09-21-22 Issue by Valley Journal

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“There are so many different methods of decorating them, some people add props … it’s just such a blast. And we do truly get a lot of people coming

September 21, 2022 $1.25 Vol. 19, No. 1 CandidateBearspg.8pg.5Sportspg.13 www.valleyjournal.net

Autumn begins with the Ronan Harvest Festival

An event put together en tirely by volunteers, the festival is made possible each year by the Harvest Fest committee, Ronan Chamber board mem bers, local businesses along with community members who want to help out. “We definite ly couldn’t do it without every one pitching in,” Cates stated. “We are so lucky to have the

best volunteers in our commu nity.”One of the biggest draws the weekend festival brought was the annual Trail of Bales creations positioned around town. This year’s 1970s theme brought tie-dyes, Space Invad

ers, Flintstones and more to the streets of Ronan. With 34 entries initially, another was added last minute by the Salish Kootenai College. An updated map including the 35th entry is pictured on the next page and is also available online.

RONAN — The 12th annual Harvest Festival was celebrated in Ronan last Saturday, Sept. 17 to mark the official start to autumn.While the last 12 years have seen a lot of different events come and go, from chili cook offs to giant pumpkin contests, this year saw the two local cooperatives join in the fun. With music provided by the Western Montana Musician’s Co-op, and the Ronan Co operative Brewery providing drinks, the busy day was com plete with carnival games and a cornhole tourney, a petting zoo, a bounce house and a large vendor market.

“It’s very exciting this year,” Ronan Chamber of Commerce member Lacy Cates comment ed. “We have a diverse group of vendors ... It’s a lot of good family fun.”

“It’s been so fun with the haybales,” Cates laughed.

By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

your homegrown

see page 2 SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

2 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

RegardingCorrectiontheLakeCounty elec tion article of last week, affidavit envelope barcodes are scanned into MT Votes while signatures are veri fied individually by election officials. Those interested in scheduling poll watching activities must contact their central committees.

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This year’s winner will be the first to receive the Harvest Festi val’s new Traveling Trophy. While in-person voting took place at the festival itself, people are still able to vote for their favorites online until Sept. 24 at: wayseventstofellowship.”bringwayeventsoffpeoplesitewillcom/RonanChamber.www.facebook.Thewinnerbeannouncedattheonlineaswell.“Ithink(HarvestFest)bringstogether,kindofkicksfall,”Catessaid.“Alotofthetherearefree,soit’sagoodtogetpeopletogetherandpeopletotownforsomeVisit:RonanChamber.comlearnaboutmoreupcomingintheRonanareaandtogetinvolved.

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festival from page 1

More photos online at valleyjour nal.net

This map shows the location of all 35 participants for the Trail of Bales. Voting is open online until Sept. 24.

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in from outside the area to see those haybales every day.”

September 21, 2022 - 3Valley Journal This Week’s Weather Forecast Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday September 21 September 22 September 24 September 25 September 27 71°/44° 57°/40° 64°/39° 67°/40° 71°/43° 75°/46° 76°/46° precipitation5%Sunnychance precipitation77%Rainchance Partly Cloudy 18% precipitationchance precipitation5%Sunnychance precipitation4%Sunnychance Partly Cloudy 21% precipitationchance precipitation6%Sunnychance WED 09/21 THUR 09/22 FRI 09/23 SAT 09/24 SUN 09/25 MON 09/26 TUES 09/27 Flathead Lake Level 2892.00 ft ( 1.00 ft below full pool) Today in History September 21, 2021 High 69° F Low 32° F Precipitation 0.10 inches Record High 92° F Record Low 23° F Tuesday With more than 35 years of trusted experience, Carolyn Cole, Jason Reese & Mann Mortgage can help you with ALL loan types. Our unmatched access to multiple lenders ensures you the lowest rate and saves you thousands on the life of your loan. carolyn.cole@mannmortgage.com (406) 883-1445 NMLS202131 NMLS438393 Mann Mortgage LLC NMLS 2550 jason.reese@mannmortgage.comMTL#270418/#105/#801 (406) 883-1445 Find us directly across from Flathead Lake 50125 US Hwy 93, Polson, MT September 23 7:21 am 7:38 pm 2:20 am 6:28 pm 7:23 am 7:36 pm 3:28 am 6:52 pm 7:24 am 7:34 pm 4:38 am 7:12 pm 7:25 am 7:32 pm 5:49 am 7:29 pm 7:27 am 7:30 pm 7:00 am 7:45 pm 7:28 am 7:28 pm 8:13 am 8:02 pm 7:30 am 7:26 pm 9:27 am 8:20 pm SeptemberMonday26

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2022 contents Valley Journal contact us www.valleyjournal.net And find us online for more photos, videos, breaking news and special sections! Police chief ................... 7 Courts ........................... 9 Valley Views ................ 11 Sports ......................... 13 Teacher pay ................ 17 Births .......................... 26 Calendar ..................... 28 Classifieds .................. 30 TAYLOR DAVISON / VALLEY JOURNAL

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County and the Flathead Indian Reservation. Deadline for display advertising is 2 p.m. Thursday. Deadline for news submissions, calendar items, classifieds and legal advertising is noon Friday, for the following week’s newspaper.News,letters to the editor and calendar submissions may be sent by email to: vjeditor@valleyjournal.net. Classified and legal advertisements requests should be emailed to: vjmail@valleyjournal.net.Allprintsubscriptionsinclude full access to online news, archives. Sign up online at: callsubscribewww.valleyjournal.net/Forgeneralinquiries:406-676-8989,emailsummer@valleyjournal.net, or send mail correspondence to P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT 59864.

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The Valley Journal newspaper (PE 23-190) is published weekly by Valley Journal LLC. Periodicals postage paid at Ronan,BusinessMT. hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.Distribution is by mail subscription ($59 per year in Lake County, MT; $74 per year elsewhere in U.S.) and by newsstand sales. Postmaster: send address changes to Valley Journal, P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT. 59864. Your homegrown newspaper serves residents of Lake

Kathi

“The job of being a judge is not about politics,” he said. “Yet I think we’re going to see a lot of that in this race.”

“When I decided we needed a drug court, I didn’t know even how to start,” Manley wrote in

comments delivered by Duck worth. “I searched around and found out that the best drug court in the state was Judge Gustafson’s, so I took a group out there and we attended her court, and she opened every thing to us, and then mentored us ever after … Some of the credit for the positive things we’ve achieved here belongs to her.”During her time as a district judge, Gustafson also spear headed a pilot court to help reunify families and reduce the time children were spending in the foster care system.

“I’d like to think this race isn’t about politics because I’m not a politician and I never have been,” she said. “I don’t decide cases based on whether you’re in a particular political party. I think that would be ju dicialHermalpractice.”judicialphilosophy is straightforward: “I think a judge should approach each case and see what the facts are, what the law is, what the issues and arguments before the court are, and make decisions based on the law and the constitu tion.”

Montana Supreme Court Justice Ingrid Gustafson told a gathering in Polson last week that judges need to stay out of the partisan political fray “and make deci sions based on the law and the constitution.”

During last week’s campaign visit to Polson, Montana Supreme Court Justice Ingrid Gustafson visits with CSKT Tribal Councilwoman Car ole Lankford.

Gustafson views her experi ence as a district court judge as invaluable preparation for serv ing on the Supreme Court. “I’ve spent my career trying to apply the law and our constitution in a fair and impartial manner,” she said. “I’ve worked very hard over time to improve the lives of children and families.”

In his remarks, Duckworth warned that the nonpartisan race was turning increasingly partisan and predicted a flurry of attack ads on the part of Gustafson’s opponent prior to November’s election.

In 2011, she launched the county’s first felony drug court – an innovative approach to helping people with addic tion-related convictions enter recovery and build more suc cessful, productive lives. She’s written three grants to start drug courts and has helped other judges – including Man ley – develop these courts across the state.

It was a concern that Gus tafson echoed.

“We’ve taken a lot of those pilot practices and spread them across our state and we are seeing huge reductions in the number of kids in foster care,” she said. The programs have helped train judges who preside over child welfare cases, save taxpayer money and enable more children to safely return to their parents, she added.

“They did a good job for me.” She and her husband of 35 years have two children – one a major in the U.S. Air Force and the other an elementary school teacher.Although she ducks the par tisanship that’s been introduced into the race, with top Repub lican officials endorsing Brown, Gustafson doesn’t hesitate to compare her record with that of her“Byopponent.thetime I practiced law for 16 years and then took the bench my opponent had not graduated from law school yet,” she told the audience.

By Kristi Niemeyer For the Valley Journal

“At district court, I’ve handled about 15,000 cases and another almost 1,100 at the Supreme Court. In that time, my op ponent as appeared in state district court 74 times and has handled just a handful of things before our court, mostly writ issues.”She’s past president of the Montana Judges Association and has served on the Montana Commission on Sentencing, as well as several other statewide legal committees and organi zations, and is widely regarded as an expert in the drug-court model.“It’sgoing to take him over a decade to catch up,” she said of Brown.After her talk, a member of the audience told Gustafson that her daughter supports the incumbent and has encouraged her mom to do the same.

KRISTI NIEMEYER

“Your daughter’s right,” said Gustafson, smiling. “I’ve just been doing this a long time. I feel like I’ve got to trust people to listen to me and evaluate my qualifications. And I’m hopeful that they will return me to keep serving Montanans.”

KRISTI NIEMEYER

Supreme Court Justice Ingrid Gustafson makes campaign appearance in Polson

POLSON — A sizeable showing of Lake County’s legal community, along with around 30 interested voters, showed up at Glacier Brewing in Polson last Thursday to hear from state Supreme Court Justice Ingrid Gustafson. The incumbent is seeking to hold on to her post on the high court in a race against Helena attorney James Brown, who currently chairs the Public Service Commis sion.Local attorney Kiel Duck worth introduced Gustafson on behalf of retired Lake County District Court Judge Jim Man ley, who was unable to attend.

September 21, 2022 - 5Valley Journal

Gustafson was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2017 by Gov. Steve Bullock and was elected to retain the seat in 2018. She came to the court with considerable experience, having spent 16 years in pri vate practice before Gov. Judy Martz appointed her to fill a district court vacancy in Yel lowstone County, Montana’s largest and busiest judicial dis trict. She held that seat for 14 years, winning three elections.

On a more lighthearted note, Gustafson took credit for being both a Bobcat and a Grizzly. She graduated from Montana State University where, she jokes, “I majored in ski racing and picked up a business degree on the side.” Her four years on the varsity alpine ski racing team earned her an NCAA All-American title and mem bership in the MSU Hall of Fame.Onthe Grizzly end of the equation, she received her law degree from the University of Montana. “There’s a place in my heart for public education and state colleges,” she said.

“The Volunteers of America Northern Rockies does great work across the Treasure State helping veterans and their fam ilies put a safe roof over their heads,” said Tester. “That’s why I’m proud to have helped secure this important investment that’ll support Montana’s continued fight to end veteran homelessness and connect more folks with the tools they need to succeed here at home.”Theaward is a portion of more

News from the office of Governor Greg Gianforte

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News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

than $130 million in grants the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Supportive Services for Vet eran Families (SSVF) Program awarded to existing providers to further incentivize landlords to rent to veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless and their families. Last year, SSVF served more than 100,000 veterans and veteran family mem bers through grants provided to organizations working to end vet eran homelessness nationwide.

“Hunting is the primary tool for

Visit: https://fwp.mt.gov/cwd for more information.

The clinic in Kalispell, in partner ship with the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Flathead Chapter, is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 4 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the FWP office in Kalispell, 490 North Meridian.

Since November 2020, nearly 32,000 jobs have been created in Montana.

The state’s labor force continued its record growth in August, adding 1,361 workers and exceeding 567,000 Montanans for the first time ever. August marks the 8th consecutive month of labor force growth.

Montana’s labor force participation rate also continues to grow, reaching 62.7% in August. As in the previous three months, growth in the labor force slightly exceeded employment growth, leading to a slight increase in the state’s unemployment rate to 2.8%.

to BLS, between August 2021 and August 2022, gas prices increased nation ally by 25.6%, energy services prices by 19.8%, grocery prices by 13.5%, baby food prices by 12.6%, infants’ and toddlers’ apparel prices by 8.6%, airfare prices by 33.4%, and new vehicle prices by 10.1%.

“Hardworking Montanans are fueling our strong economy, which grew at the seventh fastest rate in the country last year,” Gov. Gi anforte said. “With more Montanans working than ever before, business owners are filling positions in key industries like health care, con struction and manufacturing.”

monitoring and managing the spread of CWD, and we rely heavily on hunters to help us in this effort,” Re gional wildlife manager Neil Ander son said. “Our goal with these clinics is to offer hands-on instruction to help hunters learn how they can col lect their own samples. We’ve also developed an instructional video on our website that show how to collect samples.”CWDsampling is voluntary in Montana. Hunters can have their deer, elk, or moose tested for CWD. FWP is paying for the testing of samples. Hunters can either take the samples themselves, fill out an online hunter submission form and mail them to the Wildlife Health Lab in Bozeman, or they can bring the animal (or head) to an FWP regional office or CWD Sampling Station this fall.In recent years, FWP has detected CWD in white-tailed deer, mule deer and moose in the Libby area. Hunt ers need to be aware of the Libby CWD Management Zone (MZ) and its boundaries, which includes portions

U.S. SENATE — U.S. Senator Jon Tester recently announced $1.2 million in federal funding for the Volunteers of America Northern Rockies, a statewide service organization focused on helping prevent and end veteran homelessness in Montana.

News from the office of Senator Tester

Montana’s total employment hit a record high in August, growing by 610 workers with more than 551,000 Montanans employed. August marks the 28th consecutive month of employment growth in Montana.

“Volunteers of America North ern Rockies is incredibly grateful for Senator Tester’s commitment to our Nation’s Veterans,” said Jeff Holsinger, Chief Executive Officer Volunteers of America Northern Rockies. “His lead ership as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs helped secure additional funds for the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program that will have a profound impact on our ability to obtain stable housing for homeless veterans in Montana.”Asamember of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Chairman of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, Tester helped secure federal funding to support VA programs, including those aimed at tackling veteran home lessness, through the annual ap propriations process. The Senator also fought tirelessly to deliver billions in the American Rescue Plan to provide health care ser vices and extended support for veterans who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless. He was the only Montana statewide official who supported the legis lation.

KALISPELL — This fall, staff in Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Re gion 1 (northwest Montana) will be offering free clinics to teach hunters how to collect lymph node samples from the animals they harvest to have them tested for chronic wasting disease (CWD).

FWP offering free clinics to teach hunters how to collect their own CWD samples

of Hunting Districts 100, 103 and 104. In 2020, a single CWD-positive whitetail buck was detected out side the management zone near the Thompson Chain of Lakes, and an other CWD-positive was discovered outside the management zone in 2021. Hunters wishing to have har vested deer, elk and moose tested can submit samples themselves, vis it the Libby CWD Sampling Station (Montana Department of Transpor tation shop on U.S. Highway 2, mile marker 35) on weekends during the general season or stop by the FWP office in Kalispell (490 North Merid ian) during business hours Monday through Friday. FWP staff’s ability to collect samples at game check stations will be limited and will occur only if it can be done safely and check stations are not busy. Hunters are encouraged to submit samples for testing, particularly in the Libby CWD Management Zone, so FWP can better assess the status of CWD in northwest Montana.

FWP staff are partnering with local sportsmen’s groups and businesses to offer the training clinics in Libby and Kalispell, and the courses are open to all interested hunters. At tendees will learn about FWP’s plan to monitor for CWD this fall and get hands-on practice removing lymph nodes for testing. Equipment will be provided, but hunters can bring their own knives as well as recently harvested deer.

$1.2M secured to combat veteran homelessness

Historic Montana job growth continues in August

Inflation and rising prices continue for con sumers, as the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers rose 0.1% over-the-month while the 12-month change in the CPI-U remains high with an 9.6% increase over-theyear in the Mountain West. Inflation over the last 12 months ticked down slightly in August to According8.3%.

HELENA — On Friday, Sept. 16 Governor Greg Gianforte announced both the number of Montanans working and the size of Mon tana’s labor force grew to new all-time highs in August, according to data compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Montana Department of Labor & Industry.

related, including Narcan training.Narcan, also known as Naloxone, is a medication that can quickly reverse the effects of overdoses from opioids such as oxycodone, heroin, and fentanyl.“When I was over in Hot Springs, we already knew fentanyl was in the area… I wanted to get Narcan in the area, be cause rural communities I found out were really struggling with getting it,” Acheson explained. While larger municipal ities like Missoula and Kalispell can get Narcan to the public at no cost, rural areas don’t have those kinds of grants available. That’s where the Narcan training comes“Thisin.is something that’s sanctioned by the State of Montana through the department of health and human services, through a grant, so people who attend this Narcan training, for two years they get free Nar can to keep with them in case they should ever need it,” Acheson said.

In 2015 he went to work in Ronan, before moving to Florida for three years where he worked as a corrections officer. Missing Montana and law enforcement, he made his move back right around the strike of Covid-19 in 2020.

By Taylor Davison Valley Journal

A Narcan Master Trainer outside of his police and EMT duties, Acheson is working to get more master trainers brought in to offer more training to the gener al public. Right now Acheson is offering one training per month until he can get more help, and the next session will be in Thompson Falls in October. Future train ings will be announced on the new St. Ignatius Facebook page at officeparticipatingcally.astana-101939175927439/ty-Monpartment-Lake-CounSt-Ignatius-Police-Dewww.facebook.com/https://wellasadvertisedloThoseinterestedincancalltheat406-745-3881or

is working to update the department’s policy and procedure around his other duties to, in the fu ture, hire reserve officers for extra help in critical instances.“Ifeellike a lot of people still don’t know there’s been a change in leadership here, so… I’m just trying to make sure for the people I haven’t been able to get out and meet, or the folks that don’t know, I just want them to know the force has a new chief in the of fice and with that there’ll be some positive chang es,” Acheson said. “I want to work more with the community, I want to have more transparency with the community, and I want to create, build, and maintain trust that may or may not have been there before... We can always do better.”

Acheson also got in touch with the State of Montana to acquire AED defibrillators for patrol cars, as he said their officers are often first on scene to a lot of medical calls. “Those also kind of tie into Narcan,” he added. “When you’re administering Narcan, chances are you’re going to have to do CPR, and when you’re doing CPR

ST. IGNATIUS — Chief of Police Jason Acheson was sworn in on July 7, and since then has been working to im plement new measures in the police Originallyforce.from Co lumbia Falls, Acheson has worked throughout the Flathead in his ca reer. He started out as a reserve police officer in Columbia Falls in 2000, becoming a fulltime offi cer close to the 9/11 ter rorist attack. From there, he became an officer in Whitefish in 2007 until late 2013 when he took a break of service.

the line of duty in 2017. Although the foundation hadn’t been accepting grants at the time, when Acheson reached out to explain their need, the foundation gave the department twice the amount they asked for. Acheson credits them for incredible support for the police force in Montana.

email Acheson at whoutyBroadwaterfoundedThevestvesthadbodyFoundationfromablesafety.equipmentobtainingdepartmentingmentsneeded,”nity,totownofstignatius.com.chief@“It’soneserviceIwantbringtothecommuandit’svery,veryAchesonsaid.AdditionalimproveAchesonisworktobringtothepoliceincludeimportantforhealthandRecently,Achesonwastoobtain$2,000theMasonMooretopurchasearmor,asAchesonbeengoingwithoutaandanotherofficer’swasclosetoexpiring.organizationwasbythewidowofCountyDepSheriffMasonMoorewasgunneddownin

September 21, 2022 - 7Valley Journal

New St. Ignatius police chief outlines plans for future

While he was reestab lishing himself, Acheson worked part time in Polson and Hot Springs, where he also received training to become a cer tified EMT. Even after applying for and receiv ing the Chief of Police position in St. Ignatius earlier this year, he still occasionally works on an ambulance.Thanksto delving into the medical field, Acheson said, led him to other things medically

you almost always need an AED if you can get one. They’re critical for any sort of Additionally,cardiac.”Acheson

Members of the Saint Ignatius Fire Department, Saint Ignatius Police Department and the Ronan Police Department participated in training to be Certified Narcan Master Trainers at the September training course.

“If people feel like they need to carry it for their own protection, or out of concern for someone else or a loved one… or even children in the household exposed to that kind of environment and inad vertently ingesting or consuming a narcotic, and that Narcan can save their life.”

The changes will take a while to implement, Acheson stressed, as the small department has a lot on its plate, “but we’ll get there because we have a desire to get there, to be better than we were before. We should always strive to be better. We want to move forward and bring security and satisfaction to the com munity so that they know they are protected, and they are well served.”

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“Open a window and yell, bang pots and pans, blow a boat-horn, spray them with bear spray, or make some loud, audible noise to alert and scare the bear away as soon as possible. The longer a bear is allowed to be in a yard or on a porch without hazing, the more bears will learn to associate human dwellings and yards as safe places to be, and will seek them out for shelter,” Kingery stated. “It is up to each of us as residents in Bear Country to prevent bears from learning bad behaviors. Bears will take behav iors learned in your yard and take them to your neighbor’s yard, or the next neighborhood, so let’s teach them healthy, safe behav iors.”

duce, pet and bird feed, and small livestock.Bear-resistant garbage bins can be leased for an additional fee from Republic Services for those who have their trash picked up, Adams explained. For those who haul their own garbage, these garbage bins can be purchased at Ace Hardware. People can also consider making an extra trip to the dump each week, or keeping garbage inside until morning. Pet and bird food should also be brought inside at night and grills and grease traps should be cleaned

Bear sightings in Lake County increase

“We are often asked why we don’t set culvert traps and remove every bear in conflict. On the surface this seems like a good solution, however, it is only a temporary solution to a deeper issue,” Kingery added. “Removing one bear that has learned this behavior may resolve the issue momentarily, but if the attractant is not removed or secured, new bears - sometimes even only hours later - will find that same food source and learn the same behavior.”Thebest way to reach out for bear safety consultations is the non-emergency conflict call line, 406-275-2774. Those interested specifically in electric fencing help can call 406-883-2888 ext. 7299 to speak with Adams.

Additionally, it’s important that bears do not grow comfortable in residential areas. “If you’ve been seeing the bear for months and it’s been hanging around, what it’s doing is getting more and more comfortable,” Adams said. “They’re going to get bold.”

LAKE COUNTY — There has been an increase in bear sightings in communities this year, but according to biologists from the Wildlife Management Program of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, it isn’t due to this year’s fire activity.

“Althoughregularly.itmay seem safe, sheds aren’t a secure place to store trash or feed, as bears can damage a shed if it smells food inside,” Kingery added. “Ammo nia, bleach and other cleaners are effective at getting rid of smelly trash; however it is not an effec tive way at keeping bears out of yourRemovingtrash.” excess and unused fruit from around the home will

For a bear safety consultation, call the Wildlife Management Program’s non-emergency conflict call line at 406-275-2774.

8 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

also be extremely important this year, as low availability of natural fruits will pressure bears to seek from fruit trees in people’s yards, Kingery mentioned. Those who need help picking unused fruit can visit the Mission Valley Fruit Gleaning Facebook page aorsomeone’swhatsomightthees,wellprovide,tionalsoprogramssharedleavewhereablewithValleyFruitGleaningwww.facebook.com/Missionat:toconnectpeopleinthecommunitytohelp.Drop-offlocationscommunitymemberscanboxesofgleanedfruittobewithvariouscommunityandfoodbankscanbefoundonthispage.ElectrificationisalsoanopandsomethingtheytrytoAdamssaid.“Itgoeswithfruittrees,berrybushchickencoops…Alotoftimeasimplenetloanerkitnotworkforsomeone,we’reabletogoout,lookattheissuesareandwhereat,learnwhattheydodon’twant,andcomeupwithcreativesolutionwiththeland

“We had a late winter, and it got hot pretty early, and I think it just messed with the growing cycle that a lot of the plants bears like to eat,” Adams said. “So now, this time of years, when ideally we’d like to see bears moving up into the mountains and eating huckleberries … they’re not find ing any. I haven’t been able to find any huckleberries either. All the plants we’ve seen kind of look scorched.”Now,as bears move into hy perplasia - trying to build up fat reserves for the winter - they’ve been following garbage sources into new places. “Residents that aren’t normally accustomed to securing attractants from bears are seeing bears this year, and we have been expending efforts to educate the public on bear safety and awareness as often as possible,” wildlife biologist Kari Kingery stated. “We appreciate the good stewardship of Flathead Indian Reservation residents by practicing methods to prevent these often-avoidable human –wildlifeMeasuresconflicts.”residents can take to avoid these conflicts include a variety of ways to protect and secure potential attractants, such as garbage, exterior fruit and pro

owner to protect whatever it is they have that’s attracting bears,” he“Asexplained.longas they get all the material, we’re more than willing to help them install it,” Alexander added.“We’ve had a few people say that they turned their fence off because they didn’t want it to start a fire. That’s a reasonable concern. All the materials that we use, all the materials that we recommend people use for their own fence, they’re all new and updated fencing that isn’t the type that would cause any type of live spark,” Adams explained. “Take a weed eater around your fence, make sure nothing’s growing into it, and you should only need to worry about it about three times per summer. If people have those concerns, they’re more than wel come to reach out, but as far as just thinking if a blade of grass touches the electric fence it’s go ing to start a grass fire, that’s not how the electric fences work.”

The main suspected reason, ac cording to bear biologists Payton Adams and Padden Alexander, is due to poor berry production and a general lack of food.

Marshall Bigknife Quequesah pleads not guilty to felony possession

Ruben Cutfinger

Bigknife pleads not guilty to felony assault

September 21, 2022 - 9Valley Journal

BB gun and showed police where he stashed the BB gun. The victim was shot three times in his left eye. He was initially treated at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson before being airlifted to a hospital in Missoula. A physician in Polson indi cated that the man will likely lose function of his leftThiseye.was the third inci dent involving a BB gun in Polson this summer.

POLSON — A tri al date of March 3 has been set for a Polson man accused of shooting an toSept.PolsonCourtatnota18,Bigknife,MarshallamanelderlywithBBgun.enteredpleaofguiltyDistrictinon14felonyassault with a weapon.According to court re cords, at about 1:15 a.m. on Sept. 6, Polson Police responded to a report that a man on Main Street had

Judge Molly Owen is presiding over the case and set a trial date of March 3. Bigknife is currently being held in the Lake County jail. The jail roster shows he is being held without bond.

Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher set a trial date of Feb. 27. Cutfinger remains in the Lake County jail with bail set at $25,000.

Judge Molly Owen set a trial date of March 3. Quequesah is being held on $100,000 bond.

Cutfinger pleads not guilty to three felonies

Amanda Quequesah

an injury to his face. At the scene, police witnessed an elderly man sleeping on a mattress in the alley off the 400 block of Main Street. The man claimed that he had been shot with a BB gun multiple times. As police were taking his statement, they observed a young man running north and gave pursuit. The young man was ap prehended a short distance away and identified as Bigknife. He claimed he was drunk. When ques tioned about the BB gun and where it might be, Bigknife went silent. He eventually admitted that she shot the man 15 to 16 times with a CO2 powered

Stories by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal

POLSON — A Ronan man is accused of stealing three vehicles on separate occa sions and smoking fentanyl. Ruben Daniel Cutfinger II, 31, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson on Sept. 15 to three counts of theft, one count of criminal mis chief and possessioncriminalofdangerous drugs, all felonies.According to court records, on Sept. 11, 2021, a work truck belong ing to the Confederated Salish and

Melvin pleads not guilty to two counts felony DUI

POLSON — A Pablo wom an is accused of dealing large amounts of the dangerous drug fentanyl. Amanda Renee Quequesah, 28, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson Sept. 14 to criminal pos session with in tent to distribute, felony.According to court records, on Aug. 31, drug executedagentsasearch warrant at Quequesah’s residence. The search yielded various items of drug paraphernalia and several safes. After being advised of her rights, Quequesah admit ted there would be “hundreds

Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher set a trial date of Feb. 27 on the two cases that were filed against him.

courts

of counterfeit fentanyl pills and about $5,000 cash” in the safes. Quequesah admitted to the agents that she had recently gotten into the drug dealing business. She denied that anyone was assisting her. In all, law en forcement officers seized $6,234 cash, a digital scale, drug para phernalia, a notebook containing drug-sales transaction notes, a 9mm pistol with its serial num ber obliterated and loaded mag azine. Five young children were in the home and were rounded up by child protective services. The charging documents indi cate that Quequesah’s residence is approximately 300 feet from an elementary school.

POLSON — A Polson man is accused of com mitting felony DUI three times in the span of 13 months. Ron Phillip Melvin, 67, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson on Sept. 15 to two counts of felony DUI. Lake County Attorney James Lapotka says the third felony DUI is pend ing lab Accordingresults.to court records, Melvin was arrest ed for DUI on July 28, 2021. He was issued a citation and released from custody, but missed his court date and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Melvin was picked up on the warrant May 4 and allegedly was driving while intoxicated again. Again, he was cited, booked, and released and then failed to make his court appearance. Another warrant was issued for his arrest. On Aug. 27, Mel vin was arrested for another DUI. This time Melvin was not released from jail and instead his bond was set at $10,000 for each of the three arrests.

Kootenai Tribes was stolen from a gas station in Pablo. The truck was later discovered abandoned with over $5,000 in tools missing. Surveillance cameras at the gas station showed Cutfinger as the suspect that took the truck. Cutfinger had just been released from jail earlier that day. Then on Feb. 21, 2022, Cutfinger is alleged to have stolen a 2010 Ford Focus from a residence in Ronan.

The owner reportedly watched the theft occur. Four days later the owner of the Ford Focus called law enforce ment to report he located his Ford Focus traveling U.S. Highway 93 in the Pablo area. This ultimately led to a pursuit with law enforcement that caused over $6,600 in damages to

the car. On March 12, a 1994 Jeep Grand Cherokee was stolen from a residence in Arlee. The Jeep Grand Cherokee was the subject of a traffic stop later that day with Cutfinger identified as the driver. He told po lice he knew the Jeep was stolen but denied being the person who stole it. Finally, Cutfinger was arrested on an outstanding warrant in Pablo on July 14 and was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia that contained fentanyl residue. Cutfinger told the arresting officer that he used the par aphernalia to smoke fentanyl.

published.Lettersmust be signed by the author and name, address and phone number must be included – phone num ber is for verification purposes only. Letters from organizations must include the name of at least one author. Please limit “thank you” letters to people/organizationsfour or less. Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday to publish the followingOpinionsweek.expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the newspaper.

Can kindness curb conflict? The science of the smile

Ihad been outside since 5:45 a.m., in 50-degree drizzle. My feet were soaked despite several changes of socks. My fellow outside poll observers, Republicans and Democrats alike, looked just as forlorn as we answered voters’ ques tions in Virginia during the 2018 election.

At about 2 p.m., a woman with three small kids in tow waved at us as she went in to vote. I loved seeing her – and other parents – bring their kids to the polls.

them. Somehow, we think they will be seen as insin cere or cheap. Again, we underestimate our ability to make others happy.

Free at last. Free at last. Free. At. Last.

10 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

I clean the windows and mirrors and they stay spotless. Same goes for the kitchen floor and countertops.

Valley Views

By free, I mean a stage

The recipients did report a bump in happiness –but one higher than what the givers had anticipat ed. In other words, we underestimate the impact of our kind gestures.

Community Mediation, which offers resources for community approaches to difficult issues.

Slices of Life

After years of being pregnant, breastfeeding, snuggling little ones in the middle of the night and cleaning up LEGOs off the floor day and night (after first stepping on them) I’m finally here.

So I finally made it.

Post a kind comment on a website. Leave a thank you note for your letter carrier.Trust the research. They’ll appreciate it more than you’ll know. And they just might pay it forward. We need this, right?

Harvard Business Re view reported a similar experiment with luctantwecompliments,towethat,ments,complifindingthougharehappyreceivemayberetogive

That was the best hot chocolate I’d ever tasted, and the warmest I’d been all day. But more im portantly, I was touched by her kindness towards three Universitystrangers.totalAnew chologicalvidesreportTexas-Austinofproapsyexplanation of what happened, with an experiment oddly similar to my experience. People were handed a cup of hot chocolate and told they could keep it or give it to someone else. Those who gave it to someone else reported a bump in their own happiness and an ex pected bump in the hap piness of the recipient.

Fingerprints on the mirror

Smile as you pass strang ers on the street. Add an extra bump to a tip.

night. I can put the cat food or water in a dish on the floor and rest assured that no one will touch it, turn it upside down or try to drink or eat it.

Man, how I’ve wait ed for this stage in life.

Letters timederthewillNov.candidatesregardinginthe8midtermelectionnotbeprintedafterOct.26issueinortoallowcandidatesforresponse.

Letters to the editor are welcome. The con tent is the opinion of the letter writer and not the newspaper. The de cision to publish letters is made by the editor.

need to feel valued and connected to others, which these unexpected kindnesses do. They raise our self-esteem and link us to each other. Research shows countless other kindness health benefits, from oxytocin reducing stress levels and blood pressure to serotonin in creasing withDoresearch-backed–ingappreciatethatlittlesimplekindness.likelytivelylightsangious.Kindnesshappiness.isalsocontaSimplywitnessingactofbenevolenceupourbrainsposiandmakesusmoretoreplicatetheInfractioustimes,it’sawaytomakelifeaeasierforeveryone.First,remindyourselfpeopledefinitelywillyouappreciatthem.Thenconsiderandcommitto–someoptions.afriendlycheck-inpotentiallylonely

SUV with a tray of Star bucks hot chocolates. “You all look cold, and I wanted to thank you.”

Send a card describing what you admire about someone. Compliment a colleague on a task they’ve completed, the more specific about what you liked, the better.

friends via text or a call.

But these kindnesses and compliments are im portant, particularly now as we try to rebuild social fabric frayed by Covid isolation and toxic polar ization.Weare wired with a

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

After a weekend with my grands I’ve come to a couple of conclusions. Pillows be damned. A clean kitchen can check itself at the door for all I care. Give me those grand babies - those messy, sticky, sweet and lovable grand babieschaos and all. They’ve visited me a few times this summer.

Fifteen minutes later, the woman reappeared. She hopped out of her

Jill Pertler Syndicated columnist

LETTER POLICY

valley views

in life where chaos no longer rings supreme. As much as I indulged and relished that stage, I celebrate (to an extent) its end.Ican put pillows on the (neatly)bed in the morning and know they will still be in place when I go to bed at

For a person who self-actualizes over order, it is a piece of heaven on earth. Except for one tiny factor (or two): grand children.Theycame to visit last weekend and I was re minded of the beauty of chaos. I was reminded of the loneliness a beauti fully-made, pillow-filled - albeit empty - bed can create.

see page 11

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

“Thank you for being here!” she called to all of us as she emerged. My colleagues and I smiled at her and each other. We felt good, being part of the electoral process… cold as it was.

Melinda Burrell, NationalShemunicationtheworkerformerdicated@MelindaCBurrell,PhD,synbyPeaceVoice,isahumanitarianaidandnowtrainsonneuroscienceofcomandconflict.isontheboardoftheAssociationfor

MelindaPeaceVoiceBurrell

4. Giving a voice to Montanans who are not heard5.A sincere heart to do what is right for all communities in Lake CountyAsaresident of Flat head Indian Reservation in Lake County, she rec ognizes CSKT has the authority for self-gov ernment and sovereignty granted through the Hellgate Treaty. Shirley will represent all races, religions, and political preference in HD 93.

So, despite my orderly nature, I walk by those fingerprints every day and smile. I think maybe I should clean them, but know I won’t. At least not forTheyawhile.are too close to precious memories. They serve as a representation of the squeals and giggles and marshmallows and freezies eaten this summer. They are a reminder that child hood is ephemeral. Hand prints start out low on the mirror and rise higher and higher each year until they gradually disappear along with the stickiness and innocence of childhood.

Bob McClellanMissoula

We may not always have the money to do what we know needs to be done to support our public schools. Shirley is willing and able to work to find the funding for public education and spend it wisely so our future Montanans will have the best public edu cation they can.

1. Cooperative prob lem solving

from page 10

the needs of all individ uals. A few of the skills Shirley brings to HD 93 constituents are:

So for now - for beyond now - I celebrate sticky. I celebrate the simple beau ty of a visit to the candy store or picking tomatoes, pulling carrots, plucking zinnias from the garden or finding magic apples on the ground as seen through a child’s eyes.

fingerprints

2. Listening skills

And you’ll know why.

ly going through a very present political crisis. This crisis is a clear ex ample of the outworking of our human frailties. These frailties involve anger, attack, and blam ing others for our own fears in life.

Shirley Azzopardi for HD 93

ShirleyEditor, Azzopardi is a candidate for HD 93 which includes Ronan, Charlo, Arlee, Moise and parts of St. Ignatius. We couldn’t ask for a better representative than Shirley. We are all tired of the politicians who really don’t listen to their constituents. They continue to preach about issues that don’t impact Montanans. They blame everyone else for the problems but won’t sit down and try to work outShirleysolutions.listens, and the people are saying they want our kids to have a good public education and feel safe in their classrooms. Shirley, as a graduate of the Univer sity of Montana, taught special education in the St. Ignatius district for 28 years. She under stands the importance of supporting the brightest student, as well as those that need more help.

Jill Pertler is ofmisswrightcolumnist,award-winningansyndicatedpublishedplayandauthor.Don’taslice;followtheSlicesLifepageonFacebook.

We went into town to the candy store. We rode on the pontoon to the sand bar. We stayed up late, way past our bedtimes, putting together puzzles and crafting at the kitchen table. We picked veggies from the garden and tasted them right there. We found apples that had fallen from the apple tree and make homemade apple crisp. We watched the eagle’s nest, caught fish, witnessed loons with babies on their back and saw snapping turtles hatch. It’s been a magical time. Nothing short of it. At least for me. I can’t speak for my grands; I hope they feel the same way.

ShirleyEditor, and John have two adult children who graduated from St. Ignatius, and during that time Shirley was using her University of Montana degree teach ing special education in the St. Ignatius School District for 28 years. Teaching special educa tion helped Shirley to make informed decisions and take into account

It is nothing short of magic - much more for me than for them. I am the winner in this equation.

presence.Iremember a similar in stance with our dog, Daisy, years ago, except instead of fingerprints on the mirror, she left nose prints on the window. After Daisy passed over her rainbow bridge, I noticed the nose prints, and for the longest time couldn’t bring myself to wash them away. It was like washing her away. I feel the same about the handprints on the mirror. I know they are fleeting. I know these days of magic

3. Educator skills

Gerry BrowningPolson

One of Shirley’s many concerns she has is pro tecting Montana’s Con stitution, which includes but is not limited to the right to privacy, gov ernment accountability, and limiting the power of politicians. Attend a Meet and Greet on Oct. 5 in Leon Hall, 5-7 p.m. see page 12

and grandchildren are depending on it.

We choose how to face OurEditor,challengesnationispresent

Our nation went through, and continues to go through, these human frailties with our former president Donald Trump. His presidency enlivened these human frailties in this country, and many brought them right out into action.

After their first visit in June, I noticed the hallway mirror. It’s a full-length type, reaching from the floor to near the ceiling. At the bottom were numerous handprints, of the child hood variety. They’d ob viously found themselves in the mirror and couldn’t help touching and leaving a visible reminder of their

are short lived in the big scheme of things.

So I celebrate visits to the lake. Chaos and all. Fingerprints and all. Es pecially the fingerprints, the lessons they teach and the perspective they bring. I wouldn’t give them up for the world. And if you visit me next summer, they might well still be here.

lettersConsider Azzopardi

thoughts, positive ac tions, and taking person al responsibility for our problems.Thatislife, and life is a classroom. We can either listen and learn from the demonstrations of anger, attack, and blame, or learn from teachers of sensible reasoning and take responsibility for our own problems.

I hope you will seri ously consider voting for Shirley Azzopardi in November. Our children

Let’s be clear and hon est here: we each face life having to make choic es on whether to face challenges with anger, attacking and blaming others for our problems, or with reason, sensible

September 21, 2022 - 11Valley Journal

This is my personal view on things right now.

12 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

cause of injury death, increasing 56.5% between 2013 and 2019. More than 100 people die every year from drug overdose in Mon tana and more than 15,000 emer gency department visits annually are attributable to substance use.

Support books

vation.TheMissoula lic Library recently received

letters from page 11

“IEditor,read a book one day and my whole life was changed” (Orhan Pamuk).Books open minds. They can lead to trans formation and healing, allowing the reader to open up his world view to become more aware, tolerant, and compas sionate.Ourown North Lake County Library hosted a wonderful fundrais ing evening in August, featuring local author, Mark Sullivan, who wrote “The Last Green Valley” and “Beneath a Scarlet Sky.” He spoke of his growing aware ness of the greatness of America and how much it means to refugees. Bill Martel, a prominent character in “The Last Green Valley,” spoke of his family’s courage and perseverance in their long trek from Ukraine to escape the cruelty of both the Russian sol diers and the German Nazis during WWII. The Martels immigrated to Montana, where they are a well-known and respected family. Kudos to our library for host ing this event, adding funds to a needed reno

News and Photo from Laurine Wolf, Volunteer Ambassador, Shatterproof

information and training on harm reduction and distributing Naloxone (Narcan) to interested participants.Whilethe walk is a fundraiser for Shatterproof, registration is free. For more information or to register visit: https://bit.ly/3zFE VSz or contact Laurine Wolf, Shatterproof Volunteer Ambassa dor at 406-594-1203; wolfa1203@ outlook.com. Laurine is coordi nating the walk in honor of her brother, Patrick Bannan. For more information about Shatterproof, visit:Forshatterproof.org40millionadults living in America with a substance use disorder (SUD), the devastation caused by the disease can be crushing. According to recent federal data, an estimated 90,000 teens and adults in Montana have a SUD More than 90% of Mon tanans with alcohol and drug use disorders do not receive treatment. Drug overdoses in the United States have become the leading

Illicit drug use disorder is the most stigmatized health condi tion in the world, with alcohol use disorder not far behind at fourth in the world. The stigma of addiction and associated discrim inatory beliefs and practices have entrenched addiction as a public health issue. People with a SUD are forced to endure prejudice, so cial exclusion, and ongoing harm. These views erode self-worth, cre ate social isolation, reduce access to care, and serve as an obstacle to recovery and success. This only exacerbates the problem by cloud ing the nation’s ability to coalesce around meaningful solutions, including treatment, equitable health care, harm reduction, and recovery supports and services.

to learn more about Shirley and bring ques tions you may have for her.

Nancy TeggemanPolson

ofcheapour“Whateverterrenovation.theIfofthing.freedombooks,history?tothoritarianssuppressed?ourinbooks2021-MarchamtheOrwellian!bannedishighcontroversial.flowseeksthedividesuniteItsisBannedextremelyMontanansdiversityfutureacusingTheycalibrary2022“BestrecognitioninternationalwiththePublicLibraryofAward,”thefirstinNorthAmeritoreceivethisaward.arecurrentlyfoondevelopingstrategicplanforthebasedonequity,andinclusion.shouldbeproud.Moregoodnews:BooksWeekSeptember18-24.themeis,“Booksus.Censorshipus.”Celebratingfreedomtoread,ittosupportafreeofideas,evenifAfavoriteschoolread,“1984,”themostfrequentlybook.HowCheckoutlist;asaneducator,Iappalled.FromJuly2022,1586havebeenbanned26states.ShouldfreedomtoreadbeShouldaubeallowedsanitize(censor)ourJoinmeincelebratinglibraries,andthetoreadanyFightcensorshipbooksandhistory.possible,donatetoPolsonLibraryForasWalCronkitemused,thecostoflibraries,thepriceiscomparedtothatanignorantnation.”

The Helena Indian Alliance will be at the event providing

Shatterproof holds ‘Rise Up Against Addiction’ Walk

HELENA — This fall, show your support for those in recov ery from a substance use disorder (SUD), still struggling with a SUD and honor those who have lost their lives to this disease by participating in the Montana Rise Up Against Addiction Walk. The event also aims to raise awareness for reducing the shame and stigma around substance use disorders. Shatterproof, a national organi zation dedicated to reversing the addiction crisis, will hold a Rise Up Against Addiction Montana walk on Saturday, Sept. 24 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Spring Meadow Lake State Park in Helena. You can register individually or as part of a team. You can also walk in your local community or show support by registering even if you are unable to participate in person.

Janette M RosmanCharlo

Pub

Meet. 63228 US Hwy. 93 Ronan, MT (406) 676-8610

Saturday, Sept. 17 results

Helser

Isabel Seeley (junior) and Kai McDonald (junior) were the best paced runners, recording final 800s only 2 and 3 seconds slower than their opening 800s. Noah Roberts (senior) and Ashtyn Wagner (senior) both managed to better their 2021 times, but the most im proved award goes to Hayden Clairmont (junior), who chopped 33 seconds from last years’ time. It was also notable that 13 out of the 14 Pirates had converted 5k times that were better than their previous season best 5k.

www.westernmontanaland.com

153 Emmy Flatlip 28:55; 160 Evelyn Pavlock 30.00; 162 Kason Page 30:47

runners 35th

Andrew Rush holds his

“But God showed his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8

Saturday, Sept. 10 results Name 800 Mile 1 Mile 2 800 Finish 5k eq pl Ronan 2021 GIRLS Freshmen 42 Brittian Davis 3:48 7:54 8:35 4:17 20:46 25:45 18 DNS Juniors 26 Isabel Seeley 3:38 7:15 7:30 3:40 18:25 22:50 8 23:43 Adison Carlson 3:37 7:12 7:35 3:42 18:30 22:55 9 24:03 17:32 Katelyn Smith 3:40 7:22 8:10 3:50 19:22 24:01 11 25:54 Seniors 30 Ashtyn Wagner 3:08 6:25 6:58 3:22 16:45 20:46 5 22:12 16:48 BOYS Freshmen 59 David DiGiallonardo 2:59 6:12 6:15 3:22 15:53 19:42 12 21:09 Juniors 57 Kai McDonald 2:57 6:02 6:17 3:00 15:20 18:59 20 20:35 15:10 Hayden Clairmont 2:58 6:08 6:14 3:06 15:29 19:11 21 20:10 15:52 Brandt Heninger 2:58 5:55 6:30 3:15 15:40 19:25 23 19:01 15:29 Seniors 52 Colter Wilson 2:55 5:55 6:13 3:00 15:08 18:46 26 19:26 Drifter Skillicorn 2:53 5:52 6:16 3:02 15:08 18:47 27 19:37 14:17 Noah Roberts 2:58 6:08 6:18 3:13 15:39 19:24 33 20:21 15:43 David Bjorge 3:00 6:12 6:39 3:16 16:08 19:59 38 21:07 15:42 Kai Clifford 3:15 6:43 7:08 3:29 17:21 21:29 46 22:49

JV Boys. 488 runners 22:24 Girls Race 21st as a 377 Cedar Hunt 23:25 26:53; 136th Natalie 27:00;

team.

PR;

out of 415 runners.

Sawyer

St. Ignatius cross country runner 7th place in Missoula 7th

Andrew Rush 7th. 15:55. PR; Robbie Nuila 26th. 16:51; Zoran LaFrombois 59th. 17:25; Thomas Nuila 70th 17:34 Harlan Leishman 203rd 18:55; Pule 346th 21:24; Erich Morigeau 358th 22:16

Zia

. . contact Mission Valley Animal Shelter Call 883-5312 or visit Facebookourpage! Sponsored by Wright Real Estate Co.

SPOKANE — Saturday, Sept. 10 was an unpre dictable day at Shadle Park High School in Spokane. Air quality caused delays and race format changes, but the Pirates finally got to run the Highlander 2.5 mile course.Thehighest finishing boy was David DiGiallonardo who claimed 12th among freshmen boys. For the girls, four had top 11 placings: Ashtyn Wagner (5th senior), Isabel Seeley (8th junior), Adison Carlson (9th junior) and Katelyn Smith (11th junior).

News from Coach Chris Eichert, St. Ignatius High School

PR; 58th Ellanah Flatlip 24:121; 135th Cora Matt

For details and to obtain application materials on the Patrol’s https://dojmt.gov/highwaypatrolwebsite

trophy from the Mission Mountain Classic run

The varsity boys team placed 10th overall out of 58 teams and 415 runners.

sports CrossPolsonCountry

276th Jake Helser

September 21, 2022 - 13Valley Journal Petoftheweek

“For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” Romans 14:11-12

COURTESY PHOTO

POLSON — Polson Lady Pirate volleyball play ers are having a successful season so far. The Lady Pirates defeated Beaverhead County High School 3-1 at home on Sept. 17. Polson prevailed over the Ronan Maidens 3-2 on Thursday, Sept. 15 and over the Whitefish Lady Bulldogs on 3-0 on Sept. 13. The Lady Pirates will take on the Browning Indians at home on Saturday, Sept. 24.

Zia!

We Will All StAnd Before God

She is a very sweet girl who loves attention. She is about 10months to 1 yr old. She is good with cats, kids and other dogs and is looking for her furrever home.

on Sept. 17. Rush placed

accepting applications for Trooper positions

2 out of THINGSYOUNEEDTOKNOW

To learn more join us at Lake City Baptist Church • 38907 MT HWY 35 406-465-8564 • Sunday service at 10:30 a.m.

Closing Date: 10-03-2022 AA/EEO Employer

News from Coaches Seeley and Brown, Polson High School

News from Coach Lizzy Cox, Polson High School

God desires that all people have a loving, genuine, personal, and engaging relationship with Him.

St. Ignatius

VolleyballPolson

MISSOULA — Following cancellation of the Sept. 13 cross country meet in Mission due to smoke, St. Ignatius XC runners competed Sept. 17 at the Moun tain West Classic run in Missoula.

Ronan quarterback Caleb Cheff looks for some room during the Sept. 16 homecoming game. The Ronan Chiefs lost to Polson’s Pirates, 12-47. Cheff completed 8 passes for 93 yards and rushed for 47 yards for two touchdowns on the night.

Homecomings celebrated

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Caleb Cheff and Jace Frost were named 2022 Ronan Homecoming King and Queen.

The Chiefs take down Polson’s quarterback during their homecoming football game Friday, sept. 16.

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

14 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

Ronan students sport 70s attire and music atop their float in the home coming parade on Sept. 16. Right & far right: Homecoming pride was celebrated during the parade from atop horses and vehicles where students threw candy to youngsters who lined Main Street.

ANNABELLE GUNDERSON PHOTO

TAYLOR DAVISON / VALLEY JOURNAL

ANNABELLE GUNDERSON PHOTO Ronan Homecoming football game crowd

September 21, 2022 - 15Valley Journal

TAYLOR DAVISON / VALLEY JOURNAL

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL Ronan Homecoming parade wave

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO Sydney BlackWeasel makes a kill against the Lady Pirates during the Ronan homecoming volleyball game. Polson’s Lady Pirates came away victorious 3-2 in the Sept. 15 match up.

The Arlee Homecoming game against Mission saw the Bulldogs beat the Warriors 72-22.

TAYLOR DAVISON / VALLEY JOURNAL Garrett O’Connor and Jerny Crawford were named the 2022 Arlee Homecoming King and Queen.

16 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal theRestoringBalancebyreducingnon-nativelaketrout• Up to $200,000 in cash & prizes • $50 - $2,000 lottery prizes! Only takes one fish or ticket to win! • More than 9,000 tagged lake trout with values from $100 to $10,000 Fish the Entire Lake No entry fee!Fish one day or every day! (Entries taken until the last day) Check in stations at Somers, Wayfarers, Big Arm, Blue Bay & Polson. Each day counts for bonuses and increases with your total entries. Check the rules page & register online at www.mackdays.com Sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes; Sanctioned by the Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks (406) 883-2888, ext. 7294 COVID-19PROTOCOLS SafetyCOVID-19protocolswillagainbeinplace.isourmostimportantconcernforeveryone.Pleasepracticeallsocialdistancingguidelines. 2022 Fall Mack Days on Flathead Lake September 15th through November 13th Lake Trout Fishing Event/Contest on Flathead Lake

- MT Federation of Public EmployeesAmandaPresidentCurtis

to information compiled by MFPE analyst Sarah Piper and shared with Montana Free Press, 16 school districts had raised their starting teacher pay to meet HB 143’s thresh old as of May 2022. For ty-two districts qualified for the extra payments without having to raise their base salaries, and an additional nine districts qualified purely by follow ing “their typical salary trend.” MFPE’s analysis concluded roughly 57% of Montana school dis tricts did not qualify for the TEACH Act incen tives and are still paying a starting wage below $33,850 as of this school year.Dennis Parman, execu tive director of the Mon tana Rural abilitycapacitytheyaroundbutcisionsaid.ativelyafterqualifying“quitetivedistrictsheardAssociation,Educationsaidhehasn’tmuchfromsmallerabouttheincenthissummer,butthatafew”succeededininthemonthsthebill’spassage.“Theytookactionrelquickly,”Parman“Itwasaneasydeforthemtomake,itjustallrevolvedwhetherornothadthebudgetarytodothat.”Meltonsaidadistrict’stomeetthenew

The issue is likely to fuel additional conversations during the coming 2023 Legislature about what else the state can do. Sup porters of HB 143 were careful to caution last year that the bill was not a silver bullet, and that addressing the problem would necessitate further proposals. According to education stakeholders, a leading contender to join the 2023 session’s policy debate is the establish ment of a statewide health insurance pool for public school currentmittee,tolducationofmon,districts.managedbystaffTeachersemployees.andschoolaretypicallycoveredpoliciesnegotiatedandbyindividualSen.DanSaloR-Ronan,amembertheLegislature’sEdInterimComMTFPthemodelcreatesdif

The Teacher Pay Horizon

of our teachers should ever be in in the state of

18 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

from page 17

Financial strain is hard ly a new phenomenon for Montana teachers. Individual schools and districts have long been aware of the concern, and some have taken specific steps to address it. The Big Sky School District broke ground on new rental housing for teachers in 2019, and finished con struction of one of those units last year. Districts in Cut Bank, Bozeman and elsewhere have found space in their budgets to offer signing bonuses for new hires, while Missoula County Public Schools recently upped hourly pay for substitute teachers from $12.50 to $14.50.

HB 143 passed through the Legislature with only two opposing votes — both in the House — and was signed into law by Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte on March 5, 2021.The Montana Office of Public Instruction did not respond to multiple requests last month for information about how many districts have so far qualified for the incentive, or for an interview with Superintendent Elsie Arntzen about the issue of teacher pay. But according

law’s benchmarks was largely dependent on cir cumstance. For those with smaller pay gaps to close in order to qualify, the situation was “pretty easy.” But for districts with low er starting salaries, the ex tra funding from the state might not have covered the cost of qualifying.

school employees.”

“ (How) can the schools pay teachers more if the schools don’t have the money to pay the teachers?

several instances where applicants interested in the district have changed their minds at the last minute.“Wedo get applicants and people do want to work here, but the hous ing prices have turned people away, Holland said. “It’s happened at least three times I can think of.”In short, the cost of living is rising dramat ically, and salaries aren’t keeping up. This is Mon tana’s version of a national problem. In a poll of its members conducted ear lier this year, the National Education Association found that 55% of re spondents were consider ing leaving the teaching profession in the wake of the COVID-19 pan demic. The organization cited low pay as one of the primary factors impacting educator retention across the country, along with stress and the increased politicization of public education.“Teachers are having to choose between moving into a different profession, which is probably going to be less stress and less work on them for more money, or staying in the profession and forego ing buying a new car or getting the house with a bigger bedroom, growing their family or saving for their retirement or for their kid’s college,” Montana Federation of Public Employees Presi dent Amanda Curtis said. “That’s not a position any

At the state level, Mon tana School Boards Asso ciation Executive Director Lance Melton said recent legislative sessions have produced considerable in vestments toward teacher loan repayment. Teachers taking jobs in the state’s smaller districts can net a “pretty sizable amount” of public funding to pay down the costs of their education — as much as $4,000 per year for their first three years — Melton said.“That’s a fairly sig nificant forlikeourpeoplegenerallycareer,”todesignedimprovementtogetsomebodycomeinearlyintheirMeltonsaid.“Andspeaking,oncestartworkingforschools,theyreallytocontinuetoworkthem.”Oneofthehighest-pro

“I could understand why a district would say, ‘Well, you know, I’ve got five staff that would qualify, but collectively, at $5,000 apiece below the target, that’s $25,000, and I’m only going to get $15,000 if I bring them up,” said Melton, who helped draft HB 143. “I’ve got to find that other $10,000 and I’ve got to be able to bargain that out with the teachers in the district.”Forindividual teachers who did benefit from their districts taking ad vantage of the added state funding, Curtis said it “made a big impact.” Any increase in pay for some one who can’t otherwise afford housing or other necessary expenses is a big deal, she continued. At a larger scale, though, Curtis said the success of HB 143 so far has been “negligible” in terms of the percentage of teachers and districts impacted.

As the 2022 fall se mester opened this week, news reports continued to paint a bleak picture about Montana’s ongoing teacher shortage. The latest figures from OPI on educator shortages, presented to lawmakers in January, showed schools statewide were struggling to fill more than 1,000 vacant positions during the 2021-22 school year through a variety of meth ods, including provisional licensing for teachers. Many of the highest-need areas for recruitment con tinue to be in elementary education, music and sup port services for students with special needs.

file efforts to move the needle on teacher pay statewide came during the 2021 Montana Leg islature. House Bill 143, dubbed the “TEACH Act,” sought to incentivize local increases to starting teacher salaries by offering districts additional state funding to offset the ex pense. For most districts in the state, that meant raising their base teacher salary to $34,720 in order to qualify for an extra $3,472 state payment for each first-, second- and third-year teacher. For the state’s seven largest districts, qualifying for the incentive required raising base teacher pay to 70% of the district’s average educator salary.

Montana.”Searchfor Solitions

see page 19

“The bill said if you pay teachers more, then you’ll get more money. But how can the schools pay teach ers more if the schools don’t have the money to pay the teachers?” she added. “So it’s really an equitable school funding issue, and there are so many other ways to get at pay for teachers or for

teachers

September 21, 2022 - 17Valley Journal APPLYWHATYOUWILLLEARNATSKCIN THEFUTURETOHELPYOURFAMILYAND COMMUNITYTHRIVE. SUCCESS FORMORE 406-275-4800 SKC.edu Serving Lake County since 1923 Attention lenders: Consider having your title work done by friendly professionals at a locally owned and operated title company that has stood the test of time! We offer complete, reliable title services in our conveniently located office in downtown Polson. Lake AbstractCounty&Title Co. 314 First Street East • Suite 101 Polson, Montana 59860 (406) 883-6226 www.lctitles.com We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and your clients! Montana Land Title Association and American Land Title Association Member

Teacher pay has routinely surfaced as one of the primary challenges Montana schools face in recruiting and retaining educators. The issue speaks not only to the state’s ongoing teacher shortage, but to the in creasing financial pressures on Montanans of all walks of life. Housing costs in many parts of Montana, including Bozeman, Missoula and Kalispell, have skyrocketed in recent years, and a poll conducted this spring found that 77% of Montana respondents considered lack of affordable housing an “ex tremely serious” or “very seri ous”

latest data, Montana’s average starting teacher salary during the 2020-21 school year was $32,495 — the lowest in the country.Dana Holland has taught at Bozeman High School for six years. Her district is do ing “a lot of things right,” she said, and she counts herself lucky to live in a dual-income household, which has helped alleviate some of the financial pressures of juggling a modest paycheck and rising prices. But the increased cost of housing in the Gallatin valley has proved a deterrent for some prospective hires. The district is already spending roughly 90% of its budget on employee pay, she said, and still she’s aware of see

page 18

“I’d have to spend literally half a month’s salary on that,” DeJohn said. “Or if I look at buying a house, then a mort gage payment would be more than that.”

How Montana is trying to solve its struggles with teacher pay

MONTANA — Olivia DeJohn laughs as she chalks up having found a classroom she loves so early in her teach ing career to serendipity. She teaches second grade at Mis soula’s Paxson Elementary School, a job she quips “fell into my lap.” She did her stu dent teaching at Paxson while

By Alex MontanaSakariassenFreePress

Exacerbatingproblem. the problem of living expenses is the issue of income. According to the Na tional Education Association’s

As the cost of living rises, teacher pay in Montana remains well below the national average, with negative effects on teacher recruitment and retention.

getting her master’s degree at the University of Montana and, as a result, was asked to serve as a long-term substitute for an educator who had to go on leave.“Originally when I heard second grade, I was like, ‘Oh, that’s not what I want. They’re so young. I don’t know if I can do that,’” she recalled in a recent interview. “Now I never want to do anything else, be cause second grade is actually amazing.”Thisfall marks DeJohn’s third full year on Paxson’s staff. The work falls in line with what drew her to the profes sion in the first place — a de sire to “do some kind of public good” — and from day one the pay was better than any

thing she’d been accustomed to in the past. She’s quick to acknowledge that she doesn’t spend much in her personal life. She doesn’t have children, so she doesn’t have to budget for daycare. She rides her bike in town instead of driving, so she hasn’t had to contend with the recent spike in gas prices. But even with the higher start ing wage her master’s degree netted her, a teacher’s salary begins to sound low when she thinks about renting a place of her own. DeJohn, 31, currently lives with two roommates.

according to information compiled for the Montana Legislature by the Ed ucation Commission of the States in 2016, other states including Arkansas and Delaware offer simi lar state-sponsored benefit programs. Curtis said she’s broached the subject with lawmakers and with Gianforte’s office several times, and believes that Montana’s recent windfall of federal COVID-19 relief funding presents a rare opportunity in the state’s history to make such an whetherlotsCurtissinglethatwouldfrom“We’veinvestment.heardtestimonythestatethattheybewillingtodoaslongasitwaseveryschoolemployee,”said.“Sowe’vegotofquestionsaboutthey’reactually

September 21, 2022 - 19Valley Journal H E A L T H E D U C A T I O N F A M I L Y G A M E S D R Y M E A T P H O T O B O O T H P R I Z E S A N D M O R E ! Harvest Fest C S K T T R I B A L H E A L T H A L L E V E N T S 4 : 3 0 - 7 : 3 0 P M A R L E E S E P T E M B E R 7 | T H C O M M U N I T Y C E N T E R D I X O N S E P T E M B E R 1 4 | D I X O N A G E N C Y H O T S P R I N G S | S E P T E M B E R 2 1 | H O T S R P I N G S C I T Y P A R K E L M O | S E P T E M B E R 2 8 | T R I B A L H E A L T H C E N T E R K I C K I N G H O R S E | O C T O B E R 5 | T H F I T N E S S C E N T E R S T I G N A T I U S | O C T O B E R 1 2 | T H F I T N E S S C E N T E R 2022 DISCOUNTSEARLYBIRDare now availablefor2023seasonpasses! Located 3 miles west of Ronan on Round Butte Road 46664 Golf Course Way • 676-GOLF (4653) New members can purchase now and play the remainder of this year! Holiday parties are better at the Cantina Grill and Supper Club. Book early to make sure you get the date you want.

Besides, she added, it’s not like teacher pay is exclu sively a Montana problem.

going to open a door to make that happen and whether they’re going to use any of this one-time money to make that hap pen.”Parman said such a move would help con tain insurance costs for districts and ensure that more money can “go into the pockets of teachers” in those districts. Melton agreed, noting that sta bilizing rates could bring “significant and positive change” to the education landscape. Melton doesn’t expect that the state’s edu cation associations will be able to “take the edge off the politics” on that issue, but vowed that his orga nization and others will be there to remind policy makers that a free quality education in Montana is “on the level of a constitu tional“Youguarantee.”can’tdothat with something basic or rudi mentary or uninspiring,” he said. “It calls for sort of, almost like a heroic measure.”Salomon also predicted that the coming legislative session will likely feature debate about inflation adjustments for public school funding. Those adjustments, which occur as a matter of course ev ery session, are capped in state law at 3%. Inflation soared well beyond that this summer, with the Consumer Price Index reaching 9.1% in June. Rep. David Bedey, the Hamilton Republican who chairs the Legisla ture’s Education Interim Budget Committee, said

Salomon echoed Bedey’s assessment, adding that the inflation cap “may rightfully be something that we should take a look at.”Among the biggest concerns driving the search for solutions is the fear that failing to find one will result in Montana losing quality educators to nearby states like North Dakota, Idaho and Wyoming. According to the National Education Association, the starting salary for teachers in each of those states is at least $7,000 higher. The dispar ities diminish over time as teachers move up the pay

the current state cap could be “a major challenge” for lawmakers as they wrestle with how to adjust Mon tana’s education budget.

scale, but as Piper noted in MFPE’s analysis, those increases are “a long way in the future” for recent college graduates begin ning their careers.

DeJohn is now firmly settled in at Paxson. It’s a “wonderful place,” she said, where she works with “a lot of amazing people.” She said she can imagine moving some where where teachers are paid more and the cost of living is cheaper, but there’s no guarantee of finding as good a fit as she’s found at Paxson.

Curtis noted that Washington state recently established a statewide insurance pool for all pub lic school employees, and

“It’s hard to look at it as just a state issue because it is pretty much a country wide issue.” vj

teachers from page 18

ferent situations for larger and smaller districts. The former can absorb higher health care costs among employees because their overall pool is larger, he said. But for smaller dis tricts, limited pool sizes can drive rates up, as there are fewer payers to bear the“We’recosts. trying to hit something that encom passes as many people as possible, and there would be some give and take that would have to be done,” Salomon said. “It’s a difficult nut to crack.”

recommendations for Director Worsech. The recommenda tions were reviewed by FWP staff to assess implementa tion. The recommendations were also evaluated for their fiscal impact to FWP. The staff evaluations, fiscal impact, and full text of the group’s recommendations are available online, where people can also provide comment. The 15 issues are; Access Plus Pro gram; Choose Your Weap on/Season; Collaboration between FWP, USFS, BLM & DNRC and Any Other Perti nent Local, State, or Federal Land Management Agencies; Create an A9 Tag Bundle; De velop User Friendly and Effective Methods to Collect Data; Establish (where pos sible) Localized Elk Working

reation, range, timber, energy production, and other uses, and conservation of wilderness, refuges, watersheds, wildlife habitat, and other values.

Interior Department issues guidance to strengthen tribal co-stewardship of public lands, waters

WASHINGTON — The Department of the Interior released new guidance to im prove federal stewardship of public lands, waters and wild life by strengthening the role of Tribal governments in federal land management. New guid ance from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Park Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)out lines how each bureau will fa cilitate and support agreements with Tribes to collaborate in the co-stewardship of federal lands and waters.

Restoration in Montana: On January 2, 2022, the Confed erated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) assumed full management of the Bison Range. The FWS and CSKT continue to partner together to ensure the land and resources are managed at a high-level including prioritizing much needed improvements to ad dress deferred maintenance to enhance safety to the public andThewildlife.Interior Department is responsible for the man agement of millions of acres of federal lands and waters that were previously owned and managed by Tribes and also manages many important natural and cultural resourc es that once belonged to the Native Hawaiian Community. Those lands and waters contain cultural and natural resources of significance and value to Indigenous peoples, including

Mission Valley Children’s Choir to begin again

News from the Departmemt of the Interior

sacred religious sites, burial sites, wildlife and its habitat, and sources of Indigenous foods and medicines. In addi tion, many of those lands and waters lie within areas where Tribes have the reserved right to hunt, fish, gather plants, and pray pursuant to ratified treaties and other long-stand ing legal agreements with the United States.

20 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

The Department is commit ted to ensuring that decisions relating to co-stewardship will continue to advance safeguards for traditional subsistence, cul tural practices, trust interests and treaty rights for Tribes. Each bureau publishing guid ance today is taking steps to ensure that Tribal governments play an integral role in the continued management of fed eral lands and waters through consultation, capacity-building, and partnerships consistent with federal authority.

Groups; Expanded Hunter Education; Promote Focused Damage Hunts; Improve Ac cessibility to the FWP Videos, Programs, PSAs, etc. that Promote the Desired Behav iors between Landowners and Hunters; FWP Land owner Liaison; We have to Manage Elk Where They Are Not; Understand and Mitigate the Disease of Brucellosis in Elk; Use of Shoulder Sea sons; Stakeholder Meet ings; Enforce Stricter Penal ties for Trespassing and Other Bad Behaviors by Hunters and commentdations.tunities/emcag-recommenfwp/public-comment-opporto;dationsToLandowners.reviewtherecommenandtocomment,gohttps;//fwp.mt.gov/aboutThedeadlineforis5p.m.Oct.14.

RONAN — The Mission Valley Children’s Choir will begin its seventh year on Tuesday, Oct. 4 at the Faith Lutheran Church, 406 5th Ave. SW in Ronan. Refreshments and “together time” will begin at 3:40 p.m., and rehearsals will be held from 4 – 5 p.m. every Tuesday. The choir is open to children from the Mission Valley in grades 2-6. Choir directors are Mrs. Cathy Gillhouse and Pastor Seth Nelson, accompanied by Wen dy Sanders. Refreshments will be served each week and participation is free of charge.

HELENA — The suite of recommendations developed by the Elk Management Citizen Advisory Group are available for public review and comment.Thegroup was organized this past spring by FWP director Hank Worsech to develop recommendations on elk management issues and to improve relationships be tween stakeholders interested in improving elk management. The group was composed of 12 citizens who represent a broad range of viewpoints andTheexperience.groupheld 10 facili tated, public meetings and grappled with a variety of issues, settling on a list of 15

Elk management recommendations released for comment

climate change, Indigenous knowledge will benefit the Department’s efforts to bolster resilience and protect all com munities,” said Secretary Deb Haaland. “By acknowledging and empowering Tribes as partners in co-stewardship of our country’s lands and waters, every American will benefit from strengthened manage ment of our federal land and resources.”Inmanaging public lands and waters, the Department is charged with trust responsibil ity and treaty rights to protect American Indian and Alaska Native Tribal interests and further the prioritiesto,componentscontinuesultationwaiianobligationsrelationship,nation-to-nationandwithdistincttotheNativeHaCommunity.Tribalconandcollaborationwilltobeimplementedasof,orinadditionfederallandmanagementanddirectionforrec

The guidance will help fur ther the directives from Joint Secretarial Order 3403 –signed by the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture during the 2021 White House Tribal Nations Summit –which outlines how the two Departments will strengthen Tribal co-stewardship efforts. The guidance also outlines how agreements might proceed with Alaska Native corpora tions and the Native Hawaiian Community.SincetheJoint Secretarial Order was signed, the Interior Department has celebrated a number of co-stewardship agreements, including a local agreement: Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Bison Range

Pastor Nelson or Gillhouse will walk the children who attend K. Wm Harvey to the church. They meet at the flag pole in front of the school. It is the directors’ 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.

News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

Gillhouse is the former Ronan School Choir teacher and director of the Ronan Show Choir. She taught music for 41 years, has played harp for the University of Montana, and has been in many Port Polson Play ersPastorproductions.Nelson has been partic ipating in choirs for 26 years. He composes and performs his own music and has had several years of teaching experiences. He has also sung internationally. He will direct the choir and accompany the choir on guitar and Gillhousedrums.andPastor Nelson are very excited about directing the choir for its seventh year. They hope it continues to be a fun and education al activity for Mission Valley children. For more information call Seth Nel son at (406) 546-7323 or email him at flc@ronan.net, or call Cathy Gillhouse at (406) 207-3032.

“From wildfire prevention to managing drought and fam ine, our ancestors have used nature-based approaches to coexist among our lands, wa ters, wildlife and their habitats for millennia. As communities continue to face the effects of

September 21, 2022 - 21Valley Journal

Polson Fly-in

22 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal CRYPTO-QUOTE PUZZLES ACROSS 1 Interpretation 5 Left on board? 9 Smartphone array 13 Church reading 18 Falafel bread 19 Civil rights leader Medgar 21 Vault 22 Submit for judging 23 Bind with a cord 24 Piece of history 25 Gumbo pod 26 Lines on GPS displays 27 Vague amount 28 Prompt to a Twister player? 31 Over the speed limit 33 Glove material 34 Half-baked, as a plan 37 Impulse 38 Bursts 40 Former NBA star Ming 42 Figs. 43 Correspond 45 Encouragement to a Yahtzee player? 50 One in a dory 51 Biblical preposition 52 Dory’s companion 53 “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” co-star 54 Psychology 101 subject 55 Brief times, briefly 57 Coarse 59 Heavenly octet 61 Benchmark 63 “Salt Fat __ Heat”: Samin Nosrat cookbook 65 “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” co-star 67 D’backs, on a sports ticker 68 Actor Alan who hosts the podcast“Clear+Vivid” 69 Sad request to one’s Hangman opponent? 72 Microwaves 76 “Summertime Sadness” singer Lana __ Rey 78 Equally matched 79 Climate change sci. 80 Entertainment industry grand slam, for short 81 Diminished 85 Vegas calculation 87 Arborist’s patient 89 Atmosphere 90 One way to think 91 Prosecco kin 93 Trim, perhaps 95 Originate 97 Advice to a checkers player? 100 Connective tissue 101 Sports drink suffix 102 Sculling need 103 Botanist Gray and actor Butterfield 104 Crown array 105 __ opener 108 Like the River Shannon 111 Forced (on) 114 Prayer for a chess player? 118 Damage 119 Geometry surface 121 “A __ technicality!” 122 Real doozies 123 Globetrotter’s need 124 Knuckle or knee 125 Prune, before drying 126 Singer Ronstadt 127 Turn over __ leaf 128 Some TVs 129 Fed. IDs 130 Over 131 Spill the beans DOWN 1 shieldBug-hitting-the-windsound 2 Yamaha with a bench seat 3 With opponent?one’sassertion73-Down,toScrabble 4 “Not gonna happen” 5 Read 6 1980 Olympics track medalist Steve 7 Count (on) 8 The Jonas Brothers, e.g. 9 In flight 10 Black tea 11 Sudden burst of emotion 12 Quarrel 13 Woman on Argentina’s 100 peso note 14 Bamboozles 15 Slanted 16 Spearheaded 17 “__ America”: 2020 miniseries about the ERA movement 20 Artist who works with a chisel 28 On-call devices 29 Impetuous 30 French fashion giant 32 Priceless? 35 Like two 2015 Max Scherzer games 36 Will of “Blue Bloods” 38 Thoughtful 39 Classical pianist Alice Sara __ 41 Resting on 43 Sports stadium 44 Nikolai who wrote “The Overcoat” 45 Italian fashion giant 46 __ pale ale 47 Do a slow burn 48 Allowing access 49 Charge, in a way 56 Philadelphia NFLer 58 Overturn 60 Chili scoop 62 Fabricated 64 Dedicate, as time 66 Strategic steps 70 First-aid dispenser 71 Opposite of sur 73 See 3-Down 74 Grace under fire 75 Spread around 77 Medieval collectionIcelandic 81 Hindu royalty 82 Give the slip 83 “Huh?” 84 Survey results, e.g. 86 Beachcombing prize 88 Enter gingerly 92 Dries up 94 Strands in a lab 96 Wheel parts 98 Lots and lots 99 __ out: resolve 104 Attacks 106 Jazz Rollinssaxophonist 107 “Waiting for Lefty” dramatist Clifford 109 TV Land fare 110 Agenda entries 111 Extended conflicts 112 Stand for something? 113 Southern twang 115 Roadie’s vanload 116 Witticism 117 Pinkie-side arm bone 119 Comfy loungewear 120 Lav 123 Napa Valley tub LOS ANGELES TIMES SUNDAY CROSSWORD PUZZLE One letter stands in for another. Single letters, apostrophes, word length and formation of the words are all hints. Each week the key is different. EUZDNKTOTKN MWU KUUP TS MWU QETAGER ZDKPTMTDK IDE PUSTNK. - ZWGEHUS UGAUS ©2022 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. Ben Stone / Valley Journal “Game Day” By Lynn Lempel Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis QUICKSILVER EXPRESSO Come in for: • Soup & Sandwiches • Coffee Bar • Free Wi-Fi • Ice Cream • Car Wash & Vacuum • Laundromat • ATM • Flathead JeffersonTransit/Lineconnect selectionHUGEofsnacks&beverages!! 7 days a week Monday- Friday 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. TAKE A BREAK! 51999 US 93 • PABLO (near the walking bridge in 675-5000Pablo) Full EspressoServiceBar

Your inbox may be flooded with invitations in the upcoming week. Keep in close contact with neigh bors and follow up on or social obligations. Real friends want you for more than your money and influence.

Focus on using organizational skills and diligence to become more efficient. Do not hesitate to grant someone a favor in the upcoming week.

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

You might realize that you enjoy a change of pace and become intensely involved in something new and exciting. When necessary, you can ask for forgiveness but don’t take anything or anyone for granted in the week ahead.

Work hard to increase your awareness, so you don’t overlook any mistakes or be blind to your own social blunders in the week to come. You might be inspired by a great piece of information.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18):

By: Magi Helena for the Week of Sept. 18, 2022 TRIBUNE AGENCY, LLC.

Weigh out price versus value with care. It might be necessary to spend a little more to get some thing more satisfying in the week ahead. Concentrate on generosity to guarantee long-term security.

A partner or loved one can provide the means that help you achieve your ends. As the week unfolds, there may be times you are not on the same wavelength. Wait until any distracting problem has been dealt with.

One trick to overcoming obstacles is patience and self-discipline.

Make sure you are always trustworthy. You might not always get your way in the week ahead, but few will doubt your sincerity. Sidestep occasional misunder standings; don’t get pulled in to someone else’s circus.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20):

Crank up your enthusiasm and a competitive spirit without letting it stress you out. Remain levelhead ed and don’t let your emotions dictate your actions as the week progresses. Focus on using your common sense.

COMICS

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19):

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20):

CANCER (June 21-July 22):

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22):

As you speed your way to the top in the week ahead, be careful not to trample on anyone’s toes. Consider whether what you are doing gives you real pleasure or is just some thing you doing for validation.

Use skillful chess moves to take command of your side of the board. Since you likely have good judgment and a vision of what can be accomplished, this is a good week to focus on creating lasting financial security.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22):

CONTENT

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):

GEMINI (May 21-June 20):

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21):

Use willpower to overcome obstacles and sincerity to instill trust. Someone who is suspicious of your motives could be reassured in the week ahead. Always be wise enough to acknowledge the things you do not know.

Put sound business tactics and strategies into action in the week to come. An adversary or loved one may not feel that some of the rules are fair or equitable. However, your gentle approach should convince them otherwise.

September 21, 2022 - 23Valley Journal Answers on page 28

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21):

ARIES (March 21-April 19):

years, just ask her parents. She has been perform ing for audiences since 2016. She was a librarian for two years, delighting students weekly with folk tales, myths, stories from literature, and inspiring records from real life. She has performed in schools, festivals, backyards, and living rooms across Mon tana, Idaho, Washington, Utah, and all the way to Florida.After being a showcase teller for two years, she

many years to come, then purchase your brick at: ingbrick.com/online-orders/missionhttps://www.fundrais

POLSON — Come to the Elks Lodge, 512 Main Street, on Saturday, Oct. 1 from 1-5 p.m. to support your local Mission Valley Animal Shelter and Life Savers Animal Rescue. Tickets are only $25 and will be available for purchase at the door or call 406890-1405, 406-676-4200 or 406-242-0501. There will be a silent auction for everyone to bid on and several vendors. All funds and proceeds go directly to Life Savers Animal Rescue and Mission Valley Animal Shelter. There will be Zumba dancing. Dona tions are welcome.

MV Super Oval holds online fundraiser

drain and dry your boat.

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library hosts Montana day,MoTales“ConnectingConversation:withFolkandFables”withReynoldsonThursSept.22at5:30

If you would like to be a part of the Mission Valley Super Oval for

The North Lake County Public Library hosts Montana Conversation

‘Dance your Paws Off’ event planned

More than 84,000 AIS inspections conducted so far this season

- Non-residents transporting watercraft into Montana must purchase a Vessel AIS Preven tion Pass before launching. The fee is $30 for motorized and $10 for nonmotorized watercraft. The pass is valid until Dec. 31.

News from Montana FWP

p.m. The program is at the library in Polson in the large meeting room. This presentation is free and open to the public. Funding for much.everyonewith,privatetana’stheNationalthroughbyConversationsMontanaisprovidedHumanitiesMontanagrantsfromtheEndowmentforHumanities,MonCulturalTrustanddonations.Greatadventuresbegin“Onceuponatime,”knowsthatButsomeofthe

valley/.Wehave been selling a few bricks here and there and need your help to sell some more so that we can fill up this space.

celebrating something or someone. Your personalized brick will be placed with the others near the front gate for everyone to see. We have had people memorialize champi onships or simply just place their names on a brick. In doing this you become part of the Mission Valley forever.Sodon’t miss this opportunity to purchase yours now.

Fall is a good time to detect new AIS populations in Montana waters

If you suspect an AIS popula tion, take a photo, grab a speci men and contact FWP to report it 406-444-2449.Morethan1,500 early-de tection samples have been processed this season, and no evidence of mussels has been detected in Montana waters.

We have currently placed the 80 or so bricks that we have and they are looking sharp.

This is a great way to get involved and help support the Mission Valley Super Oval, while memorializing or

So far this year, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and its partners have inspected more than 84,000 watercrafts, 46 of which were mussel-fouled and 300 were found with aquatic weeds.FWP asks for the public’s help with AIS early detection. Fall is the best time to detect new AIS populations. Low water levels and the end of the growing season is a great time to detect new populations of AIS.

MONTANA — It’s import ant to continue to clean, drain and dry your boat and gear when you recreate on the water to prevent the potential spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS).

As a reminder, all boats must stop at all open watercraft in spection stations they encoun ter. Failure to do so could result in a fine of up to $500. Some

- Inspection is required for Montana residents before launch IF: the boat is entering the state, crossing west over the Continental Divide or entering the Flathead Basin.

was invited to be a fea tured storyteller at the Florida Storytelling Fes tival in 2020. Mo recently earned the “Diamonds in the Dust” Diamond Award Scholarship in 2020 to help build her YouTube channel, where she posts storytelling epi sodes to spread the art to a broad audience around theForworld.more information, please call the North Lake County Public Li brary at 406-883-8225.

greatest adventures begin with the words, “Did I ever tell you about that timeListening…” to stories and telling our own fosters connection, thought, and real life application of timeless truths.

inspection stations will begin shutting down after Labor Day, while others will operate into October.Tofind a watercraft inspec tion station or to learn more, go to CleanDrainDryMT.com or call the FWP AIS Bureau at 406-444-2440.Inadditionto stopping at all watercraft inspection stations, boaters need to follow these rules:-Be sure to always clean,

24 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

Mo Reynolds is a pro fessional storyteller that weaves folk tales with personal narratives, draw ing connections along the way and inviting listeners to be a part of the story. Every performance is a

News from North Lake County Public Library

unique experience. The performance can include a workshop element, helping members of the community tap into their own stories and build connections with others through stories. Sharing and listening to stories fosters connection, empa thy, and unity. Connect ing them to folk tales and fables anchor them in a way that is both unique andMouniversal.Reynolds has been telling stories for many

The Mission Valley Super Oval is once again selling bricks with a cus tom engraving of your choice. These bricks will be located for everyone to see as you enter the main gate on the spectator side.

“Connecting with Folk Tales and Fables” with Mo Reynolds

The mountains that he loved and the lake that he sailed will be well within view. Age, can cer and a life well lived wore out his body, but he had no regrets. He did his duty, he served his country, he demonstrated honor and set a good ex ample for all of us to fol low. He truly had a long, high flight.

Arlee

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For Information Call Flathead Transit Weekdays: 406-275-2792 • Weekends 406-675-500For more information call Flathead Transit Weekdays: 406-275-2792 Weekends: 406-675-5000 NEW LOCATION!

Lakeside

ple. He also attended and enjoyed the congregation of the First Presbyterian Church of Polson where he met Mondays and Wednesdays with men who helped to solve the problems of the world.

Pablo

92345 US Hwy 93, Arlee• 406-275-2792 US Hwy 93, Ravalli• 406-275-2792 Mnt View Dr, St. Ignatius• 406-275-2792 • 52001 US Hwy 93 Weekdays: 406-275-2792 Weekends 406-675-5000 US Hwy 93, Polson• 406-275-2792

Missoula

James targetsforheJohnCrossaforthetakeInF-101avoriteduringflewoftuallyahegraduatingAirdreamForcethecollege,highJimmovedArdithWallaceCounty,1932,Jimawife,byattendedHeHospital.St.2022,Sept.6worldoutson,BoydPOLSONPayson—JamesPayson,89,ofPoltookhislastflightofthisatp.m.on10,atJosephwashisson,andfriend.wasbornonOct.22,inCenterville,ClaySouthDakotatoW.PaysonandB.Payson.In1936thefamilytoMissoulawhereeventuallygraduatedschool,attendedandlaterjoinedUnitedStatesAirtopursuehisofbecominganForcepilot.Aftercadetschool,wascommissionedas2ndlieutenant,evenreachingtherankmajor.Althoughheavarietyofaircrafthiscareer,hisfaassignmentwasasreconnaissancepilotinandF-4airplanes.1962hewassenttothefirstpicturesofCubanMissilesiteswhichhereceivedDistinguishedFlyingfromPresidentF.Kennedy.In1967earnedanotherDFCpictureshemadeofdeepinNorth

3:10 PM 4:00 PM Pablo 52001 US

Evaro

Saint Ignatius 240

Whitefish #9

Survivors include his wife, Lorraine of Polson;, his son, Steven of Lame sa, Texas; his grandson, Erik Payson of Lamesa, Texas; his sister, Mary Payson Martin of Polson; his sister, Susan Payson of Vancouver, Washing ton; six nephews, numer ous friends, and countless others who were helped and had the privilege of working with him.

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Vietnam. He survived the Tet Offensive of Sai gon.On Feb. 5, 1956, he was married to Lor raine Thompson whom he met on a blind date. They were married 66.5 years. On Feb. 24, 1958, his daughter, Linda D. Payson was born in Mis soula. She died in Polson on Sept. 19, 2012. In Okinawa, Japan he be came the father of Steven B. Payson on April 20, 1960. On July 26, 1988, his only grandchild, Erik B. Payson, came into this world.James retired from the Air Force in 1973 and proceeded to collect five college degrees, four from Louisiana Tech University and a Doctor of Education from East Texas State University. Upon graduation in 1977 he began his teaching career at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana, where he rose to the office of Depart ment head for Psycholo gy and eventually retiring in After1997.retiring, he bought a motorhome and spent 20 years traveling between his two homes in Minneola, Florida, and Polson. He enjoyed trav eling, back packing, sail ing, woodworking, pho tography, and just about any new gadget. He was a Shriner and Mason. He was very active in repair ing the houses, cars and electronics of other peo

Ravalli 27330

A celebration of life ceremony will be held in the future. His body has been cremated and he will reside at the Lakev iew Cemetery in the box next to his daughter. Memories and condo lences may be sent to the family at: matory.Funeraldercom.neralhomeandcremation.www.lakefuArrangementsareunthecareofTheLakeHomeandCre Stop Stop PM PM PM Hwy 93, Pablo 406-275-2792 Weekends 406-675-5000

Polson 49708

7170 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-275-2792 3rd Ave. East N (Smith Foods) 406-275-2792 Spokane Ave., Whitefish• 406-275-2792

Kalispell / Evergreen 195

James Payson For Information Call Weekdays: 406-275-2792 Weekends 406-675-500 10:00 AM 11:30 AM 7:30 PM 11:50 AM 7:05 PM 12:00 PM 6:50 PM Flag

obituaries

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September 21, 2022 - 25Valley Journal

1660 W Broadway St • 406-549-2339

20750 US Hwy 93, Missoula• 406-275-2792

births

McDonald of Babb. Paternal grandparents are the late Rita Redneck of Lame Deer and the late Walter Blackwolf of Lame Deer.Maizee

grandparents are Robert and Kerri Moore. CroffgrandparentsKraigJeanThunder’sweighedderPlace.ter’sMedicalSt.Providence8,bornThunderBlackwolf.Thunderbabybirthsoow,Kyleigh,Tessa,ivia,Polson.andentsounces.pounds,weighedCenter.ningsNewthe5,bornMarkusnethgreat-grandparentsPaternalareKenandSheilaCathey.AriahMarkusRONAN—AriahSagewasonSept.2022,atSt.LukeBeginBirthShe913ParareJerryDaphneMarkusofThunderBlackwolfPOLSON—Mykah,OlGracie,Josiah,Lynell,Shawna,DanielJr,Jaja,Adrian,MeadKayleighandPresleyareexcitedtoannouncetheoftheirbrother,RywasAug.2022,atJosephCenNestingThunwas21incheslongand8pounds,2ounces.parentsareJessieMcDonaldandDanielBlackwolfSr.MaternalareMelanieofBrowningandSam

RONAN — Maizee Jean Orr was born on Sept. 12, 2022, at the St. Luke Com munity Healthcare New Beginnings Birth Center. She weighed 9 pounds, 13 MaternalersVickieofDennisparentsternalCharlo.SeriDennisParentsounces.areandOrrofPagrandareOrrPabloandRogofRonan.grandparents are Steve and Leslie Smith of Ronan. Maizee joins sibling, Finn.

POLSON — Orin Lee Yonkin was born on June 11, 2022, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s ternalofJesseLeeAnnparentsounces.7andinchesthree-quarterwasPlace.NestingOrin20andlongweighedpounds,11Orin’sareandYonkinPolson.Pagrandparents

and Wendella Wadsworth. Paternal great-grandparents are Donna PatrickPOLSONFinnianWadsworth.Devlin—FinnianDevlinwasborn on July 5, 2022, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place in Polson. Fin nian was 20 inches long and weighed 6 pounds, 13.9 ounces. Fin nian’s parents are aregrandparentsson.DevlinandKatherineNicholasofPolMaternalRichardand

Orr

26 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

Kannon’s parents are Kelsie and Trevor Wadsworth of Ronan. Ma ternal grandparents are Jody Jones and Chris Adler. Ma ternal great-grandparents are Lori and Creig Lillethun. Pa ternal grandparents are Dan

Adley Oborne

POLSON — Declan Moore is pleased to announce the arrival of his baby brother, Levi James Moore. Levi was born on June 24, 2022, at Providence St. Joseph Med ical Center’s Nesting Place. Levi was 22 inches long and weighed 9 andaregrandparentsson.MooreandareLevi’s12pounds,ounces.parentsEristinaMichaelofPolMaternalScottShariAllen. andgreat-grandparentsMaternalareGreerDarleneAllen.Paternal

Levi Moore

are Suzi and Dan Yonkin.

Orin Yonkin

Paternal grandparents are Todd Os borne and Jeanine Linton of Clark Fork, Idaho. Maternal grandparents are Brian and Jessica Robinson of Ronan. Adley joins siblings Gage and Gracyn.Kannon Wadsworth

Sandra Neis. Paternal grandparents are Jef frey and Grace Devlin.

WadsworthKannonOborneAdley FinnianDevlin BlackwolfThunder MooreLevi YonkinOrin MarkusAriah MaizeeOrr MAVERICK GIFTS&THREADSMEN’STHE FREE1GET2BUY SHORTS&T-SHIRTSALL VALUELESSEROREQUAL* Polson.downtownbuilding,NestCrow’sformertheIn PolsonB,SuiteSt.Main214 • 406-319-2199

POLSON — Kenzley and Kelson are happy to announce the arrival of their baby brother, Kannon Ray 8andinchesnonPlace.ter’sMedicalSt.Providence26,bornKannonWadsworth.wasonJune2022,atJosephCenNestingKanwas21.5longweighedpounds,7ounces.

RONAN — Adley Nicole Oborne was born on Sept. 12, 2022, at the St. Luke RobinsonChristineOsborneentsounces.pounds,weighedCenter.ningsNewHealthcareCommunityBeginBirthShe68ParareZachandofRonan.

The St. Ignatius Senior Citizen Center is open Tuesday and Friday for lunch at —Menu:noon.Friday,Sept. 23: noon - pizza, green salad, fruit, brownies

News from Barb Plouff for the Valley Journal

Polson

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

Bank and the public for their donations of fresh produce and meat for the Senior Center Nutrition Program.MENU (subject chocolatethelunch-roastBirthdaypear-cheesecorndog,ad,noodle,21:a.m.-12:30out,change): Sit-down,totake-delivery-$5,11:45p.m. —Wednesday,Sept.hamburgerstroganoff,carrots,greensalfruitcobbler—Thursday,Sept.22:tatertot,beet,salad,cookies—Friday,Sept.23:dinnerforpork,withfixings,applesalad,cake—Monday,Sept.

early years of our center we would love to hear from TuesdaysNon-sanctioned,league,Sr.up/informationThird Ave.orseniorcenter@gmail.com,883-4735,p.m.fromdays. Luncha.m.CenterTheyou. PolsonSeniorisopenfrom8to3p.m.onweekisavailable11:45a.m.to12:30weekdays.Call406-email: polsonvisitormailusat504E.ACTIVITIES:“Pitch,”anyone?: SignatPolsonCenter.Bowling: Funpaybytheday.no-tap,1p.m.–weeklyExerciseformobility:Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 10:30 –11:30 a.m. times. Aonelastscoredwhen(pinochlewhogratulationslater12:30foredwelcome.all, 12:30andBridge: Tuesdays Fridays, openforp.m.BeginnersBridgeinstructorwantfornewplayers. Calldetails. Pinochle: Thursdays,–3p.m.(earlierorifyouwish). ContoRandy,hasbeenplayingforfiftyyears.Hestartedplayinghewas12.)Headoublerunweek. Playersscoreortwointheirliferarefeat.

MATT

Veterans’ Rep: The first Friday (Oct. 7) and third Tuesday (Sept. 20) of each month from 10 a.m. -noon

Gentle Yoga takes place on Wednesdays at 1 p.m.Upcoming events: Oct. 7 and 8: rummage sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 7: bake sale 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 15: bingo at 2 p.m

POLSON — We are now celebrating our 50th year serving the Polson area senior cit izens. Come join us. If you have stories from the

September 21, 2022 - 27Valley Journal • Fair and impartial • Upholding the Montana Constitution • Delivering justice for the people of Montana Paid for by Montana Rural Voters Action Fund; Deborah Hanson, Treasurer; P.O. Box 414, Billings, MT 59103 Justice GustafsonIngrid forRe-electMontana Supreme Court

Pool: Open table from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Safe Driver Class: Sept. 22, 9 p.m. Pre-register. Feea.m.-1:30 re quired for class. Discount forThemembers.Nutrition Director thanks the Polson Food

Bingo: Fridays at 7 p.m. - Lots of fun, cash prizes, snacks. Mark your calendars for “Poker” Bingo on the fourth Thursday of each month. Easy to play. No poker skill involved.

ST. IGNATIUS —

— Tuesday, Sept. 27: noon - biscuits, sausage gravy, veggies, fruit, rice Krispies treats

Lunch cost: seniors $4; under 60 $5; 6-12 $3.50; under 6 Take-out$2 orders are available. Please call by 10 a.m. to order. Pick up is by 11:30 a.m.

St. Ignatius

26: Navy bean-ham soup, apple zucchini muffins, carrot raisin salad, tapio ca—puddingTuesday. Sept. 27: barbecue sandwich baked beans, potato chips, green salad, cookies — Wednesday, Sept. 28: chicken enchiladas, Spanish rice, salsa, Mexicorn salad, key lime bars — Thursday, Sept. 29: beef stew in a bread bowl, 3-bean salad, Watergate salad— Friday, Sept. 30: bison cheeseburgers, lettuce, tomato, onion, French fries, grape salad, cookies

ROSENDALE IS FIGHTING MONTANAFOR Paid for by Matt Rosendale for Montana Introduced legislation to help restore America’s energy independence. Voted against Biden’s irresponsible spending package Opposed vaccine mandates. Fought to protect our 2nd Amendment rights. Worked to secure our Southern Border. seniors

— Friday, Sept. 30: noon - Tater Tot casse role with ground beef, green beans, fruit, cook’s choice for dessert

Crypto-Quote Solution

Friday, Sept. 23

Bookmark at the North Lake County Public Library on Friday, Sept. 23 starting at 11 a.m. Learn the basics of cross stitch in the company of fellow bibliophiles by making a one-of-a-kind embroi dered bookmark. Supplies will be provided but limit ed spots are available, so be sure to sign up by calling 406-883-8225 or stopping by the front desk.

28 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

RONAN — Mission West Community De velopment Partners, 407 Main St. SW, is offering a free workshop on Mic

Ronan Schools conduct Child Find screenings

Ronan Farmers Market held RONAN — The Ronan Farmers Market is held every Thursday, May 19Oct. 14, from 4-7 p.m. at the Ronan Visitors’ Center on Highway 93. You can shop online at: localmarketanders-marketlocalline.ca/ronan-farmwww.andpre-orderpre-pay,orgovisitthetoseeeverythingvendorshavetooffer.

Thursday, Sept. 22

RECOGNIZING THE NEED IS THE PRIMARY CONDITION FOR DESIGN.

POLSON — Join PAWsitive Reading Partners at North Lake County Public Library and read with Riley the reading dog for 15 minutes on Wednesday from 3-4 p.m. September 21. Regis tration is required. Sign up for your slot at the library.

Polson Farmers Market held

will take place on Wednes day, Sept. 22. Mo will be our special guest at Story Time at 9:15 a.m. Then, she will return at 5:30 p.m. for a fun program for the whole family. Great ad ventures begin with “Once upon a time,” but, some of the greatest adventures begin with: “Did I ever tell you about that time …” Listening to stories and telling our own fosters connection, thought and real life application of timeless truths. Join professional storyteller Mo Reynolds as she invites listeners to be a part of the story. This program is free and open to the public.

Learn Excel Essentials Level I for free

Learn meditation via Zoom

Wednesday, Sept. 21

Read with Riley

Walk-ins will be subject to availability or scheduled for a later date.

POLSON — Make Your Own Cross Stitch

POLSON — The Polson Farmers Market, downtown at Third Ave. W (in front of the Cove Deli), is open from 9 a.m.1 p.m. every Friday, May through October. The Pol son Farmers Market offers locally produced fresh vegetables, fruits, plants, cut flowers, cheese, eggs, honey, jams and jellies,

- CHARLES EAMES

rosoft Excel Level 1 on Thursday, Sept. 22 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Go com/events/709https://lccdc.ecenterdirect.to:toregister.

POLSON — Thurs days at 9:15 a.m. at the North Lake County Public Library Story Time takes place. The theme for Sept. 22 is “Autumn.” In addition, Montana Con versations; by Humanities Montana: “Connecting with Folk Tales and Fables” with Mo Reynolds

Storyteller joins story time, returns for eve ning program at library

This week's puzzle answers: calendar

lo School District: the Ronan/Pablo School District, along with the CDC Centers, will be conducting their annual Child Find free screening on Friday, Sept. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the K. Wm. Harvey Elementary School. Children, age birth to 5 years 11 months old, will be screened for delays in speech, language, motor skills, and social or basic school readiness requiredAppointmentsskills.areandaretaken on a first-come, first served basis. You may make an appointment for your child by calling Janet at 406676-3390 ext. 7450.

see page 29

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offer ing free online medita tion classes. Please join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednes day, Sept. 21, and on subsequent Wednesdays, for an online meditation class led by Zen gmail.com.orZenkuZoommoreofjoinduringanddeepenp.m. WeWednesdayandtionZenku, includingTeacher,meditainstruction,practicediscussionviaZoom. Theclasseswillbeeachfrom6-7:30willcultivateandourcenteringskillsmeditationpracticetheclass. Pleaseusandtakeadvantagethisopportunity. Forinformationandalinktotheclasscallat847-721-0665emailat: Jerry.Smyers@

RONAN — For children who currently reside in the Ronan-Pab

Make a cross bookmarkstitch

Mission Falls Farmers Market held ST. IGNATIUS — The Mission Falls Farmers Market will be held at the Good Old Days Pavil ion for the final Friday on Sept. 23 from 5-7 p.m. This great local spot allows the St. Ignatius community and beyond to gather and purchase Mon tana-made crafts, produce and food.

Monday, Sept. 26

— The Mission Mountain Area Pedal to Plate event takes place on Saturday, Sept. 24. This 26-mile scenic bike tour at the base of the Mission Mountains follows a winding route through the Jocko Valley near Arlee. Along the way, riders will stop and visit four to five local, sustain able farms with food bites offered at each stop. The ride will be on primar ily rural roads, many of which are gravel (approx

Polson Farmers Market held

POLSON — Join us at 9:15 a.m. for Mother Goose, a North Lake County Public Library program, is geared toward ages 0 to 3, but all are welcome. We encourage parents and caregivers to participate with their chil dren for this early learning time. The doors open at 9 a.m. We are excited to have Gwen Hadrits, who is a Parent Educator/Home Visitor with the Lake County Health Depart ment, join us on Monday, Sept. 26.

Story time takes place at library

RONAN — The Ronan Farmers Market is held ev ery Thursday, May 19-Oct. 14, from 4-7 p.m. at the Ronan Visitors’ Center on Highway 93. You can shop online at: ronan-farmers-marketwww.localline.ca/ and pre-order and pre-pay, or go visit the market to see everything local vendors have to offer.

Technology Program offered: Introduction to the MontanaProjectMemory

The Polson Farmers Market offers locally produced fresh vegetables, fruits, plants, cut flowers, cheese, eggs, honey, jams and jellies, baked goods, meats and poultry, pop sicles, artwork, fabric and craft creations, woodworks, jewelry, and much more.

Irrigators to meet at Mission West

Mondays mean Mother Goose

Learn to code at library

POLSON — On Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 2 p.m. in the large meeting room of the North Lake County Public Library an introduction to the Montana Memory Project. Did you know that the Montana Memory Project provides free access to over 70,000 historic documents, photos, and other digitized objects related to Mon tana heritage? Learn how to search and browse the collections, use yearbooks for genealogy research and add your own opinions or memories as public comments.

POLSON — Join PAWsitive Reading Partners at North Lake County Public Library and read with Riley the reading dog for 15 minutes on Wednesday from 3-4 p.m. SeptemberRegistration28. is required. Sign up for your slot at the library.

September 21, 2022 - 29Valley Journal Pd. For by Rankin for Congress 1645 Parkhill Dr. #3 Billings MTLibertarian59102 Vote for Sam Rankin Corporate, PAC, and lobbyist money has corrupted Congress. I won’t be bought. A woman owns her body, not the government. Join me! rankinforcongress.com New Single “Talk to Me” Available in October on all your favorite music platforms Visit us at www.mtbainmusic.com or checkout our YouTube channel – MTBain Music vj Calendar from page 27

Tuesday, Sept. 27

Cancer support group meets

Wednesday, Sept. 28

be holding their monthly meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022. at 1 p.m. at Mission West Community Development Partners, 407 Main Street SW, upstairs. An elevator is available.

floor of the medical center. For more information call and/orment,thosethose406-261-3304.Thegroupwelcomesrecentlydiagnosed,undergoingtreatcancersurvivors,familymembers.

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library’s Youth Book Club meeting will take place on Friday, Sept. 30 from 3:454:45 p.m. We will discuss our book, “The Ruins of Gorlan.” Please call the library at 406-883-8225 for more information.

RONAN — Flathead Irrigation District will

Saturday, Sept. 24

This program is geared for children 6 and up, but all are welcome.

Youth Book Club holds meeting

baked goods, meats and poultry, popsicles, artwork, fabric and craft creations, woodworks, jewelry, and much more.

MISSION VALLEY

Pedal to Plate includes 26-mile bike tour

Friday, Sept. 30

Thursday, Sept. 29

POLSON — Maker Space Robots return to the North Lake County Library on Sept. 26 at 3:30 p.m. Come to meet our robots Dot and Dash and learn to code with them.

imately seven miles). Be prepared for new farms, a locally-sourced organic food dinner, craft beers, local music and an artisan farmer’s market. Register at: information.forbookperson.JulyofMMAPP.www.bikereg.com/Earlybirdrate$70isavailable.After1thecostis$85perChecktheFacepage:Pedal2Platethemostup-to-date

POLSON — Thurs days at 9:15 a.m. at the North Lake County Public Library Story Time takes place.The theme for Sept. 29 is “Colors.”

POLSON —A Cancer Support Group for anyone affected by cancer meets twice monthly at St. Jo seph Medical Center from noon-1 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of theGatheringsmonth. are informal allowing folks to drop-in when schedules and life permits.Brown-bag lunches are welcome. The group will meet in the Leahy Con ference Room on the third

Ronan Farmers Market held

Read with Riley

POLSON — The Polson Farmers Market, downtown at Third Ave. W (in front of the Cove Deli), is open from 9 a.m.1 p.m. every Friday, May through October.

AttorneysPLLC at Law 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864

SURPLUS PROPERTY AUC

AnnouncementsAuctions

Guns and/or ammunition, old or new.

Mail Clerk/Carrier I. Facilities Services/Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: Equaltana.edu/hr/postings/30400.https://jobs.mon-OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

LegalsLegals

and $1000 deposit. Renter pays utilities. No pets, no smoking unit. Call Jerry at 406-207-4641 for application.

Legal Notice

Irrigation Technician Facil ities Services/Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: Equaledu/postings/30022.https://jobs.montana.OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

For complete job announce ment and application proce dures, click on: montana.edu/postings/30789.https://jobs.EqualOpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

For Lease: 3 bedroom, 2 bath home close to Polson Golf course and Flathead Lake. $2,400 monthly all utilities included. Mother-in-law unit available $1200 monthly. Call 406-249-6689

Ready for something new? We are hiring.

For Rent

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

Electrician (Journeyman)

Journeyman Carpenter Facilities Services/Montana State University - Bozeman.

Custodian IclickcompleteUniversityServices/MontanaFacilitiesState-Bozeman.Forjobannouncementandapplicationprocedures,on:https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/29525.EqualOpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and ad dress of the claimant, and the amount claimed, must either be mailed to JAIME CASTILLO, the Personal Rep resentative, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

/s/ Jaime Castillo

Real Estate

Facilities Services/Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announce ment and application procedures, click on: ings/29373.jobs.montana.edu/hr/posthttps://EqualOpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

Custodian Supervisor I Facilities Services/Montana State University - Bozeman. For complete job announce ment and application proce dures, click on: montana.edu/postings/30799.https://jobs.EqualOpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

Lake house rental Oct 1 thru May 31st. Furnished 2 bed room, 2 bath. No smoking. No pets. Kayaks available. $1000 weekly or $2400 monthly. 406-249-6689

DATED this 16th day of August, 2022.

Email resume, inquiries summer@valleyjournal.netto:

TION – Helena, MT. Online bidding opens on Sept. 17 and ends on Oct. 1. Go to pateauction.com or download the Pate Auction app to your mobile device for listing and details.

*disclaimer - newspapers aren’t your typical 9-5 job. You’ll ...

Facilities Engineer Engineer ing & Utilities/Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: Equaledu/postings/32010https://jobs.montana.OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

classifieds

Meet new people. Get outside. Write stories. Hone your photography skills. Assist advertisers. Learn something new every day. Join our team!

Preventive Maintenance

Project Manager **UPDATED SALARY** Planning, Design & Construction/Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: Equaledu/hr/postings/28323.https://jobs.montana.OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

Reporter / Photographer and Advertising Sales Representative positions open.

WANTEDWantedTO BUY

Telephone: (406) Attorneybill@fgwilliamslaw.com676-4470forPersonalRepresentativeMONTANATWENTIETHJUDICIALDISTRICTCOURT,LAKECOUNTYINTHEMATTEROFTHEESTATEOFCHARLESD.JACQUIER,Deceased.CAUSENO.DP-22-62NOTICETOCREDITORS

JAIME CASTILLO, PersonalSept.Representative7,14and21, 2022 MNAXLP

The following is the ballot statement of an amendment to the Montana Constitution to be submitted to the voters of the state of Montana at the November 8, 2022 General Election. The text below is being published per the requirement of 13-27-311(2) MCA,

Laborer/Equipment Op erator I. **Recent Wage Increase** Facilities Services/ Montana State University –Bozeman. For complete job announcement and appli cation procedures, click Equalhttps://jobs.montana.edu/on:postings/30105.OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

PublicNotices see page 31

UniversityServices/MontanaLocksmithEmploymentHelpwantedFacilitiesState – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: Equaltana.edu/hr/postings/31185https://jobs.mon-OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

Manager. Facilities ServicesMontana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and appli cation procedures, click Equalhttps://jobs.montana.edu/on:postings/32290OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

Budget Analyst II **UP

2022 STATE OF MONTANA

30 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

Environmental Services Manager - Facilities Services/ Montana State UniversityBozeman. For complete job announcement and appli cation procedures, click Equalhttps://jobs.montana.edu/on:postings/30607.OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

2 bedroom, 1 bath home in Polson. Stove, dishwasher, washer, drier. $1000 a month

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed Estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will be forever barred as creditors of the decedent.

DATED SALARY** clickcompleteUniversityServices/MontanaFacilitiesState–Bozeman.Forjobannouncementandapplicationprocedures,on:https://jobs.montana.edu/hr/postings/30611.EqualOpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

Wanted: Valmar and Gandy air seeders, implement mount style. Call Paul at 763-286-2037 with model and condition.

Maintenance Painter Facili ties Services/Montana State University - Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: Equaledu/https://jobs.montana.postings/30461.OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

HVAC Maintenance Technician – Air Conditioning/Refrig eration **UPDATED** Facili ties Services/Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: Equaledu/hr/postings/28193.https://jobs.montana.OpportunityEmployer,Veterans/Disabled

Whole estates/collections or single pieces. Fair prices paid. 406-207-4641

[] NO on Constitutional Amendment C-48 Sept. 7 and 21, 2022 MNAXLP

Attorneybill@fgwilliamslaw.com676-4470forPersonalRepresentativeMONTANATWENTIETHJUDICIALDISTRICT

/s/ Lee M. Buddie LEE M. BUDDIE, Co-Personal Representative

John A. Mercer

by Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: CHRIS MAXWELL, Deceased.

COURT, LAKE COUNTY

CAUSE NO. DP-22-69

Telephone: (406) Attorneybill@fgwilliamslaw.com676-4470forPersonalRepresentative

cont’dLegalsfrompg. 30

/s/ D. Buddie DEBRA BUDDIE, Co-Personal RepresentativeSept.14,21 and 28, 2022 MNAXLP

AN ACT SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF MONTANA AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE II, SECTION 11, OF THE MONTANA CONSTITUTION TO EXPLICITLY INCLUDE ELECT- RONIC DATA AND COMMU- NICATIONS IN SEARCH AND SEIZURE PROTECTIONS.

/s/ George R. Maxwell George R. Maxwell

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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 VERNON JAN RICE, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC Attorneys at Law 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864 Telephone: (406)

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 Repre sentative, at 312 1st St. E, Polson, MT 59860.

Sept. 14, 21 and 28, 2022 MNAXLP

Cause No.: DP-22-67 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.

DATED this 6th day of September, 2022.

CAUSE NO. DP-22-68

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 LEE M. BUDDIE and DEBRA BUDDIE, the Co-Personal Representatives, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

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NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned have been appointed Personal Representatives of the abovenamed Estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will be forever barred as creditors of the decedent.

William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC Attorneys at Law 324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864

[] YES on Constitutional Amendment C-48

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September 21, 2022 - 31Valley Journal YOUR MESSAGE (4-week commitment) as low as $25 per week ADVERTISE HERE! Call 676-8989 for details Service Directory

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JEAN M. BUDDIE, Deceased.

DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com406-883-5367MONTANATWENTIETHJUDICIAL

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EVELYN MARIE RICE, Deceased.

CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 48 - AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION PROPOSED BY THE LEGISLATURE

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF C-48MONTANA:isaconstitutional amendment to amend Article II, section 11 of the Montana Constitution to specifically protect electronic data and communications from unreasonable search and seizures.

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.

Personal Representative Estate of CHRIS MAXWELL, Deceased.

/s/ Vernon Jan Rice VERNON JAN RICE, Personal RepresentativeSept.14, 21 and 28, 2022 MNAXLP

Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP Attorneys at Law 312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone:

DATED this 24th day of August, 2022.

32 - September 21, 2022 Valley Journal

09-21-22 Issue

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