09-13-23 issue

Spay/neuter clinic provides foundation for healing

By Summer Goddard / Valley Journal

PABLO — Nearly 200 cats and dogs were spayed and neutered last weekend during a two-

day event sponsored by Arlee Rehabilitation Center’s Spay/ Neuter Taskforce. Held in the Joe McDonald gym at Salish Kootenai College,

ARC volunteers paired up with veterinarians and vet techs from Spay Montana to sterilize as many animals as they could in a short window of time. Three

teams – consisting of a veterinarian and a technician – were assisted by 50 volunteers who in see page 2

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Spay Montana veterinarian Nancy Belk spays a young female dog named Cautious while ARC volunteer Brianna Walker assists. Belk also took the opportunity to correct a herniated umbilical cord.

total, fixed 138 cats and 60 dogs.

Founded in 2019, ARC’s mission is to facilitate mutual healing between humans and animals on the Flathead Indian Reservation. ARC’s spay/neuter task force is part of a three-pronged approach to fulfill this mission.

“The purpose is to bring healing to trauma victims in our community,” explained ARC Executive Director Filip Panusz. “Trauma victims is an inclusive term –both people and animals. We are all caught up in the same challenges. The same traumas.”

Overpopulation of cats and dogs causes trauma for both people and animals. Trauma for animals when there’s too many of them to care for often involves injury to the animals. When they’re left to roam, cats and dogs can be hit by cars, starve, contract illness or even be shot.

There have been “quite a few” cases this year of dogs being shot Panusz said. Parvo, an illness that spreads rapidly in puppies, has been another big problem in the area. “It’s spreading like crazy,” he said, “and people don’t understand how it spreads.” Often fatal, parvo is “emotionally gut wrenching and physically

hard” for people. “Sure, this involves animals, but ultimately at the heart of it all, this is about people,” he said.

Panusz maintains that getting to the root of trauma in order to prevent it from continuing is how healing begins. This is why the spay/neuter taskforce’s work is so critical, “We’re doing the spay/neuter clinic because if we don’t all of our other work is undermined … If we could get the population under control we could put a dent in all of that trauma.”

Through another large event they put on in April and ongoing weekly efforts, ARC’s spay/ neuter taskforce has fixed about 450 total animals year to date. The organization continually works through waitlists for spay/neuter services as they are able to. Though free to the community,

large spay/neuter clinics are an expensive undertaking. ARC paid a “solid $10,000 or more” to put on last weekend’s event. The value to the community, Panusz said, is well surpassed by the cost. He estimates the monetary value of services provided to be approximately $50,000 and adds that there are human value benefits as well. Though they provide some of the same services, such as rescue and holding of animals, Panusz emphasizes that ARC is not an animal

rescue or shelter.

“We do some of the same things, but with a broader framework – a different philosophy and purpose behind it,” he said. “The purpose is healing.”

In order to fully realize their mission, ARC is currently working with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to acquire land, 20 to 50 acres in the north end of the Jocko Valley, upon which to develop a healing site. The healing site will have the capacity to house both animals and

people. A teepee village and tiny homes will be developed alongside fenced areas and corrals for animals. There will be therapy units for people suffering through trauma who can benefit from quiet time spent with animals – mostly dogs and cats, but also horses.

With a goal to get a lease signed by the end of the year, Panusz said he hopes to groundwork on the healing site in early spring.

ARC’s two other programs – the Reservation

Canine Healing Experiment and Paws on the Ground will be able to grow once the healing site is complete.

Until permanent facilities are developed, “Pawsitively Healing Summer Camps” are currently the only component of the Reservation Healing Experiment that’s up and running.

Designed for children ages 8 to 13, the camps focus on building social and emotional resilience in at-risk youth through

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Bob Cornelius, DVM, spays six week old kitten “Cauldron” and “Broomstick” who were discovered under a home someone recently moved into. Left: after being spayed, “Kya,” patiently waits with her owner in the check out line.

“Sure, this involves animals, but ultimately at the heart of it all, this is about people.”

FILIP PANUSZ, ARLEE REHABILITATION CENTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

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For general inquiries: call 406-676-8989, email summer@valleyjournal.net, or send mail correspondence to P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT 59864. Copyright 2023, the Valley Journal. All rights reserved. Reproduction, reuse or transmittal in any form or by any means is prohibited without written permission of the Valley Journal.

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO Mission Mountains

George Simpson sworn in as new Polson police chief

By Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

POLSON –– Longtime Polson police officer George Simpson was sworn in as the new police chief at the Sept. 6 Polson City Commission meeting.

District Court Judge Deborah Kim Christopher welcomed the new chief by saying, “He is grounded in the value system and tradition of hard work.”

Simpson took the role as acting police chief in April of 2023 after his predecessor retired. The council sifted through 20 other applicants in that time from a national search before se-

lecting Simpson for the job.  Simpson’s experience includes a degree from the FBI Executive Command College, nine years of service with the Navy and law enforcement work in two sheriff’s departments as well as history with the Polson Police Department. Simpson has been with the Polson Police Department for eight years and has served as captain and sergeant.

Polson Mayor Eric Huffine switched gears after the police chief signed the oath and said two grant requests would be considered that had been presented by Susan Hartman and Carol

Lynn Lapotka. The grants revolved around the modification of the old city sewer lines going from their businesses on Main Street. They said the current lines were spliced together and back up all the time. They proposed that the lines be torn out and replaced with two separate lines. The proposal was approved.

The General Mill, Permissive Medical Mill and the Municipal Services levies on the agenda were also all approved. “This basically just authorizes us to be able to collect property taxes per state code,” commented city commissioner Jake Holley.

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO

District Court Judge Deborah Kim Christopher, right, congratulates Polson’s new police chief, George Simpson.

MSU invites high-school students to get a taste of engineering and computer science

From MSU News Service

BOZEMAN — Montana State University is once again offering a unique opportunity for high school students from around the state to get a taste of what it’s like to pursue a degree in engineering or computer science.

The annual Shadow Day will be held Thursday, Oct. 19. The event pairs visiting students with MSU engineering and computer science majors for a day of classes and labs, fun activities, informational sessions, tours of the college’s facilities and more. Shadow Day is free and is open to high school students in their sophomore to senior years.

The event can be particularly impactful for students from rural

spay/neuter

Montana towns who might have limited exposure to engineering and computer science in their

schools and are less certain to consider studying in these fields, according to Jennifer Clark, event

really good job. Each year is going to get better and better.”

from page 2

activities that cultivate empathy, stress management, self-esteem, and improved communication and relationships.

“This year’s camp was the best so far,” Panusz said. In its third year, the summer camp hosted 25 children, all who had an experience with trauma. The children got to spend time with dogs, horses, other animals, mental health professionals and a crew of six counselors. Panusz is proud of how the camp is growing, “I feel like we did a

“Paws on the Ground,” ARC’s third program, offers emergency rescue, intervention, and support for canines and their caretakers. Already in place via the dynamic network of ARC volunteers, rescue and holding efforts will benefit from the healing site’s centralized headquarters. Ultimately, Panusz envisions further partnership with the county and tribes to provide animal/human crisis support.

Supported entirely by private donations and grants, Panusz sees business sponsorships as a

organizer and assistant dean for student success and retention in MSU’s Norm Asbjornson Col-

a potential growth area to stabilize operational funds. “Every $1,000 or $5,000 that a larger business contributes because they believe in what we’re doing helps us continue to function,” he said.

For more information about ARC visit: https://k9arc.org/ or the organization’s Facebook page.

“Maverick” is comforted by his owner, Jane Bohn, as he looks toward his best buddy - a golden retriever named “Jake” - who was taking a bit longer to come out of sedation.

lege of Engineering.

“What we see is that kids in these communities are just as excited

about engineering and computer science as anyone else. They just need to have the experience for themselves,” Clark said. “They have to believe that they can be a college student in these majors.”

This year, participants will also have the option of shadowing students in the U.S. Army and Air Force Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, or ROTC programs. The engineering college recently launched a NACOE-ROTC Community that supports academic the success, leadership development and resiliency of student cadets capable of becoming the world’s best leaders, Clark said.

For more information and to register, visit coe. montana.edu/shadow The deadline for registration is Sept. 29.

COURTESY PHOTO

Shadow Day on Oct. 19 will pair visitors with MSU engineering and computer science majors for classes and labs, fun activities, informational sessions and more.

obituaries

Gretchen Baker

RONAN — Gretchen

Ann Daley Baker was born on Aug. 28, 1928, at Mrs. Culbertson’s Birthing

Home in Kalispell, to Glen and Pauline Daley of Rollins. She passed into the loving arms of Jesus on Aug. 31, 2023, at the age of 95.

Gretchen grew up in Rollins with her younger sisters, Lois and Glenda. The Daley girls had many

adventures with the Daley and Vinson cousins.

Gretchen attended elementary school in Rollins and in 1946 she graduated from Polson High School. Education was important to Gretchen; she attended Montana State College in Bozeman and would later enjoy telling stories of her time there.

Gretchen returned home to the Rollins area where she was reconnected with her childhood friend Mury Baker. Gretchen and Mury were married in 1951 and they started their family in nearby Proctor. In 1956, they purchased a farm that would become the Baker Dairy and relocated the family west of Ronan to

the Round Butte Community.

Gretchen was an active farm wife assisting in all the chores from stacking hay and delivering lambs and calves to gardening and milking cows. She prepared many a meal with her loving hands for the haying and shearing crews.

Gretchen was an active member of the local Sew & So Woman’s Club and spent many hours with the ladies crafting quilts to raffle for donations to worthy causes. Gretchen was a member of the Ronan and Mission Valley United Methodist Church for decades, where she sang in the choir for as long as she was able.

Gretchen spent the last eight and one-half years of her life as an active resident of St. Luke Extended Care Facility where she was very social and loved by residents and staff alike.

Gretchen was preceded in death by her husband, Mury; two sons, Glen and Jack; and sister Lois Buck. Her son, Jack, was a casualty of the Vietnam conflict making her a Gold Star mother. She participated in many Veterans Day remembrances.

Gretchen is survived by three children, Barry Baker (Shirley) of Ronan, Laurie Boyd (Greg) of Missoula and Jeanine Simons (Allen) of Seeley Lake; five grandchildren, Wade Bak-

er, Kristy Harwell, Daniel Smith, Matthew Baker, and Joey Boyd; and three great-grandchildren, Myles Harwell, Nora Harwell, and Leo Boyd; as well as nieces and nephews.

Services are planned for Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at 11 a.m. at the Mission Valley United Methodist Church on Post Creek Hill. In lieu of flowers, family requests memorials to St. Luke Foundation or a charity of the donor’s choice. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www. shriderthompson.com.

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

Ronan-North Project update

News from Sloan Stinson Big Sky Public Relations

RONAN — Next week, the MDT and Riverside Contracting Inc. crews will continue placing topsoil in preparation for seeding and landscaping. Traffic lane closures may be necessary where work is underway. Crews also plan to finish installing cattle guards, begin installing streetlight foundations, and continue project area clean-up. All work is dependent on weather. Next week, crews will be onsite Monday, Sept. 11, - Friday, Sept. 15, from 7 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Slow down, follow all traffic control. and watch for workers and equipment.

Gretchen Baker

Stories by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal

Ronan man admits to assault on peace officer

A Ronan man admitted to assaulting a law enforcement officer and damaging a patrol car. Leroy Francis Toupe, 41, entered a plea of guilty to the amended charge of misdemeanor assault on a peace officer and felony criminal mischief at District Court in Polson on Sept. 7. The plea was entered as part of an agreement that

amended felony assault on a peace officer to a misdemeanor and dismisses one count of misdemeanor resisting arrest.

According to court records, on April 20, Ronan Police responded to a report of a fight in progress in front of a tavern in Ronan. As police were attempting to break up the fight, Toupe kicked one of the officers in the groin causing pain. Toupe also resisted being placed in the officer’s patrol unit. While being transported to the Lake County jail, Toupe caused an estimated $3,420.50 in damages

briefsMission Valley Children’s Choir to begin again

News from Mission Valley Children’s Choir

RONAN — The Mission Valley Children’s Choir will begin its 8th year on Tuesday, Oct. 3 at the Faith Lutheran Church, 406 5th Ave. SW in Ronan. Refreshments and “together time” begin at 3:40 p.m., with rehearsals held from 4 to 5 p.m. every Tuesday. The choir is open to children from the Mission Valley

to the patrol car.

Prosecutor Brendan McQuillan with the Lake County Attorney’s office says the plea agreement calls for a joint recommendation of a commitment of five years with either the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services or the Department of Corrections pending the outcome of a court-ordered mental health evaluation.

Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher set sentencing for Oct. 18. Toupe remains in the Lake County Jail with bond set at $25,000.

St. Ignatius man charged with possession after allegedly leaving meth in health clinic

A St. Ignatius man is accused of leaving a baggie of methamphetamine in the waiting room of a health clinic. Duane Joseph Pierre Jr. 44, entered a plea of not guilty at District Courtin Polson on Sept. 7 to felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs.

According to court records, on April 12, Pierre had visited a health clinic in Arlee. He left his wallet in the seat cushion of a sofa in the wait -

in grades 2-6. Choir directors are Mrs. Cathy Gillhouse and Wendy Sanders. Participation is free of charge.

Gillhouse will pick up the children who attend K. William Harvey and bring them to the church. They will meet at the flagpole in front of the school.

It is the director’s goal to expose the children to many different styles of music throughout the year, ranging from multicultural, spirituals, folk songs, show tunes, patriotic, sacred and seasonal.

Gillhouse is the former

Ronan School choir teacher and director of the Ronan Show Choir. She taught music for 41 years. She has played harp for the University of Montana, and has been in many Port Polson Players productions. She is the new director of the Mission Valley Choral Society.

Gillhouse and Sanders are both very excited about directing the choir for its 8th year. They hope it continues to be a fun and educational activity for Mission Valley children.

Contact Gillhouse at

ing room. The wallet allegedly contained a baggie of methamphetamine, which was turned over to law enforcement. After Pierre attended his appointment at the clinic, he returned to gather his wallet. He provided the staff with a description of the wallet, and it was returned to him.

Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher set a trial date of Jan. 8, and Pierre remains at liberty.

406-207-3032 or gill4748@ hotmail.com , for more information.

Lights Under the Big Sky seeks volunteers

News from Friends of the Fairgrounds

RONAN — Friends of the Fairgrounds announces an open organizational planning meeting for Lights Under the Big Sky on Tuesday, Sept. 26 at the Community Center in

Ronan at 7 p.m.

The Lights Under the Big Sky event has been held for 6 years and has become a popular Community event drawing visitors from all over Western Montana.

The core group of volunteers that have put on this event is now too small to manage the growth the event has experienced.

Friends of the Fairgrounds is currently seeking volunteers to help set up and dismantle the venue for the event.

For more information, call Patty at 406-676-4925.

Leroy Toupe

JEFF SMITH PHOTO Duane Joseph Pierre Jr.

valley views Oppenheimer’s Truth

After the Japanese surrender in 1945, Oppenheimer saw immediately that any nation with adequate resources would be eventually able to build a weapon, and that something as gargantuan as an H-bomb had no possible military function. It could only be a mechanism for genocide.

As he tried to use his immense stature to positively influence nuclear policy, he was quickly steamrolled by McCarthyism and national overconfidence. The Christopher Nolan film dramatizes Truman’s smug certainty that the U.S. had a monopoly on the bomb, including the soon to be built H-bomb. Almost immediately spies spirited the technical knowledge for both fission and thermonuclear weapons to the Soviets. The U.S. monopoly dissolved, and the arms race Oppenheimer feared had begun.

In 1959 my Princeton roommate and I were pressed into service in an odd effort to provide sufficient bodies for a birthday party for one of the Oppenheimer children.

Becoming aware of our interest in art, Oppenheimer invited us

into a small windowless room to show off a radiant Van Gogh, one of the late paintings of the fields outside the asylum of St. Remy.

Was it possible that this soft-spoken reed of a man with melancholy eyes was the legendary force that had corralled a vast and fractious team of scientific egos into building (in one of the all-time great euphemisms) a world-ending “gadget”?

The birthday ended sadly. Oppenheimer’s wife Kitty, alcoholically blurry and drink in hand, descended from upstairs into the entryway as we were departing. “What the hell are you staring at?” she said to me, only she didn’t say “hell.” Hell was what the Washington establishment had visited upon her husband by removing his security clearance as the price for his misgivings about what he had wrought, including his refusal to fully assent to the H-bomb project. Kitty had been ravaged alongside him.

The  biography  on which the film is based quotes a section of an essay Oppenheimer published in the New York Times on June 9, 1946 laying out his ideas for the control of nucle -

ar weapons:

“[Our plan] proposes that in the field of atomic energy there be set up a world government. That in this field there be a renunciation of sovereignty. That in this field there be no legal veto power. That in this field there be international law.”

Idealistic? Perhaps. But if anyone then could have peered down the time stream, they might have given it a shot, to avoid what Oppenheimer knew loomed ahead. What do we see ahead of us? An accelerating drift toward a twin nuclear/ecological waterfall, the avoidance of which requires a spirit of cooperation equaling that of Oppenheimer’s team at Los Alamos. Were he alive today, he would be appalled by just how many nuclear weapons had been built by the early 1980s. But he would be happy that arms control treaties had reduced their numbers. He would be relieved that so far they have not been used on people again. He would rejoice in the United Nations Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. And surely he would be over the moon about the success of the Webb telescope, a multinational scientific feat as

positive as the bomb was negative.

Insufficiently acknowledged by sovereign powers, both authoritarian and democratic, nuclear and non-nuclear, is the fact that sovereignty has already eroded far more than it ever would have been through any international agreement to renounce nuclear weapons. Sovereignty is an administrative necessity that protects national identity, sometimes existentially (e.g., Ukraine does not belong to Putin), but is now increasingly transcended by the reality that we live on one small planet facing challenges that can only be solved transnationally.

Specific to weapons and war, sovereignty is growing more and more shaky in the context of inadvertent computer and human error. Our security depends upon the professionalism of the Russian military, and vice versa. So too with all the nuclear powers, even as they spend vast sums to renew their nuclear weapons. No expert or general, however tactically brilliant, would be in full control of a slide into the kind of catastrophe that nearly occurred during the Cuban crisis of 1962,

and could happen again in a conflict with China over Taiwan or Putin v NATO on Ukraine.

Even on the level of conventional war, Mr. Putin is discovering he will have to destroy Ukraine in order to “save” it. Let’s pray that he understands that escalating to nukes won’t help him.

Our distracted political culture in the U.S. does not encourage dialogue around such difficult issues. The popularity of Nolan’s film is an opportunity for citizens to ask probing questions of the presidential candidates that spur fresh thinking on nuclear policy. For example, would Former Secretary of Defense William Perry’s idea of standing down our entire aging fleet of land-based ICBMs be destabilizing “appeasement” of Russia and China, or a unilateral initiative that could elicit further positive responses?

The anguish of Robert Oppenheimer, who unleashed destruction beyond measure and then tried his best to stop its further spread, reminds us that America bears special responsibility for creating the kind of world he hoped for, where the nuclear curse is finally lifted.

LETTER POLICY

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

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

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

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

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

Winslow Myers, syndicated by PeaceVoice, is the author of “Living Beyond War: A Citizen’s Guide” and serves on the Advisory Board of the War Prevention Initiative.

Learning with the littles

Ijust finished a visit with my littles, aka grands. They are five dollars, nearly three dollars and 25 cents, if we are counting in years.

It was a giggly, playful, cuddly, I’m not hungry, I’m so hungry, I’m not tired, I just fell asleep sitting up, I don’t have to go, I have to go real bad, colorful. craft-filled, hug-filled, love-filled, sand-filled, sticky, spillful, wonderful set of days.

everything we could with frosting and sprinkles (because why not?).

Slices of Life

Jill Pertler Syndicated columnist

We made bouncy balls (fail). We hunted frogs. We looked for fish in the water. We fished with magnets on the living room floor. We painted rocks and sprinkled them with glitter. We picked flowers. We tended my garden and discovered that we didn’t like eating pea pods. (So much for that theory.)

the swing set. Sometimes we walked down to the lake and before you knew it, we were all in – the water, that is –because we couldn’t stop ourselves.

At night we played games. One involved jelly beans and tasting them. If you were five or younger your could spit the yucky ones into a bowl. But if your were an uncle you had to eat them. This fact was hilarious, especially if you were less than six. We asked questions. So many, many questions.

a puzzle? When is it my turn to pull the wagon? I want to pull the wagon! Is it my turn? When will it be my turn?

But sometimes, my littles had answers of their own, and profound answers at that.

When we were making muffins, someone was overenthusiastic when stirring and some of the batter spilled onto the countertop and floor.

No big deal, but I must have sighed when wiping up the mess because little miss five dollar said:

my. We all make mistakes.”

I’m so glad her parents have taught her this. That is it okay to make mistakes and to know this is normal and okay and a part of learning and growing. That without mistakes we’d be boring, stagnant beings. That it is okay to own your mistakes because that is an everyday part of life. That mistakes are inevitable, but not terrible. Never terrible. Spilling things is a normal part of life.

of all kinds. My littles were here for a brief visit. I wish it could have been longer because in our short times together, we share love and hugs and cuddles.

But we also share knowledge.

I only hope I am able and blessed to teach them as much as they teach me.

Spills and all.

We swam in the lake and rode in the boat. We splashed our toes at the beach. We visited the candy store and paid all by ourselves (with Grammy’s dollars). We made muffins stuffed with peanut butter cups - not necessarily recommended. We coated grapes with sugar and Kool-Aid. We topped

We found apples on the ground and made fritters the next morning. Did I mention sprinkles?

We pulled the wagon because it made us feel strong, and strong is a good thing to be. We drank lots of water to stay hydrated. We took walks after dinner while dancing, singing and hunting for hidden treasures in the sand by

When you are five and nearly three, the world hosts many questions. It is a privilege for me to answer them. Why is the water wet? Do the fish feel wet in the water? When the eagles catch a mama fish, what happens to her babies? Where do the turtles go in the winter? Can I help stir? Can my new frog live in your cabin? Can we do

“We are little. It was only a mistake, Gram -

The sooner we understand this, the better, because life is most certainly piled with spills

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.

Democracy means listening to people

Democracy is about listening to people. To hear from Montanans, state Democrats this summer and fall are traveling across the state, holding well-publicized, public meetings to receive input directly from citizens about how their government can better serve them and help create opportunity for their families and businesses.

Montanans deserve the chance to meet their citizen legislators face-to-face to discuss issues important to them, their families, and their communities. Our state has a long, important tradition of elected officials meeting with any and all of their constituents to hear their concerns and ideas.

That’s why Montana Democrats have already held public listening meetings in Great Falls, Belgrade, and the Fort Peck res-

letters

Read ‘Declaration of a Global Ethic’ Editor,

I was thrilled to read the article on the 2023 Parliament of World Religions in your Sept. 6 issue. I was fortunate to attend this gathering in Chicago this year, as well as the 2018 Parliament in Toronto. The work being done year round, across the globe, by communities and by the leaders of world religions to address critical issues we face today is encouraging and meaningful. I come away from these gatherings inspired and hopeful. Our news outlets cover the disintegration of structures for the most part

ervation. We had great turnout at these events and are delighted that people came with so many great questions and suggestions. We plan to visit more communities in every part of the state. To make sure Montanans can participate, we advertise our meetings in advance and hope folks of every political stripe will be able to attend.

Legislative Notes

Deep down, we all share similar hopes and dreams: to lead a fulfilled life, care for our families, and leave a better life to the next generation. Unfortunately, too many legislators and the current governor seem far more concerned with helping big corporations and the ultra-wealthy rather than hard working folks and retirees.

from across the state, we’ll take what we’ve learned and publicly release the ideas as policy priorities for future elections and legislatures.

We’re already hearing clear messages from Montana citizens. Rather than showy gimmicks or too-clever proposals, they want to talk about direct, straight-up ideas that focus on Montanans, will help their families, and create good-paying jobs.

future for Montana, and we want to hear from you. So please join us at an upcoming meeting—and if you can’t make a meeting, get in touch to let us know what’s on your mind by dropping us a note with your comments, suggestions, and concerns at listeningtour@ montanademocrats.org

Traveling across the state to listen to folks is part of our effort to get back to the basics of democracy and representative government: putting Montanans first.

It’s time to change that and put the creativity and ideas of fellow Montanans to work for the benefit of our communities. After hearing from Montanans

We share these priorities. Whether it’s taking care of families with a loved one in a nursing home, making sure taxes are fair and don’t favor the wealthy, or respecting an individual’s dignity, freedom, and privacy—these principles and ideas are essential if Montana is going to remain a great place to live and work.

Together, we can make a better

Montana values helped guide our past and they should continue to illuminate our future. By visiting communities throughout the state, listening to people, and showing them respect, we look forward to working with you to help build a better tomorrow that puts Montanans first.

Sen. Pat Flowers (D-Belgrade) is the Montana Senate Democratic Leader and Rep. Mary Caferro (D-Helena) is Vice-Chair of the House Appropriations Committee.

and rarely, if ever, the progress being made on the ground community by community to address these issues and create a new way of being together. I was reminded in some of the sessions of the ways in which interfaith partnerships bring about important change in communities. The Missoula Interfaith organization also engages in these ways. Partnering with other community organizations they address homelessness, climate change and other important issues. Hans Kung, an important Catholic theologian, was instrumental in creating the first Declaration of a Global Ethic at the 1993 Parliament and is responsible for the quote that “there will be no

peace among the nations without peace among the religions. There will be no peace among the religions without dialogue among the religions”. The Declaration of a Global Ethic is a living document guiding the Parliament of World Religions. At the 2018 Parliament a new section on climate change was added and adopted. If you have a chance please read the declaration. If you care about community health and vitality and peace and security for all people, I think you will find it encouraging and will want to add your efforts to it’s achievement.

Donna Mollica Arlee

Be a light for peace, harmony

Editor, Trump’s presidency and post-presidency’s personal motivations have opened and encouraged a most interesting example of “human nature in action.” He has attracted a “base of believers” harboring his same mental attitudes of anger, fear, attack, and blaming others for your problems. This has thoroughly affected our nation’s democracy because many present Republican legislators are very fearful of Trump. They fear that some of Trumps “base” will spring into deadly personal action if they speak out against Trump.

This period in our nation is certainly a critical test for the continuation as a democratic system of government. Our nation depends upon the power of the voting public. Right now our nation needs each of us, individually, to choose “right from wrong” in our thinking, speaking out, and voting. We humans have each been blessed with the God-given gift of making choices in how we think, speak, and act. For the time we each have left in this world of ours, let’s keep our thoughts, words, and actions creatively positive and be a light for world peace and harmony.

Bob McClellan Missoula

Rep. Mary Caferro D-Helena

Sen. Pat Flowers, D-Belgrade

Community members are encouraged to vote for their favorite Trail of Bales contest entries at the festival. A map and corresponding list of participants is left and below.

Ronan Harvest Festival is this weekend

RONAN — All are invited to attend the annual Ronan Harvest Festival this Saturday, Sept. 16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The family-friendly event will be held in the grassy area behind the visitor center and

Glacier Bank. Sponsored by the Ronan Chamber of Commerce, activities include a farmers market and craft fair, petting zoo, bounce house, games, food, beer, “Ask a Farmer,” live music and more.

2023 Participants

2023 Trail of Bales Contest Participants:

College (SKC) 25. Ronan Body Shop 26. Valley Club 27. Ronan High School Class of 2024 28. Ronan High School Class of 2025

Ronan High School Class of 2026

Ronan High School Class of 2027 31. Access Montana

Ronan VFW 33. Westland Seed

Lake County Council on Aging 35. St. Luke Community Healthcare 36. The Ronan Mill 37. Mission Valley Popcorn Kitchen

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Mission volleyball falls to Thompson Falls

Story and

by Beau Biggs for Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS – The Mission Lady Bulldogs volleyball team faced off last Saturday with the Thompson Falls Lady Blue Hawks. The Lady Bulldogs gave it a good effort, but in the end, fell to Thompson Falls, 3 to 0. Coach Marissa Mocks spoke highly of her team. With a lot of returning players, Mission’s varsity volleyball team has plenty of experience. Sophomore and junior players make up the majority of the team in addition to four seniors and one freshman. Though they’ve had a bit of a rocky start to the season, Mock is optimistic about the future. “We’ve had some downfalls with a couple injuries,” Mock said. “Overall, we’ve overcame it, and were working hard as a team.” Mock said she’s excited to see how far her team will go this season. Next up the Lady Bulldogs travel to Superior Thursday to take on the Lady Bobcats.

sports shorts Soccer Polson girls

COLUMBIA FALLS

— Playing an away game didn’t work well for the Polson Pirate Girls Soccer team on Sept. 7. The Columbia Falls Wildcats outplayed the Pirates and won the game with a score of 9 to 1. Columbia Falls had possession of the ball 60% of the time took 39 shots on the goal vs. 7 shots at the goal by the Pirates.

Safety always in session: back-to-school reminders for motorists

News from Montana Department of Transportation

MONTANA — Montana’s schools are back in session, which means many children are walking, bicycling, or riding a school bus to and from their destination. MDT would like to remind motorists to always be attentive and alert while driving, to share the road, and to obey all traffic laws as school days bring school buses and increased traffic during school start and end times.

School bus laws:

Make sure you understand and follow Montana’s school bus laws.

— Yellow flashing lights indicate children are preparing to load or unload, and motorists should be prepared to stop.

— Red flashing lights indicate children are loading or unloading, and motorists MUST stop at least 30 feet from the school bus and wait until red lights are no longer flashing.

Together, we can help keep our students safe on their journey. Learn more about the

goal of Vision Zero and school bus safety here: Vision Zero | Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) (mt.gov)

Driving reminders:

MDT reminds everyone to be attentive, share the road, slow down, and obey all traffic laws, as school days bring school buses and increased traffic during school start and end times.

Motorists should:

— Always avoid distractions while driving.

— Watch for children walking or bicycling when backing out of driveways and garages, and when exiting alleyways (particularly in the morning and afternoon and as daylight hours decrease).

— Watch for children in school zones and be aware of nearby school routes. Slow down and watch for children at corners and bus stops.

It is also important for both bicyclists and pedestrians of all ages to:

— pay attention and listen to their surround-

ings.

— avoid cell phone use while walking and biking.

— make eye contact with drivers before crossing, and

— cross only at crosswalks and intersections

Remember, children are not small adults. A child’s peripheral vision is not fully developed. Children also have difficulty determining direction of sound and judging the speed and distance of moving motor vehicles. By being aware, slowing down, and observing traffic laws, you can do your part as a motorist to ensure Montana’s children arrive to their destination safely.

Are you a parent or guardian of a child?

There’s no better time to teach them about pedestrian and bicycle safety! MDT has a wealth of safety and educational resources available online or by contacting MDT’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator at 406-4449273 or MDTBikePed@mt.gov.

Together, we can keep our students safe!

photos

Court issues preliminary injunction to prevent authorization of

News from Rylee Sommers-Flanagan, Upper Seven Law

HELENA — On Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, the First Judicial District issued a partial preliminary injunction to prevent enforcement of House Bill 562 (“HB 562”). The district court found that the bill likely violates separation of powers principles and voters’ constitutional right to vote in local school board elections, among other Montana constitutional provisions.

Public school plaintiffs - a diverse group that includes the Montana Quality Education Coalition and the League of Women Voters of Montana as well as eight Montana teachers, parents, voters, and taxpayers - brought the lawsuit because HB 562 would create a separate and unequal system of state-subsidized private schools that directly conflicts with the Montana Constitution’s guarantee of equal, free, and quality public

education.

The district court determined that Public School Plaintiffs are likely to succeed on the merits of dispositive claims, explaining, among other things, that “the legislature can no more transfer the Board [of Public Education]’s constitutionally sanctioned executive powers to another body than it could transfer the duties and powers of the Governor or the Attorney General to a new office of the legislature’s creation.” While the district court allowed a new statewide commission to convene, it has enjoined the commission from authorizing any privatized schools under HB 562 and thus stopped the bill’s unconstitutional system of unaccountable schools from progressing until a full and fair examination of the merits can be had.

“This comes as no surprise. Access to high quality, free, and equal public education in Montana is a fundamental

right under our state constitution,” said Amanda Curtis, president of the Montana Federation of Public Employees and a member of MQEC. “This case is about our children and about the future of our state. We cannot build privatized schools that defund public schools and provide quality education at the same time.”

“Diverting public funds to schools with no accountability will fundamentally change the nature of public education in Montana and we cannot stand for it,” said Jessica Felchle, a Billings public school teacher with children who attend Laurel Public Schools. “Both for my own children and the children I teach, I am incredibly relieved. And I am confident that the Montana Constitution will continue to protect us.”

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

Taylor Ross Named to SNHU President’s List

News from Southern New Hampshire University

MANCHESTER, NH — Taylor Ross of Polson has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s (SNHU) Summer 2023 President’s List. The summer terms run from May to August.

Full-time undergraduate students who have earned a minimum grade-point average of 3.7 and above for the reporting term are named to the President’s List. Full-time status is achieved by earning 12 credits over each 16-week term or paired 8-week terms grouped in fall, winter/ spring, and summer.

Learn more about Southern New Hampshire University at: www.snhu.edu.

Wednesday, Sept. 13

Reserve spot in Mario Kart Tourney

POLSON — On Wednesday, Sept. 13, starting at 12:30 p.m. join the North Lake County Public Library for an awesome Mario Kart Tournament on the library’s Nintendo Switch. This program is geared toward ages 7-10, with a cap of eight contestants. Call the library at 406883-8225 to reserve your spot today. Thanks to The Greater Polson Community Foundation for providing our Nintendo Switch.

Ronan City Council meets

RONAN — Ronan City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 207 Main Street SW Ste A. For more information call 406676-4231.

Free online meditation classes offered

ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. Please join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesday, Sept. 13, and

on subsequent Wednesdays, for an online meditation class led by Zen Teacher, Zenku. The classes are from 6-7:30 p.m. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847721-0665 or email at Jerry. Smyers@gmail.com.

Thursday, Sept. 14

Masumola Club meets

POLSON — Dust off your picnic basket for   Join hosts Pat and Mac Binger, Bill and Jeanette Gregg, and Doug Wold for the fall roundup at the Masumola Clubhouse. Hosts are serving pork loin. Suggested food distribution: A–H hot dish; I–O dessert; P—Z salad or vegetable. As always, please remember your plates, silverware, and beverage of choice. Annual dues: September is the month we collect dues ($20 per individual; double that for a family – still the best entertainment dollar you can spend in Lake County). Irene and other board members will collect dues at the door. See you all at the Masumola Club.

Dinosaurs on ‘Storytime’ agenda

POLSON — The North

Donate Your Car

Imagine

Lake County Public Library’s Storytime Program takes place at 10 a.m. on Thursdays. On Sept. 14 “dinosaurs” will be their theme.

Enjoy Ronan’s Farmer’s Market

RONAN — Every Thursday through Oct. 12, enjoy the Ronan Farmer’s Market from 3:30-6:30 p.m. at the Ronan Visitor’s Center on Highway 93.

Friday, Sept. 15

New Friday hours at library

POLSON — Due to limited staffing, the North Lake County Public Library will close at 5:30 p.m. on Fridays.

MSU presents Caregiver Respite Retreat

POLSON — MSU Lake County Extension of-

fice is partnering with MSU Healthy Aging Department to host a Caregiver Respite Retreat on Friday, Sept. 15, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. This is a free event, lunch is included, and participants will receive a $50 Visa gift card. This retreat is for all those wonderful folks who have stepped into the role as caregiver (fulltime or part-time). Registration is required; call 406-676-4271.

Local goods sold at Polson Farmers Market

POLSON — The Polson Farmer’s Market is open every Friday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. until October. Located in downtown Polson, 3rd Ave. W, (in front of the Cove Deli) the market offers locally produced fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, cheese, eggs, honey, jams & jellies, baked goods, bedding plants, perennials, shrubs, veggie & herb starts, hanging baskets, cut flowers, soaps, skin care products, wood working products,

jewelry, photography, art, pottery, and many more unique craft items.

St. Luke hosts annual Foundation Dinner

RONAN – The St. Luke Community Healthcare Foundation hosts their annual fundraiser dinner on Friday, Sept. 15. Live and silent auctions accompany a fine dining experience. Proceeds will go toward the purchase of an in-house MRI machine. Call 406528-5218 to make reservations.

Saturday, Sept. 16

FWP to hold Women’s Warden Workshop

HELENA — Montana

Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Law Enforcement Division will hold its first ever Women’s Warden Workshop on Sept. 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Montana WILD in Hel-

ena. The workshop is open to anyone 16 years or older who is interested in becoming a warden. Registration is not required.

The workshop will cover topics including: a day in the life of a warden; how to become a warden; opportunities to meet FWP’s female wardens; case presentations; mock investigations; and ride-along opportunities. Anyone who is interested in the warden profession but cannot attend the workshop can contact Warden Brooke Shelley at: brjohnson@mt.gov.

FWP’s Law Enforcement Division provides conservation law enforcement services to the people of Montana to help steward and protect Montana’s Fish, Wildlife, Parks and outdoor recreation resources. For more information about the division, go to fwp.mt.gov/ aboutfwp/enforcement.

see page 17

When

&

Call 1-855-901-2620

Mufasa Mufasa

Mufasa is a large, very handsome, 3-year-old male. He is incredibly gentle with kids. He sits, lays down and twirls on command. He is not compatible with other animals. Come meet Mufasa today!

Calendar

from page 16

Join Life Savers Animal Rescue BBQ

RONAN — You are invited along with your LSAR dogs to our second annual adopter, foster and supporter appreciation gathering. Join the celebration of everyone that helps make our rescue such a success on Sept. 16 from noon to 3 p.m. at Ronan City Park Pavilion, located on Eisenhower Street and 4th Ave. In addition to the barbecue there will be giveaways, a raffle basket, LSAR merchandise and dogs.

Play in Toys for Tots Golf Tourney

POLSON — The 8th annual Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots

4-person Golf Scramble, presented by Marine Corps League #1041, will take place at the Polson Bay Golf Course on Saturday, Sept. 16. This tournament is open to the public. Course season pass holders pay $50 entry fee and non-course pass holders pay $60. Deadline for all entries is Wednesday, Sept. 13. For more information call 406-249-2250 or the Polson Bay Golf Course at 406-883-8238.

Family-friendly Harvest Festival held

RONAN — Spend the day enjoying a farmers market, craft fair, petting zoo, bounce house, games, food, beer and live music. Come hang out with your local community from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. behind the Ronan Visitor’s Center and Glacier Bank.

Sunday,

Sept.

17

Lake County Democrats hold picnic

POLSON — Picnic in the park on Sunday, Sept. 17, at 4 p.m. with Lake County Democrats. It’s a Jambalaya Labor Day Celebration. We’ll provide Jambalaya with rice, rolls, lemonade and water, you bring your side dishes and chairs. BYOB. There will be a quilt raffle and drawing. Join us a Boettcher Park, Shelter No. 2.

Monday, Sept.

18

Read, sing, play with your baby

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library’s Mother Goose

see page 18

Community Partner

from page 17

program takes place on Mondays at 9:15 a.m. This is an opportunity for parents or caregivers to interact with their young children. This program is geared toward ages zero to three.

Polson City Commission to meet

POLSON — The Polson City Commission meets the first and third Mondays of each month (Wednesday, if the Monday falls on a holiday) at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 106 First Street, E. Meetings are open to the public.

Wednesday, Sept. 20

Free online meditation classes offered

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

Thursday, Sept. 21

MVUMC celebrates International Peace Day

ST. IGNATIUS — The Mission Valley United Methodist Church will celebrate International Peace Day on Thursday, Sept. 21, beginning at 6 p.m. with face painting, a cake walk, speakers and a dinner at 7 p.m.

Do you have a favorite cultural dish that you could share? Please join us for a fun evening celebrating Peace Day. Bring the whole family.

Mission Valley Choral Society begin practices for Christmas Concert

POLSON — The Mission Valley Choral Society begins practices for the 2023 Christmas Concerts from 7-9 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 21, at the Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall. Christmas 2023 concerts are scheduled for Dec. 16 at the St. Ignatius Mission and Dec.17 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Polson. New director Cathy Gillhouse says she is thrilled to be directing the MVCS, and she hopes to draw in new singers to the four-part choir. Basses and baritones are especially needed. The Lake County community choir has existed since the 1960s. The choir brings a diverse group of people together, all ages with varied backgrounds, united to bring joy through music. For information call 406-261-3304 or 406-370-2076; or check out the MVCS web site at: missionvalleychoralsociety.org or Facebook page.

seniors

Polson

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — Our annual membership drive has kicked off and continues in September. Join us in serving the Senior Community in Polson for $15 per year.

Bingo: $100 payout bingo games Fridays at 7 p.m. - “Playing Card” bingo first and third Wednesday of each month

Exercise: sitting or standing - M-W-F 10:30–11:30 a.m. - free informal video-assisted self-guidance

Pinochle: Thursdays noon-3 p.m. new players are joining us now    Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Veterans’ Rep: first Friday, (Oct. 1) and third Tuesday, (Sept. 19) of each month 10 a.m.-noon MENU (subject to change): A suggested donation of $5 supports the nutrition program. Serving meals from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sit-down or take-out; call before 10 a.m. for delivery.

— Wednesday, Sept. 13: pork tips with gravy and pasta, beets/spiced oranges, cinnamon Jell-O, peach cobbler

— Thursday, Sept.

14: meat Loaf, baked potato, creamed peas, fruit salad, poke cake

— Friday, Sept. 15: pizza, Hawaiian or Pepperoni, corn, green salad, cookies

— Monday, Sept. 18: vegetable soup, zucchini bread,

cottage cheese with fruit, chocolate pudding

— Tuesday, Sept.19: barbecue chicken, French onion potatoes, green beans, spaghetti salad, cookies

— Wednesday, Sept. 20: meat pot pie, biscuit, apple sauce, ramen coleslaw, orange fluff

— Thursday, Sept. 21: chili dog, tater tots, fruit Jell-O, brownies

We are located at 504 Third Ave. E and are open from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. on weekdays. Call 406883-4735 or email us at: polsonseniorcenter@ gmail.com. Submit your email address for updates and additional information from the center.

St. Ignatius

By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — The cool nights are welcome. Beware of bears as they continue to forage for their winter rest.

We will hold a Rummage Sale on Sept. 22 and 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. We are also raffling a basket that has a Pendleton outside blanket, coffee beans, coffee grinder, coffee cups and two hooded shirts. Tickets are $1 each or six for $5. We will hold the raffle drawing on Sept. 23 at 4 p.m.

The AARP Driving course will be held in October. Watch for the exact date.

The Lake County Health Department will

soon offer flu immunizations at the center. Watch for the date.

A big “Thanks” goes to all that come and play bingo.

The St. Ignatius Senior Center is looking to hire a site manager and an assistant cook. The work is two to three days a week for six to eight hours a day. If you are interested in a position, call 406-745-4462.

People that come and eat our meals have commented on how tasty the local fruit and vegetables taste. We continue to welcome fresh produce from gardens and orchards.

We invite anyone to come and enjoy one of our meals or call for a takeout. Call 406-745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays and by 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Mealtimes are listed below. Menus for the month are available in the center’s entryway.

Menu:

— Friday, Sept. 8: noonchicken stuffing casserole, fresh green beans, fruit salad, birthday cake

— Saturday, Sept. 9: bingo played at 2 p.m. with a special prize for blackout

— Tuesday, Sept. 12: noon

- pizza, fresh salad, dessert

— Friday, Sept. 15: noon

- tuna cakes, carrot/vegetables salad, dessert

— Tuesday, Sept 19: noon - chicken chili, fresh vegetables, cornbread, plum dessert

— Wednesday, Sept. 20: meal at 5:30 p.m. - roast turkey, sweet potatoes, cranberry-kale salad,

pumpkin bars

We invite you to become a member of the St. Ignatius Senior Citizen Center for a fee of $10 a year. You can join us at any age.

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

Gently Yoga is held on Wednesdays at 1-2:15 p.m. If you are interested, call Bonnie Kiser at 406-2530177. Her rates are five sessions for $60.

We have walkers, a commode, a shower chair, a wheelchair, a high-rise toilet seat, 4-prong canes, regular canes, and a transfer bench to loan out.

Our senior center is available to be rented. If you are interested, call 406745-4462.

The senior center has a computer that is available for use by the public. If you are interested in using the computer, come in on Tuesdays or Fridays between 10 a.m.-1 p.m. or call and leave a message.

If you need help with other areas of your life such as: transportation, respite, home health services, or other information, call the Lake County Council on Aging at 406-676-2367.

Arlee

By Arlee Senior Center Board for the Valley Journal

ARLEE – Wow. What an eventful end of sumsee page 19

from page 18

mer. Jocko’s Big Knife fire, Hurricane Hillary, smoke from the Paradise fire, and more smoke from all the fires from Canada, Niarada and Seeley followed by wind and more rain. The hay fields were abundantly blessed with a good soaking, as well as these dusty roads in the Jocko Valley.

This is the time of year the tomatoes are ripening, the squash’s flowers are building squash, corn is on the stalk, fall is coming with cold days, colder nights, only to resume the heat of summer. And we at the Arlee Senior Center are so happy to have members and friends show up for meals and visits. Oh, the stories are told, of bears in the yard, deer with their youngsters, of more water needed for lawns, gardens and fields because of the highest heat temperatures ever,

abundant fields of grain, grass and alfalfa, and the trouble it is to find help for us as we get older (and wiser).

We invite you and your friends to come down and share a meal with us on Mondays and Wednesdays at noon and the second and fourth Saturdays at 5 p.m. Please call first so that we can prepare enough food for all: 406-726-3213 and leave your name/number of meals/and eat in or take out. Our meals still remain at $4/lunch and $5/supper. We truly appreciate all of you who leave a tip for our cooks also.

September brings commodities for those who are signed up on Sept. 19th here at the center. If you meet the guidelines, this is an exceptional aid for seniors in our community. You can contact LCCOA for an application at 406-676-2367 as there are several openings

available. The Food Bank is also available on certain Fridays at the old Hangin’ Art Gallery building.

Also, if you are so inclined, Arlee High School sports have free admission to seniors 65 and older. It is fun to get involved in our community. Our schools’ activities keep us aware of all that is happening here in the Jocko Valley. Seniors should get involved in the school board meetings as our tax dollars support them.

The Lake County Council on Aging will have their meeting Sept. 11 here at 10 a.m. and then join us for lunch. If you have any questions about what we offer, you can talk to the new president, Debra Upton. LCCOA is an excellent source of aid for seniors for transportation, information and assistance, home/health care, etc. Call 406-676-2367. CSKT Transportation is also available for us

to use. Do you want a trip through the Bison Range?

See you at our September events.

Menu for the rest of the month:

— Wednesday, Sept. 13

– salmon patties, coleslaw, fruit, dessert

— Monday, Sept. 18

– Polish sausage with kraut, chips, fruit, dessert

— Wednesday, Sept. 20

– meatloaf, baked potato, broccoli, fruit, dessert

— Saturday, Sept. 23

– beef roast, mashed potatoes and gravy, candied carrots, roll, fruit, dessert

— Monday, Sept. 25 — fettucine alfredo with chicken, dinner salad, breadstick, fruit, dessert

— Wednesday, Sept. 27 – breakfast for lunch, cinnamon rolls, hashbrowns, bacon, sausage, eggs

Please call 406-7263213the day of the meal by 9 a.m. and leave a message with your name, phone number,

the number of meals you want and whether you wish to dine in or take out.

Ronan

By Donna Daniels for the Valley Journal

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

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

Our menu:

— Wednesday, Sept. 13: soup, sandwiches, salad, dessert

— Friday, Sept. 15: ribs, sauerkraut, salad, dessert

— Monday, Sept. 18: enchiladas, salad, dessert

— Wednesday, Sept. 20: brunch, salad, dessert

— Friday, Sept. 17: Sunday roast pork dinner. Everyone is invited.

The Mission Valley Senior Center is available for renting for your events. Call us if you are having an event and

need a location to have it.

If your garden is producing faster than you can eat it, the senior center will take any excess you have.

We are looking for help again. If you are interested in a position, please stop in.

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

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

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

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

PUZZLES

GIANT CROSSWORD

ACROSS

1. Ottoman title

6. Bricklayer’s need

12. Blood poisoning

18. Descend, while rock climbing

19. Freshen

20. Athlete’s aide

22. Cleave

23. Boxing maneuver

24. Almond liqueur

25. Bullied

27. Badgering

29. Dog treats

30. Drab-looking 32. Barn topper

33. Arrange

34. “National Velvet” author Bagnold 35. Preserve, in a way

36. Like thick smoke 38. Bold

40. 1773 jetsam 41. Herb in stuffing 42. Hurt

66. Anklebone

68. Enrich, in a way

69. Chameleon kin

70. Keats, for one

71. Former

73. Refuse

74. Shoe supports

76. Out, in a way

77. Foreshadow

78. Small drink

79. Crawdad habitat

81. Black Friday scenes

82. Marienbad, for one

85. Recorded

88. Light refractor

89. Challenge for a barber

90. Ending on spleen or liver

91. Tankard filler

92. “Land of the Chamorros”

93. Mix

95. Circus employee

96. Dirty or untidy

100. Make impatient

102. Airedale, e.g.

103. Insect with pincers

105. Moseys along 106. Certain conic section

107. Floodgate

108. Broken finger support

109. Saw

110. Electric eye, e.g.

111. Lieu

DOWN

1. Exploitative employer

2. Loss of voice

3. Discharged

4. Catnip and lovage, e.g.

5. Sheltered, at sea

6. Related to touch

7. Soften

8. Gasket

9. Pale

10. Cut

11. English Channel port

12. Hair piece

13. Bump off

14. Taps

15. Thailand, once

16. Overrun

17. Fishing nets

18. Carpenter’s cut

21. Wretched

26. “Haste makes waste,” e.g. 28. Bust, so to speak 31. Marina sight 35. Bank

37. Word with full 38. Blast

39. Play for higher stakes

41. Blubbers 42. Maple genus 43. Former African capital 44. 50th anniversary, for example 45. Manage 46.

73. Brain area

75. Ceiling

77. Wall Street buys

79. Breakfast staple 80. Drifting

81. Dugout figure

82. Arab League member

83. Simulated

84. Dead

85. Spoonful, say 86. Cause of hereditary variation

Buck and Bailey

Ran as engines should

Arizona neighbor

Birdsong

Fliers in V’s

Clark’s exploring partner

Bait

Excursion

Native American tent

Its motto is “Lux et veritas”

Bridge call

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

David Bowie

DOT-TO-DOT

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

MIRROR IMAGE

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

A B C D

SOLUTIONS

Down: 1. Padrone, 2. Aphonia, 3. Spewed, 4. Herbs, 5. Alee, 6. Tactile, 7. Relent, 8. O ring, 9. Wan, 10. Etch, 11. Le Havre, 12. Strand, 13. Erase, 14. Pats, 15. Siam, 16. Infest, 17. Seines, 18. Rabbet, 21. Ratty, 26. Adage,

103. Earwig, 105. Ambles, 106. Ellipse, 107. Sluice, 108. Splint, 109. Espied, 110. Sensor, 111. Stead.

69. Aids, 72. H-bomb, 73. Lobe, 75. Lid, 77. Bonds, 79. Bran, 80. Aimless, 81. Manager, 82. Somalia, 83. Pretend, 84. At rest, 85. Taste, 86. Allele, 87. Pearls, 88. Purred, 89. Mexico, 90. Warble, 92. Geese, 94. Lewis, 95. Tempt, 97. Trip, 98. Tipi, 99. Yale, 101. Pass, 104. Run.

45. Eke out, 46. Ended, 47. Merlot, 48. Arable, 49. Nasser, 50. Scampi, 51. Cocoon, 52. Rinses, 53. Sills, 54. Herald, 55. Inure, 58. Boars, 62. Steep, 67. Sways, 68. Lieu,

42. Acer, 43. Lagos, 44. Milestone,

38. Gas, 39. Up the ante, 41. Sobs,

28. Raid, 31. Yacht, 35. Save, 37. Chock,

classifieds

Announcements

Auctions

2023 STATE OF MONTANA

SURPLUS PROPERTY

AUCTION – Helena, MT.

Online bidding opens on Sept. 16 and ends on Sept. 30. Go to pateauction. com or download the Pate Auction app to your mobile device for listing and details.

Antique Tractor Auction, Thurs., Sept. 28, 10 a.m., 11 miles SW of Lewistown, MT @ Janicek’s Iron Wheel Ranch. 22 tractors, 1950 Dodge Pwr. Wagon, 1955 Studebaker truck, all running, plus antiques/ collectibles. Live auction w/ internet bidding @ www. ShobeAuction.com. Call 406-538-5125

WILDLIFE AUCTION: Sat.

Sept. 23, 11 am. Montana

FWP confiscated antlers, hides, mounts, skulls from 7 regions. Expo Center @ Metra Park, Billings. National Auction Cash Seal Auctioneer (406) 259-4730. www. nationalauctionusa.com

Special Notices

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

tion, call 1-877-324-0193

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

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

Connect to the best wireless home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5G and 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 855-419-7978

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

1-866-585-6456

Employment Help wanted

Eagle Bank is committed to full-service community

banking – where we believe in…Lifetime Service ~ Lifetime Friendship. We have an opportunity for you to join the Eagle Bank Team as a Customer Service Representative. The role of the Customer Service Representative is to be welcoming, build rapport and provide outstanding service while performing account transactions. This position offers flexible work schedules with competitive pay and benefits. To apply send your resume to HR@eaglebankmt. com. Location – Eagle Bank – 80 Heritage Lane, Polson MT. Salary – Depending on experience and/or education. In accordance with the Indian Self-Determination Act, P.L. 93-638, and the mission of Eagle Bank to serve the Flathead Reservation communities, preference will be given in hiring for suitably

qualified Native Americans in the following order: 1 Enrolled members of CSKT; 2 Enrolled members of other federally recognized Native American or Alaska Native Tribes; 3 All other applicants

HYDROLOGIC TECHNICIAN/ HYDROGRAPHER I (1 OR MORE POSITIONS AVAILABLE) - DEWRWATER RESOURCESRONAN, MT NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must possess two years of college coursework, or one year of college with a physical science background, or a high school diploma or equivalent and one year of experience in Natural Resource Data Collection. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. Must wear Tribal Government identification and safety apparel when

conducting field activities.

FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION

DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copy of relevant transcripts, a copy of valid Montana driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT, must pass pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range $19.88 to $22.85 per

hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-6752700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, September 28th, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Farm/Ranch Animals

Use Happy Jack® mange medicine to treat horse mane dandruff & lice. At Tractor Supply® (www. happyjackinc.com)

Help

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

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

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

public notices

above-entitled estate, and the address of the Personal Representative is set forth below.

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

Public Notices

Ann L. Moderie

MODERIE LAW FIRM, PLLC

P.O. Box 1180 Polson, Montana 59860 (406) 883-2332 (888) 454-5939 (Fax) ann@moderielaw.com

ATTORNEY FOR PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TERRY I. JENSEN, Deceased.

CAUSE NO.: DP-23-56

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the

A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of 20th Judicial District Court, at 106 4th Ave. East, Polson, Montana, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to the Personal Representative, c/o Moderie Law Firm, PLLC, attorney for the Personal Representative, at P.O. Box 1180, Polson, MT 59860.

/s/ Christopher Jensen

CHRISTOPHER JENSEN

Personal Representative

Estate of Terry I. Jensen, Deceased

Aug. 30, Sept. 6 and 13, 2023

MNAXLP

Kathryn Krantz PO Box 166 St. Ignatius, MT 59865

Personal Representative

Montana Twentieth Judicial District Court, County of Lake

In the matter of the Estate of Kenneth Harley Krantz, Deceased.

Cause No. DP 23-47

Notice to Creditors

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present all claims within four (4) months after the date of the final publication of this notice, or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must be either mailed to KATHRYN KRANTZ, Personal Representative, PO Box 166, St. Ignatius, MT 59865, return receipt requested, or filed with the Clerk of the above court.

Dated this 21st day of August 2023.

/s/ Kathryn Krantz

Kathryn Krantz

Aug. 30, Sept. 6 and 13, 2023

MNAXLP

John A. Mercer Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP Attorneys at Law

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

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: NANCY A. LARSSON, Deceased.

Cause No.: DP-23-59 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That

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

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

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

/s/ Susan Martha Wassel Susan Martha Wassel

Personal Representative Estate of NANCY A. LARSSON, Deceased.

September 13, 20 and 27, 2023 MNAXLP

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

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

Custodian Part-time

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

Part Time Seasonal Grounds Maintenance

Salary Range: $11.30 - $13.21 per hour DOE Closing Date: Open until filled

Assistant Director/Lead Teacher – Early Learning Center (10 months, full time)

Salary Range: $38,880 - $45,725

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Assistant to the Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs (EMSA)

Salary Range: $30,786- $35,307 Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Health Promotion Practices Department Chair 11-month term (July off) which includes $2500 Dept. Head stipend

Salary Range DOEE: $45,778 - $48,716 Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Custodial Services Supervisor

Salary Range: $18.28 – $18.72 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Office Professions Faculty (9 months, full time) Salary Range: $43,823 - $46,227 DOEE

Date: Open Until Filled

Tech/Accounts Receivable Salary Range: $16.54 - $16.97 DOEE

Date: Open Until Filled

Truck Driving Instructor-PT (9 months)

Salary Range: $18.19 - $19.53 DOEE

Date: Open Until Filled IT/Computer Science Faculty Salary Range: $45,025 - $49,883 Closing Date: Open Until Filled Academic Transfer Specialist

Salary Range: $33,507 - $35,307 DOEE Closing Date: Monday, August 21, 2023; 4:00pm

Security Officer Part-Time

Salary Range: $12.57/hr - $13.84/hr DOEE Closing Date: Monday, August 14, 2023; 4:00pm

Division of Education Instructor/Early Childhood Technology (9 months)

Salary Range: $46,227- $52,237 DOEE Closing Date: Tuesday, September 5, 2023; 4:00pm

Nursing Faculty/Clinical Instructor (10 Months) 2 openings

Salary Range: $53,531-$55,935 DOEE Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Nursing Director Salary Range: $75,477 -$77,080 DOEE

Closing date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Climate Hub and Natural Resources Administrative Assistant

Salary Range: $16.97/hr-$18.28/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Native American Studies Cultural Specialist/Instructor (9 months)

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

Closing Date: Monday, September 11,2023;4:00pm

College & Career Readiness Coach (3 positions open)

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

Closing Date: Monday, September 11,2023; 4:00pm

College Career Readiness Mentor (4 Positions Open)

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

Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

NYCP College & Career Readiness Instructor (9 months part time)

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

Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Early Learning Center-Preschool Teacher (9.5 months)

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

Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Early Learning Center-Toddler Teacher (9.5 months)

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

Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Early Learning Center-Lead Infant Teacher (9.5 months)

Salary Range: $22.48/hr-$23.22/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Early Learning Center-Assistant Teacher (9.5 months)

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

Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

TREES Student Program Coordinator

Salary Range: $34,407-$36,207 DOEE Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Library Assistant (part time)

Salary Range: $13.06/hr-$13.93/hr DOEE Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Indigenous Research Center (IRC) Program Assistant

Salary Range: $38,443-$40789 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Indigenous Research Center (IRC) IRM&M Library &Repository Manager

salary Range: $50,176-$53,696 DOEE Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Instruction Outreach Services Librarian

Salary Range:$20.17-$21.87/hr DOEE Closing Date: Monday,September 18,2023; 4:00pm

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