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Vol. 18, No. 37
June 1, 2022
Ronan Revitalization receives $50k grant By Taylor Davison Valley Journal
Retirement pg. 7
Graduations pg. 18
Sports pg. 26
RONAN — During the Ronan Revitalization meeting on May 23, Montana Mainstreet Program representative Taylor Crowl presented the committee and City of Ronan with the option of receiving a $50,000 grant for a downtown master plan for Ronan. A rare offer, only available when the program has extra budget funds, the opportunity would waive the match requirement for the town and let more major plans begin to build out. This shows the Mainstreet Program’s faith in the abilities and hard work put forth by the Ronan team. “We thought this would be a good way to catalyze all of your efforts,” Crowl said to the meeting’s attendees. The offer was met with immediate enthusiasm. While it will mean a lot of work on the local level and a fast turnaround for an
TAYLOR DAVISON / VALEY JOURNAL
A grant of this size will allow Ronan to begin planning bigger projects on a broader scope.
already busy group of people, the Ronan Revitalization group unanimously voted in favor of the offer, which included support from Mayor Chris Adler. “This is an incredible opportunity,” one attendee stated as she voiced her approval. “What a way to start your main street.”
The committee will be given approximately three years to expend the funds, but Crowl stated the timeline could be flexible due to the limited availability of needed professionals and materials in today’s market. One of the first steps will be to get the help of a city planner, (a profession in high
w w w.va l le yj our na l.net
demand at this time), to develop a big picture plan. In the meantime, the committee members showed eagerness to get started on smaller-scale projects they could tackle themselves. Crowl recommended their first endeavor be some sort of land project, which lines up well with the
committee’s improved park undertaking already in the works for the coming year. From there, the committee will begin compiling a planning document based on the project list they created during their April meeting. The list names everything from sidewalk and aesthetic improvements, to local events and possible business attractions for key vacant properties downtown. The committee will eventually get input from local businesses to learn more about their capacity for events. They will also get busy finding contractors and suppliers for upcoming undertakings. While the committee’s stated primary focus has always been community over commerce, bolstering existing activities and businesses will help achieve a balance between the two goals. They may soon explore the tourist side of commerce to better fund their primary goal. see page 2
grant from page 1
Next month’s Ronan Revitalization meeting on June 20 will include representatives of the Montana Mainstreet Program doing a walkthrough of Ronan’s downtown and discussing potential improvements. “It’s the most generous gift we could ask for,” President Whitney Liegakos said, expressing her gratitude for the grant. “I realize it’ll add to the marathon we see ahead of us, but we’ll do our best to run with the torch.”
vj
Juvenile detained for school threat News from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office
ST. IGNATIUS — At about 2 p.m. on May 26, a Lake County Sheriff’s Office School Resource Officer was alerted to social media threats made by a youth indicating the youth was going to come to St. Ignatius High School with a gun and cause harm to others. According to authorities, within minutes of this initial report the youth was located by deputies away from the school and detained. A preliminary investigation resulted in his arrest for the felony crime of intimidation, and a search warrant was executed on his home. The male youth was taken to a custody hearing on May 26 in Lake County District Court, and was decided to be held in detention and transported to the youth facility at Missoula County Detention Facility. The juvenile is now being held in Missoula lockup. 2 - June 1, 2022
County election approaches By Kristi Niemeyer For the Valley Journal
LAKE COUNTY — The Lake County Election Office is gearing up for in-person voting Tuesday, June 7, when polls will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. for the primary election. Absentee ballots must arrive in the election office or polling place by 8 p.m. Tuesday. Election administrator Toni Kramer says people “seem to be confused as to why some are getting ballots in the mail and some are not.” She advises voters to check their registration status at My Voter Page on the Montana Secretary of State’s website, sosmt.gov/elections/. A list of precincts and complete roster of federal, statewide and district candidates are also available. Voter registration forms are available at the county election office or online, and must be printed, filled out and turned in to the local office by noon, June 6. Those voting in person may want to check the current ID requirements, sosmt.gov/ voter-id/voter-in-person-idoptions/. The Valley Journal completes candidate profiles for three contested primaries at the local level this week, with Sheriff-Coroner and Justice of the Peace races (county commissioners were featured last week). For more information on federal and statewide candidates, including the U.S. House of Representatives and Public Service Commission, check out the online election guide published by Montana Free Press (montanafreepress.org). For more info on voting, call
406-883-7268 or the Secretary of State’s toll-free voter hotline: 888-884-VOTE (8683).
Sheriff-Coroner
Lake County Sheriff Don Bell faces opposition in the primary from Ronan police officer Corey White. Since both men are Republicans and face no opposition from Democrats, the winner of the June 7 election will begin a four-year term as sheriff-coroner in 2023. Bell, who grew up in Ronan, served as a tribal police officer for many years and was named Montana Officer of the Year in 2012. He was elected sheriff in 2015, and again in 2018. He earned an associate degree in computer science from Salish Kootenai College, graduated from the Montana Law Enforcement Academy in 1993, and has since garnered the highest level of leadership training offered by the academy. During a three-decade career, he’s completed more than 50 trainings, gaining expertise in areas such as leadership, domestic violence, anti-terrorism, suicide prevention, jail standards and tactical operations. In 2017, he received a Trilogy Award from the FBI-LEEDA’s Supervisor Leadership Institute for completing three leadership programs. He graduated from the FBI Intermountain Executive Law Enforcement Command College in 2020 and completed an Advance Death Investigation course in 2021. White, who was born and raised in Lake County and attended Polson schools, graduated from the Montana Law Valley Journal
Enforcement Academy. He completed the Coroner Basic course and has completed nearly 30 training programs, earning basic, intermediate, and supervisory POST certificates. He is currently a sergeant with the Ronan Police Department and was named 2019 Ronan Police Officer of the Year. He also worked for Lake County and during his career has served as a patrol officer, deputy, deputy coroner, corporal, sergeant and undersheriff. White has investigated and received convictions in major cases such as sexual assaults and embezzlements, maintained budgets, managed social media platforms and implemented community policing-based programs. He’s also proficient in technology, which he describes as “an ever-evolving tool in modern law enforcement.” VJ: What concrete steps would you take to move jail improvements and expansion forward? Bell firmly believes that Lake County needs to build a new jail. “The design of the current facility is inadequate and any expansion will create more costly problems for the county,” he says. He’s hopeful that if the state can be persuaded to fund Public Law-280, the corresponding infusion of revenue could help decrease the burden on local taxpayers. He envisions “a safe, modern facility, where local resources would be made available to inmates for substance abuse and mental health.” According to White, the bond issue for a detention center that was defeated two
years ago was not adequately explained nor promoted to the public. He’s confident taxpayers “will support a levy if needed, if it makes sense and does not break the bank.” He also advocates exploring less expensive options, such as looking for existing buildings that could be converted to a detention center, and “working with outside federal, local, and state agencies to fund and build a new jail.” VJ: Please share your views on the benefits and issues associated with having the county investigate and prosecute felonies charges against Native Americans residing in Lake County under Public Law-280. White supports PL-280 and the county commissioners’ efforts to seek assistance from the state in funding the estimated $4 million in associated costs. “All entities need to work together to resolve this issue” without “driving a wedge between positive working relationships.” If a new agreement and funding solution can’t be found, “we may have to take a serious look at pulling out of PL-280, because Lake County’s budget simply cannot keep going the way that it is without additional funding.” “Local policing is a critical component to the quality of life of a community,” says Bell. Without the agreement, the federal government – “where bureaucracy reigns supreme” – would take over felony prosecutions for Native Americans, making it harder “for citizens to access and hold accountable see page 5
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This Week’s Weather Forecast Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
June 2
June 3
June 4
June 5
June 6
72°/46°
74°/49°
74°/51°
70°/50°
68°/48°
67°/47°
Partly Cloudy 3% chance precipitation
Mostly Cloudy 13% chance precipitation
Mostly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation
Mostly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation
Mostly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation
June 1
Tuesday June 7
Mostly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation
68°/47°
Mostly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation
Flathead Lake Level 2888.87 ft WED
06/01
5:43 am
9:26 pm
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06/04
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Valley Journal
(4.13 ft below full pool)
Today in History June 1, 2021 High 83° F Low 48° F Precipitation 0.00 inches Record High 91° F Record Low 30° F June 1, 2022 - 3
contents Marijuana ...................... 6
Schools ...................... 15
Courts .......................... 8
Sports ...................... 26
Valley Views ............... 10
Obituaries .................. 32
Chainsaw carving ...... 14
Classifieds ................. 37
TAYLOR DAVISON / VALLEY JOURNAL
juxtaposition
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Valley Journal The Valley Journal newspaper (PE 23-190) is published weekly by Valley Journal LLC. Periodicals postage paid at Ronan, MT. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Distribution is by mail subscription ($59 per year in Lake County, MT; $74 per year elsewhere in U.S.) and by newsstand sales. Postmaster: send address changes to Valley Journal, P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT. 59864. Your homegrown newspaper serves residents of Lake 4 - June 1, 2022
2022 County and the Flathead Indian Reservation. Deadline for display advertising is 2 p.m.Thursday. Deadline for news submissions, calendar items, classifieds and legal advertising is noon Friday, for the following week’s newspaper. News, letters to the editor and calendar submissions may be sent by email to: vjeditor@valleyjournal.net. Classified and legal advertisements requests should be emailed to: vjmail@valleyjournal.net. All print subscriptions include full access to online news, Valley Journal
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election from page 2
those who are in authority.” He applauds commissioners and legislators for their efforts “to provide some funding relief.” VJ: How can county law enforcement better address drug-related crimes? Aside from building a larger jail facility, Bell believes his department is “already doing everything in our power to curb drug-related crime.” The office has a full-time detective assigned to the regional drug task force who works closely with tribal, local, state, and federal agencies and partners. Patrol deputies also work hard to curtail drug trafficking within the county. He notes that the roots of drug and substance abuse “lie within the community” and are often beyond the scope of law enforcement. He’s encouraged by an increase in local treatment options and efforts of the 20th Judicial District Drug Court and the Never Alone Recovery Hall in Ronan to support sobriety. White advocates more cooperation between law enforcement agencies and better staff training on how to investigate drug trafficking and related crimes. A new jail would help law enforcement hold people accountable, especially if it included an in-house chemical dependency program “to better help individuals before they are released.” The sheriff ’s department “needs to work on using drug court and work alongside probation and parole to ensure that individuals are staying on track,” he adds. VJ: What steps can be taken to improve working
relationships between law enforcement partners in Lake County? While White believes “most of the patrol officers in all agencies work well with each other,” he perceives a lack of communication at the administrative level. “Sharing information is something that does not seem to happen anymore and could be a valuable resource to help investigate or prevent crimes.” He suggests establishing more multi-jurisdictional teams beyond the drug task force “to better the law enforcement response to our community.” Bell notes that Lake County is “fortunate to have so many cooperating agencies” at work here. Although each has its own responsibilities “when there is overlap, we all pull together to help each other.” Still, there’s room for strengthening relationships with partners and finding new ways to cooperate. The key, says Bell, “lies in honesty and communication among each other.” VJ. What qualities do you bring to the position? As the incumbent, Bell touts “a proven track record” and effective leadership. Over the past eight years, he says the department “has enjoyed a lot of success in bringing justice to some of the major crimes that have occurred in the county.” He attributes those accomplishments, in part, “to the level of accountability I expect in the office, which has brought stability to an agency that had a fair amount of controversy prior to my first election.” In turn, he says the sheriff ’s office has seen an increase in community support – a crucial component in helping “local law enforcement do our jobs.” White says he brings “hard
work, dedication and compassion to everything I do in this career,” and promises to reduce turnover in the department. “I stand behind proactive policing and being involved in the community,” he says. If elected sheriff, he would strive to “empower the staff to do their jobs” and supply the guidance, tools, structure, and resources to help train and retain quality individuals.
Justice of the Peace
Three candidates are competing in the non-partisan race for Justice of the Peace – Tony Isbell and Rick Schoening both have strong backgrounds in law enforcement, while Mike Larson is currently serving as Polson city judge. The top two vote-getters face off in the November general election. Isbell cites a diverse background, strong work ethic, and long career in law enforcement as his main qualifications to serve as JP. “I am tough on crime,” he says. He earned bachelor’s degrees in business administration and human resources before pursuing a career in law enforcement that soon led to felony investigations of offenses ranging from domestic assault to sex crimes. He became a shift commander and field training officer before leaving the Miles City Police Department to become a Montana Highway Patrol trooper stationed in Polson, where he began a “relentless pursuit of drug crimes.” He was elected to the Polson City Commission in 2019 and has sought to improve communications between the city and the public during his tenure. Since retiring from law enforcement, he’s focused on his construction and property management businesses. Valley Journal
Larson, who was hired as Polson city judge last year, says his training and experience in that courtroom give him “the experience and skills to manage a judicial court.” The job, he says, “requires the skills of legal knowledge, depth of thought and judgement, while always functioning within the boundaries of the Montana and U.S. constitutions.” Larson grew up in Missoula, attended the University of Montana, earned bachelor’s degrees in history and sociology from Brigham Young University, and took additional graduate courses in business administration at Utah State University. He has owned several businesses in Lake County and describes himself as “a very active community leader.” His wife, Mary, is a retired elementary teacher and currently the STEM academy director at Salish Kootenai College. Together, they share “a fundamental care for the citizens of Lake County,” he says. Schoening graduated from the University of Montana with a bachelor’s in wildlife biology and a minor in secondary education. He graduated from the Montana Law Enforcement Academy in 1981 and has lived in the Mission Valley for nearly four decades. He spent 21 years working as a Montana Fish & Game warden and another seven years as a Polson police officer. Those career experiences “allowed me to get a grasp on the complexity of jurisdictional issues present here,” he says. Among his other pursuits, Schoening has been a volunteer hunter’s education instructor and frequent thespian with the Port Polson Players. He and his wife, Carolyn, celebrate
their 45th wedding anniversary in July. The couple has three grown children and two grandchildren, and both of their sons continue to live, work, and raise their families in the Mission Valley. VJ: Recurring DUIs are all too routine in Lake County — are there innovative steps you, as JP, would take toward keeping drunk drivers off the road? According to Larson, the JP has a responsibility to sentence appropriately, and disincentivize a repeat appearance. “This is where experience and common sense prevails” and the handling of a first offense “is critical.” Schoening points out that the requirement for mandatory jail time for repeat DUIs “has been a real challenge due to the current jail situation.” He cites an “excellent working relationship with Sheriff Bell and his detention staff ” as well as first-hand knowledge, both as a certified Breathalyzer operator and someone who has made numerous DUI arrests, as helpful tools in the courtroom. Isbell plans to begin a DUI court to help combat repeat offenders. “If people cannot learn through accountability, I have no problem with people sitting some time if they continue to receive charges,” he says. VJ: Domestic abuse is also an ongoing issue here: How do you see the JP’s role in helping to keep victims safe? Schoening says his time as a detective for the Polson police “thrust me into serious domestic abuse situations, including children and elders.” If elected JP, he vows to promptly execute protection orders and follow up, working closely with Child Protection Services and Safe
see page 6
June 1, 2022 - 5
election from page 5
Harbor “to ensure the victims are supported as much as possible.” Isbell says his experience in domestic investigations has given him insights into what victims go through and notes that connecting people with community services “is a team effort.” “Justice Court is not the endall, be-all, but have assurance there will be accountability,” he adds. Larson notes that Family Member Partner Abuse “is the most difficult situation facing any judge.” The victim’s safety needs to come “first and foremost,” despite the limited protection that the courts and law enforcement can provide. VJ: With recreational marijuana now legal in Lake County, do you anticipate an uptick in pot-related misdemeanors? Are there adequate laws to address those issues? Isbell, who worked with several legislators to try to get stiffer laws on the books, anticipates seeing an increase in citations for public use of marijuana and DUIs. “I will follow the recommendations of our laws for these charges,” he says. Larson calls the legalization of recreational marijuana “a two-sided sword for the courts.” On one hand, legalization is apt to create an increase in DUI citations. On the other, the glut of misdemeanor offenses for marijuana and paraphernalia possession should decrease significantly. “I anticipate it will lessen the burden on the court overall,” he says. Schoening believes the state’s DUI statute should be adequate to cope with pot-related impairment. “I have great faith in our local law enforcement officers’ 6 - June 1, 2022
training and abilities,” he adds. “I feel Justice Court will have no problem with adjudicating DUIs involving intoxicating substances, whatever they may be.” VJ: What aspect of the job seems most enjoyable to you? Schoening anticipates educating people “who are summoned in front of my bench” by reviewing the complete statute before they make their plea. He also looks forward to working with the staff and promises “to do my best to make it a fun environment.” For Larson, the daily successes that occur in court “keep the oxygen in the job.” Isbell looks forward to bringing back community service requirements. “I want people to learn that working and being a productive community member is what brings a quality of life,” he says. VJ: What specific qualities would you bring to the post? Larson says he is “acutely aware of the demands of being your new JP” and believes he has “the necessary qualifications and experience to meet the expectations of the citizens of Lake County.” Isbell says his law enforcement background helps him understand “what’s not only fair, but legal.” He also has extensive experience in search and seizure and knows how much Montanans value their right to privacy. His knowledge and experience in the executive branch of government and the private sector are also assets. Schoening touts the experience and “common sense” accrued during a 35-year career in law enforcement. He has enforced all of the laws that Justice Court adjudicates, giving him “an excellent grasp on how the law should be applied.”
vj
Lake County to vote on marijuana tax By M.S. Sacry For the Valley Journal
LAKE COUNTY — Recreational marijuana has been legal in Montana since January 1, and medical marijuana has been legal in the state since 2004, but neither are taxed locally in Lake County. That could change on election day. Voters will decide whether to impose a 3% local tax on the sale of recreational and medicinal marijuana. Currently, the state has a 20% tax on recreational cannabis, and a 4% tax on the medicinal kind. As of April, more than $98 million of marijuana had been sold so far in the state for 2022, generating more than $13.5 million in revenue for state government. So far, four counties have opted to impose a local tax: Dawson, Missoula, Yellowstone, and Park Counties. The state has allowed all counties to impose an additional local 3% tax that will be apportioned with 50% going to the county, with 5% sent to the Montana Department of Revenue, and the remaining 45% split between cities and towns based on population size. Based on the population sizes of incorporated communities within Lake County, 64% of the remainder will be allocated for Polson, 25% will be allocated for Ronan, and 12% will be sent to St. Ignatius. “The Commissioners have not had any discussions on how any tax revenue might be used. We have plenty of needs, but without knowing what voters will decide it seems premature to determine how we might spend it,” County Commissioner Gale Decker said. Decker noted that the issue of taxing recreational marijuana and taxing medicinal marijuana will be presented separately on the ballot. Valley Journal
“As a voter I will support the taxation of recreational marijuana only,” Decker said. “Marijuana is an alternative medical treatment and I am not ready to support taxing its use due to what it might do in the future to other alternative medical treatments such as acupuncture.” Decker also said there aren’t any projections on how much revenue the initiative might bring in. But the state is keeping a running estimated tab of how much marijuana has been sold monthly. Through April, the state estimates that more than $1.8 million in recreational and medicinal marijuana has been sold in Lake County. Recreational sales have dwarfed medicinal sales. In April, for instance, there was an estimated $385,447.09 of recreational marijuana sold in Lake County. By contrast, the state estimates $88,874.98 of recreational marijuana was sold. Polson City Manager Ed Meece told the City Commission in December 2021 that he would expect the revenue to hit the county’s coffers soon after the election if it is passed. “I’m guessing that we start collections in August of 2022, about a month into the next fiscal year,” Meece told the commissioners. During that initial approval by the commission, Commissioner Carolyn Pardini was critical of why it took so long to get the issue on the ballot, as other counties have already been collecting revenues for several months. “If we had passed this in November, we would have been collecting revenue sooner,” Pardini said. She said she supported the move, based on what she had seen in visiting Spokane, where recreational marijuana has been legal since 2012. “I think over time this will be a significant dependable revenue stream for the county and the city,” Pardini said.
Interim wells plan passed News from the Flathead Water Management Board
FLATHEAD RESERVATION — The Flathead Reservation Water Management Board took action April 29 to adopt a two-part interim process to apply for a new use of groundwater for an individual or shared domestic purpose. Before drilling a well or developing a spring, a water user must receive approval to develop a Domestic Allowance. Commencing on June 1, applicants who have not constructed a groundwater well may apply to the Board for Authorization to Construct a Domestic Allowance for an individual or shared well. Starting on July 1, applicants who constructed a groundwater well between Sept. 17, 2021 and June 1 may apply to the Board for authorization for an individual or shared domestic allowance. These applicants must file before Sept. 29 to get in compliance during this grace period. The Flathead Reservation Water Management Board has finalized application forms, which are now available at the State DNRC Compact Implementation Program website and Tribal Water Right Offices and website. Completed domestic allowance forms will be received at the Board’s P.O. Box (which will be listed on the forms) when the application periods open. Recordings of meetings and notice of future Board meetings will be posted on DNRC Compact Implementation Program and CSKT Water Rights websites: DNRC Compact Implementation Program – http:// dnrc.mt.gov/divisions/water/water-compact-implementation-program/confederated-salish-and-kootenai-tribes-compact CSKT Water Rights – https://csktribes.org/index. php/water-rights/flathead-reservation-water-mgmt-board
Judge Manley retires from drug court By Kristi Niemeyer For the Valley Journal
LAKE COUNTY — Judge Jim Manley’s next to last drug court was both raucous and poignant, a celebration and a farewell. It was also a testimonial to how the justice system, working in concert with a supportive community, can transform lives. Supreme Court Justice Ingrid Gustafson – a former district judge in Yellowstone County who established one of the first adult treatment courts in the state – was on hand to watch the proceedings. She also presented Manley, who retires May 31 after nine years on the bench, with a plaque from the High Court, honoring his “great achievements, considerable hard work and dedication.” Also on hand were the four candidates for his job – attorneys Ben Anciaux, Kathryn McEnery, Molly Owen and Alisha Rapkoch. Gov. Gianforte is expected to name his replacement this week. Manley, who credits Gustafson with helping him launch the 20th Judicial District Drug Court, stressed to the would-be judges the importance of community support, as evidenced by the enthusiastic crowd in the courtroom May 19. “The most important thing, the
KRISTI NIEMEYER
Drug Court graduates Alex Finley and Patrick Matt flank retiring District Court Judge Jim Manley, while Supreme Court Justice Ingrid Gustafson looks on.
most effective thing is I watch people become part of a new community. I see people coming together and helping each other and wanting to look good in each other’s eyes,” he said. During the past decade, he’s witnessed the local recovery community flourish from a handful of people to more than 300. “Now, it’s cool to be in recovery.” According to Judge Gustafson, the same outcomes are visible across Montana, which is now
home to 31 district drug courts and five tribal drug courts. It’s a movement often spearheaded by judges, who see people with substance abuse disorders again and again in their courtrooms. “You really feel like you’re part of the problem because you’re churning people through the judicial system and not getting them the assistance they need to really turn their lives around.” While drug court can be de-
see page 8
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June 1, 2022 - 7
judge from page 7
manding, as a district judge “you’re putting in a lot of time anyway” with often discouraging results, says Gustafson. “I’d rather put in extra time at the front end to see somebody do better and not come back again.” She started a felony drug court in Yellowstone County – the state’s largest and most populous judicial district – and between May 2008 and October 2020, they’ve tracked significant improvements in families’ lives. Among participants, the court saw a 40% increase in the number of adults getting valid driver’s licenses and a 55% jump in the amount of education their children received, and of the 220 babies born to participants, 91.6% were born drug free. In Manley’s courtroom those statistics were translated into life experiences. Danny, sober for 1,054 days, has custody of his 4-year-old daughter and works at KwaTaqNuk; Angie has 1,243 days of sobriety under her belt, will complete her bachelor’s degree in social work next year, and serves as assistant drug court coordinator. Juanita, who was a meth addict for 29 years, has been sober for two years and 10 months, will graduate in June with an associate degree in chemical dependency counseling, and is the house mother for
courts
the women’s sober living center in Ronan. Two men – Patrick Matt and Alex Finley – graduated from Drug Court May 19, and each was introduced by Judge Manley before sharing their stories. Matt, a performing artist and community activist, told attendees that there’s often talk of the need for a drug treatment center on the Flathead Reservation. “Prior to my participation in drug court, I did not know there were so many people in the fight for sobriety, and that there were people, walking it out day in and day out, really making a difference,” he said. “What I’ve realized is every person in this room that’s part of drug court is a walking treatment center.” The program itself is demanding and transformative, and he called the leadership “exemplary.” “One of the best things is that you do it alongside people who are walking it out – just like you – people who have taken the journey before.” Manley introduced Finley as “maybe the toughest guy I know, but he may have also had the toughest upbringing of anybody I know.” Finley explained that he’s been in and out of the court system for two decades, since he turned 18. “A lot of us Native people felt we were just thrown to the wolves back then, locked
KRISTI NIEMEYER
Justice Ingrid Gustafson gives retiring District Court Judge Jim Manley a plaque from the Montana Supreme Court in honor of his many years of service, both as a judge and as an attorney.
up and the key thrown away.” But drug court has helped him turn his life around and resume responsibility for his six children. “I wouldn’t have my kids, I wouldn’t have my family and I probably wouldn’t have my life if it weren’t for Judge Manley and this program,” he said. “I’ve embraced it with everything that I am, to change, to be an example, and not just for my kids but for the ones who are struggling and don’t think they can make it.” “Honestly, if I can do this, you all can do this,” he added. “Believe in yourself because you’re worth it, and drug court and the people in it do care. You have
all the support you need in this program.” As a Native, Finley grew up feeling “like we were not given a fair chance at all in this community – our own home, our own land.” His experience with drug court gave him that chance. Those who succeed “have proved that we are worth it, that our families are worth it, that we can do it and that we can be great citizens of our own community.” Gustafson, who visits drug courts across the state, says that while each has “its own character and differences, they all develop a really strong community with participants. You have to hold people accountable, but
you’re also empowering them to change their lives and engage with other people who have walked the same journey.” She advises Manley’s successor to first recognize that people with substance abuse disorders are dealing with a disease, and often relapse. “You have to expect that, work through that and teach them about their disease so that they can manage it.” Unlike in a standard courtroom, judges also need to directly engage with participants. “You get much better results if you spend at least three minutes talking to them and interacting with them,” she advises. “It’s still a courtroom and we’re still doing important work in here, but the work we’re doing and how we’re doing it is just slightly different.” She expressed admiration for the cultural component of Lake County’s program and how it’s helped build such a vibrant recovery community for Native Americans. She also noted that several people attending drug court had yet to be formally inducted. “It tells me that the recovery community is reaching out to people who have problems and they’re seeing court as a resource.” “It’s wonderful to come here and see that,” she added. “We’re definitely going to miss Judge Manley.”
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Stories by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal
Haworth sentenced to 20 years for vehicular homicide
POLSON — An Arlee woman who pleaded guilty April 7 to vehicular homicide while under the influence was sentenced at District Court in Polson on 8 - June 1, 2022
May 26 to 20 years in the Montana State Women’s Prison with 10 years suspended. The sentence for Shannon Sierra Haworth, 19, was handed down ex-
actly two days shy of the anniversary of the death of Ryan Lefthand. According to court records, just after midnight on May 28, 2021, as a
Lake County Sheriff’s deputy was returning to the Lake County Courthouse in Polson, the deputy observed a vehicle approaching with no headlights on.
Valley Journal
The deputy made a traffic stop on the vehicle. The driver, later identified as Haworth, seemed distraught and admitted to consuming alcohol earlier.
As the deputy was waiting for back-up to arrive, Haworth took off south bound on U. S. Highway 93 at a high rate of speed.
see page 9
courts Stories by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal
Haworth from page 8
The deputy lost sight of Haworth’s vehicle. Other law enforcement officers intercepted the vehicle as it traveled through Pablo with speeds reaching up 120 miles per hour. Pursuing law enforcement officers were unable to close the gap between them and Haworth. Haworth’s vehicle moved into the northbound lane and struck another motorist head-on, killing Lefthand, the driver and lone occupant of the vehicle, instantly. Haworth, who made her initial court appearance in August 2021 while confined to a wheelchair with visible injuries to her lower extremities, had to be airlifted from the scene of the crash to an area hospital. Judge Karen Townsend also ordered Haworth pay restitution to the Lefthand family. Although the amount of restitution was not pronounced by Judge Townsend, Lake County Attorney Steve Eschenbacher says it’s just over $72,000.
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Glass sentence deferred
POLSON — The imposition of sentencing for a Polson man caught with fentanyl hidden in his body was deferred for three years. Jimmy Justin Glass, 41, was given credit for time served of 146 days during his senJimmy Glass tencing hearing at District Court in Polson on May 25. Glass was booked into the Lake County jail on New Year’s
Eve. He entered a plea of guilty at District Court in Polson on April 6 to felony charges of criminal possession of dangerous drugs. The plea was entered as part of a plea agreement that dismisses one count of felony tampering with or fabricating physical evidence. According to charging documents, on Dec. 30, 2021, law enforcement officers were paged out to a report of loud music coming from a newer white Toyota 4 Runner parked at a trailer park in Pablo. The responding officers observed the suspected
white Toyota traveling away from the trailer park and could hear loud music coming from it. The officer initiated a traffic stop on the Toyota. Glass was identified as the driver. He told the officer that he was on probation from Idaho and was the designated driver as his passengers were consuming alcohol. The officer placed Glass under arrest and brought him to the Lake County jail. Meanwhile, a passenger of the Toyota indicated that Glass was trafficking counterfeit fentanyl pills into Lake County from out of state. A foul
odor in the Toyota led investigators to believe that someone may have attempted to hide pills inside their body. Back at the jail, detention staff had Glass relieve himself in a dry toilet. That’s when they allegedly located a baggie containing blue fentanyl pills and other non-bagged, or “loose” fentanyl pills. Prosecutor James Lapokta wrote in charging documents that Glass “risked fatally overdosing by concealing pills in his anus to avoid being caught.” Judge James Manley also issued Glass a fine of $1,000.
Mother and son sentenced for involvement in Blackweasel death POLSON — A mother from St. Ignatius and her adult son were sentenced, one right after the other, at District Court in Polson on May 25 for their involvement in the death of 18-year-old Saul
Blackweasel last January. Rope Kinkade Ardis, 20, was sentenced to the Montana State Prison for eight years with none of that time suspended on one count of vehicular homicide while under the
Valley Journal
influence. His mother, Roberta Virginia Asencio, 40, had the imposition of sentencing deferred for three years and was ordered to serve 30 days in jail. She learned her fate after her son was already led out of
the court room in handcuffs to start serving his time. The sentences were handed down by Judge James Manley. It was Judge Manley’s last day serving the 20th Judicial District.
see page 12
June 1, 2022 - 9
valley views The origins of paparazzi P
aparazzi - love them or hate them, they have become a fixture of our modern world. The word “Paparazzi” evokes images of pushy hordes of photographers crowding celebrities, all angling to get the best shot. While it might feel like this is a normal part of celebrity culture, it hasn’t always been this way. To understand the beginnings of the paparazzi, we’ll need to take a trip back in time to pre-WW2 Italy. The dictator Benito Mussolini was an avid film enthusiast. Inspired by Hollywood, in the 1930s he constructed a grand studio complex on the outskirts of Rome called Cinecitta. While Italy remained under the fascist dictator, the studio was mostly relegated to making nationalist propaganda film, with, at best, mediocre results. The complex was closed in the final days of the war as the Allies bombed Rome. After the war came to an end and Mussolini was removed from power, a new wave of
directors began to create Fellini’s Casanova, and movies about real life. A Cleopatra all came out of new style of film which this era. This golden age of dropped much of the profilmmaking ushered in an paganda polish for a gritti- unprecedented number of er reality of life in post-war famous movie stars to the Italy became eternal city. known as However, “NeorealRome’s new ism.” Unlike glittery the propaglamour ganda that image dispreceded played only them, such one side of films became the story. ben there internationPost-war DONE that ally sucItaly was Ben Stone cessful and extremely Media Production, Valley Journal acclaimed. challenged Rome subeconomsequently claimed its place ically. While movie stars on the global cinema map. painted the eternal city As time went on, the eter- red, the day-to-day reality nal city developed into a for the everyday Italian hot spot for filmmaking, was far less optimistic. resulting in the massive Work was scarce and times Cinecitta complex being were tough. Unable to reopened. find work, an enterprising Soon, Hollywood progroup of unemployed phoductions started to move tographers discovered an more and more large-scale innovative way to pay bills. productions to Rome. They perceived that tourAmbitious and visionary ists and newspapers would directors fulfilled their pay very handsomely for dreams in lower costs and candid photos of the rich large-scale sets. Legendand famous. After a phoary movies like Ben-Hur, tographer captured images
of a particularly scandalous 1958 high-profile party, tabloids and newspapers went wild for the images. Thus, freelance photographers realized that scandal pays. Consequently, they began to search for the most outrageous photos possible, hoping to secure a big payout. If celebs weren’t acting badly, the freelancers would even personally provoke them to do so. This more realistic look into the lives of celebrities stood in sharp contrast to the perfect, glamourous image these stars projected to the world. Prior to this, the stars had been able to portray this polished exterior with little to break the illusion. As a result, such photographers depicted these largerthan-life figures as not so different from you and me. Interesting enough, the shattering of this illusion didn’t quell the public’s interest in celebrities. In fact, the published photos fueled a heightened curiosity. Exposing the flaws and shortcomings of the
famous allowed us to see ourselves in their stories, resulting in a one-way false sense of connection to them. This phenomenon has dramatically intensified in modern times as smartphones brought cameras into the hands of everyone, and social media has given us all a place to publish. The 1950s culture of uninvited photographers hounding famous movie stars on the streets of Rome became so ubiquitous that Italian filmmaker Federico Fellini decided to make a movie about it. In 1960, he released the groundbreaking threehour film “La Dolce Vita,” or in English, “The Sweet Life.” The film was basically an autobiography of the eternal city’s golden age of film. The story also centered around the ravenous photographers who emerged from this era and, to a large degree, documented it. The main photographer of the story was named “Paparazzo.” Fellini once noted that the name was inspired by the
to Seattle. It was a short flight, but long enough to teach me something. During the boarding process, I had switched seats
places. I didn’t want to, but I could see she’d find the aisle more comfortable, so I agreed. Twenty minutes into the flight, I started to regret my act of kindness. I was feeling cramped, and
frustrated that I couldn’t stretch my legs. Regret soon morphed into resentment, and I began to stew. Why had she asked to switch? If I’d wanted the window seat, I’d have
Keep an eye on the bigger picture I
was flying home after facilitating my Difficult Conversations workshop at Idaho State University. It was the first leg of my return journey, a puddle-jump on a small turbo-prop from Pocatello 10 - June 1, 2022
with a fellow traveler. I’d reserved an aisle seat, 14A, but the person Kern Beare who reserved Peacevoice 14B, the window seat, asked if we could switch
Valley Views
Valley Journal
see page 11
sound of annoying insects like a fly or mosquito, reflecting the nuisance these photographers were to the stars. “Paparazzi” surfaced as the name for the profession, as we know it today, thanks to the international acclaim of the film.
LETTER POLICY
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picture from page 10
reserved the window seat! And she’s not even that much bigger than me, she would have been fine sitting in the window seat! I let this fruitless internal dialogue rage on for a minute or two, and then finally interrupted myself long enough to point out that I was undoing any personal benefit I might have received from being a nice person. Rather than the positive vibes that come with being considerate of others, I was encasing myself in the emotional equivalent of barbed wire – every resentful thought a painful poke at my insides. So, taking a lesson from my workshop, I decided to refocus my attention and looked out the window to the vista below. At that point we were flying over the snow-capped Sawtooth mountain range, and I impulsively tapped my seatmate on the shoulder and pointed to the beautiful view outside. She removed the earphones she’d been using and
gazed out the window. Looking out the window together gave us a chance to chat a bit, which opened another window, one that gave me a small glimpse into her life. She’d been in Pocatello over the Mother’s Day weekend to watch her grandchild so that her daughter, a single mother, could get some rest. Now she was headed back to Seattle where a full week of work awaited her. I could tell she was tired. A busy mother helping another busy mother over Mother’s Day. It was a little sad – where were the men who should be celebrating them? – but also moving. By the end of this short conversation my resentment was gone. I felt good about my decision to switch seats, glad that after a tiring few days she at least had a more comfortable ride home. This little episode reaffirmed for me the value of two related principles I talk about in my workshop: the importance of prioritizing the relationship over being right, and being able to
see beyond our own story. Focusing just on my grievances — my ‘story’ — only amplified my discomfort and resentment. Focusing on the relationship forced me to widen my lens, to see beyond my story to take in the humanity of the other person – and to let that have a bearing, an influence, not only on how I saw the situation, but also on how I felt about it, and on how I responded. A Hindu parable, recently sent to me by a friend, makes a similar point in perhaps a more memorable way: An aging master grew tired of his apprentice complaining, and so, one morning, sent him for some salt. When the apprentice returned, the master instructed the unhappy young man to put a handful of salt in a glass of water and drink it. “How does it taste?” the master asked. “Bitter” said the apprentice, spitting it out. The master then asked the young man to take the same handful of salt and put it in the lake.
After the apprentice swirled his handful of salt in the water, the old man told him to drink from the lake. “How does it taste?” the master asked. “Fresh” said the apprentice. “Do you taste the salt?” asked the master. “No,” said the young man. At this, the master sat beside the young man, and said, “The pain of life is pure salt. But the amount of bitterness we taste depends on the container that holds it. So when you are in pain, the only thing you can do is to enlarge your sense of things. Stop being a glass. Become a lake.” In a difficult conversation, seeing beyond our story and strengthening the relationship is how we turn a glass into a lake. It reduces our bitter (salty) feelings toward the ‘other’ by ‘enlarging our sense of things,’ making us more compassionate, more responsive and, yes, even more happy.
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letters
Talk about gun laws
Editor, I’m appalled by the fact that an 18-year-old can just walk into a gun shop and buy two A-15 assault rifles, then walk into a elementary school and barricades himself in a classroom of innocent children, and start shooting to kill 19 children and two adults - well three, if you count the gun man. I agree with what President Biden said, “When are we going to start standing up to the gun lobbyists in this country?” The only problem is that the Republican party is a bunch of cowards who are afraid to lose their biggest supporter, and that is the NRA. Well, it is time for the Republican party to grow a pair and start thinking of the children and not themselves. This country is getting tired of all these mass shootings that are taking innocent lives of people who are just going about their everyday lives. So, I think that this country’s government elected officials need to get
the gun laws changed. Lynn Delecaris St. Ignatius
Consider the consequences Editor, Make no mistake: opposition to legal abortion is about controlling women, taking women’s rights away, and imposing religious law. If we follow this anti-abortion movement to its logical conclusion, women will be compelled to have babies and will lose the autonomy and equality they have worked so hard to achieve. Women have worked hard for equal rights in this country, but it’s become clear to me how precarious rights are. They can be taken away in a moment. Women only got the right to have their own credit card without their husband’s signature in 1974. Many who oppose legal abortion cite their religion. One of the founding principles of this country is the separation of church see page 12
Now
! g n i Hir Apply on line or ask for an application! Positions available: Line cooks, Expo’s, Dishwashers
Join the team Valley Journal
June 1, 2022 - 11
letters from page 11
and state. Those who wish to restrict the right to abortion are attempting to impose their religious law on other citizens. They may couch their opposition to legal abortion in terms of “pro-life,” but they are actually “pro-birth” and pro-suppression of women’s rights, and the movement has nothing pro-life about it. They would actually confer greater rights on a rapist or family member committing incest than on a woman who has been victimized. If abortion becomes illegal, will those who oppose legal abortion step up to pay for the mother’s health care? For her food and housing? For her education so she can create a better life for her child and not be dependent on the government? Will they step up to pay for those children’s food and housing and education until they are age 18? I don’t believe that anyone makes the decision to have an abortion easily. A woman makes that decision based on what she knows is best for her, her health, and her own family planning in consultation with her own doctor. It should not be made more difficult by politicians who would force a woman to have a baby but care nothing about her circumstances or the consequences. Mary Hodges, T.P.S. Charlo
We can do something
sentencing from page 9
Editor, The killings in this country continue. And in this country, we pride ourselves in our freedoms. These freedoms can make it difficult for our nation’s control over malicious actions. Our freedoms do provide and avenue to those who have malicious tendencies to perpetrate horrible actions before they are stopped. Our ‘freedom factors’ of speaking and acting often prevents early and effective corrective and/or law enforcement actions with the perpetrators. So, what’s the solution? What is called for? Is there a good answer to all this? I happen to think there definitely is. And it is not up to our government. It is up to each of us in our ways of thinking. The mind is a powerful tool. How we think determines how we speak and act. As humans, we each have been endowed with the healing Power of Love. We need widespread discussions on how to change our minds from fear, anger, and harsh judgment to love, joy, and understanding. Our powerful media needs to be writing and talking about this every day, encouraging us to use our minds for peace, harmony, and healing. Bob McClellan Missoula
vj 12 - June 1, 2022
COURTESY PHOTO
Judge Manley was originally going to continue sentencing to June 8, but as it was Manley’s last day the attorneys asked him to continue to the afternoon instead. Manley obliged.
The charges stem from a traffic accident on Back Road south of Polson Jan. 23, 2021. Lake County emergency services were paged out to a report of a one Rope Ardis vehicle rollover that day. At the scene, Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Aaron Day observed that a 2006 Ford Mustang, registered to Ardis, had left the roadway and rolled. Ardis was no lon- Roberta Asencio ger at the scene, but his mother, Roberta Asencio, was. One passenger was being treated by an ambulance crew. Another pasValley Journal
senger, Saul Blackweasel, died at the scene. Asencio allegedly claimed that she did not know where Ardis was. A wallet and identification card belonging to Ardis was found near the wrecked Mustang, along with one shoe. It turned out that another person had picked up Ardis at the crash site and transported him to a relative’s house, then later to St. Luke Hospital in Ronan. While being questioned by law enforcement at the hospital, Ardis admitted to consuming alcohol, but claimed to not know who was driving. He was also in possession of a shoe that matched the one left at the crash site. Phone records show that Ardis had called relatives right after the crash, but did not call 911 to report the crash or seek aid for Blackweasel. Forensic testing showed Ardis’s DNA on the deployed airbag of the Mustang’s steering wheel. It’s the belief of Lake County Attorney Steve Eschenbacher that Roberta Asencio arranged to have her son picked up at the crash site and
taken away. Saul Blackweasel’s mother, Ashley Gervais, testified at the sentencing. She asked Ardis how he could have just left his best friend laying in a ditch. “He loved you!” she said repeatedly. She also spoke of how close the two friends were. She spoke about how they’ve been friends since the age of seven. Gervais held back tears as she spoke of the damage to her son’s body and how that impacted her ability to have an open casket at his funeral services. Other family members took the stand. One question they shared was what happened to Saul Blackweasel’s cell phone, as its whereabouts are unknown. It was learned through the required pre-sentence investigation that Ardis had multiple DUI convictions leading up to the night of Blackweasel’s death. In addition to the eight-year prison term, Judge Manley ordered Ardis pay restitution in the amount of $21,962.70.
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Valley Journal
June 1, 2022 - 13
Ronan hosts third ‘Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous’ By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal
RONAN — After a hiatus caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ronan Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous is coming back for its third year with plenty to offer. Running June 9-12, festivities begin daily at 9 a.m. and continue until 6 p.m. Friday evening ends with an auction of around 20 quick carves and closing out the show on Sunday afternoon is the auction of artists’ big carvings. The rendezvous will be a busy venue throughout the weekend with vendors selling everything from food to crafts, the VFW putting on a community center breakfast, and the Mission Mountain Quilt Guild hosting a show as well. The main feature will be the nine renowned chainsaw carvers working on their art, some of whom have done carving all over the world, like Thor From Earth, who once competed in England at the Queen’s summer home. The annual rendezvous, which began in 2018, was spearheaded by Ronan resident Ronna Walchuk. She had been trying to come up with a unique event that would appeal to the entire community. So, she went back to her roots. She and her family had been in the local timber industry all her life. Walchuk was once involved in a horse-logging business. When the idea of chainsaw carving came to her, she knew it would go over well. “It’s a good fit for our timber industry here, and it’s a good fit for Ronan,” Walchuk said. Ronan residents Bill Bartel, 14 - June 1, 2022
SUSAN LAKE PHOTOS
Some of the attending chainsaw carvers have done their artwork all over the world. Many carvers from previous Ronan events will return again this year.
Susan Lake, and Adele Vincent, agreed to help, moving the idea from conception to reality. “It wouldn’t be possible without the committee,” Walchuk said. From there, support for the event only grew. Walchuk
reached out to a friend involved with chain chainsaw carving to get them to talk to the Ronan Chamber and to help drum up talented participants. Those carvers have been attending since day one. Local businesses Valley Journal
and individuals stepped up to sponsor the rendezvous, some providing food and lodging to visiting carvers. The carvers themselves even help out. Whenever Walchuk has a question about how best to tackle an element of the event, she calls up the carvers to get their input. All the contributing people
make Ronan’s chainsaw carving event a success year after year, Walchuk emphasized. “The community really, really came to town for this,” she said. “We couldn’t have done it without them.” This year’s rendezvous still needs volunteers. To get involved, call Walchuk at 406261-7579.
schools ‘Safe Schools Summit’ scheduled News from the Jeremy Bullock Memorial Trust
BUTTE — All of us at the Jeremy Bullock Memorial Trust, including Jeremy’s parents, are devastated by the news of another mass shooting at an elementary school where nineteen children and two teachers will never come home. We are heartbroken for the families and the community who lost loved ones and must endure this unbearable pain. Jeremy Bullock was the unintended victim of a school shooting on April 12, 1994, at Margaret Leary Elementary School in Butte. In memory of Jeremy, his family and friends established the Jeremy Bullock Memorial Trust to
seek solutions - to support school safety with tools and strategies that promote positive climate and culture. The Trust, with the support of The University of Montana Safe Schools Center, Montana Office of Public Instruction, Butte School District #1, and the Butte Police Department, will host the third annual Jeremy Bullock Safe Schools Summit on Aug. 9-10 in Butte. “There is always a need to be vigilant, trained, ready, kind and compassionate. We must lead with these traits and provide support to the students and teachers who are having to deal with so many things.” says Robin and Bill Bullock, Jeremy’s parents. “We are in shock, angry,
and saddened by what we see. There is a long journey ahead for all those impacted by these tragedies - one we had hoped that no other family or community would need to endure - yet almost 30 years later these tragedies continue. As a combined group of educators, parents, teachers, law enforcement, and mental health professionals, we are committed to help provide resources and expertise to aid our educators, students, parents, and communities. Our sympathies and prayers go out to the families, students, teachers and community.” Additional information about the Summit and the Trust can be found at: https://jeremybullocksafeschools.com.
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Local students earn Montana University System scholarships News from the Montana University System
MONTANA — The Montana University System has awarded the prestigious Montana University System Honor Scholarship to students out of Polson High School: Jazlyn Dalbey, Ryan Dupuis, and Taleah Hernández. The MUS Honor Scholarship is a renewable scholarship offered by the Montana Board of Regents that waives undergraduate tuition for up to eight semesters at any campus of the Montana University System or Dawson, Flathead Valley, or Miles community colleges. The scholarship’s average value is $20,000. It is the most prestigious scholarship offered centrally by the
Montana University System. Students offered this scholarship must be graduates of an accredited Montana high school with a minimum grade point average of 3.4 at the end of their seventh semester in high school, take either the ACT or SAT standardized test, meet college core requirements, and attend an eligible Montana campus. “These scholarships are for Montana’s best and brightest, and we are honored to be able to provide them,” said Clayton Christian, Commissioner of Higher Education. “We look forward to these students choosing the Montana institution of their choice and getting a great education right here in the state.”
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Funds help refresh Ronan Middle School library By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal
RONAN — The Ronan Middle School Library recently announced they have been awarded a $5,000 grant from the Laura Bush Foundation for America’s Libraries. “It was pretty exciting,” said RMS librarian Amy Miller. The library grant was awarded to 300 schools throughout the country with the goal of encouraging all students to develop a love of reading and learning. According to the Laura Bush Foundation website, since its inception in 2002, it has awarded more than $19.5 million to over 3,300 schools throughout the U.S. “Students across the country turn to books to discover the world around them and we know that opening a new book opens the door to new opportunities and learning,” Laura Bush stated on the website. Miller learned about the application period for the grant through a librarian Facebook group she belongs to and decided to take a chance and apply. While she’s done a lot of work keeping the middle school library up-to-date through the years, she said there are certain sections that need more work than others. When the letter came through that they had won, it opened up the possibility for a lot of improvement. The nonfiction section, Miller said, is the primary focus for the grant funds. Apparently much of the out-of-date book weeding has impacted that section, with many volumes about science, engineering, natural sciences, and other STEM-related topics, no longer accurate. 16 - June 1, 2022
TAYLOR DAVISON / VALLEY JOURNAL
The grant funds will help librarian Amy Miller, pictured above, update the nonfiction section and improve coverage of modern technology.
Another difficulty the library has faced is their lack of books about modern technology. Miller said they have several books about vehicles, but lack information about things like drones, clean energy and computer science. “This grant money will go a long way towards helping us refresh that section and bring in newer books that are appealing to the kids to get them excited about STEM-related topics, but also to cover STEM from diverse perspectives,” Miller explained. Some of the funds have also been earmarked to put together a good collection of culture and language resources for all of Montana’s federally recognized tribes, Miller said. While the school’s budget does have some
funds allocated specifically for Native American education, Miller said there are a lot of quality tribal publications they could use that are a little more costly. These funds will help her purchase those resources. Overall, Miller said there is always some section in the library in need of help. “The budget is never quite enough to do everything you could do in the library. There’s always going to be a section that’ll get neglected while you focus on developing something else,” Miller explained. While this infusion of grant funds will be a great help, the library is also always open to accepting donations of books from the community. Miller, for her part, already has a list of titles ready for Valley Journal
purchase with the grant money, which has to be spent by December of this year. “I’m really excited to get started,” she laughed.
Anyone interested in donating to the school library and help expand student education can reach out to Ronan Middle School at 406-676-3390.
Carroll College celebrates 112th Commencement News from Carroll College
HELENA — On Saturday, May 14, 2022, Carroll College in Helena conferred degrees on 228 graduates including both baccalaureate and masters degree recipients, as well as Carroll’s first cohort of Accelerated Nursing students, during its 112th commencement ceremony held in Nelson Stadium. Lake County local Hope M. Unger of Polson graduated with a degree in Psychology/Sociology: Criminology.
Montana poets embrace Native culture in new graphic novel News from Montana Free Press
HELENA — For the past decade, comic books and graphic novels have grown in popularity, with Hollywood movies and TV series adaptations — especially from Marvel — finding critical acclaim. Last year, the graphic novel industry posted $24 million in sales, an increase of 171% over 2020. But the increase in titles and revenue is maybe less interesting than a shift in content. While Japanese graphic novels have been popular for decades, a new wave of comic stories from around the world, focused on a variety of cultures — India, Australia, all across South America — are coming out of small and medium-sized publishing houses. That environment has given a new Native American-centered, young-adult graphic novel called “Thunderous,” by two Montana writers, an opportunity to reach a wider audience. “Thunderous” is about a Lakota teenager from South Dakota who yearns to fit in. The main character, Aiyana, worries that what makes her different — her Lakota heritage and connection to her previous home on a reservation — are what she needs to hide. And despite loving her family, she pushes them away to seek acceptance among her classmates. Not long into the story, Aiyana is transported into a world of talking animals and a special quest that will transform her. The characters, themes and lessons of the story are rooted in Lakota
The cover of Thunderous by Helena-based poets M.L. Smoker and Natalie Peeterse.
storytelling, and while Aiyana is not a hero with superpowers in the Marvel sense, her journey has a classic hero’s-origin-story flavor. “It’s a story about a really reluctant hero,” says “Thunderous” co-author M.L. Smoker. “She’s got to figure things out for herself to be the hero of her own story and to really begin to think about others.” Smoker and her co-author, Natalie Peeterse, are both Helena-based poets. Smok-
er is a member of the Sioux and Assiniboine tribes, has published a poetry collection called “Another Attempt at Rescue,” formerly worked in the Indian Education Division of the state Office of Public Instruction, and currently works as the Indian Education Practice Expert for Portland-based Education Northwest. Between 2019 and 2021, she shared the role of Montana Poet Laureate with Melissa Kwasny. Peeterse, who co-runs Open Valley Journal
Country Press, a Montana literary publishing company, has published two collections: “Black Birds: Blue Horse, An Elegy” and “Dreadful: Luminosity, Letters.” Neither had written a comic-style story before. Early last year, a media group called Curiosity Ink Media, which partnered with the independent comic publishing company Dynamite to produce original stories with diverse perspectives, approached a Lakota friend of
COURTESY PHOTO
Smoker’s. They wanted him to create a young adult story with Indigenous characters. He already had several projects on his plate, so he asked Smoker if she wanted to take it on. Smoker says the companies didn’t have any particular ideas for the story, they just knew they wanted to support a Native project. “It was a big deal,” Smoker says, “because less than 1% of children’s literature is by or about American Indians,
see page 36
June 1, 2022 - 17
Arlee High School graduates 22 seniors Story and photos By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal
ARLEE — On Sunday afternoon, led by a performance of ‘The Honor Song’ with singing and drums, 22 Arlee High School students walked across the stage to receive their diplomas and enter into the adult world. Superintendent Mike Perry spoke to students about the rewards to be gained from life’s challenges. “I hope each of you realize the sweetness after the difficulties,” he said. AHS history and government teacher Grant Alberty praised graduates for their hard work and encouraged them to remember where they come from. “Arlee helps each other,” he said.
18 - June 1, 2022
Seniors also participated in a Rose Ceremony, handing out roses in the audience to those who had helped them to get where they are, before it was time to cross the stage. Led by valedictorian Noel Johnson and salutatorian McKirah Fisher, Arlee students receiving their high school degree included Alexia Asay, Damyen Coates, Emma Corcoran, Madison Daniel, Kyle Finley, McKirah Fisher, Levi Fullerton, Kiya Ironshell, Noel Johnson, Robert Knoll, Titanya Lapahie, Natallyia Martin, Shaylene McDonald, Cheyenne Pablo-Wall, Joseph Parisian, Deon Red Cloud, Michael and Ryann Shourds, Levi Sween, Karleena Tallerico, Tyrel Thomas, and Clarence Wright.
Valley Journal
The offices of
Clinton J. Fischer Law have relocated to
213 1st Street West, Polson, above Valley Bank. Attorneys Clinton J. Fischer and Casey Emerson will continue to offer the same high standard of legal service, and look forward to welcoming their clients at this new location.
(406) 883-4395 Valley Journal
June 1, 2022 - 19
Ronan High School holds ceremonies for graduates Story and photos by Rob Zolman / Valley Journal
RONAN — Ronan High School honored the class of 2022 with an outdoor commencement ceremony on Sunday. The ceremony was opened with an honor song by Bigcrane Drum, and the members of the RHS choir performed the national anthem. Salutatorian Kambrie Rubel and co-valedictorians Aaliyah Decker and Lexie Gauthier each expressed gratitude to their family, friends, and teachers for helping them through their educational journey. Guest speaker and
20 - June 1, 2022
Ronan AD Mitchell Wassam gave the commencement speech and encouraged the graduates with his wit and charm. The ceremony also featured music performances from the RHS Choir and concert band. This year’s “Big G” award went to Brady Dresden. The award has gone to one student every year since 1985 for overcoming obstacles and making it to graduation. The Ronan Class of 2022: Larenz B. Alvarez, Matthew T. Beh, Christien Birdsbill Wippert, Bailey D. Blixt, Donavin K. Brown, XwAXwAA’ A Camel, Nicklaus E. Carmichael, Angelys R.
Carson, Payton L. Cates, Olivia R. Clairmont, Danielle R. Coffman, Sage L. Coffman, LaReina M. Cordova Linzie L. Couture, Mackenzie M. Couture, Ruben A. Couture, Robbie R. Daley, Aaliyah N. Decker, Jacob D. Drake, Brady J. Dresden, Nicholas M. Dresden, Megan C. Evelo, Cheyenne M. Farrow, Lexie E. Gauthier, Azariah M. Godwin, Liliana M. Graves, Cadince L.A. Gray, Scout S. Jensen, Isabela T.R. Larios, Emily D. Learn, Rylie M. Lindquist, Amaya L. Lozeau, Kylin C. Medicine Bull, Alyssa J. Mock, Cole
C. Moran, Maxamus R. Morency, Kaden B. Muhammad, James A. Nielsen, Kylee L.A. Niemeyer, Allissia R. North Piegan, John L.P. Paca, Garrett D. Plouffe, Dillion Pretty On Top, Layla A. Pretty On Top, Lainey R. Racine, Jasen M.P. Rodda, Hannah E. Rowe, Kambrie N. Rubel, Michael L. Running Rabbit, Dylan D. Sevier, Kiara A. Sherman, Kyyen L. Shigley, Zoe M. Stack, Julian J.J. Strait, Adriana P. Tatukivei, Juliana J.L. Vizzerra, Haylie M. Webster, Jamison C. Webster, Ashlie L. Welker, and Whisper S.M. Wieting.
Valley Journal
Charlo celebrating the class of 2022 Story and photos by Rob Zolman / Valley Journal
CHARLO — Charlo High School held their 2022 graduation commencement on Sunday afternoon in the school’s gymnasium. This year, Kassidi Cox welcomed the graduating class and crowd of well-wishers. Valedictorian Guinevere Contreras and salutatorian Coyle Nagy delivered messages of encouragement and
22 - June 1, 2022
inspiration, while Charlo Viking coach and science teacher Reece Cox gave the commencement address. The 2022 graduates included: Noah Anderson, Anthony Castro, Guinevere Contreras, Kassidi Cox, Colt Hovet, Ethan Morrison, Coyle Nagy, William Phillips, George Ranney, Mona Reich, Jessica Shenyer, Molly Kate Sullivan, Brandi Thompson, Kyla Tomlin, Katelyn Young, and Braydon Zempel.
Valley Journal
Valley Journal
June 1, 2022 - 21
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Valley Journal
June 1, 2022 - 23
PUZZLES LOS ANGELES TIMES SUNDAY CROSSWORD PUZZLE
“Day Trading” By David Alfred Bywaters
ACROSS 1 5 10 15 19 20 21 22 23 25 27 28 30 31 32 33 36 38 40 42 45 48 51 53 54 57 59 60 62 63 64 67 70 71 73 74
Prepare for parking or driving Stared open-mouthed Liabilities Did laps Mountain goat Not out of contention yet Word for a lei-person? “Hmm ... I doubt that” First the chardonnay, then the merlot, then the cabernet? Invisible walls? Be there for Sandler of “Uncut Gems” Brewpub pour Ran across Mystical gathering Felt hats Has a good cry Vocal quality Land Imitate a horse Place for a deep-tissue massage Hands out cards Unwrapped with enthusiasm Land parcel Inept caner’s resource? Meteorology lectures? Voting no Fleet parts Have followers British co. Fair shelters Cookbook offering WSJ headline topic Watches on Hulu, say Like farmers’ market veggies River through Reno
79 80 82 83 86 88 90 91 95 98 99 101 102 103 105 107 109 111 114 118 120 122 123 124 128 130 131 132 133 134 135 136 137
__ and vigor Intervene Quick post office run, say Subj. for a non-native speaker Ear-related “Time is money” or “money is power” Greek Cupid Bungalow owner’s challenge to a roofer? Makes doubly sure everyone’s in on the joke? World Baseball Classic team Came off as Chopper blade Org. followed by “puckheads” Outkast hit single Touch-screen gestures Puts into words CrossFit sets Embassy employee Snap, crackle, and pop Sashimi choice Ticket remnant Revived villain in Domino’s ads, with “the” Food critic Hines whose name is on cake mixes Appreciative sound from the alumni luxury box? Water cooler? Midrange voice Wide-awake Chocolate source Region Cheers Lasagna staple Part of a protected URL Office surface
DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 26 29 34 35 37 39 41 43 44 45 46 47 49 50 52 55
Fillable flatbreads Taper off Roman goddess of the hearth Range Person who makes beds? European mountain Rice dish Get around “Gracias” response Beaver creation Pharmaceutical giant __ Lilly 2019 film starring Charlize Theron as Megyn Kelly “Good News” rapper Megan __ Stallion BOGO events Dim __ Amusingly capricious Upfront stake More than half Provide privacy protection, in a way Remove wrinkles from Slip some skin Laugh-a-minute sort Taj Mahal site “The Martian” actor Sean Has for lunch “Here!” Determination Do the impossible with cats, proverbially DNA lab items Wine grape One in a cast Cowardly Lion portrayer Pitches to customers Term with a check mark on an airport sign Beach toy for a windy day
QUICKSILVER EXPRESSO TAKE A BREAK!
51999 US 93 • PABLO 24 - June 1, 2022
56 58 61 65 66 68 69 72 75 76 77 78 81 83 84 85 87 89 92 93 94 96 97 100 104 106 108 110 112 113 115 116 117 118 119 121 125 126 127 129
Florida theme park with a geodesic dome Poorly ventilated theatre phenomenon Command to an attack dog Utter chaos Metalworkers Green-skinned tropical fruit Cure-all mixture Wallops, quaintly All hands on deck “Pieces of Her” novelist Slaughter “How to Get Away With Murder” actor Alfred __ Unsuccessful Ford model Spanish boy Mark for good Actress Elisabeth Maze Pills for pets, often NYSE, NASDAQ, etc. Diggs of “Empire” “There’s no one else” Labor Day mo. Scoundrels Experiment with Academic VIP Cathedral alcove Single-malt pour Storied sailor Backpack holder Drum kit cymbals Official mandate Induce fear in Makes less harsh Be sly Way off Polynesian dance Golden St. campus Haircuts Fine print, e.g. Sch. group Flo Milli’s music genre
©2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis
CRYPTO-QUOTE
One letter stands in for another. Single letters, apostrophes, word length and formation of the words are all hints. Each week the key is different.
VKISQGA TX PAQS ZKUCTMG KM Q RTMIJA UKMGAS. - GAKSGA X. WQJJKM Ben Stone / Valley Journal
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Monday- Friday 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.
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Come in for: • Soup & Sandwiches • Coffee Bar • Free Wi-Fi • Ice Cream • Car Wash & Vacuum • Laundromat • ATM • Flathead Transit/ Jefferson Line connect
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WEEKLY HOROSCOPE
By: Magi Helena for the Week of May 29, 2022
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Find additional benefits as you travel your career path. In the week ahead, you might enjoy improved working conditions or work on a special project that gives you lasting comfort. Follow the rules to keep a partner happy.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Stay on track. Someone may try to guilt you into ignoring your own insightful ideas. Don’t let anyone or anything divert your attention from working toward accomplishing your ambitions in the upcoming week.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You might feel that someone is blowing off your concerns or taking you for granted. Rather than brooding over these things, support your own well-being. Focus on uplifting your spiritual practice as the week unfolds.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Make headway with your ideas as this week unfolds. Take steps to insure you are known as someone who is persistent, follows through on promises and gets the job done. Remain crystal clear about your expectations.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Help yourself with one hand and help others with the other one. Whenever you grow overly ambitious, remember you are part of a team. This week you may be called upon to help a coworker or sort out a compromise.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): You could underestimate your abilities in the week ahead. Having a strong partner may bring mixed blessings if you let yourself feel less competent by comparison. Focus on ways to make money and fulfill existing commitments.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Stick to your convictions even when someone else tries to stick holes in them. In the week to come, let other people know where you stand. Avoid offering advice on any subjects outside your sphere of experience.
SUDOKU
ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may be tempted to compromise your values in the week to come. When challenged to negotiate favorable terms, you avoid doing anything in the heat of the moment that goes against your integrity.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Family needs may come first but ambitions are not far behind. Your job or a project may take up more time than usual in the week ahead. A partner can inspire you to work harder to attain material success. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You might be riveted on what makes things tick and how you can use self-knowledge to get ahead. The goals on your mind are entirely achievable this week because there should be plenty of people eager to help. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): If plagued by uncertainty, focus on trusting yourself. It may be impossible to achieve perfection in the week ahead, but you can do your best. Face up to obligations and perform necessary tasks. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): One step at a time. Your imagination may be unleashed, so you might think there are no limits to what you can accomplish in the week ahead. Someone could be ready to remind you to take baby steps first.
COMICS
©2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
©2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC.
Valley Journal
Answers in Classifieds June 1, 2022 - 25
sports
MAC runner up in Class B/C State softball finals By Rob Zolman Valley Journal
LEWISTOWN — Second verse, same as the first. For the second consecutive year, the Florence-Carlton Lady Falcons derailed the Mission-Arlee-Charlo (MAC) Lady Bulldogs’ hopes of bringing home a state championship trophy with a 14-11 victory during Saturday’s Class B/C state championship game hosted at the D’Autremont Complex in Lewistown. In the opening round of the tournament on Thursday, an eight run third inning by MAC bats helped the Lady Bulldogs push past the Conrad-Choteau Cowgirls 10-6. Jerny Crawford led MAC at the plate, going 2-for-4 with a triple, a bases loaded grand slam home run and four RBIs. On Friday morning, MAC came away with a narrow 9-7 win over the Shepherd Fillies. Picking up the win, Izzy Evans went the distance for MAC in the circle, allowing seven runs on 11 hits and striking out five. Helping out her own cause at the plate, Evans hit a home run and picked up three RBIs on the day. 26 - June 1, 2022
The win set up a late Friday afternoon semifinal showdown with archnemesis Florence-Carlton Lady Falcons. After playing three innings, MAC led 8-5. However, a seven run fourth inning by the Lady Falcons put the game out of reach. Looking to keep their championship hopes
alive in the loser’s out bracket Saturday morning, MAC faced and defeated Shepherd by a score of 9-4. Rheid Crawford, Jerny Crawford, and Evans all had home runs in the game. Evans held the Fillies to just four runs on four hits, while walking none and striking out six.
In the championship game Saturday afternoon, MAC faced Florence for the second time in the tournament and fifth time overall this season. Knotted up 5-5 after three and a half innings, the Lady Falcons scored three runs in the fourth inning and four runs in the fifth to claim their second consecutive state
championship. At the plate four MAC, Evans went yard twice in the game followed by Rheid Crawford and Hayleigh Smith who both had a home run each. MAC wrapped up their season with a Class B/C State runner-up trophy and an overall season record of 26-6.
Mission-Arlee-Charlo Lady Bulldogs Class B/C State softball runner ups
Valley Journal
In their recorded six losses, early in the season MAC fell 11-5 to the subsequent Class A State Champion Frenchtown Lady Broncs, and five times to Florence-Carlton. In those five meetings, the MAC and Lady Falcons bats combined for a grand total of 105 runs.
COURTESY PHOTO JENNIFER REUM
Lady Pirates take third at state By Rob Zolman Valley Journal
HAMILTON — On Thursday in first-round action of the State Class A Girls Softball Championship hosted in Hamilton, both the Polson Lady Pirates and Ronan Maidens opened the three-day double elimination tournament with a loss. The Maidens fell 9-3 to the Corvallis Lady Blue Devils, while the Butte Central Lady Maroons scored an extra inning 4-3 upset win over defending state champion Lady Pirates.
In loser-out bracket action on Friday morning, the Laurel Locomotives steamed past the Maidens 10-0, while the Lady Pirates kept their post-season ship afloat with a 13-1 victory over the Fergus Lady Golden Eagles. Lady Pirate pitcher Katelyne Druyvestein picked up the post-season win in the circle allowing one run on three hits, striking out 11, and walking none. Polson finished Friday’s bracket action with an 11-1 win over Corvallis and a 12-4 victory over the Havre
ROB ZOLMAN / VALLEY JOURNAL
Kiara Sherman
Lady Blue Ponies. In the Havre win, Druyvestein struck out 13, walked zero, and at the plate hit a homerun. Carli Maley also booked a homerun for the Lady Pirates. The Lady Pirates in the loser-takes-fourth game on Saturday morning avenged two regular-season conference losses to Columbia Falls with a 7-2 win over the Wildkats. The Lady Pirates finished the state tourney in third place Saturday afternoon in a narrow 5-4 loss to the eventual state champions, the Frenchtown Lady Broncs.
Nikki Kendall
ROB ZOLMAN / VALLEY JOURNAL
Katelyne Druyvestein
Valley Journal
ROB ZOLMAN / VALLEY JOURNAL
ROB ZOLMAN / VALLEY JOURNAL
Hailee Webster
June 1, 2022 - 27
Valley tracksters finish season strong By Rob Zolman Valley Journal
The Mission Valley produced several individual medalists during both the 2022 MHSA Class B/C Track and Field Championships hosted in Great Falls and the Class A Track and Field Championships hosted in Butte on Friday and Saturday. Ronan Chiefs’ senior Payton Cates captured the top podium spot in the high jump with a jump of six feet, two inches. Cates also placed sixth in the triple jump. Also for the Chiefs, Rueben Couture finished in fifth place in the 300-meter hurdles posting a time of 42.17 seconds. Ronan Maiden Olivia Heiner picked up two top five state finishes, placing fourth in the
1600 and fifth place in the 800. Kylie Fetui in the javelin and Leina Ulutoa in the triple jump both placed eighth for the Maidens. Polson Lady Pirate Ashtyn Wagner picked up a pair of top ten state finishes by placing ninth in the 1600 and tenth in the 800, while teammate Halle Heninger finished sixth in the 3200 and placed twelfth in the 1600. Also for the Lady Pirates, Taleah Hernandez place fourth in the pole vault with a vault of nine feet, six inches, and Hannah Simpson in the 400 meters finished sixteenth. Finally, Polson Pirate junior Drifter Skillicorn nabbed a twelfth-place finish in the long jump. Mission Bulldog Bryce Umphrey finished third in the long
jump with a mark of 21-01.50, followed by fellow Bulldog Charles Adams in fifteenth place. Umphrey also posted a ninth place finish in the triple jump. Umphrey wasn’t the only Bulldog to pick up state hardware. Andrew Rush finished fifth in the 1600, tenth in the 3200, and fourteenth in the 800. Rounding out the top twenty state finishers for Mission, Canyon Sargent finished seventh in the shot put, Kellen McClure placed twelfth in the javelin, and Zoran LaFrombois finished fifteenth in the 3200. Arlee’s Charley Crawford was the top Warrior finisher during the state meet, finishing in sixteenth place in the javelin. After placing sixth in the shot put at the di-
visional meet last weekend and battling back from a complete ACL tear back in October, Shonlea Matt, the lone Arlee Scarlett to make the road trip to state this season, placed twentieth in the shot put preliminaries. In Class C, Charlo Vikings and Lady Vikings placed several athletes in the top twenty. Tucker Love took fourth in the javelin, recording a mark of 157 feet, six inches. Hayden Smith finished fifth in the 3200 with a time of 10:28.17 and eighth in the 1600, while Keaton Piedalue finished eleventh in the 400 meters, and Hayden Hollow placed seventh in the 800. For the Lady Vikings, Kyla Tomlin tied for tenth in the pole vault and finished fourteenth in both the shot put and javelin.
Lady Pirates co-runner ups BOZEMAN — With 20 team points, the Polson Lady Pirates tied with Hamilton for second place during the State A tennis tournament hosted in Bozeman on Thursday and Friday. Billings Central won the girls’ title with 26 team points. In doubles action, Camilla Foresti and Katie Smith defeated Ronan Maidens Aaliyah Decker and Alyssa Pretty On Top for third place, while Clara Todd finished third with a win over Bryn Coffin of Miles City. For the Pirates, Torrin Ellis prevailed over Ronan Chief Beau Decker in consolation for fifth place.
COURTESY PHOTO DONNA HISLOP
Polson Lady Pirates State Class A girls tennis runner ups
Buffalo Run 2022
Sponsored by St. Luke Community Healthcare Registration and information at: www.stlukehealthcare.org Proceeds benefit the St. Ignatius Chamber of Commerce
Saturday, July 16th
1/2 marathon, 1 mile fun run and 4 & 7 mile runs 28 - June 1, 2022
Valley Journal
Congratulations! Tennis
Track & Field continued
Polson • Ashtyn Wagner • Class A State Girls 800 • Tenth Place Polson • Halle Heninger • Class A State Girls 3200 • Sixth Place Polson • Taleah Hernandez • Class A State Girls Pole Vault • Fourth Place
Mission • Madyson Currie and Ahni Umphrey • Class B-C State Girls Doubles • Fourth Place Polson Lady Pirates • Class A State Girls Team • Second Place Polson • Camilla Foresti and Katie Smith • Class A State Girls Doubles • Third Place Polson • Clara Todd • Class A State Girls Singles • Third Place Polson • Torrin Ellis • Class A State Boys Singles • Fifth Place Ronan • Aaliyah Decker and Alyssa Pretty On Top • Class A State Girls Doubles • Fourth Place Ronan • Beau Decker • Class A State Boys Singles • Sixth Place
Mission • Bryce Umphrey • Class B State Boys Long Jump • Third Place Mission • Bryce Umphrey • Class B State Boys Triple Jump • ninth Place Mission • Andrew Rush • Class B State Boys 1600 • Fifth Place Mission • Andrew Rush • Class B State Boys 3200 • Tenth Place Mission • Canyon Sargent • Class B State Boys Shot Put • Seventh Place
Track & Field
Charlo • Tucker Love • Class C State Boys Javelin • Fourth Place Charlo • Hayden Smith • Class C State Boys 3200 • Fifth Place Charlo • Hayden Smith • Class C State Boys 1600 • Eighth Place Charlo • Hayden Hollow • Class C State Boys 800 • Seventh Place Charlo • Kyla Tomlin • Class C State Girls Pole Vault • Tenth Place
Ronan • Payton Cates • Class A State Boys High Jump • State Champion Ronan • Payton Cates • Class A State Boys Triple Jump • Sixth Place Ronan • Rueben Couture • Class A State Boys 300m Hurdles • Fifth Place Ronan • Olivia Heiner • Class A State Girls 1600 • Fourth Place Ronan • Olivia Heiner • Class A State Girls 800 • Fifth Place Ronan • Kylie Fetui • Class A State Girls Javelin• Eighth Place Ronan • Leina Ulutoa • Class A State Girls Triple Jump • Eighth Place
Softball Mission-Arlee-Charlo Lady Bulldogs • Class B-C State • Second Place Polson Lady Pirates • Class A State • Third Place
Polson • Ashtyn Wagner • Class A State Girls 1600 • Ninth Place
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We are proud of you! Valley Journal
June 1, 2022 - 29
Montana’s strong jobs recovery breaking records Inflation continues to take toll on Montana families
News from the office of the Governor, Dept. of Labor & Industry
HELENA — Key employment indicators remained strong in Montana in April, with the state’s unemployment rate remaining at a record low and the state’s labor force and total employment reaching record highs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Montana’s record-breaking jobs
recovery and economic comeback are strong thanks to hardworking Montanans,” Governor Greg Gianforte said. “Our continued focus on cutting taxes, rolling back red tape, and attracting and training workers in critical industries like health care, construction, and manufacturing is key to fueling future job creation, growth, and prosperity.” Montana’s unemployment rate in April remained at a record-low 2.3%, the fifth lowest in the nation, beating the national rate of 3.6%. More than 28,000
jobs have been created in Montana since November 2020. Montana’s total employment is at its highest level ever recorded with 547,573 Montanans working and with 2,232 additional employed workers over March. In April, Montana’s labor force reached another record high at 560,706, with roughly 2,268 new workers entering the state’s labor force. Despite another positive jobs report, inflation continues to take a heavy toll on Montana families, with Montanans facing a nearly 13
percent increase in prices from January 2021 to April 2022, one of the highest rates in the nation. Montana households are paying an average of $652 more per month due to inflation, including $66 more in food costs, $107 more in shelter costs, $290 more in transportation costs, and $166 more in energy costs. On an annualized basis, Montanans are facing cost increases of more than $7,800 per year due to inflation, according to the U.S. Congress Joint Economic Committee.
County Unemployment Rates: The unemployment rate and ranking for local Montana’s counties is provided below. County unemployment rates and employment levels are not seasonally adjusted and should be compared to the unadjusted statewide unemployment rate of 2.7%. Unemployment Rate Employment
Rank
County
Current Unemployment Rate
Change over Year
Current Employment
Job Change from Last Year
28 Missoula 2.6 -1 65,346 2,991 37 Lake 2.9 -1.2 13,924 768 46 Flathead 3.3 -1.1 49,666 1,696 51 Sanders 4.3 -0.9 5,150 246 Reservation Unemployment Rates: The unemployment rate and ranking for the Flathead Reservation is provided below. Reservation unemployment rates and employment levels are not seasonally adjusted and should be compared to the unadjusted statewide unemployment rate of 2.7%. Reservation areas overlap with county areas, meaning that unemployed individuals living on a reservation will be included in both the reservation and county totals. Rank
1
Area
Flathead
30 - June 1, 2022
Unemployment Rate Current UnemChange ployment Rate over Year 3.1
-1.2
Employment Current Em- Job Change ployment from Last Year 13,651
Valley Journal
742
Cheerful Heart Cancer Support Group restarts meetings News from Cheerful Hearts
POLSON — The Cheerful Heart Cancer Support Group is for anyone affected by cancer. The group will meet from noon-1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 8, in the Chapel at St. Joseph Medical Center. Rev. John Payne will lead the group, which is meeting for the first time since March 2020. The group welcomes those recently diagnosed, those undergoing treatment, cancer survivors, and/or family members. The group aims is to provide a safe place for members to share, learn, support, and encourage members after a cancer diagnosis; and, to conquer the fear in themselves and others. Confidentiality is practiced, anything spoken in group stays with the group. Gatherings are informal allowing folks to drop-in when schedules and life permits. Brown-bag lunches are welcome. The support group originated in 2009 and met regularly for 11 years before the pandemic hiatus. The group will meet on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. Questions about the group can be directed to Valerie at 406-261-3304. Cheerful Heart, an organization of volunteers that has provided non-medical services to cancer patients in Lake County since 2002, sponsors the support group. Cheerful Heart does not charge for the services that it provides. For general questions about Cheerful Heart call 406-883-3070 or email: cheerfulheart@centurytel.net.
USDA to be flexibile News from USDA
MONTANA — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will allow Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) participants who are in the final year of their CRP contract to request voluntary termination of their CRP contract following the end of the primary nesting season for fiscal year 2022. Participants approved for this one-time, voluntary
termination will not have to repay rental payments, a flexibility implemented this year to help mitigate the global food supply challenges caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and other factors. Today, USDA also announced additional flexibilities for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) and Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP).
seniors Dixon By Heather Rush for the Valley Journal
DIXON — The Dixon Senior Center continues to serve our community and hopes everyone is staying happy and healthy. All are invited to come enjoy dinner. Meals will be served Monday and Thursday evenings at 5 p.m. Meals are $4 per serving and are deliverable to Dixon residents upon request. We are also accepting take-out meal requests for $5 per serving. The menu for the coming week is: — Thursday, June 2: chicken Alfredo, broccoli, Rolls, dessert — Monday, June 6: lasagna, salad, rolls, dessert — Thursday, June 9:
TO K
NO W
7 out of
pork, pasta, vegetable, rolls, dessert Pinochle is back. The Dixon Senior Center hosts pinochle every fourth Monday of the month from 7-9 p.m. Next game is scheduled for Monday, June 27. Feel welcome to place an order in advance by calling 406-246-3310. All ages are always welcome.
Polson By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal
POLSON — Call the Polson Senior Center at 406-883-4735, email us at: polsonseniorcenter@ gmail.com or visit us at 504 Third Ave. E. We are open from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. on weekdays. Lunch is available from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. week“. . . though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”
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tate players. Bingo: Fridays, 7 p.m. Lots of fun, cash prizes, snacks. Plenty of seating. Hearing Clinic: Every third Thursday ( June 16) from 10 a.m.-noon Veteran’s Rep: The first Friday of each month ( June 3) and third Tuesday of each month ( June 21) from 10 a.m.-noon Pool: We are scheduling felt recovery and a new cushion rubber. Call for information. MENU (subject to change); in-house or take-out: $Wednesday, June 1: Spaghetti, garlic bread, corn, grape salad, chocolate cake — Thursday, June 2: chicken thighs w/ sweet, sour sauce, rice, green beans, aspic salad, banana pudding — Friday, June 3: biscuit, gravy, sausage links,
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days. We deliver meals to shut-ins. Fresh paint, window shades, lighting upgrade, wood floor refinishing, are all in progress at the center. Due to high demand, we are adding a fourth route for noon meal deliveries. Drivers are wanted for 1.5 hours per day to deliver to 12-14 homes on a route from 11 a.m.12:30 p.m. Routes are 10 miles or less. Limited fuel reimbursement available. Exercise for Mobility: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 10:30– 11:30 a.m. Bridge: Tuesdays, Fridays: Coming soon sign up at the center. Mahjong: Wednesday, 12:30 p.m. (multiple tables) Pinochle: Thursday, 12:30–3 p.m. (earlier or later if you wish).We ro-
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To learn more join us at Lake City Baptist Church • 38907 MT HWY 35 406-465-8564 • Sunday service at 10:30 a.m.
carrots sauerkraut salad, brownie — Monday, June 6: chili/mac, French bread, green salad, cookie Tuesday, June 7: chicken Alfredo, spiced apples, mixed veggies copper penny salad, chocolate pudding — Wednesday, June 8: French dip w/au jus, pickled beets, pasta salad, Watergate salad — Thursday, June 9: chef salad, rhubarb muffin, cranberry salad, pudding
St. Ignatius By Irene Pritsak for the Valley Journal
ST. IGNATIUS — The St. Ignatius Senior Center hopes your Memorial Day Celebrations were heartfelt and safe. We are now starting the
summer season with its good weather, summer storms, harvests and outdoor fun. Our menu for the week: — Wednesday, June 1: dinner at 5:30 p.m.: teriyaki chicken, rice, veggies, fruit, cherry bars — Friday, June 3: cabbage skillet hot dish with beef, sweet potato and regular fries, fruit, pumpkin bars — Tuesday, June 7: “beef taco Tuesday” - lettuce, tomato and other veggies, fruit, oatmeal cookies Lunch is served at noon and dinner is served at 5:30 p.m. All are welcome. Also, please note: home deliveries are for lunches only. You are welcome to order a dinner before 2 PM, and please plan on picking it up around 5:30. Enjoy your week.
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June 1, 2022 - 31
obituaries Paul Soukup PIERRE, SD — Paul Francis Soukup was born in Wagner, SD, on Dec. 8, 1960, the son of Frank and Marla (Payer) Soukup. He died unexpectedly on Saturday, May 21, 2022, at St. Mary’s Hospital Paul in Pierre, Soukup SD. Paul graduated from O’Gorman High School in Sioux Falls, SD, in 1979 and earned his BA in Accounting from Briar Cliff in Sioux City, Iowa. Paul married Mary Kelly in 1988. Four children were born to their union. Paul worked as the CFO at the hospitals in Armour and Platte, SD, and has worked as the CFO at St. Luke’s Hospital in Ronan
since August of 2005. He also served on the Finance Committee for the Montana Hospital Association. Paul will be remembered for his love of hunting, fishing, nature, the mountains of Montana. Paul loved running and ran in many marathons. He loved his family very much. Paul was a free spirit who did it his way. Survivors include his four children: April (Andrew) Buller of Aberdeen, SD, Maura (Austin) Cole of Emmetsburg, Iowa, Donald Soukup of Mitchell, SD, and Shalaki Soukup of Emmetsburg, Iowa; two grandchildren: Caitlin and Todd Cole; his mother, Marla Soukup of Wagner, SD; siblings: Mark (Kim) Soukup of Wagner, SD, Colin (Dawn) Soukup of Wagner, SD, Chris (Mary) Soukup of Sioux Falls, SD, Sharon Wiebenga of Tyndall, SD, and Lynn (Kim) Soukup of Wagner, SD;
and significant other, Kim McMillie of Polson. Paul was preceded in death by his father Frank and his grandparents. Services have been held. Peters Funeral Home in Wagner, SD is in charge of arrangements.
Dan Mix POLSON — Dan Mix passed away Nov. 16, 2021. A Celebration of Life for Dan will be held on June 11, 2022, at Boettcher Park, shelter no. 1. The family will be doing a poker run/memorial drive around the lake with registration for that beginning at 9:30 a.m. and we will leave the park at 10:30 a.m. The memorial services will begin at 1 p.m. and a potluck will be held at 1:30 p.m. Please bring your own chairs and something for the potluck, if you can. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Fu-
neral Home.
Doris Bradshaw ST. IGNATIUS — Doris Smith Bradshaw, 90, passed away on May 17, 2022 at The Pines of Mission assisted living facility in St. Ignatius. She was born on June 18, 1931, in Beaver, Utah, to LeRoy Smith and Velva A. Wilson. She grew up in Beaver, where she later met and married Vernile (Vern) Bradshaw on Dec. 10, 1949. They were later sealed for time and all eternity on Oct. 24, 1968, in the Cardston, Alberta, temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Doris was a talented seamstress who could sew just about anything. She worked sewing commercial draperies for many years before she transitioned to being self-employed, sew-
Boaters can help protect MT from AIS 9,800 watercraft inspected so far this year News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks
HELENA — All aquatic invasive species inspection stations are now open on major routes of travel in the state. As boaters venture out to our rivers and lakes, please keep in mind the rules aimed at protecting our waters and preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. Be sure to always clean, drain and 32 - June 1, 2022
dry your boat. All boats must stop at all open watercraft inspection stations they encounter. Failure to stop at inspection stations could result in a fine of up to $500. Non-residents transporting watercraft into Montana must purchase a Vessel AIS Prevention Pass before launching. The fee is $30 for motorized and $10 for nonmotorized watercraft. The pass is valid until Dec. 31. Inspection is required before launch If: the boat is entering the state, crossing west over the Continental Divide or entering
ing all manner of bags and soft luggage items, including backpacks, saddle bags, paniers, garment bags, etc. She greatly enjoyed, as she described it, “Playing in the dirt.” She loved to garden and spent countless hours planting and tending her many flower beds. But if you asked her what her true passion was, she would invariably say, “Music. Music is the love of my life.” Doris and her husband Vern operated a family dairy farm in Beaver, Utah, from the time they were married until they moved to Lolo early in 1960 where they purchased a ranch up Lolo Creek. Just a few years later they sold that property and moved again to a new ranch in St. Ignatius in December of 1963. Doris is survived by her four children, Sandra (Ed) Schultz of Tucson, AZ, Lynette (Alan) Mikkelsen of St. Ignatius, Kaylene
the Flathead Basin. More than 9,800 watercraft have been inspected so far this year, 16 of which were mussel-fouled. FWP works closely with other state AIS programs when mussel-fouled boats are destined for other states. When a mussel-fouled boat is intercepted, Montana inspectors typically clean it, lock it to the trailer to prohibit launching and contact the destination state so they can arrange for follow-up and, if needed, a full decontamination when it reaches its destination.
Valley Journal
(Randy) Melton of Ronan and Wayne (Diane) Bradshaw of Eagle Mountain, UT. Doris is also survived by her 11 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and two great great-grandchildren; her brother, Fred Smith and her sister, Jeanne Johnston. Doris is preceded in death by her husband, Vernile Bradshaw; her brother, Ralph Leroy Smith and her granddaughter, Jaci Schultz. Per Doris’s wishes, only a graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 27, at the Pleasant View Cemetery just outside of St. Ignatius where she will be buried next to her husband, Vernile. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www. shriderthompson.com. Arrangements are under the care of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and partner agencies operate more than 25 road-side watercraft inspection stations across the state. Typically, boat inspections are brief and include a short interview and check to make sure watercraft are not transporting mud, water, plants, or invasive organisms. Larger or more complex boats may require additional time for an inspection. To find a watercraft inspection station or to learn more, go to: CleanDrainDryMT.com or call the FWP Aquatic Invasive Species Bureau at 406-444-2440.
Tribal Health welcomes new public health educator News from Tribal Health
ST. IGNATIUS — Introducing Frances Gates, Tribal Health’s new public health educator: Credentials: Bachelors of Science in Health Promotion and Education What are the primary duties of your new position? My primary duties include forming relationships with Tribal Health community stakeholders to improve and expand outreach efforts within the Public Health Division and to meet with community stakeholders to identify community / population educational needs.
Where did you receive your education? I received my education at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, with additional training as a CPR / First Aid Instructor through the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association. I received further training in community health through internships in South Africa in community health, through the CSKT tribes as a Health Assistant as an undergraduate, and by working as an intern with Valley Aids Information Network in Corvallis, Oregon. My professional training in case management was acquired through the State of Oregon in Indian
Child Welfare (ICWA), through the Head Start program, and in School Health through Multnomah Education Service District. What is your prior experience relevant to your new position? My experience includes providing case management support in the Native American community in Portland, Oregon as an ICWA case manager and as a Family Service Provider with a Native American Indian Head Start. I have been a CPR / First Aid Instructor teaching life-saving skills for over 12 years and recently worked in School Health for two years providing first aid
and emergency intervention to children and staff in Portland public schools. Are you a Tribal Member? Yes Where are you from? I grew up in Portland, Oregon during winter months and spent summer months with my Native American Indian grandparents residing in the Flathead Indian reservation. Why did you choose a career in health? I chose a career in public health because I wanted to make a positive impact in my Native American community and felt that improving health outcomes as a medical or nurse provider
would be the best way to accomplish these goals. I became interested in social services and since it was closely linked with Community Health, I felt this would help me serve people best through education, outreach and case management. I enjoy teaching and found public health a perfect fit for my skills and interests with helping people and communities. My primary focus has been to improve health within underserved populations. What are you excited about in your new position? This new position lays groundwork for CSKT Tribal Public Health Education outreach and I
will have an opportunity to participate in this effort. I am looking forward to meeting our tribal community, learning from Tribal Members about their health needs, and learning more about local tribal cultures. I am looking forward to integrating my skills to help families reach their health goals and to improve community health outcomes. What activities and/or hobbies do you pursue in your free time? In my free time I enjoy swimming, spending time with friends and family attending local events, enjoying the lake, attending exercise classes, hiking, reading and crafts.
53RD SEASON – 2022
53 years of Bringing Live Theatre to Northeastern Montana
ONLY FOUR COMPANIES
CONTROL 82% OF THE U.S. BEEF PROCESSING MARKET
SENATOR TESTER IS FIGHTING AG CONSOLIDATION TO DRIVE PRICES DOWN FOR CONSUMERS AND KEEP FAMILY FARMERS IN BUSINESS TESTER'S BILLS WILL: ENFORCE OUR NATION'S ANTI-TRUST LAWS PREVENT ANTI-COMPETITIVE PRACTICES & INTRODUCE PRICE TRANSPARENCY MEASURES
PAID FOR BY THE MONTANA DEMOCRATIC PARTY (WWW.MONTANADEMOCRATS.ORG), PO BOX 802, HELENA, MT, LANCE FOURSTAR, TREASURER. NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE’S COMMITTEE.
d o n’t get
June 3 – July 2
June 10 - July 9
June 17 – July 10
July 15 – July 24
July 29 – Aug. 14
Aug. 18 – Sept. 4
left in the
dark read public notices www.MontanaPublicNotices.com Valley Journal
SHOW TIMES
Fridays and Saturdays 7:30 p.m. – Sundays 4:00 p.m. Some selected Saturday 2:00 pm matinees PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE AT www.fortpecktheatre.org or call 406-228-9216 Ask about a 5-Show Pass June 1, 2022 - 33
calendar Wednesday, June 1 Free meditation class taught via ZOOM ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. Please join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on June 1 and on subsequent Wednesdays, for an online meditation class led by Zen teacher, Zenku, including meditation instruction, practice and discussion via Zoom. The classes will be each Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m. Mountain Time. We will cultivate and deepen our centering skills and meditation practice during the class. Please join us and take advantage of this opportunity. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847721-0665 or email: Jerry. Smyers@gmail.com.
Thursday, June 2 Learn social media marketing for small businesses RONAN — On Thursday, June 2 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mission West Community Development Partners, 407 Main Street SW, will offer a class on essential and effective marketing strategies for business success. In this workshop you’ll learn: Digital Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses; Social media marketing your business; Facebook Marketing; Instagram Marketing; website and search engine optimization and how to building your 34- June 1, 2022
email list and control the contact you have with your customers. A workbook will be included for you in this interactive workshop. Register at: https:// lccdc.ecenterdirect.com/ events/696.
Friday, June 3 Used book sale held at library POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library District’s Friends of the Library are holding a used book sale Friday and Saturday, June 3 and 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The sale features a huge selection of assorted titles, including DVDs and audiobooks, all at bargain prices. Along with books, the Friends will be selling raffle tickets for an Amish quilt as part of their fundraising efforts. The quilt will be on display during the book sale; the winning ticket will be drawn on June 17. The sale and raffle will be held in the large meeting room at the library in Polson, 2 First Ave. E. All proceeds and contributions will go toward the Friends’ support of the library’s many programs and projects that benefit all in the community.
First Friday Acoustic Music held in the library atrium POLSON — June 3rd starting at 3:30 p.m. First Friday Acoustic Music will be held in the North Lake County Public Library’s atrium. Join us for the first program in
see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net this new monthly series. Intentionally scheduled between Friday Farmers’ Market and First Friday downtown shopping and events, this relaxing musical moment in the library will provide a cool respite in summer activities. Local musician Doug Trost will play music in a variety of styles, including jazz and country.
Saturday, June 4 Pancakes served at Big Arm School BIG ARM — The Big Arm Association will host our Spring Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, June 4, at our historic Big Arm School from 8:3011:30 a.m. We will serve pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, juice and coffee. Monetary donations are gratefully accepted. For more information contact 406-849-5064. Thank you in advance.
Shoot hoops in Plains PLAINS — The sixth annual Plains Wildhorse 3-on-3 Shootout will take place on June 4 at Amundson Sports Complex. Registration deadline is May 27 and the entry fee is $120. For more information, call Erica Swanson Lawyer at 406-544-8493.
First Saturday event held at Ninepipes’ Museum CHARLO — Co-founder of Ninepipe’s Museum, Laurel Cheff, will be the featured artist at the June 4 First Saturday event held at the
museum from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with light refreshments will be available. There will be several recent original oil paintings of Mission Mountain scenes and of wildlife, some of which are available to purchase. Raffle tickets for one of her paintings, Glacier Creek, will be sold at the museum starting June 4 and going through July 17. The painting depicts a scene on the south end of Crazy Horse in the Mission Mountains. Tickets prices are three for $10, and seven for $20. The drawing will be held at the event celebrating Bud Cheff Jr. on July 17.
Sunday, June 5 St. Joe’s Golf Scramble held POLSON — The Providence St. Joseph Scramble will be held on Sunday, June 5 at the Polson Bay Golf Club. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the shotgun start is at 10 a.m. This is an 18-hole, four-person scramble. Entry fee is $250 per team and includes golf, golf cart, gift bag, tee prizes and lunch at Bunkers. Contact Cameron Milton at 406-883-8230 or email: polsonbaygolfcourse@ gmail.com to register.
Tuesday, June 7 Back Country Horsemen invite public to meeting RONAN — Mission Valley Back Country Horsemen invites the
Valley Journal
public to our next monthly meeting on June 7 at 7 p.m. at the VFW on Round Butte Rd. Come and see for yourself what this great organization is all about. Hope to see you there.
Talk on Bison Range given POLSON — The Flathead Biological Station at Yellow Bay presents Science on Tap from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Flathead Lakers Office, Salish building outdoor plaza. A presentation by Steph Gillin, CSKT Information and Education Officer with CSKT Natural Resources Department, will discuss the restoration of the Bison Range to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. For more information, call 406-8724509.
Wednesday, June 8 Driftwood sculpting taught POLSON — Artist Melinda Jewett will teach “Driftwood Sculpture” at the Sandpiper Gallery on June 8 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The cost is $25 per session. Kit purchased separately. For more information call 406-883-5956 or go to: sandpiperartgallery.com.
Rural Fire District Board to meet POLSON — The regular monthly meeting of the Polson Rural Fire District Board of Trustees will take place on Wednesday, June 8, at 6 p.m. at the Fairgrounds Station No. 1,
25B Regatta Road.
Cheerful Heart Cancer Support Group meets again POLSON — The Cheerful Heart Cancer Support Group is for anyone affected by cancer. The group will meet from noon-1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 8, in the Chapel at St. Joseph Medical Center. Rev. John Payne will lead the group, which is meeting for the first time since March 2020. The group welcomes those recently diagnosed, those undergoing treatment, cancer survivors, and/or family members. Gatherings are informal allowing folks to drop-in when schedules and life permits. Brown- bag lunches are welcome. Questions about the group can be directed to Valerie 406-261-3304.
MVUMC begins ‘Let’s go to the movies’ program ST. IGNATIUS — The Mission Valley United Methodist Church is offering a movie night and barbeque on Wednesdays this summer. Bring a hot dog or burger to fry on the grill and a salad or dessert to share for supper at 5 p.m. The movie starts at 6 p.m. Bring the family and join us for food, fellowship and a family-based movie. The first movie will be shown on June 8 and the sermon to follow will be on June 12. The movie will become the basis for the following Sunday’s worship service. All are welcome and are guaranteed an enjoyable evening.
Three authors share their craft at library POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library is excited to host three local authors on Saturday, June 11 for a Mystery & Suspense Author’s Panel. Leslie Budewitz, Christine Carbo and Gwen Florio will be in the library’s large meeting room, sharing their knowledge about their craft, reading excerpts from their work, signing and selling their books. This program is free and open to the public. Leslie Budewitz blends her passion for food, great mysteries and the Northwest in two cozy mystery series. She writes the Spice Shop mysteries set in Seattle’s Pike Place Market and Food Lovers’ Village mysteries, set in NW Montana. She also writes stand-alone suspense as Alicia Beckman. A three-time Agatha-Award winner, a past president of Sisters in Crime, and a current board member of Mystery Writers of America, she lives in NW Montana. A practicing lawyer, she’s written a guide for writers, Books, Crooks & Counselors: How to Write Accurately about Criminal Law and Courtroom Procedure, winner of the 2011 Agatha Award for Best Nonfiction, making her the first author to win Agatha Awards for both fiction and nonfiction. Christine Carbo grew up in Gainesville, Florida, then moved to Kalispell when she was twelve. The endeavor of writing has been an amazing journey for Christine. She has come to realized that writing is even more fulfilling when she stays involved with other writers. She is a member of: Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America,
Authors of the Flathead, Pacific Northwest Writers Association, International Thriller Writers, Outdoor Writers Association of America and Montana Women Writers. Christine is a recipient of the Women’s National Book Association Pinckley Prize, the Silver Falchion Award and the High Plains Book Award. Currently, she and her family live in Whitefish. When Christine’s not teaching Pilates or writing suspense, she’s enjoying all that living in Northwest Montana has to offer. Gwen Florio majored in English at the University of Delaware. A decades-long career followed, taking her around the United States and to more than a dozen countries, including several conflict zones. Her first novel, Montana, won the inaugural Pinckley Prize for Crime Fiction and a High Plains Book Award. The fifth in the series, Under the Shadows (Midnight Ink Books) was released in March 2018. Her first literary novel, Silent Hearts (Atria) was released in July 2018. Best Laid Plans, the first book in a new series from Severn House, launched in December 2020. For questions or more information, go to our website: northlakecountylibrary.org or call the North Lake County Public Library at 406-883-8225.
News from the office of Senator Daines
U.S. SENATE — U.S. Senator Steve Daines recently announced that business mogul Kevin O’Leary will join the Montana “On The Rise” Economic Summit in Bozeman scheduled for June 1 and 2. The Summit will highlight Montana’s many emerging and existing job sectors from high-tech and photonics to crypto and biotechnology. “As an investor, I’m always looking for states that have pro-business regulatory environments, competitive taxes and leadership that wants to do business. Montana is starting to give Florida and Texas a run for their money. That’s why I’m here,” Kevin O’Leary said. For more information and to register for the Summit go to: https://montanaontherise.com/ Other guests will be: U.S. Senator Steve Daines, Governor Greg Gianforte, Ambassador Max Baucus, Kevin O’Leary, President and CEO of Qualcomm Incorporated Cristiano Amon, Chief Creative Officer and Co-Founder of Robinhood Markets Baiju Bhatt and CEO of FICO William Lansing are confirmed to speak.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT Worker sought by City of Ronan. Accepting applications for the full-time position until position is filled. Benefit package. Wage DOE. Obtain application, requirements, and job description by e-mail: clerk@cityofronan.org or stopping by at Ronan City Hall, 207 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864
43
School District No. 30 Ronan/Pablo Schools *PUBLIC NOTICE*
N E W S PA P E R
RESOLUTION TO DISPOSE OF REAL OR PERSONAL PROPERTY
A S S O C I AT I O N
PARTICIPATING NEWSPAPERS
News from the North Lake County Public Library
Business leaders join economic summit
JOIN MONTANA’S EFFECTIVE Statewide Online Advertising Program (SOAP)
In Compliance with 20-6-604, MCA, on May 9, 2022 the Ronan-Pablo Board of Trustees of School District No. 30, resolved to sell/dispose of surplus property which is unsuitable for the school purposes of the District. The District will hold a surplus sale June 15, 2022 from 8:00-9:00 a.m. at the Storage Barn East of the K. Wm. Harvey Elementary School in Ronan.
250,000 $1,499
IMPRESSIONS FOR
Items to be sold: Laptops, computer equipment, printers, tables, chairs, desks, old curriculum, old salad bars, dumbbell weights from the HS weight room remodel, old chrome carts, old Promethean boards, old laser engraver, games, cafeteria tables, old mixers, old cold units, milk cooler, shelving unit, file cabinets, and an old piano.
More items maybe added before June 15th.
CALL: 406.443.2850 DETAILS: mtnewspapers.com Valley Journal
June 1, 2022 - 35
graphic novel from page 17
which is a very deplorable number. My friend told them, ‘Hey, I know the person for this.’ And so he called me and asked if I would be interested in writing a children’s lit piece based in Indian Country.” Smoker and Peeterse are longtime friends and collaborators. They spent time with each other through the pandemic, which brought them even closer together, and made Peeterse the obvious choice as writing partner. “As a poet, I was apprehensive about writing dialog and characters in this new setting,” Smoker says. “But I knew I wanted it to be funny. We got through the pandemic together with our families with a sense of humor and appreciation for one another. I knew it would be fun to collaborate.” The humor in “Thunderous” is grounded in the world of teenagers and young adults. Aiyana responds to the
talking animals with a balance of reverence and teenage disbelief, which gives the story a modern authenticity, but also allows her character to take the weighty lessons of experience seriously enough that she is transformed into a stronger person by story’s end. Smoker and Peeterse tested that story against a tough audience: their two graphic-novel-reading 9-year-old daughters. “We had a little peanut gallery,” Peeterse says. “We would knock around ideas in front of the kids, and they’d be like, ‘Mom, that’s so dumb.’ So that was helpful. They would either think it was cool or roll their eyes. They had lots of feedback.” Graphic novels are centered on visual art. Dale Deforest, a Navajo illustrator and graphic designer, created the main work for “Thunderous.” Barcelona-based artist Oriol Vidal drew the cover. Smoker says they insisted on having a Native artist do the bulk of
the drawings as a way to support Native artists and inspire emerging comic illustrators. “Hopefully he will inspire another generation of kids that are already into comic books, already into all the Marvel stuff,” Smoker says. “We want it to really provide a gateway to that universe to help Native kids be like, ‘I can draw that. I can do that.’” Though it was a new experience for the authors, there were some familiar elements that echoed the process of writing poetry. “It was sort of like a poem in that you change one part of the story and there’s a domino effect to the rest of the story,” Peeterse says. “And the culmination of Aiyana’s journey is like the turn of a poem. The moment she has her epiphany, that’s straight poetry, right there.” Poets are by nature economical with language. Still, writing a graphic novel meant giving even more space to the illustrations and paring
down the story. That aspect was especially difficult for Smoker and Peeterse because “Thunderous” is a retelling of a Lakota story that involves four days and seven traditional values. In the end, they had to condense Aiyana’s journey to two days and focus on three values: generosity, kinship and fortitude. Fortitude isn’t exactly the right word for the concept, Smoker notes, but it’s the closest English equivalent they could find. And that was the other challenge. The concepts and text of “Thunderous” are based on the Lakota language. And there is no exact translation. Even the Lakota spellings were difficult to pin down because the stories have been spoken more often than written. The authors were able to get feedback on language and dialog from tribal members, but there was almost never agreement, even among Indigenous consultants. One thing they did want to do was offer some Lakota
Daines celebrates anniversary at Yellowstone News from the office of Senator Daines
YELLOWSTONE PARK — On May 27, Senator Daines was at Yellowstone National Park to commemorate its 150th anniversary and to celebrate the opening of the new Tower-Roosevelt to Chittenden Road. Following the ribbon cutting, Daines said, “Glad to join folks today to celebrate Yellowstone National Park’s 150th birthday and for the unveiling of the Tower-Roosevelt to Chittenden Road which will help expand public access to public lands. Our parks help set us apart from the rest of the world, and Yellowstone was the very first!” 36 - June 1, 2022
Valley Journal
words within the story without explanation, though they do provide a glossary, which they included in the hope of piquing the interest of Native and non-Native kids interested in language. For Smoker, providing an entertaining story for kids and adults was part of the goal, but getting the words right was of the utmost importance. “Thunderous” is conceived as a franchise, so the poets will have more opportunities in the future to explore the Lakota concepts further and pursue the goal of honoring the Lakota storytelling tradition. “Anybody can write a story about Indigenous kids, but how you represent them and their culture and identity is really, really important,” Smoker says. “So we spent a lot of time talking about that and working through it and just hoping that people see that intent, and that they are appreciative and like it.”
vj
classifieds Announcements Auctions JOHNCO STORAGE: Public sale JUNE 1, 2022 at 2:00 pm. at 808 7th Street East, Polson. Sell to highest bidder for CASH OR CERTIFIED CHECK ONLY, contents of units 11, 108, 128, AND 141. Units are subject to redemption prior to sale time. 406-883-5405.
Events Giant Antique Dealer Retirement Sale (Round 2). Four large cargo trailers unloaded and ready for sale! Unique, rare, and one of a kind items. June 9 thru 22 from 9-2 daily. 2590 Murphy St, Missoula
Employment Help wanted HVAC/R Maintenance Technician. **Recent Wage Increase** Montana State University – Bozeman
For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs. montana.edu/postings/24507. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled Key Desk Coordinator Facilities Services/Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/hr/postings/30184. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT WORKER sought by City of Ronan, MT. Accepting applications for the full-time position until position is filled. Benefit package. Wage DOE. Obtain application, requirements, and job description at Ronan City Hall, 207 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864. Or request by e-mail: clerk@cityofronan.org NEMHS has openings for Laboratory Techs: 1 Poplar Hospital and 1 Trinity Hospital. Visit www.nemhs.net or call Mark at 406-653-6575. ASSISTANT AMBULANCE DIRECTOR NEEDED IN
HARDIN: $22.50/hour, great benefits. To find out more call (406)665-9735. Job closes June 2, 2022. DETENTION OFFICER NEEDED IN HARDIN: $44,720/year, great benefits. To find out more call (406) 665-9735. Job closes June 2, 2022. COUNTY ROAD SUPERINTENDENT NEEDED IN HARDIN: $70,179.20/year, great benefits. To find out more call (406) 665-9735. Job closes June 2, 2022. ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE WANTED Hate desk jobs? Enjoy meeting new people and engaging with your community? Join our award-winning staff. Help local businesses bring their message to an engaged readership! Ideal candidate is self-motivated, goal oriented with marketing savvy. Pay is commission-based: 20-25% DOE. Mileage, cell phone allowance and shared healthcare membership paid monthly. Reliable, insured transportation, cell phone, basic computer skills including sending and receiving of at-
tachments via email required. Serious inquiries only. Send letter of interest and resume with three references to summer@valleyjournal.net. WATER MONITORING & MEASUREMENT PROGRAM MANAGER NATURAL RESOURCE DEPARTMENT The successful applicant will possess a Master’s of Science with five years of relevant professional-level experience or Bachelor’s of Science with a minimum of seven 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. #1259/1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, June 9th,2022 @ 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. Work Control Dispatcher. **Recent Wage Increase** .Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and appli-
cation procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/ postings/26096. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled Mail Clerk/Carrier I. Facilities Services/Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/hr/postings/30400. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled MEDICAL CLINIC PRACTICE MANAGER TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant will have either a bachelor’s degree relevant to medical staff management (healthcare administration, health services administration) or a Registered Nurse degree with 3-5 years’ practice management experience. Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants are required to submit a completed Tribal employment application (resumes are not accepted). Copies of relevant see page 38
This week's puzzle answers: Crypto-Quote Solution COURAGE IS FEAR HOLDING ON A MINUTE LONGER. - GEORGE S. PATTON
Valley Journal
June 1, 2022 - 37
classifieds Help wanted cont’d from pg. 37 academic transcripts, licensures, and training certificates. Must provide a copy of a valid driver’s license. Proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe. If claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 to the Tribal Personnel Department, 406.675.2700 ext. 1040, or personnel@cskt.org or visit the cskt.org website for the application. Salary is $26.09 to $29.99 per hour plus benefits, may be employed under contract. Closing date is Thursday, June 9, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug Test. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. Computer Support Specialist II. University Services. Montana State University - Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana. edu/postings/29906. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled Operator – In – Training. Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/28601. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled REGISTRATION & SCHEDULING SPECIALIST Polson - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must possess an Associate’s Degree in Social Work, Human Services, Business Management or a medical related field or 2 years of experience in a medical clinic or secretarial work in health administrative office. Must have 1 year of experience with RPMS database and Epic Electronic Health Record. Must possess a valid driver’s
license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/ training certificates, a completed supplemental background questionnaire (contact the CSKT Personnel Department), copy of driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary is $15.14 to $17.40 per hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1040, or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date is Thursday, June 9, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.
Farm/Ranch Equipment Wanted: Valmar and Gandy air seeders, implement mount style. Call Paul at 763-286-2037 with model and condition.
Heating Heat Squares. Vacuum, Filter, Pool Cover. $300 (406) 745-0064 Cell (626) 315-0137
Real Estate Open House Seeking 1 or 2 bedroom apartment or room to rent that accepts pets in Mission Valley area. 58 yr old RN, non-smoker, non-drinker with small 12 lb. dog. References available. Please call Mary at 406-239-2459.
Vehicles Boats & Motors 2017 Crownline Boat Like New! Red & White. 22.6 Ft.Mercury 6.2L 300 hp. low hours, seats 11,onboard toilet/sink/sprayer back lounger.$72,000 - OBO. Bozeman 406-539-6150 or text
FIDUCIARY INCOME TAX PREPARATION FINANCIAL STATEMENT PREPARATION QUARTERLY REPORTS INDIVIDUAL AND BUSINESS INCOME TAX PREPARATION BOOKKEEPING PAYROLL
Garage Sale
Multi-Family Yard Sale 609 7th Ave E – Polson Friday 6/3 & Saturday 6/4 9 – 3. No early birds please!
Public Notices
Miscellaneous
Legals
Sporting Goods
Legals
For sale: Swimming Pool: 18’x9’x4’ Deep, Solar
211 Main Street Polson, MT (406) 883-4368 • (406) 883-9250 38 - June 1, 2022
YOUR MESSAGE
ADVERTISE HERE! (4-week commitment)
Call 676-8989 for details
WHEREAS, on April 1, 2022, the Board received a request to abandon approximately 20 foot platted access between Lot 1-6 and 7-12 of Block 1 of Larrivee’s First Addition to Dayton Townsites; and WHEREAS, all affected property owners have been notified, by certified mail; and two of the three have given their consent to the abandonment; and WHEREAS, the 20 foot platted access is a dedicated, undeveloped access; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, a public hearing has been scheduled for Thursday, June 16, 2022, at 10:00 am in the Commissioners Chambers located at 106 4th Avenue East, Polson, MT 59860. Any member of the public wishing to
Polson
as low as $25 per week
RESOLUTION OF INTENTION NO. 22-19 WHEREAS, pursuant to Sections 7-14-2101, 7-14-2102 and 7-14-2103 of the Montana Code Annotated, a Board of County Commissioners has the authority to manage county roads within the county; and
WHEREAS, a Board of County Commissioners has the authority to abandon a county road after a public hearing;
Service Directory FOR ALL YOUR ACCOUNTING NEEDS
PUBLIC NOTICE: The Board of Lake County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Thursday, June 16, 2022, at 10:00 am in the Commissioners Chambers located at 106 4th Avenue East, Room 211 for the purpose of taking public comment on the Resolution of Intention below:
SDAP: Statewide DISPLAY Advertising Program ads (images, graphics, logos and text) start at just $406 per week… that’s less than $7 per newspaper!
406-249-1728 TO LEARN MORE Valley Journal
see page 39
public notices Legals cont’d from pg. 38 comment but unable to attend may do so by emailing lakecommissioners@ lakemt.gov or by mailing a letter to: Lake County Commissioners, 106 4th Avenue East, Polson, MT 59860. PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS 16th DAY OF MAY, 2022.
Salish Kootenai Housing Authority Attn.: Brenda DuMont Address: P.O. Box 38 Pablo, MT 59855 This Summons By Publication is issued pursuant to Title I, Chapter 2, Part 7, Rule 9(3), of the CS&KT Laws Codified. DATED this 16th day of May, 2022. By: Veyanna Curley Clerk of Court
BOARD OF LAKE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
May 25, June 1 and 8, 2022 MNAXLP
/s/ Gale Decker, Chairman /s/ Steve Stanley, Member /s/ William D. Barron, Member
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID ROOF OF LAKE COUNTY COURTHOUSE
Attest: /s/ Katie Harding, Clerk & Recorder June 1 and 8, 2022 MNAXLP SALISH KOOTENAI HOUSING AUTHORITY PO BOX 38 PABLO, MT 59855 TELEPHONE: 406-675-4491 FAX: 406-675-4495 IN THE TRIBAL COURT OF THE CONFEDERATED SALISH AND KOOTENAI TRIBES OF THE FLATHEAD RESERVATION, PABLO, MONTANA SALISH AND KOOTENAI HOUSING AUTHORITY, Plaintiff, vs. GAIL HENDRICKX, Defendant. Cause No. 22-0055-CV SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION THE TRIBAL COURT SENDS GREETINGS TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT: You are hereby summoned to respond to the allegation contained in the above-captioned COMPLAINT FOR EVICTION filed in Tribal Court. You have 15 days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and Tribal holidays) from the last date of publication of this Summons in which to file your written answer with the Tribal Court. If you fail to answer or defend within the time provided under law, a default judgment may be entered against you. Plaintiff/Plaintiff Attorney:
The Lake County Commissioners are requesting sealed bids for the following: Demolition: 1. Remove and dispose of the existing membrane on the roof of the Lake County Courthouse. 2. Remove and replace damaged flashing. 3. Repair any damage to the underlayment. Installation: 4. Install 60 mil (Minimum) TPO membrane roofing system mechanically attached. 5. Mechanically attached TPO membrane on pipes, walls, curbs, scuppers, and drains. 6. Manufacture Termination Bar. Add: Provide price for 20 year Warranty. Provide price for installation of new 24 ga. pre-finished metal coping cap throughout. Sealed bid must be received in the Lake County Commissioners Office no later than 10:00 a.m. on Thursday the 2nd day of June, 2022. If you have any questions contact The Lake County Commissioners; Phone 1-406-883-7204 or Email lakecommissioners@lakemt.gov. May 25 and June 1, 2022 MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLICATION RFP
and the right to refuse any or all bids.
The Confederated Salish Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) is seeking a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) with the capacity to provide environmental consulting services for the CSKT Brownfields Community-Wide Assessment (CWA) grant, funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The firm selected under this RFP would serve the Tribal Response Program (TRP) under multiple funding sources to promote TRP goals and redevelopment on the Reservation. Example funding sources the firm would provide contracted services to include an EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant, Montana DNRC reclamation funding, and EPA funding under the 128(a) Program. Consistency of service would benefit individual brownfields sites and the Program. The selected firm will coordinate, manage, direct and oversee environmental projects under this CWA, advise the CSKT Brownfields Program on strategies for executing the CWA, and provide regulatory and reporting support for the grant. The contract period will run for approximately three (3) years, contingent on availability of funds.
Proposals must be in written format and received no later than 5:30 p.m. Mountain Standard Time on June 15, 2022. Mailing address: CSKT NRD, Brownfields TRP, PO Box 278, Pablo, MT 59855, ATTN: MaryRose Morigeau - Sealed Bid, or e-mail proposals will be accepted; MaryRose.Morigeau@ cskt.org. Late submittals will not be accepted.
This is an Indian Preference bid. Tribal contractors who wish to receive Indian Preference must obtain certification from the Indian Preference Office as a legitimate Indian-owned business prior to bid submission. This certification must be included with your RFP response. Verification of enrollment with a Tribe does not substitute for an Indian Preference Certificate. The selection of the successful contractor and bid award complies with the CSKT Indian Preference Ordinance 101A, as adopted. It is the sole responsibility of the contractor/bidder to obtain and provide proof of the Indian Preference certificate from the Indian Preference Office available at https:// csktribes.org/index.php/employment/ indian-preference-office. Please note: the successful contractor is required to pay a 3% fee to the Indian Preference Office on all contracts over $25,000. For more information on Indian Preference certification, contact Melinda Charlo, (406) 675-2700 ext. 1045. All proposals will become the property of the CSKT Division of Environmental Protection Offices. The Tribes reserve the right to accept, reject, or negotiate any element of any proposal received,
For more information or packet contact: MaryRose Morigeau, CSKT Brownfields TRP/SHW, phone (406) 675-2700 ext. 7215 or e-mail MaryRose.Morigeau@cskt.org. June 1 and 8, 2022 MNAXLP William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC Attorneys at Law 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864 Telephone: (406) 676-4470 bill@fgwilliamslaw.com Attorneys for Personal Representatives MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY KAY BOLINGER McCRACKEN, Deceased. CAUSE NO. DP-22-32 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned have been appointed Co-Personal Repre- sentatives of the above-entitled Estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will be forever barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, must either be mailed to LAUREN BOLINGER and TAYLOR BOLINGER, the Co- Personal Representatives, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 13th day of May, 2022. /s/ Lauren Bolinger
Valley Journal
LAUREN BOLINGER, Co-Personal Representative /s/ Taylor Bolinger TAYLOR BOLINGER, Co-Personal Representative May 18, 25 and June 1, 2022 MNAXLP William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC Attorneys at Law 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864 Telephone: (406) 676-4470 bill@fgwilliamslaw.com Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF STEPHAN JOSEPH ALLARD, Deceased. CAUSE NO. DP-22-34 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed Estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will be forever barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, must either be mailed to STUART MORTON, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 13th day of May, 2022. /s/ Stuart Morton STUART MORTON, Personal Representative May 18, 25 and June 1, 2022 MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY WILLIAM E. MYTTY AND SANDRA F. MYTTY, QUALITY SUPPLY, INC. PROFIT SHARING PLAN AND TRUST
DOUGLAS S. HADNOT, J. CHRIS CRAWFORD AND MYRNA K. CRAWFORD, STEPHEN S. ELLIS, M.D„ P.C. AND THOMAS H. BOONE and RANDY J. COX, TRUSTEES OF THE GROUP OF FOUR LLC PROFIT SHARING TRUST, Plaintiff(s), -vsJOHN P. STOKES, PAMELA J. STOKES, ELIZABETH ANN VANDEBERG f/n/a ELIZABETH ANN PICKAVANCE f/n/a ELIZABETH ANN STOKES, Z-600 INC SKYLINE BROADCASTERS, INC., and HSBC MORTGAGE SERVICES. INC. Defendant(s). Defendants. CAUSE No. DV 14-209 NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE Under and by virtue of an order of foreclosure in the above-entitled action issued by Judge Manley on October 12, 2020, I am commanded to sell at public auction all of the Defendant’s rights and interest to the property described below. The property is to be sold at Sheriff’s Sale on the 14th day of June, 2022, at 10:00 o’clock a.m. at the front door of the Lake County Courthouse, 106 4th Avenue East, Polson, Montana 59860. The following described real property: PARCEL 1: The S 1/2 SW 1/4 of Section 12, Township 26 North, Range 19 West, P.M.M, Lake County, Montana PARCEL 2: The N I/2 NW 1/4 SE 1/4 of Section 12, Township 26 North, Range 19 west, P.M.M., Lake County, Montana PARCEL 3: The S 1/2 NW 1/4 SE 1/4 of Section 12, Township 26 North, Range 19 West, P.M.M., Lake County, Montana DONALD R. BELL LAKE CO. SHERIFF’S OFFICE /s/ Donald R. Bell, 3-14-2022 MNAXLP May 18, 25 and June 1, 2022
Legal Notices are welcome. Deadline is Friday at noon! 406-676-8989 June 1, 2022 - 39
40 - June 1, 2022
Valley Journal
