10-04-23 issue

Garlic Festival returns, plans to grow future events in works

ST. IGNATIUS —

The Garlic Festival made an official return to St. Ignatius last Friday with plenty to celebrate. Cloudy skies that threatened rain didn’t stop participants from coming out to enjoy festival bounty.

Event goers ate soup and greens while listening to live music and shopping with local vendors. Murmurs of “this is great” and “it’s good to see everyone,” filled the air.

The festival featured plenty of produce for sale. Foothill Farm held a big bounty with six trays of different kinds of garlic.

Julie Pavlock, of Foothill Farm, said: “We have one variety of soft neck garlic and three hard necks, but most of the garlic we grow for seeds so other people can start their own garlic grow. Right about now would be the perfect time to plant your own garlic since it needs the cold to grow properly.”

Small Talk Farm had a large amount of garlic on display as well as other produce. Garlic braids with purple and yellow flowers woven in attracted attention at this stand.

“We do certified organic produce with some fruits, veggies, and some flower herbs, but mainly strapping roots,” said Britta Janssen, of Small Talk Farm. “We

are happy to be in this community and want to thank everyone for their support and being such a great community, she added.”

Flowers also filled tables at the event, adding a splash of color to the fall festival. An old apple press was also on display, which stirred some curiosity. One bystander said,

see page 2

Story and photos by Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

Garlic festival

from page 1

“I am pretty sure it’s over 100 years old.”

Ryan Pillsbury, one of the event coordinators, explained the relaunch of the festival. “Last year was pretty informal but we did have lots of volunteers. I really think it has gotten

a lot better this year since everyone really came together.” He added that he foresees the event continuing to grow.

“I really appreciate everyone who came out and helped us celebrate this year’s garlic festival, and if we get any busier, we are going to have to make this even bigger.”

Food pantries fundraise, seek holiday help

Polson Loaves & Fish

News from Polson Loaves & Fish

POLSON — The Polson Loaves & Fish Pantry, 904 First Street E, is staffed entirely of volunteers. They serve about 300 families per month. Theirr school weekend backpack program reaches 71 children each week. They are open for food distribution Tuesdays from 2-6 p.m. and Fridays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The Pantry is open for donations Mondays and Thursdays from 8-11 a.m.

We are funded by donations from individuals, businesses, area churches, banks, Flathead Salish Kootenai Tribe, hospitals and grants. Food is purchased from Montana Foodbank Network and local grocery stores. Food is often donated by grocery stores, family gardens, food drives and individuals.

Their current fundraising drive is being matched by

Correction

Town Pump up to $15,000. This drive is happening now and will continue through the end of November. If you would like to make a donation, please send it to: Polson Loaves & Fish - 904 First Street E - Polson, MT 59860.

Ronan Bread Basket

News from the Bread Basket

RONAN — Everyone in the community is dealing with the higher cost of gas, groceries, rent, services, etc. and community members who struggle with food insecurity are often hit the hardest by these increased costs. This struggle occurs for a variety of reasons including loss of employment, illness, income below the poverty level, etc. Many of our elders are forced to make a choice between food and essential medications while living on a fixed income. Families caught in unexpected circumstances find it difficult

The pastor of Life for the Nations Church was incorrectly identified in a story that published in the Sept. 27 Valley Journal. Pastors of the church are Chad and Sarah Hoffman of Ronan. Patrick Matt, Jr., is the Worship Leader. The Valley Journal regrets the error.

to feed their children. The number of families served by the Bread Basket has been increasing monthly over the course of 2023. The need is always magnified at the holidays.

The Bread Basket board of directors is forever grateful to individual and business donors who over the years have sponsored food drives, generously shared the bounty of gardens, farms and businesses and/or supported the food bank financially.

Currently the need is greater than ever, so we are reaching out to individuals and organizations in our area who might consider a monetary donation. Commitment to a monthly donation, no matter the size, would be a gift that is multiplied many times over. Please consider giving to the Ronan Bread Basket and spread the word about this need to your family and friends. Thank you so much for giving this worthwhile endeavor your attention.

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$1.1M+ secured to curb drug trafficking in Montana

Funding to support law enforcement, public education, drug abuse prevention

News from the office of Senator Tester

U.S. SENATE — As a part of his continued efforts to combat drug trafficking in Montana, U.S. Senator Jon Tester today secured $1,161,355 in funding for law enforcement, public education, and supporting at-risk youth.

As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Tester secured these funds

through the 2023 government funding bill. He was the only member of the Montana delegation to support the legislation.

“Drug trafficking is a scourge on our state – and if we’re going to get a grip on the crisis, we have to make sure folks on the ground have the tools they need to fight it,” said Tester. “I’m proud to have secured these funds to support our hard-working drug taskforces, educate the public, and curb illicit drug trafficking. Together we’ll ensure law enforcement has what they need to crack down on the illegal drugs that have been ravaging Montana communities for far

too long.”

The grants are administered by the Montana Bureau of Crime Control (MBCC) and will support Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) drug taskforces across the state as they work to investigate, arrest, and prosecute trafficking of illegal drugs. These funds support the six multi-jurisdictional Drug Task Forces across Montana.

Senator Tester also co-signed a letter to President Biden urging him to restore the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) to a Cabinet-level position – a designation it had until 2009.

DPHHS seeks Community First Choice Advisory Council Members

News from DPHHS

MONTANA — The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is seeking Montanans to serve on its Community First Choice (CFC) Advisory Council. The 15-member council’s mission is to advise DPHHS on the development and implementation of the CFC State Plan, quality assurance strategies, and strategies to maximize member self-direction, choice, and satisfaction with program services. Federal regulations stipulate the council be comprised of a majority of individuals with disabilities, older adults, and their repre -

sentatives. The council typically meets virtually on a quarterly basis and consists of subcommittees that meet in between regular meetings.

The CFC program provides in-home assistance for individuals with disabilities and older adults and stresses the importance of consumer-control, self-determination, and independent living through allowing individuals to direct their own care as much as possible.

CFC services are critically important for many individuals with disabilities and older adults to be able to live in their own homes and participate in their communities.

If you are an indi -

vidual who receives CFC services or are a family member of an individual who receives CFC services and are interested in joining or

learning more about the council, please contact Gloria Garceau-Glaser at 406-941-0250 or Christensen at 406270-4211.

Paving on Ronan-North highway project resumes mid-October

News from the Montana Department of Transportation

RONAN — Next week, Riverside Contracting Inc. crews will continue to install fencing and signage throughout the project area, as well as beginning work on approaches for the Sinclair gas station and properties on the southbound couplet, the short segment of roadway connecting First Avenue to US Highway 93 (US 93). It is anticipated that lane closures will not be required for these activities.

Work will occur on Round Butte Road at the intersection with Acre Lawn Court. Crews will be installing manholes, requiring the road to be reduced to one lane. Flaggers will be present. Expect short delays.

All work is dependent on weather and other unforeseen factors.

Crews will be onsite Monday, Oct. 2, through Friday, Oct. 6, from 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

When traveling through the construction zone, slow down, follow all traffic control, and watch for workers and equipment. The speed limit remains at 35 mph. Please remember to follow posted speed limits when driving through the project site.

Paving operations on the Ronan-North project will resume in mid-October. The final layer of pavement will be installed at that time.

Interior Department launches Water Recycling Program

Investment in new large-scale water recycling will make Western communities more resilient to drought

News from the Dept. of the Interior

WASHINGTON — The Department of the Interior recently announced the launch of a new largescale water recycling program and made $180 million in initial funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law available for projects aimed at creating new

water supplies that are less vulnerable to drought and climate change. To date, the Bureau of Reclamation has invested $310 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for projects that advance water recycling and reuse. The new program will incentivize projects at a larger scale, with no cap on project size, and will play an important role in helping communities develop local, drought-resistant water supplies by turning unusable water sources into clean, reliable ones.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda represents the largest investment in climate resilience in the nation’s

history and is providing much-needed resources to enhance Western communities’ resilience to drought and climate change. Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Reclamation is investing a total of $8.3 billion over five years for water infrastructure projects, including water purification and reuse, water storage and conveyance, desalination and dam safety.

“Water is essential to everything we do: feeding families, growing crops, powering agricultural businesses, sustaining wildlife and safeguarding Tribal subsistence practices,” said Secretary Deb Haaland. “As the

climate crisis drives severe drought conditions and historically low water allocations, it will take all of us working together to safeguard our communities. Through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, we have historic new investments that are helping us to build a water supply that will sustain future generations.”

“Through investments from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, the Bureau of Reclamation is supporting work on multiple water recycling projects throughout the West. With this new program, we will be able to fund larger projects to grow

local water supplies and serve more individuals,” said Reclamation Commissioner Camille Calimlim Touton. “As we work to address the drought crisis, its critical we are advancing innovative, forward-looking solutions that help communities develop local, drought resistant water supplies.”

The funding opportunity—part of Reclamation’s WaterSMART program--is aimed at water management agencies considering or planning larger water reuse projects as part of strategies to address projected water supply shortages. The initial investment of $180 million announced

today is part of a total $450 million for this new program.

In order to allow more flexibility in application, this opportunity has multiple application deadlines in 2023 and 2024. Projects that secure and stretch reliable water supplies for drought-stricken states and communities, provide water quality improvements, reduce impacts on projects owned by federal or state agencies, or provide benefits to disadvantaged, underserved and Tribal communities will be prioritized.  More information is available on the Grants. gov website by searching “R23AS00433.”

Local organizations provide additional support to families through pregnancy, postpartum

News from Eristina Moore, Providence St. Joseph Medical Center

POLSON — Providence St. Joseph Medical Center and St. Luke’s Community Hospital recently partnered with Helping Hands to educate new mothers and families on postpartum mood disorders by providing educational materials and a $25 incentive when mothers attend their postpartum check.

Helping Hands is a local non-profit organization that serves the community’s most vulnerable in their time of emergent need and the incentives are funded through their Zero to Five Flathead Reservation & Lake County grant project. “We started on Valen-

tine’s Day because we wanted to show love to our community’s growing families,” said Jennifer Rolfsness, Helping Hands Executive Director. Pregnancy and postpartum are a time full of changes for a growing family. One in five women will experience a mood disorder up to one year after delivering a baby, and partners are also at risk. Through the Helping Hands incentive, families are given a card at the newborn check that educates them about postpartum mood disorders. When they return the card to the OB provider at the postpartum check, they receive a $25 gift card. This incentivizes patients to learn about postpartum mood disorders and opens

the door for conversations with OB providers. “Families will bring their baby to well-child checks but forget that it is also important to care for themselves and follow up 6-8 weeks after delivery. Educating families empowers them to know what symptoms to watch for and discuss with their doctors,” said Lisa Grainey, Providence RN Care Manager and Helping Hands Project Manager. “So far, the new moms and families that have received education on postpartum mood disorders and the incentive have been receptive and thankful,” adds Tommie Linsebigler, St. Luke’s Case Manager.

Area hospitals are working

with The Meadowlark Initiative®, (a program supported through a partnership between the Montana Healthcare Foundation and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services), to screen all patients for mood disorders and provide timely treatment when needed. By screening all patients for mood disorders, health care providers can better understand if common pregnancy symptoms like decreased energy and appetite changes indicate something more serious. Other symptoms of mood disorders – like constant worry, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, or thoughts of wanting to hurt yourself or

your baby – can be difficult for women to experience and ask for help with.

Our community is working to make it the standard of care to look for, discuss, and provide tools to families to ease their way on the adventure of parenthood. Additionally, by screening for mood disorders throughout pregnancy and postpartum, we can evaluate if treatment options are helping or if we need to try a different approach. Treatment for mood disorders can include connecting with others, exercise, sleep, diet, yoga, meditation, or counseling. Both hospitals have additional staff to assist with connecting to community resources and support.

MV hunter education class announced

News from CSKT Natural Resources, Montana FWP

MISSION VALLEY — Sign in opens at 6 p.m. for the Polson, Ronan, Pablo Spring Hunter Education course starting Monday, Oct. 2, in Lobby of the PQLAW building on the Salish Kootenai College campus in Pablo. All classes will begin at 6:30 p.m. and end at 9 p.m. Sign in opens at 6 p.m.

Interested students are required to register online now at fwp.mt.gov. A parent or guardian must accompany students under 18 to the sign-in. Please bring signed forms from online to registration.

Students are required to pick up manuals with instructions at the PQLAW building on the Salish Kootenai College campus in Pablo. It will be a one-night chance only on Monday, Oct. 2, from 6 to 8 p.m. Important notice: you do not have to attend the whole time. This is your opportunity to pick up the class materials and drop off your signed paperwork. A parent or guardian must accompany students under 18 to sign-in. Student Course Manuals must be read and all the questions answered at the end of each chapter before the first class night. No one will be allowed to take the class without this requirement completed.

Individuals 10 years of age or older at the start of the class may be certified

upon successfully completing the course. Anyone born after Jan. 1, 1985, must complete a hunter education course before buying a hunting license in Montana. The course is free of charge. Volunteer instructors will begin instruction for the hunters education course. Classes will be on Tuesday, Oct. 10, Wednesday, Oct. 11, and Thursday, Oct. 12. A mandatory field course is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 15, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. The mandatory written test would be on Monday, Oct. 16 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. You must attend all classes and the field day and be on time to be certified. All hunter education classes are free of charge and open to hunters and non-hunters alike. Some students take the courses for the firearm safety and outdoor survival information, even if they don’t plan to hunt. Adults: please feel free to attend as many classes as you can with the children. I encourage you to take the test and take part in the field day with your student. If needed, you can become certified as well. We provide all the firearms and ammunition, you are not allowed to bring either to the classes or the field day. For registration and updates, check the online class schedule at http://fwp.mt.gov/education/hunter/ hunterEd.html. For more information on the Polson, Ronan, Pablo education course call lead instructor Tom Fieber 406-250-3386 or Stephanie Gillin at 406-883-2888.

MV Choral Society prepares for Christmas Concert

News from Mission Valley Choral Society

POLSON —The Mission Valley Choral Society is preparing for their Christmas Concerts and will accept members until Oct. 12. Practices are from 7-9 p.m., Thursdays, at the Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall. Christmas 2023 concerts are scheduled for Dec. 16 at the St. Ignatius

Mission and on Dec.17 at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Polson. The Lake County community choir has existed since the 1960s. The choir brings a diverse group of people together, all ages with varied backgrounds, united to bring joy through mu-sic. For information call 406-2613304 or 406-370-2076; or check out the MVCS web site: missionvalleychoralsociety.org or Facebook page.

Youth e-cigarette use addressed at Harvest Fest

ELMO — On Wednesday, Sept. 27, the Tribal Health & Fitness Center in Elmo hosted a Harvest Fest to highlight healthy lifestyle choices and programs.

Family games and prizes, information about tobacco prevention, food preservation, cancer screenings and more were offered.

Tobacco Education Specialists Mark Brookman and Juanita Swaney, from the Lake County Health Department and CSKT Tribal Health, respectively, were present to provide information about youth e-cigarette usage. The event is part of a series of six gatherings aimed at informing parents and students about the risks associated with e-cigarette use.

“Nationwide statistics indicate that more than 27% of middle and high school students admit to using e-cigarettes,” Swaney said. “With approximately 60% acknowledging experimentation with vaping at least once.”

Community health events like the Harvest Fest provide a platform for open discussions about the dangers associated with e-cigarettes and seek to keep parents and children well-informed on the subject.

Award named after local retired rancher

News from the Society for Range Management

WICHITA, KANSAS — The Society for Range Management recently established the Chuck Jarecki Rancher Land Stewardship Award thanks to a generous donation by its namesake, retired Polson rancher Chuck Jarecki. The award was created to recognize ranch operators who demonstrate outstanding rangeland stewardship and contribute to the ranching profession through local, state, and national service.

The Chuck Jarecki Rancher Land Stewardship Award will be a cash award whose recipient is an active ranch owner or operator with a lengthy record of successful ranch management. Evaluation of award candidates will be generally based on evidence of rangeland stewardship practices, including effective grazing, soil, vegetation, noxious weed, and fish/ wildlife habitat management, for example. Special consideration will be given to those who participate in community activities, especially those in service and/ or leadership roles to benefit natural resources. Membership in SRM is not a requirement for award eligibility.

Nominations for the award are now open and the first recipient will be honored at the 2024 SRM Annual Meeting in Sparks, Nevada, Jan. 28-31.

For a nomination form go to: https:// rangelands.org/resources/awards/ how-to-submit-a-nomination

The application deadline is Nov. 1, 20 23.

Chuck Jarecki

Story and photos by Marshal Gillen for the Valley Journal

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valley views If trees could talk

Thisis the first of a two-part column. Because trees not only require but deserve two parts of our attention.

Magestic. Beautiful. Larger than life. Strong. All-knowing. All-seeing. Reaching skyward. Extending downward.

husband and I raised our children there. Our house was built in 1920 - as were many of the houses – because the entire town, or nearly so, was destroyed by the great fire of 1918.

case of 758 Lilac Street (not the real address.) Recently, someone posted on social media that they used to live at this address and it was one of a handful of homes that survived the Big Fire.

Slices of Life

Jill Pertler Syndicated columnist

Life-providing. Life sustaining. Simple. Complex. Miraculous. Useful. Worthy. Alive.

Silent.

Trees.

Trees don’t fight traffic or scramble in the morning hoping not to to be late to work. They don’t ever cross the street or engage in friendly gossip. They don’t cross the street because they don’t move (at least not on their own). They don’t gossip because they don’t talk.

If only trees could talk. Think of the stories they could tell.

I lived in a small town for 20-plus years. My

letters

could have planted the trees that serve as the backbone of her house. If only they could talk. The tales they might tell.

to live, a purpose yet to fulfill.

able to see it as such.

It was a series of unfortunate events that started with a spark from a train that landed on grass and foliage near the tracks. It had been an extremely dry summer, making the land ripe for ignition. High winds and low humidity contributed to the perfect storm.

People fled. Many lost their lives. Even more lost their homes.

But not every home was lost. For decades I thought the entire town burned down in 1918, but I recently learned a small few survived. Homeowners sprayed water on roofs in hopes of avoiding personal catastrophe.

And sometimes it worked - as it did in the

Community costs should be carefully considered Editor,

I read with interest Carlene Vey’s letter about the proposed

Imagine my surprise. This is my daughter’s current address.

She confirmed the information. Her house was built in 1910 - pre-fire.

That got me to thinking. If walls could talk. If trees could talk. Think of the plethora of information they could pass on. What would they say?

The trees that built my daughter’s house - that continue to support it even 100 years after the great fire, started their lifetimes long, long before 1918. They started as seedlings likely in the the mid-1800s, if not before.

In human terms they’ve witnessed roughly seven generations (give or take) of our own (so very) important lives. That means my daughter’s great, great, great, great grandparents

subdivision on the 130 acres owned by DNB Development out of California. I get the impression around here that there is not much oversight by the county planning department or our county commissioners who

During the first part of their life, they sat around in the forest - observing bunnies and serving as refuge for squirrels. They saw owls pursue prey and sighed in reverence when a white-tailed dear nested and nestled under the cover of their branches. They looked upward, pursuing the sun, priding themselves on being at the top of the sun-chain: the first to see the sunrise and the last to view the sunset.

And then, one fateful day, a human came with the axe and the peaceful existence they’d known forever was no more. They may have thought life was over.

Because it was over, at least as they knew it at the time.

But the universe had other plans for these trees. They had a life yet

just see dollar signs and tax revenue. From 200-400 units east of the highway and a little south of downtown Ronan, there will be extreme impacts to roads, schools, sewer and water. These will cost existing Ronan resi-

The human with the axe cut the strong, healthy trunks into boards, cut the boards to size and fashioned them into the frame of a house. When realizing this, the tree understood that life wasn’t over. It was just beginning.

It was a new start with a new perspective, providing opportunities to see the world in ways the tree never have imagined - before.

And in that, before became but a memory and the tree (now wooden boards) immersed itself in its new existence. A brand new life.

But what would that life be? What would it mean? What would it lead to?

Tree was about to find out.

As can we - all of us - if we are open to new and unknown things. An event that appears to be life-ending could be a beginning, if we are only

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

LETTER POLICY

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

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

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

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

dents.

In the grab for tax revenue people fail to realize that cost of community services per acre generally outweigh the cost of

see page 11

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

It’s time for state management of grizzly bears

The recent spate of headlines about grizzly bear attacks and human-bear conflicts highlights the need for the federal government to return management of grizzlies to the State of Montana.

Grizzly bears are still listed under the federal Engendered Species Act despite their populations having been recovered, robust, and growing in both the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem for years now.

When grizzlies were listed on the Endangered Species Act, there was good reason for it, but the reality on the ground is far different now. Thousands of bears currently roam each of the GYE and NCDE. Far from being endangered, populations are not

from page 10

community services for an acre of open space or agricultural land. Do we need housing? For sure we do, but do we need one huge subdivision, built by someone from California who has no clue or care about the needs of Lake County.

Vicky MacLean Ronan

People have power to save democracy

Editor,

There is an empowering answer to what our

only sustainable, but growing. Grizzlies are expanding their range, migrating into other ecosystems, mountain ranges, and even the plains.

Wildlife management practices have also drastically improved and evolved since the bears were added to the Endangered Species List.

Legislative Notes

Montana is recognized as one of the best wildlife managers in the world. The state effectively manages numerous game species, non-game species,

nation is going through right now. It involves each of us.

Our present political divide has caused our democracy to be in peril. We each have a role in healing this divide. Our democracy offers each of us the opportunity to contribute in some ap-

and, most notably, other large predator species. Black bears and mountain lions have fared well under state management for decades. Extreme environmentalists often point to wolves when they claim the state can’t be trusted with managing grizzlies, but the facts don’t align with their assertions. Despite environmentalists taking issue with wolf management practices, wolf populations continue to be robust and sustainable in Montana.

The state is a reliable and

propriate manner. One thing I have chosen is to write letters to the editor. Often they are based upon my spiritual learning. This began early for me. The following is what my mother would repeat with my brother and me every night as she tucked us in.

successful steward of Montana’s wildlife, including large predators. There is no valid, data-based reason for grizzly bears’ continued exclusion from state management. In fact, as populations continue to grow and conflicts with humans and livestock become more common, the longer the feds retain control over the bears, the more frustrated the public will become.

With all this in mind, the state Legislature took a big step to lay the groundwork for state grizzly bear management. Earlier this year, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 295, which revises Montana law to accommodate grizzlies being delisted from the Endangered Species Act. SB 295 establishes reasonable parameters for lethal

“God is love. That love surrounds me. In that love I safely dwell. ‘Tis above, beneath, within me. God Is love and all is well.”

It is one thing to repeat these words, it is quite

management of bears when necessary, requires safeguards to keep populations at sustainable levels, and directs state wildlife managers to update their policies to ensure that once grizzlies come off the Endangered Species List, they’ll never need to go back on it.

Grizzly bear recovery in Montana is a conservation success story. Grizzly populations are healthy, sustainable, and growing. It’s past time for the federal government to take the win, delist the bears, and return management to the State of Montana.

Sen. Jason Ellsworth, R-Hamilton, is the President of the Montana Senate. Sen. Bruce “Butch” Gillespie, R-Ethridge, is the sponsor of SB 295

another to live them. Each of us has some way of contributing. And in our democracy we each are free to do so. “We the People” have power. Our media needs to speak about this and encourage

participation. Openly using our “positive people power” is essential at this critical time. This is my belief.

Bob McClellan Missoula

Sen. Butch Gillespie, R-Ethridge

Sen. Jason Ellsworth, R-Hamilton

Anglers enjoy week two of Fall Mack Days event

News from CSKT Natural Resource Department

PABLO — 2023 Fall

Mack Days anglers enjoyed the second good fishing weekend of the event on Flathead Lake. Swirling winds on Thursday were mixing it up on the water keeping some anglers off the lake but the weekend fishing weather settled down and was good.

Mack Days Fishing

Events are sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and are used as one of their management tools to reduce the non-native lake trout in Flathead Lake. Bull trout and westslope cutthroat were the dominate fish of the lake for thousands of years until the lake trout population exploded in sixties. The local Tribal and non-tribal residents depended on the native fish as a healthy food source. Bull trout spawn in the Flathead River system - some making their way up past the Canadian border. They may spend their lives in the rivers or many of them come down into Flathead Lake. They are important to the history of the lake.

“After we’ve lost a natural place, it’s gone for everyone - hikers, campers, boaters, bicyclists, animal watchers, fishers, hunters, and wildlife. For this reason, it is vital that we overcome our differences, find common

ground in our shared love for the natural world, and work together to defend the wild.”- Richard Nelson

There is up to $200,000 in cash and prizes that will be awarded to anglers at the conclusion of the event. Anglers are very important to the success of the events.

Each lake trout entry gives them a chance to win lottery drawings or maybe catch tagged lake trout. Bonus dollars are awarded depending on the total number of lake trout entered once your total gets to eleven entries. The drawings, bonuses, and tagged fish dollars help anglers pay for the cost of going out to fish and help in this conservation effort. The event began on Sept. 14 and will end on Nov. 12. Pick the number of days you want to fish - one, two, ten, etc. There is no entry fee. Enter up until

the last day.

“Ghost” the $10,000 elusive, tagged lake trout is lurking in the dark murky depths of the lake. Tagged lake trout have been released in all parts of the lake so Ghost could be anywhere moving around the lake. There are 3 - $5,000, 6 - $1,000 (including one sponsored by Bretz RV and Marine of Missoula), and over 9,000 fish with values from $100 to $500.

Eight-year-old Paisley Helvey of Thompson Falls, who had a total of five lake trout entries for that day, Kim Mack of Helena, Felix Gauci of Stevensville, Carey Hauser of Lakeside, and Mike Benson of Lonepine all turned in $100 tagged lake trout. There have been $1,000 tagged winners who only have one fish entered in the event so take a chance and try your luck.

Monday to Thursday

fishing totals came to 722. Friday, Sept. 22, the fish total was 678 with Dave Myers of Riverton, Wyoming, turning in a total of 96 for the high count. Saturday’s total was 618 with Myers again having the high count with 55 lake trout entries. Sunday’s high count was Felix Gauci of Stevensville with 75 and the total count being 551 for the day. Total for the second weekend was 1,847 and total weekend count was 3,357. Final count for all days is at 4,079.

Top 10 Anglers: 1stDave Myers with 367, 2nd - Felix Gauci with 360, 3rd - Mike Benson-Lonepine with 295, 4th - Bob Stewart of Kalispell with 284, 5th - Larry Ashwell-of Missoula with 201, 6th - Jack Kirkland of Lolo with 200, 7th - Scott Bombard of Missoula with 155, 8th - Larry Karper of

the depths of the lake to evade the larger voracious eating lake trout. This is a popular category for the anglers Friday to Sunday fishing only.

Florence with 153, 9th - Richard Kreis of Huson with 135, and 10th - Steve Mack of Helena with 131.

12 & under totals: Paisley Helvey of Thompson Falls is in 1st with 13 and Blaine Helvey of Thompson Fall is in 2nd with 12. Bear Yarrow, Holden Griffin, and Ace Whimper of Clinton each have one entry.

The Ladies are led by Laurie Kreis of Huson with 105, 2nd - Kim Mack of Helena with 58, and 3rd - Debby Sacchi of Thompson Falls has 46.

Paul Grove of Wyoming, Illinois, turned in a 141mm-(5 1/2”) small lake trout entry to take the lead in the smallest fish category. He reported the small laker was in 182’ of water. Laurie Kreis is in second with a 184mm-(7 ¼”) small laker. Small juvenile lake like

Coolers are hard to handle when they are heavy with fish. Jerry Benson had some bad luck Sunday unloading his at the marina dock after a long day on the water. Someone had taken one of his tie-down ropes so he couldn’t tie the boat so it would be stable and not move. He was lifting his cooler up to the dock and the boat swung out - he missed the dockand all of his fish went back into the lake. He was grabbing fish out of the water while leaning out from the dock and using his pole to reach some of them that were too far away to grab. Luckily, he was able to get all but three of them back into his cooler. He and a Mack Days staff person could see them at the bottom, but it was too deep to reach them. At the end of a long day that is not what you want to happen, but he felt lucky he was able to get most of them back in the cooler.

There is still no large lake trout entry in the event. The largest lake trout has to be over 36” and weigh in over 20 pounds, Friday to Sunday fishing only. Bretz RV and Marine sponsored the $500 large lake trout prize.

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Montana man sentenced for Jan. 6 offense

Defendants pushed bike rack against police outside U.S. Capitol

News from the Department of Justice

WASHINGTON —

A Montana man and a Pennsylvania man were sentenced in the District of Columbia on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023, on several felony and misdemeanor charges, including assaulting law enforcement, related to their actions during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. Their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

Craig Michael Bingert, 32, of Allentown,

Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 96 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution.

Isaac Steve Sturgeon, 34, of Dillon, Montana, was sentenced to 72 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution.

U.S. District Court Judge Royce C. Lamberth convicted the pair following a bench trial on May 24, 2023, of seven charges, including obstruction of an official proceeding; assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers; civil disorder, all felonies; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds; and engaging

in an act of physical violence in the grounds or any of the Capitol buildings.

According to evidence presented at trial and court documents, acting independently, the two made their way onto the restricted grounds of the Capitol and joined the mob on the West Front at the base of the inaugural stage. The duo climbed through the inaugural stage scaffolding, up the southwest stairs, and made their way to the front of the mob at the top of the stairs, where police had formed a line behind a row of bike racks being used as a barricade to defend the Capitol. At approximately 2:45 p.m., Bingert and Sturgeon stood side-by-side directly in front of the bike racks and police at the top of the southwest stairs. The pair and others grabbed the

metal bike rack in front of them and pushed it hard against the police, resulting in injury to at least one officer. Both men remained on the Upper West Terrace for at least two hours after this assault, watching the brutal attacks on the police occurring on the Lower West Terrace below them. They both remained on restricted grounds until police forcibly removed them.

In the 32 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,100 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 396 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit: tips.fbi.gov.

victims

News the office of Senator Jon Tester

U.S. SENATE — As a part of his continued work to fully fund and equip law enforcement and promote public safety in Montana, U.S. Senator Jon Tester today secured $10,550,338 in funding to strengthen law enforcement and provide courts, families, and victims of crime with the tools and resources they need. These grants will enhance law enforcement efforts targeting violent crime, aid in investigating and prosecuting sexual assault cases, provide support to families affected by crime, and develop programs to address violence against women.

As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Tester secured these funds through the 2023 government funding bill. He was the only member of the Montana delegation to support the legislation.

“Montana’s local law enforcement agencies, courts, and crime victim services work tirelessly every day to ensure our communities are safe and families affected by crime are supported –and it’s on us to make sure they have the tools and resources they need to continue protecting our communities,” said Tester. “In our continued fight to boost public safety in Montana, I’m proud to have secured this funding to strengthen law enforcement, crack down on violent crime, and stand with survivors of sexual assault.”

More than $10.5M secured to support MT law enforcement, enhance public safety, assist crime

Cherry Valley, Linderman construction projects set to break ground late October

News from Polson School District No. 30

POLSON — There is something magical about the start of a new school year. It is time for students to reinvent themselves, set new goals, and embark on a journey of learning. This year, our school community has even more reasons to be excited with the commencement of the new construction

projects, the arrival of new teachers and the unwavering support of our remarkable community.

One of the most significant sources of excitement is the start of our Cherry Valley and Linderman construction projects. These projects are scheduled to break ground in late October. New classrooms, upgraded facilities, and safe modernized spaces are in the works. These proj -

Code Girls United awarded grant

News from Code Girls United

KALISPELL — Code Girls

United has been chosen as winners of a $100,000 grant in the MIT Solve Gender Equity in STEM Challenge. This highly competitive grant challenge garnered over 200 applicants with only seven being selected as winners. Between all winners, a total of one million dollars in prizes was granted.

The initiative was designed to support organizations that are working to address barriers and unlock the untapped potential of girls and women in STEM across the country. MIT Solve partnered with Tiger Global Impact Ventures to fund and support this opportunity, which also grants winners with a six-month partnership for organizational development and support.

This prestigious award lends affirmation and accreditation to the organization in the technological and scientific communities. MIT Solve challenges apply a rigorous review and investigative process

ects represent a significant investment in the future of our students, and we can’t wait to see the finished result.

A fresh school year also brings the introduction of 18 new teachers and five new staff members. These dedicated educators bring with them a wealth of knowledge, enthusiasm, and a commitment to nurturing the next generation. Their arrival is an opportunity for students

to be inspired, to learn from diverse perspectives and to cultivate a love for lifelong learning.

What truly sets our schools apart is the incredible support we receive from our community. Our parents, local businesses, and community leaders rally behind our school, recognizing that the success of our students is the success of our entire community. Their unwavering sup -

port ensures that our students have access to a safe learning environment, best resources and opportunities for growth.

As we embark on this new school year, the excitement in the air is palpable. The anticipation of new construction, the enthusiasm of new staff members and the tremendous support of our community converge to create an atmosphere of possibility and potential.

into the methods and practices of applying organizations choosing only the most innovative solutions.

Founder and Executive Director, Marianne Smith says, “This partnership will allow us to scale our programs to new locations, bolster our Tribal curriculum, connect with a community of innovative problem solvers and increase our capacity to support our existing programs. If you teach girls, the language of code, then they will speak, write and read code. They will be heard. That is what Code Girls United is striving to do”.

Founded in 2016, Code Girls United is a nonprofit organization providing free after-schoolprogramming for fourth to eighthgrade girls and tribal high school girls in Montana.

Code Girls United’s mission is to: To expand the future career opportunities of 4th – 8th grade girls throughhands-on experiences in coding, technology, and business.

To learn more, we welcome you to visit our website at: www.codegirlsunited.org.

school reminders for motorists

News from Montana Department of Transportation

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

lights indicate children are preparing to load or unload, and motorists should be prepared to stop. Red flashing lights indicate children are loading or unloading, and motorists must stop at least 30 feet from the school bus and wait until red lights are no longer flashing. Together, we can help keep our students safe on their journey.

FWP issues statement on Montana Stream Access Law

News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

HELENA – Montana

Fish, Wildlife & Parks has recently received questions on Montana’s Stream Access Law and

how it is applied across the state. For landowners and recreationists alike, it’s important to know about the law and understand how it applies to private land and water-based recreation.

“The public has a right to enjoy water-based recreation on rivers and streams in Montana below the high-water mark,” said FWP Director Dustin Temple. “The public also has the right to access rivers and streams from public road right of ways and easements, including bridges. This is settled law and we will continue do our part to ensure these rights are maintained on behalf of the recreating public.”

To learn more about Montana’s Stream Access Law visit: https:// fwp.mt.gov/fish/ stream-access.

Safety is always in session: back-to-

Notice to Public of Proposed Rate Increase for Public Comment

Mission Valley Power (MVP) has maintained low and stable rates for many years. Due to steep increases in the cost of materials, fuel, and general operating expenses that MVP continues to experience, along with our obligation to invest in our aging infrastructure, it is necessary to implement a rate adjustment to both Basic Monthly Charges and Energy Usage Rates over the next 3 years. The increases will be an average of 18% in 2024, 7% in 2025, and 5% in 2026 across all Rate Classes. These adjustments will allow us to ensure continued reliability throughout our service area. MVP is a non-profit entity so all revenues collected are invested back into the utility.

Public input is welcome on the proposed increase. Mission Valley Power believes that our customers have confidence in our fair and diligent work practices. MVP will continue to provide reliable electrical power service consistent with sound business principles to all our customers.

Public meeting for comment

will

be held at MVP’s Conference

Room in Pablo on: Tuesday Oct. 24 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

See complete proposal at right.

Oral comments may be made at the above time and location and should be limited to three (3) minutes. Written comments may be sent to Consumer Council Chair, Brian Johnson-BigSam, PO Box 97 Pablo MT 59855. Comments must be received no later than November 2, 2023. The proposed effective date of the rate increase is January 1, 2024.

Bulldogs celebrate homecoming

By Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — The Bulldogs battled it out against the Vikings on a cool Friday night on their home turf. The homecoming game didn’t go in the dogs’ favor, 6-30.

The Bulldogs scored their only touchdown in the second quarter with a 65-yard touchdown. The touchdown pass was thrown by Titan Mansell and caught by Iyezk Umphrey. Umphrey then outran the Vikings and scored. After the touchdown, cheers from the fans echoed through the stands.

After the second quarter, Cecelia Koskela made sure the homecoming crowns made it to the field. Students could be heard asking who the winners were.

Koskela replied, “It’s a surprise. You will have to wait and see.”

With the crowns in place, homecoming candidates made their way to the field, lining up and waiting to find out who had been chosen. The announcer made some jokes saying, “Is everyone ready or should I just keep it a secret,” which caused some children to yell out in protest.

Izzy Evans and Rhain Gonzalez were finally crowned among smiles and cheers. Evans said she was excited and glad to be the queen. She said, “I love my class and I appreciate all of them and I want to thank everyone who voted for me.”

Gonzalez said, “I am not super surprised about being chosen as king, but I do want thank everyone.”

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO Rhain Gonzalez and Izzy Evans are Mission’s 2023 homecoming king and queen.

BEAU BIGGS PHOTOS

Interior Dept. launches effort to preserve Federal Indian Boarding School oral history

News from the Dept. of the Interior

WASHINGTON — The Department of the Interior recently announced the launch of an oral history project that will document and make accessible the experiences of the generations of Indigenous children who attended the federal boarding school system. This effort – the first of its kind to be undertaken by the federal government – is part of the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative launched by Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and will ensure stories and experiences that survivors share can be heard by, and learned from, current and future generations.

The Department and Smithsonian National Museum of American History are in ongoing discussions about how to support this work.

The National Native Ameri -

can Boarding School Healing Coalition (NABS), which has a proven track record of gathering stories through a survivor-centered protocol, will receive a total of $3.7 million in grant funding. Funding for the grant through the Bureau of Indian Affairs was made possible in part through funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities, which in April 2023 committed $4 million to support the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative. NABS has been engaged with the Department since the launch of its initiative to share records and information.

“Creating a permanent oral history collection about the federal Indian boarding school system is part of the Department’s mission to honor its political, trust and legal responsibilities, and commitments to Tribes,” said Secretary Deb Haaland. “The U.S. government has never before collected the

experiences of boarding school survivors, which Tribes have long advocated for to memorialize the experiences of their citizens who attended federal boarding schools. This is a significant step in our efforts to help communities heal and to tell the full story of America.”

“This historic project is a lifeline to preserving the voices and memories of Indian boarding school survivors,” said NABS Chief Executive Officer Deborah Parker (Tulalip). “Many of our ancestors did not have the chance to share their experiences, so NABS is grateful to Secretary Haaland and the Department of the Interior for this support. This will allow us to continue our work in seeking truth and justice, ensuring survivor’s stories are never forgotten, and bringing healing to future generations.”

In May 2022, Secretary Haaland and Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Bryan

Newland released Volume 1 of the investigative report called for as part of the initiative. The report represented a significant step by the federal government to comprehensively address the facts and consequences of historical federal Indian boarding school policies, which stemmed from the twin goals of cultural assimilation and territorial dispossession of Indigenous peoples through the forced removal and relocation of their children. Volume 2 is expected to be published by the end of 2023.

As part of the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative and in response to recommendations from the report, Secretary Haaland launched “The Road to Healing.” This year-long commitment to travel across the country is giving Indigenous survivors the opportunity to share their stories and be connected with trauma-informed support. The oral history project

announced today will build on this effort to create space for survivors.

This project will focus on gathering first-person survivor narratives and establishing an oral history collection. Survivors will have the opportunity to make their interviews available to federal partners, Tribal governments, policymakers and researchers, and the public.

The Department will continue its engagement with the Department of Health and Human Services, including the Indian Health Service and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, to coordinate trauma-informed survivor-centered support during these engagements.

NABS is dedicated to advocating for Native peoples impacted by U.S. Indian boarding schools. To learn more about the oral history project, please visit the NABS oral history project webpage

Operations Manual Update

Effective October 28, 2023

Mission Valley Power (MVP) is announcing the implementation of the updated Operations Manual and Service Fees. Effective October 28, 2023 all proposed changes will be permanently set in place. The changes were published in all local newspapers notifying our consumers of the proposed changes and giving the opportunity for comment. One customer comment was received during the 30-day comment period.

Updated Service Fee Schedule:

a. Customer requests service call on customer’s side of meter.

Hours 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Actual Cost

Hours after 4:30 p.m. or weekends/holidays Actual Cost

b. Meter test $50.00

(The fee will be refunded if analysis indicates a problem with MVP equipment)

c. Unauthorized Re-supply Fine $500.00

d. Connect or Transfer Fee $10.00

e. Late Fee (prepay exempt) 5% of bill, minimum of $10.00

for more information:

f. Penalty Fee (prepay exempt) $40.00

g. Reconnect Fee – General

After customer requests Disconnect (see page 22 of Ops

Manual) Actual Costs & Fees

h. Service Fee – Non-payment:

Hours 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (prepay exempt) $60.00

Hours after 4:30 p.m. or weekends/holidays $250.00

i. Reconnect Fee – Irrigation-Non-payment: $200.00

j. Dishonored Payments $35.00

k. Engineering Application Fee (non-refundable) $200.00

l. Meter Tampering Fee

First Offense $750.00

Second Offense $1000.00

Third Offense $1000.00 & 1 Year Denial of Service

In addition to the updated Service Fee schedule, MVP has also eliminated the new customer aid to construction credit of $500.00. This means that new customers will pay 100% of the cost of new construction. An additional change is that all MVP aid to construction or work order estimates will be valid for two weeks. This change will require MVP to update all estimates to recover present costs.

Please feel free to stop by our Pablo office or visit our website at missionvalleypower.org for a copy of the updated Operations Manual and Service Fees.

obituaries

Ione Fitzpatrick

POLSON — Ione Lois Fitzpatrick passed away on Sept. 20, 2023, in Polson.

Ione was born on Aug. 10, 1934, in Sidney to Louis E. and Mabel L. Pollard. She was the second of three children. She attended Newlor School, five miles from Sidney, Montana, through the 7th grade. The family moved to Columbia Falls in 1947.

Ione graduated from Hoads School of Beauty in 1952. She worked at Lavelles Beauty Shop for three years before moving to Ronan and opening her own beauty shop in 1956.

Ione met and married Thomas Gale Fitzpatrick of Hot Springs, Montana in 1959. To this union four sons were born and later Mary Ann Matt came into their lives through foster care and raised by Tom and Ione as their daughter with the Fitzpatrick boys.

Ione is survived by son, Thomas Daniel (Arlene) Fitzpatrick of Curlew, Washington and grandsons, Bo Daniel (Ashley) and Jason; son, Brett Joseph (Elisha) Fitzpatrick of Polson and grandson, Payton (Katelynn), and great-grandsons, Nolan and Ryan, grandson, Grey (Shelbi) Fitzpatrick, and great-grandson, Case; son,

Jack Edward (Barbara)

Fitzpatrick of Polson, grandson, Loren (Raychel) and great-grandchildren, Conan, Alethea, Samuel, and Elijah, and granddaughters, Dillon and Katie (Jake) Fitzpatrick; son, Zane Gale (Sandi) Fitzpatrick of Polson, and grandsons, Tim (Courtney), Bridger and Caden; and daughter, Mary Ann Matt (family) of Ronan.

Ione always had a way to bring family together. With everyone’s busy lives, she made sure to bring everyone back together and to appreciate what’s most important … family. She always made sure everyone was doing good and were well taken care of. Ione mastered the craft of homemade bread, cinnamon rolls, and dinner rolls. She baked amazing pies. She also loved to play cards, Yahtzee, and other games. She was hard to beat at any kind of card game. During calving and lambing season, she always kept a pot of coffee and a card game going for all the guys between shifts of checking stock. She also loved to fish and once caught a 25-pound salmon in Washington with her son, Dan. She loved to see all the baby lambs, calves, and colts born every year and was always good for advice on gardening. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend to many. She will be forever loved and missed. She is preceded in death

by her parents; husband, Thomas Fitzpatrick; brother, Mandel Pollard; and nephew, Claude Smith.

Ione was baptized as Jehovah’s Witness on Oct. 14, 1995, and it brought her much joy. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www.shriderthompson. com. Arrangements are under the care of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.

Claude Smith

CHARLO — We are sad to announce the passing of Claude C. Smith, “Old Man.” He passed away on Sept. 9, 2023, at the age of 60, after a courageous battle with cancer and surrounded by his family. He was born on Nov. 4, 1962, in Ronan to Gerald and Lorelie (Pollard) Smith.

Claude loved his entire family with all his heart. His legacy will live on through his boys and his grandchildren. Claude’s best accomplishment in life was his sons, whom he enjoyed many adventures with. Claude loved to hunt and fish, camp, and sit around the campfire telling stories. We will miss him dearly.

He is preceded in death by his father, Gerald, and

his sister-in-law, Pam.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Cindy and their children, Claude “Daniel” and Joshua (Jeanna) and their four grandchildren, Brooklyn, Danaley, Boston, and Bentley; his siblings, Gerald, Greg (Kim), Debbie (Dana) Thingelstad, Steve (Leslie), Lana (Bill) Bartel, Don (Diane), as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Claude’s life will be held in the spring. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at: www.shriderthompson.com. Arrangements are under the care of Shrider – Thompson Funeral Home.

Paul Philips

ARLEE —Our beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and uncle passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Sept. 16, 2023. Paul was born on Dec. 13, 1947, in Tampa, Florida, to Betty and Tom Philips. Paul, his brother Tom, and sister Anne were raised on Air Force bases around the US and in England, arriving in Great Falls in 1962. Paul graduated from CM Russell High School in 1966, in the first graduating class. He then attended

Montana State University in Bozeman. While in college, Paul developed passions for both art and music, which he pursued for the remainder of his life. Paul played saxophone, harmonica and sang in many bands including The Smith Brothers, Uprising, The M Group, Zeppo Blues, The Moonlighters, RPM, Blue Moon, and many others, touring throughout the western states. Paul finally settled in Missoula, in the early 80s where he met the love of his life and soulmate Cheryl. Together they handbuilt their home outside of Arlee where they raised their children Rachel and Martin. Paul had several careers to support his passions. He became accomplished in classic car restoration, restoring cars for Hollywood celebrities and many others. In the 90s he followed his grandfather’s footsteps and became a rural mail carrier serving the beautiful Mission Valley outside of St. Ignatius. He became a familiar and welcome sight delivering mail on the dusty roads of St. Ignatius. Paul is survived by his wife of 39 years, Cheryl, their children Rachel of Missoula, and Martin of Huson; son, Miles of Seattle, Washington; son, Nate of Portland, Oregon; his brother, Tom and his sister, Anne, both of Arlee; five grandchildren; and numerous extended family and friends.

Paul made many, many friends throughout his life

and will be dearly missed by all who have known him.

Cancer support group meets twice monthly

News from Cheerful Heart, Inc.

POLSON — A cancer support group meets from noon-1 p.m. on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month in the St. Joseph Medical Center Chapel located inside the front entrance to the hospita. The support group is for anyone affected by cancer and is led by Pastor Matthew Connally of the Ronan / Polson Nazarene Church. The group welcomes those recently diagnosed, those undergoing treatment, cancer survivors, and/or family members. The group aims to provide a safe place for members to share, learn, support, and encourage members after a cancer diagnosis; and, to conquer the fear in themselves and others. Confidentiality is practiced. Gatherings are informal, folks may drop-in as schedules permit and can bring a brown bag lunch. Cheerful Heart, an organization of volunteers who provide non-medical services for cancer patients in Lake County since 2002, sponsors the support group. Cheerful Heart message line is 406-883-3070 or go to the Cheerful Heart web site at: www.cheerfulheart.org or email cheartinc@gmail.

Claude Smith

Paul Phillips

Ione Fitzpatrick

Ronan wood business awarded $997,912 grant

News from Tech Woods USA

RONAN — Tech Woods USA, LLC (TWU), a small business producing hardwood furniture blanks in Ronan announces it is the recipient of a grant from the U.S. Forest Service through the FY23 Community Wood Grants program to support the new TWU

Fall open debris burning begins

News from CSKT

FLATHEAD RESERVATION — Open debris burning for the fall burning season, started on Oct. 1. Fire danger is LOW on the Flathead Indian Reservation. Careless debris burning is a major cause of wildfire on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

Open burning is Oct. 1 to Nov. 30 on the Flathead Indian Reservation. To burn from Oct. 1 to Nov. 30 you do not need a burn permit. If a fire does get out of control call 911 immediately.

Remember you are responsible for any and all suppression and property costs if your fire escapes your control.

If you have any questions about debris burning call the Division of Fire at 406676-2550.

Follow us on Facebook - CSKT Division of Fire.

Mission Mountain Wood Innovation Project

. Tech Woods was awarded a $997,912 grant.

USFS awarded 19 Community Wood Grants to entities in 14 states.

TWU was the sole recipient in the State of Montana. Community Wood Grants, officially titled the Community Wood Energy and Wood Innovation Program, awards funding to shovel-ready projects to install a community wood energy system or build an innovative wood product facility. Healthy forests depend on a healthy forest products economy, and these projects directly support forest health and stimulate local economies by expanding renewable wood energy and innovative wood products manufacturing capacity.

MMWIP is an innovative harvest-local/buy-local project run by TWU that aims to build a US market for low-quality wood through the production of locally-produced, thermally-treated wood products using blue-stain wood and low-value timber harvested from forests of the Mission Mountains and

the Northern Rockies. By utilizing low-value timber, MMWIP will provide a new business model for restoration efforts needed to improve forest health and reduce wildfire risks. Through the installation of a new Moldrup-SSP18 plant for hydro-themal treatment of wood, MMWIP will produce innovative, affordable, and environmentally-friendly soft and hard wood products on-site at the TWU facility. Products will include blue wood siding, decking, and bridge timbers for use by CSKT, and contractors in and around Flathead Lake.

MMWIP will contribute to forest health by creating economic incentives for removing marginally-valued trees, and hence, reducing the risks of catastrophic stand-replacing wildfires. By recruiting, training, and employing Tribal members, descendants, and non-Native youth, MMWIP will contribute to creating jobs and improving the economy on the Flathead Reservation.

To learn more about TWU and MMWIP visit: https://techwoodsusa.com

seniors

Polson

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — Lunch is served at the Polson Senior Center from 11:45 a.m.12:30 p.m. weekdays. The menu is subject to change. A $5 donation for a meal helps keep our food costs low. We are located at 504 Third Ave. E in Polson. Call before 10 a.m. for home delivery. Some restrictions apply for deliveries. Call us for details at 406-883-4735.

Menu:

— Wednesday, Oct. 4: chicken strips, rice pilaf, green beans, aspic salad, apple cake

— Thursday, Oct. 5: Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes creamed corn, pear salad, peanut butter bars

— Friday, Oct. 6: baked fish, potato wedges, coleslaw, fruit crisp

— Monday Oct. 9: beef barley soup, roll, pickled beet, pineapple cake

— Tuesday, Oct. 10: beef stroganoff, pasta, mixed veggies, 3-bean salad baked apples, chocolate pie squares

— Wednesday, Oct. 11: chef salad, focaccia, pretzel Jell-O salad

Thursday, Oct. 12: barbecue ribs, baked beans, potato salad, lemon pudding

— Friday, Oct. 13: sausage links, biscuit and gravy, peas, fresh fruit, cookies

Activities calendar:

A veterans’ representative is here the first Friday and third Tuesday of each month

from 10 a.m. to noon.

Exercise class: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

(self-guided with video assistance).

Pinochle: Thursdays from 12:30-3 p.m.

Bingo: Fridays at 7 p.m.

- $100 blackout and on the first and third Wednesday of each month we offer playing card bingo at 7 p.m.

The pool table is open from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

By Donna Daniels for the Valley Journal

RONAN — Mission Valley Senior Center is located across from St. Luke’s Hospital. We are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for lunch and other activities.

Our menu is:

— Wednesday, Oct. 4: Tator Tot casserole, salad, dessert

— Friday, Oct. 6: clam chowder, salad, dessert

— Monday, Oct. 9: cheeseburgers, salad, dessert

— Wednesday, Oct. 11: beef Stroganoff, salad, dessert

We are having a bazaar on Nov. 18 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. If you are interested in a table, call us at 406-676-2371.

For our birthday dinner, we will have a 50/50 fund raiser. Tickets are $1 each or $5 for six tickets. The drawing will take place the same day.

Flu Shots will be available

Oct. 11 from 12:30–1:30 p.m.

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

We are looking for help again. If you are interested in a position, please stop in. Pinochle is held every Monday from 3:30-6 p.m. at the center. Everyone is welcome.

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

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

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

tend.

Lake County Health Department will be offering flu immunizations on Oct. 18 from 4-5 p.m. Please bring your Medicare card and your prescription card.

Bingo will be played on Oct. 14 at 2 p.m. Come join the fun.

The St. Ignatius Senior Center is looking to hire a Site Manager. The work is two to three days a week for 6-8 hour a day. If you are interested in the position, call 406-745-4462 for more information.

I want to thank the kitchen crew as they are making delicious meals and using local produce to prepare several of the dishes. We continue to welcome fresh produce from gardens and orchards.

yogurt

— Tuesday, Oct. 10: noon

- beef broccolis stir fry, rice, fruit salad, dessert

— Friday, Oct. 13: noon

- chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, lettuce, rolls, birthday cake

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

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

Gently Yoga is held on Wednesdays at 1-2:15 p.m.

If you are interested, call Bonnie Kiser at 406-2530177. Her rates are five sessions for $60.

St. Ignatius

By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST.

IGNATIUS —

Thanks to all that came to our yard sale and bought items and to those that purchased raffle tickets for the gift basket. The lady that won the basket was very thankful.

An AARP driving course will be held on Oct. 27. Call 405-745-4462 and leave message if you want to at -

We invite anyone to come and enjoy a meal or call for a take-out meal. Call 406745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays and by 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Meal times are listed below. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the center.

Menu:

— Friday, Sept 29: noon

- turkey veggie pot pie, fruit salad, dessert

— Tuesday, Oct. 3: noon

– ham/bean casserole, corn bread, coleslaw, cookies

— Wednesday, Oct. 4: supper at 5:30 p.m. - pork tenderloins, mashed potatoes, mixed veggies, rolls, pumpkin dessert

— Friday, Oct.6: noon

- split pea soup, egg salad sandwiches, peaches, vanilla

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

Our center is open to be rented. If you are interested, call 406-745-4462 and leave a message. We will return your call.

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

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

Ronan

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON CHANGING WATER AND WASTEWATER RATES AND CHANGING THE METHOD OF CHARGING WATER AND WASTEWATER RATES FOR THE PABLO/LAKE COUNTY WATER AND SEWER DISTRICT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on August 14, 2023 the Board (the “Board”) of the Pablo/Lake County Water and Sewer District (the “District”), adopted Resolutions of Intention to Change Water and Wastewater Rates. The District Board intends to increase the water rates to pay for increased debt service and increase operation and maintenance cost of the water and wastewater system.

The District proposes that a rate structure be established for the water users of the District based on the size of water meter or service line used and based on an equivalent domestic user of a ¾ inch water meter (an “EDU”). The EDU rate structure is a type of rate structure used by many other districts. Each meter or service size has an EDU multiplier associated with it (the “EDU Multiplier”) which reflects the relative contribution necessary to pay for the water or wastewater system capacity.

New Water Rates

The new monthly base rate charge per EDU for customers will be $38.06 per month. Customers will still be charged $1.31 per 1,000 gallons of water used per month in excess of the in amounts included in the base Rate. The amounts of gallons per month included in the Base Rate will stay 5,000 gallons per month times the EDU Multiplier. The proposed increase for customers with a 3/4 inch service line is $2.15 per month. The proposed new water rate schedule is:

In addition to the Monthly Base Rate identified above, the usage rate for gallons per month exceeding the amount included in the Base Rate is $1.31 per 1,000 gallons used per month. The other existing charges for water usage, such as late payment fees or bulk sales, remain the same.

New Wastewater Rates.

The proposed new rates for wastewater are based on the EDU multiplier for the user times a Base Rate, which is $21.21 per month. Wastewater users will still pay an additional $3.25 per 1,000 gallons of water used per month based on the prior Winter Months (November through April) average metered water use being charged in the Summer Months (May through October) and the actual metered water in the Winter Months. No amount of gallons per month is included with the Base Rate. The table below illustrates the new monthly rate calculation:

Other existing charges for wastewater service, such as late payment fees, hook-up, or system development fees remain the same.

On October 10, 2023 at 6 o’clock p.m., at the Pablo Elementary School, in Pablo, Montana, the Board will conduct a public hearing on the proposed water and wastewater rate changes. Comments may be given orally at the hearing or submitted in writing to the District Office, P.O. Box 550, Pablo, MT, 59855.

Wednesday, Oct. 4

Polson Chamber to host MWCD at luncheon

POLSON — The Polson Chamber of Commerce will host Mission West Community Development at noon luncheon at the Kwataqnuk Resort on Oct. 4. Their goal is to enhance the quality of life and economic well-being of all residents of the communities they serve. Mission West works with small businesses, community development organizations, cooperative businesses, and food and agriculture producers to enhance the economic well-being of the communities and businesses we serve. We offer businesses development services, food processing and manufacturing, cooperative business start-up support, community development assistance, and access to one-on-one free training, coaching, and mentoring from our expert network consultants to help you develop and bolster your business. Visit our website: www.missionwestcdp.org for information about our free business development services and to view our free business training and development workshop offerings.

Thursday, Oct. 5

Learn about Russia’s cyber campaign

KALISPELL — Flathead Valley Community College’s Continuing Education Center is hosting free community lectures and no registration is necessary. Lectures are held

in the Arts & Technology building, room 139.

“Subconscious Seduction: Russian Cyber Meddling in Eastern Europe” will

take place on Thursday, Oct. 5, from 6-7:30 p.m. Russia’s effort to menace Eastern Europe extends well beyond Ukraine as

Hungary, Serbia and the Baltic States. Winning the hearts and minds of this geostrategic region means securing voters and political party leaders who are sympathetic to Russia and, thus, uncooperative NATO and EU partners. This lecture discusses the nature of the threat and what it means for the U.S. and its allies. For more information about FVCC’s Continuing Education fall class offerings, visit: fvcc. edu/ContinuingEducation.

Saturday, Oct. 7

Free Indigenous Film Series begins

POLSON — The Flathead Reservation

Human Rights Coalition will sponsor a free film in their 7th Indigenous Film Series at the Showboat Stadium 6 in Polson at 1 p.m. The film is titled “And Now We Rise” and is a portrait of Samuel Johns, a young hip hop artist from Alaska. The public is invited to stay for a discussion after the film with Foreshadow a local rapper.

MME holds yard sale

POLSON — Go to the Mission Mountain Empowerment yard sale on Saturday, Oct. 7, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at 35647 S. Hills Drive.

Sunday, Oct. 8

Putin’s regime continues its cyber campaign to influence public opinion (and political leadership) in countries such as

day Oct. 8. Come join us on the hill at Polson Community Church at 10:30 a.m., 1814 1st St E, Polson. We also have “Seekers,” an adult Sunday School class, at 9:15 a.m.

Wednesday, Oct. 11

Walk around Lone Pine State Park

KALISPELL —

Come enjoy a pleasant, non-strenuous walk around Lone Pine State Park from at 3-4 p.m. Meet at the Lone Pine State Park Visitor Center. This program is meant to offer a chance to enjoy the fall foliage in the park with guided information about local flora and fauna. Whether you are new to the area or have lived here your whole life, come learn about the local ecosystem of the Flathead Valley. Please call 406-755-2706, ext. 0, to register, as space is limited. Cost is free ($8 park entry fee still applies to out-ofstate vehicles).

Thursday, Oct. 12 Register for virtual scary but true stories

New pastor welcomed

POLSON — Pastor Bruce Richter joins Polson Community Church for the first time of Sun-

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will present on Thursday, Oct. 12, from 6:30-8 p.m., “Hauntings of Montana” with Ellen Baumler. This is another in the Montana Library Network Virtual Program Series. This program is free and open to all. You must register to receive the link. Register at: https://

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO fall forest reflection

from page 22

tinyurl.com/hauntingsMT.  History and the supernatural are the canvas for this program that intertwines the past with the present. Historian, storyteller and award-winning author Ellen Baumler weaves a ghostly web in a thought-provoking journey to Montana’s most spirited places. Basing her true stories on firsthand accounts, personal interviews and historical records, her well-researched tales have scared and delighted audiences of all ages.

Friday, Oct. 13

Volunteers needed for Special Olympics basketball tournament

RONAN — Volunteers are needed for Coaches Day of Volunteers Unified Partners and Referees for Special Olympics Alex Braun Basketball Tournament on Oct. 13 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Call Lindsey Campbell at 406-3044034 or email: LCampbell@somt.org for more information.

German dinner served at Elks Club

POLSON — A German dinner of schnitzel, spaetzle, red cabbage, salad and dessert will be served for $15 a plate at the Mission Valley Elks Lodge – 1695 on Oct. 13 at 6 p.m. Buy tickets in advance – ask bartender.

Update given on library donations

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library’s Friends

of the Library group has generously offered to take on our book and movie donation program. Starting now, we will accept encyclopedias that are 40 years old or older and textbooks. Condition rules still apply. There is no longer a limit to how many donations the library can take. However, if you are planning to bring more than three boxes of materials for donation, please contact us ahead of time so we can make arrangements.

We still do not have the space to house donations, so the Friends will come to the library every other Friday to sort and haul them away to their storage facility for future book sales.

If you have a large donation, we would appreciate it if you would drop off during the afternoon on either Oct. 13 or Oct.

Saturday, Oct. 14

Fall Fest held at Wayfarers

BIGFORK — Flathead Lake State Park – Wayfarers Unit in Bigfork is holding its annual Fall Fest on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The event celebrates the arrival of fall with all the changes it brings to the park. The event will include food, warm beverages, games, crafts, prizes and fun for the whole family.

There is no cost to attend the event and no reservation required.

Free Indigenous Film Series continues

POLSON — The Flathead Reservation Human Rights Coalition

will sponsor a free film in their 7th Indigenous Film Series at the Showboat Stadium 6 in Polson at 1 p.m. on Oct. 14.

“Daughter of a Lost Bird” is about Kendra, an adult Native adoptee, who reconnects with her birth family, discovers her Lummi heritage, and confronts issues of her own identity.

Sunday, Oct. 15

Church welcomes all

POLSON — Feeling lost in your faith? Free guidance every Sunday. Come join us on the hill at Polson Community Church at 10:30 a.m., 1814 First St. E. We also have “Seekers,” an adult Sunday School class, at 9:15 a.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 17

Order take-out Harvest Dinner

POLSON — Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 409 Fourth Ave.

E, will hold their 53rd annual Harvest Dinner on Tuesday, Oct. 17, from 4-6 p.m. Take-out orders only for $15 per dinner.

Dinners will include Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes/gravy, coleslaw, green beans, rolls, and pumpkin pie. Homemade Lefse may be purchased at $5 for a package of four. Order ahead of time by calling or will be available for purchase at the door. Call 406-883-5864 to place your take-out order and or Lefse order.

Everyone is welcome.

Wednesday, Oct. 18

Teens invited to paint

POLSON — On

Wednesday, Oct. 18, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. the North Lake County Public Library’s TAG (Teen Advisory Group) will hold an event: Glow Crazy Paint by Number. Come paint with us. This event is for anyone interested in joining the library’s Teen Advisory Group. We will have some paint-by-number and some blank canvasesand we even have a bit of glow in the dark paint.  If you have any questions, please call Felicia at: 406-883-8225. This program will be held at the library’s temporary location: 301 16th Ave. E (First United Methodist Church Building).

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

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

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

PUZZLES

GIANT CROSSWORD

ACROSS 1. Con

6. Architectural underside

64. Last word of “America the Beautiful”

65. Ceasefire

67. Dance

68. Speak in public

70. Barely get, with “out”

73. Directs

75. Cal. col.

76. Alum

80. Doesn’t work

82. Created a web site?

83. “Hold on a ___!”

84. “The possession of fools”: Herodotus

85. Deck out

86. Long-legged bird

89. Checked for fit

91. Camping gear

92. Trust

93. Cast

94. Break time

97. Kind of wrench

98. Links rental

100. Charge

101. Twelfth Night, vis-à-vis Epiphany

102. Burn cause

103. Part of the Spanish Armada

106. Coming down

110. Infant’s illness

111. AM/FM device

115. Roman general

117. Cotton fabric

118. Cake topper

119. Crockett’s milieu

120. Land

121. Fire

122. Bite

123. “Losing My Religion” rock group

124. Krypton, e.g.

125. Freetown currency unit

DOWN

1. Pigeon’s home

2. Throw with force

3. And others, for short

4. ___ one

5. Clandestine

6. Layers

7. Salem’s home

8. Belong

9. Jester’s headgear

10. Doing nothing

11. Spread, as hay

12. Dear

13. x, y or z

14. Feeble fellow

15. Saint Petersburg, until 1991

16. Persia, today

17. Bar mitzvah, e.g.

18. Air force heroes

22. Ban

30. Language of Pakistan

31. Fledgling businesses

32. Epic by Virgil

33. Impressive or meant to impress

35. High hat

36. Anoint with sacred oil, old-style

37. Confessed, with “up”

40. Aardvark’s tidbit

42. Song thrush

43. Banded stone

44. Chip dip

46. English race place

47. Depress, with “out”

50. Handle, as paperwork

52. Take away

53. Place that allows “eggs-tradition”?

56. During or after childbirth

60. Off-road vehicle

61. Bedspread material

62. ___ v. Wade

63. “Dig in!”

66. Like Santa’s cheeks

69. Cousin of a bittern 70. Send, in a way 71. “M*A*S*H” setting 72. Brings home

“By all means!” 77. Free from 78. Be crazy about 79. Doltish 81. Unhealthy 83. Gabriel, for one 84. Photographic feature 87. Potato feature 88. Landlocked country 90. Choice 95. Boot out

“La Loge” artist

Bromide 99. “Jo’s Boys” author

Adjust, in a way

Button material

Flat floater

Indian tourist site

“Pumping ___”

High spirits

Poker action

Lover of Aeneas

Let ___ a secret

Shrek, for one

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

DOT-TO-DOT

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

MIRROR IMAGE

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

A B C D

SOLUTIONS

117. Calico, 118. Icing, 119. Frontier, 120. Alight, 121. Ardor, 122. Tang, 123. REM, 124. Planet, 125. Leone. Down: 1. Cote, 2. Hurl, 3. Et al, 4. Admit, 5. Top-secret, 6. Strata, 7. Oregon, 8. Fit in, 9. Fool’s cap, 10. Idle, 11. Ted, 12. Pet, 13. Axis, 14. Dotard, 15. Leningrad, 16. Iran, 17. Rite, 18. Aces, 22. Taboo, 30. Urdu, 31. Startups,

83. San, 84. Pictorial, 87. Eye, 88. Mongolia, 90. Rare, 95. Evict, 96. Renoir, 98. Cliché, 99. Alcott, 104. Align, 105. Nacre,

78. Adore, 79. Dense, 81. Fattening,

72. Earns, 74. Surely, 77. Rid of,

66. Rosy, 69. Egret, 70. Elate, 71. Korea,

60. SUV, 61. Chenille, 62. Roe, 63. Eat,

46. Ascot, 47. Bum, 50. Process, 52. Detract, 53. Nest, 56. Puerperal,

42. Mavis, 43. Agate, 44. Salsa,

36. Anele, 37. Owned, 40. Ant,

32. Aeneid, 33. Grandiose, 35. Miter,

Announcements

Special Notices

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

Employment

Help wanted

TRIBAL RELATIONS SPECIALIST - TRIBAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT OFFICE - PABLO

The successful applicant is preferred to have a Bachelors’ degree in environmental science, historical preservation and conservations, or related field with at least 5 years’ increasing experience in management or administration, preferably within the CSKT organization. Or, equivalent education and experience in a related management field (land management, culture preservation and conservation, natural resource management or other renewable resource management) including management or administration preferably within the CSKT system. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, copy of degree/academic transcripts, training certificates, licensure, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. Failure to submit all of the above information will result in immediate disqualification during the screening process. This is a Testing Designated

Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $32.60 to $37.47 per hour, plus benefits. May be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available on-line at cskt.org. The closing date is Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023 at 5:30 p.m. MST CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Caregiver wanted. Call (406) 240-8971.

LEAD REGISTERED NURSE CARE MANAGER (RNCM) (ST. IGNATIUS) TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must be graduate of an accredited school of nursing. Preference of a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse license from the State of Montana or compact state. Two years’ nursing experience, chronic disease management preferred. Must have at least three years of supervisory experience. Basic Life Support certification.

Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred. Certificate in Care Coordination preferred, required within one (1) year of employment. Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcripts, certifications, proof of state licensure, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a

pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $37.69 - $43.32 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@ cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday, October 12, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE

wanted

Valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript, certifications, proof of state licensure, a copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $16.72 - $19.22 per hour, may be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@ cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. (MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Real Estate For Sale

Sapphire Village HideawaySteven Presley Estate TIMED ON-LINE ONLY AUCTION

Sapphire Village, MT (9.5 miles SW of Utica, MT) Selling residence w/ 3 lots, vehicles, ATV, 18 firearms, gun safe, shop tools/ equip., house

appliances.

Bidding ends: THURS., OCT. 12th, 2023. 6:00 pm.

See website for previewing & check-out info.

View catalog & bid @ www.ShobeAuction.com

Ph. 406-538-5125

Legals

Legals

Charlo School District 7J Board of Trustees intends to hire Alyssa Cahoon, wife of Trustee Danielle Cahoon, as part time Title One Teacher. This hiring will take place at a Special Board meeting on October 10, 2023 at 7:00 pm in the Charlo School Library.

Sept. 27 and Oct. 4, 2023 MNAXLP

advertising in

is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Montana

Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, familial status, physical or mental disability, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Tollfree at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

Service Directory

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

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

Custodian Part-time

Salary Range: $13.21/hr

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

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

Range: $38,880 - $45,725

Date: Open Until Filled Health Promotion Practices Department Chair 11-month term (July off) which includes $2500 Dept. Head stipend Salary Range DOEE: $45,778 - $48,716 Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Services Supervisor

Range: $18.28 – $18.72 DOEE

Native American Studies Cultural Specialist/Instructor (9 months)

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

Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023; 4:00pm

College & Career Readiness Coach (3 positions open)

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

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

College Career Readiness Mentor (5 Positions Open)

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

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

NYCP College & Career Readiness Instructor (9 months)

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center-Preschool Teacher (9.5 months)

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center-Lead Infant Teacher (9.5 months)

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

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

Early Learning Center-Assistant Teacher (9.5 months)

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Early Learning Center-Toddler Teacher (9.5 months)

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Library Assistant (part time)

Salary Range: $13.06/hr-$13.93/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Indigenous Research Center (IRC) Program Assistant

Salary Range: $38,443-$40,789 DOEE Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

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

Salary Range: $50,176-$53,696 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Administrative Assistant - TRIO Student Support Services

Salary Range: $16.97/hr-$19.15/hr DOEE Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023; 4:00pm

Accounting Tech/Receptionist

Salary Range: $14.16 - $14.48/hr DOEE Closing Date: Monday, Oct. 2, 2023; 4:00pm

Assisant to Graduate Division Dean

Salary Range: $44,310-$49,003 Closing Date: Monday, Oct. 2, 2023; 4:00pm

Tribal Governance Administration (TGA) Instructor

Salary Range: $43,621-$44,670 DOEE Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023; 4:00pm

Prevention Specialist-Community Health & Development

Salary Range: $40,789-$44,310 DOEE Closing date: Monday, Oct. 16, 2023; 4:00pm

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