04-10-24 issue

Polson musician releases first EP album

By Shanoah McCool for the Valley Journal

“The mountains to the east have got a hold on my soul,” and “I will never leave Montana” are the lyrics to a song by Polson musician Joe Martinez. Martinez, a 2022 Polson High School alum, recently released his first extended play album on Spotify. His debut album, titled “Montana,” includes some of the very first songs Martinez wrote. Martinez’ love of Montana and the Mission Valley where he grew up are evidenced in the EP’s five songs: “One of These Days,” “Let’s Get to Lovin’,” “Montana,” “Highway 93,” and “Movin’.”

Martinez says his musical inspiration comes from artists like Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Johnny Cash, Marcus King, and Chris Stapleton. Those influences can be heard in his music. His Spotify artist bio describes Martinez as musician “with a soulful voice, dynamic style, heartfelt lyrics and skillful guitar playing.”

Having grown up in a very musical family, Martinez took an interest in music at a very young age. He credits his brother as the person who got him to started on his musical journey

Polson resident Joe Martinez, above, has released his debut album, “Montana” via the digital music service Spotify. see page 2

Polson musician

from page 1

by getting him to join band in the 6th grade. Since then, Martinez has known that playing music is what he wanted to do with his life. In his sophomore year of high school, Martinez found another avenue for music when he joined his high school’s choir. Even though he wasn’t previously interested in singing, choir opened his eyes to a whole new side of musical performance. It was then, that he decided to pick up his dad’s guitar and learn to play.

As a senior in high school, Martinez became the first Polson student to be accepted into the All Northwest Jazz Choir. He joined a local musician’s co-op and began playing music at the Polson Farmer’s Markets and the Ronan Co-op Brewery. He’s now been performing live for three years. In addition to listening to his music through Spotify, Martinez plays every Wednesday at the Finley Point Grill from 6-9 p.m. with his band “Highway 93.”

Area law enforcement involved in shooting incident

News from Sheriff Donald R. Bell

POLSON — On Saturday, April 6, 2024, at about 6:45 p.m., Lake County 911 took the report of a domestic violence incident that had taken place at a residence on Kerr Dam Rd. The victim had left the residence and a relative reported the assault to 911 after seeing the victim’s injuries. Deputies responded to the residence at about 7:30 p.m. and made contact with the suspect, 63-year-old, Rick Riebe, who immediately made threats to shoot the officers. Riebe barricaded himself in the home, continuing to threaten to shoot officers who were attempting to deescalate the situation. Riebe exited the home armed with a shotgun but returned inside barricading himself again. Attempts were made via phone to negotiate with Riebe who refused attempts to resolve the matter peacefully. Flathead County SWAT had

been requested and arrived on the scene at around 10:30 p.m.

Negotiations were continual but fruitless and at 11:30 p.m., chemical agent munitions were deployed inside the residence to compel Riebe to exit the home. Riebe then began repeatedly firing his shotgun and a rifle at various locations where officers were present. No officers were injured, nor did they return fire due to not knowing his exact location in the home. Fifteen minutes later, Riebe exited the residence and was subdued by a K9. Riebe was booked into the Lake County jail on an outstanding warrant, charges of partner or family member assault, assault on an officer, and criminal endangerment. Other charges are pending. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our gratitude to the Flathead SWAT team, and all area agencies who rendered assistance in this dangerous incident.

Attempted escape from Lake County Jail

News from Sheriff Donald R. Bell

POLSON — On April 5, 2024, at around 7 p.m., two inmates in the Lake County Jail assaulted a Lake County detention officer and attempted escape after gaining control of the officer’s

keys. The escape was prevented by another detention officer who was able to secure the inmates.

Additional deputies from the Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Polson Police Department responded to quell further disturbances in the jail and lock all inmates down. The offending

inmates will not be identified at this time due to ongoing investigation and review for criminal charges by the County Attorney’s Office. This information will be forthcoming. The Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our gratitude to the Polson Police Department for their assistance.

Senate President subpoenas ballot initiative from Secretary of State

News from Lyle Schmauch, Communications & Policy Manager, Senate Republicans, MT Legislature

HELENA — Montana Senate President Jason Ellsworth, R-Hamilton, today issued a subpoena to Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen for Constitutional Initiative 14, the proposed ballot issue to put abortion in the state constitution.

Ellsworth’s subpoena comes one day after the Montana Supreme Court suggested in a footnote that the proposed initiative should not go before a legislative committee for a vote on legislative support or opposition. As reported by the Montana Free Press, the Secretary of State’s office noted that the issue of legislative participation was not part of the court’s order, but initiative backers were ar-

guing that the footnote should keep the Legislature from having its usual committee vote on the proposed ballot initiative.

The legislative subpoena seeks to put that issue to rest, bringing the proposed initiative to the Legislature for its committee discussion and vote.

“Yesterday the Montana Supreme Court was effing around in a footnote. Today they’re finding out what the Legislature thinks of that,” Ellsworth said. “As I said yesterday, the lawmaking branch of government needs to have a voice in proposed laws regardless of where they originate. I look forward to the Secretary of State complying with the subpoena so the Legislature can proceed with having a committee vote on whether to support or oppose Constitutional Initiative 14.”

COURTESY PHOTO

Joe Martinez, left, regularly performs live with his band “Highway 93,” at the Finley Point Grill.

This Week’s Weather Forecast

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approves lake level variation

News from Energy Keepers, Inc

POLSON — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) approved a request from Energy Keepers, Inc (EKI) to deviate from the Flood Risk Management plan by allowing for a higher spring lake level than usual. Typically, each spring, the water level is taken down to 2883’ levels.

The requested change, approved March 25, would raise the flood risk management elevation on April 15 from 2883’ to 2885’ range. The established Flood Risk Management is dictated by a 1965 Memorandum of Understanding with the USACE. The deviation increases the probability of lake refill in June, however, the flood risk is minimal.

Boat slips at Polson

Lake will likely be in the 2888’-2891’ range at the end of May.

About Energy Keepers, Inc:

The summer flows in 2023 remain among the driest seen in the history of the lake, a pattern that forecasters are seeing

“It is expected that this relaxation would have minimal risk based on modeling an analysis of current conditions,” states the letter from the USACE.

continuing into 2024. Flathead Lake began refilling operations earlier this year to respond to precipitation and hydrological trends.

“By taking these actions early in the season we increase the likelihood Flathead Lake will

reach its maximum elevation in what forecasters are predicting as another dry year,” said Brian Lipscomb, EKI CEO. “Should we experience unforeseen precipitation then we can make further adjustments. By May, we are prepared to

make further changes to standard operations depending on weather conditions.”

EKI staff conduct frequent analysis and projections of hydrological conditions to ensure top management practices and actions. Flathead

Democratic legislators host listening session in Pablo

News from Gaby Krevat

PABLO — Montanans from several communities spoke to Democratic state legislators participating in a listening session at the end of March at Salish Kootenai College.

CSKT member and former State Health Director Anna Whiting Sorrell facilitated the meeting and asked legislators to draft a bill to continue Medicaid expansion.

Senators Susan Webber (D-Browning), Shane Morigeau (D-Missoula), Mary Ann Dunwell (D-East Helena) and Representative Mary Caferro (D-Helena) wholeheartedly agreed and said Medicaid expansion will likely be the top topic next legislative session in 2025.

“Last legislative session we started with $1.8 billion in surplus, much of it wasted,” said Representative Cafero. “People’s

health is the best investment we can make. As we’re hearing tonight and have heard all across the state – Medicaid expansion is a priority for Montanans.”

One Polson resident shared his concerns about local social safety net services being outsourced to Maximus Inc., a for-profit, global government contractor.

“It’s upsetting that Governor Gianforte’s DPHHS is contracting with an out-of-state

company to fulfill social support services, said Craig McClure, a resident of Polson. “They are wiping out these services,” McClure added.

Last month, Career Training Institute in Helena and Career Futures in Butte announced they would be closing their doors after decades of providing employment assistance and job training for thousands of low-income Montanans receiving SNAP food services and

Energy Keepers, Inc (EKI) is a federally chartered corporation created and wholly owned by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) of the Flathead Reservation, pursuant to Section 17 of the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934. As well as developing economically, CSKT is nationally recognized as leaders amongst Tribal nations for exercising their sovereign powers to preserve and protect cultural, wildlife, and natural resources of their traditional homeland now and for future generations. CSKT and EKI are the co-licensees of FERC Project No. 5, the Seli’š Ksanka Qlispe’ Project located on Tribal Land six miles below the natural outlet of Flathead Lake on the Lower Flathead River.

TANF cash assistance.

The Pablo meeting was the 12th stop in the Democratic Legislative Listening Tour. The Legislative Listening Tour kicked off in Great Falls last summer and has made additional stops in Belgrade, Fort Peck, Miles City, Laurel, Red Lodge, Lewistown, Havre, Arlee and Ronan. Down the road, the Montana Democratic Party will release a report based on what lawmakers learn.

BOONE GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Bay Marina will soon be utilized as Flathead Lake water levels rise with the spring snowmelt. Last summer’s low water levels, nearly three feet below full pool, required early season removal of boats from this marina and others.

Snowy February weather tapers off

More snow is needed to improve this summer’s water supply outlook

News from USDA

BOZEMAN — Given the lack of precipitation from November through most of January in Montana, above normal precipitation was needed over the last couple of months. “February did provide well above normal precipitation to nearly all of Montana and those weather patterns continued into the first week of March across the state,” said Eric Larson, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Water Supply Specialist. What seemed to be the beginning of a potential recovery only tapered off in many basins. Overall, precipitation during March was above normal in southwest and southern Montana, but below normal elsewhere.

“The good news is the southern Absaroka and Wind River region has received near normal precipitation this season, as a result the Bighorn River basin snowpack is 95% of normal,” said Larson. In contrast, snowpack percentages are currently about 55-65% of normal in the Sun-TetonMarias, Smith-Judith-Musselshell, Upper Clark Fork, and Powder River basins. All other river basins in Montana have about a 70-85% of normal snowpack. “Keep in mind that the lowest April 1 snowpack percentages since 1991 are about 50-70% of normal. One example is the Gallatin which currently has a 76% of normal snowpack. The lowest April 1 snowpack percentage since 1991 was 73% in 2001, which is not too far off from this year and also 2022,” said Larson.

Ideally the mountain snowpack in Montana reaches its peak level some time from mid-April to early-May. Several lower elevation SNOTEL

stations experienced melt over the last couple weeks indicating that portion of the snowpack has potentially peaked for the season. Additional accumulation in the coming months could bring a higher peak, but given the low snow year it has been, loss of snowpack this early is not ideal. Furthermore, the snow water equivalent deficit at the highest elevations is 1013 inches behind normal for April 1. “It is not likely those deficits will be recovered this season, and without a significant shift in weather patterns, Montanans should prepare for below normal snowmelt driven runoff this season,” said Larson.

April 1 water supply forecasts currently trend with water year precipitation and the resulting snowpack. Given both are currently below normal at most locations, so are most forecasts. “In general, April through July streamflows are forecasted to be about 70-85% of normal in Montana. There are some exceptions including a couple pockets of northwest, southwest, and southern Montana. In those locations water year precipitation has been closer to normal, and as a result water supply is forecasted to be closer to normal,”

Commerce awards $50,000 Tribal Tourism Grant to Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes

Funding to enable repairs and upgrades to The Bison on Flathead Lake

said Larson. Locations of greatest concern include the Teton, Shields, Nevada Creek, Bighole, Musselshell, Little Bighorn, Blackfoot, Smith, Sun, Clark Fork and Tongue River, which are forecasted to have less than 65% of normal total runoff volume during the April through July time period.

“Given the widespread lack of snow and less than ideal water supply forecasts, above normal precipitation over the next couple of months and a slow release of the snowpack is needed for the upcoming runoff season,” said Larson. A wet summer could also help to sustain closer to normal streamflows later in the summer. Currently NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center weather outlook indicates near normal precipitation is likely over the next 8-14 days, but there are equal chances of either below normal or above normal precipitation over the next month.

A full report of conditions on April 1 can be found in the monthly Water Supply Outlook Report available on the Montana Snow Survey website. In addition, real-time snow survey data can be found at: nrcs.usda.gov/ montana/snow-survey.

HELENA — The Montana Department of Commerce announced recently that $50,000 of grant funding has been awarded to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes for repairs and upgrades to The Bison on Flathead Lake. The grant funding is through Commerce’s Tribal Tourism Grant (TTG) program and will be used for repairs and upgrades to the waterfront vacation rental property.

“Commerce encourages each of Montana’s tribes to submit competitive projects to improve, enhance or create long-term tourism offerings to their nations,” said Paul Green, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce. “The Bison on Flathead Lake will utilize the grant funding to repair and enhance the property so it can continue offering memorable vacation stays to guests who come to experience the Flathead Reservation and Polson areas.”

The TTG program operates on a reimbursement system with a 50 percent tribal matching requirement. Eligible projects are required to be shovel-ready and demonstrate a long-lasting investment on the part of the State and the Tribe.

“The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes deeply appreciate the Montana Department of Commerce’s Indian Country Tribal Tourism program for this grant,” said Janet Camel, Planning Director, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. “This award, along with tribal funds, allows us to make necessary property improvements and upgrades to capitalize on the thriving tourism market that exists on Flathead Lake. We welcome the opportunity to help visitors learn more about the rich tribal cultural and natural resources of the Flathead Reservation.”

To learn more about the Office of Indian Country Economic Development programs, visit: business.mt.gov.

PHOTO COURTESY U.S. FOREST SERVICE, IAN BARDWELL ON MARCH 26, 2024

A handful of stations at lower elevations were already snow-free on April 1.

News from the Montana Department of Commerce

2024 Spring Mack Days week 3 results announced

FLATHEAD LAKE

— After three weekends of fishing beneath the snowcapped Mission Mountains on Flathead Lake, our Spring Mack Days anglers’ total lake trout count stands at 13,417. Totals from previous years’ 3-week mark are: 2023 - 11,315 entries, 2022 - 9,039 entries, 2021 - 11,135 entries, 202012,925 entries, and 2019 -13,622 entries. This year’s anglers are amazing fishermen and women who put in countless hours, money, and effort making the event successful.

Mack Days Fishing

ated Salish and Kootenai Tribes that will be awarded at the conclusion of the entire event to the many hard-working anglers. Entries continue to be taken until the last day of the event. Enter at the end of the day or send your entry with name, mailing address, telephone number and age to: cindy.benson@ cskt.org. We apologize, our mackdays.com website is not currently functioning.

$500 values. These fish are the ones that anglers like to see at the end of their lines. Turning in tagged fish the third week were: Travis Banyai of Kalispell with $500 and turning in $100 tags were Tyler Varga, Matthew Mitts, Brodie Smith, Luke Smith, Collin Mitts, all Kalispell anglers, and Missoula angler, Jack Colyer.

Events are sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and are sanctioned by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. The fishing events are a management tool used to reduce the non-native lake trout population in Flathead Lake.

Increasing the native bull trout and westslope cutthroat is important for the future of Flathead Lake

fisheries by helping to sustain populations of the bull trout and westslope cutthroat into the future. There are up to $225,000 in cash and prizes sponsored by the Confeder-

Leto, “hidden one,” the $10,000 tagged lake trout is still eluding the anglers along with 3 - $5,000, and 6 - $1,000 (one sponsored by Bretz RV and Marine) tagged lake trout as well as over 9,000 with $100 and

Anglers’ rods were busy Friday and Saturday bringing in a few high lake trout numbers the first two days of the weekend. Friday the total was 1,390. Kalispell anglers Kolton Turner and Jason Mahlen had 100 entries

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

Flathead Lake on a recent spring day.

Mack Days

from page 7

each. Saturday’s total came in at 1,723-Kolton again had a 100 fish day. Sunday numbers were down with many anglers coming off the rough water early. Sunday’s total was 850. The weekend total came to 3,963. Every lake trout entry counts. Anglers come in with 1 to 100 lake trout and every fish counts. Lottery prizes are drawn using the angler’s daily counts. Each fish is entered into a file by using the angler’s ID number and random drawings are done using a computer app.

Kolton Turner is in first place in the Top Twenty category with 875,in 2nd

Join free Buttercup Run

ARLEE — Friends of Arlee School, Inc. is teaming up with CSKT Tribal health to continue the muchloved Buttercup Run. This year will be a transition year as the baton is being passed to CSKT Tribal Health. The timed race will be back in 2025 and it will still benefit the same great cause. The 1-mile, 5-K, 10-K Free Fun Run will begin at 10 a.m. at the Arlee Community Fitness Center on Saturday, April 27. All ages are welcome. Strollers are welcome. No dogs please. Register at: forms.office. com/r/hTTmgMPLv5

place is Bob Turner of Kalispell with 760, in 3rd place is Jason Mahlen with 705, in 4th place is Jerry Benson of Plains with 508, in 5th place is Clint Spee of Kalispell with 501, in 6th place is Jake North of Denton with 455, in 7th place is Tyler Varga of Kalispell with 442, in 8th place is Gene Corne of Kalispell with 426, in 9th place is Ken Varga of Kalispell with 425, in 10th place is Mike Benson of Lonepine with 390, in 11th place is Bryan Long of Kalispell with 340, in 12th place is Travis Banyai of Kalispell with 331, in 13th place is Felix Gauci of Stevensville with 307, in 14th place is Larry Ashwell of Missoula with 299, in 15th place is David

Kelch of Great Falls with 284, in 16th place is Larry Ludahl of Kalispell with 276, in 17th place is Dan Deutschman of Missoula with 265, in 18th place is Brodie Smith of Kalispell with 226, in 19th place is Jack Kirkland of Missoula with 205, and in 20th place is Joe Minnehan of Kalispell with 193. Youth anglers who fish in the event are exceptional young men and ladies spending many hours on the water, loving what they are doing. Youth angler Eli Yang from Missoula is leading the 12 & under category with 31 entries. Mason Cusker of Bigfork is in 2nd place with 4, and Gage Spring of Alberton and James Kuchera of Kalispell each have 2.

The 13-17 category has Brodie Smith of Kalispell leading with 226 entries, he is currently in18th place in the Top Twenty, Kennedy Yang of Missoula is 2nd with 31, Lane Braza of Missoula is 3rd with 14, Matthew Mitts of Kalispell has 12, and Lucia Savoia of Missoula has 1. Thank you for supporting Mack Days.

Lady angler Julie Perkins of Kalispell is leading the ladies with 92, Shirley Batz of Kalispell is 2nd with 31, Melissa Triano of Bigfork is in 3rd with 24, Connie Jones of Kalispell is tied for 4th with Rebecca Spring of Alberton, each with 15.

First day of the Bucket Days was won by Collin and Matthew Mitts with a bucket weight of 19.15,

in 2nd is Lyndon Lee of Kelowne, British Columbia, with 19.0, in 3rd Rick Skates of Big Arm with 16.95. The second day of the Bucket Competition is Saturday April 20th. Anglers put their four largest/heaviest fish under 30 inches on the scale and a weight is taken.

Kolton Turner has turned in the smallest lake trout so far at 166mm (6.5”). He also has the second smallest lake trout at 175mm (7”).

Weekend 3 drawing winners were: $200 for Kolton Turner and $100 for Kolton Turner, Shane Salminen of Eureka, Eric Lechleitner of Missoula, and Jeff Hale of Lolo.

Warming spring weather is on its way; come out and join in. Help save the

native fish populations in Flathead Lake for future generations.

We would like to send out a big “Thank You” to Lake County Search & Rescue for giving a disabled boat a tow off the lake Sunday. Safety is a big consideration for the anglers, and they provide help when needed. It is greatly appreciated.

We remind anglers to be weather wise when fishing on Flathead Lake. Have the proper safety equipment on board, wear your PFD’s-life vests, keep cell phones dry, and let someone know your fishing plan. Be safe out there.

Good luck and tight lines everyone! vj

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

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

Journey to Wellness Project Director

Salary Range: $44,310 - $46,656 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Accounting Technician II-Business Office

Salary Range: $14.80-$15.67 per hour DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Nursing Simulation Lab Instructor

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

Closing date: Open Until Filled

Nursing Faculty (10 months)

Salary Range: $55,935-$65,551 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Director of Office Institutional Advancement

SKC Foundation Department

Salary Range: $56,043-$65,430 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center-Toddler Teacher (9.5 months)

Salary Range: $15.33/hr-$17.24/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

IT/Computer Science Faculty

Salary Range: $44,670-$45,719 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Custodian Part-time

Salary Range: $14.80/hr

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Bookstore Team Leader

Salary Range: $34,923-$36,096 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, April 8, 2024; 4:00 pm MST

Custodial Services Team Leader

Salary Range: $16.97/hr

Closing Date: Monday, March 25, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Security Officer Part Time

Salary Range: $12.57 - $13.84/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

College & Career Readiness Coach (2 postions open)

Salary range: $17.35/hr-$20.17/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

College & Career Readiness Mentor (2 positions open)

Salary Range: $17.35/hr-$20.17/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center-Assistant Teacher (9.5 months)

Salary Range: $15.01/hr-$16.92/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

NYCP College & Career Readiness Instructor (Part time, 9 months)

Salary Range: $25.01/hr-$29.63/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Director of Grants and Contracts

Salary Range: $59,563 - $63,083 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, March 18, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Accounting Tech/Receptionist

Salary Range: $14.48 - $15.12/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Project Coordinator-Wildlife & Fisheries

Salary Range: $39,616 - $44,310 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, March 11, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Institutional Research Analyst

Salary Range: $45,483-$47,830 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Childcare Center Cook-Early Learning Center (9.5 months)

Salary Range: $15.65-$16.92/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, April 1, 2024; 4:00 pm MST

The Nursing Department is actively seeking adjunct nursing faculty who are excited about teaching and student learning. Adjunct nursing faculty will hold a minimum of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree from both an accredited nursing program and college. If a BSN prepared nurse is currently enrolled in a master’s program, they will be considered as a qualified applicant. Any person seeking adjunct employment please send a completed SKC application, resume, and unofficial transcripts to Teresa Sias at teresa_sias@skc.edu. Official transcripts will be required upon hire.

valley views

What is the Right to Know, and why should you care?

Uncovering one of Montana’s most underutilized—and misunderstood— citizen rights

Did you know that you have a constitutional Right to Know?

The Right to Know appears alongside your right to Freedom of Speech, Right to Bear Arms and Right of Suffrage in the Montana Constitution, and it is every bit as important. Under the Right to Know, you have a right to request public information from your state and local governments.

When Montanans

Valley Views

By Jacob Linfesty, Montana Transparency Project

exercise their Right to Know by submitting public information requests, it increases government transparency, improves government officials’ responsiveness to citizens, and boosts citizens’ confidence and satisfaction in their government. Moreover, direct participation in democracy is a part of our heritage: from ballot initiatives, to our citizen legislature, to the Right to Know, Montanans are active participants in government. It’s easy to wax poetic about government transparency and creating a government of the people, by the people, for the people. But the Right to Know doesn’t just exist on paper, and it isn’t just

letters

Water availability tied to climate change, not management

Editor, April 2nd brought us another letter from another lakeshore owner who feels the government agency that oversees how our lake’s dam has been mismanaged points out the obvious.

Of course someone as self-centered as a governmental agency (federal to boot) is more con-

something for those who care about politics or the law.

The Right to Know is for sportsmen to inquire about why access was denied to a stream.

The Right to Know is for parents to learn about school board decisions that affect their student’s education.

The Right to Know is for ranchers to ask about new state regulations that change how they do business.

The Right to Know is for anyone, including you, to take action and to help create better government in Montana.

Unfortunately, exercising this right can be complicated and confusing. Murky questions about how to write and submit requests dissuade many from even attempt-

cerned with adhering to regulations and other needs for the water below the dam.

If only they would consider how difficult it is to have to get a boat a few yards down to the water from nearby dry land and not be able to enjoy recreational activities in any other manner than maybe using a “public” access point perhaps they would see the real way to manage the water flow.

I too agree that “manufactured

ing to make an information request in the first place. The Montana Transparency Project is here to provide answers.

So, who are we? We are five young Montanans who love our state constitution and want to protect its promises—including the Right to Know—for our generation and for future generations. Each of us has worked in the Right to Know space over the years, and we are united in the common goal of preserving and promoting this invaluable privilege that so strongly encourages government transparency. We founded the nonpartisan Montana Transparency Project to assist Montanans with the information request process, to spread awareness about the Right to

public safety concerns” that are “disingenuous at best” should give way to how best to serve all the needs of those for water below our dam.

In our time living here I have never seen a need for anyone to have to “escape” down their boat ramp to avoid a fire. I also agree that those that represent those living on the lake’s edges  are not a small group. Or does that include year-round residents or those whose homes are vacant

Know, and to otherwise ensure that this constitutional provision remains accessible to all.

Every month we’ll be writing here about your Right to Know, why it matters, and how you can get involved yourself.

If you have questions or suggestions for us, let us know at info@montanatransparencyproject.org. We would love to hear from you.

We believe that empowering Montanans to civically engage through information requests will help create a more responsive and open government that will better serve the needs of our state. So, what do you want to know?

Visit our website at montanatransparencyproject.org. If you have

questions, comments, column topics you’d like us to address, or if you want to submit your own information request, contact us at info@montanatransparencyproject.org and we would be happy to help.

often during the year, particularly in winter months?

Perhaps it comes down to the other issue; race. The end of a contractual term that granted them the right to control the dam within guidelines was well known and made without prejudice.

Selfish and prejudice attitudes is what put their organization together. Not reality. Water avail-

Where is the snow?

After last year’s deep winter, this season has come as a shock, and many of us are wondering “Where is the snow?”

Skiing injuries have been prevalent, and with the lack of powderhound tourism, small mountains have been struggling.

While wetter snows have come to save the spring season at Jackson Hole, other outfits like White Pine and Snowy Range are relying heavily on man-made snow. Others had to close.

Skiers and ski resort owners say they’re losing out on skiing and business. This not only

affects the mountains but also local retailers and restaurants. These mountain town economies are acutely feeling the effects of climate change.

Changing snowpack is just one of the realities of climate change recognizable here in Wyoming and Montana. Low and inconsistent snowpack not only affects our ski and snowmobiling seasons but also greatly impacts our watersheds. This harms our seasonal outdoor industries, our farmers and ranchers, and the landscapes we all know and love. These are a huge part of our economies,

All hills go down

Yesterday the TV was playing in the background and I thought I heard Homer Simpson say one of what I thought was the most prolific quotes of all time.

“Why can’t all hills go down?”

a good one at that.

And here is the truth.

(Are you ready, Homer?)

Slices of Life

Jill Pertler Syndicated columnist

This gave me cause to pause. Homer certainly has a point. Why do hills have to go up? Doesn’t that just make things harder?

I smile writing this.

Why can’t all hills go down is the question, and

and they’re also the most vulnerable to natural disasters and changing weather patterns.

Nevertheless, we can strategically apply existing technologies to adapt to a changing climate in our lifetimes. There are a variety of solutions available to us now that allow individuals to take charge of their climate impacts instead of relying on environmental regulations.

As communities and individuals, we can reduce our impact on local ecosystems and the pollution that development can bring with it.  Policies that would benefit the ski and other outdoor industries would also benefit agriculture and wildlands management.

Healthy forests are vital for the recreation industry, a key part of Montana’s and Wyoming’s economies. We can urge Congress to allow landowners and agencies to manage our forests for wildfire prevention and climate resiliency. Healthy forests are important to people and communities living in and among the forests.

Living in these settings depends on moisture. Around here most of the year’s moisture comes from snow. Low snow years impact wildfire season, beetle kill, and hunting and fishing. When there’s not enough water, we all feel the impacts.

To benefit agricultural producers and forest owners, policymakers

can provide resources to them through the crafting of the Farm Bill this year. Farmers, ranchers, and foresters have imperative knowledge of local climates and how best to adapt their land to these changes. Through their responsible management, farms, ranches, and forests can become thriving ecosystems that provide for nature and society.

In the Mountain West, we can try to work with the changing patterns and prepare ourselves resiliently for the future.  We move forward carefully balancing the risks with the joy of working and recreating in the outdoors.  As some say, while there is no silver bullet, there is silver buckshot to solving climate change.

Hattie Hobart is based out of Bozeman and Jackson and serves as the Western Regional Director for the American Conservation Coalition, the largest youth right-of-center grassroots environmental organization in the country. See: www.acc.eco

Madeline Dalrymple is a volunteer with republicEN.org and the Wyoming state coordinator for Citizens’ Climate Lobby (see www.cclusa. org), a nonpartisan, volunteer-powered advocacy organization.

Alex Amonette lives in southeastern Montana, volunteers with Citizens’ Climate Lobby, and advocates for healthy forests and carbon pricing.  See cclusa.org

All hills do go down. On both sides. Every day. 24/7.

All hills go down. It just depends on your perspective on the matter. Or, perhaps better put, where you are coming from - or going to.

If you are at the top of the hill, no matter which way you look, your hill gestures downward.

If you are at the bottom of the hill, the opposite is

true.

For most of life, we go up and and we go down in equal increments. That’s physics - and gravity. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Physically, yes. Mentally, no.

Because climbing a hill can be just as easy and rewarding as descending one. Going up can be equally as beneficial as sliding down. It’s all how you see it.

It’s all how you experience it. Ups and downs. Downs and ups.

All hills go down. But they also go up. The same hill may be headed both

ways at any given day or moment, depending on who is climbing or descending.

This is because the hills themselves don’t change.

Read that again. The. Hills. Don’t. Change.

We do.

We change. Our perspective changes.

It’s up to us. And only us.

A glass that is half full or half empty. Skies mostly blue or partially cloudy.

ValleyHattieViews Hobart American Conservation Coalition

Madeline Dalrymple, Alex Amonette Citizens Climate Lobby

American Democracy vs. Fascist Autocracy

Liberty – Equality – Democracy: America and Americans are defined by their dedication to these founding principles--ideas that were fostered by the Enlightenment philosophers of the late 17th - 18th centuries, the Age of Reason, and enshrined in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution.

Our Declaration and Constitution are secular documents. There is no invocation of a higher power. Trust in reason would guide American government and law. That would avoid the philosophical and theological questions that vexed humankind for thousands of years--humankind’s confusion, speculation, and quarrels about the existence of God, the nature of God, and what God wants.

Engaging in abstract theological debates would not be the business of American government. And so, the founders separated government and religion. The US government would focus on the natural world and the concerns of the people. And America would be secular, accepting all religious faiths but endorsing none.

Unfortunately, Christian Evangelicals fail to appreciate the genius of the founders and our Declaration and Constitution. They have invented a mythical history of the founding, which wrongly preaches that America is a Christian nation. They

believe their faith trumps reason and other religions as well. And they insist that everyone conform to their world view especially their views on abortion, homosexuality, gender equality and, in the case of the White Christian Nationalists, racial equality.

The majority of Americans accept that racial and gender equality are basic human rights, as is the right to abortion, with some restrictions. They accept that homosexuality and gender dysphoria are not choices but natural inclinations, and that people have a right to live the life they choose. No one is required to exercise these rights, but everyone should tolerate those who do.

Toleration is not the strong suit of Christian fundamentalists. Unwilling to abide by the will of the majority, they no longer view democracy as a blessing but see it as evil. And so, they would prefer autocracy and a strongman who would force the majority to comply with their archaic world views.

But the crucial question is this; how can one deny equality, freedom and democracy and claim to be an American?

For more than 50 years, I enthusiastically supported the traditional Republican party, the party that championed individual responsibility, limited gov-

Peace Voice

ernment, and democracy. Conservative Republicans like Barry Goldwater believed that decisions regarding abortion were the responsibility of individuals, not government. And they fought fearlessly against fascism and autocratic rule, as demonstrated by Ronald Reagan in Berlin when he told Gorbachev, “Tear down this wall.”

But the traditional party has been undermined by the religious right. Evangelical Republicans applaud ruthless dictators like Putin. And they reject the founding principles. Yet they wrap themselves in the stars and stripes, disgracing the American flag. There is great irony here. With their nationalistic zeal for a mythical America of their imagination, Christian fundamentalists have created an American fascism.

With a very few exceptions like Liz Cheney, Mitt Romney and Adam Kinzinger, Republican leaders embrace a wouldbe autocrat, Donald Trump, abandoning democracy and the founding principles. They have become domestic enemies of the nation they swore to defend and claim to love.

But those who believe in the founding principles cannot and will not let this misguided party compromise the American experiment. This election will

not be party against party, but American democracy against fascist autocracy.  American democracy will triumph for the downside of a Trump autocracy is painfully clear. There would be no Turning Back

When Harry Truman left the White house in 1953, he congratulated Eisenhower and boarded a train to his home in Missouri, mingling with other passengers along the way. Trump is no Truman. He is a grifter and aspires to become America’s Putin. In his attempt to hold power and remain in the White House, he tried to rig the last election and led an insurrection. If elected he will try again, but better prepared, using the Heritage Foundation’s “Project 2025” as a road map.

Autocrats stay in power. Sure, there are electoral autocracies, like Russia and Hungary. But their elections are shams. Putin, for example, has no political rivals. Anyone who seriously challenges his policies is imprisoned. The case of Alexei Navalny, who was a champion of liberal democracy, is particularly egregious. In February Putin murdered Navalny. Putin and his government are corrupt. He began his career as a lowly KGB agent, came to power in 1999 and has reigned supreme for 24 years, amassing a $200 billion fortune at the expense of the Russian people.

Income Inequality will Increase

Autocracies and oligarchs go hand in hand. Wealth concentrates with a few individuals. Society will comprise two classes, the super-rich and the rest of the nation. Wealth inequality, already a growing problem in the United States, will increase. More tax reductions favoring the rich will be enacted under the guise of stimulating economic growth, though that promise has failed repeatedly. To compensate for lost revenue, government programs that benefit the poor and middle class will be eliminated.

Social Security and Medicare and the Affordable Care Act are targeted. It is also telling to compare the personal wealth of people living in liberal democracies to those living in autocracies. The median net worth of citizens of America, England, France, Germany, Canada, and Denmark is 10 times greater than the median of citizens in Russia, Belarus, Hungary, China, Turkey and India. How could one believe sacrificing liberal democracy for autocratic rule would benefit anyone other than oligarchs?

Rights Will be Restricted

Trump takes credit for the overturn of Roe V. Wade, which took away a Constitutional right for the first time in history. It was not that he was against abortion; he wanted to reward evan-

gelical supporters. Next in the Evangelical scheme is a nationwide abortion ban. And it will not end with abortion. Texas evangelicals now want to outlaw contraception. To appreciate what else is in store, look to DeSantis’ Florida and his anti-woke agenda banning programs and books that address Black history, diversity and equality, and LGBTQ personhood. Evangelicals are intent on reversing human progress and end freedom as we know it.

Compared to autocracy, living in a liberal democracy is a blessing. To be sure, there are problems within our Republic. But American democracy has solved difficult problems for 250 years. And we can do that now. But our elected officials must be true Americans, men and women who believe in democracy, freedom and equality and are willing to work toward common goals. Compromise is essential. But that is something the MAGA Republicans refuse to do. The obvious solution to this problem is to vote these misguided people out, and vote real American patriots in.

The United States is the original modern democracy. The past eight years of watching Trump, including four years suffering under his dictatorial wannabe rule, show us what we have to lose.

Bob Topper, syndicated by PeaceVoice, is a retired engineer.

Bob Topper ssyndicated columnist

All hills

from page 11

Life starting at 40 or just beginning.

Hills going up or down.

Take your pick, because it is your choice.

It’s a choice each of us makes. Every day: to put one foot in front of the other and believe we are moving down the hill - whether gravity is against us or not. Belief in where we are going is half the battle.

More than half.

We climb and we descend, and in-between we breathe and grow. We see the sun rise

letters

from page 10

ability is more about nature and climate changes and lives lived along the flow to the Columbia River and then to the sea. All have needs and wants and lives tied to it. All suffer the same with reduced flows, most

and set, the moon go through her cycles. The world changes and we keep moving - up and down, down and up.

Through it all, we find our truth in what surrounds us. Is the hill leading us upward, or downward? Was today easyor hard? What will tomorrow bring?

How will we choose to perceive that?

Why can’t all hills go down?

I guess it’s a rhetorical question because they all do. They already do.

At the start of this column, I posed this question from Homer Simpson. But you know what? I can’t find this

don’t just attempt to take more than their fair share.

Rich Bell Polson

A must watch film Editor, I just finished watching a documentary that came

particular quote anywhere on the Internet, so perhaps it’s the Mandela effect, or I made it up, or something even weirder than that.

Either way, having all hills go down is worth a thought - or even two, because if you learn to see life that way, maybe the hills you face will change their slope and their scape.

Thanks, Homer.

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.

out a couple of weeks ago – “The Cold Truth.”

It was the very best I have seen. Regardless of your stance on global climate change, you need to watch this  video.

Just do a search using the keywords “The Cold Truth Video” and links

Bogner promises to protect MT values, morals

Dvj

will come up. I watched it on a YouTube link. Every adult and high school student needs to watch this, even if you do it in segments. It will be well worth  your time. And pass it on.

John Meinders St. Ignatius

vj

Legislative Notes

uring my second tour to Iraq as a U.S. Marine, my unit was tasked to help secure the Syrian border. We had received intel that Iran was sending weapons into Syria to smuggle across the border for use against American troops. At the same time, refugees from all over the country were flooding the border to escape the war. We successfully accomplished the mission of securing the border that deployment. It is an absolute shame the Biden administration will not do the same and is allowing an unsecure southern border in our very own country.

As my military service was coming to an end, my younger brother joined. He was wounded a few years later in Afghanistan when

an IED was detonated only a few feet from him. He spent days in a German hospital not expected to make it. With a lot of prayer my brother survived. I have friends I served with who were not as lucky, and never came home. For us to then watch Joe Biden botch the withdrawal from Afghanistan was disgusting. There must be accountability for these failures. As a United States Marine this is my mission and I have declared my candidacy for U.S. Congress in Montana’s Eastern District.

I am a proud Republican, and I am the only candidate that has both military service as well as experience in the legislature. I am currently the state senator

Ken Bogner President Pro Tempore of MTSenate

from page 13

for Southeast Montana. This is my strength, going on the offensive to pass bills that protect America and our freedoms. I passed the only law to prohibit foreign adversaries, like China, from buying land in Montana. A very important bill that we are still waiting on Congress for. I have gotten this done in Montana and I will get it done in D.C.

Our country is also being invaded at our southern border. President Trump’s Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Tom Homan, responsible for border enforcement and removal operations under Trump, has endorsed me as the candidate to secure the border.

I’m not running for Congress as a retirement plan, we do not have time for that. The future of Montana is personal to me as this is my home; my family has worked the land here for over one hundred years. Montanans deserve a Representative that understands what it means to be a Montanan and will fight back against those coming into the state to take advantage of what we have built here. We need a Representative that will carry the torch for the next generation to protect our values and morals we’ve worked so hard to instill.

Ken Bogner, candidate for U.S. Congress

Ken Bogner currently serves as the President Pro Tempore of the Montana Senate and is United States Marine Corps veteran. vj Bogner

FWP reminder: Be bear aware when recreating outdoors

HELENA – As spring weather approaches, we’re all anxious to head outdoors, and bears are leaving their winter dens. This time of year, bears are waking up from hibernation and are pretty hungry. So, it’s best for you, and for the bears, not to leave out anything that will attract their appetite or their curiosity.

If you’re outside working or recreating, you need to be aware that bears are out there, too. Anytime bears are not in hibernation, which is typically be-tween the beginning of March and the end of November, is the time to be bear aware, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Wildlife information Special-ist Danielle Oyler.

“Being bear aware means that you assume bears can be around, even if you don’t see them,” Oyler said. “You shouldn’t leave anything around your home or campsite that will attract a bear.”

These attractants include garbage, bird feeders and pet food. The most com-mon human-bear conflicts involve unsecured food attractants. Bears can be found throughout Montana. In recent years, grizzly bear popula-tions have expanded and can be found anywhere west of Billings, Oyler said.

“Most bears want to avoid contact with people,” Oyler said. “But the best thing to do to avoid an unpleasant encounter with a bear is to assume bears are around and

be prepared.”

This includes carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it. Oyler said to de-ploy the spray when the bear is about 25 feet away.

“If you feel threatened, stand your ground and use your bear spray,” she said. Oyler will host a virtual bear aware presentation on April 4, at 6 p.m. Visit fwp. mt.gov/bear-aware for login information and for more information on being bear aware. To watch a video on being bear aware, click here.

Here are some general tips to stay bear aware:

- Travel in groups whenever possible and plan to be out in the daylight hours.

- Avoid carcass sites and concentrations of ravens and other scavengers.

- Watch for signs of bears such as bear scat, diggings, torn-up logs and turned over rocks, and partly consumed animal carcasses.

- Make noise, especially near streams or in thick forest where hearing and visibility is impaired. This

Camping in bear country:

- Keep food and anything with a scent out of tents.

- Dispose of garbage in bear-resistant containers; otherwise, take it with you and dispose of it properly elsewhere. Do not bury or burn garbage.

- Properly store unattended food and anything else with a scent. Food storage options are:

- Bear boxes, Hard-sided vehicles (car, truck, RV).

can be the key to avoiding encounters. Most bears will avoid humans when they know humans are present.

- Don’t approach a bear.

Avoid leaving attractants in vehicles for extended periods of time (backcountry trips), Certified bear-resistant containers

- Electric fencing

CALL FOR BIDS

The Board of Trustees of School District No. 30, Lake County, Ronan, Montana is calling for bids for the construction of a duplex housing unit. The total project involves the construction of two (2) duplex residences comprised of four (4) separate housing units. Each duplex will be bid separately. You can bid on both duplexes. Each duplex will be built to specifications from the plans and the material take-off sheets. We are using ESSER Funds, so the project needs to be completed by September 30, 2024.

The plans and overview for the duplex can be requested by emailing mark.johnston@ronank12.edu or by calling the Ronan School District Office at 406-676-7200. Material take-off sheets will be available at Ronan’s Western Buildings Center.

Bids must be received by April 24, 2024 at 4:00 p.m. at the District Administration Office at 421 Andrew NW, Ronan, MT. Bids should be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Ronan Teacher Housing Duplex.”

Bids will be opened at the District Office at 3:00 p.m. on April 25, 2024.

The Board of Trustees reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to waive irregularities, to evaluate the bids submitted and to accept the proposal which best serves the interest of the school district.

April 10, 17, 2024

from page 14

Fishing in bear country:

- Make noise when approaching streams or rivers where visibility is poor and/or rushing water makes it difficult for bears to hear you approaching.

- Carry bear spray on you, especially if you are wading or shore fishing.

- When possible, clean fish at a designated fish-cleaning station, or at home.

- If you live in bear country, place entrails and fish waste into the freezer until the morning of garbage day. - Do not leave fish waste outside in garbage cans for multiple days, as bears will be attracted to

the smell.

- Cut filleted fish carcasses into smaller pieces that can be easily carried away in the current.

- Toss all fish waste into deep, fast-moving currents.

- Do not leave entrails or other fish waste on the bank or in shallow water.

- Store fish on ice in a certified bear-proof container.

- Coolers are not bear proof. If you use a cooler, keep it near you and closely attend it.

Biking and running in bear country:

- Anyone traveling quickly on trails is at higher risk of surprising a bear.

- Traveling fast around corners can increase the chance of an encounter.

- Watch for signs of bear activity and avoid riding in these areas.

- Avoid being on trails at night or at dusk or dawn.

- Avoid riding fast on trails that feature seasonal food sources for bears, such as berries.

- Do not run or ride while intentionally impacting your ability to hear natural noises (i.e. wearing ear buds or headphones).

- Make noise when line of sight is poor.

- When possible, ride in groups and stay together.

- If you encounter a bear, stop, get off your bike, and follow bear encounter recommendations.

- Never try to outrun or outride a bear.

- Carry bear spray on your person not on your bicycle or backpack.

seniors

Ronan

By Donna Daniels for the Valley Journal

RONAN — Mission

Valley Senior Center is located across from St. Luke’s Hospital. We are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for lunch and other activities.

Our menu is:

— Wednesday, April 10: brunch, salad, dessert

— Friday, April 12: teriyaki Chicken, salad, dessert

— Monday, April 15: cook’s choice, salad, dessert

— Wednesday, April 17: chicken chow mien, salad, dessert

Don’t forget our Sunday roast pork dinner is planned for April 14 from noon–2 p.m.

The AARP tax people are done in Ronan. If you still need your taxes done you can take them to the Polson Senior Citizens Center on Monday or Thursday. Call 406-833-4735 for an appointment.

Pinochle has started again. It’s held on Mondays from 1:30-4 p.m.

If you need Ensure, we have it. Have your doctor send us a prescription and we can fill it. We have Ensure Plus for $19.61 for a case of 24 and Ensure High Protein for $38.52 for a case of 12.

Dues for 2024 are $10 per person and are now due.

The Ronan Senior Center is available for rent for your events. Call us if you are having an event and need a location to have it.

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

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

If you would like a meal delivered to your business just call us by 10 a.m. Also, we will gladly send you a menu, if requested.

St. Ignatius

By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — Spring rains are welcome, and it is so enjoyable to see the return of our spring birds.

The next bingo game will be on April 13 at 2 p.m. Come, enjoy and possibility win the special blackout prize.

If you would like a take-out meal, please call 406-745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesday and Friday and by 2 p.m. on Wednesday. Mealtimes

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

Gently Yoga is held on Wednesdays at 1-2:15 p.m. If you are interested call Bonnie Kiser at 406-253-0177. Her rates are five sessions for $60.

Our St. Ignatius Senior Center is available to rent. If interested, call 406-745-4462 and leave a message.

An AARP tax provider does taxes only in Polson now. If you need taxes done call Polson at 406-883-4735

Menu:

— Friday, April 12: lunch at noon - chicken, mac/cheese, spinach salad, rolls, birthday cake

— Tuesday, April 16: lunch at noon - tuna sandwich, coleslaw, veggie tray, strawberry shortcake

— Wednesday, April 17: supper at 5:30 p.m.

- lasagna, green salad, garlic bread, apples/ tangerines, zucchini muffins

— Friday, April 19: lunch at noon - Salisbury steak, mushroom gravy, green beans, rolls, peaches, tapioca pudding

We are accepting donations for our yard sale in May. If you have some nice clothes that you are wanting to share check with your local nursing home to see if there is someone

there that could use the clothing. Many clients do not have family close and need clothing items.

We are planning a show of people’s collections. Call 406-7454462 for more information.

Polson

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — A

“Computer Scam Awareness” presentation by Dustin Blush will be presented on Thursday, April 18. Time updates are available at the Polson Senior Center. Call for more information. This presentation is open to all the younger people as well. Meatloaf is on the menu for that day.

We have hired a new cook and thank Ms. D for filling the position for the last few months on a temporary basis. This is National Volunteer Month. If you, or someone you know, has volunteered at the center, call us with their name, and any information they have about their service. This includes past leaders, drivers, helpers with commodities, activities leaders and helpers, instructors, or any others who have shared their time and talents. Celebrations will be at

lunchtime during the fourth week of April. A special finale celebration will take place on Friday, April 26, and perhaps a group picture will be taken.

April 15 is Tax Day. Tax assistance is available at the senior center on Mondays and Thursdays until then. Call us for an appointment time.

Activities:

— Game Day: Wednesday is Cribbage Day, also, a day for Scrabble, Mahjongg, Bridge, Dominoes, Backgammon, obscure board/dice, games etc. Some game boards are available or bring your own board game and a friend. Games start at 12:30 p.m.

— Save on your auto insurance with the newest AARP Safe Driver Course available on April 23: Registration $25 or $20 for AARP members. Sign up for this valuable four-hour video assisted course presented by a trained group leader.  There’s no test. The course takes place between 10 a.m.-2 p.m., with lunch break.

— Wood Carving for beginners: Wednesdays/ Fridays at 1 p.m.  Join any week.

— Bowling: Tuesdays at 1 p.m. - lane fee $13 - open group; skip a week ok

— Bridge: Inquire at the center.

— Memory Café, (dementia support group): first Tuesday of each month from 1-3 p.m. - snacks and fun — VA Rep.:

First Friday and third Tuesday of each month - walk-in

— Bingo: bingo Friday might (6:30 p.m. start); doors open at 6 p.m. - $100 blackout“Playing Card” bingo takes place the first and third Wednesday of each month beginning at 6:30 p.m. An evening of fun for $10 or less.

— Exercise: sitting or standing -M-W-F, 10:30– 11:30 a.m. - video-assisted guidance

— Pinochle: Thursdays noon-3 p.m.

— Pool: open table 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

— 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 takeout; call before 10 a.m. for delivery or grab-ngo

— Thursday, April 11: pork chops, whipped potatoes and gravy, beets, green salad, orange cake

— Friday, April 12: corned beef hash hardboiled egg, veggies in jello, apple rings, cookie

— Monday, April 15: chicken noodle soup, see page 17

Seniors

from page 16

PB and J Sandwich, Creamy Pea Salad, cake

— Tuesday, April 16: sweet and sour meatballs, rice, Jello Solid, Stir Fry vegetables, apricots.

— Wednesday, April 17: baked chicken, mashed potatoes, peas and carrots, Asian coleslaw, lemon bars

— Thursday, April 18: meatloaf, baked potatoes, cream corn, green salad, custard

— Friday, April 19: sloppy Joes, tater tots, mixed vegetables, green salad, pistachio pudding

We are located at 504 Third Ave. E; open from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays. Phone 406883-4735 or email: polsonseniorcenter@gmail. com.

Visit us on Facebook.

Arlee

By Arlee Sr. Citizens Board for the Valley Journal

ARLEE — Happy April 2024 and a Happy Easter! It seems spring is coming but keeps getting interrupted with snow and cold. But, for the most part we have a beautiful blue sky with fluffy clouds, brilliant stars at night and a full moon waning. How blessed we are to live where we can see the night sky showing the planets, stars and even satellites and planes gliding by.

On that note, we continue to enjoy the Tiensvold’s tasty entrees and savory cooking skills. We hope you will bring not only yourselves but your family, your neighbors and friends to join us at the table. We are still happy to have take-out

meals for those who prefer to eat at home. Yet, the research shows us that coming together to break bread at our age with friends and neighbors helps us to enjoy our later years in a much more positive and balanced way.

or a friendly voice to direct you to what you need, call Lake County Council on Aging (LCCOA) in Ronan at 406-676-23367. You may still be able to get tax assistance at the Polson Senior Center, 406-883-4735. Call and schedule an appointment. Transportation is available through LCCOA, CSKT and I Carpool.

ONAN SCHOOL DISTRICT No. 30 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Kindergarten Round Up Pre-registration For Ronan/Pablo Residents

Kindergarten Round Up Pre-registration For Ronan/Pablo Residents

Thursday, April 18, 2024 «««»» 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 18, 2024 «««»» 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Kindergarten Round Up Pre-registration For Ronan/Pablo Residents Thursday, April 18,

At KWH Elementary School

At KWH Elementary School

ONAN SCHOOL DISTRICT No. 30 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Kindergarten Round Up Pre-registration For Ronan/Pablo Residents

ONAN SCHOOL DISTRICT No. 30 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Kindergarten Round Up Pre-registration For Ronan/Pablo Residents

Thursday, April 18, 2024 «««»» 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Kindergarten Round Up Pre-registration For Ronan/Pablo Residents Thursday, April 18, 2024 «««»» 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

At KWH Elementary School

Our lunch meals are served Mondays and Wednesdays at noon and on the second and fourth Saturdays at 5 p.m. for dinner. Our costs remain at $4 for lunch and $5 for dinne. You should know that this is a donation-based meal assisted payment by the Area Vi on Aging Federal program. If you have an infirmed elder who needs meal delivery, please call us at 406-726-3213.

Thursday, April 18, 2024 «««»» 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

At KWH Elementary School

At KWH Elementary School

Screening: Hearing, Speech and Basic School Readiness & Motor Skills

Screening: Hearing, Speech and Basic School Readiness & Motor Skills

We in invite you to visit with us, share a meal, coffee, dessert, a Scrabble game or a TV show you enjoy. We truly miss all our snowbirds and hope they soon return to share their winter stories and we will share ours.

If you are in need of help with other areas of your life – transportation, respite, home, health services, information, assistance

Screening: Hearing, Speech and Basic School Readiness & Motor Skills

Hearing,

Certificate

Screening: Hearing, Speech and Basic School Readiness & Motor Skills Requirements

Screening: Hearing, Speech and Basic School Readiness & Motor Skills Requirements Certificate

Screening Includes: Hearing, Speech and Basic

Allow 30 minutes to Complete thi Placement Must Must (Limited

Screening Includes: Hearing, Speech and Basic School

Complete

Placement for Two Age Groups Include:

Placement for Two Age Groups Include:

Must Be 5 Years Old by Sept. 10, 2024

Must Be 5 Years Old by Sept. 10, 2024

Must Be 4 Years Old by Sept. 10, 2024

Must Be 4 Years Old by Sept. 10, 2024

(Limited Registration Availability For 4 Year Old Age Group) ONAN SCHOOL DISTRICT No. 30 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Monday,

(Limited Registration Availability For 4 Year Old Age Group)

Beginning Monday, April 3rd 2024, you may Pre-registration appointments by calling

Requirements for Registration include:

Ronan School District No. 30 at 676-3390:

Requirements for Registration include:

Ext. 7700 (Pablo Elementary)

County Birth Certificate Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB) Immunization Records

Requirements for Registration include: County Birth Certificate Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB) Immunization Records

Ext. 7300 (KWH/Ronan Elementary)

Ext 7450 (Special Services Department)

Registration and Screening should be completed approximately 30 minutes .

K. William Harvey Elementary School ext. 7300

K. William Harvey Elementary School ext. 7300

Screening Includes: Hearing, Speech and Basic School Readiness & Motor Skills

County Birth Certificate Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB) Immunization Records K.

Screening Includes: Hearing, Speech and Basic School Readiness & Motor Skills

Screening Includes: Hearing, Speech and Basic School Readiness

Allow 30 minutes to Complete this pr e -re gistration

Allow 30 minutes to Complete this pre -re gistration

Happy Easter, Happy April 1, April Fools and Get Over Tax Day. Come enjoy spring with all of us.

Beginning Monday, April 3rd 2024, you may make

Ext. 7700 (Pablo Elementary)

Ext. 7300 (KWH/Ronan Elementary)

Ext 7450 (Special Services Department)

Registration and Screening should be completed in approximately 30 minutes .

obituaries

Albert Knutson

POLSON — Albert

fist at the culprit!

James Knutson, age 91, passed away on Jan. 18, 2024. He began his life April 11, 1932, filling his 91+ years with much adventure, love and hard work. The second child of Alfred and Mary (Brown) Knutson, Albert grew up with an incredible sense of duty, when his mother died when he was only 10 years old, he took on the responsibility of helping raise his five siblings.

Albert was a man of many talents ending his schooling after 8th grade graduation. He could build anything without written plans, fix anything in the household including when Norma, wanting a new toaster, cut off the power plug, leading Albert to rewire it with a 6-foot cord! This bashed Norma’s plan for a new appliance but allowed her to brown her toast from the living room.

each kid needed “one for each hand”. Their family included two foster children, Rachael Jardine and Joe Lilly, who were loved as if they were their own.

Albert worked hard and played hard ... His grandpa “Fire Chief Brown” had him driving fire trucks as a young lad, leading him at age 19 to accept a job of running dump trucks for the completion of Glacier’s Going to the Sun Road. His driving, however, wasn’t limited to his employment as the Lake County Sheriff at the time could attest. If the lawman found his patrol car without tires, he knew that Albert had “BORROWED” them for the evening though always returned them as the Sheriff simply shook his

Albert married Norma Dennis in 1955. The family knew that he was “the one” when even the ornery barnyard goose befriended Albert. Many years later in an interview at the nursing home Albert joked that through their 65 years of marriage, divorce was never considered, ‘Murder yes, but never divorce!’

Family was everything to Albert and he was extremely proud of his sons; Albert Lee who was born in 1956 and Michael Ray who followed in 1957. The boys grew up with much extended family who enjoyed crazy campouts and weekly Sunday dinners. Albert’s love of children included all the neighborhood kids who were treated to Norma’s home baked treats and the ice cream push-ups that Albert insisted

As a newlywed, Albert worked at the old sawmill (where KwaTaqNuk Resort is now) and in 1958 he began a 36 year stretch at Plum Creek Lumber in Pablo, where he took great pride in drying lumber, running the boiler and was supervisor of the Yard Dept. for many years.

Albert was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Mary; siblings, Ida Combs, Lilburn, Clayton, Ronald Knutson and Ella Hintz; his wife, Norma, of 66 years; and his son, Mike, who died 33 days prior to Norma’s passing in 2021. Joe Lilly also preceded him in death.

Papa Albie, as he was lovingly known by his grandkids, is survived by son Al; daughtersin-law, Amy and Deb; grandchildren, Kirby, Robbyn, Andrew, Chris and Anna; along with numerous great- grandchildren; and sister-inlaw, Barbara Knutson. Albert loved them all unconditionally.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Polson,

MT at 10 a.m. with a luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Albert’s name to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, local food pantries, CASA, or St. Luke Extended Care activities department. The family extends much gratitude to the incredibly caring staff at St. Luke ECF for the loving and dignified care they bestowed upon Albert for the past five years. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at: www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

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

Jeannie Dennis

LIBBY — Jeannie Kay Dennis, age 80, left this veil of tears and joined Jesus her Savior on Friday, March 1, 2024, at Polson Health & Rehabilitation Center in Polson, surrounded by her loving family.

Jeannie, along with her twin brother Jim, was born on July 19,1943, to Annie and

Carl Blixt. She was raised on a ranch near Niarada, Montana, where she and her six siblings learned the value of hard work and pride in a job well done.

Jeannie attended school in Lonepine and graduated from Hot Springs High School. Jeannie lived her adult life in Libby where she worked in many occupations, her favorite being in the Clerk and Recorders office.

If something happened in Lincoln County, Jeannie knew about it. Jeannie raised her two daughters, Tracy Lauer and Robyn Dennis in Libby, who both preceded her in death.

Jeannie is survived by three grandchildren, Trysten Allen, Eric Lauer, and Lauryn Lauer; son-in-law, Mark Lauer; sister-in-law, Connie Slocum; brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Goldie Blixt; numerous nieces and nephews and her dear friend, Elsie Kindon.

There are no services planned at this time for Jeannie. The family would like to thank the loving staff of Polson Health and Rehab for their attentiveness and care in the last days of Jeannie’s life. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at: www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are

under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

Jacqueline Byrnes

RONAN — Jacqueline Gladys Byrnes was called home to be with the Lord on the morning of Feb. 7, 2024. She will always be remembered for her smile and willingness to help others.

Jackie came into this world on April 20, 1938, the oldest child of Gaston and Gladys Sinotte, in the small town of Lake Megantic, Quebec, Canada. She was joined later by a sister, Fern, and a brother, Brian. Jackie attended grammar school in Goffstown, New Hampshire, while staying with her aunt and uncle, traveling back and forth to the homestead on Spider Lake in Lake Megantic where her family remained until they immigrated to Connecticut when Jackie was 15 years old.

In 1957, Jackie completed her public education at Chesire High

Byrnes see page 19

Albert Knutson

Jeannie Dennis

Jacqueline

School, in Cheshire, Connecticut. She then attended x-ray school at Waterbury Hospital in Waterbury, Connecticut, where she completed an associate degree in 1960. It was during her schooling and work years at Waterbury Hospital that she made lifelong friends and met the love of her life, Donald Byrnes.

This chance meeting was the beginning of a 58-year adventure, traveling, raising children and moving across the U.S. Jackie and Don married on April 3, 1965, and resided in Watertown, Connecticut, bringing three children into their family, Michael, Jeanne

and Brian. In 1972 the family traveled across Canada and the U.S., visiting family and friends for three months before returning to Connecticut to pack up and move to their new home in Sebeka, Minnesota. There they hand built a log home on a 1,000-acre ranch raising cattle, before deciding Minnesota was too cold! They then traveled across the western United States looking for a warmer climate and their next home.

The family settled on 40 acres in Ronan, Montana, where Jackie lived out the rest of her life. She was an active member of the Catholic Church in both Ronan and Charlo, dedicating her spare time as an in-

tegral part of the music ministry. She took up playing the auto harp in the 80s so she could accompany the singers during mass, weddings and funerals.

Jackie worked for Holy Family Hospital in St. Ignatius until its closure and then St Luke Hospital until her retirement at age 62. She and Don then traveled, going twice to Ireland and through Canada, visiting family and friends.

Jackie was the heart of her family, bringing laughter and stability, as her children ventured out to find their own way in the world. She was the heart that brought them home. Jackie fought with dementia for the last three years of her

life. Even while fighting dementia, Jackie’s smile and laughter never failed. She always found humor in her lost memories, giggling at her forgetfulness. Her husband, Don and her devoted dog, Brownie, always by her side.

She is preceded in death by her parents; son-in-law, David Alexander Sr.; countless family members and her best friend Janet Drake.

She is survived by her husband, Don, of Ronan; her children, Michael (Kai) Byrnes of Hanibal, Missouri, Jeanne (Scott Heinz) Frolander of Polson, Brian (Donna) Byrnes of Cheyenne, Wyoming, and her bonus daughter, Annette (Steve) Hill of Anaconda; her grandchildren, Christopher (Amanda) Frolander of Summerville, Georgia, Kaitlin Byrnes of Las Vegas, Nevada, and three great grandsons, Henry, Jameson and Collin Frolander.

A celebration of Jackie’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on April 13, 2024, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 35933 Round Butte Road, Ronan. Reception to follow in the Catholic Church Parish Hall. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at: www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation. com.

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

Committee to address judicial overreach

HELENA — Montana

Senate President Jason Ellsworth, R-Hamilton, is appointing a new committee to address violations of the state’s constitutional separation of powers by the Montana Supreme Court and judicial branch of government.

The only voting members of the Senate Select Committee on Judicial Oversight and Reform will be senators, per legislative rules.

Ellsworth is appointing Republican senators Barry Usher, Steve Fitzpatrick, Tom McGillvray, Steve Hinebauch, Wendy McKamey, Carl Glimm, Chris Friedel, Mark Noland, and Daniel Emrich to the committee.

Ellsworth is consulting with Senate Minority Leader Pat Flowers about Democratic members of the select committee. Additional non-voting committee members may also be added. Ellsworth will serve as the select committee’s chair and Usher will serve as vice chair.

The committee’s objectives will include creating legislation for the 2025 Legislature to rein in Montana courts’ abuse of power, restoring coequal power among Montana’s three branches of government, establishing more oversight of the judiciary, strengthening legislative rules and procedures, and improving court processes on important constitutional cases.

Ellsworth’s appoint-

ment of a Senate select committee focused on the judiciary comes after a series of troubling judicial rulings at the district court and Supreme Court levels. A majority of state senators recently signed a letter condemning an unconstitutional veto override poll ordered by the courts. Multiple senators, including leadership, have raised alarm about a Supreme Court ruling interfering with internal legislative rules. Within just the past week, Ellsworth has responded to two separate Supreme Court rulings intruding on the Legislature’s lawmaking role. Ellsworth and House Speaker Matt Regier, R-Kalispell, have filed amicus briefs on behalf of the Legislature in the Held climate case and a lawsuit over a 2021 bill. A bipar-

tisan group of legislators and housing advocates have also expressed concerns about a ruling from a Gallatin County district court judge temporarily blocking some of the 2023 Legislature’s “Montana Miracle” pro-housing bills.

“Simply put, Montana’s courts are out of control.

They’re seizing power that doesn’t belong to them and undermining our constitutional system of checks and balances,” Ellsworth said. “Only two of the seven Supreme Court justices, Jim Rice and Dirk Sandefur, are showing a modicum of judicial restraint. Multiple district court judges are also attempting to take the law into their own hands. The Legislature must address this systemic overreach and restore the balance of power within our government.

Wednesday, April 10

Still waters calendar

Pachyderms to meet in Polson

POLSON — The Lake County Pachyderms will meet at the Polson Rural Fire Station, 25 Regatta Road, at noon on Wednesday, April 10. Fire Chief Will Woodger will speak to the group about fire prevention both inside and outside of your home. He will explain what you can do to proactively prevent fires around your house. With the recent active fire years, citizens should do whatever they can to help prevent fires around their homes as a benefit to themselves, their neighbors, and the fire fighters.

Join ‘Mending Broken Hearts’ - Native American Grief Recovery Course

POLSON — Adult (18+) and youth (13-17) tracks will be held April 10,17 & 24 from 5:307:30 p.m. Talking circles to build community and trust during dialogue. Located at the Fun and Fancy Learning Center. Meals and childcare will be provided. You must attend all 3 talking circles to be eligible to attend the KwaTaqNuk Retreat held Friday-Sunday, April 26-28. Sessions help develop the capacity of individuals and communities to heal from unresolved grief and the losses created by the legacy of historical and intergenerational trauma. Register at: familiesfirstmt.org.

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

books, make crafts, and play games. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to join in this interactive program.

CSKT Ag Producer Summit held in Polson

POLSON — On Thursday, April 11, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at the KwaTaqNuk Resort, the CSKT Producer Summit will take place. Registration is required by April 5. Topics include regenerative grazing practices, irrigation efficiency options, alternative forages for feeding and more. For more information call Patrick Mangan, at MSU Extension office at 406210-9843 or go to: forms. gle/yHH1N5waNMHpiepH6.

Saturday, April 13

Join Lone Pine’s Spring Scavenger Hunt

Learn to meditate

ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes.  Please join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on 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 pm, Mountain Time.  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.

Tobacco Prevention presentation provided

PABLO — The Johnny Arlee and Victor Charlo Theater on the campus of SKC will be the site of a free presentation for SKC students, staff,

and the community. The event takes place on Wednesday, April 10 at 6 p.m. The presenter will be Daniel Amen who will talk about his journey leading up to and following a double-lung transplant due to a vaping related injury at age 16.

Virtual rockhounding program offered

ZOOM — The MLN Virtual Programming Series will present “Rockhounding” with Neil Maier from the Hellgate Mineral Society. You can

register at: https://bit.ly/ Rockhounding.

Thursday, April 11

Join Story Time at the library

POLSON — Story Time begins at 10 a.m. at the North Lake County Public Library. Guest speaker Havilah Burton will discuss food during this session. Story Time is geared toward kindergarten readiness, ages 3-5, but everyone is welcome. We read

KALISPELL — On April 13, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. you can embrace the beauty of Montana’s spring at Lone Pine’s Spring Scavenger Hunt.

As the snow melts away and nature begins to come alive with fresh blooms and greenery, join us for an adventure through the park’s picturesque landscapes.

Pick up your Hunt Clues at the Visitor Center between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. (different versions for different ages), then explore the park’s landscapes to complete your quest before closing time for a chance to win a prize. Event is free and no

see page 22

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

Puffy clouds are reflected in the waters of Flathead Lake on a recent spring day.

Calendar from page 22

Walk to view wildflowers

BIGFORK — On Saturday, April 13, Wayfarers

Unit of Flathead Lake State Park will hold a wildflower walk. Meet at the Ranger Station; the walk goes from 10-11:30 a.m.

Come learn about the different species of vibrant flowers that grow each spring and summer in our Flathead Lake State Parks.

Please bring/wear weather appropriate clothing, proper footwear, snacks, and a water bottle. These hikes are limited to 20 people and registration can be done by calling the ranger station at 406-8373041 ext. 0.

The cost is $4 per participant, and free for kids 12 and under.

Seed Giveaway takes place at library

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library is partnering with the Lake County Conservation District to hold a Seed Giveaway and Education Program on Saturday, April 13, from 1-3 p.m. Beth Waterbury will discuss “Monarchs

& Milkweed” at l:15 p.m. At 2:15 p.m. information about basic gardening and pollinators will take place and the seed giveaway is at 3 p.m.

your digital assests. Learn all about choosing health

POLSON — Families

Sunday, April 14

Sunday with Camo

KALISPELL — Join us on Sunday, April 14, for Sundays with Camo, an exploration into the world of our resident bull snake, Camo. Discover the unique characteristics and behaviors of these slithery inhabitants as we observe Camo and witness him enjoy his weekly meal, offering a glimpse into the life of these misunderstood creatures. No registration required for this drop-in program.

Tuesday, April 16

Learn about computer file management

POLSON — Are you tired of sifting through endless digital clutter? Do you struggle to find important files when you need them most? On Tuesday, April 16, from 2-3 p.m. at the North Lake County Public Library learn how to better manage your computer files, practices that will significantly improve the security of

First and the Mission Valley Youth Foundation will show students in grades 6-8 how to cook, set healthy goals and play fun games in an after-school class in Mrs. Dunford’s room. Food, fun and fitness will take place from 3:455:15 p.m. on six Tuesdays. Sign up at the office. Spots are limited.

Training held on responding to sexual assault

PABLO — On Tuesday, April 16, at Salish Kootenai College from 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. “Responding to Sexual Assault: A Community Training” will take place.

This training is for criminal justice and community agencies who work with, serve, and provide services to victims of sexual assault. Online registration at: https://forms.office.com/g/ LFXii2ardr or visit: dojmt. gov. For more information contact MaryAnderson@ mt.gov or call 406-4445296.

public meetings

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

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

car, you’ll receive: registration is required. Nonresident vehicle entry fee of $8 will still apply.

When

Wednesday, April 17

TAG to make ‘Rainy Day Art’

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library’s TAG (Teen Advisory Group) will make some Rainy Day Art on the sidewalks around the library at 12:30 p.m. on April 17.

Ronan City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m., 207 Main Street SW, Ste A. 406-676-4231

Lake County Commissioners , 106 Fourth Ave. E, room 211, (Lake County Courthouse) 406-883-7278, Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

The Ronan School District No. 30 Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled board meetings once a month. They meet the second Monday of every month in the K. William Harvey Elementary Multi-Purpose Room. Regular meetings begin at 7 p.m.

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

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

The Arlee School District No. 8 Board of Trustees hold regularly scheduled meetings on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Arlee High School Library, 72220 Fyant Street, and begin at 6:30 p.m. The phone number is 406-726-3216.

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

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

classifieds

Announcements

Special Notices

Switch and save up to $250/ year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time offer - get $50 off on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more information, call 1-877-324-0193

Alaska, Europe, Hawaii plus dozens of other popular trips! Starting at $1649 per person (double occupancy req’d.) YMT Vacations plans everything, leaving you to relax and enjoy. Call 1-833658-1230 for more details. Use promo code YMT2024 for $250 off. Limited time only.

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: 1-855-9953572

Wanted

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

work to provide technical and skilled custodial, grounds, and maintenance functions in and around CSKT Facilities’ offices, buildings, and surrounding areas. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean, sanitary and safe environment throughout assigned Tribal Facilities. The successful applicant must possess a valid State driver’s license with no alcohol related convictions for the last three (3) years. Must be able to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License if requested. One (1) to two (2) years’ experience in cleaning chemicals and their proper uses, with ability to obtain professional/ commercial experience through three (3) months of training. One (1) to two (2) years’ experience in the operation of specialized equipment. Knowledge in effective cleaning and sanitizing techniques. Knowledge in basic carpentry, plumbing, and electrical. Skilled in the mixing of cleaning chemicals. Skilled in the handling of hazardous waste. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE INFORMATION BELOW WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION

DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal employment application, copies of relevant transcripts and/or certificates, copy of a valid State driver’s license, proof of Tribal enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes, must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a six (6) month probationary period.

Salary is $13.10 to $15.05 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Tribal Personnel at 406.675.2700 Ext. 1040.

PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. HEALTH COACH TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Location Negotiable

The successful applicant must possess at least a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field (e.g., nutrition, psychology, nursing, health promotion, etc). Active certification as a Lifestyle Coach, Health Coach, or related certification (National Society of Health Coaches, National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching, International Coach Federation, etc). 1+ years’ experience coaching patients with chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, obesity, autoimmune conditions, or digestive disorders), one-on-one or a group setting. Wellcoaches

Lifestyle Medicine Coach

2024, at 5:30 p.m. (MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

PRESCRIBED FIRE & FUELS SPECIALIST (FORESTER)

TRIBAL FORESTRY –DIVISION OF FIRE

This position is an integral part of the Facilities & Maintenance Department and consists of

Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes. org. Closing date will be Thursday, April 18th, 2024 @ 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER

Certification within 6 months of hire. Current BLS certification is required. Must have valid Montana State driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/ degree, licensure, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $23.83 - $27.39 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700

Ext. 1040 or personnel@ cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday, April 18,

The qualified applicant must possess a Bachelor’s degree with major study in forestry, range management, agriculture, or a natural resources subject-matter field directly related to the position. Two (2) years of specialized experience as a Prescribed Fire and Fuels Technician, and/ or Forestry Technician, and/ or Forestry Technician (Fire/ Fuels), or higher graded position that provides the applicant with knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform duties of the position. Red card qualifications as a Firing Boss (FIRB) trainee. Must meet FIRB full qualifications within two (2) years of hire. Red card qualifications as a Single Resource Boss (CRWB, ENGB, HEQB, FELB) and an Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5). Possession of a valid State of Montana driver’s license is required for vehicle operation. Driving duties conducted with a valid State of Montana driver’s license require BIA/Northwest Regional Office “Safe Driver Approval” and employee adherence to all responsibilities under the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Motor Vehicle Policy. Prior wildland firefighting experience on the fireline, as gained by substantial service in a primary/ rigorous firefighter position, or equivalent experience outside the Tribal government is a MANDATORY PREREQUISIT to qualify for this position. Must continuously meet the requirements for the Interagency Incident Qualifications System (IQCS) as an Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5) and a Single Resource Boss (CRWB, ENGB, HEQB, FELB) and qualify for the Firing Boss (FIRB) trainee, obtaining and maintaining full qualification as FIRB within two (2) years of hire. Must meet the Department of Interior federal

Interagency Wildland Firefighter Medical Qualification Standards for arduous duty wildland firefighting. Salary $30.14 per hour including benefits. To request an application please contact the Personnel office @ 406.675.2700, ext. 1040, or visit the csktribes.org website. Closing date will be Thursday, April 18, 2024 @ 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

COORDINATOR - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Location Negotiable

The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Health Edu-

cation, Health Promotion, or a related field. Minimum of 2 years’ experience in program development, implementation, and evaluation in a public health setting. Minimum 2 years’ supervisory experience. Experience managing a budget. Experience working in a fitness center or similar environment. Current certification in CPR and AED, and first aid. Must have valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/ degree, licensure, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE

ABOVE INFORMATION

WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION

DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $23.80 - $27.36 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@ cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday, April 18, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

STAFF SCIENTIST (CONTRACT POSITION)

TRIBAL LEGAL DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must have a Master’s degree and five (5) years’ experience working in the field. Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, outlook, teams, zoom, and access. Must possess excellent data management skills. Must possess strong organizational skills. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the supervisor, other CSKT employees, and the general public. Ability to work under stressful conditions using good judgement in difficult situations. Ability to work with confidential and classified information. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copies of relevant transcripts and/or certificates to the Personnel Department. Salary is $34.07 to $39.16 per hour plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at 406.675.2700 ext.1040. Closing date: Thursday, April 18, 2024 @ 5:30

p.m. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

PUBLIC HEALTH

EDUCATOR (1 or more positions)

Polson, Ronan TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must have an Associate’s Degree in a health related field with a minimum of two years’ working in a public health, community health, or health care setting. Documented experience providing education to individuals, families, and groups. Valid and unrestricted driver’s license. Heartsaver CPR or BLS within six months of hire. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcripts, certifications, proof of state licensure, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test, subject to random testing, and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $22.37 - $25.71 per hour, plus benefits, may be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday, April 18, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Real Estate

Equal housing EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Montana Human Rights Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, familial status, physical or mental disability, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-free at 1-800669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

Legals Legals

Ms. Lyn Fricker

Clerk of District Court

106 4th Ave. E Polson, MT 59860 (406) 883-7254

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF: KRISTINE MICHELLE HANSON, KRISTINE MICHELLE HANSON, Petitioner.

DV-24-68

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Kristine Michelle Hanson to Kris M. Hanson. The hearing will be on the 30th day of May, 2024 at 10 a.m. The hearing will be at the Lake Country Courthouse. Date: March 27, 2024.

/s/ Lyn Fricker Clerk of District Court

April 3, 10, 17 & 24 2024 MNAXLP

John A. Mercer

TURNAGE MERCER & WALL, PLLP

Attorneys at Law

312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367 jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: ZOERENE J. GEMBALA, Deceased.

Cause No.: DP-24-29

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

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

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

/s/ Patrick Gembala

Patrick Gembala

/s/ Kristen Walker

Kristen Walker

Co-Personal Representatives

Estate of ZOERENE J. GEMBALA, Deceased.

March 27, April 3 and 10, 2024

MNAXLP

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

Notice of the sale of real property which is secured by a Deed of Trust

is hereby given pursuant to the provisions of the “Small Tract Financing Act of Montana” (Section 71-1-301, et seq., Montana Code Annotated).

THE NAME OF THE GRANTOR, TRUSTEE, THE BENEFICIARY IN THE DEED OF TRUST, ANY OF THE SUCCESSOR(S) IN INTER- EST TO THE BENEFICIARY, AND ANY SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE(S) ARE:

Grantor: SEAN M. MILLIRON

Original Trustee: First American Title Company

Beneficiary: Ted Lee Tompkins

Successor Trustee: John A. Mercer

THE DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY COVERED BY THE TRUST INDENTURE IS: The real property and its appurtenances in Lake County, Montana, more particularly described as follows:

Lot 2A of The Amended Plat of Portions of Lots 1 and 2 and all of Lot 3, Block 8, BIG ARM VILLA SITE, a subdivision of Lake County, Montana, according to the map or plat thereof on file and of record in the office of the Clerk and Recorder for Lake County, Montana.

RECORDING DATA:

The follow- ing instruments and documents have been recorded in the Clerk and Recorder’s Office in Lake County, Montana on the date and with recording information as indicated:

Montana Trust Indenture: Dated November 2, 2018, recorded November 2, 2018 under Microfile No. 566210,

public notices

Legals

cont’d from pg. 25

records of Lake County, Montana.

Substitution of Trustee: Dated January 16, 2024, recorded January 17, 2024 under Microfile No. 609103, records of Lake County, Montana.

THE DEFAULT FOR WHICH THE FORECLOSURE IS MADE IS:

The nonpayment of all remaining balance due on the real property subject of the Note and Montana Trust Indenture, referred to above, which was due in full on November 2, 2023, including escrow fees, for a total amount owed as of January 24, 2024 of $130,443.57, plus nonpayment of the first half of 2023 Real Property Taxes of $961.01, plus interest and penalties after the date of this notice, making the total default for nonpayment $131,404.58, which sum includes principal, interest, past due real property taxes and escrow fees, but does not include interest and penalty on the past due real property taxes after the date of this notice, and costs of foreclosure, which will also have to be paid to cure the Default.

THE SUM OWING ON THE OBLIGATION SECURED BY THE MONTANA TRUST INDENTURE IS:

Principal plus Accrued Interest and

Escrow Fees: $130,443.57 as of January 24, 2024.

Interest: At the rate of 5% per annum from January 24, 2024, until paid.

Others: Past due property taxes of $961.01 plus all unpaid balances, including interest and penalty on real property taxes, insurance, together with all necessary expenses which may be incurred in collection, including a reasonable attorney’s fee and all costs, fees, and expenses, including costs of a foreclosure report, advertising and recording expense.

THE BENEFICIARY HEREBY ELECTS TO SELL THE PROPERTY TO SATISFY THE AFORESAID OBLIGATIONS.

THE DATE, TIME, PLACE AND TERMS OF SALE ARE:

Date and Time: June 12, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., Mountain Daylight Time.

Place: Outside the Main Entrance of the Lake County Courthouse, located at 106 4th Ave E, Polson, Montana.

Terms: This sale is a public sale and any person, including the beneficiary, excepting only the Successor Trustee may bid at the sale. The bid price must be paid in cash. The conveyance will be made by Trustee’s Deed. The sale purchaser shall be entitled to possession of the property on the 10th day following the sale.

RIGHT TO CURE: The grantor, successor in interest to the grantor or any other person having an interest in the aforesaid property, at any time prior to the trustee’s sale, may pay to the present beneficiary the entire amount then due under the Trust Indenture and the obligation secured thereby (including costs and expenses actually incurred and attorney’s fees) other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred and thereby cure the default theretofore existing.

DATED this 24th day of January 2024.

/s/ John A. Mercer

John A. Mercer Successor Trustee

STATE of MONTANA ) : SS.

County of Lake )

On this 24th day of January 2024, before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public for the State aforesaid, personally appeared John A. Mercer, known to me to be the person described in and whose name is subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he executed the same.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Notarial Seal the day and date in this certificate first above written.

Puzzle Answers

(From page 21) Solution

/s/ Tiffany Zimmerer Notary Public for the State of Montana

Tiffany Zimmerer

Printed Name of Notary

Residing at: Polson, Montana

My commission expires: October 24, 2024

March 27, April 3 and 10, 2024 MNAXLP

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

Notice of the sale of real property which is secured by a Deed of Trust is hereby given pursuant to the provisions of the “Small Tract Financing Act of Montana” (Section 71-1-301, et seq., Montana Code Annotated).

THE NAME OF THE GRANTOR, TRUSTEE, THE BENEFICIARY IN THE DEED OF TRUST, ANY OF THE SUCCESSOR(S) IN INTER- EST TO THE BENEFICIARY, AND ANY SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE(S) ARE:

Grantor: TINA LOUISE NATURALE

Original Trustee: Fidelity Title Agency of Lake County

Beneficiary: George P. Markin Trust, dated the 21st day of May 2009

Successor Trustee: John A. Mercer

THE DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY COVERED BY THE TRUST INDENTURE IS: The real property and its appurtenances in Lake County, Montana, more particularly described as follows:

Lot 6 of BAYCREST, a subdivision of Lake County, Montana, according to the map or plat thereof on file and of record in the office of the Clerk and Recorder for Lake County, Montana.

RECORDING DATA: The follow- ing instruments and documents have been recorded in the Clerk and Recorder’s Office in Lake County, Montana on the date and with recording information as indicated:

Montana Trust Indenture: Dated November 5, 2020, recorded November 5, 2020 under Microfile No. 582718, records of Lake County, Montana.

Substitution of Trustee: Dated February 6, 2024, recorded February 6, 2024 under Microfile No. 609401, records of Lake County, Montana.

THE DEFAULT FOR WHICH THE FORECLOSURE IS MADE IS:

THE SUM OWING ON THE OBLIGATION SECURED BY THE MONTANA TRUST INDENTURE IS:

Principal plus Accrued Interest and Escrow Fees: $375,275.41 as of

see page 27

The nonpayment of all remaining balance due on the real property subject of the Note and Montana Trust Indenture, referred to above, which was due in full on November 1, 2023, including escrow fees, for a total amount owed as of February 7, 2024 of $375,275.41, plus nonpayment of the first half of 2023 Real Property Taxes of $1,763.93, plus interest and penalties after the date of this notice, making the total default for nonpayment $377,039.34, which sum includes principal, interest, past due real property taxes and escrow fees, but does not include interest and penalty on the past due real property taxes after the date of this notice, and costs of foreclosure, which will also have to be paid to cure the Default.

February 7, 2024.

Interest: At the rate of 3.5% per annum from February 7, 2024, until paid.

Others: Past due property taxes of $1,763.93 plus all unpaid balances, including interest and penalty on real property taxes, insurance, together with all necessary expenses which may be incurred in collection, including a reasonable attorney’s fee and all costs, fees, and expenses, including costs of a foreclosure report, advertising and recording expense.

THE BENEFICIARY HEREBY ELECTS TO SELL THE PROPERTY TO SATISFY THE AFORESAID OBLIGATIONS.

THE DATE, TIME, PLACE AND TERMS OF SALE ARE:

following the sale.

RIGHT TO CURE: The grantor, successor in interest to the grantor or any other person having an interest in the aforesaid property, at any time prior to the trustee’s sale, may pay to the present beneficiary the entire amount then due under the Trust Indenture and the obligation secured thereby (including costs and expenses actually incurred and attorney’s fees) other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred and thereby cure the default theretofore existing.

DATED this 7th day of February 2024.

/s/ John A. Mercer

John A. Mercer Successor Trustee

STATE of MONTANA ) : SS.

County of Lake )

On this 7th day of February 2024, before me, the undersigned, a Notary Public for the State aforesaid, personally appeared John A. Mercer, known to me to be the person described in and whose name is subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he executed the same.

Terms: This sale is a public sale and any person, including the beneficiary, excepting only the Successor Trustee may bid at the sale. The bid price must be paid in cash. The conveyance will be made by Trustee’s Deed. The sale purchaser shall be entitled to possession of the property on the 10th day

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed my Notarial Seal the day and date in this certificate first above written.

/s/ Tiffany Zimmerer Notary Public for the State of

Montana

Tiffany Zimmerer

Printed Name of Notary

Residing at: Polson, Montana

My commission expires: October 24, 2024

March 27, April 3 and 10, 2024

MNAXLP

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

City of Ronan – Wastewater System

The City of Ronan will hold a public hearing on April 24, 2024, at 5:30 p.m., at Ronan City Hall, for the purpose of obtaining comments regarding the Preliminary Engineering Report for the wastewater system in Ronan, particularly the treatment facility. At the public hearing the proposed project will be explained, including the purpose of the project, activities, budget, possible sources of funding, and any costs that may result for local citizens as a result of the project. All interested persons will be given the opportunity to ask questions and express opinions regarding the proposed project and any environmental impacts. Comments may be given orally at the meeting or submitted in writing to Shari A Johnson & Associates Engineering at engineering@- sajmontana.com before 5 pm on May 1, 2024.

Kaylene Melton, Clerk/Treasurer

April 10 and 17, 2024

MNAXLP

John A. Mercer

Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP

Attorneys at Law 312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367

jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: CAMILLE C. WILDE, Deceased.

Cause No.: DP-24-30

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

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

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

/s/ Annette Wills

Annette Wills

Personal Representative Estate of CAMILLE C. WILDE, Deceased.

April 10, 17 and 24, 2024

MNAXLP

David J. HagEstad, Esq.

Brien B. Birge, Esq.

HAGESTAD LAW GROUP, P.L.L.C.

2721 Connery Way

Missoula, Montana 59808

Telephone: (406) 203-9303

Facsimile: (406) 888-6040

E-Mail: david@hagestadlaw.com

E-Mail: brien@hagestadlaw.com

Attorneys for Successor Trustee, Sheri Ann Scherrer a/k/a Sheri Ann Todd

In the Matter of the Estate of: ANNA LEE PURDY (SCHERRER), Decedent.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (For Publication)

Notice is given that Sheri Ann Scherrer a/k/a Sheri Ann Todd is Successor Trustee of the Anna Purdy (Scherrer) Irrevocable Trust Agreement dated

December 6, 1991. All persons having claims against the Estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or the claims will be forever barred. Claims must be presented by delivering or mailing a written statement of the claim to the Successor Trustee at:

David J. HagEstad and Brien B. Birge HAGESTAD LAW GROUP, P.L.L.C. 2721 Connery Way Missoula, MT 59808

DATED