02-14-24 issue

Happy Valentine’s Day! your homegrown newspaper February 14, 2024

$1.25 Vol. 20, No. 22

Law enforcement pg. 5

Non-profit love pg. 8

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Apollonia Hall, a fifth grade student from Charlo, celebrates upon seeing the “correct” sign held up after spelling the final, winning word correctly at the Lake County Spelling Bee.

Super spellers battle for county title at annual bee Story and photos by Summer Goddard Valley Journal

Sports pg. 15

ST. IGNATIUS — After 10 rounds of competition between 32 students, Apollonia Hall, a fifth grader from Charlo Schools, was named the 2024 Lake County Spelling Bee

champion. Apollonia spelled cupidity and methane correctly to take top honors and qualify for the state spelling bee in Bozeman on March 10.

This year’s county spelling bee was held in the new gym at St. Ignatius schools. Students from Charlo, Arlee and St. Ignatius

schools in grades 4-8 competed in the event. Lake County Superintendent of Schools Carolyn Hall said that with variety of new academic contests available from geography, math, robotics contests and more, she understands why schools may opt out.

This year marked Lake County’s

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

59th bee and the second in which Polson and Ronan schools didn’t compete.

Students participating in this year’s spelling bee worked their way through ten rounds of words that got progressively harder see page 2

Kysen Incashola, a fourth-grader from St. Ignatius tied for third place.

Fifth grader Boston Evans, left, tied for third place. Erianna Fat Lip, right, came in second place at the 2024 Lake County Spelling Bee.

Spelling Bee winner Apollonia Hall smiles with her first place trophy.

spelling bee from page 1

to spell. From trifle and in round one to glacier and abscond in round four, corroborate and impingement in round seven. Round nine, with words such as atrophy and cafeteria, tripped up many spellers. When the final speller didn’t spell his second word correctly to win, round nine spellers were all invited back to continue competing in round 10.

Ultimately, Apollonia claimed first while St. Ignatius students took second and third (tie) places.

Fifth grader Erianna Fat Lip came in second while Boston Evans, also in fifth grade, tied with Kysen Incashola, fourth grade, for third.

As county spelling bee champion, Apollonia Hall also received a grant from the Lower Flathead Valley Community Foundation to pay for travel and accommodations to attend the March 10 state bee.

Above: Ariana Davis, an Arlee fifth grader, spells a word during round 1.

Left, above: Ellis Stammers, sixth grader from Charlo, gets his first word from pronouncer John Lyons during the practice round.

Left: Jaxon Courville, Charlo sixth grader, spells a word during the first round of the Lake County Spelling Bee.

vj

2 - February 14, 2024

Valley Journal

Premium ADVERTISING spot available bi-weekly

Call Boone at 406-249-1728 to learn more.

This Week’s Weather Forecast Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Feb. 15

Feb. 16

Feb. 17

Feb. 18

26°/17°

24°/9°

25/12°

29°/22°

34°/25°

Mostly Cloudy 21% chance precipitation

Mostly Cloudy 22% chance precipitation

Mostly Sunny 4% chance precipitation

Mostly Cloudy 5% chance precipitation

AM Snow Showers 37% chance precipitation

Wednesday Feb. 14

Thursday

Monday

Tuesday

Feb. 19

Feb. 20

35°/26°

Mostly Cloudy 11% chance precipitation

34°/26°

AM Snow Showers 36% chance precipitation

Flathead Lake Level 2886.52 ft (6.48 below full pool)

WED

2/14

7:46 am

5:56 pm

9:57 am

none

THUR

2/15

7:44 am

5:58 pm

10:18 am

12:40 am

FRI

2/16

7:42 am

5:59 pm

10:44 am

2:01 am

SAT

2/17

7:41 am

6:01 pm

11:17 am

3:18 am

SUN

2/18

7:39 am

6:02 pm

12:01 pm

4:29 am

Precipitation 0.01 inches

MON 2/19

7:37 am

6:04 pm

12:55 pm

5:28 am

Record High 18° F

TUES

7:35 am

6:05 pm

1:59 pm

6:14 am

2/20

Valley Journal

Today in History Feb. 14, 2023 High 57° F Low 37° F

Record Low -14° F

February 14, 2024 - 3

contents Smith River permit.........7 Schools........................14 Lack of snow.................9 Sports..........................15 Valley Views.................10 Calendar......................23 Free museum day........12 Classifieds.................. 25

wintry rural road

And find us online for

contact us

more photos, videos, breaking news and special sections!

www.valleyjournal.net

Boone Goddard

Summer Goddard

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

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

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

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

Your homegrown newspaper serves residents of Lake 4 - February 14, 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.

All print subscriptions include full access to online news, Valley Journal

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

Copyright 2024, the Valley Journal. All rights reserved.

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

Governor still mum on tribal law enforcement in Lake County

County officials frustrated with Gov. Gianforte’s silence over pending changes to reservation law enforcement

By Justin Franz, Montana Free Press

Officials in Lake County say the clock is ticking for the state to assume felony law enforcement duties on the Flathead Indian Reservation, but so far they’ve heard nothing from Gov. Greg Gianforte.

In November, the Lake County Commission sent a letter to Gianforte informing him that the local sheriff ’s office and criminal justice system would no longer handle felony law enforcement on the reservation under what is called Public Law 280.

The agreement between the state and tribe is one-of-a-kind in Montana. Under the law, the governor has six months to make a proclamation releasing Lake County of its duties. But more than two months after notifying the governor that it wanted out, the county has had no conversations with the state about what law enforcement there would look like in the future.

“We have heard nothing,” Commissioner Gale

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Some of the inmates in Lake County’s Jail, located in the basement of the courthouse, are tribal members. Having withdrawn from PL 280, in which the county previously agreed to prosecute federal crimes committed by Native American tribal members, commissioners are at a quandry as to what to do tribal inmates and with felony procesutions already underway.

Decker told Montana Free Press this week.

“The clock is ticking and [the deadline of ] May 20th is going to be here really soon.”

At the root of Decker’s frustration is the fact that many logistical issues need to be sorted out if Lake County is indeed going to give up its previous law enforcement duties on the reservation.

“What do we do with the inmates who are tribal members? What do we do with felony prosecutions already in the works? We just have a lot of questions,” he said.

Since the 1960s, most law enforcement on the northwest Montana reservation has been handled locally, rather than by federal officers.

Lake County’s justice system handles felony crimes, and (since the 1990s) the tribal system handles misdemeanors.

Officials, including Lake County Sheriff Don Bell, said the agreement has been successful because things don’t fall through the cracks like they might with federal agents from out of town.

But for the last few years, officials in Lake

County have said fulfilling those law enforcement duties has wreaked havoc on its budget.

According to the county, the agreement is costing local taxpayers more than $4 million annually. In years past, county officials said the bill was easier to pay thanks to taxes generated by the Séliš Ksanka QÍispé Dam, but once the dam was sold to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, that revenue dried up. There was also no way for Lake County to pull out of the agreement establishing Public Law 280; only the

Valley Journal

state or tribe could.

Over the years, there have been multiple attempts in the Legislature to get the state to help foot the bill. In 2021, one of those passed, but the state only appropriated $1 to the cause. However, that bill did give the county a mechanism to pull out of the agreement, which it is now exercising. Last year, House Bill 479 would have authorized the state to pay $2.5 million annually for two years to Lake County.

But despite passing both chambers, Gianforte vetoed it. In his veto letter,

the governor — who in the past has hailed the Public Law 280 agreement as a success — said the county wanted all the benefits of the agreement without having to pay for it. But the county sees it differently, arguing that since the state entered into the agreement with the tribe, it’s the state’s responsibility to cover the costs.

The county has tried other ways to get the state to help pay, including filing a lawsuit last year. That suit ultimately failed, but the judge did encourage the county to pull out of the agreement.

“If the financial burden Lake County bears is unacceptable, which by all accounts it appears to be, its remedy is to withdraw,” wrote District Court Judge Amy Eddy in her ruling.

In November, the county commission sent a letter to Gov. Gianforte informing him they wanted out of the deal.

Two weeks after that they sent a follow-up letter asking specific questions of the state, including if it would be providing its own uniformed officers, if the state would prosecute tribal members accused of crimes or would shift that burden to federal agencies, and whether the state will establish its own detention facility to handle prisoners. So far, see page 6

February 14, 2024 - 5

Bridge near Ronan proposed for replacement News from the Montana Department of Transportation

RONAN — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) would like to announce and invite the public to comment on a proposal to replace the existing bridge that crosses Crow Creek on Moiese Valley Road, approximately 10 miles southwest of Ronan.

Proposed work in-

to provide a new bridge that meets current design standards and enhances safety features for the traveling public and surrounding communities.

Construction is tentatively planned for 2026 depending on completion of design and availability of funds. Right-of-way acquisition or temporary construction permits will likely be required for this project. Relocation of utilities may also be nec-

essary. Landowners may be contacted again prior to construction regarding temporary permits.

Partnering with the community is an important part of properly planning for future projects.

MDT welcomes the public to provide ideas and comments on the proposed project. Comments may be submitted online at www.mdt.mt.gov/ contact/comment-form. aspx or in writing to

Montana Department of Transportation, Missoula office, PO Box 7039, Missoula, MT 598077039. Please note that comments are for project UPN 10114000.

The public is encouraged to contact Missoula District Preconstruction Engineer Joel Boucher at 406-544-5802 with questions or comments about the project.

About MDT: We are B.U.I.L.D.E.R.S.

At MDT, our mission is to plan, build, operate, and maintain a safe and resilient transportation infrastructure to move Montana forward by setting the gold standard for a highly effective, innovative, and people-centric department of transportation. For more information about MDT and the work we do on behalf of Montana’s traveling public, visit www.mdt. mt.gov/.

Plaintiffs ask court to strike down privatized school bill

law enforcement from page 5

none of those questions have been answered.

For the three county commissioners in Lake County, the silence is upsetting — especially since Gianforte is a fellow Republican.

“What’s ironic is he said he shouldn’t be the one to deal with this issue, that it’s up to the Legislature,” said Commissioner Bill Barron.

“Well, they did deal with it, and then he went and vetoed it.”

In a statement to MTFP, Gianforte spokesperson Kaitlin Price wrote that the state has “acknowledged receipt” of the letter from November and that it was working on the issue.

“The administration has started its internal process and is committed to holding discussions with stakeholders, including Lake County, to identify a path forward,” she wrote.

vj 6 - February 14, 2024

cludes replacing the existing structure and grading and paving the bridge approaches. The new structure may be adjusted vertically to provide necessary clearance from the creek, and it may be moved horizontally as a detour.

The existing bridge is currently load posted (10 tons) due to the poor, deteriorated condition of the substructure. The purpose of this project is

News from Rylee SommersFlannagan, Upper Seven Law

HELENA — Late on Feb. 6, 2024, public school plaintiffs—a diverse group that includes the Montana Quality Education Coalition and the League of Women Voters of Montana as well as eight individual Montana teachers, parents, voters, and taxpayers— moved for summary judgment in their suit challenging House Bill 562, which creates an unaccountable system of publicly funded privatized schools.

In September, finding that plaintiffs were likely to ultimately succeed in striking the law, the district court temporarily blocked the bill’s implementation to allow the litigation to proceed and prevent Montanans’ rights from being violated in the meantime. As plaintiffs say in their motion, the bill “creates an extraconstitutional privatized school system that mimics the existing public school system’s structure, uses public dollars to subsidize

unaccountable private education, and excludes community members from exerting any influence at the ballot box.”

“If HB 562 is implemented, it will wreak havoc on our state’s public schools and rob Montana children of the educational opportunity we have promised them,” said Jessica Felchle, a Billings public school teacher with children who attend Laurel Public Schools. “HB 562 would harm my students, and I can’t let that happen.”

HB 562 describes its unchecked system of privatized schools euphemistically as “community choice schools,” but insulates them from the Board of Public Education and funds them on the taxpayer’s dime. Plaintiffs point out that HB 562 commits a slew of constitutional violations. Not only does the law reduce public school funding, ensure unequal educational opportunities, and gut school safety and quality requirements, but it also usurps the supervisory authority of Valley Journal

the constitutionally mandated Board of Public Education, and the carefully preserved control of local school boards. What’s more, it violates all Montanans’ rights of suffrage and equal protection by excluding anyone not affiliated with the newly created privatized schools from participating in their governing board elections.

“By privatizing public education in Montana, this bill would harm every single local public school,” said Amanda Curtis, President of the Montana Federation of Public Employees. “It hurts everyone: students, teachers, voters, and communities across the state.

We cannot and will not allow the legislature to pull taxpayer money from public school classrooms to fund an unconstitutional private school scheme.”

“Public education is the foundation for success in Montana—it fuels our best and brightest and gives our children the opportunity to achieve the American dream,” Rylee Sommers-Flanagan, Executive Di-

rector of Upper Seven Law and plaintiffs’ counsel said. “HB 562 would do away with basic state law requirements that set high expectations for teachers and keep students safe. It violates the Montana Constitution and it must be struck down.”

If the plaintiffs’ motion is granted, the effect would be a final, permanent determination that HB 562 is unconstitutional and unenforceable. The state must respond to plaintiff ’s motion in 21 days.

About Upper Seven Law: Upper Seven Law is a Montana-based nonprofit law firm dedicated to holding the powerful accountable.

About the Organizational Plaintiffs: Montana Quality Education Coalition is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Helena.

The League of Women Voters of Montana is a chapter of the national nonprofit League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan organization based in Helena, Montana.

Smith River permit deadline is Feb. 14 Changes in place for 2024 float season News from MT Fish, Wildlife and Parks

GREAT FALLS — The deadline for Smith River float applications is Wednesday, Feb. 14. The permit drawing will be held on Feb. 22. 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.

To apply for a Smith River float permit online, go to the FWP Online Licensing System.

A $15 nonrefundable permit application fee is required. Successful Smith River applicants will be notified via email shortly after the lottery drawing is conducted.

This year is the firsttime applicants can buy a bonus point for the Smith River Permit. A bonus point is essentially an extra chance you can purchase for the permit drawing. These points accumulate year after year if you are unsuccessful in the drawing.

Residents can purchase a bonus point for $5; nonresidents can purchase a bonus point for $50. The bonus point is applied to your application the year it is purchased. You can apply for a permit through FWP’s Online Licensing System.

Another change this

year, FWP staff will remove pit toilets at the boat camps along the Smith River this spring.

All float parties will be required to pack out their human waste from the Smith River corridor. This requirement is similar to many other river systems in the West and necessary to keep the corridor pristine for visitors now and for decades to come. The rules implementing this packout system were passed by the Montana Parks Board in early 2022.

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 takeout. To watch a video of how the SCAT machine

works with FWP-approved toilets, click here.

Finally, starting in 2024, the number of permits available for nonresidents may not exceed 10 percent of the available permits. This new law was passed as part of House Bill 846 in the 2023 Legislative Session.

In addition to the permit lottery, the public may purchase as many $5 Super Permit chances as they wish. FWP 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 through March 22. The Super Permit drawing will take place on March 26. Super Permit chances may be purchased online through FWP’s Online Licensing System.

For more information about Smith River State Park visit: http://stateparks.mt.gov/smith-river/

“Thank You”

A huge to our generous Businesses and Donors: Alex Wright in memory of Jack Wright-Alpine Design –Arnie’s Gas and Tire- Beacon Tire- Betty’s Diner –Bev’s BloomersBig Sky Sasquatch-Bison Café-Bison Range-Briar’s Baby Boutique-Brown’s Jewelry-Buck’s Market-Catherine

Baylor-Charlo Grocery-Cove Pizza-CSKT IT-Delaney’s Greenhouse-Dynomart-Dobson Creek-Don Aadsen

Ford-Eagle Bank-FIYA Jamaican Jerk Chicken-Gambles-Gateway to Vitality-Glacier Bank-Great Gray

Gifts-Handmade Montana-Harvest Foods Ronan-Head Over Heels-K&B Bargains-K7O Auto-Kapi Shop-

Kelly Woodcock-Lake City Bakery-Lucky Strike Lanes-

Barb Phillips-Mackenzie River Pizza-McDonald’s RonanMEXPress-Mission Fitness-Mission Mountain Natural Foods-Mission Valley Aquatics-Mission Valley Power-

Mission Valley Veterinary Clinic-Mountain West CoopMurdoch’s-MVP Popcorn-Napa Polson-Napa RonanNicole Antoine-Ninepipes Lodge-NRD-Pablo Foods-

Patty Moore-Pizza Café-Quicksilver-Red Lion HotelRene Kenmille-Rocky Mountain Twist-S&K Gaming

-Sportspage-Starbucks-Stuart’s Hometown Auto-

Swanky Sisters-Sweet Cakes-Symes Hot Springs-Taco Bell-

Thai Café-The Little Shop Montana-The Marbled Hide-Three Chiefs-Total Screen Design-Valley Bank-Vet Care MontanaWestland Seed-Wilson Foods-32 Pairs of Scissorsand many more!~

DOG AND CAT LICENSES REQUIRED Ordinance 2010-06 of the Ronan Municipal Codes states that no dog or cat shall be permitted to be or remain in the City without having a proper current license affixed to a collar, chain, or harness fastened to or upon each such animal. Licenses expire as of January 1 of each year. 2024 Licenses can be obtained at Ronan City Hall, 207 Main SW, Ronan, MT. MNAXLP 2/14 & 2/21 2024

Valley Journal

Saturday, February 3rd Salish Kootenai College Gym

February 14, 2024 - 7

COURTESY PHOTO

Mary Martin - Polson Loaves and Fish Food Pantry

COURTESY PHOTO

Jennifer Rolfsness, Eleanor Vizcarra - Helping Hands and Linda Fisher, GPCF

COURTESY PHOTO

David King and Becky Dupuis Flathead Lake International Cinemafest

GPCF shows love to area non-profits News from GPCF

T

COURTESY PHOTO

Shauna Rubel, GPCF and Raeva Corkill Mission Valley Animal Shelter

COURTESY PHOTO

Kellie Hudson and Eleanor Vizcarra Women 4 Wellness Health Event 8 - February 14, 2024

he non-profit sector adds tremendous value to our community’s well-being. GPCF celebrated February “the month of love” by sending their Valentines and sweet trust-based grant funds to locally selected non-profits.

“Trust-based grants go to organizations with which we have worked for years that are important to our community, have earned our community’s trust, and deserve support for general operations” states Jeanette Phillips, grant chair for the GPCF. Trust-based grant applications are by invitation only from the GPCF grant committee and organizations receiving these funds may still apply for the annual IMPACT grant cycle.

The application process and reporting for these unencumbered grant funds is kept

simple. Our “trust” reflects confidence in an organization’s board, management, and programs.

Long standing committee person Marc Vergeront explains that “We expect to renew these trust grants annually for deserving non-profits and as our experience and awareness of needs grows, we hope (with community support) to invite other organizations to apply for these funds, as well as to increase support for project grants.”

Board President Toni Whealon would like to thank the many donors making possible grants totaling more than $1.5 million over the past 15 years. “We are particularly grateful that the endowment legacy left by John Cowan enabled GPCF to nearly double the amounts initially granted and hopefully will see this increase into Valley Journal

the future. We know benefits realized through the generosity of our donors depend on the hard work of non-profit volunteers and their employees. To both donors and our non-profits we owe deep gratitude.”

The Greater Polson Community would like to congratulate the following organizations for being selected as 2024 trust-based grant recipients: Boys and Girls Club of Flathead Reservation, FLIC, Polson Loaves & Fish Food Pantry, Mission Valley Live, Miracle of America Museum, Helping Hands, Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana, Women 4 Wellness, Mission Valley Animal Shelter & the Mission Valley Ice Arena. We appreciate and acknowledge their continued hard work to keep our communities strong.

You are the heart of our communities.

COURTESY PHOTO

Jo Cheff - Ninepipes Museum

COURTESY PHOTO

Helen and Gil Mangels Miracle of America Museum

January weather concludes with general lack of snow in MT News from USDA

BOZEMAN — At the beginning of January more than half of NRCS snow monitoring stations in Montana and surrounding river basins reported their lowest snowpack on record.

“Well above normal precipitation was needed to begin a recovery from lack of snow, yet precipitation was mostly below normal across Montana last month,” said Eric Larson, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Water Supply Specialist. The exception was the northern Flathead and Kootenai River basins in Montana where total monthly precipitation was near normal. Other basins west of the Continental Divide received 70-90% of normal precipitation during January. East of the Continental Divide, the southern Rocky Mountain Front, central Montana, and part of southwest Montana

Flathead Reservation

Fish and Wildlife Board

meeting set for Feb. 21 News from CSKT

COURTESY PHOTO

received about 60-70% of normal January precipitation. The Gallatin, Upper Yellowstone, Bighorn, Powder,

and Tongue River basins received less than 65% of normal January precipitation.

Valley Journal

MISSOULA — The Flathead Reservation Fish and Wildlife Board will meet Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, from 1-3 p.m. at the Fish, Wildlife & Parks office at 3201 Spurgin Road, Missoula.

This meeting will cover enforcement reports, bird hunting regulation updates and a presentation on the MyFWP app. All interested persons are invited to attend.

For more information, contact Stephanie Gillin at: Stephanie. gillin@cskt.org or Whisper Camel-Means Whisper.means@cskt. org or by phone at 406-883-2888.

February 14, 2024 - 9

valley views Happy Valentine’s Day to the famous and infamous W

the real deal.

For 33-plus years, my husband was my Valenthe year.

Love. Kisses. Hearts. tine. That maybe sounds Roses. Romantic cards. boring, but it wasn’t.

Now I obCandles. serve the day Champagne. of love from A box of Jill Pertler chocolates. afar. I don’t Syndicated columnist On Febanticipate roses or chocruary 14 we olates from celebrate Valentine’s Day. Or, better my sweetie. But I do observe the day of love in put, some of us do.

For many years, the day another way: I live it vihad personal significance cariously through others.

This year, the couple to me because I actually worth watching is obvihad a real life Valentine. ous.

He even lived with me.

They are known as We ate meals together, slept in the same bed and Tay tay and Trav by their made plans for the future. closest friends - as well as everyone who’s ever On Valentine’s Day we listened to a Taylor Swift used to exchange cards album or watched a Kanand everything. I even sas City Chiefs football received a dozen roses on more occasions than I game.

I’ve maybe done both can remember. We were e are in the ‘amore’ season of

Slices of Life

so that makes me somewhat of an expert on the subject.

Travis and Taylor have taken their romance public - very public. Here’s why: they didn’t have a choice. They are both in the category of superstar and lots of people love watching, keeping tabs on, dreaming of and making judgements about their love story - or lack thereof.

At first, I was a bit skeptical myself. The world has made me a cynic. Or maybe the media has done that without any help from the rest of the world at large. Either way, I approached the T and T romance with a grain of salt and a fair amount of doubt as to the reality of it all.

But, I’ve been won over.

Not that it matters in the least.

What I think - what anyone thinks - is inconsequential. In the big scheme of things it is about as important as which team wins the big game this weekend. (But you didn’t hear that from me!)

My favorite Valentine’s couple this year are a public lot. Maybe they chose that lot, maybe not. But either way, love, when real, is magical and miraculous and worth our reverence and gratitude.

Are Travis and Taylor “really” in love? Maybe, maybe not. I like to think so.

I guess it’s human nature to speculate. And hope. And I am truly hoping for them.

Love between any

two people is absolutely wondrous. It is also filled with challenges. And those challenges, I think, multiply, when your success is based on a public persona.

But public or not, everyone (repeat that, everyone!) deserves a real, true-life love story. And as far as Travis and Taylor go, I’m rooting for them - this Sunday and every Grammy Awards Ceremony thereafter.

As far as the big game goes? I don’t have a favorite, just a favorite couple. I guess you can call me a hopeless romantic.

Because in the end and the beginning and everywhere in between - love is all that matters no matter how famous, or infamous you are. (And yes, that is a joke - the

Montana Supreme Court wrong on legislative rules A

three separate and equal branchs a practicing lawyer, I am often reluctant to es, each with their own duties criticize decisions made by a and responsibilities. court. However, last As a fundamental principle, each week, the Montana branch is charged Supreme Court rendered a decision with running and involving legislative managing its own rules which is absoaffairs. This principle is enshrined lutely stunning.

Sen. Steve Fitzpatrick, One of the basic into the Montana R-Great Falls, principles of our Senate Majority Leader Constitution in Article V, Section system of government is the separation of powers. 10. According to that provision, Under our constitution, there are each house of the Legislature

Legislative Notes

10 - February 14, 2024

shall choose its officers and make rules for its proceedings.

In a recent decision, the Montana Supreme Court decided to eviscerate the Legislature’s power to make rules and manage its own affairs. Now, as part of its analysis, the Supreme Court examines things such as the length of a meeting or the timing of a vote. If the Legislature acts in a way the Supreme Court feels is contrary to some legislative “norm,” the Supreme Court has granted itself the power to punValley Journal

ish the Legislature.

Not only has the Supreme Court decided to invade the province of the Legislature, the Supreme Court has taken upon itself to interpret legislative rules and in doing so it has interpreted them incorrectly.

In its decision, the Supreme Court accused the Legislature of acting in “bad faith” by holding a free conference committee instead of regular conference comsee page 11

words, not the love.)

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.

legislative rules from page 10

mittee. However, there is a problem with this conclusion – the legislative rules do not mandate such a procedure.

Moreover, the Montana Supreme Court has accused the Legislature of violating rules by using text from a failed bill. Again, there is nothing in legislative rules which prohibits this practice.

The process the Supreme Court called “bad faith” is the same process that saved the state employee pay plan in 2017. In that session, I amended text from the failed pay plan into Senate Bill 294. No one accused me of acting in “bad faith” when I made sure state employees, including employees of the judicial branch, got paid in 2017.

In each legislative session, bills move through different processes and procedures. There have been many pieces of legislation, many of them significant, which have passed using procedures which deviated from legislative “norms.”

Those bills include Medicaid expansion, the dark money campaign finance reforms, and the CSKT water compact.

No court has ever accused the Legislature of acting in bad faith when it passed these bills.

While the Supreme Court takes the Legislature to task for violating “legislative norms,” the ironic fact is the Court disregarded its own judicial precedents and norms. According to Montana Supreme Court case law, issues should not be raised for a first time on appeal, nor should the Court do research for the parties. Notwithstanding these clear judicial “norms,” the Montana Supreme Court did just that - it wrote about an issue no party briefed or argued in its submissions.

It is the prerogative of the legislative branch to establish rules for the operation of the Legislature. So long as the procedure established by the legislative branch complies with the terms of the Montana Constitution, the judicial branch has no business dictating the operating procedures of the Legislature.

vj

Let’s set the record straight O

n Feb. 8 (and in this newspaAppellants challenged two of the per issue), senator (and lawyer) amendments for violating Montana’s Steve Fitzpatrick (R-SD 10) pubConstitution, Article V, sections 11(1) lished a guest view in the Indepenand (3). In pertinent part, these redent Record chastising the Montana quire: (1) [a] law shall be passed by Supreme Court for a “stunning” decibill which shall not be so altered or sion. The Senator’s litany amended on its passage of complaints included through the legislature as that the Court violated to change its original purJames C. Nelson the separation of powers, pose, and (3) [e]ach bill, Retired Montana Supreme Court Justice “eviscerated the Legisexcept general approprialature’s power to make tion bills and bills for the rules and manage its own codification and general affairs” . . . “granted itself the power to revision of the laws, shall contain only punish the Legislature,” invaded the one subject, clearly expressed in its province of the legislature to interpret title. its own rules, accused the Legislature After various proceedings and hearof bad faith, and [took] the legislature ings, the District Court concluded to task for violating its norms, all the that the amended bill violated both while ignoring its own norms and of the foregoing constitutional manprecedents. dates. The State, represented by the The Senator identified neither the Attorney General, chose not to appeal case nor what the Court’s decision – resulting in the trial court’s decision was actually about. The name of the becoming the law of that case. case is Forward Montana v. State by Appellants moved for attorney and through Gianforte, 2024 MT 19. fees under the “private attorney The Court’s decision is well-written general doctrine,” and § 25-10-711, and easy to follow; read it at: https:// MCA--exceptions to the “American caselaw.findlaw.com/court/mt-suRule” under which litigants generalpreme-court/115767619.html. Forly bear their own fees. The District ward Montana and other plaintiffs are Court denied the fee request. Appelreferred to as Appellants. lants appealed that denial. The SuThe case. preme Court reversed and applied the During the 2021 session, the Legis- doctrine. lature considered SB 319, which dealt The decision. with the regulation of joint political In reversing the District Court’s defundraising committees. Like most, the bill went back and forth between the Senate and the House and was amended. A free conference committee, appointed to consider amendments, apparently did not. However, two days before the Legislature adjourned, this committee added four new sections to the bill during a 17-minute meeting, closed to the public. Several of these amendments were almost verbatim from a bill that failed to pass during the session. The bill, so amended, passed both houses in the last 24 hours of the session.

Valley Views

Valley Journal

cision, the Supreme Court concluded, among other things, that: Appellants were entitled to attorney fees because “[they] alone [vindicated] important constitutional interests. The Legislature disregarded its constitutional limitations, and the Attorney General offered no substantive or constitutional interests in defense of these actions;” because “[t]he Legislature must follow certain rules in enacting legislation to ensure transparency and public participation;” and “because of the process through which the unconstitutional sections of this Bill came to be: an obviously unlawful Bill adopted through willful disregard of constitutional obligations and legislative rules and norms.”

Thus, this case had nothing to do with the parade of horribles described

by Senator Fitzpatrick. Rather, this case involved the issue of attorney fees awarded to a litigant pursuant to the private attorney general doctrine.

More to the point, this case involved a challenge to unconstitutional legislation rammed through at the end of the session and the Legislature sucker-punching the public’s Constitutional right to know.

Ironically, Senator Fitzpatrick demonized the Court for doing its job—i.e. holding the Legislature and Executive accountable for not doing theirs.

February 14, 2024 - 11

letters

Strike Two for Tribal Health Department

Editor, This letter is being addressed to the Tribal Council and the Tribal Health management.

Once again failure within the Tribal Health Department in the same program that failed to bring me to my scheduled surgery back in January 2024.

Upon calling their program in December 2023, letting them know I have a prescription that I sent over to the Ronan Pharmacy from another pharmacy because Medicaid does not cover it and was requesting their help to pick it up due to my medical condition.

The program stated that the CHR worker was going to “pick up my prescribed medication.”

Another week passed since that initial call to their department, no delivery of the medication had ever arrived, so I gave them little more time since they informed me they were going to deliver it. Then no medication was delivered to me … decided to give there program a call … after speaking to Ms. Grant, she informed me again that so and so CHR worker said she was going pick it up.

Once again time was passing by and no medication was ever delivered by their program and I 12 - February 14, 2024

am fed up with them. I needed my medication and am busted up, and that’s putting it mildly considering they never got me to the hospital for my surgery two weeks prior.

So, I got Transit to pick me up first sign of daylight and had them drop me off at the Ronan Tribal Health Pharmacy and waited across the street; for one hour for the Tribal Health Pharmacy to open.

Upon receiving my medications, records indicated my prescription medication was at Tribal Health for over a month.

Just because I am a tribal member does not give the program the right to neglect their responsibilities.

If my memory of the law does not elude me, it is illegal to keep an individual from their medications.

Perhaps legal action should be taken.

Sharlene Peone Ronan

Elder distinction shouldn’t be based on income Editor, I received my letter from DHRD Elder Services Program May 4, 2023. Long awaited with great anticipation almost a feeling of excitement opening up the letter.

Finally after working 47 years of my life I will

finally be recognized by my Tribe and its Council for all my hard work and dedication to myself, my employer, wife, kids and grandkids.

Just as I was looking forward to start collecting my social security benefits, the letter’s 27 words bring down the house of cards: “Sorry, over income. Application denied.”

I supposed the definition of elder doesn’t come with long hard work it comes with the amount of income, kinda like “no gas, no squeegee,” “more money, no elder.”

So what I get out of this is you make a decent living all your life, you will not become an elder in the eyes of the CSKT DHRD Elder Program?

Two huge definitions in the tribal laws. No need to apologize, I understand. Wish I would have had a little clue 47 years ago about working hard.

It’s all good. My family is still my family and all are very proud of my hard work and dedication to myself and my family.

Mark William Thompson St. Ignatius

We cannot afford to lose our democracy Editor, Three considerations: (A) In our nation, black or white, rich or poor, liberal or conservative,

male or female, young or old, our experiences have generally formed a trust in our two-party democratic system of government. However, many Republicans are presently baffled and bewildered by current politics. How is personal fear and anger affecting these confusions?

(B) Be alert America.

Be alert world. Climate change is real. Challenges are already affecting human life on earth. This is just the beginning. We humans had better pay attention, learn, believe, and act sensibly and effectively.

(C) Just listen to any newscast. They all talk about President Biden personally. It is the same with candidate Trump.

My point is this: An active presidency goes way beyond one person.

It involves many people’s attention and power.

Some are in key positions advising the president.

The president is getting daily helpful and important advice. And note this: The comparisons of the Biden presidency with a Trump presidency presents clear and factual evidence that our nation under Trump would be a nation ruled by dictatorial means. We cannot afford to lose our democracy. Let’s get behind a movement promoting democracy in our candidate for president.

Bob McClellan Missoula

Valley Journal

COURTESY GRAPHIC

Montana Day at Museum of the Rockies is Feb. 24 Visitors can explore museum free of charge From MSU News Service

BOZEMAN — Montana State University’s Museum of the Rockies will allow Montana residents free admission on Montana Day, on Feb. 24. This annual event is part of the museum’s commitment to making education accessible to the state.

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors can explore the museum including “Conserving America’s Wildlands: The Vision of Ted Turner” exhibit, cultural and natural history exhibits, children’s exhibit, planetarium shows and the museum store.

“With thousands of Montanans expected to attend, this special day promises to be a celebration of the state’s rich heritage and natural wonders,” said Alicia Harvey, director of marketing at Museum of the Rockies.

“The event has become a tradition, attracting visitors of all ages,” said Christopher Dobbs, the see page 14

Valley Journal

February 14, 2024 - 13

schools Polson School District staff participate in professional development day

By Betsy Wade, Polson Schools

POLSON — Polson School District educators recently participated in a practical and engaging professional development day on Jan. 29. The sessions aimed to equip teachers with tangible tools and insights to enhance their teaching strategies and their work with students.

One highlight of the day was a session on AI (Artificial Intelligence) and Education led by Connor Mulvaney, Polson High School Science and Computer Science teacher. The session took a hands-on approach, demystifying AI’s core principles and highlighting its practical role in education. Teachers had the opportunity to delve into different AI tools to enhance their instruction, curriculum, and organization, with a focus on responsible and ethical

free MOR admission from page 12

museum’s executive director. “We are delighted to welcome Montana residents on this wonderful day. Through free admission, we aim to provide all Montanans an opportunity to explore the educational, cultural and natural resources offered at the museum.”

Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of dinosaur fossils, including the Tyrannosaurus rex specimen, and visit planetarium shows. The children’s Yellowstone 14 - February 14, 2024

COURTESY PHOTO

Polson educators learn about artificial intelligence from Polson High School science and computer science teacher Connor Mulvaney.

usage.

Teachers also had the chance to explore the Discovery Education Experience during a session facilitated

by Allison Nys, Manager for Statewide & Strategic Part-

nerships for Montana Discovery Education. The Montana Office of Public Instruction has partnered with Discovery Education to provide the award-winning K-12 learning platform to all Montana

exhibit provides hands-on learning experiences.

For more information about Montana Day at the Museum of the Rockies, please visit www. museumoftherockies.org or call 406-994-2251.

The Museum of the Rockies operates as an independent nonprofit organization and a college-level division of MSU. It is a Smithsonian Affiliate and serves as a repository for state and federal fossils.

vj

public school classrooms. This professional development session allowed Polson educators to become more familiar with Discovery Education, and to explore a plethora of resources including video segments,

virtual field trips, interactives, songs, and audiobooks.

Finally, the day culminated in an opportunity for Polson educators to join the Polson High School Project AWARE Indigenous Immersion Program students and community elders for a sharing of knowledge and demonstration of traditional and contemporary dry meat making practices.

Educators actively engaged in the professional development sessions throughout the day, showcasing a commitment to staying current in the educational landscape.

Polson School District remains dedicated to inspiring self-directed learners in an interconnected world, with recent professional development efforts demonstrating a pragmatic approach to addressing the evolving needs of both educators and students.

Arlee Junior High names first quarter honors students ARLEE — Perfect Attendance 8th Grade: Bayetho Jackson, Alexis Pape, Xander Zahir Perfect Attendance 7th Grade: Tripp Bick, Kade DuPuis-Pablo?, Victoria-Lynn Harper?

High Honor Roll (3.7 & above) 8th grade: Bayetho Jackson, Walker Jones, and Alexis Pape High Honor Roll (3.7 & above) 7th grade: Tripp Bick, Aaron Diaz, Alysen Garwood, Izabella Knoll, Kalani Rioux Honor Roll (3.3-3.69) 8th grade: Amillia Bartell, Bo Brockway, Nathan Brush, Riley Pockrandt, Malia StandingRock, Dalton Stevens, Kaylee Tanner, Xander Zahir Honor Roll (3.3-3.69) 7th grade: Annahaya Coulson, Tyrin Lindquist, Aarinnario North Piegan, Alonny Santos, Justine Shelby, Lyu Stockdale

Valley Journal

sports Lady Pirates win annual ‘Battle for the Paddle’ against Ronan

By Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

POLSON — The Polson Pirates met the Ronan Chiefs at home Saturday, Feb. 10. The Chiefs took the lead early and held on for a 44-32 win.

“We are proud of those boys and proud of how they represent our school and our community,” said PHS Principal Andy Fors.

The Polson Pirate boys basketball team holds a win-loss ratio of two wins to 15 losses.

The Lady Pirates took a close win against the Ronan Maidens, 37-36 to win the annual Battle for the Paddle against their cross-county rival.

Head Coach Brandie Buckless said, “This has been a growing season for our girls. We have a lot of young girls though, and it’s been a really fun season.”

The girls’ season has almost been a 50/50 split for their win-loss ratio having won eight games and losing nine.

“With this win, we secured our fourth-place position in the conference, and we have one game left in the regular season then a couple games for divisionals,” Buckless said.

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

The trophy paddle is back in Polson until next year’s game is played.

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Ronan Maiden Arianna Zepeda drives by Lady Pirate Hinkley Moss during a Feb. 10 game.

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Lady Pirate Julia Barnard lays it up in a crowd.

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO

Polson Pirate basketball player Jesse Vail looks for an open channel during last Saturday’s game against Ronan. The evening was also Polson senior night.

Valley Journal

February 14, 2024 - 15

Ronan girls wrestlers win second at state State Wrestling Results

BILLINGS – Ronan’s wrestling team came in 7th for A teams and the Ronan girls came in 2nd at the state wrestling tournament in Billings.

Polson finished 25th for A teams while Polson girls came in 17th. St. Ignatius/ Charlo came in 32 for B/C while St. Ignatius girls came in 52nd.

A - 103 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - Tyson Syth of Sidney / Fairview 2nd Place - Emerson Nose of Laurel 3rd Place - Ian Dillard of Ronan 4th Place - Jonah Casterline of Laurel 5th Place - William Alves of Lockwood (Billings) 6th Place - Marquis Abad of Butte Central 1st Place Match Tyson Syth (Sidney / Fairview) 41-14, Fr. over Emerson Nose (Laurel) 33-12, 8th.

(Fall 3:51) 3rd Place Match Ian Dillard (Ronan) 27-4, Sr. over Jonah Casterline (Laurel) 27-18, Fr. (Dec 4-0) 5th Place Match William Alves (Lockwood (Billings)) 29-12, 8th. over Marquis Abad (Butte Central) 23-7, So. (Dec 9-2) A - 120 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - Cole Rogers of Three Forks/Ennis 2nd Place - Elijah Nose of Laurel 3rd Place - Kona Fandrich of Lockwood (Billings) 4th Place - Ridge Cote of Ronan 5th Place - Travis Nygard of Frenchtown 6th Place - Xander McCann of Billings Central/Joliet 16 - February 14, 2024

WAY to GO state

wrestlers & Swimmers!

We are proud of you!

Sponsored by your Lake County Boosters

Polson Lube Center Expressvice 883-0055 Ser MOUNTAIN VIEW ELLEN KAPHAMMER PHOTO

Landon Bishop of Ronan, top wrestler above, moved on to become the state champion at 170 pounds.

A - 126 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - Cole Krutzfeldt of Lockwood (Billings) 2nd Place - Brenner Mullin of Sidney / Fairview 3rd Place - Tristan Swanson of Dawson County 4th Place - Reed Mantle of Havre 5th Place - Jake Phalen of Custer Co. (Miles City) 6th Place - August Courville of Ronan A - 152 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - Kade Wersland of Laurel 2nd Place - Koda King of Ronan 3rd Place - Reinhard Bold of Havre 4th Place - Winslow Peters of Columbia Falls 5th Place - Layne Alexander of Billings Central/Joliet 6th Place - Bradyn Rate of Frenchtown 1st Place Match Kade Wersland (Laurel) 43-8, Sr. over Koda King (Ronan) 9-2, Jr. (Dec 3-2) 3rd Place Match Reinhard Bold (Havre) 3710, Sr. over Winslow Peters

ELLEN KAPHAMMER PHOTO

Ronan Maiden wrestler River Cote works to pin her opponent beneath her. Cote is the girls state champion at 100 pounds.

(Columbia Falls) 16-10, Jr. (MD 9-1) 5th Place Match Layne Alexander (Billings Central/Joliet) 38-11, So. over Bradyn Rate (Frenchtown) 36-15, Sr. (Fall 3:36) A - 170 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - Landon Bishop of Ronan 2nd Place - Jaden Silha of Dawson County 3rd Place - Beau Mares of Laurel

4th Place - Bruno Pallone of Hardin 5th Place - Deegan Tvedt of Custer Co. (Miles City) 6th Place - Hank Hagenbarth of Beaverhead Co. (Dillon) / Twin Bridges / Sheridan 1st Place Match Landon Bishop (Ronan) 45-3, Sr. over Jaden Silha (Dawson County) 33-6, Jr. (Dec 12-7) 3rd Place Match Beau Mares (Laurel) 41-9, Sr. over Bruno Pallone (Hardin)

Valley Journal

see page 18

St. Ignatius (406) 745-3634

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

Nursing Simulation Lab Instructor

College & Career Readiness Mentor (3 positions open)

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

Nursing Faculty (2 openings) (10 months) Salary Range: $55,935-$65,551 DOEE Closing Date: Dec. 4, 2023; 4:00pm MST

Salary Range: $56,043-$65,430 DOEE Closing Date: Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024; 4:00pm MST To apply you must submit an SKC application, resume and applicable transcripts to Human Resources, P.O. Box 70, Pablo, MT 59855.

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

Valley Journal

February 14, 2024 - 17

Polson boys swim team takes second at state contest

By Summer Goddard / Valley Journal

GREAT FALLS — Polson’s swim team came home with 28 medals and the boys team placed second in state for AB schools for the second year in a row. According to head coach Morgan Zimmer, seven individuals made it to finals to bring medals in all events swim, as well as 3 boys relays and 1 girls relay that also brought medals home.

“Our team had incredible time drops and lifetime beat swims for some,” Zimmer said.

“The sportsmanship and ener-

“The sportsmanship and energy shown by this team is next level.”

- MORGAN ZIMMER, POLSON SWIM TEAM COACH

gy shown by this team to our swimmers in the pool is next level. They had so much fun and swam harder than ever.”

“We went about our state season differently this year as we had open discussion weeks in advance about our best options based on time and even practiced warm-ups as if we were there with the hundreds of competitors,” Zimmer added.

Following the state meet Saturday night, Zimmer said her swim team celebrated with paper plate awards on the bus.

She explained that all the kids make up a funny award for each other and present it with a blurb of how they won it. “Seeing them laugh and cheer each other on in this setting was like one big family,” the coach said.

“The way this team carries themselves and supports one

state wrestling from page 16

33-16, 8th. (TF-1.5 4:42 (19-3)) 5th Place Match Deegan Tvedt (Custer Co. (Miles City)) 19-14, Jr. over Hank Hagenbarth (Beaverhead Co. (Dillon) / Twin Bridges / Sheridan) 40-12, So. (Fall 2:13) G - 100 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - River Cote of Ronan (Girls) 2nd Place - Dani Larson of Manhattan (Girls) 3rd Place - Seri Catt of Billings Senior High School (Girls) 4th Place - Jaelynn Nace of Columbia Falls (Girls) 5th Place - Victoria Tenney of Billings Skyview (Girls) 6th Place - Gracie Murray of Huntley Project (Worden) (Girls) 1st Place Match River Cote (Ronan (Girls)) 33-0, Fr. over Dani Larson (Manhattan (Girls)) 36-4, Fr. (Fall 1:02) 3rd Place Match Seri Catt (Billings Senior High School (Girls)) 28-5, So. over Jaelynn Nace (Columbia Falls (Girls)) 35-14, 18 - February 14, 2024

ELLEN KAPHAMMER PHOTO

Brody Bulette of Polson wins a match at the state wrestling tournament.

So. (Dec 7-4) 5th Place Match Victoria Tenney (Billings Skyview (Girls)) 24-9, Fr. over Gracie Murray (Huntley Project (Worden) (Girls)) 20-13, So. (Fall 2:54) G - 126 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - Meadow Mahlmeister of Lockwood (Girls) 2nd Place - Katie Dolence of Ronan (Girls) 3rd Place - Emma Klingaman of Chinook (Girls) 4th Place - Sophie Grunhuvd

of Butte (Girls) 5th Place - Lucia Schlapfer of Missoula Big Sky / Loyola Sacred Heart (Girls) 6th Place - Ashlynn Kistenmacher of Shepherd (Girls) 1st Place Match Meadow Mahlmeister (Lockwood (Girls)) 33-1, Fr. over Katie Dolence (Ronan (Girls)) 41-4, Sr. (Dec 5-0) 3rd Place Match Emma Klingaman (Chinook (Girls)) 42-9, So. over Sophie Grunhuvd (Butte (Girls)) 25-5, So. (Dec 2-1) 5th Place Match Lucia Schlapfer (Missoula

another on and off deck and seeing these drills ‘click’ at practice and transform them into swimmers is what drives me to coach,” Zimmer shared.

State medaling Polson swimmers include: (boys) August Hertz (senior), Teague McElwee, Truman Sawyer, Lachlan Sloan, Hayden Ricks, Joshua Reed, Isaac Kinnick; (girls) Dixie Montgomery, Adi Montgomery, Amelia Stene and Ana

Big Sky / Loyola Sacred Heart (Girls)) 31-9, Jr. over Ashlynn Kistenmacher (Shepherd (Girls)) 27-4, Jr. (Fall 1:40) Guaranteed Places 1st Place - Paige Gershmel of Billings Senior High School (Girls) 2nd Place - Kaitlyn Thorn of Bozeman (Girls) 3rd Place - Brynn Courville of Ronan (Girls) 4th Place - Yasmine Tatsey-McKay of Browning (Girls) 5th Place - Emily Zachary of Columbus (Girls) 6th Place - Clara Schuele of Helena (Girls) 1st Place Match Paige Gershmel (Billings Senior High School (Girls)) 36-2, Sr. over Kaitlyn Thorn (Bozeman (Girls)) 28-3, Jr. (SV-1 4-2) 3rd Place Match Brynn Courville (Ronan (Girls)) 32-3, Jr. over Yasmine Tatsey-McKay (Browning (Girls)) 32-6, Sr. (Fall 0:46) 5th Place Match Emily Zachary (Columbus (Girls)) 19-7, Jr. over Clara Schuele (Helena (Girls)) 2710, Sr. (Fall 4:04) G - 145 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - Gretchen Donally

Valley Journal

Hertz. Other state swimmers were Kena Sutton, Laurielee Truex and Kyle Alexander.

2024 MHSA State Swim Meet Great Falls High Pool, 25 Yards 6 Lanes *Only results for Polson winners races listed Boys 200 Yard Medley Relay Class AB (A - Final) 1, Billings Central Catholic HS ‘A’ 1:45.97. 2, Columbia Falls High School ‘A’ 1:49.85. 3, Polson High School ‘A’ 1:50.73. 4, Whitefish High School ‘A’ 1:55.55.

5, Havre High School ‘A’ 2:03.00. 6, Hardin High School ‘A’ 2:12.25.

of Huntley Project (Worden) (Girls) 2nd Place - Riley Clampitt of Glasgow (Girls) 3rd Place - McKenna Jones of Conrad (Girls) 4th Place - Joli Beston of Wolf Point (Girls) 5th Place - Harli Kinney of Polson (Girls) 6th Place - Paisley Jaeger of Billings Senior High School (Girls) 1st Place Match Gretchen Donally (Huntley Project (Worden) (Girls)) 37-0, Sr. over Riley Clampitt (Glasgow (Girls)) 35-7, So. (Fall 3:20) 3rd Place Match McKenna Jones (Conrad (Girls)) 34-7, So. over Joli Beston (Wolf Point (Girls)) 37-15, Sr. (MD 8-0) 5th Place Match Harli Kinney (Polson (Girls)) 23-6, Sr. over Paisley Jaeger (Billings Senior High School (Girls)) 33-10, Sr. (Fall 4:30) G - 152 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - Hailey Sutton of Florence-Carlton (Girls) 2nd Place - Trinity Barrus of Custer/Hysham (Girls) 3rd Place - Leona Dodson Howe of Ronan (Girls) 4th Place - Macey Tate of Baker (Girls)

see page 19

5th Place - Haven Ferguson of Billings Skyview (Girls) 6th Place - Mattie Stepan of Butte (Girls) 1st Place Match Hailey Sutton (Florence-Carlton (Girls)) 260, Sr. over Trinity Barrus (Custer/Hysham (Girls)) 27-1, Sr. (Fall 3:29) 3rd Place Match Leona Dodson Howe (Ronan (Girls)) 36-11, So. over Macey Tate (Baker (Girls)) 30-8, 8th. (Fall 2:00) 5th Place Match Haven Ferguson (Billings Skyview (Girls)) 26-6, Jr. over Mattie Stepan (Butte (Girls)) 10-10, So. (Fall 2:50) G - 165 Guaranteed Places 1st Place - KyLee Lindsley of Belgrade (Girls) 2nd Place - Jayda Harbaugh of Baker (Girls) 3rd Place - Torie Jamieson of Billings Senior High School (Girls) 4th Place - Lexi Lunceford of Powell Co. (Deer Lodge) (Girls) 5th Place - Abby Zickefoose of Choteau (Girls) 6th Place - Abighail Sorrell of Polson (Girls)

vj

swim results

1:21.89. from page 18

Boys 200 Yard Freestyle Class AB (A - Final) 1, Shelton, Dylan B, Central, 1:50.02. 2, Hertz, August, Polson, 1:50.51. 3, Sibson, Gavin, Whitefish, 2:00.05. 4, Vandersloot, Nolan, Hardin, 2:06.02. 5, Bates, Teagan, C Falls, 2:10.45. 6, Ramshaw, David, Central, 2:15.62.

Girls 200 Yard IM Class AB (A - Final) 1, Vaira, Teaghan K, Central, 2:23.52. 2, Spini, Sarah M, Central, 2:38.65.

3, Kaline, Taryn, Hardin, 2:43.37. 4, Smith, Liliana M, Havre, 2:46.50. 5, Baker, Lucy, Hardin, 2:53.27. 6, Montgomery, Dixie, Polson, 2:56.33.

Boys 200 Yard IM Class AB (A - Final) 1, Keith, Connor, C Falls, 2:04.87. 2, Johnson, Jonas A, Central, 2:07.38.

3, Sawyer, Truman, Polson, 2:22.78. 4, Molloy, Aidan, Central, 2:28.48. 5, Poling, Joseph A, Central, 2:43.47.

6, Harada, Nolan, Central, 2:51.16.

Girls 50 Yard Freestyle Class AB (A - Final) 1, Elliot, Britton, Havre, 25.86. 2, Longshore, Sway C, East Helena, 26.59.

3, Theis, Avery, Whitefish, 26.74. 4, Kunz, Myah H, Central, 27.50. 5, Stene, Amelia, Polson, 27.71. 6, Prill, Madeline, Central, 28.11.

Boys 100 Yard Butterfly Class AB (A - Final) 1, Apostol, Daniel G, Central, 52.20. 2, McElwee, Teague, Polson, 53.08. 3, Clark, Quinn, C Falls, 1:01.14. 4, Sloan, Lachlan, Polson, 1:03.78. 5, Molloy, Aidan, Central, 1:06.83. 6, Zink, Will, Central, 1:08.34.

Boys 100 Yard Freestyle Class AB (A - Final) 1, Hertz, August, Polson, 49.55. 2, Seitz, Bennett P, Central, 49.57. 3, Piseno, Greyson, Central, 52.61.

4, Brown, Landon, Whitefish, 52.99. 5, Sibson, Gavin, Whitefish, 53.49. 6, Victor, Tristan, C Falls, 56.99.

Boys 500 Yard Freestyle Class AB (A - Final) 1, Shelton, Dylan B, Central, 5:05.41. 2, Piseno, Logan H, Central, 5:46.91.

3, Sawyer, Truman, Polson, 5:58.74. 4, Clark, Quinn, C Falls, 6:08.68. 5, Ramshaw, David, Central, 6:11.32. 6, Hyland, Logan, Whitefish, 7:01.68.

Boys 200 Yard Freestyle Relay Class AB (A - Final) 1, Billings Central Catholic HS ‘A’ 1:31.43.

Girls 100 Yard Butterfly Class AB (A - Final) 1, Early, Kelly A, Central, 1:01.61. 2, Kaline, Taryn, Hardin, 1:10.03.

3, Stene, Amelia, Polson, 1:11.64. 4, Spini, Sarah M, Central, 1:14.52. 5, Carroll, Elizabeth A, Havre, 1:15.31.

6, Baker, Lucy, Hardin,

Boys 100 Yard Breaststroke Class AB (A - Final) 1, Apostol, Daniel G, Central, 59.34. 2, Keith, Connor, C Falls, 1:02.30.

3, Cammon, Micah, Havre, 1:13.19. 4, Ricks, Hayden, Polson, 1:13.94. 5, Pender, John, Central, 1:17.40. --, Hraban, Aedan, Central, DQ.

Flathead Transit

Missoula • Pablo • Kalispell • Whitefish

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Girls 400 Yard Freestyle Relay Class AB (A - Final) 1, Billings Central Catholic HS ‘A’ 4:07.60.

2, Polson High School ‘A’ 4:27.14. 3, Havre High School ‘A’ 4:27.59. 4, Hardin High School ‘A’ 4:35.06.

5, Bigfork High School ‘A’ 4:38.30. 6, Columbia Falls High School ‘A’ 4:40.16.

Bus leaves at scheduled times.

vj

$1.25 Vol. 20, No. 4

Transit app pg. 6

Sports pg. 16

Story and photos

by Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

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

Evaro

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

Arlee

12:00 PM

92345 US Hwy 93, Arlee• 406-726-7777

Flag Stop

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

12:15 PM

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

1:00 PM

52001 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-275-2792

Ravalli

Saint Ignatius Pablo

Polson

1:25 PM

Pumpkins fall from sky at St. Ignatius airport

Unique fundraiser collects money for annual fireworks show

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-

Missoula

1660 W Broadway St • 406-549-2339

11:50 AM

Town council pg. 5

52001 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-275-2792

11:30 AM

Boys 400 Yard Freestyle Relay Class AB (A - Final) 1, Billings Central Catholic HS ‘A’ 3:30.02. 2, Columbia Falls High School ‘A’ 3:44.26. 3, Polson High School ‘A’ 3:54.15. 4, Havre High School ‘A’ 4:41.76.

in beautiful northwest Montana your homegrown newspaper

Pablo

10:00 AM

Family-run Newspaper For Sale October 11, 2023

Boys 50 Yard Freestyle Class AB (A - Final) 1, McElwee, Teague, Polson, 22.21. 2, Seitz, Bennett P, Central, 22.41. 3, Piseno, Greyson, Central, 23.61. 4, Brown, Landon, Whitefish, 24.08.

5, Cammon, Micah, Havre, 24.88. 6, Sloan, Lachlan, Polson, 24.93.

2, Polson High School ‘A’ 1:33.69. 3, Whitefish High School ‘A’ 1:40.88. 4, Havre High School ‘A’ 1:44.39. 5, Columbia Falls High School ‘A’ 1:47.92. 6, Hardin High School ‘A’ 1:50.33.

49708 US Hwy 93, Polson• 406-883-3636

Lakeside

2:10 PM

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

7170 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-844-3372

NEW

w w w.va l le yj ou r na l.net

2:30 PM LOCATION! H

3:10 PM NICOLE TAVENNER PHOTO

• Award-winning weekly newspaper • Well established advertising, subscriber base, website & social media following • 19 years in business • Beautiful place to work & live • QR code links to full listing details

Kalispell / Evergreen

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

Whitefish

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

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

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

406-275-2792 weekdays For more information call Flathead

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

w w w. va l l ey j o u r n a l . n e t

Valley Journal

February 14, 2024 - 19

seniors Polson News from Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — Applications are now being accepted for the position of Program Director for Nutrition, wage DOE. Forms are available at the center.

Shifts are Monday-Friday; 7 a.m.–3 p.m. … full-time cook starting mid-April.

The Polson Senior Center is providing AARP Tax Assistance through April 15 on Mondays or Thursdays. Call for an appointment time: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. or 1-2 or 3 p.m. Pick up your packet and forms and complete 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. Classes begin in early spring; class size may be limited. Sign up soon.

— Bowling: Tuesdays 1 p.m. - lane fee $13 - open group — Bridge: inquire at center.

— VA rep.: first Friday and third Tuesday (Feb. 2 & Feb. 20), walk-in — Bingo: bingo Friday night (6:30 p.m. start); doors open at 6 p.m. $100 blackout - “Playing

Card” bingo first and third Wednesday — Exercise: Sitting or standing: M-W-F, 10:30– 11:30 a.m. – video-assisted guidance - bring a friend — Tai Chi: (slow and relaxing movement exercises for balance and flexibility) classes Jan. 23- Feb. 27 - six weeks on Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m. - fee $30 for non-members, $15 discount for members - register at the center — Pinochle: Thursdays noon-3 p.m.

— Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

— Space is available to host card/board games, study groups, or other small group meetings

HATE YOUR CPAP?

during the day. Call ahead to check on potential conflicts.

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. - sit-down or take-out; call before 10 a.m. for delivery. Call in for grab-n-go.

— Wednesday, Feb. 14: barbecue ribs, baked potatoes, beets, Jell-O salad, Here’s my Heart cookies — Thu.rsday, Feb. 15: Oven baked stew, bread, tater salad, cheesecake — Friday, Feb. 16: sloppy Joes, tater tots, creamy corn, carrot/celery sticks,

pistachio pudding — Monday, Feb. 19; President’s Day potato soup, log cabin biscuits, crooked pasta salad, upside -down cake — Tuesday, Feb. 20: pork chops, rice, gravy, corn, ribbon salad, lemon bars, — Wednesday, Feb. 21: chicken pot pie, biscuit, five cup salad, baked apples, fruit cobbler.

— Thursday, Feb. 22: corn dog, cowboy beans, spaghetti salad, vanilla pudding — Friday, Feb. 23: birthday dinner for lunch, traditional roast pork, cinnamon/apple Jell-O, apple cake We are located at 504

Third Ave. E; 8 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays. Call 406883-4735 or email us at: polsonseniorcenter@ gmail.com. Visit us on Facebook.

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 406745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesday and Friday and by

see page 21

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

Attention Realtors: Consider having your title work done by a locally owned and operated company dedicated to serving both our clients and our community.

Fidelity Title Agency proudly supports our local schools, civic organizations and charities.

Offering alternative sleep apnea treatments.

We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and your clients!

PPO Insurance Accepted

Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation

1-406-883-5544

Title Agency of Lake County

102 1 Ave East • Polson st

20 - February 14, 2024

Fidelity

402 First Street East • Suite 101 Polson, Montana 59860

(406) 883-6051 info@lclandco.com

Montana Land Title Association and American Land Title Association Member

Valley Journal

Seniors

Ronan from page 20

2 p.m. on Wednesday.

Times of meals are listed below. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the Center.

Menu: — Friday Feb. 9: noon chicken, biscuits, peaches, coleslaw, birthday cake — Saturday Feb. 10: bingo with special blackout prize at 2 p.m.

— Tuesday Feb.13: noon - pork stir-fry, cottage cheese, apricots, cherry dessert — Friday Feb. 16: noon stew, fry bread, mixed fruit — Tuesday Feb. 20: noon - ham, scalloped potatoes, rolls, mixed vegetables, cherry dessert If you have an idea that would involve community member that we could have at our St. Ignatius Center. Please bring your idea forward.

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

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

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

Tax information: We have someone on the Feb. 16 that will be able to take four tax units and take them to Ronan or Polson to do them and return them. f you need taxes done call Ronan at 406-676-2371or Polson at 406-883-4735.

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. 14: hamburger vegetable or cream of tomato soup, sandwiches, dessert — Friday, Feb. 16: lasagna, salad, dessert — Monday, Feb. 19: pork enchiladas, salad, dessert — Wednesday, Feb. 21: tator-tot casserole, salad, dessert AARP tax people will be here every Wednesday through April 10, starting Feb. 7. They will prepare taxes for any age, any income. Give us a call to sign up for this great service at 406-6762371.

Dues are due for 2024.

They are $10 per person.

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. 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 call us by 10 a.m. We will gladly send you a menu if requested.

vj

Health Profile: $55 • Includes complete metabolic panel, complete blood count, and thyroid stimulating hormone test • 7:00AM-11:00AM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays (by appointment only) Vitamin D Profile: $35 • Must be fasting: no food or drink except water 10+ hours beforehand • 7:00AM-11:00AM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays (by appointment only) Lipid Profile: $15 • Must be fasting: no food or drink except water 10+ hours beforehand • 7:00AM-11:00AM on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays (by appointment only) Basline EKG: $47 • 7:30AM-11:00AM on Tuesdays & Wednesdays (by appointment only) ALL SCREENINGS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Slots are limited during the month of February…

Call 406-883-8498 or 406-883-8263 to schedule yours today!

Private apartments • 24 Hour Care • Personalized Assistance Beauty Salon / Barber Shop • Housekeeping / Laundry • Activities Call Joel Mohler or Logan Goodin for a tour.

406-883-8970

11 17th Ave. East, Polson, MT

Assisted Living at its finest

Payment is required at time of service. We cannot bill insurance. Cash, check, and all major credit cards accepted. All results will be mailed or available electronically on MyChart.

Valley Journal

February 14, 2024 - 21

births

A huge

Coullie Weible

Rose Drake

RONAN — Coullie Rose Weible was born Feb. 3, 2024, at the St. Luke Community Healthcare New Beginnings Birth Center.

She measured 6 pounds, 7 ounces and 18.5 inches long. Parents are Bailey Weible Coullie and Billie Rae Weible Bartholomew of Charlo. Paternal grandparents are Duane & Janette Weible of Charlo. Maternal grandparents are Max & Ruth Bartholomew of Hot Springs.

RONAN — Rose Elanne Drake was born Jan. 17, 2024, at the St. Luke Community Healthcare New Beginnings Birth Center. She weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces.

Parents are Samantha Bridges and Justin Drake of Pablo. Paternal grandparents are Dwayne Drake and Deanna Drake Rose Drake of Pablo. Maternal grandparents are Tony and Stephany Bridges of Lancaster, Ohio. Rose joins siblings, Rusty, Brody, and Jacob.

briefs

St. Ignatius Rural Fire District Board to meet

ST. IGNATIUS — The St. Ignatius Rural Fire District will hold their regular meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 28, at 6 pm. At the fire hall meeting hall room. For more information, call Chairman Tim Callahan at 406-745-4112.

New children’s book signing event planned POLSON — Join Montana author, Hannah Oswine, on Saturday, Feb. 24, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. for a new children’s book 22 - February 14, 2024

signing event at North Lake County Public Library. The name of her new book is “Different Name, Still the Same.”

Teachers invited to aquatic education workshop in West Glacier News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

KALISPELL — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting a free aquatic education workshop for teachers this spring in West Glacier.

FWP staff will lead a hands-on professional development training built around the

award-winning Project Wild curriculum. Teachers will receive Office of Public Instruction (OPI) Renewal Units for completing the course. The training will draw from FWP’s Aquatic Education Program, including classroom training on fish identification, fish dissection, fish Jeopardy, and water distribution.

The training will be held at West Glacier Elementary School, 160 Old Bridge Road, on May 10 from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Space is limited. For more info or to register, contact Ryan Schmaltz at 406-444-9946 or email: rschmaltz@mt.gov.

“Thank You” to our generous Partners:

Child Development Center- CSKT Bison RangeCSKT Child Support-CSKT DHRD-CSKT Early Foundations Home Visiting-CSKT Families FirstCSKT Food Sovereignty Program-CSKT Tribal Education-CSKT Social Services & Foster Care-CSKT Tribal Health-D’arcy Mcnickle LibraryDPHHS Children’s Special Health ServicesEssential Eats- Families First Learning LabFlathead Lake Massage-Florence Crittenton Family Services-Lake County Tobacco ProgramLincoln County Health DepartmentMassages by Ralenda-Mission Valley PowerMissoula Walmart-Montana Cancer ScreeningNever Alone Recovery Support Services (NARSS)Nurturing Center- Piper Crowe PhotographyProvidence Medical Center-Ozzie’s HaircutsParenting Place-Polson Job Service- Reason to Live Suicide Prevention-Ronan City LibrarySafe Harbor-Salish Kootenai College Extension-Salish Kootenai Nursing ProgramSanders County Health Department-Selis-Qlispe Culture Committee-St. Luke Community HealthcareVoter Registration-Zero to Five Flathead Reservation Lake Co and many more!

Valley Journal

Saturday, February 3rd Salish Kootenai College Gym

calendar Wednesday, Feb. 14 Library holds Grand Reopening Celebration

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

Standing tall

“The Lentil Underground” with Liz Carlisle and David Oien from 6:30-8 p.m.

You must register for this program to receive the online link: http://tinyurl. comthnemzyh. In this presentation you will hear about Montana’s organic agriculture movement. pulse crop revolution.

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.

Friday, Feb. 16 Polson’s 12th annual FLIC Film Festival POLSON — Now in its 12th year, the Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC) screens full-length narrative and documentary features, shorts, animation, and student films from Feb. 16-18.

FLIC 2024 once again offers a diverse selection of domestic and international films, featuring entries from twelve countries as well as many homegrown Montana films.

FLIC 2024 takes place at the Showboat Stadium 6, 416 Main Street, Polson.

Email: contact@flicpolson. com.

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.

Learn to meditate via Zoom ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. Please join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesday, Feb. 14, and on subsequent Wednesdays, for an online meditation class led

by Zen Teacher, Zenku, including meditation instruction, practice, and

Saturday, Feb. 17 MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

A giant evergreen dusted in snow points to blue sky and white clouds.

discussion via Zoom. The classes will be each Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m. We will cultivate and deepen our centering skills and meditation practice during the class. Please join us and take advantage

of this opportunity. 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. 15

Take a polar plunge with your neighbors POLSON — The “Shiver in the River” Polar Plunge will take place on Saturday, Feb. 17, at 1 p.m. at Riverside Park.

Library Network holds virtual program

Free kids’ screening of ‘The Super Mario Bros.

Movie’

ONLINE — The Montana Library Network will hold a virtual program,

POLSON — On Saturday morning at 9:15 a.m. at the Showboat Stadium

Valley Journal

6, 416 Main Street, a free screening of “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” and an egg burrito breakfast will take place courtesy of the Polson Rotary Club.

FLIC holds afternoon mixer POLSON — The Cove Deli & Pizza, 11 Third Ave. W, will host an afternoon mixer with complementary food and additional menu items for purchase at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 17.

Shamrockers provide free music POLSON — The Shamrockers, from the FLIC film 20 Shades of Green, will provide free music at the Durham Kitchen & Cocktails, 49494 Hwy. 93, on Saturday, Feb. 17, at 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 18 Breakfast mixer held at Good Coffee POLSON — A breakfast mixer for FLIC enthusiasts will be held at Good Coffee, 214 Main Street, at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 18. There will be food and drinks available for purchase.

Monday, Feb. 19 Library closed for holiday POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will be closed on Monday, Feb. 19, for President’s Day. see page 24

February 14, 2024 - 23

Calendar from page 23

Wednesday, Feb. 21 Flathead Reservation Fish and Wildlife Board Meeting set FLATHEAD RESERVATION — The Flathead Reservation Fish and Wildlife Board will meet Wednesday, Feb. 21, 2024, from 1-3 p.m. at the Fish, Wildlife & Parks office at 3201 Spurgin Road, Missoula. This meeting will cover enforcement feports, bird hunting regulation updates and a presentation on the MyFWP app. All interested persons are invited to attend.

For more information, contact Stephanie Gillin at Stephanie.gillin@cskt.org or Whisper Camel-Means Whisper.means@cskt.org or by phone at 406-8832888.

Learn to meditate via Zoom ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online medita-

tion classes. Please join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesday, Feb. 21, 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. We will cultivate and deepen our centering skills and meditation practice during the class. Please join us and take advantage of this opportunity. 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. 22 Live accordion music to be played at library POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library’s newly renovated Community Room is the site for the Mission Valley Live Musical Program: Duo Two Accordions. Sergei and Maria Teleshev will perform and teach about

Pet o f

Meet. . .

Twiggi

accordions at 10:30 a.m.

Enjoy a variety of music styles performed by worldclass musicians.

Learn the history of wildland fires in NW Montana KALISPELL — On Thursday, Feb. 22, from 6-8 p.m. in the Arts & Technology Building on campus of Flathead Valley Community College, Rick Trembath of Flathead Forestry & Fire Consulting will provide a picture-based presentation featuring area wildfire history and influences from pre-European Native American times to recent wildfire events.

Learn from historic fire to better anticipate future fire from a FVCC Forest Fire Management Instructor with 56 years of wildland fire experience.

Saturday, Feb. 24

New children’s book signing event planned POLSON — Join Montana author, Hannah Oswine, on Saturday, Feb. 24, from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. for a new children’s book signing event at North Lake County Public Library. The name of her new book is “Different Name, Still the Same.”

Polson Chamber holds Community Awards Banquet POLSON — Get ready to experience the glitz and glamour of Music City right here in Polson!

The Polson Chamber of Commerce invites you to a night of Nashville-inspired celebration at our Community Awards Banquet. The doors open with social time at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. and the awards ceremony at 8 p.m.

the w eek

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.

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

Twiggi

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.

Sponsored by

Bishop Insurance Polson: 302 1st St. W. Ste. 102 • 883-5372 Ronan: 209 Main Street SW • 676-5300

bishopinsurance.com 24 - February 14, 2024

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

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.

contact

or visit our Facebook page!

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.

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.

Twiggi is an adorable 2-year-old male cat. He is an outgoing and affectionate cuddle bug and a total purr box. Come meet Twiggi today!

Mission Valley Animal Shelter call 883-5312

public meetings

Valley Journal

PUZZLES

Word Search Find the hidden Valentine’s Day words.

Answers to puzzles in Classifieds.

QUICKSILVER EXPRESSO TAKE A BREAK!

7 days a week

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

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

675-5000

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

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

Full Service Espresso Bar

GfEsnacks HiU n s!! o o

ge ct sele bevera &

February 14, 2024 - 25

classifieds Announcements Special Notices 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!

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

Employment Help wanted 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 26 - February 14, 2024

travel off-site in performance of duties). Must wear Tribal Government identification and safety apparel when conducting field activities. Required to successfully complete a certified defensive driving course approved by the Department every three (3) years thereafter. 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.

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) 675-2700 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.

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.

Responsible for land location and record searches pertaining to proposed projects.

The successful applicant is required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental

Puzzle Answers

HYDROLOGIC TECHNICIAN/ HYDROGRAPHER I (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 identifica-

(From page 25)

Solution to Word Search

Valley Journal

tion 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. The Flathead Reservation Water Management Board (FRWMB) and the Office of the Water Engineer are seeking two talented, hardworking individuals to join our team. The two positions are

dependent on education and experience, the positions are a Compliance Technician or Water Resource Specialist and a Hydrologist/Hydrogeologist. We are seeking applicants with a positive attitude, excellent communication skills, computer expertise, and can lift up to 25 pounds.

The applicant must have a valid MT driver’s license or the ability to obtain one. General exposure and experience with irrigation systems and water resources is a plus. Possible increased pay for applicants possessing specialized skills pertaining to the position. Our office is in Ronan, MT and our employees work onsite.

Priority screening starts March 1st, 2024 and is open until filled. To apply: submit a letter of interest and resume to contact@frwmb.gov or mail to FRWMB, PO Box 37, Ronan, MT 59864. A full position description is available on the FRWMB website: https:// www.frwmb. gov/employment/.

Please contact us at 406201-2532 or contact@frwmb. gov for more information or questions.

Fund Development Coordinator Terms: 1.0 FTE (full-time), Salary DOE ($46,000$55,000) Benefits: Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Paid Sick Days, see page 27

public notices Help wanted cont’d from pg. 26 Paid Health Insurance, and more.

Deadline: February 26, 2024, or until position is filled.

Start Date: Immediately Position Description: The Blackfoot Challenge is seeking a full-time fund development coordinator.

Responsibilities include managing donor data systems, coordinating individual giving campaigns, and assisting with grant proposals and reporting.

To learn more or to apply, please visit our website at: https://blackfootchallenge.org/ hiring/ TRANSPORTATION SPECIALIST (1 or more Positions) ST. IGNATIUS - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must be 18 years or older with a high school diploma/GED. Possess a current and valid Montana driver’s license and be insurable under the Tribes’ fleet policy. Current physical exam or ability to obtain physical exam upon hire. Current on required immunizations or ability to become current upon hire. Verified of recent TB screening or ability to complete the required screening.

Certification in CPR/First Aid.

Certification in Defensive and Distracted Driving course; or obtain one within 6 months of hire. Certification in Passenger Service and Safety; or obtain one within 6 months of hire. This position is subject to a background check in accordance with Public Law 101-630. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, copy of academic transcripts, certificates and licensure, copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. Failure to submit all of the above information will result in immediate disqualification during the screening process. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy.

The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass a prehire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $15.56 to $17.89 per hour, plus benefits. May be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available on-line at cskt.org. The closing date is Thursday, February 29, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. MST 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.

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

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

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-free at 1-800-

Public Notices Legals Legals NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING HB355 Infrastructure Eligible Projects A public hearing will be held at Ronan City Hall, February 28, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., to approve a Resolution naming proposed local projects under HB355 State-Local Infrastructure Partnership Act. Written and/or verbal comments by any Ronan taxpayer will be accepted at the hearing.

Kaylene Melton, Clerk/Treasurer February 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 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. 23-0464-P NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four (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 Feb. 7, 14 and 21, 2024 MNAXLP 2024 ELECTION RESOLUTION BE IT RESOLVED, the Board of Trust-

ees 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 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 REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL Request for proposal for network hardware and cabling to upgrade aging infrastructure and equip new construction (E-Rate Category 2 proposal).

Polson School District #23 111 4th Ave. E. Polson, MT 59860 Email questions to Nicole Jones at njjrwj@midrivers.com.

The RFP is accessible electronically on the USAC website https://bit.ly/ polsonerate.

Bids will be accepted until February 29th, 2024, or 28 days after the latest posted RFP Amendment, whichever is later.

February 14 and 21, 2024 MNAXLP

Service Directory FOR ALL YOUR ACCOUNTING NEEDS

FIDUCIARY INCOME TAX PREPARATION FINANCIAL STATEMENT PREPARATION QUARTERLY REPORTS INDIVIDUAL AND BUSINESS INCOME TAX PREPARATION BOOKKEEPING PAYROLL

211 Main Street Polson, MT (406) 883-4368 • (406) 883-9250

ADVERTISE HERE!

Drain Tech

Solutions & Sewer Shay Ashley, Owner Operator Drain Cleaning, Sewer Service Camera Services, Effluent Pump Installation

as low as $25 per week

Call Today!

(4-week commitment)

406-241-9134

Call 676-8989 for details Valley Journal

• 24 hour Towing Service • Provide for all major towing clubs • Jump starts, lock outs, fuel delivery 607 3RD AVE NW, RONAN 676-3961 February 14, 2024 - 27

28 - February 14, 2024

Valley Journal