for you. We also have the ever popular “Blind Date with a Book” option back. Never to be missed is our Friends of the Library book sale on Feb. 21 and 22. You never know what treasures you’ll find. If you’d like to donate books for the sale, please bring them on Feb. 20.
The library and the Joyful Cup will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17 for President’s Day. Our regular hours are Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Joyful Cup Coffee and Tea is open Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Library Board meeting is Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 5:30 p.m. The last day to file for the trustee election is Feb. 10, at 5 p.m. at the County Election Office. Please call us at 406-883-8225 or email us at: polsonlibrary@northlakecountylibrary.org with questions. Visit our website at: www.northlakecountylibrary. org, for more information.
Climate Corner
from page 11
reductions in crop yields of Montana’s most important commodity crops. The flash drought of 2017–when a wet spring suddenly turned to extremely hot dry weather in June–was devastating for dryland wheat and barley grain yields. These events are likely to become more frequent with changing precipitation patterns. Montana experienced 13 drought periods and climate-driven weather events costing over $1 billion in damages between 1980 and 2024 (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).
Notwithstanding extreme events, rising winter low temperatures
may partly explain the increase in weeds, like cheatgrass, ryegrass, and jointed goatgrass, that impact wheat production.
Montana’s frost-free period has lengthened by 5 days per decade since 1980 and is projected to be a month longer by 2085. Longer growing seasons suggest the possibility of turning to higher value crops, like corn and soybeans, but they require a lot of water and more fertilizer and pesticide inputs. Corn and soybeans are largely used to feed confined livestock and to produce ethanol for cars, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
Eastern Montana’s sugar beet crop is particularly vulnerable to growing-season shortages of irrigation water and
untimely snow during harvest. In 2019, sugar beets were harvested in a snowstorm presenting challenges for processors and farmers because of reduced beet-storage longevity. Flathead cherry harvests in 1989, 1991, and 2024 were severely reduced by early onset of freezing temperatures.
Planning for future drought rather than short-term gain can avoid unwise investments in thirsty crops, irrigation infrastructure, fertilizers, pesticides, and other inputs.
Several actions can increase climate-change resilience. Rather than leave fields fallow, planting cover and other rotational crops increases soil organic matter and water storage that, in
turn, help commodity crops endure drought conditions. Planting drought-tolerant and fall-season crops takes advantage of new precipitation patterns, reduced groundwater supplies, and less water for irrigation. Crops that tolerate climate-driven weather events can reduce shortterm economic losses.
Woody plants that store carbon in roots and stems could be integrated into agricultural practices by planting windbreaks and tree crops. What role will Montana agriculture play in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions? Will we grow crops that maximize carbon fixation, reduce water use, and increase soil carbon? Will we continue to supply global
food needs in a rapidly changing future with multiple uncertainties?
Agricultural practice decisions are influenced by a range of historical factors including economics, past crop performance, equipment constraints, and local and global markets. Climate change will play an increasing role in selecting cropping practices. Success will depend on: (1) our ability to change crops to more drought-tolerant varieties and species; (2) increased farmer flexibility; (3) incentive programs that adopt carbon-storing practices; (4) marketing the nutritional value of current and new crops to produce more food per unit area; and, (5) decreased reliance on
expensive fertilizers and pesticides.
Montana family farms and ranches operate near the economic margin as it is, so increasing costs to maintain current production with inputs and a reliance on insurance are not long-term solutions. Farmers and ranchers will face difficult decisions in the coming decades. Adaptability and mitigation planning in the agriculture sector depend on having timely information that will guide long-term climate-related solutions.
Bruce Maxwell is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Land Resources & Environmental Sciences at Montana State University.
Hunters help FWP collect most CWD samples since testing began
News from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks submitted 9,066 samples for chronic wasting disease testing in 2024-2025 hunting season to date. This is the largest number of CWD samples ever to be collected in a single year in Montana. Many of these samples were collected by hunters themselves. Of those samples, 335 tested positive for the disease, including 202 whitetailed deer, 127 mule deer and six elk.
“We’re very excited about the number of samples we collected this season,” said Wildlife Health Program Biologist
Bevin McCormick. “Hunters are a huge part of CWD surveillance and monitoring, and we thank everyone who had their animals sampled this year.”
More than 4,521 samples were submitted from FWP’s 2024 priority sampling areas, which included southwestern, central and central-eastern Montana. FWP asks hunters who harvest a deer, elk or moose in these areas to voluntarily submit their animal for sampling.
Hunters are a vital part of CWD monitoring and management in the state. Hunters can visit FWP offices and CWD sampling stations to have their samples collected
or they can collect and submit their samples themselves. This year, approximately 1,138 samples were collected and submitted by hunters themselves. They sent their samples through the mail or dropped off the samples at one of the check stations.
Samples are collected by removing the retropharyngeal lymph nodes and sending them to the FWP Wildlife Health Program in Bozeman so they can be prepared for testing at the Montana Veterinary Diagnostic Lab. These lymph nodes are where much of the infectious protein first accumulates in infected animals.
The data collected helps
FWP identify where CWD is, estimate its prevalence and update its management strategies. These strategies sometimes include increasing total tags or either sex/antlered tags in certain CWD-positive hunting districts, with the goal of reducing herd densities.
Since 2017, when CWD was first discovered in the wild in Montana, FWP has tested an estimated 51,556 samples statewide.
CWD is a fatal disease that can affect the nervous system of deer, elk and moose. Transmission can occur through direct contact between animals or through contact with bodily fluids of infected animals, including urine, feces, saliva and
blood. Carcasses of infected animals likely serve as a source of environmental contamination, allowing animals that come into contact with them to also become infected.
There is no known transmission of CWD to humans; however, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that hunters who harvest an animal in an area where CWD is known to occur have their animal tested. If the animal tests positive, the CDC advises against eating the meat.
Although the main sampling season is over, FWP will continue to collect samples from animals throughout the year.
Conservation leases gaining steam in Montana
News from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
HELENA - When the Habitat Conservation Lease Program started two years ago, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks set a goal of conserving 500,000 acres within five years. With the recent completion of 13 leases and the potential for 33 proposed leases now under consideration, FWP is nearly halfway to reaching that goal.
“We are really pleased with how it’s going,” said FWP Wildlife Division Administrator Ken McDonald. “Since it’s a new program, it was a little slow to start. But after two rounds of the proposal process, there seems to be a growing interest among landowners.”
A habitat conservation lease is a voluntary agreement between a landowner and FWP. In exchange for following specific land management practic-
es, a landowner receives a onetime payment based on the number of acres enrolled in the program. The landowner must also allow a certain number of wildlife-related recreation days, including hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing. The access part of the agreement is developed in concert with the
Celebrate
the Great Backyard Bird
landowner and based on the size of the property.
A habitat conservation lease differs from a conservation easement in that the lease agreement is a 30- to 40-year contract opposed to the permanent commitment of an easement.
“It provides an option for
Count
at
Flathead Lake State Park
BIGFORK — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks invites the public to enjoy birding activities in conjunction with the Great Backyard Bird Count at the Wayfarers Unit of Flathead Lake State Park, 8600 Mt. Hwy 35, Bigfork.
The Great Backyard Bird Count of 2025 is one of the largest citizen science projects in the world every year. Flathead Lake State Park in Bigfork is hosting a weekend-long event of birding from Friday, Feb. 14 to Monday, Feb. 17.
Visitors are invited to engage in self-guided birding for the entire weekend and record their sightings using the Merlin Bird ID or eBird app on their phones.
Anyone looking to get involved without using their phone, please pick up a free field guide and checklist at the Wayfarers Ranger Station.
For kids, an obstacle course will be set up in the field near the campground. New to birding? Meet at the ranger station to learn the basics with a ranger-led guided hike on Friday, Feb. 14, from 9-11 a.m. and Saturday, Feb. 15, from 9-11 a.m.
Participants can bring their own binoculars or borrow a pair at the park. Call the ranger station to secure a spot: 406-8373041. Please bring/wear weather appropriate clothing and water.
Learn more online at: https://fwp. mt.gov/stateparks/wayfarers.
landowners who are reluctant to commit to a permanent easement, which often are easier to get support for with landowners and result in more habitat conservation and public access,” said FWP Director Christy Clark.”
The current conservation focus of the program is on prairie habitats such as sagebrush grasslands, mixed-grass prairie and intact wetland habitats. FWP considers these areas as having significant wildlife and conservation value, McDonald said.
FWP issues calls for habitat conservation lease proposals twice a year – in the spring and in the fall. A proposal must meet several criteria, including the amount of intact habitat.
Local FWP staff work with landowners on the specifics of proposals, including habitat requirements, conservation objectives, and access agreements.
If the proposal passes the initial criteria, FWP will put it out for public comment. The final approval for a conservation lease will be made by the Fish and Wildlife Commission, or the Montana Land Board, if applicable. The entire process takes between six and nine months.
“Our focus is on giving landowners more tools to conserve habitat,” Clark said. “With so much important wildlife habitat in Montana located on private land, conservation takes a joint effort between FWP and private landowners. Conservation leases are a great tool we can focus on to meet this common goal.”
For more information on FWP’s Conservation Lease Program, go to: fwp.mt.gov/ conservation/habitat/habitat-conservation/lease-program.
FVCC
announces Fall 2024 Dean’s List
News from Flathead Valley Community College
KALISPELL — Flathead Valley Community College officials have announced the names of students who made the Dean’s List for the Fall 2024 semester. The following students are listed in alphabetical order by their home communities and completed at least 12 credits last semester in courses numbered 100 or above and earned a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.5:
Charlo: Bennan P. Andersen, Wesley S. Anderson
Plains: Abigail A. Wessely,
Polson: Mallory J. Hilmo, Layne K. Zimmerman
Rollins: Heather A. Ross
St. Ignatius: Patricia Goulding
COURTESY PHOTO
News from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
briefs
Page Turners Youth Book Club meets
POLSON - The North Lake County Public Library’s Page Turners Youth Book Club will meet on Wednesday, Feb. 19, from 4– 5 p.m. This month’s selection is “Rascal” by Sterling North. We’ll want to hear your thoughts at the meeting. We have social time, games, discussion and snacks.
seniors
By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal
- AARP
Tax Preparation Assistance registration begins now. You must make a reservation. Available appointment times begin at 10 a.m. and go until 3 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays only. A full-time or part-time Executive Assistant/ Nutrition Director is
wanted at the Polson Senior Center. Apply at the center. Work is weekdays only and wage is D.O.E. ($16-$25) and negotiable. Activities:
- Bowling: “no-tap” Tuesdays 1-3 p.m. Join any time.
- Carving Wood for beginners: Wednesdays & Fridays at 1 p.m. Join any week.
- Wednesday Play Day: cards, board games, dominoes, Yahtzee, etc. Invite a foursome.
Mending Broken Hearts healing modality held
POLSON - On Monday evenings beginning Feb. 17 until March 24, the Native-led and Native-based healing modality focused on creating an action plan to heal will take place from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Fun and Fancy Free Learning Center in Polson. You must attend all six sessions. Dinner and childcare will be provided. Register at: familiesfirstmt.org.
- VSO (Veterans Service Officer:) first Friday and third Tuesday of each month - 9 a.m.-noonwalk-ins OK - Spinning Wheelers: first Tuesday of each month (March 5) 11 a.m.-1 p.m. - 208-5201013
- Bingo: Fridaysopen 5:30 p.m., play at 6 p.m.; “Playing-Card” bingo Wednesday, March 6 - Exercise: sitting
Attend free ‘Aquatic Invasive Species’ event
CHARLO - The free Mission Valley Conservation Speaker Series for winter ’25, “Aquatic Invasive Species,” will be held at the Ninepipes Lodge in Charlo on Wednesday, Feb. 19, at 6 p.m. This free educational event is open to the public. Email: LakeCD@macdnet. org for more information.
or standing or dancing, M-W-F, 10:30–11:30a. - video-assisted - low impact
- Pinochle: Thursdays and Mondays: 12:15 p.m.3 p.m. We play 3, 4 or 5 handed. Late arrivals OK.
- Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Menu (subject to change): lunch $5 donation - served from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Thursday, Feb. 13:
chicken pot pie, biscuit, 5-cup salad, peach cobbler - Friday, Feb. 14: barbecue ribs, baker, Harvard beets, strawberry pretzel salad, red velvet cake - Monday, Feb. 17: potato soup, log cabin biscuit, pasta salad, cherry dessert
- Tuesday, Feb.18: sweet-sour meatballs, rice, stir-fry veggies, coleslaw, fluff
- Wednesday, Feb. 19:
chicken Alfredo, pasta, mixed veggies, roll, green salad, raspberry bars - Thursday, Feb. 20: pork chops, stuffing, gravy, peas, jello-cuke salad, bread pudding Our Community Center is located at 504 Third Ave. E. We are open 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. weekdays. Call us at 406-883-4735. Email: polsonseniorcenter@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook!
Polson
sports SPORTS SHORTS
Basketball
Polson girls
WHITEFISH — The Polson Lady Pirates lost a close battle on the hardwood Feb. 6 to the Whitefish Lady Bulldogs, 46-43. The Lady Pirates led by two points at the half 24-22. They added 8 more points in the third quarter to which Whitefish responded with 7. The Lady Bulldogs pulled away in the fourth quarter scoring 17 points to the Lady Pirates’ 11 and sealing the win. Rylee Taylor-Jefferson was top scorer for the Lady Pirates with 21 points.
The Lady Pirates also fell to the visiting Browning Lady Indians on Feb. 8, 60-39. Polson led at the half by one point, 18-17, but struggled responding to Browning’s 25 points in the third, scoring 9. The Lady Indians put up 18 more in the fourth to Polson’s 12. Aleysia Black led the Lady Pirates with 14 points on the night, followed by teammate Rylee Taylor-Jefferson with 10.
Ronan girls
COLUMBIA FALLS — The Ronan Maidens lost a game to the Columbia Falls Wildkats, 50-40 on the road Feb. 7. The Wildkats took the lead in the first quarter and never looked back, holding the lead at the half 28-16. Kailyn Marengo led the Maidens with 14 points in the loss.
The Ronan Maidens defeated the Libby Lady Loggers on their homecourt Feb. 8, 62-27. The Maidens jumped out to a quick lead 13-5 in the first and then scored another 20 points in the second quarter to lead 33-10 at the half. The Maidens scored another 29 points in the second half to which Libby only answered with 17. Ronan Maiden Kailyn Marengo led her team with 21 points in the win.
BOB GUNDERSON / GUNDY ARTISTRY PHOTOS
Top left: Polson Pirate basketball player Jesse Vail goes in for a layup during a Feb. 8 home game against the Browning Indians.
Top right: Polson Lady Pirate Rylee Taylor-Jefferson puts up two points in a game against the Browning Lady Indians.
Left: Aleysia Black makes a layup during a Feb. 8 game with Browning.
Smith River applications
online at MyFWP. Those who receive a permit will be contacted by phone two days prior to their scheduled launch date to complete the registration process, which includes declaring boat camps and paying the appropriate float fees.
In addition to the permit drawing, the public may purchase as many $5 Super Permit chances as they wish. Montana State Parks issues one Super Permit each year through a separate lottery. The recipient of the Super Permit will be allowed to launch on any date of their choosing for that float season.
The opportunity to purchase chances for the Smith River Super Permit will be available until April 1. The Super Permit drawing will take place soon after that. Super permit chances may be purchased online through FWP’s Online Licenses Service.
As a reminder, all float parties, private and commercial, will be required to pack out their human waste from the Smith River corridor, and floaters will need to pack portable toilet systems. To see a list of FWP-approved, portable, hard-sided toilets that will be allowed click here. Alternative waste disposal systems, including bag systems, such as Clean Waste and RESTOP2, will not be allowed. Floaters can clean and sanitize their portable toilet system with a SCAT (Sanitizing Containers with Alternative Technology) machine, which has been installed at the Eden Bridge take-out.
For more information about Smith River State Park visit: stateparks.mt.gov/smith-river/
UM Research: Reforestation needs in the West to double by 2050
By Emily Senkosky, UM News Service
MISSOULA — Two recent University of Montana studies are demystifying how increasing wildfires and hotter annual temperatures limit forest regeneration in the Western U.S., revealing that our capacity to plant trees can’t keep pace with reforestation needs.
The first UM study was led by Solomon Dobrowski, a researcher in the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation. He found that between1984 and 2021 severe fires across the Western U.S. created 5.9 million acres of reforestation needs – a quarter of which was created by just 20 large wildfires since 2000. As the Earth warms and the fire season becomes longer and more severe, the findings project these reforestation needs could double or even triple by 2050.
“Forests in the Western U.S. are contending with a lethal combination of severe fires that kill existing trees, coupled with increasingly inhospitable post-fire conditions that limit tree regeneration,” Dobrowski said.
“If we want to maintain the forests we know and love, we will need to get serious about scaling reforestation efforts.”
While severe fires create large areas in need of reforestation, a warming climate simultaneously limits a forest’s ability to regenerate on its own. The second study, led by Rocky Mountain Research Station scientist Zach Holden with Dobrowski as a coauthor, shows that 13% to 20% of existing forested areas
“
If we want to maintain the forests we know and love, we will need to get serious about scaling reforestation efforts.”
- Solomon Dobrowski, researcher, W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation
in the Western U.S. are subject to soil surface temperatures that exceed the thermal thresholds for conifer seedlings to grow. As tree overstories dwindle due to wildfire, larger areas are left unshaded and exposed, increasing soil temperatures and subjecting forests to regeneration failure.
“This means that relying on natural regeneration or tree planting may not be enough as the soil itself may be too hot for seedlings to successfully develop,” Holden said.
Historically, investments into timber and fiber industries helped to meet post-fire reforestation needs. However, a 50-year decline in these economies has resulted in a
cumulative shortfall of about 3.8 million acres of unmet reforestation needs. Dobrowski said this growing cadence of wildfires is creating a gap between reforestation needs and the capacity of land managers to fill those needs.
Drought, warming and human use are exacerbating the issue. The immediacy of this phenomenon has spurred federal funding for this research led by UM forest scientists, with multiple related projects supported by the National Science Foundation, NASA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Dobrowski said a key challenge to reversing the deforestation trend will be
developing reforestation infrastructure like greenhouses and seed nurseries that can respond readily to the yearto-year variability of area lost due to wildfire, while still being agile enough to be maintained long-term. The study suggests new economic drivers that modernize and incentivize tree planting efforts could use conservation financing to expand the reforestation pipeline and promote wildfire-resilient landscapes.
“To improve the pace of the reforestation pipeline, the research underscores the need for a wider range of actions, such as increased public and private partnerships, as well as leadership and innovation,” Dobrowski said.
Innovative reforestation approaches such as the use of climate-adapted seed zones, increased diversity of tree species and fire-resistant planting patterns could better ensure the resilience of our forests into the future, he said.
COURTESY PHOTO
Wednesday, Feb. 12
‘Air, Water, Earth, Fire’ art show at Sandpiper Gallery
POLSON - The Sandpiper Art Gallery & Gifts’ “Art, Water, Earth Fire” art show runs until March 14. The gallery is located at 306 Main Street. Also on display are Polson High School’s talented young artists’ artwork.
Fraud & Scam Prevention Course held
POLSON - On Wednesday, Feb. 12, from 3-4 p.m. in the North Lake County Public Library’s Community Room, Chief George Simpson of the Polson police department and the library have designed a course to help our community recognize, avoid, and respond to common scams and fraud attempts. This event is free and open to all.
Young Child Wellness Council to meet
PABLO - The Young Child Wellness Council meets the second Wednesday of each month at noon in the Depoe Building of the SKC campus. Lunch is provided. This is a diverse group discussing projects and ideas that support healthy families, community wellness. All are welcome.
Free meditation classes offered
ZOOM - Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. Join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. for an online meditation class led by Zen Teach-
extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net
er, Zenku Jerry Smyers. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847-721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@ gmail.com.
Thursday, Feb. 13
Lake County Conservation District holds meeting
RONAN - The regular monthly board meeting of the Lake County Conservation District will be held on Thursday, Feb. 13, at 6:30 p.m. at 64352 US Highway 93. Meetings are open to the
public and agendas may be found at: LakeCountyConservationDistrict.org.
Join Business Pulse event
POLSON - On Thursday, Feb. 13, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the KwaTaqNuk Resort, a tourism and prosperity summit will be held. Learn expert tourism insights, 2025 Chamber initiatives, local business marketing, engage and network with local businesses. All are invited to attend this free event.
Mission Valley Choral Society practices begin
POLSON - Practices
begin for the Mission Valley Choral Society Spring Concerts on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 7 to 9 p.m., at the First Presbyterian Church in Polson. Anyone who enjoys singing is invited to join the choir. For information contact 406-261-3304 or 406-260-6103; or check out the MVCS website missionvalleychoralsociety. org or Facebook page.
Learn about MT restricted districts in the past
POLSON - On Thursday, Feb. 13, from 6:30-8 p.m., the North Lake County Public Library is cohosting another Montana
Library Network Program: “Western Montana’s Restricted Districts, 1870-1940.The presenter is Sophia Etier. You must register to get the link. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/ RestrictedDistricts.
Library holds ‘Toddler Time’ and ‘Story Time’
Friday, Feb. 14
Pachyderms to meet
POLSON - We will hold our Feb. 14 Pachyderm meeting at the Polson Rural Fire Station at noon. Our guest speaker will be paralegal Pascal Redfern, who has been actively involved with the Water Compact.
Library celebrates one year in new building
POLSON - On Friday, Feb. 14, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.: The North Lake County Public Library is celebrating one year in their beautiful, renovated building. Join us for refreshments and enter our drawing for a gift basket.
MV Live presents Kate Voss, Hot Sauce
POLSON - Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Kate Voss and the Hot Sauce, a true variety band, playing jazz, blues, pop, country, western-swing, oldies, Americana and rockabilly. The performance takes place at Polson High School on Friday, Feb. 14, at 7 p.m. Single tickets are $15 at the door. Advance tickets are $13 available at First Interstate Bank in Polson and Ronan True Value in Ronan. Youth 18 years and younger are free.
Final day to apply for Polson Scholarships
POLSON - Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation, established in
POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will hold two programs for little ones on Thursdays. At 10 a.m. “Toddler Time,” a program for 2-3 year olds that is all about movement will be held. At 2 p.m.” Story Time” a program for 3-5 year olds that includes stories and activities for kindergarten readiness will be held.
MARTIN HENSEL PHOTO
A formidable hunter, this red-tailed hawk scans the area ready to snatch a meal.
Calendar
from page 18
2002, encourages students to apply for scholarships by the deadline of Feb. 14. Go to: https://www.polson.k12. mt.us/polson-high-school/ academics/psef/ ‘
‘Go Red for Women’
POLSON - On Friday, Feb. 14, at the KwaTawNuk Resort, join Tribal Health for a day full of sessions dedicated to the annual “Go Red for Women.” Rise and Shine Yoga starts the day at 8:45 a.m. Register online by 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, at: https://form.jotform. com/243336765374060 On-site registration ends at 2 p.m. Feb. 14.
FLIC coming to Polson
POLSON - Mark your
calendar for the weekend of Feb. 14-16 for the 13th annual winter film festival at Showboat Stadium, 416 Main Street.
Mother Goose held at library
POLSON - Mother Goose is held at the North Lake County Public Library on Fridays at 10 a.m. in the Community Room. This program is for 0-24 month olds.
Saturday, Feb. 15
Valentine’s Day dance held
POLSON - Tribal health is holding a Valentine’s Dance on Saturday, Feb. 15, from 5-7 p.m. at the Polson Indian Senior Center, 701 First Ave. E. For
more information, email: kayla.ridgley@cskthealth.org
Join Business Pulse Event
POLSON — The Polson Chamber of Commerce announces the second Business Pulse event on Saturday, March 15. This free event is designed to foster meaningful connections among Polson’s businesses. and eld from 9 a.m. to noon at New Life Church of Polson, 1414 2nd St W. To register visit: www.B2BPolson.com.
Saturday ‘Story Time’ held
POLSON - On Saturdays at 2 p.m. we are adding a Story Time.
Bookfest Club to meet
POLSON — On Satur-
day, Feb. 15, at 10 a.m. the Bookfest Club will meet at the North Lake County Public Library to discuss “The Blue Castle” by L.M. Montgomery. Stop by the front desk or call 406-8838225 to sign up.
Monday, Feb. 17
Learn Co-parenting
ZOOM — CSKT’s Early Childhood Services and Youth Connection invite you to “Children In Between,” a co-parenting program for divorcing and separating parents via ZOOM on Feb. 17 and 24, from 6-8 p.m. Call and reserve your spot at 406-883-0153 or 406745-4509.
public meetings
The Polson City Commission meets every first and third Monday of the month (Wednesday, if the Monday falls on a holiday) at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 106 1st Street East. Meetings are open to the public.
St. Ignatius City Council meets the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 12 First Ave. 406- 745-3791
Ronan City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m., 207 Main Street SW, Ste A. 406-676-4231
Lake County Commissioners , 106 Fourth Ave. E, room 211, (Lake County Courthouse) 406-883-7278, Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
The Lake County Conservation District , 64352 US HWY 93, Ronan, meets monthly on the second Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are open to the public and agendas may be found at LakeCountyConservationDistrict.org.
The Ronan School District No. 30 Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled board meetings once a month. They meet the second Monday of every month in the K. William Harvey Elementary Multi-Purpose Room. Regular meetings begin at 7 p.m.
The Polson School District No. 23 Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled board meetings once a month. Meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the District Office, 111 4th Ave. E, 406-883-6345.
The Charlo School District 7J B Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled meetings on the third Thursday of every month. Meetings are held in the school library, 404 1st Ave. W, and begin at 7 p.m. The phone number is 406-6442206.
The Arlee School District No. 8 Board of Trustees hold regularly scheduled meetings on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Arlee High School Library, 72220 Fyant Street, and begin at 6:30 p.m. The phone number is 406-726-3216.
Valley View Elementary is located at 42448 Valley View Road. The phone number is 406-8832208.
St. Ignatius School District No. 28 Board of Trustees meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the library, 76 Third Avenue. The phone number is 406-745-3811.
PUZZLES
Announcements
Special Notices
BYOB
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Employment
AG/RANGE LEASING TECHNICIAN/ TRAINING TO SPECIALIST TRIBAL LANDS DEPARTMENT
The successful applicant is required to have a high school diploma or equivalent, with training or education in realty or some other land-related field. Possession of, or eligibil-
ity for, a valid Montana Motor Vehicle Operator’s license and be insurable under the Tribes’ insurance policy. Federal background check for access to the BIA TAAMS (Trust Asset Accounting Management System) and be willing to attend all required trainings in the TAAMS system. Basic knowledge of land description and location techniques. Basic knowledge of land record filing systems used in the realty field. Basic knowledge of leasing practices and procedures. Basic knowledge of Federal, State, and Indian Law. Basic knowledge of conservation practices, construction and building requirements. Working knowledge of contract management and records management. Skill in software program experience including Microsoft, Excel, and Access. Skill in operating office equipment, including computers, scanners, calculators and copy machines. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript and/or training certificate, copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference a copy
of DD214 must be submitted. Salary range is $24.46 to $28.11 per hour including benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www. csktribes.org. Closing date will be Monday, March 3, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. 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. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER
FARM & RANCH HAND wanted full-time, near Peerless, Montana. Housing available. Call 406-724-7099.
K-8 teacher, 2025-2026 school year. Mountain View Elementary. Starting bonus, competitive saalary. Call 406-336-2638 or email jerryhofer73@gmail.com.
ATTENTION TREE PLANTERS NEEDED 2025 SPRING TREE PLANTING JOB OPPORTUNITY Tribal and Non-Tribal
Members. Experience appreciated, No Experience-must be willing to learn.
Work up to 8 weeks AprilMay, Monday-Thursday. 10 hours per day. MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER.
Rate of Pay: $17 per hour
EACH INDIVIDUAL EMPLOYEE MUST FILL OUT APPLICATION AT TRIBAL FORESTRY BUILDING ON OR BEFORE March 17, 2025:
Tree Planting Application W-4 Form
MW 4 Form (MT Tax) 1-9 Form
Beneficiary Designation Form for final salary check.
Emergency Notification Form REQUIRED- PLEASE BRING TWO FORMS OF IDENTIFICATION:
Driver’s License, Tribal ID, Social Security Card, Birth Certificate. Applications are available at the CSKT Tribal Forestry Building, 104 Main St. SE, Ronan, MT 59864 (406) 676-3755
Reforestation Forester: Randy Finley ext. 6010
https://donorbox.org/montana-newspaper-foundation-charitable-giving.
Staff Support Specialist: Charlene Charlo, ext. 6030
The preference for hiring will be in the following order:
1. Enrolled members of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes
2. First generation descendant of enrolled CSKT members, must provide documentation
3. Any Tribal member who is an enrolled member of an Indian Tribe, Band, Group Pueblo or Community that is recognized by the Federal State Government as eligible for services from the Bureau of Indian Affairs and any “Native” as defined in the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, 18 years or older, enrolled members of other Tribes must have Tribal Identification or Certification of Indian Blood (CIB) Documentation present at the time of hiring.
4. Non-Native American. Planters will be required to plant in all weather conditions including rain, wind, and snow. Work sites may be steep and treacherous with mud and down woody debris. Must wear appropri-
ate work attire for all weather conditions. Transportation to worksites from CSKT Tribal Forestry Building will be provided.
Real Estate
Equal housing
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Montana Human Rights Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, familial status, physical or mental disability, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing
custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-free at 1-800669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.
Legals Legals
William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC
Attorneys at Law 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864
Telephone: (406) 676-4470
Attorney for Personal Representative
bill@fgwilliamslaw.com
MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JEANNINE MARIE JACKSON, Deceased.
CAUSE NO. DP-25-3 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 MARK W. JACKSON , 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 22nd day of January, 2025.
/s/ Mark W. Jackson
MARK W. JACKSON, Personal Representative
Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and 12, 2025 MNAXLP
Puzzle Answers
Solution to Word Search
Request for Quote: Planting Contract Spring 2025
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are solicitating quotes for reforestation planting contract of the Elmo Salvage, Spring 2025 Planting Season. This Burned Area Emergency Rehabilitation (BAER) reforestation planting contract requires proper plantings of 165,135 conifer seedlings within 545 acres. There will be 3 contracts that are request for quote. The first will be 184 acres, the second will be 172 acres, and the third will be 189 acres.
The Elmo Salvage Spring 2025 planting quote submission window will close March 18th , 2025, at 9:00 am.
This advertisement is to serve the general requirements and details for the proposed planting contracts. For all competitors to submit a complete proposal package for planting contracts; review contractor requirements and details, and/or to request contractor checklist for guidance, please call Linden Plant, Forest Development Manager at CSKT Forestry (406) 676-3755 ext.6020 or Randy Finley, Reforestation Forester at CSKT Forestry (406)-676-3755, ext.6010. Electronic file available upon request by emailing linden.plant@cskt.org or Randy.Finley@cskt.org
All competitors are proposed to make your own independent estimate of sowing and filling conditions to de -
termine your appropriate decision. A contract competitor must be prepared to assume full responsibility for the success of the operation under the terms of the contract at the prices bid. If the wording of this notice disagrees with the contract, the contract is final and binding.
THIS IS A SEALED, INDIAN PREFERENCE REQUEST FOR QUOTES, HOWEVER ALL CONTRACTORS, TRIBAL AND NON-TRIBAL, ARE ENCOU- RAGED TO SUBMIT A QUOTE.
This is an Indian Preference request for Quotes. Tribal Contractors who wish to receive Indian Preference must obtain certification by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Indian Preference Office as a legitimate Indian owned business prior to the submission of bids. In order to claim Indian Preference, proof of Indian Preference Certification must be included with your quote in the form of a copy of the certificate issued by the Indian Preference office. Be advised, evidence of your membership or affiliation with a tribe does not constitute Indian Preference certification. The selection of the successful contractor and award of this project will be per the provisions of the CSKT Indian Preference Ordinance 101 A. It is the sole responsibility of
the bidder to obtain and provide proof of Indian Preference certification from the Indian Preference Office. For more information on Indian Preference certification, contact Melinda Charlo, (406) 675-2700 ext. 1045.
Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 and Mar. 5 and 12, 2025 MNAXLP
William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC
Attorneys at Law
324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864
Telephone: (406) 676-4470
Attorney for Personal Representative bill@fgwilliamslaw.com
MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF M. ILENE BAERTSCH, Deceased.
CAUSE NO. DP-24-83 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appoint-
see page 23
public notices
Legals
cont’d from pg. 22
ed Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will be forever barred as creditors of the decedent.
A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, must either be mailed to GARY BAERTSCH, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.
DATED this 22nd day of January, 2025.
/s/ Gary Baertch
GARY BAERTSCH, Personal Representative
Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and 12, 2025 MNAXLP
William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864
Telephone: (406) 676-4470
Attorney for Personal Representative bill@fgwilliamslaw.com
MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA L. JOHNSON, Deceased.
CAUSE NO. DP-23-82 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 JAYE W. JOHNSON, 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 4th day of February, 2025.
/s/ Jaye W. Johnson
JAYE W. JOHNSON, Personal Representative
Feb. 12, 19 and 26, 2025 MNAXLP
William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC
Attorneys at Law 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864
Telephone: (406) 676-4470
Attorney for Personal Representative bill@fgwilliamslaw.com
MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ALAN ANTON ANDERSEN, Deceased.
CAUSE NO. DP-24-78 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 CHANCEY L. FLADAGER, 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 3rd day of December, 2024.
/s/ Chancey L. Fladager
CHANCEY L. FLADAGER, Personal Representative
Jan. 29, Feb. 5 and 12, 2025 MNAXLP
PUBLIC OPPORTUNITY TO PROTEST TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP OF Montana All-Alcoholic Beverages License 4STAR - MORIGEAU ESTATE (Estate of Irene Morigeau, Estate of Calvin Morigeau, Owner(s)) has applied to transfer Montana All-Alcoholic Beverages License No. 15-865-3768-001 to be operated at 4 STAR BAR, 26756 Us Highway 93, Ravalli, Lake County. The public may protest this license transfer in accordance with the law. Who can protest this transfer? Protests will be accepted from residents of the county of the proposed location Lake County, residents of adjoining Montana counties, and residents of
adjoining counties in another state if the criteria in 16-4-207(4)(d), Montana Code Annotated (MCA), are met. What information must be included? Protest letters must be legible and contain (1) the protestor’s full name, mailing address, and street address; (2) the license number 15-865-3768001 and the applicant’s name 4STARMORIGEAU ESTATE; (3) an indication that the letter is intended as a protest; (4) a description of the grounds for protesting; and (5) the protestor’s signature. A letter with multiple signatures will be considered one protest letter. What are valid protest grounds? The protest may be based on the applicant’s qualifications listed in 164-401, MCA, or the grounds for denial of an application in 16-4-405, MCA. Examples of valid protest grounds include: (1) the applicant is unlikely to operate the establishment in compliance with the law; (2) the proposed location cannot be properly policed by local authorities; and (3) the welfare of the people in the vicinity of the proposed location will be adversely and seriously affected.
How are protests submitted? Protests must be postmarked to the Department of Revenue, Office of Dispute Resolution, P.O. Box 5805, Helena, Montana 59604-5805 on or before February 22, 2025. What happens if the transfer is protested? Depending on the number of protests and the protest grounds, a public hearing will be held in Helena or Ravalli. All valid protestors will be notified of the hearing’s time, date and location. Hearings typically are scheduled within 90 days. A protester’s hear-
Service Directory
ing testimony is limited to the grounds in the protester’s letter. Following the hearing, the Department of Revenue will notify the public whether the license transfer is approved or denied. How can additional information be obtained? The cited MCA statutes are online at leg.mt.gov/bills/mca_toc/.
Questions may be directed to Vickie Zincke, Compliance Specialist for the Department of Revenue’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Division, at 4440713 or VZincke2@mt.gov.
February 5 and 12, 2025 MNAXLP
2025 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 30-2 for a two (2) year term, and two (2) trustees from District 30-2 to serve for a three (3) year term. Trustee candidates may file a
Declaration of Intent with the District Clerk between December 12, 2024 and March 27, 2025. The voting shall be by mail ballot election, with the election date of May 6, 2025. 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)
/s/ Robert Cornwell
Robert Cornwell, Presiding Officer Board of Trustees School District No. 30 Date: 1/24/2025
/s/ T.J. Harold Marmon
TJ Harold-Marmon Business Manager/Clerk School District No. 30 Date: 1/27/2025
February 12 and 26, 2025 MNAXLP
Get a job – earn college credits – make a difference!
Nursing Faculty 2 openings (10 months)
Salary Range: $55,935 - $65,551 DOEE
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Nursing Simulation Lab Instructor
Salary Range: $54,301-$56,400 DOEE
Closing date: Open Until Filled
Division of Education Early Childhood Instructor (9 months)
Salary Range: $47,276 - $53,586 DOEE
Closing Date: Monday, Feb. 10, 2025; 4:00 pm MST
Director of Marketing & Operations
Salary Range: $52,685 - $55,149 DOEE
Closing Date: Monday, Jan. 27, 2025; 4 pm MST
Custodian Part-time
Starting Wage: $15.54/hr
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Wildlife/Fisheries Ecologist (9 months)
Salary Range: $51,062 - $56,111 DOEE
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
President of Salish Kootenai College
Salary Range: $107,000 - $135,000 DOEE
Screening of applicants will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
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
Assistant Director of Center for Prevention & Wellness
Salary range: $42,829 - $45,293 DOEE
Closing Date: Feb. 24, 2025; 4:00 pm MST
Life Sciences Lab Manager
Salary Range: $42,289 - $45,293 DOEE
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Life Sciences Instructor
Salary Range: $53,586 - $57,373 DOEE
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
NLTE/Selis and Qlipse CALS Dept. Chair (9 months)
$2500 Chair stipend included
Salary Range: $51,038 - $56,086 DOEE
Closing Date: Monday, Feb. 3, 2025; 4 pm MST
Vice President of Academic Affairs
Salary Range: $78,750 - $89,250 DOEE
Closing Date: Monday, Feb. 3, 2025; 4:00 pm MST
Indigenous Research Center (IRC)
Administrative Assistant
Salary Range: $39,133 - $40,365 DOEE
Closing Date: Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025; 4 pm MST
Wildland Fire Instructor (9 months)
Salary Range: $44,752-$58,848 DOEE
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Supporting Tribal Education Pathways (STEP)
Project Assistant
Salary Range: $21.02 - $21.93 hourly DOEE
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Soils & Groundwater Hydrology Instructor-9month
Salary Range: $44,752-$54,848 DOEE
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Institutional Research Analyst
Salary Range: $47,757 - $50,221 DOEE
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
The Nursing Department is actively seeking adjunct nursing faculty who are excited about teaching and student learning. Adjunct nursing faculty will hold a minimum of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from both an accredited nursing program and college. If a BSN prepared nurse is currently enrolled in a master’s program, they will be considered as a qualified applicant. Any person seeking adjunct employment please send a completed SKC application, resume, and unofficial transcripts to Teresa Sias at teresa_sias@skc.edu. Official transcripts will be required upon hire.
Salish Kootenai College (SKC) is an Indian preference and equal opportunity employer. SKC does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual identification, gender, age, or disability, except as allowed by the Indian preference provision of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended. Consistent with state and federal law, reasonable accommodation will be provided to persons with disabilities.