06-19-24 issue

By Kathi Beeks / Valley Journal

er

points to where an event participant can get a plate of buffalo roast, beans and a

that he helped cook and serve at the

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL PHOTOS

Upper left: Hunt-

Steele

biscuit

Rendezvous.

Left: Kenn McCarty with Live Oak Belgians provided horse drawn wagon rides to transport people from an upper parking lot to the lower encampment.

SOLSTICE

Fort Connah Trading Post was built in 184647 for the Hudson Bay Company Trading by Angus McDonald. With over 1,700 descendants, Angus McDonald’s immigration to America from Scotland in 1836 had a large impact on the history of Western Montana. McDonald originally named the fort “Connen” after a river in his native Scotland but changed it to “Connah” to make it easier for locals to pronounce.

Al Williams, the great-great grandchild of Angus and Cathryn McDonald, and past president of the Fort Connah Restoration Society, believes the annual Fort Connah Rendezvous provides, “… an opportunity once a year to visit people and learn the history of Fort Connah and the McDonald family.”

Event goers could step back into history by taking a Belgian horse drawn wagon ride, watch wool getting spun into yarn, observe black powder shooting demonstrations or participate in spear throwing or arrow shooting activities themselves. Organizers and participants alike wore period-appropriate clothing lending further authenticity to the living history event.

The Restoration Society’s goal is to grow the rendezvous event which began back in 1960 and

Williams believes it is improving and getting bigger each year. Last year approximately 250 people visited during the Rendezvous celebration. This year there were eight vendors, more than they’ve ever had before.

Vendors bring a great variety of trade goods including several period-correct guns and this year a mountain cannon from Glencoe, Scotland. With an eye to purchase the $3,500 cannon, the Restoration Society would very much like to make it a permanent part of their historical site but haven’t figured out how to pay for it. Call Al at 406-546-5067 if you have any ideas or want to make a significant impact by purchasing and donating it to this impressive site.

Fort Connah is located at Post Creek on US Highway 93, 7-miles north of St. Ignatius. For more information or to schedule a tour call 406644-2882 or go to: http://www.fortconnah.org/.

where

in the Rendezvous. With permission from the Spokane Indian Tribe to dress as a woman in mourning from their tribe would during the early 1800s, Kuck shared what women’s work consisted of - including the weaving of baskets so tight they could be used to carry water.

Fort Connah

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SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL PHOTOS

Ace Doyle, 6, dressed in period era clothing with his family members who regularly attend rendezvous events in the northwest during the summer season.

Fort Connah Restoration Society member Preston Miller directs the attention of Miracle of America Museum proprietor Gil Mangles with his cane during the annual Rendezvous June 15.

Skip Kuck from the Northwest Fur Trade Historians organization made the trip from Idaho

she lives to participate

Love to write?

This Week’s Weather Forecast

Boone Goddard

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

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

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Summer Goddard

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

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MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

Lake reaches full pool, lower water levels expected during summer months

By Summer Goddard Valley Journal

Flathead Lake is currently full but unlikely to stay that way as predicted hot, dry summer conditions take hold in July.

Brian Lipscomb, CEO of Energy Keepers Inc., anticipates that the lake’s water level will sag by a foot or possibly more next month. When inflows drop below minimum outflows, the lake level drops he said.

EKI, which is licensed to manage the top ten feet of water on Flathead Lake in its energy production at Séliš Ksanka QÍispé Dam, came under scrutiny last summer when the lake’s water levels dipped to record lows - 30 inches below full pool at its lowest point. EKI responded by shifting to the lowest minimum outflows required by their license. Following accusations of mismanagement, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission determined via investigation that EKI complied with the operational requirements of their license during the summer of 2023.

To share current state of the lake information and let residents know what they can expect this summer, Lipscomb took the opportunity to speak at a recent meeting of the Lake County Democrats. To the nearly 50 people gathered in the North Lake County Public Library conference room, he explained that

cooler than normal winter temperatures, heavy rains and flooding in the Pacific Northwest. According to the NOAA website, while these episodes occur on average every two to seven years, there is no regular schedule and El Niño generally occurs more frequently than La Niña.

Lipscomb noted that we’re just finishing an El Niño winter cycle. “The good news is this is starting to transition,” he said. “There’s a 60% chance that by the end of summer we’ll be in a La Niña winter cycle. We’re hot and dry now and have been for two years.”

water supply is at the heart of the issue.

“June, July and August of 2023 were some of the lowest water supplies we’ve ever experienced in the Flathead,” Lipscomb said.

Rising average global surface temperatures is what’s driving the change, he added, noting that 2023 was the hottest year on record globally.

“These small changes in averages bring big changes in extremes,” he said. While 2023 saw record low lake levels, Lipscomb reminded meeting attendees that the lake overfilled by 7 inches the previous year, in 2022. He noted that the only other year the lake overfilled since the

dam was built was in 1964.

Big swings in water supply – from too much to too little – are becoming more common. According to the National Oceanic and At-

mospheric Administration, El Niño and La Niña are “opposing climate patterns in the Pacific Ocean that can affect weather worldwide.” El Niño

brings warmer, drier winter weather patterns to the Pacific Northwest, ultimately impacting water supplies through less snowfall.

La Niña patterns bring

Lipscomb noted that energy demands are also increasing as it takes more electricity to cool people’s homes during extreme heat waves. “Those heat cycles that we see in the summer time are going to get worse – they’re not going to get better,” he said. “The best I can do is keep people informed.”

To that end, EKI has developed a Range of Forecast graphic that shows a range for predicted water levels on Flathead Lake during the summer months. The graphic plots actual inflow and outflow data and corresponding water levels on the left side with forecasted inflows and corresponding high and low water levels on the right. The Range of Forecast graphic is updated weekly and posted to EKI’s website and Facebook page.

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Children play at the water’s edge at Riverside Park in Polson on June 11. With a water elevation of 2,893 feet, Flathead Lake has reached full pool.

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Brian Lipscomb, CEO of Energy Keepers Inc., points to a black line that represents this year’s water supply on an NRCS graph. The graph shows current and previous years’ snow water equivalents from November to September and where they fall within historic minimum, median or maximum categories.

Climate change activist gets tribal blessing prior to 1,200 mile bike tour

By Summer Goddard Valley Journal

PABLO — A man from Utah began a 1,200-mile bike ride in Pablo last Saturday to bring awareness to the issue of climate change. Combining advocacy for the planet with his personal passion for adventure and cycling, Bill Barron, the Mountain West regional director of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, began his 2-week journey that will eventually end in Cheyenne, Wyoming, at Salish Kootenai College. Members of the Eagle Pass Drum group met with Barron at SKC at 8:45 a.m. on June 15 to send him off with honor songs and a sweetgrass blessing.

From Salt Lake City, Utah, Barron does outreach tours on a regular basis to support the work of CCL volunteers in Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Nevada. He seeks to spread awareness about the importance of bipartisanship, voting and advocacy for the future people wish to see. He encourages people to make advocacy “a lifetime practice.”

In a press release about his bike tour, Barron shares: “I’ve been deeply concerned about the increasing droughts, wildfires, and extreme weather events driven by climate change and how these will impact

my daughter’s future. The world is now heating up 50 times faster than at any other period in history. This ride is about listening to the experiences of our neighbors and spreading the message that we have actionable solutions to protect our planet for future generations.”

With numerous public engagement events planned along the way, Barron seeks to hear the varied perspectives of citizens about climate change and how it affects them as well as raise funds for CCL education and advocacy. Funds raised, he explained, will be used for travel expenses of regional volunteers lobbying efforts in Washington D.C. as well as the development of bipartisan solutions to climate change.

Transitioning to clean energy, Barron says, has

From left are Marty Zobel with CSKT Natural Resources, Dave Atkins of CCL, Mike Durglo, Jim Durglo, Robert Schulz and Les Trahan of Eagle Pass Drum and cyclist Bill Barron, CCL.

economic benefits. “In the past three years at least 84% of the new energy capacity in the U.S. was clean energy,” he said. “More than 95% of new energy projects currently waiting for permits are solar, wind and battery storage,” he continued. “The market is moving to clean energy and there is opportunity for much more growth.

Those states who resist this transition will be left behind for areas where clean energy is embraced and the economic benefit will go there.”

“Currently CCL’s primary ask is advocating for comprehensive permitting reform and the PROVE IT Act and our secondary asks are the Increased TSP Access Act and Seedlings for

Sustainable Restoration Act,” Barron said.

Permitting reform is about speeding up the process to build clean energy infrastructure. The PROVE IT Act (Providing Reliable, Objective, Verifiable, Emissions Intensity and Transparency) “would require the Department of Energy to study the greenhouse gas emissions intensity of certain products – including aluminum, cement, crude oil, fertilizer, iron, steel, plastic and others –that are produced in the United States and in certain covered countries.” A CCL press release further reads, “Greenhouse gas emissions are a global issue, and trade and the power of the American market are some of the best tools we have to reduce global emissions.”

The TSP Access Act addresses “the current Technical Service Pro-

viders (TSPs) shortage, which is impacting the ability of agricultural producers to fully utilize current conservation and climate programs.”

The Seedlings for Sustainable Habitat Restoration Act supports “the development of seedling nurseries to improve and expand restoration efforts … (and) has the potential to significantly aid in forest recovery from wildfires.”

A non-partisan, grassroots advocacy organization focused on the issue of climate change, CCL encourages people to let their voices be heardtransitioning from spectators to engaged citizens in the democratic process. Those interested in following Barron’s route should visit CitizensClimateMT.org or follow his journey on Instagram @cclmontana and @BillBarronUtah.

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Eagle Pass drum sings the “Pat Adams” honor song for Bill Barron prior to his embarking on a 1,200 mile bike tour to bring awareness to the issue of climate change.

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL Citizens’ Climate Lobby Mountain West Regional Director Bill Barron began his 2-week bike tour at Salish Kootenai College in Pablo.

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

MFBN’s Campaign for Bigger Impact has just $3 million left to raise

MISSOULA —Across the state, 1 in 9 Montanans don’t have enough food, including 1 in 6 children, and the need is only getting greater. As Montana’s only statewide food bank, Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) has a network of 360 partners statewide, including community food banks, pantries, schools, senior centers,

shelters, and tribal centers. This summer, MFBN is partnering with Albertsons Companies, which has 40 Albertsons/Safeway grocery stores statewide—a fitting and timely partnership, as MFBN officially announced its Campaign for Bigger Impact just a little over one month ago. Through the campaign, MFBN will build a new facility that will allow it to source, store, and distribute more fresh, nutritious, and locally sourced food to its statewide partners.

“We are grateful for the ongoing partnership from Albertsons/Safeway stores in Montana,” said Bill Mathews, Chief

“ Hunger relief is the number one priority for Albertsons Companies.”

- Communications, Public RelationsAlbertsons Companies, Kathy Holland

Development Officer at MFBN. “Everyone has a part to play in ending hunger in Montana, and the support of Albertsons and their shoppers will have an impact in our communities across the state.”

Come early June, shoppers will find every Alb-

ertsons/Safeway store in the state of Montana supporting and advertising to help spread the word and raise funds towards the $3 million still needed to complete MFBN’s $15 million campaign.

“Hunger relief is the number one priority for Albertsons Companies,”

said Kathy Holland, Communications and Public Relations for Albertsons Companies Intermountain Division. “Helping support individuals and families having access to food and helping support the programs at Montana Food Bank Network is just so incredibly important for us.”

To learn more about MFBN’s Campaign for Bigger Impact, visit: www.mfbn.org/campaign-for-bigger-impact.

About Montana Food Bank Network Montana Food Bank Network’s (MFBN) mission is to end hunger in Montana through food acquisition and distribution,

education, and advocacy. Founded in 1983, MFBN is Montana’s only statewide food bank and member of Feeding America. MFBN distributes food to 360 partners that include community food banks, pantries, schools, senior centers, and shelters to end hunger in Montana. MFBN’s hunger relief programs include BackPack, Hunters Against Hunger, Mail-a-Meal, No Kid Hungry, Retail Food Rescue, and SNAP outreach. MFBN advocates for long-term policy solutions to strengthen public nutrition programs and address the root causes of hunger.

Firefighters cook up fun at annual fundraising picnic

Story by Kathi Beeks,

ST. IGNATIUS — The St. Ignatius Firefighters annual fundraising picnic and auction took place for the 26th year on Saturday, June 15, at Old Town Field from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

According to St. Ignatius Fire Chief Paul Adams, the goal for their annual fundraising picnic is to “beat it out of the park” from the previous year. Every year produces different results and Adams said last year “they knocked it out of the park, but the previous year was a dud.” Typical funds raised come in at approximately $30,000.

The St. Ignatius Rural Fire Department owns the trucks but the Auxiliary raises money for personal protective gear called turnouts that cost $8,000 a set and SCBA equipment (self-contained breathing apparatus) that costs $9,000 each.

While the firefighters did the cook-

ing, the Firefighter Auxiliary puts together the live and silent auctions. Auctioneer Travis Jeppesen provides the live auction calling which this year included three guns: a diamond back, side kick pistol that has two cylinders, a 22 long rifle and a 22 mag; a Mossberg 7MM rifle with a scope (kid size), and a 22-guage C2 shotgun. Other live auction items included a 4-cord dump truck of firewood courtesy of Hunt’s Timbers Inc., a custom made fire pit

by St. Ignatius High School welding instructor Matthew Young, a handmade rooster weathervane from Kefler Lighting Protection, and a beautiful, donated leather coach. Glacier Park posters and Ninepipes gift certificates were some of the silent auction items. Raffle items included a whole hog cut and wrapped from D & J Meats; two $250 gift certificates from Rod’s Harvest Foods; and ½ a beef from Kurt McPherson.

Chief Adams said the fire department

is always open to monetary or donated items after the annual picnic event. He explained items will be stored until the following year.

Photos by Summer Goddard / Valley Journal

Auctioneer Travis Jeppeson points to a bidder while his son McKoy, 5, holds an auction item during the annual St. Ignatius Volunteer Fire Department picnic on Saturday, June 15. Right: Community members stand outside of and sit under the Good Old Days Park pavilion during the live auction. Lower right: A silent auction was also held to raise funds for the fire department and a bounce house slide (lower left) set up for children to play on.

News from Upper Seven Law

HELENA — On June 13, 2024, a group of Montana voters responded to Senator Keith Regier’s unprecedented attempt to avoid discovery of documents related to partisan gerrymandering of the Public Service Commission (“PSC”).

“

A district court previously held that the PSC district map likely was an illegal partisan gerrymander— meaning that the map likely was drawn to prevent legitimate political competition for the five PSC seats.

The Right to Know is critical to maintaining transparency in government.”

As the voters argue, the Montana Constitution cannot abide such secrecy. The right to know— unique among state constitutions—guarantees that individuals may “examine documents or to observe the deliberations of all public bodies or agencies of state government,” with no exception for legislators.

A copy of the response accompanies this press release.

About the Plaintiffs:

The Mission Mountain Chapter of the Grizzly Scholarship Association WE ARE MONTANA Fight continues against government secrecy

The voters seek information from Senator Regier—the map’s sponsor—consistent with ordinary discovery procedures. Senator Regier claims an extraordinary ability to evade those procedures. The “absolute legislative privilege” he asserts, which has never been recognized in Montana, would prevent citizens from accessing any nonpublic information about the Legislature. If this privilege were adopted, legislators could shield essentially all legislative materials from public view.

- Constance Van Kley, plaintiffs’ attorney

“Legislative privilege threatens voters’ ability to hold elected officials accountable,” said Whitney Tawney, executive director of Montana Conservation Voters. “This is especially damaging in gerrymandering cases because gerrymandering interferes with accountability by engineering election results.”

“The Right to Know is critical to maintaining transparency in government,” said Constance Van Kley, attorney for the plaintiffs. “Absolute legislative privilege would eviscerate the fundamental right to access government information—and hold government actors accountable at the ballot box.”

Montana nonprofit law firm Upper Seven Law represents the plaintiffs.

Montana Conservation Voters is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting Montana’s climate, communities, and future generations by supporting leaders who fight for conservation and by holding accountable leaders who do not. MCV’s work will bolster a robust democracy and increase civic engagement to strengthen our conservation efforts and ensure Montana’s redistricting commission remains fair.

The Individual Plaintiff Voters are:

Joseph Lafromboise, a member of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of Rocky Boy and PSC District 1 voter; Nancy Hamilton, a Valley County resident and District 1 voter;

Simon Harris, a Yellowstone County resident and District 1 voter;

Donald Seifert, a Gallatin County resident and District 2 voter;

Daniel Hogan, a Butte-Silver Bow County and District 3 voter;

George Stark, a Missoula County resident and District 4 voter;

Lukas Illion, a Lewis & Clark County resident and District 5 voter; and

Bob Brown, a Flathead County resident, District 5 voter, and former legislator, Montana Secretary of State, and gubernatorial candidate.

thanks the following Griz fans and all who contributed to make our 2024 Annual Memorial Golf for the Griz tournament held at the Mission Mountain Golf Course such a successful event:

S & S Sports

Anderson Broadcasting

Eagle Bank

Fidelity Title Company

Katie Voth

Gage Accounting

Lawless Athletic Clothing

Murdoch’s

Rocky Mountain Signworks

Access Montana

Don Aadsen Ford

French, Grainey, & Williams

Gauthier Agency

Glacier Bank

Harvest Foods

Pheasant Lounge

Second Chance Saloon

Valley Bank

Subway

U of M Athletics

Ninepipes Lodge

Mission Mountain Golf Club & Crew

Wildhorse Framing and Art Gallery

Great Gray Gifts

Summit

Ronan Coop Brewery

St. Joseph’s Hospital

Delaneys’ Landscape Center

McDonald’s

Pacific Golf

Flathead Raft Co.

Robbie Gauthier

First Interstate Bank

John’s Fuel Farm

Mark Nelson

Robin Nelson

Becky Dupuis

Bird Family Dentistry

Les Schwab Tire Center Ronan

U of M Coaches and representatives

Western Montana Dentistry

Lady Bird Sky Riders

Zip Beverage

Shari McLaughlin

All golf teams entered St. Luke Healthcare Network

Ronan Dental Clinic

Shawn Kenelty

Alice Erb

Carlee Fryberger

Harry Bean

Gonzaga University

Shawn Wilson Cheers

Whitefish Credit Union

Duckworth Law Office

Beacon Tire

CSKT Gaming Commission

MMCGSA BOARD - BRENNIN

GRAINEY, JAMIE BUHR, DICK

GALLAGHER, DENNIS LABONTY, CHRISTY BOCKMAN, LANDON GODFREY, CARLENE BOCKMAN

valley views

Library kicks off summer reading program

Wehave successfully kicked off our annual Summer Reading Program with over 100 attendees at our first program and 289 registrations on the first day. It’s not too late to register – you actually have until Aug. 10. Visit our website or stop in the library for details. We have wonderful incentives from local businesses, great prizes, and fantastic programs. A library card is not required to participate, and the program is open to everyone from newborns to super seniors.

We are so grateful to our community partners for their participation and support in hosting these programs. Upcoming programs include “Geocaching” with Stef Nordberg, “Orienteering with Families First,” “Scuba Diving” at the Mission Valley Aquatic Center with Missoula Scuba and Snorkel, a visit from Animal Wonders, SpectrUM’s “Be a Space Scientist” program, Movie Day at the Showboat Cinema, and a big end of summer block party for the whole family.

Each Thursday at 10 a.m. we host a special program for preschool and elementary aged kids.

We have also had the great fortune to work with the Lake County Conversation District to

build up our seed catalog. Join us Saturday, June 22, at 10:30 a.m. for a pollinator workshop. All ages are welcome. On July 1 at 6 p.m. local author Butch Larcombe will join us to unveil his newest book “Historic Tales of Flathead Lake.” He will have copies available for purchase and signing at the event. Please contact the library to register as there is limited seating available. Save the date for two other big July programs including a Montana authors forum on July 13 at 1 p.m. featuring Christine Carbo, Leslie Budewitz, Milana Marsenich and Mary O’Brien, and a Cowboy Camp Sing-Along on July 20 at 2 p.m. featuring “Tango Cowboy” Rich Hinrichsen.

Our regular programs for kids continue

throughout the summer including Mother Goose on Mondays at 9:15 a.m. for the 0-3 tots and toddlers and the Page Turner’s Youth Book Club. Our reopening has truly been incredible for all of us. We are seeing our visit numbers back to what they were in 2019. The kids play area is a huge hit with the pirate ship and we love that we have been able to add several new staff members to our team. So many people are either discovering the library for the first time or rediscovering it after many years. We love that we can be a community hub for groups like the coffee ladies, the knitters, the teens that come and hang out after school –and that we can provide spaces for people to do remote work, take online

courses and have small meetings. Our community room is in use almost daily by either the library or groups renting the space. We have been privileged to host several large groups offering important trainings for our community. We want to thank all of you who are supporting our library and who have truly turned it into the place that we all dreamed it could be.

Come visit us. Our regular hours are Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Joyful Cup Coffee and Tea is open Monday – Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Library Board meeting for June is Tuesday, June 25, at 5:30 p.m. Curbside pickup is available for everyone during open

hours. Please call us at 406-883-8225 or email us at: polsonlibrary@ northlakecountylibrary. org with questions. You can also visit our website at: www.northlakecountylibrary.org for more information.

LETTER POLICY

Community advocate, friend is missed

Editor,

I am writing today to remember my friend Rod Johnson. Rod passed in April, much too young, after suffering from health issues. The family wrote a great obituary, outlining the success Rod had

achieved through the years and many of his personal time activities.

I wanted to touch on some of the community service, most of it unrecognized, that Rod and his companies provide over his many years. I would guess he donated to every single person and organization that requested one. Hundreds of individuals and

worthy causes benefited from his faithful support. I knew Rod and his family for over 50 years. Their commitments to Polson and Lake County cannot be measured. Since Don Olsson and others established the Lower Flathead Valley Community Foundation, in 1998, Rod was our only treasurer until his recent retirement. Over

those 25 years, Rod managed all investments for the foundation earning an estimated $4 million dollars that have been gifted to worthy community activities. Some of that funding went to assisting the local Boys and Girls Club when it was getting its start. Later larger grants were made to assist with the growth the club has enjoyed. Rod

also quietly pushed for funding and technical assistance to help the Polson Aquatics Center complete their financing on the facility. He also has helped direct reliable funding to the Polson and Ronan libraries. He was an effective advocate for the Polson soccer fields. He also brought to

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Letters to the editor are welcome. The content is the opinion of the letter writer and not the newspaper. The decision to publish letters is made by the editor. Letters must be 350 words or less. A writer will only be published twice per month. Letters may be edited for content or length, or may not be published if considered libelous, in poor taste, spiteful, self-promotional or of limited interest to the general readership. Space limitations also dictate when or if letters are published. Letters must be signed by the author and name, address and phone number must be included – phone number is for verification purposes only. Letters from organizations must include the name of at least one author. Please limit “thank you” letters to four people/organizations or less. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday to publish the following week.

Opinions expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the newspaper.

Abbi Dooley, North Lake County Public Library District

View from the Library

letters

from page10

the foundation smaller but equally important funding requests that helped the Local American Legion team improve their facility in addition to Valley wide youth baseball programs. Countless smaller grants were made to Salish Kootenai College, Annual PowWow celebrations and many other worthy programs.

Most of all, I like many of you miss my friend. Rod always made himself available for a short visit at his office which included several examples of his famous dry wit and measured sarcasm, regardless of the issue of the day.

My sincerest sympathy to Cindy and his family and I want to thank them for sharing Rod with us.

Bob Gauthier Ronan

Young on the inside

Averygood friend shared a written message regarding thoughts on aging with me. It was about growing old, but not feeling like you are growing old. It gave me pause to ponder.

our bathroom mirror now houses?

I know I don’t want to - or plan to.

Slices of Life

Pertler Syndicated columnist

Your hair may be graying. Your skin thins and sags. Laugh lines - aka wrinkles - provide evidence of the happiness you’ve experienced. Medical issues may be more prevalent and demand more of your attention than in the past. All around you, your body shows obvious signs of aging, but inside you’re still the same youyouthful and young. Isn’t that the truth?

We all grow old, on the outside; but don’t we feel young on the inside?

I know I do. Do we ever change from that young, energetic spirit that once embodied our bodies into the old, wrinkled self that

Time changes our physical beings. But it doesn’t change all the rest: our character, our sense of humor, our wisdom, our knowledge, our sense of adventure, our free spirit, our sassiness, our love for life, our soul. We are so much more than the skin on our bones. We are so much more than the cells that make up our bodies. We are so much more than wrinkles and gray hair, sagging jowls and sagging - well, I won’t go there. Wouldn’t it be cool if there were a mirror that could see us from the inside, as we see ourselves? As we truly feel? As we truly are?

Sigh. There are no magic mirrors.

Our eyes, and our mirrors, are constrained to the visual rules of Mother Earth’s three-or-so di-

mensions. It’s only when we leapfrog over these facts that we see things not as they physically are, but as they truly are. All too often, that knowledge comes with the lessons of time. And by the time we learn this, youth has often been spent.

It’s at this point, you look in the mirror and realize the only one who sees who you really are –still – is you, and perhaps (if you are lucky) those who have watched the calendar turn, year after year, with you, alongside you.

Those who have known you – inside and out –

for decades. Since band class in junior high. Since sophomore year in high school. Since then, whenever that was, when youth was easy and undeniable and under-appreciated and so very there for the taking.

But then, like sands through the hourglass… Youth fades. Along the way – through the days and months and years and decades – it gives way to time and time creates not only wrinkled skin but the cloak of invisibility. It comes upon us gradually - much like age is said to creep up on us.

In our culture, youth is

shiny and bright and very visible. Aging is not. So as the calendar turns over each year and our age number increases by one, we become less youthful and a little less visible to those who merely see what is in front of them.

We don the cloak of invisibility.

But perhaps invisibility isn’t so bad. Perhaps it is even under-rated. Perhaps it can be your secret. Our secret.

Because in the end, it doesn’t really matter what the mirror reflects back upon you. It doesn’t matter what other peo-

Proud Community Partner

- Winston Churchill

Jill

Young from page 11

ple see, or think they see when they meet you face to face.

Because you know. You. Know.

Age is a gift, and in such, this is written in truth. In some regards, increasing age brings with it decreasing visibility within the norms of this physical world. But that is okay. It is more than okay.

The beauty of youth gives way to the beauty of age. And if you learn to see that, really see that, you are truly bestowed.

Growing old is inevitable.

Becoming old is a choice.

What you see in the mirror is your decisionat any age.

And that, my friends, is truly magic.

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

vj

Democracy is bipartisan

Having proudly served as former Secretaries of State in Montana, we understand how important democracy is to the people of our state. It’s not a matter of what side of the aisle you stand on – it’s a matter of what you value.

Recently our state’s Supreme Court reaffirmed

Valley Views

Linda McCulloch Bob Brown former Montana Secretaries of State

that Montanan’s right to cast a ballot is not a mere privilege – it is a right guaranteed by our Constitution. A coalition of lawmakers in Congress, including Montana’s Senator Tester, are working to uphold the integrity of our democracy through the Freedom to Vote Act and

the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

The reintroduction of both these important bills comes at a critical moment. These measures are designed to combat voter suppression, restrict dark money in politics, and support transparency across the board. They work to ensure that Montanans, and all Americans, can cast their

Ronan-North Project road construction update

News from Sloane Stinson, On behalf of MDT

RONAN — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and Riverside Contracting Inc. have the following work planned for the week of June 17:

Crews are continuing to install streetlights along US Highway 93 and complete site cleanup throughout the project area.

Traffic control will be in place. Single-lane closures may be required where crews are working. The speed limit remains at 35 mph in the construction zone. Please follow all posted signage and watch for workers and equipment.

Sidewalk work also continues on the north side of Round Butte Road, east of the railroad tracks. The road shoulders are closed where

work is underway, and flaggers will periodically assist with safe travel.

Crews will be onsite Monday, June 17, through Friday, June 21, from 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m. All work is dependent on weather and other unforeseen factors.

MDT appreciates the community’s feedback regarding the newly realigned intersection of US 93 with Old US 93 and 3rd Avenue. Solutions are being evaluated and we will provide an update as soon as possible.

Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Email me at: sloane@bigskypublicrelations.com or call the project hotline at 406-207-4484, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on the RonanNorth project, visit www.mdt. mt.gov/pubinvolve/ronanurban/.

ballots without interference from special interests, out-of-state influence, and endless hurdles. These bills ensure fair and honest voting practices and are something all citizens, including our Congressional delegation, can unite behind regardless of party.

By supporting the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement

Act, we can ensure that Montana continues to set an example for maintaining the integrity of our elections. We are onboard with this. It’s the Montana way.

Editor’s note:

Linda McCulloch served as Secretary of State as a Democrat from 20092017.

Bob Brown served as Secretary of State as a Republican from 2001-2005.

DPHHS: Discard Diamond Shruumz-Brand products

HELENA — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising people to not eat, sell, or serve any flavor of Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, cones, or gummies, and that consumers should discard any previously purchased product immediately. Diamond Shruumzbrand products can be purchased online and in person at retail locations.

The FDA is investigating a series of illnesses associated with eating Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, cones, and gummies. As of June 11, 2024, a total of 12 illnesses have been reported from eight states. Ten individuals have been hospitalized nationwide. At this time, no deaths have been linked to these products.

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is investigating a possible Montana case associated with this exposure.

Reported symptoms after product consumption include seizures, central nervous system depression (e.g., loss of consciousness, confusion, sleepiness), agitation, abnormal heart rates, hyper/hypotension, nausea, and vomiting. The FDA is working to determine the cause of these illnesses.

This product may appeal to children and teenagers as it is marketed as a candy with flavors such as birthday cake and cookies and cream. Parents and caregivers should consider discussing the information in this advisory with their children. Any edible product containing mushrooms, THC, or CBD, should be safely stored away from children to avoid product consumption.

“If you become ill after consuming these products, contact your healthcare provider and/or call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-2221222,” said DPHHS Public Health Physician Dr. Maggie Cook-Shimanek. ““Let them know you have recently consumed the Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate Bars, cones, and/or gummies.”

The FDA notes that retailers should not sell or distribute any flavor of Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, cones, or gummies, and should hold the product in a secure location until additional instructions can be provided on how to return or safely dispose of the product.

For more information, see the FDA notice: Investigation of Illnesses: Diamond ShruumzBrand Chocolate Bars, Cones, & Gummies (June 2024) | FDA.

schools Arntzen announces homeless children funding awards

News from Superintendent of Public Instruction

Elsie Arntzen

HELENA — Superintendent Elsie Arntzen is pleased to announce that 12 Montana school districts will receive $424,800 in reallocated funds from the American Rescue Plan Homeless Children and Youth (ARP-HCY) program through the U.S. Department of Education. Districts across Montana will receive funds to provide meaningful services to over 1,000 homeless students, helping them stay on track with their educational goals and aspirations. Districts may use ARP-HCY Funds to: Identify homeless children and youth; Provide comprehensive wraparound services in light of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; Provide needed assistance to enable homeless children and youth to attend and participate fully in school activities, such as: In-person instruction

Spring and summer learning - Enrichment programs

“These grants are an investment in Montana’s most precious resources, our children,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen.

“My Montana Hope initiative focuses on providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all children. These school districts reflect Montana’s constitutional promise of promoting educational excellence for all our Montana students.”

Local School District Ronan No. 30 received $8,000 in funding. According to the 2023 Annual Homelessness Assessment Report (AHAR) to Congress, by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, about 11% of Montana’s homeless population consists of unaccompanied youth. Unaccompanied youth are children under 18 years old in households with only children who are not part of a family

with children or accompanied by their parent or guardian. During the 2022-2023 school year, there were 5,261 homeless students in Montana, or 3.5% of all K-12 students. Homelessness is defined as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and includes: children and youths who are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or a similar reason; are living in motels, hotels, trailer parks, or camping grounds due to the lack of alternative adequate accommodations; are living in emergency or transitional shelters; or are abandoned in hospitals; children and youths who have a pri-

mary nighttime residence that is a public or private place not designed for or ordinarily used as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings; children and youths who are living in cars, parks, public spaces, abandoned buildings, substandard housing, bus or train stations, or similar settings; and migratory children… who qualify as homeless for the purposes of this subtitle because the children are living in circumstances described in clauses (i) through (iii). There are still ARPHCY funds available to schools with homeless student needs. Interested districts should contact Serena Wright, State Coordinator of Homeless Education, at Serena.

Locals make FVCC Dean’s List

News from Flathead Valley Community College

KALISPELL — Flathead Valley Community College officials have announced the names of students who made the Dean’s List for the Spring 2024 semester. The following students are listed in alphabetical order by their home communities and completed at least 12 credits last semester in courses numbered 100 or above and earned a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.5:

Big Arm: Roan A. Ihnat

Charlo: Bennan P. Andersen, Kyla N. Tomlin

Plains: Hailee M. Steinebach, Abigail A. Wessely

Polson: Layne K. Zimmerman

St. Ignatius: Kaylee Koenig

Carroll College names local students to Spring 2024 Dean’s List

News from Carrol College

HELENA — Carroll College named local area students listed below to its 2024 spring semester dean’s list. To be included on the dean’s list, a student must receive a 3.5 grade point average or higher on a 4.0 scale and take at least 12 graded credits in a semester.

Arlee: Jerny Crawford

Charlo: Bellicia Hawk

Hot Springs: Katelyn Christensen

Plains: Audrey Brown

Polson: Margaret Todd

Ronan: Jaslyn Frost, James Normandeau, Vincente Orteg

First Lady Gianforte celebrates statewide expansion of Imagination Library

Partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library provides free books to Montana children up to age five in every Montana zip code

any Montana child, up to age five, who is registered with the organization. A child may be registered at: imaginationlibrary. com.

HELENA — Advancing her initiatives as Montana’s first lady, Susan Gianforte recently announced the progress of her statewide expansion of the Imagination Library of Montana in partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The non-profit program boosts early childhood literacy by providing free high-quality, age-appropriate books to Montana children.

“It is exciting to see how Imagination Library continues to spread across Montana and inspire a love of reading in our state’s youngest readers,” First Lady Susan Gianforte said. “Our local partners have done a fantastic job helping families get enrolled and spreading the word that this

program is available to all Montana children up to age five. I look forward to seeing its continued growth and impact.”

Last June, the first lady joined Dolly Parton in announcing the statewide expansion of Imagination Library in Montana. Through the partnership, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library provides a free book each month to

Prior to launching the initiative, the program was only available in some Montana counties and approximately 9,500 Montana children were enrolled. Today, Imagination Library of Montana has 63 local program partners in all 56 counties serving nearly 24,000 of the state’s eligible children.

Montana is the sixteenth state to achieve statewide coverage of the program.

Since launching in 1995, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

has become the preeminent early childhood book-gifting program in the world. The flagship program of The Dollywood Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has gifted over 200 million free books in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, and The Republic of Ireland. This is achieved through funding shared by The Dollywood Foundation and Local Program Partners. The Imagination Library mails more than 2 million high-quality, age-appropriate books each month to enrolled children up to age five. Dolly envisioned creating a lifelong love of reading and inspiring children

Grant brings funds to Polson for summer kids’ meals

News from No Kid Hungry Montana

HELENA — For kids who receive school meals, the summer months can be the hungriest time of year. This year promises to be different, thanks to newly expanded guidelines that will give school districts and community organizations the flexibility to offer non-congregate meal service in many more rural communities. To support the rollout of this effort, No Kid Hungry Montana recently announced $75,000 in grants to help eight organizations across the state reach even more kids with summer meals.

For many children, free and reduced price school meals can

be a lifeline that ensures reliable access to nutrition during the school year. When schools close for the summer, however, these meals disappear, and families struggle from the strain on already-tight budgets. This can be particularly true for rural families.

In a recent No Kid Hungry survey of rural families, parents reported on the unique hardships they faced during the summer when school is out. More than half of rural families say they don’t have enough money for food during the summer. Over 80% spend more on groceries when their children are out of school for the summer–an average of $168 more each month.

Summer meal programs were designed to provide healthy meals during summer vacation but have historically only reached a fraction of the kids who need them due to barriers like transportation, fuel costs, extreme weather and parent’s work schedules. In rural areas, where kids often live many miles from their closest meal site, these challenges have been particularly stark.

“There’s long been a huge gap between the number of kids getting meals in the summertime and the kids who really need them - particularly in rural communities. New flexibilities for summer meals in rural communities means that no longer

to Dream More, Learn More, Care More and Be More.

The program has been widely researched, and results demonstrate its positive impact on early childhood development and literacy skills. Penguin Random House is the exclusive publisher for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library.

Boosting literacy to empower more Montana children and promoting and expanding access to STEM education, particularly for girls and students in our rural communities, are the first lady’s chief initiatives. For more information, or to register a child, please visit: imaginationlibrary.com.

has to be the case,” said Brianna Guerrero, No Kid Hungry Montana manager. “We’re excited to support these schools and community groups in offering summer meals in ways that work for their community - like allowing families to pick up multiple meals at a time or even offering home delivery.”

No Kid Hungry grant funding supports the adaptations needed to reach as many kids as possible with summer meals, including meal delivery, refrigeration, and transportation costs. Polson School District #23 received a grant.

No Kid Hungry is also helping families find summer meals near them through our Free Meals

Finder map and texting hotline. Parents and caregivers can text the word “FOOD” (or “COMIDA”) to 304-304 to find sites in their neighborhood.

About No Kid Hungry

No child should go hungry in America. But millions of kids in the United States live with hunger. No Kid Hungry is working to end childhood hunger by helping launch and improve programs that give all kids the healthy food they need to thrive. This is a problem we know how to solve. No Kid Hungry is a campaign of Share Our Strength, an organization committed to ending hunger and poverty. Join us at: NoKidHungry.org.

Montana First Lady Susan Gianforte

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

To apply you must submit an SKC application, resume and applicable transcripts to Human Resources, P.O. Box 70, Pablo, MT 59855. Toll free 877.752.6553, ext. 4985 Direct Dial 406.275.4985/4977

Nursing Faculty (10 months)

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Nursing Simulation Lab Instructor

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

Closing date: Open Until Filled

Assistant Director of Center for Prevention & Wellness

Salary Range: $41,648 - $43,448 DOEE

Closing Date: Tuesday, May 28, 2024; 4:00 pm MST

IT/Computer Science Faculty

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Custodian Part-time

Salary Range: $14.80/hr

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Health Promotion Specialist

Salary Range: $40,789 - $44,310 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Custodial Services Team Leader (2 positions)

Salary Range: $16.97/hr

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Accounting Technician II - Business Office

Salary Range: $15.23 - $15.67/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Tuesday, May 28, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Security Officer Part Time

Salary Range: $12.57 - $13.84/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

College & Career Readiness Coach - 1PT, 1FT

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

College & Career Readiness Mentor - 2PT, 1FT

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center-Assistant Teacher (9.5 months)

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

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

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Accounting Tech/Receptionist

Salary Range: $14.48 - $15.12/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Childcare Center Cook-Early Learning Center (9.5 months)

Salary Range: $15.65-$16.92/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Institutional Research Analyst

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

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

Elsie Brown

POLSON — Elsie Mae (Funk) Brown, age 95, passed away at her home in Polson on Feb. 6, 2024. She was born on Aug. 14, 1928, in Joplin, Montana, to Waldo and Verna (Sauer) Funk. She attended schools in Joplin. Elsie met Deane Brown in Whitefish while he was serving in the U.S. Navy. Deane and Elsie were married on Jan. 12, 1945. After Deane and Elsie were married, they moved to Eureka, where they owned and ran the Sophie Spring Ranch. They later sold the ranch to the Army Corps of Engineers for use for the Libby Dam.

Lake. Elsie later moved from Dayton to Polson, where she resided until her death.

Elsie is preceded in death by her husband, Deane; her parents; her daughter, Gayle Brueggeman; three brothers and three sisters.

to the family at: www. lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

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

Joseph Cullen

In March 1959, Deane and Elsie bought the Foote Ranch in Niarada. The Foote Ranch is now known as the Brown Ranch. Elsie and Deane worked side by side on the ranch until Deane’s death in 1986. At the time of Deane’s death, he and Elsie had been married for 43 years. Elsie remained on the ranch until it was sold in 1990. She then moved to Dayton where she enjoyed many years living in her home on Flathead

Elsie is survived by her sister, Dorothy Rollis of Post Falls, Idaho; her son, Calvin Brown (Lesli) of Linden, Tennesse; her longtime companion, Jim Jensen of Polson; her grandchildren, Ryan Brueggeman (Jennifer Clancy) of Polson; Crystal Brown (Russell Potts) of Arlee; Dawn Brown of Wenatchee, Washington; Jason Brown of Tennessee and Kyle Brueggeman (Elora) of Missoula; step-grandchildren, Nichole Nielsen of Missoula and Jessi Keaton of Linden, Tennessee; great-grandchildren, Tyler Potts (Veronica), Ashley Potts, Charles Brown, Lauren Walker, Brady Potts and Logan Potts as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Elsie requested cremation and that there be no services or viewing after her death. There will be a potluck Celebration of Life at the home of Bob Daily at 35448 Rocky Point Road, Polson, on Tuesday, June 25, starting at noon.

Interment will be at Glacier Memorial Gardens on June 26, at 11 a.m. Memories and condolences may be sent

AMARILLO, TEXAS

— Joseph Elden Cullen peacefully passed away on February 12, 2024, in Amarillo, Texas. He was born on Feb. 24, 1940, to Laurence ‘Tut’ and Edna Cullen in Ronan. He graduated from high school in 1958 and married Linda Heppner in Polson on Aug. 26, 1961. After high school, Joe joined the Army Reserves, attended college and Physical Therapy (PT) School. Joe worked for and managed the PT departments in hospitals in Billings, Montana; Ottumwa, Iowa; Dhahran, Saudi Arabia; Colorado Springs and Pueblo, Colorado; and Helena, Montana where he opened a PT private practice. His final hospital practice took him to Olney, Texas. Finishing his career, he provided PT home health in the Wichita Falls, Texas, area.

Christ Church and began to lead congregations in Olney and Archer City, Texas. Joe gave his life to Christ as a young dad, and he spent many hours learning and leading others in the way of the Lord the best way he knew. Joe never lost the hope of God’s promise of abundant and eternal life with Jesus for his life, family, and friends.

Joe obtained his ministerial lay pastor license through the Disciples of

Joe’s love of singing Barbershop music, fishing, camping, downhill skiing and travel were things he enjoyed. Graduations, weddings, births, holidays, and family events were other reasons for travel. As he ripened with age, Joe longed for the roots of his childhood home. His last visit to Montana was in 2021. Joe’s greatest challenge came in the 2000’s with the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease for Linda. Until her death in 2010, he remained faithful to her needs. Joe was blessed to find another to love and live with in his remaining years. LaDonna Mincey and Joe married on June 25, 2011. They travelled, enjoyed sports and their families’ events. Even as his mobility began to decline, LaDonna was a supportive caregiver in the journey of his failing health. They found joy in the simple things and hers was the last face he saw on this earth in Amarillo, Texas, where they had lived since 2018. Joe Cullen is survived

by his wife, LaDonna Mincey Cullen; sisters, Virginia Cullen Miller and Carol Cullen Bryant; brothers-in-law, Danny (Sue) Heppner and Floyd Parkey; sisters-in-law, Cathy (Gene) Jarvis and Tanna Avenius; children, Jodie (Steve) Cullen White, Laurie (Chelle Draper) Cullen, Tamara Cullen, Shawn (Rebecca) Cullen; and many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews and their families by blood and by marriage. His remains will be buried in Ronan Cemetery on July 3, 2024, at 11 a.m. The public is invited to attend.

Sally Cook

RONAN — Sally Deane Bailey Cook, born July 18, 1938, passed away May 19, 2024, at the age of 85, in Missoula, of natural causes.

Sally was the daughter of Art and Blanche (Noble) Bailey.

She grew up in Valley View. She shared her home with three older sisters and one younger brother. JoAnne Bailey Finch, being the only sibling living, resides in Polson. Sally loved being “the baby sister.” She attended grade school at

the Valley View School and attended high school in Polson.

Sally married Johny Cook Jr. October 16, 1955. After living in Las Vegas, Nevada, for a short time, they moved to Polson where they started their family. Their children: Rita (Jim) of Missoula, Johnny ‘Jody’ (Tracy) of Helena, Brian, (who passed Aug. of 2013), and BJ (Fred) of Ronan. Johny passed August of 2001.

Sally worked at Lucky Strike Lanes in Ronan for several years. She enjoyed cooking for everyone, visiting, and being a part of the alley family. When she got sick, she told her doctors that her only goal was to “bowl again.” Bowling was her social life.

Sally loved being a part of the Senior Center in Ronan. She always wanted to know what was to eat and how the members were doing.   Sally was a second “mom” to many children and families. She and Johny worked at the Mission Valley Receiving Center in Ronan for 17.5 years. No matter where Sally went, she knew everyone. People from the center would give her hugs, ask her how she was doing and remind her of how she had touched their lives.

There will be a celebration of her life on July 6, 2024, at the Valley View

see page 17

Elsie Brown

Joseph Cullen

Sally Cook

Obituaries

from page 16

Clubhouse, 40765 Valley View Road, Polson from noon to 4 p.m. The reading of her complete obituary will be at 1 p.m. Please bring your favorite dish, your favorite memory, pictures, and all the stories that you and Sally shared together. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation. com.

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

Marnee Kieckbush

VANCOUVER, WASHINGTON

— Marnee Kieckbush passed away in Vancouver, Washington on June 10, 2024. She was born on Oct. 19, 1932, in Helena. She lived in Ronan from 19821999 and co-owned the K-Klub in Pablo with her father and sister from 19821986. She was a huge Montana Griz fan. She then moved to Vancouver, WA., to be near her daughter.

UM Bio Station awarded $9.5M for ocean climate change science

From UM News Service

FLATHEAD LAKE — A new research project led by the University of Montana’s Flathead Lake Biological Station expands the impact of the station’s renowned expertise from mountain watersheds to ocean depths.

Dubbed SUBSEA – the Subtropical Underwater Biogeochemistry and Subsurface Export Alliance – the project is one of five global science and technology efforts selected by the Schmidt Sciences Ocean Biogeochemistry Virtual Institute, which aims to address gaps in ocean data and modeling efforts by improving the breadth of research and expanding capacity to understand ocean resources.

Led by Matthew Church, a FLBS aquatic microbial ecology professor, the SUBSEA research team will receive $9.5 million over the next five years to help refine details of ocean carbon cycling and ecosystem resilience. FLBS stream ecology Professor Bob Hall also will assist with the project.

“I’m most excited by the collaborative opportunities afforded by the Schmidt Sciences investment in our SUBSEA project,” Church said. “By bringing together an international team of scientists and cutting-edge tools, this project will allow us to explore how plankton growth in understudied regions of the oceans modifies global climate.”

The team is particularly interested in improving understanding of how nutrient cycling in the upper ocean impacts carbon dioxide storage in the deep sea. Church and his international collaborative team of scientists will focus on subtropical ocean gyres. Defined as large, circular currents propelled by wind and the Earth’s rotation, subtropical ocean gyres are some of the largest ecosystems on Earth. Algal production in these gyres consumes significant amounts of carbon dioxide, and sinking of these algal cells moves large quantities of carbon to the deep sea.

The SUBSEA project will examine how marine organisms in

the photic zone – the area from sea surface to about 200 meters below the surface – affect the gyres’ absorption and circulation of carbon dioxide from the North Pacific to the South Atlantic.

Started by Eric and Wendy Schmidt, Schmidt Sciences is bringing together 60 scientists from 11 countries through the five inaugural research projects selected by the OBVI program. The hope is that the research from SUBSEA and the four additional selected projects will provide clarity on how much carbon dioxide the ocean can hold and the resilience of marine ecosystems in a rapidly warming world.

“The ocean plays a powerful role in regulating Earth’s climate and acts as a vast repository for carbon and heat,” said Lexa Skrivanek, OBVI program lead at Schmidt Sciences. “Studies to date reveal that the ocean has absorbed and stored nearly one-third of the carbon dioxide that humans have emitted over the past century. The question of whether it can continue to do

so at the same rate is one of the most critical ones we face today.”

To this point, scientists have developed a broad understanding of how the ocean shapes climate. However, they lack a deeper knowledge of the processes that govern carbon cycling and storage in the ocean, connections between carbon and other elemental cycles, and the roles that marine microbes and animals play in shaping those relationships. Together, the five selected teams will make up a global research network and receive financial support from Schmidt Sciences and access to Schmidt Ocean Institute’s research vessel, the Falkor (too), a state-of-theart 110-meter global-class research vessel. They also will receive expert shipboard assistance to tackle the challenges associated with collecting large amounts of biological, chemical, geological and physical oceanography data. Through this research, the teams will develop accurate modeling across ocean systems to address ocean processes in climate projections and mitigation.

SCHMIDT OCEAN INSTITUTE PHOTO

An ocean swell rises in the in the Atlantic Ocean.

Administration announces funds to clean up legacy pollution

Funding will create good-paying jobs, catalyze economic revitalization in coal communities

News from the Dept. of the Interior

WASHINGTON — The

Department of the Interior announced on June 5 that nearly $725 million from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is available to 22 states and the Navajo Nation to create good-paying jobs and catalyze economic opportunity by reclaiming abandoned mine lands (AML). Montana is eligible for $4,598,840. This is the third allotment from the once-in-a-generation investment of $11.3 billion in AML funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which will help communities clean up dangerous environmental conditions and pollution caused by past coal mining in alignment with President Biden’s ambitious environmental justice agenda.  Communities once powered by the coal industry are now polluted by abandoned mine lands, which leach toxic discharge into lands and waterways, cause land subsidence and structural issues, and fuel underground mine fires. This funding will ensure

that coal communities are not left behind, but rather revitalized by the jobs created for displaced coal workers, economic opportunity, and clean air and water provided by these cleanup projects.   AML reclamation supports jobs in coal communities by investing in projects that close dangerous mine shafts, reclaim unstable slopes, improve water quality by treating acid mine drainage, and restore water supplies damaged by mining. AML projects also enable economic revitalization by reclaiming hazardous land for recreational facilities and other redevelopment uses, such as advanced manufacturing and renewable energy deployment. In accordance with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, states and Tribes are encouraged to prioritize projects that employ current and former employees of the coal industry.

““The Biden-Harris administration is committed to helping working families, often in rural and Tribal communities, who face hazardous pollution, toxic water levels, and land subsidence both during mining and long after coal companies have moved on,” said Secretary Deb Haaland. “Through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we are making historic investments to help revitalize local economies and support reclamation jobs that help put people to work in their communities, all while addressing environmental impacts from these legacy developments. These smart investments will build a cleaner, healthier and more just future for communities across the country.”   States are already using the more than $1.4 billion provided in the first two years from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

to plan and implement projects to protect homes and infrastructure from subsidence and landslides, create new recreation opportunities, and

The Biden-Harris administration is committed to helping working families, often in rural and Tribal communities, who face hazardous pollution, toxic water levels and land subsidence both during mining and long after coal companies have moved on.”

- Secretary Deb Haaland

clean up streams polluted with acid mine drainage. Overall funding for AML projects is expected to enable reclamation of the majority of current inventoried abandoned mine lands.

“This unprecedented funding secured by the President is already making a difference in coal communities through new jobs, safer communities, and a cleaner environment,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management Dr. Steve Feldgus. “The third year of this historic investment is going to help states continue to expand their cleanup efforts and start tackling projects on a scale that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago.”

This funding is a part of the Biden-Harris administration’s unprecedented investments in communities and workers to support an equitable transition to a sustainable economy and healthier environment after the closure of mines or power plants. This effort also advances the President’s Justice40 Initiative that sets a goal to deliver 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that have been historically marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Additionally, reclaiming abandoned coal mines is a pillar of the Biden-Harris administration’s Methane Action Plan, which includes historic efforts to reduce methane emissions—one of the biggest drivers of climate change—while creating good-paying jobs and promoting American innovation.

With today’s announcement, eligible states and Tribes can now apply for the formula-based funding allotments summarized in the table below. The notice of funding opportunity follows the release of final guidance for how to apply for this historic funding.

Applications for the FY 2024 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law AML funds must be submitted in GrantSolutions.

ST. IGNATIUS —

The Buffalo Run is part of three days of family-friendly fun at the St. Ignatius Good Old Days

Good Old Days is a long-standing weekend of family-oriented fun in scenic St. Ignatius, Montana. Highlights include local food, live music, a variety of games, and, of course, the Good Old Days parade. You won’t want to miss a minute.

The Buffalo Run hosts three racesa 1-mile walk/run, 4-mile run, and 7-mile run. All three races will start promptly at 8 a.m. on Main Street, in front of Gambles Hardware.

Awards will go to the fastest male and female of each race and age division. T-shirt supplies are limited, but we’ll do our best to provide the size you reserve.

Registration is open, so sign up now at: https://runsignup. com/Race/MT/SaintIgnatius/GoodOldDaysBuffaloRun. Don’t miss the early bird rates.

Thank you for your support of this event and, in turn, the St. Ignatius community. For more information, or if you have any questions, please contact Whitney Liegakos, St. Luke PR Manager, at 406-5285262 or WLiegakos@ StLukeHealthcare.org. Come join us at this fun event for all ages.

seniors

St. Ignatius

By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — The Senior Center would like to thank Julie and Mack McConnell for the beautiful flowers that are in the planter barrels around the south and east of our building.

SNAP-Ed is doing an “Eating Smart-Being Active” cooking class at the St. Ignatius Community Center starting Friday, June 21, and it runs for six weeks from 5-7:30 p.m. Those that attend the six classes will receive an Instant Pot and those on SNAP can earn Farmers Market coupons. Call 406-883-2865 to register.

If you would like a take-out

meal, please call 406-745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays and by 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Times of meals are listed below. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the center.

Menu: — Wednesday, June 19: 5:30 p.m. - Indian\tacos, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, shredded cheese, huckleberry dessert — Friday, June 21: noonfish, creamed peas, raspberries, biscuit, oatmeal cookies — Tuesday, June 25: noonbaked chicken, zucchini, pasta salad, cantaloupe, roll

Our St. Ignatius Senior Center is available to rent. If you are interested, call 406-745-4462 and leave a message. Gently Yoga is held on

R e a d y t o P l a y ?

Wednesdays from 1-2:15 p.m.

If you are interested call Bonnie Kiser at 406-253-0177. Her rates are five sessions for $60. Taiji exercise program take place on Mondays, June 3, 10, 17 and 24 at 1 p.m. Kory Gunderson is the instructor. For any question call Kory at 406361-0304. The charge is $12 a session.

If you like to do puzzles, there are free puzzles and books on the entryway table available for the taking.

Remember the Mission Valley Food Pantry can use dozen-sized egg cartons and volunteers.

Ronan

By Donna Daniels for the Valley Journal

RONAN — The Mission Valley Senior Center is located across from St. Luke’s Hospital. Any age is welcome to come enjoy our meals, you don’t have to be a senior citizen.

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

Our menu:

— Wednesday, June 19: soup, sandwiches, salad, dessert

— Friday, June 21: fried chicken, salad, dessert

— Monday, June 24: chicken alfredo, salad, dessert

Commodities will be distributed on July 17 at Mission West Food Enterprises, 407 Main St. in Ronan. This will be one-day only distribution from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. It will be drive-through, so please stay in your car.

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

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

Annual membership dues for 2024 are $10 per person and due now.

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

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

Everyone is welcome to join our meals no your age.

Child Checks are typically covered 100%

Wednesday, June 19

PWGA Ladies Invite

POLSON — The Polson Bay Golf Course will host the PWGA Ladies Invite on Wednesday, June 19. Email polsonbaygolfcourse@gmail.com for more information.

Free Glacier Park Entry

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK — In celebration of Juneteenth National Independence Day, entry fees will be waived at Glacier National Park.

Thursday, June 20

Summer Solstice

Sign up for Midnight Hoops Basketball Tournament

ARLEE — (Registration closes on June 19 and there is no late registration.) Team check-in takes place at 4:30 p.m. and the tournament takes place from 5 p.m.-midnight. The 3-on-3 tournament takes place at the Arlee Powwow Pavilion. The event is free for kids entering 3rd grade through 8th grade for the 2024-25 school year. There will be door prizes and the top four teams in each bracket will win prizes. There will be three brackets:

3 & 4 grade; 5 & 6 grade; and 7 & 8 grade. Teams are co-ed or all girls and must always include one girl per team. Register at any CSKT Fitness Center or go to: https:// FORMS.OFFICE. COM/R/07ZF0FR4. If you have questions, call Lindsey at 406-493-4425

Fishing

or Paul at 406-725-3525 X 5209.

Come for an ice-cream social

POLSON — POLSON — St. Joseph Assisted Living will host an open-house and ice-cream social on Thursday, June 20, from 1-3 p.m. Put this on your calendar. Come take a tour of our beautiful facility. Call 406-883-8970 for more information.

Dive into ‘Boat Day’ fun

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library continues its Summer Reading Program with the annual Boat Building Day event. Gary Teggeman, a local boat builder, will be there from 10-11 a.m. Come build

for

the strongest boat you can, and then we will sink it! The boat that holds the most booty before it sinks, wins.

Families First Presentation

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library continues its Summer Reading Program with a presentation from Families First from 10-11 a.m.

Donate books

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library is holding a Book Donation Day on Thursday, June 20. You are welcome to bring material donations today from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on those dates. There is a limit of two boxes at a time. Our

Friends of the Library have taken over management of our donation program and have set the third Thursday of each month as “Donation Day.” They added the extra day to give everyone the best selection for the Book Sale in June. Please refer to our Materials Donation Policy on our website for more information. Go to the “about us” tab to review library policies.

Arlee CDC hosts Beyond the Frame’ exhibit

ARLEE — The Arlee Community Development Corporation, 92555 US Hwy. 93, will host “Beyond the Frame,” a special exhibit of artwork created by local teen artists on Thursday, June 20, from

Flathead Lakers to meet

POLSON — Join us on the Summer Solstice for the Flathead Lakers annual meeting at the Barn at Finley Point. Social hour begins at 5 p.m. with drinks and appetizers; The program starts at 6 p.m. A Stewardship Award recipient will be recognized, Lakers updates and State of the Lake will be shared. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to participate in our silent auction, featuring a 1981 J-24 sailboat generously donated by a former member.

Free workshop offered

3:30-5:30 p.m. at the Arlee CDC. Everyone is invited to come and meet the artists, see their recent artwork, and enjoy some refreshments.

This event is sponsored by the Arlee CDC, the Missoula Art Museum, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Call 406-726-5550 for more information.

SPLASH at KwaTaqNuk

POLSON — At 5 p.m. join the Polson business community for SPLASH (Support Polson Late Afternoon Social Hour) at the KwaTaqNuk Resort, 49708 US Hwy. 93. Rub shoulders with other business professionals and enjoy a variety of food and beverage options.

RONAN — Mission West Community Development Partners will offer a free workshop titled “Storytelling with Images” on Wednesday, June 20, from 1-4 p.m. Learn how to use images to make your website and social media tell your story. We will look at example photos and your photos to pick out the parts of a photo that deliver your story and the parts that detract from your story. This hands-on workshop is available in-person and live through Zoom.

Go to: lccdc.ecenterdirect.com to register or contact Jennifer Beh at 406-676-5916.

Friday, June 21

Join Instant Pot cooking class

POLSON — Join this free 9-lesson Instant Pot cooking and nutrition class

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

A great blue heron looks

fish among the grasses of a marshy pond.

Calendar

from page 20

series by SNAP-ED to learn how to make healthy choices on a budget. Complete the series to earn your own free Instant Pot.

Call 406-883-2865 to sign up. This class includes childcare and will be held at Head Over Heels, 36004 Memory Lane, on Fridays, June 21-Aug. 23, (no class July 5), from 9-11 a.m

Saturday, June 22

Friends of Lake Mary Ronan invite all to community social

LAKE MARY RONAN — Friends of Lake Mary Ronan invite all to a community social to be held from 1 to 3 p.m. at Mountain Meadows Lodge, 51017 Lake Mary Ronan Road. FLMR would like to say thank you to the community, provide information and updates on the status of our current projects. Free hot dogs, chips, sides and water for all. Even a lake needs friends.

Free hamburger feed held in Big Arm

BIG ARM — From noon-2 p.m., the Polson Rural Fire Membership will host its annual free hamburger feed for the Polson community at the Big Arm Fire Station. Meet local firefighters and see some of the new equipment and fire trucks. Donations will be accepted.

Participate in ‘Pollinator Week’ program

POLSON — On Saturday, June 22, at 10:30 a.m. a Pollinator Week Program will be offered at the North Lake County Public Library. The Lake County Conservation District is hosting a 90-minute workshop. Learn to identify and track pollinators, their habitats and how to participate in local citizen science initiatives. This workshop will have a short lecture, hands-on learning with the tracking technology, followed by a pollinator walk. This event is open to all ages and backgrounds.

Enjoy ‘Music in the Missions’

ST. IGNATIUS — Music in the Missions in St. Ignatius starts at 5 p.m. We aim to create a sense of unity and purpose among community members by

coming together through music, food, and art. We hope to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable land management and wildlife conservation. Opening for Music in the Missions will be Kyle Hunter and The Mountain Standard from 5-6:30 p.m. Next up will be Paul Bryant and Kentucky Border from 7-8:30 p.m. For the finale, we will have The Tanner Laws Band from 9-10:30 p.m. There will be a corn hole tournament with a $500 first place prize, a $200 second place prize and a $50 third place prize. The entry fee is $50. Go to: musicinthemissions.com for more information.

Plains Wildhorse Shootout held

PLAINS — The Mission Valley 3-on-3 Wildhorse Shootout, held in conjunction with the Wildhorse Sports Association, takes place on Saturday June 22, at the Amundson Sports Complex. Divisions will include 1st grade through adult. Entry deadline is June 8 at 8 p.m. Entry fee is $160 (plus $5 transaction fee if paid online). Packet pickup is at 8:30 a.m. and games start at 9 a.m. If you have any questions, you can contact Erica Lawyer at 406-544-8493. No refunds will be given after brackets are posted.

Fun to be had at ‘Summer Solstice Brewfest’

RONAN — Join us at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 300 third Ave. NW, from 2-6 p.m., for the second annual Summer Solstice Brewfest. With a selection of 20+ brews, plus beverage vendors, loads of food trucks and great live music. Non-alcohol cover charge is $5, a summer solstice shirt is $20, and Summer Solstice Brewfest general admission is $40.

Go to All Traders Market

POLSON — All Traders Market will be held on the 4th Saturday of the month at the Red Lion Ridgewater Inn & Suites. Contact Rebecca Williams at: SaveTheDateEventsLLC23@gmail.com or 406849-1021 for more information.

Sunday, June 23

Safe Harbor brings circus, carnival to Ronan

RONAN — Come one, come all for

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Calendar

from page 21

lots of family fun. Safe Harbor is sponsoring a carnival from noon-4:30 p.m. and two circus performances, one at 2 p.m. and another at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 23. The activities will take place at the Lake County Fairgrounds. There will be high-flying aerialists, Golden Tabby Tigers, horses and more. For tickets or information call 406-676-0992. Ticket prices are: pre-sale adults - $13; pre-sale seniors & children 2-12 - $8; day of event adults - $16; day of event children 2-12 - $9; under age 2 – free.

Tuesday, June 25

Moms Connect goes to Aquatic Center

POLSON— The Moms Connect Wellness Series is a 5-week series, June 11-July 9, from 5-7 p.m. This free traveling wellness series focuses on different dimensions of health. Childcare and dinner are provided. Register at familiesfirstmt.org. On June 25 the meeting will be about fitness and meet at Mission Valley Aquatic Center. The MVA staff will teach water safety and you can stay for an open swim time.

Wednesday, June 26

Youth Page Turner’s Book Club to meet

POLSON — On Wednesday, June 26, at 3:30 p.m. a Page Turner’s Youth Book Club meeting will take place. For June, we are reading “Babe the Gallant Pig” by Dick King-Smith. Come into

the library to pick up your free copy of the book and then come to the Book Club on the 26th ready to talk about your favorite parts. We always have fun together.

Free HR workshop offered

RONAN — Mission West Community Development Partners is offering “Empower Your Business: HR Do’s and Don’ts” on June 26, from 9-11 a.m. Register at: https://lccdc.neoserra. com/conferences/795.

Led by HR expert, Cindy Carpenter, this workshop is designed to help small businesses gain their HR knowledge and resources to stay complaint and manage their workforce effectively. Topics include - Stay current with legal chances and best practices; Avoid mistakes in the interview process; Recognize red flags that lead to problems; Learn about resources provided by Heartland and Job Service. This is a free event.

Learn about advertising, merchandizing and publicity

RONAN — Mission West Community Development Partners is offering a free workshop titled “Advertising, merchandizing and publicity” on Wednesday, June 26 from 1-4 p.m. This is a handson, discussion workshop with loads of examples and case studies. Bring a laptop or a notepad.

Thursday, June 27

Learn about Geocaching

POLSON— The North Lake County Public

Library’s Summer Reading Program with host Stephanie Nordberg on Thursday, June 27, from 10-11 a.m. to talk about geocaching.

Visit Rock the Dock Concert

POLSON — Music starts at 7 p.m. at the KwaTaq Nuk Resort, 49708 US Highway 93 East, with “Sunlight Black” providing the tunes. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

Friday, June 28

Come to Polson Chamber Sporting Clays event

POLSON — The Polson Chamber of Commerce will hold their annual Sporting Clays event on Friday, June 28. An early bird discount is offered until June 1. There is room for 20 teams this year.

Mission Mountain Rodeo welcomes all

POLSON — The Polson Fairgrounds is the site for the 2024 Mission Mountain Rodeo held on Friday and Saturday, June 28, and 29.

Flathead Lake book, author on tap at library

POLSON — On July 1 at 6 p.m. a Butch Larcombe book talk, and book signing will take place. Larcombe is a local author. He will have a new book, “Historic Tales of Flathead Lake,” coming out in late June 2024. He will share about writing the book and answer your questions. He will also be selling and signing copies of his latest release. We have limited

space, so we are asking you to register for this program. Just call the library at 406-883-8225 or sign up to attend the next time you are here. We anticipate this will be a very popular program.

Check out Rock The Dock Concert

POLSON — Music starts at 7 p.m. at the KwaTaq Nuk Resort, 49708 US Highway 93 East, with “Kelley and Ben” providing the tunes. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

Take advantage of free entry at Glacier Park

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK — In celebration of National Public Lands Day, there will be no entry fee at Glacier National Park.

Monday, July 1

Arlee Celebration begins

ARLEE — The Arlee Celebration Powwow begins with Campers’ Day. Gates open at 9 a.m.

Attend Cheesy Open House

POLSON — Flathead Lake Cheese, 208 First Ave. E., will hold their annual Open House Week from July 1-7. On Monday, July 1, come by their shop, between 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Wednesday & Thursday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Friday & Saturday from 2-5 p.m.; & Sunday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Call 406-883-0343, for more information.

public meetings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Announcements

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Employment

Help wanted

FORESTRY TECHNICIAN (Fire/Fuels)

1 or more contract positions

Applicant must possess a high school diploma (or equivalent). At a minimum for Technician, two (2) seasons in fire/fuels related work. FFT2 qualified. Faller 3 (FAL3) qualified. Successful applicant is subject to annual medical examination and work capacity test for arduous positions. Successful applicant must pass both to meet the standards of the Technician position. Ability to successfully complete NWCG developmental training to include but not limited to S-131, S-290 and L-280. Ability to perform duties under stressful and adverse operating conditions, such as long work hours, heavy workloads, emergency situations, adverse working conditions and environmental conditions. Ability to communicate effectively and follow oral/written instructions.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees within a diverse workforce. Applicant must submit a completed Tribal application and relevant academic transcripts and training certificates to the Tribal Personnel Department, 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or visit the csktribes.org website for the application. Salary $16.14 hour. Closing date will be Tuesday, July 9, 2024 @ 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

ELDER SERVICES HOME VISITOR (3 POSITIONS)DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

The successful applicant is required to possess a current valid driver’s license and liability insurance. Three years of experience working with Native American communi-

ties and Tribal families. Must pass pre-hire drug testing and background checks including, drivers, criminal, elder abuse, child abuse and medical. Must obtain CPR/1St Aide Certification, HIPPA Certification, Hospice/ Bereavement training within first year of employment. All applicants must submit a completed Tribal employment application, copies of relevant academic transcripts and training certificates, current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. A favorable

determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required prior to your placement in this position. 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 $17.56 to $20.18 per hour with benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available on-line at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Monday, July 8, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

LEAD SECURITY OFFICER DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

The successful applicant is required to possess a high school diploma or GED and one & one half (1½) years of

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Help wanted

cont’d from pg. 24

supervisor experience. Must have two (2) to five (5) years’ experience as a security officer or a minimum of two (2) year’s work experience in law enforcement/security or a combination of training and experience where people skills, planning and coordination are required. Must be 21 years of age or older. Must have knowledge of local jurisdiction laws (Tribal, Federal, State, County) as well as DHRD’s internal controls, policies and procedures. No felony convictions within the past five (5) years. No misdemeanor convictions in the past year except minor traffic. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license for the duration of employment. Must not have had a misdemeanor conviction involving child abuse, a sexual offence, assault with a weapon, domestic abuse or violent crime against a person within the past five (5) years. Must not have had any record or history of drug abuse within the past five (5) years. Must not have any open CPS referrals with TSSD and no or /MT-DPHHS. Must not have had a DUI or reckless driving conviction within the past three (3) years. Must not have

been dismissed, or resigned from law enforcement work due to threat of disciplinary action that could have resulted in termination of employment, within the past two (2) years. All applicants must submit a completed Tribal employment application, copies of relevant academic transcripts and training certificates, current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION MAY RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed Background Investigation is required prior to your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $23.89 to $27.46 per hour with benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available on-line at csktribes. org. Closing date will be Thursday, June 27, 2024 at

5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

FAMILY ADVOCACY COORDINATOR (TIWAHE) CONTRACT POSITION DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Policy, Public Health, Family & Consumer Sciences Education, Social Work, or related field from an accredited college or university. A minimum of 2 years’ documented work experience in public policy matters which may include organizing activities. Familiar with the Violence Against Women Act (2005), the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (2013), the Indian Child Welfare Act, the BIA Financial Assistance and Social Services Program at 25 CFR Part 20, and Family Court procedures. Excellent public speaking and presentation skills. Energetic and committed, with a willingness and ability to work across multiple programs to ensure no barriers to success. Proficient in Microsoft Office programs. Ability to organize/maintain

detailed records; complete necessary paperwork and meet deadlines. Strong writing and oral communication skills. Knowledge of budget preparation, control, and management. This position is a testing designated position (TDP). Must pass a background investigation if hired, subject to a background check in accordance with Public Law 101-630. Must never have had a CPS substantiation nor been convicted of or plead guilty to a felony crime of domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, sexual offense or crime of violence. Must not have any involvement with a child or social service protection agency as a perpetrator, no alcohol, drug abuse or domestic violence charges within the past five years. Must not have resigned to avoid disciplinary action or have been dismissed from employment within the past 3 years. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. Position is a mandatory reporter of child abuse/neglect. All applicants must submit a complete Tribal employment application, copy of relevant academic transcripts and/or

training certificates, copy of current valid driver’s license, if enrolled in a Federally recognized Tribe other than CSKT, please submit proof & if claiming Veteran’s preference, submit a copy of the DD214 form. FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE ABOVE DOCUMENTATION MAY RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. It is good practice to include letters of reference, a cover letter or a resume as a personable supplement to the application packet. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed Background Investigation is required prior to being placed in this position. 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 $22.15 to $25.46 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

QUALITY ASSURANCE MANAGER – TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

St. Ignatius RE-ADVERTISED DUE TO SHORTAGE OF APPLICANTS

The successful applicant must be an experienced Registered Nurse and must possess a current Montana State R. N. license. A Bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration, or a similar field of study with

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classifieds

Help wanted

a strong analytical base. A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in a healthcare facility required. Must have valid Montana State driver’s license. Basic Life Support certification required within 30 days of hire. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, licensure, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted.

FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFI- CATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $35.31 - $40.59 per hour,

plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 6752700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@ cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. The closing date will be Tues., July 9, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

AIDE (Fire/Fuels) 1 OR MORE CONTRACT POSITIONS- FORESTRYDIVISION OF FIRE

Applicant must possess a high school diploma (or equivalent). Three (3) months of general work experience, which can be any work experience. i.e. mowing lawns, bucking hay, etc. to serve on a fuels, engine or monitoring crew. One (1) season of firefighting experience required to serve on the Helitack crew. Training required for the NWCG FFT2 and FAL3 position is not required for initial hire, but must be obtained within the established probation period. Successful applicant is subject to annual medical examination and work capacity test for arduous positions. Successful applicant must pass both to meet the standards of the Technician position. Ability to perform duties under stressful and adverse operating conditions, such as long work hours, heavy workloads, emergency situations, adverse

working and environmental conditions. Must possess the ability to verbally communicate sufficiently to work as a member of a team. Applicant must submit a completed Tribal application and relevant academic transcripts and training certificates to the Tribal Personnel Department, 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or visit the csktribes.org website for the application. Salary $15.82 per hour. Closing date will be Tuesday, July 9, 2024 @ 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

ASSISTANT COMPTROLLER OFFICE OF FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

The successful applicant is required to possess a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field or in the alternative, acceptable experience in finance/accounting. Prefer a minimum of 3 years’ accounting experience or experience in a related function. Interested applicants may obtain further information by requesting a copy of the full position description from the Personnel Department.

Puzzle Answers

(From page 23)

All applicants must submit a complete Tribal employment application, a copy of relevant academic transcripts and/or training certificates. If enrolled in a Federally recognized Tribe other than CSKT, please submit proof and if claiming Veterans’ preference, submit a copy of the DD214 form. FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE ABOVE DOCUMENTATION MAY RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. INCLUDE A LETTER OF REFERENCE, COVER LETTER OR RESUME AS A PERSONABLE SUPPLEMENT TO THE APPLICATION

PACKET. All applicants must submit a completed Tribal Employment Application, copy of academic transcripts, current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a Federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 Form 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 Tribe, must pass pre-hire drug testing and complete a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range is $30.58 to $35.15 per hour plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-

675-2700, Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org

Closing date is Mon., July 8, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

ELDER SERVICES CHORE WORKER

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

The successful applicant is required to possess a high school diploma or a GED/ Hi-SET. College courses preferred. Knowledge of maintenance & repair methods used in maintaining households. Knowledge using all types of hand & power tools (lawn mowers, weed eaters, shovels, chainsaw, axe, and splitters). Knowledge of construction safety, contractor practices & procedures as well as handling a chainsaw. Must have a current driver’s license. All applicants must submit a completed Tribal employment application, copies of relevant academic transcripts and training certificates, current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe and if

claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. A favorable determination resulting from a completed Background Investigation is required prior to your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $15.02 to $17.27 per hour with benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available on-line at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Monday, July 8, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

see page 27

FOSTER CARE LICENSOR CONTRACT POSITION

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology or related field or four (4) year’s working experience with vulnerable populations. Position must pass suitability and character reference check and finger printing as required by the Indian Child and Family Violence Protection Act — PL 101-630. Position is required to sign a confidentiality agreement on at least an annual basis and to observe and uphold professional levels of communication protocols. This position is subject to a background check in accordance with Public Law 101-630, 25 USC Section 3201 and Public Law 101-647, 42 USC Section 13031. The background check also includes child protection service checks and driving record checks. This position is a mandatory reporter of child abuse and neglect situations. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming

veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted to the Tribal Personnel Department. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. 1043 for an application. Tribal applications are also available on-line at csktribes.org. The salary range is $20.00 to $22.99 per hour, plus benefits. Closing date will be Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Farm/Ranch

Animals

When veterinary care is unavailable or unaffordable, ask for Happy Jack® animal healthcare products for cats, dogs, & horses. At Tractor Supply® (www. happyjackinc.com).

Miscellaneous

Pets & Supplies

Beautiful purebred Irish Wolfhound puppies 15 weeks. Excellent compan-

ions, hunters, very protective. See puppies.com Wolf Creek 406-936-9633 To Qualified homes By Appointment Only 1800.00. Jim

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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

call HUD Toll-free at 1-800669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

Legals

Legals

324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864

Telephone: (406) 676-4470

Attorney for Personal Representative bill@fgwilliamslaw.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RONDA LYNN NOLAND, Deceased.

CAUSE NO. DP-24-37 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will be forever barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, must either be mailed to CAN-

DY L. NOLAND FARONI , the Personal Repre- sentative, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 5th day of June, 2024.

/s/ Candy L. Noland-Faroni CANDY L. NOLAND-FARONI, Personal Representative

June 12, 19 and 26, 2024 MNAXLP

Deadline is Friday at Noon

$7 for the first 15 words, 25¢ for each additional word.

$1 fee for bold

$1 fee for box/border

$2 fee for color box email to: vjmail@valleyjournal.net

William P. Williams IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC