04/05/23 issue

Kids ring in spring with Ronan egg hunt

Story and Photos by Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

RONAN — Kids big and small turned out in droves despite chilly weather to participate in this year’s Ronan egg hunt on April 1.

Put on annually by Mission Mountain

Enterprises, a local non-profit that provides community-based services to individuals with intellectual disabilities, Gayle Mock of the organization said that they’ve been holding the event since before she started 15 years ago. “It’s just one of Mission Mountain

Enterprise’s ways of giving back to the community,” Mock said. “It’s just a lot of fun.”

The Mission Valley Popcorn Kitchen attended this year’s event selling their treats, and the Easter Bunny made a special appearance to sit with kids and take a photo

with him.

Around 300 kids show up every year to the event. Children up to 12 years old engage in separate egg hunts according to their age group. Two lucky kids in each group,

found a ticket in one of their eggs and won a prize basket. Mission Mountain made sure that every kid had a small brown sack full of trinkets and candy to take see page 2

egg hunt

away as they left.

from page 1

It took Mission Mountain about two months to fill the 5,000 eggs used on Saturday. Each one filled with candy, Mock explained that they try to be mindful as they stuff the eggs to make sure appropriate candies are going into the different age range allotments. Any eggs kids don’t take home with them get deposited in bins left around the egg hunt areas to be reused the next year.

Mission Mountain Enterprises pays for the

community egg hunts themselves every year, but anyone interested in helping the next hunt happen are welcome to make a donation. This year saw a sharp increase in bulk candy prices, with Mock reporting they spent approximately $250 more than the previous year. To find out about contributing to next year’s egg hunt, contact Mission Mountain at: https://mme-mt.org/ contact-us

“It’s really been a nice event over the years,” Mock commented. “We do it rain, snow, sunshine … we’re on it!”

This Week’s Weather Forecast

With more than 35 years of

Highway project .......... 5 Marijuana money .......... 6 Courts ......................... 8 Valley Views .............. 10 Seniors ...................... 13 Easter Egg hunts ....... 17 Calendar ..................... 19 Classifieds ................ 20 SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

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contact

Kathi Beeks

Boone Goddard

Advertising Sales, Owner (406) 249-1728

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Office Manager, Copy Editor (406) 676-8989

vjmail@valleyjournal.net news@valleyjournal.net

Taylor Davison Editor (406) 676-8989

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Advertising Sales (406) 207-4641

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2023

The Valley Journal newspaper (PE 23-190) is published weekly by Valley Journal LLC. Periodicals postage paid at Ronan, MT.

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County rescinds Resolution 21-20

By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

LAKE COUNTY — The Lake County Commissioners voted on March 27 to rescind Resolution of Intent 21-20 regarding the handling of fees related to the Flathead Indian Irrigation Project.

R21-20, passed by the commission in 2021, determined that Lake County would cease billing, collecting, and distributing any fees or assessments related to the Flathead Indian Irrigation Project (FIIP), something the county had been doing since the origination of the FIIP.

In the resolution, the commission addresses that Montana Code 85-7-2133, annotated in 2021, stated that “the county treasurer is the custodian of all funds belonging to the (irrigation) district … and the county treasurer shall pay out the funds upon the order of the board of commissioners of the irrigation district.”

However, the resolution then points out that the Montana Water Rights Protection Act, signed into law on the federal level in 2020, designates the Secretary of the Interior as “the entity with legal authority and responsibility to operate

the Mission Valley Division of the Flathead Indian Irrigation Project, and … provides that the irrigation districts may enter into an agreement with the Tribes (CSKT) to operate and maintain the FIIP.”

As no irrigation or the Tribes had requested or made an agreement to operate the FIIP, R21-20 determined that it was “no longer necessary or appropriate” for Lake County to facilitate the billing and collection of irrigation assessments. So, beginning 2022, the Lake County Treasurer ceased the handling of fees and assessments related to the FIIP.

However, R21-20 was the subject of debate within the county. According to the Lake County commissioners, part of the confusion with the resolution has been whether state statutes or federal statutes apply to the FIIP, as Lake County is the only county in Montana that collects tax for a federal Indian irrigation project.

Some of this confusion stemmed from Montana Code 85-7-2136, also annotated in 2021, which stated the Department of Revenue should be the one to put the assessments on the irrigators

News from the Montana Department of Transportation

RONAN — This week will be a busy one on the Ronan-North US Highway 93 (US 93) project. Riverside Contracting will begin installing a 54-inch siphon pipe, requiring excavation through the roadway. Crews will also start milling the roadway and shoulder of the northbound lane, the east side of the highway, starting at the south end of

tax statements. Previously the Lake County Treasurer had been fulfilling this duty.

Another event that’s brought the nearly two-year-old resolution back to the forefront was the introduction of Senate Bill 461 by Senator Salomon of Ronan. SB 461 states that “if a county treasurer for any reason fails to levy or collect a special tax or assessment … the board of county commissioners shall provide for and pay the amount due to the district out of the county treasury.”

With SB 461 working its way through the state legislature, the commissioners held a public hearing March 27 to discuss with irrigators whether or not to rescind R21-20. The commissioners were divided on the subject: Commissioners Decker argued to keep the resolution in place, reasoning that the FIIP is a federal project, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) has a mechanism in place to collect irrigation fees, so there’s no reason for the county to become involved in the process. Commissioners Barron and Stanley, however, argued that the state statute that obligates the Department of Revenue to put irrigation

Highway project continues

the project. Due to this work, drivers should anticipate shifting traffic lanes and transitioning to and from gravel surfaces.

Also, embankment operations will be underway on the west side of US 93 at Baptiste Road and the northbound side of the couplet, the short, 600-foot twolane segment connecting 1st Avenue to US 93, just north of the Round Butte Road and US 93 intersection. Excavation operations will be occurring on the

fees on tax statements and the county to collect and distribute them is still in effect until the county is told otherwise by the Attorney General or a court of competent jurisdiction.

“I agree with (Decker) on his perspective on this,” Commissioner Barron stated. “But it comes out of my law enforcement background – I think we have to go by the state law that’s on the books until a court or the AG tells us otherwise.”

The commissioners had sent the Attorney General last fall asking for either an opinion or letter of advice on the subject but heard nothing in response. The commissioners sent a follow up letter prior to the public hearing again asking for a reply to their original inquiry, but once again received nothing.

“Two other irrigation districts also sent letters to (the Attorney General) trying to get him to weigh in, and none of us heard from him,” Commissioner Barron commented. “We sent two notices to him trying to get help on this.”

Attorney General Knudsen did not respond to the Valley Journal’s request for comment.

As the majority of the

southbound side of the couplet. This week crews will only be on site from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., weather permitting.

Drivers should plan for short delays when traveling through the project area. Traffic control, including traffic lights and flaggers, and reduced speeds will be in place.

Remember the three Ss of work zone safety when traveling through the construction zone: speed, space, and

commission voted in favor of rescinding R21-20, the resolution has been withdrawn. The county had also recently met with the Department of Revenue and the commissioners said the department agreed that they would put irrigator assessments onto the tax statements for them.

Going forward, Decker explained that if the Department of Revenue does what they’re statutorily required to do, they will upload the irrigation fees onto the irrigators tax statements. They’ll then come to the Lake County treasurer, who will then mail out all the tax statements, and the irrigators will pay their irrigation fees when they pay their taxes. The county treasurer will then sort it all out and send the money to the irrigation districts, who then forward the money to the BIA.

“Up until about five years ago, that’s the process that happened. Then about five years ago there were some changes and they decided they weren’t going to do this anymore,” Commissioner Barron said. “That was a big part for me in (rescinding R21-20), making sure the state does what they were supposed to.”

stress. Slow down when approaching work zones and follow posted speed limits. Leave adequate braking room between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep your cool, pay attention, and plan for delays.

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Call the project hotline at 406-207-4484, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on the Ronan-North project, visit: bit.ly/Ronan-North

Marijuana money pours into state coffers, debate sparks about who should control spending

News from Caven Wade UM Legislative News Service University of Montana School of Journalism

MONTANA — In 2020, the state of Montana joined a pack of 20 other states and the District of Columbia when it legalized recreational marijuana. Montana voters passed ballot Initiative 190 on a thin margin of 57% for and 43% against.

The legalization came with a brand-new pipeline of tax money and now that the money is starting to flow, a debate is building in the Capitol over how that money should be used and who should be controlling it. Just like alcohol or tobacco and nicotine products, recreational marijuana has a tax of 20% and medicinal marijuana sits at 4%. The current total this year from marijuana sales sits at about $50 million that the state can use.

As the 2023 Montana Legislature careens into its final month, agencies, programs and lawmakers are fighting over this new pot of money, with some saying they believe their programs or causes have a right to the money based on the “will of the people,” as former Republican state-legislator-turned-cannabis-advocate Dave Lewis puts it.

The initiative was originally stamped with a “road map” of where the money from the tax would be going: $6 million per year for addiction treatment services, 20% of revenues to conservation, 4% of revenues, up to $650,000 each, to state parks, trails, recreational facilities, and wildlife protection, $200,000

to veterans services and improving veterans’ cemeteries, $300,000 to the purchase of drug detection dogs, $150,000 for police training and remaining amount to the general fund, essentially the state’s checkbook.

The only problem is that in the Montana Constitution, ballot initiatives don’t have the ability to appropriate money. The Constitution states that right is reserved for the Legislature.

“The folks, they’re true believers, and they wanted that money, so they made the argument from the beginning that well, ‘the people meant that,’” Lewis said. “Well, the people couldn’t mean that because it’s unconstitutional. The people cannot appropriate.”

Lewis served in the Montana Legislature in both the

misinterpreted by voters and was actually laid out as just a possible way to spend the money, to show voters what the additional cash could be used on.

“They agreed that they would list a menu of options if the tax passed, but it was not an appropriation,” Lewis said. “I remember being on conference calls with conservation groups that wanted that money appropriated, and I argued vehemently that ‘no you cannot do that.’ You can simply lay it out as one of the options if the tax passes, but the Legislature is the only people who can pass the appropriation.”

list” in the initiative, including:

- House Bill 462, sponsored by Rep. Marta Bertoglio, R-Montana City, which would send most of the tax money to addictions recovery, corrections and law enforcement programs.

Senate and the House from 2001-2015. He also worked as the state budget director, most recently under former Gov. Marc Raicicot from 1993-2000. He also ran for lieutenant governor with gubernatorial candidate Bob Brown in 2004. After his time in the Legislature, Lewis turned his attention to advocating for legal cannabis and he was a supporter of I-190 in the 2019 Legislative session. He said the additional money generated through the revenue tax was most likely what swayed enough voters to push it into law.

Lewis said while the initiative might look like a prescription for where the marijuana tax money should go, it’s not that simple when it comes to the Legislature actually allocating the funds. He said the money aspect was

In the early 1900s, there was no language in the Montana Constitution that allowed for initiatives to be included on the ballot.

“The progressives wanted to get in the Constitution the ability to do initiatives and a lot of the corporate interests fought it very hard on the basis that it would affect their taxes,” Lewis said.

The Anaconda Copper Company didn’t want voters to be able to raise taxes through initiatives that have appropriations attached to them. A compromise was made that led to the Legislature having the ability to create initiatives, but only if there was no appropriation attached to it.

That means that the revenue created by I-190 is fair game in the Legislature and this session, several bills are working their way through the process that would allocate the money very differently than the original “menu

- House Bill 669, by Rep. Bill Mercer, R-Billings, which would give $6 million to the Healing and Ending Addiction through Recovery and Treatment, or HEART fund, which aims to fund addiction and behavioral health treat programs in the state, but then send the remaining revenue tax to the general fund. The bill would completely eliminate any payments to the state special revenue accounts.

- Senate Bill 442, by Sen. Mike Lang, R-Malta, which would allocate the money to county and city road construction and maintenance, in hopes of creating greater access to privately held property opened up for hunting access through the Block Management Program and to public lands.

HB 462 and 669 are still awaiting hearings in the House Appropriations Committee. SB 442 passed a second reading vote on the Senate floor, but was referred back to the Senate Finance and Claims Committee.

Mercer said his HB 669 is to make sure that there is proper appropriation and oversight when it comes to the marijuana tax money, whereas other bills and the road map laid out in the initiative would automatically send that money over to prosee page 7

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from page 6

grams with no real Legislative oversight.

“I fear that when you begin to essentially earmark dollars for special revenue accounts they really evade review on an ongoing basis,” Mercer said.

However, HB 669 would remove around $8.3 million expected for the Fish, Wildlife and Parks Habitat program as well as $1.6 million that would go to state parks, trails, and recreation. The bill increases the revenue that would go into the general fund by about $14 million per year, all the way up to $15 million in 2027.

If the bill is passed, the general fund would gain $41.6 million in 2024 from the tax revenue and up to an additional $46.6 million in 2027.

Mercer said HB 669 is very similar to HB 462, but it differs in the fact that no money would be sent to special revenue accounts across the state.

“That revenue should go to the general fund, appropriations, finance and claims, and the Legislature as a whole should determine how it wishes to spend that money,” Mercer said.

In Mercer’s opening remarks during the bill’s hearing on Feb. 23, he touched on the constitutionality of not being able to appropriate money through initiatives. He said several opponents would use the original numbers in the ballot initiative to justify having a right to the

tax revenue, but that the legislature needs to send a message that they will not violate the Constitution to accommodate them.

The Anaconda Sportsman Club and the Montana Wildlife Federation were heavy opponents to both HB 669 and HB 462. They had multiple representatives present to argue against both bills and claim that the benefits of funding conservation across the state far outweigh opening it up to a general appropriation process.

Chris Marshawn, a representative for the two organizations, went to both hearings to speak in opposition of the bills.

“I understand, and I think the public understood, as the developers of the initiative understood, that they could not appropriate the money,” Marshawn said. “But, what the public was clearly trying to send the message to was that we felt we had programs that through the general funding of the budget, and through fundings that specifically go through license fees to FWP, was not sufficiently meeting the needs of Montana.”

Marshawn said the funding deficits in those conservation and habitat programs are well documented and many Montanans know about them. He said the marijuana tax revenue was supposed to be a vehicle to help conservation entities finally fund their programs adequately, but legislators are already trying to take

it away.

Lewis said these bills most likely won’t be passed until very late into the session so that every lawmaker can get a full view of spending possibilities of the marijuana revenue tax.

“It’s a growing industry that is only going to earn more year in and year out. It’s here to stay and it will be really interesting to see how all this money is sorted through, and where it goes in the future,” Lewis said.

Caven Wade is a student reporter with the UM Legislative News Service, a partnership of the University of Montana School of Journalism, the Montana Broadcasters Association, the Montana Newspaper Association and the Greater Montana Foundation. He can be reached at caven. wade@umontana.edu.

Urban producers, public invited to attend April meeting

News from USDA WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) encourages urban producers, innovative producers and other stakeholders to submit comments for and virtually attend the fifth public meeting of the Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (Committee) on April 18, 2023.

courts Haynes pleads not guilty to burglary

POLSON — A St. Ignatius woman is accused of committing several burglaries in her hometown.

Quianna Leigh Haynes, 22, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court on March 30 to

Stories by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal

three counts of felony burglary and one count of felony bail jumping.

According to court records, on Feb. 20 a man called law enforcement to report his granddaughter had broken into his garage, then used a maul to break into a cabinet and took $6,400 in cash. Images of the incident were captured on surveillance cameras. On March 13, the owner of a funeral home in St. Ignatius called law

enforcement regarding a burglary to his business. He indicated that he discovered his office was “ransacked” and checks were taken. He also said that it was broken into again on March 12 and someone left a dog in the business. Surveillance at a local grocery store linked Haynes to the stolen check from the funeral home. On March 15, another relative of Haynes reported her home had been broken

and items were taken. Haynes was linked to this burglary via surveillance cameras.

Haynes has been convicted of a burglary that occurred at another relative’s home on April 11, 2022. She was set to be sentenced for that burglary on Sept. 1, 2022 but failed to appear which led to the bail jumping charge.

Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher set the newest cases for trial on Sept. 25.

GPCF grant application deadline nears

News from the Greater Polson Community Foundation

POLSON — The 2023 grant application deadline is Friday, April 28. Grant applications will be accepted from non-profit organizations with a 501c (3) status in the Greater Polson area. Grants from the Greater Polson Community Foundation make a significant difference. Over $1,131,500.00 has been contributed to meet needs in our community since grants were first awarded in 2009. Grants are funded annually by the earning’s from the foundation’s growing permanent endowment and other available GPCF funds. Past grant awards have supported a variety of youth

and community projects.

“Our grant funding support to our community non-profits and their projects is the highlight of our year,” GPCF Grants Chair Jeanette Phillips said.

The Committee is looking for how well the prospective project matches the mission and values of the GPCF as well as addressing critical needs that strengthen our community.

As you prepare your application, think about how your project can enhance and improve the lives of the people who live here.

GPCF will accept applications for pre-screen (preview and advise on completeness) until April 7 and complete applications must be postmarked no later than Friday, April 28. The complete 2023 Grant

Application is available to download online at www. greaterpolsoncommunityfoundation.org where you will also find a list of pre-

vious GPCF grant recipients. If you have questions, please contact Jennifer at the GPCF office at 406883-4723.

Call 883-5312 or visit our Facebook page!

Quianna Haynes

Beading celebration to support survivors

By Taylor Davison Valley Journal

PABLO — With

April designated as “Sexual Assault Awareness Month,” SAFE Harbor and partners are creating a new way to bring awareness and community support to honor survivors. This year they will use beadwork.

“We thought about beadwork in the sense that it’s inspiring, it’s timeless. It’s been a part of indigenous communities since the 16th century, so we thought it’d be a chance to remember those artists who create those images, using their imaginations to literally transform hundreds of tiny objects into a magnificent visual creation,” Dana Grant of Safe Harbor explained. “We thought about how everyday survivors work to find their own vision, and that’s kind of how we’re connecting it. How survivors are able to rebuild their lives, and find a vision forward that really helps them try to overcome the trauma and the challenges they face after being attacked.”

Put together by the Salish Kootenai College Art Department and Center for Prevention and Wellness, the Spirit of Many Colors, the SKC Student Senate, and Journey to Wellness in partnership with SAFE Harbor, the Beautiful Beadwork Celebration

aspires to become an annual event. Planned for April 13 from 1-7 p.m. in the Sherri McDonald Room of SKC, everyone is welcome display their beadwork.

Beaders interested in participating may bring up to five pieces and arrange their displays however they wish. Set up will take place in the morning from 10 a.m. to noon. There’s no charge to participate. Staff volunteers will be available to watch tables throughout the day to keep the beadwork safe and secure.

“Those who have not experienced (sexual assault) sometimes don’t understand what that trauma’s like and what it takes,” Grant commented. “Survivors demonstrate so much courage as they recover from assault. In the same way, beadwork is an enduring cultural symbol, something that people recognize immediately, they see the

strength in it … People have treasured pieces from the 1800s that they know are linked to a certain area, the designs that are known – whether it’s southwest, whether it’s floral designs of the Salish – they’re all kind of woven together. And they’ve shown resiliency from a population for all that time, and survivors have that same resiliency.”

Some historic beadwork will be on exhibit, and at approximately 3 p.m. a panel of beaders will discuss their work and its significance. A reception will be held at about 5 p.m. to celebrate the gathering.

To register ahead of time for a display space during the beadwork celebration, email: dana@ safeharbormt.org or call 406-240-0640. Registration is not required as there will be space for walk ins during set up. The event is free and open to all.

ENVATO ELEMENTS PHOTO

valley views Time flies at the library

Wheredid March go? Things have been a little crazy for us at the library, but so many exciting things are happening this month. At the beginning of March, we moved library operations into the western end of the United Methodist Church at 301 16th Ave. E. (you can park anywhere in the parking lot and the church is still having regular services on Sundays). We have a great setup here with three public computers, printing, WiFi, our device charging stations, our multi-purpose machine for copies, color printing and faxing, all of our new books and a selection of our older books, all of our DVDs, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers. We also have our special checkout items like our Wi-Fi hotspots, NASA backpacks, the Starry Night kit and more. There is a great setup for kids with a small play area and a dedicated room for our Monday and Thursday morning programs (start at 9:15 a.m.). Things are

moving along and we are excited to see everyone visit us in our new space. Visit our website for details and to find out about our virtual program on wild mushroom hunting happening April 20. We have had several people ask us – “is this it?” Yes, it is for now. We are very fortunate to be able to be in a space large enough to have any of our collection available. We will continue to add new items to our collection while in our temporary space. While we may not have a very large browsing selection of books, we do still have access to hundreds of thousands of items through our Partners membership. Our library is part of the Partners Sharing Group of the Montana Shared Catalog. We share with nearly 40 other libraries across Montana – from Eureka to Glendive. Missoula, Kalispell, and most recently,

View from the Library

Great Falls are all part of this sharing system. There is no charge to you to borrow from any of the Partner libraries. You can go onto the Montana Shared Catalog website or use our Montana Shared Catalog app to browse the selection and place your own holds, or just stop in, give us a call or send us an email and we will gladly place holds for you. It typically takes a few days to get items from Missoula or Kalispell. If you’re really in a browsing mood, visit any of the Partner libraries and use your Polson card to checkout. You can return the books there or to us. Super easy and a great way to get the materials you want. You can find a list of all of the Partners libraries on our website.

So, what’s happening with the library in April? Demolition and construction will likely begin this

Teachers on the front lines

School shootings and the bloody murders of totally innocent children and their teacher caretakers is a societal tragedy that Americans have become numb to.

Without the commonsense outlawing of the assault weapons used in most of these atrocities,

month if permits are received. Our outdoor book drop at the library building will only be available for a little bit and then all items will need to be returned to our temporary location at the church or to one of our Partner libraries. At this time, we will not have an after-hours book drop available at the church. We are having trouble finding a temporary option that is weatherproof and secure. We are fine-free for books, magazines, DVDs and audiobooks, so if you can’t make it in by the due date you won’t be charged. We had a very successful surplus sale in February, but we do still have several items available that need to be removed from the building. On Friday, April 7, from 9:30 a.m. to noon we will open the library building up at 2 First Ave. E for anyone interested in these items (use the meeting room entrance on First Street E). If you can’t haul away that morning, you can tag items to be removed later, but they must be gone before demo starts

(date TBD). Pickup will be by appointment Monday – Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Remaining items will be discarded by the construction crew, so we’d rather see them used than at the dump. A few things will have a price, but most just needs to go. Of course, donations for our project are always welcome. Things like the outdoor book drop, the people cutouts over the entrance, cabinets, SMARTboard for parts, older tech equipment, adjustable height desks, full-size refrigerator, tables, study carrels, and shelving – as well as some other miscellaneous items. Please visit our website and our Renovation FAQ page for more information on this project and to watch its progress.

Our hours are Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at our temporary location. We are closed on Saturday, April 8, for the Easter weekend. Curbside pickup is available for everyone during open hours. Please call us at

406-883-8225 or email us at: polsoncl@polson.lib. mt.us with questions or to request curbside pickup. Visit our website at :www. northlakecountylibrary.org for more info.

LETTER POLICY

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

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

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

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

Valley Views

the preventable horror will relentlessly continue, in our schools, most of them public schools.

Bob Brown

Former MT Secretary of State and State Senate President see

On the front

line of the onslaught are the teachers. Until recently those who had an affinity for kids, and enjoyed learning and sharing with young people the joys of learn-

ing, entered my chosen profession of teaching. They eagerly took on civilization’s necessary responsibility of passing on the accumulated body

page 11

Please limit “thank you” letters to four people/organizations or less. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday to publish the following week. Opinions expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the newspaper.

Abbi Dooley, North Lake County Public Library District

of knowledge to the following generation.

Far fewer young people aspire to be educators now, and the current worsening teacher shortage is a dark demonstration of that. There is an unmistakable lack of respect for the profession that has been fundamental to our opportunity-based middle-class prosperity. There seems to be a particular lack of appreciation for Montana teachers reflected by our state’s lowest starting salaries in the country.

Free public education was a major reason that millions of immigrants fled the dead-end existence of ignorance and poverty in the old world to seek opportunity in the new world of America. The key to our “land of opportunity” was public education.

The burgeoning American economy of the 1800s signaled an overwhelming need for literate workers. Those who could cipher and read the language were far more productive than those who could not. They would soon become the backbone of the workforce, and also the entrepreneurial creators of countless private enterprises that resulted in perpetual job creation, and thus a continuous cycle of opportunity and prosperity. Unique in all the world’s nations, this has been the “American

Dream.”

Long a source of national pride, public schools are now a source of criticism and controversy. Our educational system, always available to the rich and poor alike, is criticized for not being competitive with the elitist-based systems of our authoritarian competitors. In addition to academics, our schools provide for socializing and leadership producing athletic, music and speech opportunities, unavailable except at high expense to kids in other countries.

Public schools provide hot lunches, safe spaces, counseling and nurturing, that simply wouldn’t be available without them.

Sad to say, at a time when public schools have never been more vital than they are today, there is a movement to eliminate these “government schools” as their critics call them. Do they really realize the ramifications if they succeed?

If public-supported schools are replaced by tuition-based private schools, then school choice will depend on students’ ability to pay. The result will inherently be a class system, the very opposite of the free and fair opportunity society that has truly made America great.

As with all institutions in this era of incomprehensible change, the challenges to public education are relentless.

Schools increasingly deal with juvenile drug abuse, the tragedy of homelessness, student addiction to technological devices, and the ominous prospect of violence.

Public schools are carrying the loads of many of society’s burdens. To privatize schools will only exacerbate the problems because by their nature, private schools are selective and public schools can’t be. This will lead to a society that is less free and less fair to the less fortunate. Such a threat to our dwindling middle class will inevitably threaten American stability.

What we can do is work to improve the time-tested educational system that has been an American birthright. What society values most is reflected by its public priorities. In Montana, we have the resources to more adequately support public education. Do Montanans really want to distribute public resources to high-income earners for the theoretical economic benefit that might bring? I expect Montanans would choose to budget public money on the long-term economic and societal benefit of investing in the next generation through our public schools.

Bob Brown is a former MT Secretary of State and State Senate President.

Consider debt Editor, The Inflation Reduction Act has upped our debt over seven trillion. Senator Tester actually voted for this. It has increased inflation as have the other trillions poured into the US by the Biden Admin. Tester meets, greets, and talks but doesn’t really commit to anything. I want to know why Medicare Advantage is being cut $307 billion and that money is going into green energy projects. Biden said he would not cut Social Security, yet this huge cut affects millions of elderly citizens. Rest homes are closing in Montana and throughout the USA while the Biden Admin sends billions to Ukraine. Where is Tester when this

is happening? And I might add, where are our Republican reps? Small hospitals are closing, and the elderly and families are struggling to survive. Medical care and Medicare are critical yet $307 Billion cut? Now a bit about Tester being this Montana Farmer: His net worth is between $1,768,009 and $6,695,000, according to Federal Election Commission (FEC) data from 2021. And once in a great while a Montana family can afford to eat out, but no problem for Senator Tester: The spending by the Montana Democrat, who announced last month that he would seek re-election for a fourth term in the Senate, includes $31,000 at Morton’s Steakhouse, high -

lighted by the Free Beacon as a “Washington mainstay where eight-ounce steaks run $53 and margaritas cost $35 a pop.” During his Senate career, Tester has also spent heavily at swanky places like Del Frisco’s steakhouse and RPM Italian, spending $8,100 and $6,000 at each restaurant, respectively. Additionally, the Tester campaign has indulged at Bistro Cacao, where Tester has spent $15,745, and Bistro Bis, an upscale French restaurant where he’s spent more than $9,000. This info is online so available to anyone.

Grace Larson Kalispell

Superintendent expands MAST pilot program, seeks public comment

News from OPI

HELENA — Superintendent Elsie Arntzen is expanding the Montana Alternative Student Testing (MAST) Pilot Program to grades three through eight in math and reading for the 2023-2024 school year. Due to this expansion, the Office of Public Instruction (OPI) is seeking a Field Test Flexibility waiver to eliminate an undue burden on students, teachers, and district leaders by preventing double testing. Currently, the districts participating in the through-year MAST

program for grades five and seven are also required to complete the federally mandated end-of-the-year summative assessment. The Field Test Flexibility waiver is for one year and is granted to states that are changing their assessment system by the US Department of Education (DOE).

“Montana is leading the way in creating an innovative and flexible system to measure student proficiency in Math and Reading,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “The MAST Pilot Program delivers valid, reliable, transparent, and

immediate feedback on student achievement to parents and teachers. I encourage all Montanans to provide public comment on the Field Test waiver to help relieve the burden of one-size-fitsall testing for our students and teachers participating in MAST.”

The MAST Pilot Program tests fifth and seventh grade students in math and reading with a through-year model that aligns student testing closest to the learning of the skill. Currently, districts have administered three of four testing windows. More than 30 districts

2023 EMERGENCY WILDLAND FIREFIGHTER SIGN UPS

Applications for placement on the CS&KT Division of Fire / BIA-Flathead Agency 2023 Emergency Wildland Firefighting Crew will begin on Monday, March 6, 2023. Last day applications will be accepted is June 1, 2023 @ 4:00 PM.

• Application to be completed at CS&KT Division of Fire – CANNOT TAKE OUT OF OFFICE. (Application will take Approximately 45 minutes to complete)

• Applicant must provide 2 forms of Identification to start application process.

and nearly 5,000 students have participated in the MAST Pilot Program to date. The final spring testing window will be from April 17-28.

The Field Test Flexibility waiver will only affect districts and schools that are participating in the MAST Pilot Program. All other districts and schools will still be required to take the federally mandated end-ofthe-year summative assessment. OPI is seeking public comment from parents, teachers, test coordinators, school leaders, and community members on the Field

Test Flexibility waiver from March 30 through April 28. Public comment can be provided by:

- Completing Field Testing Flexibility for Montana Assessment System Waiver Survey

- Submitting written comment to essainput@ mt.gov

- Participating in one of three public comment webinars on April 12, 19, or 25 from 4-5 p.m.

The Field Test Flexibility waiver and a summary of public comment will be submitted to the DOE on May 2.

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — The April full moon is above us now. The natives of New England called it the Pink Moon, because that was the time of year when a variety of creeping phlox bloomed with pink flowers in April. Do not be fooled. It still looks yellow, like cheese.

We recently offered a turkey dinner on Friday. We sold over 60 meals at the center, plus another 80 or more were delivered to Seniors and those in need in the Polson area. We are privileged to provide this

service to our community. And we are not “jus  Volunteers still wanted to help in a variety of ways.

April 18 is the last day to file your taxes. Free tax filing assistance is available on Mondays or Thursdays from now until April 13. Come in or call for an appointment and pick up a filing information packet.

Activities:

Thursday nights are available for those interested in a weekly “board /card game night.” Several games may be offered, such as scrabble, cribbage, Yahtzee, Uno, Chinese checkers, backgammon, etc. Separate tables for separate games. B.Y.O.B. (bring your own board). Leave

contact info at the center. Starting soon.

The Ronan Senior Center is hosting pinochle games each Monday from 3-6 p.m.

Bowling Fun League: pay by the day, non-sanctioned, no-tap, Tuesdays, 1 p.m. weekly

Bingo: $100 payout on blackout guaranteed, bingo games Friday at 7 p.m. “Playing Card” bingo first  and third Wednesday

Exercise: low impact MW- F, 10:30– 11:30 a.m.

Pinochle: Thu., 12–3 p.m.

Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. weekdays

Tai Ji Quan: exercise for balance: Tuesdays 10-11 a.m. Wednesday 1-2 p.m.

Veterans’ Rep: first Friday (April 7) and third Tuesday (April 18) from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.    MENU (subject to change): sit-down or takeout; call before 10 a.m. for delivery - serving on site from 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. for $5

—Thursday, April 6: pork chops, mashed potatoes, gravy, buttered corn, pickled beets, apple cake

Friday, April 7: fish dish, rice, mixed vegetables, applesauce, j Jell-O, lemon cupcakes

Monday, April 10:  Ham and split pea soup, pumpkin muffins, fruit salad, pudding parfait

Tuesday, April 11: tater tot casserole, roasted veg-

etables, stewed tomatoes, Caesar salad, straw/barb squares

Wednesday, April 12: Salisbury steak, potato casserole, creamed peas/ onions, pineapple/orange

Jell-O, carrot cake

Thursday, April 13: oven fried chicken, baked beans, carrots, tomato aspic, cookies

Friday, April 14: sausage/egg/cheese roll-ups, baked apples, pea/cheese salad, pound cake with sauce

We are located at 504 Third Ave. E, and are open from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. on weekdays. Call 406-8834735 or email us at: polsonseniorcenter@gmail. com.

Ronan

By Donna Daniels for the Valley Journal

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

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

Our menu is:

— April 5: enchiladas, salad, dessert

— April 7: ham dinner, salad, dessert (Easter dinner)

— April 10: Tator-Tot casserole, salad, dessert

— April 12: turkey, see page 16

PUZZLES

GIANT CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. Wagon encampment

7. Indivisible entity

12. Straw hat

18. Game keeper?

19. Pakistani city

20. Southern garden shrub

21. Fiscal decisionmaking

23. Chooses as a successor

24. Blood-typing system

25. Island feast

26. Social

28. Bypass

29. Rope fiber

32. Scarecrow stuffing

35. “Welcome” site

36. ___ manual

37. It’s measured with a barometer

41. Back of the neck

42. Hyperbolic function

43. Secret store

44. Stabbed

46. “I ___ you one”

47. ___ gin fizz

48. Mozart’s “L’___ del Cairo”

51. Auto mechanic’s lubricant

52. Back up

55. Boring tool

57. “Flying Down to ___”

58. Despondency

62. Muhammad’s religion

65. Blemish

66. Masefield play “The Tragedy of ___”

67. Crowded

68. Staged moment for celebrities

Place the digits 1-9 in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains each digit once only.

74. Afflict

75. Marx collaborator

76. Depressing state of affairs

77. Opening (anatomy and zoology)

80. Calendar square

81. Dismal

84. Lent’s start, e.g.: Abbr.

85. Apartment building employees

86. Representative

87. Balm ingredient

89. Aces, sometimes

90. Spy for hire

96. 1957 #1 song

97. “Hold on a ___!”

98. Banana oil, e.g.

99. Did a fall chore

101. Cost of living?

102. Stacked

104. Assayers’ stuff

106. “Caught you!”

107. Cooper, for one

109. Hot flavoring

114. 1983 invasion site

115. Beloved of Aphrodite

116. Hungarian ancestor

117. Marsh plants

118. ___ bear

119. Places to sleep

DOWN

1. Spiritual leaders

2. “Lawrence of ___” (1962 epic)

3. Buttonhole

4. Long-jawed fish

5. Tokyo, formerly

6. Casting need

7. Natural fertilizers

8. Exclamation of surprise

9. ___ de guerre

10. Bone-dry

11. Abscond

12. Bête noire

13. “Walking on Thin Ice” singer

14. Under debate

15. Cargo ship

16. Complete

17. Irritates

19. Disinclined

20. Milky

22. Having pointed ends

27. Agents making busts

30. Embryo sacs

31. Lollygags

33. Melodic

34. Advantageous to all

36. Led

38. Floor it

39. Kind of board

40. “Great ___!”

44. An avatar of Vishnu

45. Newly invented word or phrase

48. Alfresco

49. Conspirator with Brutus

50. Father of Scholasticism

51. Beefed

52. “By yesterday!”

53. New England catch

54. Metric unit

56. Chemical ending

59. Babysitter’s handful

60. Animal house

61. Symbol of industriousness

63. Absorbed, as a cost

64. Landlocked Eastern European country

69. 1970 World’s Fair site

70. “Laugh-In” cohost

71. “___ Angry Men”

72. Annuls

73. Offspring

78. Asparagus stalk

79. Seed coating

82. Greek wine

83. Show respect, in a way

85. Evening do

86. Salon job

88. It regained independence in 1991

90. Capital on the Missouri

91. Blew one’s top

92. Hat for Frosty?

93. Small black and white seabirds

94. African animals

95. Warm up leftovers

96. Becomes tiresome

100. Sews toes, say

102. Stationer’s stock

103. Arp’s art

105. Cowboy boot attachment

108. Ed.’s request

110. “Silent Night” adjective

111. Sign off

112. I, to Claudius

113. Ace

Shakespeare characters

EDGAR

HERMIA

HERMIONE HOTSPUR JAQUES KATHERINA LAVINIA MIRANDA MISTRESS PAGE OBERON ROSENCRANTZ

Can you find all the listed words in the grid? Words may appear horizontally, vertically or diagonally, forwards or backwards. WORDSEARCH

DOT-TO-DOT

Starting at 1, connect the dots in numerical order to complete the picture.

MIRROR IMAGE

Which of the four images below is the mirror image of the larger one to the right?

A B C D

SOLUTIONS

91. Ranted, 92. Ice cap, 93. Terns, 94. Okapis, 95. Reheat, 96. Drags, 100. Darns, 102. Pads, 103. Dada, 105. Spur, 108. SAE,

86. Tinting, 88. Estonia, 90. Pierre,

73. Young, 78. Spear, 79. Testa, 82. Retsina, 83. Kneel, 85. Soirée,

63. Ate, 64. Moldova, 69. Osaka, 70. Rowan, 71. Twelve, 72. Undoes,

56. ENE, 59. Imp, 60. Lair, 61. Ant,

52. ASAP, 53. Scrod, 54. Tonne,

49. Cassius, 50. Anselm, 51. Griped,

44. Krishna, 45. Neology, 48. Open-air,

38. Speed, 39. Chess, 40. Scott,

33. Arioso, 34. Win-win, 36. Ushered,

27. Narcs, 30. Amnia, 31. Loafs,

19. Loath, 20. Lacteal, 22. Cusped,

15. Tanker, 16. Entire, 17. Rasps,

86. Token, 87. Aloe, 89. Ones, 90. Private investigator, 96. Diana, 97. Sec, 98. Ester, 99. Raked, 101. Rent, 102. Piled, 104. Ores, 106. Aha, 107. Artisan, 109. Cayenne pepper, 114. Grenada, 115. Adonis, 116. Ugrian, 117. Sedges, 118. Panda, 119. Roosts. Down: 1. Lamas, 2. Arabia, 3. Accost, 4. Gar, 5. Edo, 6. Reel, 7. Manures, 8. Oho, 9. Nom, 10. Arid, 11. Decamp, 12. Bane, 13. Ono, 14. At issue,

GIANT CROSSWORD

Seniors

noodles, salad, dessert

Our next Sunday roast pork or roast beef dinner is planned for April 16 from noon-2 p.m.

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

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

Every Wednesday through tax season we will have people available to help with your taxes. Stop in and get a folder to fill out and then make an appointment by calling 406676-2371.

Everyone is welcome to join us for our meals no

matter what your age. We ask for a $7 donation for our Monday, Wednesday and Friday meals and $10 for our Sunday meal.

tinues to deliver snow and cool weather.

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.

We are looking for a part-time employee. Stop in and get an application if you are interested. We are also recruiting board members for the center. If you are interested in a board position, give us a call.

St. Ignatius

By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — I think Mother Nature is upset with us. She con-

Easter is early this year. There will be an Easter Egg Hunt in St. Ignatius on April 8 at the High School at 10 a.m. Don’t be late.

Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy a meal with us on the following days:

— Wednesday, April 5: Easter dinner – ham, potato salad, Ambrosia salad, rolls, pineapple sheet cake

— Friday, April 7: chicken, veggies, mashed potatoes/gravy, fruit, rolls, cake

— Monday, April 11: chili dogs, Tator-Tots, pea salad, fruit, berry dump cake

— Friday, April 14: beef cornbread casserole, cole-

from page 13 see page 18

Tiny Home for Sale by Bid

Salish Kootenai College is offering, for sealed bid, a one-of-a-kind Tiny Home. This home was constructed with quality materials, all locally obtained and constructed by local students under the strict guidance of a highly qualified instructor. This open design with cathedral style ceiling and open beam construction could be an ideal home office, starter home, guest house or home for a retiree.

The exterior is designed to meet Montana’s harsh winters, with metal roofing that will give years of low maintenance. The wood siding blends in with the beauty of western Montana.

The home is 200 square feet (10’ by 20’), with a gorgeous living and kitchen area, a full bathroom with shower and excellent cabinet space. The kitchen area is perfect for a small refrigerator to fit next to the cabinets, with an ideal space above the sink for a convection microwave oven. The left lower cabinet has wheels so it can be moved easily, and the hot water heater is enclosed under the counter, with access for maintenance. Two of the walls have tongue and grove wood paneling and the others are finished sheetrock. The house is well insulated with R-21 insulation in the walls and ceiling and has built in electric heat. The bathroom design has great storage space and is very functional with a full size fiberglass shower stall and vanity sink with quality lighting above.

For more information, or to see pictures and to place a sealed bid, interested parties should contact Audrey Plouffe at Salish Kootenai College, P.O. Box 70, Pablo, MT, 59855; 406275-4969. The successful bidder will be responsible for moving the Tiny Home. The minimum bid required is $28,000 as is. The successful bidder will be required to enter into a buy sell agreement with Salish Kootenai College. The College reserves the right to accept, negotiate or reject all bids received. Deadline for bid submittal is 4 p.m., April 27, 2023, to Audrey Plouffe, V.P. of Business Affairs located in the Big Knife Building.

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

Full time positions receive the health insurance benefit 12 months a year. Check out the available jobs and detailed job vacancy announcements on the SKC website – www.skc.edu/employment

Custodian (Part time)

Salary Range: $13.21/hour Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Journey to Wellness Community Outreach (Full time)

Salary Range: $16.54 - $17.40 DOEE per hour Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center (ELC) Lead Toddler Teacher (9.5 months)

Salary: $22.48 - $23.22/hour DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Clinical Instructor/Clinical Resource Reg. Nurse Part Time Nursing Dept. (9-month term)

Salary: $35 per hour 14 hours per week Closing Date: Open Until Filled

SKC Early Learning Center Assistant (Full time - 10 months)

Salary Range: $15.17-$15.99/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Director of Academic Success

Salary: $44,310 - $45,656 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Upward Bound Instructor (12 months - Full Time with benefits)

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

Vice President of Academic Affairs

Salary: $75,000 - $85,000 DOEE Closing Date Extended to: April 28, 2023, 4:00 PM

General and Grants Accounting Assistant

Salary: $38,927 - $40,727 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Assistant Director of Academic Success

Salary Range: $37,106 to $38,927 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

HVAC Maintenance Technician

Salary: $56,043-$63,083 DOEE per hour Closing Date: March 17, 2023, 4:00 PM

SKC seeks applicants for: Bookstore Sales Clerk (10-month position) $13.53 - $14.16 DOEE per hour Closing Date: April 14, 2023, 4:00 PM

Career Services Coordinator

Salary: $18.28 - $20.02 DOEE per hour Closing Date: March 17, 2023, 4:00 PM

Tribal Governance and Administration Department Faculty within the Native American Studies Division (9 month position)

Salary: $42,621 - $45,025 DOEE Closing Date: March 13, 2023, 4:00 PM

Student Success Coach - Academic Success

Salary: $36,316-$38,022 DOEE Closing Date: April 7, 2023, 4:00 PM

The Liberal Arts Department is actively seeking adjuncts to teach communications, research writing, humanities, and grant writing courses. Must possess a master’s degree in English, liberal arts field of study, or education. A bachelor’s degree in English, liberal arts field of study, or education with a closely related master’s degree will be considered.

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

Methodist Church announces Easter services

News from Mission Valley United Methodist Church

ST. IGNATIUS — Four events for Easter morning, April 9, are planned for the MV United Methodist Church, on the top of Post Creek Hill. A sunrise Easter service will be held at Ninepipes Restaurant’s outside deck at 6:45 a.m. All are welcome. Wear a warm jacket.

At 8 a.m., worship will begin in the sanctuary of the United Methodist Church.

That service will be followed by an Easter brunch in the Fellowship Hall at 9 a.m. All are invited.

The regular 10 a.m. service will be held following brunch where all are welcome to worship and celebrate the Risen Christ.

After the 10 a.m. service, children 0-12 years old will meet at the church’s front porch to hunt for hidden Easter Eggs. A great number of filled eggs will be available with treats hidden inside.

All in the Valley along with Easter visitors are welcome to share the church’s holiest days of the year.

Hunt for Easter eggs at Lone Pine State Park

News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

KALISPELL — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks invites families to Lone Pine State Park on Saturday, April 8, for an Easter-themed outdoor adventure.

The annual Easter egg hunt at the state park

USDA Grants available

News from USDA

BOZEMAN — USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is accepting applications for grants until May 26, 2023, to fund Montana projects that could stimulate the development and adoption of innovative conservation approaches and technologies. Conservation Innovation Grants (CIG) generally fund pilot projects, field demonstrations and on-farm conservation research.

Tom Watson, NRCS state conservationist for Montana, said $225,000 is available for the state-component CIG this year. He said applicants can request up to $75,000 for projects lasting one to three years.

Watson said projects should address one or more of the following resource

near Kalispell is a popular family-friendly event. Participants meet at the park’s picnic shelter before walking a short 30-minute loop to search for Easter eggs. The hunt will be broken up into four sessions starting at 11 a.m., noon, 1 p.m., and 2 p.m., and will include other activities afterward.

Families should bring an Easter basket or bag for collecting eggs. Dress for the weather.

Advance online registration is required: https:// montanastateparks. reserveamerica.com/tourList.do?parkId=630115&contractCode=MT.

Cost is $4 per participant. The $8 park entry fee still applies for non-resident vehicles.

For more information, contact the Lone Pine State Park Visitor Center at 406-755-2706.

concerns: icommunity agriculture, soil health, irrigation technology, range health, and water quality and quantity. CIG projects are expected to lead to the transfer of conservation technologies, management systems, and innovative approaches to agricultural producers, into government technical manuals and guides, or to the private sector.

The Montana CIG program provides special consideration to projects substantially involving or benefitting historically underserved producers or groups of producers.

Applications must be submitted electronically through grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on May 26, 2023. Information about this CIG opportunity and the application process is available online at: grants.gov. Search for Montana CIG. General CIG information can be found at: mt.nrcs.usda.gov

Seniors

obituaries

from page 16

slaw, Jell-O/fruit, cherry pie bars

If you are interested in a take-out meal, please call, 406-745-4462, by 10 a.m. and leave a message.

Mark your calendars for the “Women for Wellness” event on May 18, from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. There will be lots of information, testing and interaction.

Foot Hill club meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m. for snacks and cards.

Gently Yoga will resumed on March 29. If you are interested in taking a Yoga class, please call Bonnie Kiser at 406-2253-0171. Her rates are five sessions for $60.

Taxe help is available if you are in need of assistance. Drop your papers off at the St. Ignatius Senior Center and they will be picked up and taken to the Polson Senior Center and completed by AARP preparers.

Our next bingo day will be April 15 at 2 p.m. We will have a “Rummage Sale” on April 28 and 29. We welcome donations.On May 12 and 13 our “Mother’s Day Bake Sale” and “Mother’s Day Raffle” will take place. Please mark your calendars

Our Senior Center is available for rental. If you are interested, please call 406-745-4462 and leave a message. We will call you back with the information you need.

The Senior Center has a computer that is available for use by the public. If you are interested in using the computer come in on a Tuesday or a Friday from 10 a.m.1 p.m. or call and leave a message. We will return your call.

Federal Advisory Committee to meet

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) encourages urban producers, innovative producers and other stakeholders to submit comments for and virtually attend the fifth public meeting of the Federal Advisory Committee for Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (Committee) on April 18, 2023.

Zana Niblack memorial planned

POLSON — A memorial service for Zana Niblack is planned for Saturday, April 15, at 2 p.m. at the Polson Presbyterian Church. An abbreviated obituary has already been published, but in summary, following life on a ranch and an accountant for the family business, Zana teamed with her husband wherever professional responsibilities took them in the US and Canada. She served professionally and volunteered in mental health and social service agencies while raising her own children and grandchildren, as well as lots of others who called her Mom throughout her life. Fiercely loyal to family, her most notable character trait was putting others’ needs before her own.

David Stipe

CHARLO — Former Lake County Commissioner David Stanley Stipe of Charlo died on March 18, 2023, at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson. He was 66 when he finally succumbed to a very rare and incurable form of skin cancer.

Dave was born on July 16, 1956, in Ronan to Agnes and Dick Stipe and grew up on the family ranch near Charlo. He lived in just three houses in his

life, all within a three-mile radius, including the one he built himself on 80 acres northwest of Charlo.

He graduated from Charlo High and went to college but came back to ranch with his father. “It’s what I always wanted,” he said. “If it’s in your blood it’s a satisfying life.”

He began his first stint as county commissioner in 1993 and served two six-year terms, ending in 2005. He was elected again in 2016, and served from 2017-2021 and stepped down 17 months before the end of his third term due to his declining health.

In a statement, the Lake County Commissioners praised him as a staunch advocate for agriculture and said, “Mr. Stipe’s positive impact on county employees and residents will long be remembered and appreciated.”

During his years in office, Dave served on the Lake County Council on Aging, Community Action Partnership Northwest, Flathead Basin Commission, Area Six Agency on Aging, and the Lake County Weed Board.

In a 2021 interview, he said he particularly enjoyed working on senior programs with the Lake County Council on Aging. He helped establish a transportation program for area seniors in the 1990s that offered free rides to and from medical appointments, shopping, and social engagements. The program has continued to flourish, and now has a transportation hub and meeting room in Ronan.

He also enjoyed holding an elected office that allowed him

to directly impact people’s lives. “You do a hundred little things for people.”

“As a whole,” he added, “we just make decisions for the good of the people we serve. We can actually provide services to individuals, so it’s real rewarding.”

In the summer of 2021, as word spread that he was stepping down from the commission, he was inundated with cards and letters, numbering close to 1,000. Friends far and near called or dropped by to visit.

“Most people don’t get a farewell tour,” he said at the time.

Another gift was the return in 2021 of his daughter Taylor, who moved back home with his grandson, Brandt, and took over ranching duties. The pair of them brightened the last two years of his life immeasurably and gave him the opportunity to pass on his considerable ranching know-how, from calving, to irrigating to haying. As was his nature, he made the best of the time left to him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Agnes and Dick Stipe.

Survivors include his daughter, Taylor Stipe; grandson, Brandt David Stipe; sisters, Deb (Jack) May, Dana (Bill) Darlington, and Laurie (Don Jr.) Hege; nieces and nephews, Kevin (Nicki) May, Jeanna (Brian) Carey, Macey Darlington, Rock (Elizabeth) Darlington, Kelsey Darlington, Asia Hege, Ali (Phill) Minder, and Abbey (Zach) Wainwright; his aunt, Betty Ann Kibbee; and many cousins, great nephews, and great nieces. He loved

them all dearly.

A celebration of Dave’s life will be held this summer at the family ranch. Dave wanted memorials to be made to Lake County 4H. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www. shriderthompson.com.

Arrangements are under the care of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.

Wilbur Marsh

CHARLO — Wilbur

Lewis “Bill” Marsh, age 90, passed away at his home on

Wednesday, March 29, 2023, with his wife, Louise, by his side. Bill was born April 20, 1932, to George and Edith (Skinner) Marsh in Hollywood, California. Bill and Louise had just celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary.

Bill Marsh

A graveside service will be held on Monday, April 3, at 1 p.m. at Ronan Cemetery. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www.shriderthompson.com.

Arrangements are under the care of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.

J. Davud Bennett

RONAN — J. David Bennett, age 76, passed away on March 30, 2023, at Logan Health Kalispell. Arrangements are under the care of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.

David Stipe

Wednesday, April 5

Free ‘Food Formulation’ workshop held

RONAN — Mission West Community Development Partners, 407 Main St. SW, is offering a free workshop titled, “Food Formulation,” on Wednesday, April 5, from 9 a.m.- noon and afternoon sessions from 12:30-4:30 p.m. The afternoon sessions consist of oneon-one confidential meetings. Register for in-person or virtual attendance by going to missionwestcdp. org. Product development food scientists from Oregon State University’s Food Innovation Center will provide this workshop concerning a diverse range of food product categories including sauces, beverages, bars, baked products, and more.

Free online meditation classes offered

ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. on Wednesdays, from 6-7:30 p.m. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847-721-0665 or email him at: Jerry.Smyers@gmail. com.

Friday, April 7

Open Mic Jam held

RONAN — 7-9 p.m. Come on down to open mic for your chance to take the stage and share your talents. We’ll have an open jam once everyone has had a chance to take the stage. Open to the public, and listeners are welcome, too. Check out

our talented members at the Red Poppy building at 1 Eisenhower St SW, Ronan. Check us out on our web page for announcements, events calendar and more at: www.mtmusic.org

Saturday, April 8

Two Easter egg hunts planned in Mission

ST. IGNATIUS — The St. Ignatius Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual Easter egg hunt at 10 a.m. on the Mission High School football field on Saturday, April1. Children will be grouped according to age with younger children going first. The second Easter egg hunt will take place between noon and 2 p.m. at the Christian Church.

Community Jam

RONAN — From 7-10 p.m. and hosted by Sid Seay and Keryl Lozar, Saturdays are jam night at the Western Montana Musicians Co-op! Stop by at the Red Poppy building at 1 Eisenhower St. SW. Everyone is welcome. The community jam is free.

Sunday, April 9

Four Easter morning events planned

ST. IGNATIUS — Four events for Easter Morning, April 9, are on the schedule for the Mission Valley United Methodist Church on the top of Post Creek Hill. For early risers, a Sunrise Easter Service will be held at Ninepipes Restaurant at 6:45 a.m. All are welcome

to this event. Wear a warm jacket. At 8 a.m., worship will begin in the sanctuary of the United Methodist Church followed by an Easter Brunch in the Fellowship Hall at 9 a.m. All are invited. The 10 a.m. service will be held following brunch. After the 10 a.m. service children from 0-12 years old hunt for Easter eggs.

Thursday, April 13

Register for Ronan Kindergarten Round Up

RONAN — Ronan Schools is holding a Kindergarten Round Up pre-registration for Ronan and Pablo residents for the upcoming 2023/2024 school year at: K. Wm. Harvey Elementary School, Thursday, April 13, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. You

may make appointments by calling the District office at 406-676-3390 ext. 7700 (Pablo Elementary); ext. 7300 (KWH Elem.) or ext. 7450 (Special Services). Kindergarten student must be 5 years old, or 4 years old, on or before Sept. 10, 2023. Enrollments for pre-registration of 4-yearolds are limited. Parents are asked to bring their child’s county birth certificate, immunization record and Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB) on day of registration. Children will be screened in hearing, speech, basic school readiness and motor skills. Your child’s immunization records can be verified by the school nurse, and immunizations may be available at the time of pre-registration. Registration and screening should be completed in approximately 30 minutes.

PREVENT: Read your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) and protect your Medicare number.

DETECT: Look for services you didn’t receive, double charges, or items your doctor didn’t order. Request a Health Care Tracker from SMP to compare appointment information with what is printed on your MSN.

REPORT: Call SMP if you suspect health care fraud, errors, or abuse, or if you would like to request a Health Care Tracker.

classifieds

Announcements Auctions

Rex Tanner Auction w/Guest

Consignors: Arlee Powwow Grounds on April 15th @ 10 am. Accepting consignments, email weaverauctions24@ gmail.com. Website: www. weaverauctions24.com

Casey or Amanda Weaver 406-544-8696

Classifieds work!

Classified ad deadline is Friday at Noon. Call 406-676-8989

Special Notices

CALL FOR ARTISTS: Exhibitors for Flathead Lake Festival of Art, July 22 & 23. sandpiperartgalleryandgifts.com

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

Dish Network: Only from Dish - 3 year TV Price Guarantee! 99% Signal Reliability, backed by guarantee. Includes Multi-Sport with NFL Redzone. Switch and Get a FREE $100 Gift Card. Call today! 1-855-995-3572

Donating your vehicle? Get more! Free Towing. Tax Deductible. Plus a $200 restaurant voucher and a 2-night/3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations. Call Heritage for the Blind to donate your vehicle today - 1-855-901-2620

Connect to the best wireless home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5G and 4G LTE networks, no

contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 855-419-7978

FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-866-585-6456

Wanted

WANTED TO BUY

Guns and/or ammunition, old or new.

Whole estates/collections or single pieces.

Fair prices paid. 207-4641

Employment

Help wanted

FITNESS CENTER OFFICE MANAGER - ST. IGNATIUS TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must have: high school diploma or equivalent. At least one year of office management or customer service experience. Knowledge of fitness center operations, preferred. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, certifications, 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 $16.88 - $19.41 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 20, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Enviro-Tire is hiring for 1 CDL driver. This position is open immediately. No tire loading, drop and hook only. CDL Class A truck driver with doubles endorsement for Montana, Idaho and Washington day runs. Home every night. Work site is in Lonepine, Mt. Year-round, full-time position. Pay $25.00 per hour for experienced, qualified drivers. Mandatory DOT drug testing. Vacation & holiday pay. Office phone and fax (406) 755-7716. enviro-tire@ montanasky.com

HELP WANTED - Tire Truck

Operator At Our Opheim Location. Full-time, Wage DOE. Farm/Ranch Store Hand with light duty shop work At Our Peerless Location Full-time, Wage DOE. Family Health insurance, dental, 401K, long term disability, holiday pay, vacation and sick leave package. Also Need Seasonal Drivers With CDL For Local Fertilizer Deliveries in Richland, Scobey and Plentywood Areas. PRO Co-op, Tanner Trower 406-487-2612

INFORMATION, EDUCATION & TRAINING OFFICER RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE - ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma AND five years’ verifiable work experience in records management required with preference given for an Associate’s degree. Seven years of experience in clerical/administrative oriented experience with three years of increasingly responsible work experience in managing databases or other research responsibilities. Preference will be given for verifiable experience with Indigenous Research. Three years of increasingly responsible work experience in developing data/ research tracking for reporting and records management. Must pass local, state and federal background checks (upon hire and yearly thereafter) and is subject to CSKT Drug and Alcohol Policies. Must have valid Montana driver’s license or be able to obtain one within six (6) months. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, a completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, a copy of relevant transcript, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of the DD214 to the Tribal Personnel Department. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING

Great family-owned award winning Ford dealership. Great place to work and Cut Bank is a great place to live. Send resume to: josh@northernford.com or mail to: Attn: Josh Waller, Northern Ford, 120 W Main St, Cut Bank, MT 59427. Call for appointment 1-800-823-1234

THE SCREENING PROCESS. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a prehire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040 for an application. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org. The salary range is $22.26 to $25.58 per hour, including benefits. Closing date will be Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

REFERRAL COORDINATOR

ST. IGNATIUS - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must have: high school diploma or

GED. One (1) year’s experience as a referral coordinator or similar type duties working with the referrals of patients for treatment and diagnostic students. OR a minimum two (2) years’ full time experience as a medical receptionist, medical assistant, or other medical related field. Prefer three (3) years’ medical experience with demonstrated customer service in a medical facility. Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE

see page 21

classifieds

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 $15.42$17.73 per hour, plus benefits.

To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday, April 13, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. (MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

MEDICAL FACILITY HOUSEKEEPER - RONAN TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must have: A minimum of GED or high school diploma, and 1 year’s work experience related to housekeeping duties. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory

six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $12.41$14.27 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 13, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. (MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

WATER MONITORING AND MEASUREMENT PROGRAM MANAGER NATURAL RESOURCE DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must possess a Master’s of Science with three (3) years of relevant professional-level experience or Bachelor’s of Science with a minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional-level experience. Education must be in the field of hydrologic sciences, engineering, or a closely related physical sciences field with emphasis on hydrology. Education and experience must demonstrate analytical aptitude, exposure to both surface and ground water hydrology, and experience working with water resources data collection, data management, and data reporting. Must have or be able to secure a current State of Montana driver’s license. Must wear Tribal Government identification and safety apparel when conducting field activities. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copy of relevant transcript and/or certificate, a copy of a valid driver’s license and 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 mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is negotiable-dependent on experience, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040.

Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes. org. Closing date will be Thursday, April 20th, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

SECURITY OFFICER RONAN - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must have: A minimum of 2 years’ work experience in law enforcement/security or combination of training and experience where people skills, planning and coordination are required. Minimum of one year college course work preferred. Must be 21 years of age or over. Must complete/ pass background investigation. No felony convictions. No misdemeanor convictions in past year except minor traffic. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license throughout employment. Must never have had a misdemeanor conviction involving child abuse, sexual offense, assault with a weapon, domestic abuse or violent crime against a person. Must have not had any record or history of drug abuse within the past five (5) years. Must not be subject of a current investigation involving criminal activities, including indictments. Must not have a driving while intoxicated or reckless driving conviction within the past three (3) years. Must not have been dismissed, or resigned from law enforcement work due to threat of disciplinary action that could result in termination of employment during the past three (3) years. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/ degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing

Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $16.47$18.93 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 13, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

RESEARCH & INFORMATION OFFICER (RIO) - RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The successful applicant must possess an Associate’s degree with preference given to the computer science, statistics, and data management or Bachelor’s degree in any field. Ten years of experience in clerical/administrative oriented experience with five years of increasingly responsible work experience in managing databases or other research responsibilities. Preference will be given for verifiable experience with Indigenous Research. Five years of increasingly responsible work experience in developing data/ research tracking for reporting and records management. Must pass local, state and federal background checks (upon hire and yearly thereafter) and is subject to CSKT Drug and Alcohol Policies. Must have valid Montana driver’s license or be able to obtain one within six (6) months. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, a completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, a copy of relevant transcript, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of the DD214 to the Tribal Personnel Department. FAILURE

TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING

THE SCREENING PROCESS. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a prehire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040 for an application. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org. The salary range is $19.06 to $21.91 per hour, including benefits. Closing date will be Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

WIC AIDE - ST. IGNATIUS TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must have: high school diploma or equivalent. Must complete required WIC training within first 60 days of hire as well as additional training in specified time frame. Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted.

FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION

DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve

a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $14.19 - $16.31 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 20, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

RECORDS CREATION OFFICER (RCO)-RECORDS MANAGEMENT OFFICE

The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma with preference given for an Associate’s degree. Seven years of experience in clerical/ administrative oriented field with five years of increasingly responsible work experience managing databases. Preference will be given for no less than 5 years’ verifiable experience with database creation and management. ‘ Five (5) years of increasingly responsible work experience in work planning, productivity, reporting of outcomes, and developing data tracking for reporting and records management. Five years of increasingly responsible work experience in developing data/ research tracking for reporting and records management. Must pass local, state and federal background checks (upon hire and yearly thereafter) and is subject to CSKT Drug and Alcohol Policies. Must have valid Montana driver’s license or be able to obtain one within six (6) months. Must be able to lift/carry a minimum of 40 pounds. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, a completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, a copy of relevant transcript, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of the DD214 to the Tribal Personnel Department. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL

see page 22

Help wanted

RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a prehire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1040 for an application. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org. The salary range is $23.39 to $26.88 per hour, including benefits. Closing date will be Thursday, April 13, 2023 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous

Hytops Steel Adj. Scaffolding, 3 Workboard planks, Granite brand, rated 75 lbs per sq ft. In Charlo, $2000 OBO. Call/ text 406-241-1651

Vehicles

Miscellaneous

INVENTORY CLEARANCE SALE

Auto /Truck Starters and Alternators. 305 units, all remanufactured and tested for earlier vehicles, prior to 2000. Closing business.

Selling off all rebuilt starters and alternators at 55% off retail. If your car or truck in 1997 or older, at this price you can afford to have a spare. Call Jerry at 406-207-4641.

Estate of GLORIA MARIE VIOLETTE, Deceased.

March 22, 29, and April 5, 2023 MNAXLP

Public Notices

Legals

Legals

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: GLORIA MARIE VIOLETTE, Deceased.

Cause No.: DP-23-11

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/ Daniel Markus Violette

Daniel Markus Violette

Personal Representative

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: JONAH MICHAEL ERNEST JONES, Deceased.

Cause No.: DP-23-13 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/ Patricia Marie Jones Patricia Marie Jones

Personal Representative Estate of JONAH MICHAEL ERNEST JONES, Deceased.

March 22, 29, and April 5, 2023 MNAXLP

Request for Bids

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) Department of Human Resource Development is accepting bids from qualified professionals experienced in grant writing and program evaluation services for Tribal programs. The successful

candidate will serve as a Grant Writer and Program Evaluator for various grants and programs under the direction of DHRD Department Head for the remainder of Fiscal Year ’23. This will include writing grant proposals, quarterly reports, end-of-the year reports, and final summative reports as required in each individual grant or program. Such reports and required activities include:

• Formative and summative evaluation

• Design evaluation

• Grant modification documentation

• Research as requested

• Empirical data tracking

• Site visits from various cross-site evaluators

Required experience:

1. Ten or more years of experience in writing successfully funded tribal grants for programs on the Flathead Reservation.

2. Experience working with H.H.S., A.C.F., S.A.M.H.S.A., and A.C.Y. grants.

Proposal must include:

1. Professional writing samples of written and funded grant proposals

2. Resume or curriculum vitae with relevant work experience

3. Bid for services

4. List of successful grants written and funded (with amounts)

Submit proposal to:

CSKT Department of Human Resource Development

Attn: Rhea Gates, DHRD Administrative Program Manager

P.O. Box 278 Pablo, MT 59855

SEALED BID-GRANT W/E

All proposals must be received no later than 5:30 p.m. on Thursday April 13th, 2023. Announcement of this award will take place on Wednesday, April 19th, 2023. CSKT DHRD reserves the right to refuse any and all proposals or bids. For further information, please contact: Rhea Gates, DHRD Administrative Program Manager at (406)675-2700 ext. 1325.

This is an Indian Preference Bid. Tribal Contractors who wish to receive Indian Preference must obtain certification by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Indian Preference Office as a legitimate Indian-owned business prior to the submission of bids. In order to claim Indian Preference, proof of Indian Preference Certification must be included with your bid in the form of a copy of the certificate issued by the

Indian Preference Office. Be advised, evidence of your membership or affiliation with a tribe does not constitute Indian Preference certification. The selection of the successful contractor and award of this project will be per the provisions of the CSKT Indian Preference Ordinance 101A. It is the sole responsibility of the bidder to obtain and provide proof of Indian Preference certification from the Indian Preference Office. For more information on Indian Preference certification, contact Melinda Charlo, (406) 675-2700 ext. 1045.

March 29 and April 5, 2023

MNAXLP

NOTICE OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BOND ELECTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of Elementary School District No. 23 (Polson), Lake County (the “Elementary District”), that pursuant to a resolution duly adopted at a meeting of the Board on February 13, 2023, an election of the registered voters of the Elementary District will be held by mail ballot election on May 2, 2023 for the purpose of voting on the question of whether the Board may sell and issue general obligation school building bonds of the Elementary District in one or more series in the aggregate principal amount of up to Twenty-Three Million Three Hundred Fifteen Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($23,315,000.00), for the purpose of addressing student safety and deferred maintenance needs, enhancing educational opportunities, and accommodating student enrollment by paying the costs of designing, constructing, remodeling, equipping, and furnishing improvements to: Cherry Valley Elementary School, to include constructing a secure main entrance and removing unsecure and unnecessary modular units; constructing classrooms, a music room, a library, and restrooms; remodeling existing restrooms, serving kitchen, special education classrooms, and support spaces; making site improvements; and related costs and improvements; Linderman Elementary School, to include constructing a secure main entrance and removing unsecure and unnecessary modular units; constructing classrooms and learning spaces, a music room, a library, a serving kitchen, and restrooms; remodeling existing restrooms; making playground and other site improvements; and related costs and improvements; Polson Middle School, to include constructing a secure main entrance; completely re-

modeling the district kitchen; remodeling classrooms, restrooms, commons area, and support spaces; and related costs and improvements; and paying costs associated with the sale and issuance of the bonds. Each series of the bonds shall bear interest at a rate or rates to be determined at the time of sale and be payable semiannually during a term of not more than twenty (20) years.

The election will be conducted by the County Election Administrator solely by mail ballot. Ballots will be mailed to all eligible registered voters in the Elementary District on April 14, 2023, and must be returned by each voter either by mail or in-person to the Lake County Election Administrator, Lake County Courthouse Room 121, 106 4th Ave E., Polson, Montana 59860, during regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), weekdays (exclusive of holidays), April 17, 2023 through May 1, 2023.

On Election Day, May 2, 2023, the only place for deposit of voted ballots will be the office of the Lake County Election Administrator, Lake County Courthouse Room 121, 106 4th Ave E., Polson, Montana, which will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. All ballots must be in the office of the County Election Administrator by 8:00 p.m. on May 2, 2023 to be counted. All ballots will be tabulated in accordance with Montana law with the preliminary results, if known, expected to be released after 8:00 p.m. that day.

A qualified voter who will be absent from the Elementary District during the time the election is being conducted may: (a) vote in person in the office of the County Election Administrator beginning April 12th through 8:00 p.m. on Election Day; or (b) make a written request before noon on May 1, 2023, signed by the applicant and addressed to the office of the County Election Administrator requesting the ballot be mailed to an address other than that which appears on the registration records.

An elector may obtain a replacement ballot if his or her ballot is destroyed, spoiled, lost, or not received by the elector, by filling out and mailing, emailing, or faxing back a completed replacement ballot request form or by the elector personally appearing at the office of the Lake County Election Administrator located at the Lake County Courthouse Room 121, 106 4th Ave E., in Polson, Montana.

Ballots may be returned in person

see page 23

public notices

Legals

cont’d from pg. 22

at the place of deposit listed above, or returned by mail. If returning by mail, please use the then-prevailing first-classpostage price or one Forever Stamp. Postmark date does not apply; ballots returned by mail must be received at the office of the County Election Administrator by 8:00 p.m. Election Day deadline to be counted.

Please note, all electors, as defined in Section 20-20-301, M.C.A., are those who reside within the Elementary District and are registered to vote by the close of registration on April 3, 2023.

For electors who miss the close of registration deadline, such electors may register late and vote in the election by appearing in person at the office of the Lake County Election Administrator located at the Lake County Courthouse Room 121, 106 4th Ave E., in Polson, Montana and providing to the County Election Administrator the electors’ voter registration information in verifiable form prior to 8 p.m. on May 2, 2023. DATED this 6th day of March 2023.

/s/ Toni

Lake

Kramer

County Election Administrator

Request for Proposals

In partnership with the City of Ronan and Ronan Revitalization (a subcommittee of the Ronan Chamber of Commerce), Mission West Community Development Partners is seeking proposals from firms qualified to provide Economic Development and Planning services to the City of Ronan, Montana. The project will result in 1) a Downtown Master Plan; and 2) a 5-Year Economic Development Strategic Plan. For the complete Request for Proposal and project description, please visit https://cityofronan.org/ your-government/request-for-proposal/. Proposal submissions must be submitted to Brenna Fulks Brenna.fulks@missionwestcdp. org by Friday, May 5, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. MST.

April 5, 12, 19, 26 and May 3, 2023

MNAXLP

NOTICE OF HIGH SCHOOL BOND ELECTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of High School District No. 23 (Polson), Lake County (the “High School District”), that pursuant to a resolution duly adopted at a meeting of the Board on February 13, 2023, an election of the registered voters of the High School District will be held by mail ballot election on May 2, 2023 for the purpose of voting on the question of whether the Board may sell and issue general obligation school building bonds of the High School District in one or more series in the aggregate principal amount of up to Sixteen Million Six Hundred Forty-Five Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($16,645,000.00), for the purpose of addressing student safety and deferred maintenance needs, providing job training opportunities, and accommodating student enrollment by paying the costs of designing, constructing, remodeling, equipping, and furnishing improvements to Polson High School, to include constructing a secure main entrance and removing unsecure and unnecessary modular units; constructing additions for job training to include science, technology, engineering, and math classrooms and labs; constructing a new job training center with classrooms, labs, metals fabrication area, woodshop improvements, and tool and material storage; repurposing and expanding space for music education; remodeling the serving kitchen, family and consumer science classrooms, lower level classrooms, and restrooms; making site improvements; and related costs and improvements; and paying costs associated with the sale and issuance of the bonds. Each series of the bonds shall bear interest at a rate or rates to be determined at the time of sale and be payable semiannually during a term of not more than twenty (20) years.

The election will be conducted by the County Election Administrator solely by mail ballot. Ballots will be mailed to all eligible registered voters in the High School District on April 14, 2023, and must be returned by each voter either by mail or in-person to the Lake County Election Administrator, Lake County Courthouse Room 121, 106 4th Ave E., Polson, Montana 59860, during regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to

Service Directory

5:00 p.m.), weekdays (exclusive of holidays), April 17, 2023 through May 1, 2023.

On Election Day, May 2, 2023, the only place for deposit of voted ballots will be the office of the Lake County Election Administrator, Lake County Courthouse Room 121, 106 4th Ave E., Polson, Montana, which will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and all ballots must be in the County Elections Office by 8:00 p.m. All ballots must be in the office of the County Election Administrator by 8:00 p.m. on May 2, 2023, to be counted. All ballots will be tabulated in accordance with Montana law, with the preliminary results, if known, expected to be released after 8:00 p.m. that day.

A qualified voter who will be absent from the High School District during the time the election is being conducted may:

(a) vote in person in the office of the County Election Administrator beginning April 12th through 8:00 p.m. on Election Day; or (b) make a written request before noon on May 1, 2023, signed by the applicant and addressed to the office of the County Election Administrator requesting the ballot be mailed to an address other than that which appears on the registration records.

An elector may obtain a replacement ballot if his or her ballot is destroyed, spoiled, lost, or not received by the elector, by filling out and mailing, emailing, or faxing back a completed replacement ballot request form or by the elector personally appearing at the office of the Lake County Election Administrator located at the Lake County Courthouse Room 121, 106 4th Ave E., in Polson, Montana.

Ballots may be returned in person at the place of deposit listed above, or returned by mail. If returning by mail, please use the then-prevailing first-class-postage price or one Forever Stamp. Postmark date does not apply; ballots returned by mail must be received at the office of the County Election Administrator by 8:00 p.m. Election Day deadline to be counted.

Please note, all electors, as defined in Section 20-20-301, M.C.A., are those who reside within the High School District and are registered to vote by the close of registration on April 3, 2023.

For electors who miss the close of registration deadline, such electors may register late and vote in the election by appearing in person at the office of the Lake County Election Administrator located at the Lake County Courthouse Room

121, 106 4th Ave E., in Polson, Montana and providing to the County Election Administrator the electors’ voter registration information in verifiable form prior to 8 p.m. on May 2, 2023. DATED this 6th day of March 2023.

/s/ Toni Kramer, Lake County Election Administrator

April 5, 12 and 19, 2023

MNAXLP

Classified Ads Work!

Deadline Fridays at Noon $7 for the first fifteen words, 25¢ for each additional word.

$1 fee for bold $1 fee for box/border

$2 fee for color box

Call 406-676-8989