10-06-21 valley journal by Valley Journal

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your homegrown newspaper October 6, 2021

Homecoming pg. 16

No place like home Stakeholders work to offer affordable housing as prices continue to skyrocket by M.S. Sacry for the Valley Journal

Teacher of Year pg. 21

Live music pg. 24

MONTANA — Six years ago Angela Claver sold her home in Great Falls and decided to move to Polson to work in the public library. She had visited friends in the area previously and knew that finding housing wouldn’t be easy. Even then, housing was hard to come by, especially something affordable. She moved into the Lakeview Village in Polson and lived there for two years, four months. “I felt very fortunate when I got into those apartments,” she said. “I just made it work for a couple of years.” Claver lived frugally and after her stay in Lakeview Village, she was able to snag a place

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Angela Claver plays the piano at her new home in Polson. Through the help of friends, Claver was able to find a place to rent after she and fellow apartment tenants were given one-week eviction notices. Owners of the apartments they rented were upgrading the building and charging more for rent.

in the Lake Place Apartments. The lakefront apartments were a nice upgrade. But in May, life at the apartments with an idyllic lakefront view turned stormy, as the owners of the building decided they wanted to upgrade the building, replace the tenants living there, and charge more.

“The price they put on my unit is comparable to my classmate’s unit in Spokane,” Claver said. On May 24, Claver says that she and her neighbors were given notice that they would need to move by June 1. “Even they knew that was pretty near impossible,” Claver said. The housing mar-

w w w.va l le yj our na l.net

ket has boomed in the pandemic nationwide, as supply chain issues abounded for building materials including everything from lumber to appliances, causing a steep rise in prices. The Windemere Real Estate 2021 Q2 Market Update was released Aug. 9. The company says that while some Montana counties

Vol. 18, No. 3

have seen a slow down in the mad grab for property, Lake County real estate remains in demand, with the number of home sales in the second quarter of 2021 up 21.3% compared to the same quarter last year. The prices of those homes has also risen, on average 57.6% in the same time frame. Zillow lists the average price of a home in Lake County, as of August, at $383,740. Claver said she considered getting qualified to buy, but with the market and prices the way they are currently, she knew that finding an affordable, available home in the time frame given would be nearly impossible. Her search for rentals also came up empty at first. Her only solid lead was a coworker who offered a basement. She checked into finding a storage unit to store her things. “There isn’t even a storage unit to be had,” Claver said. see page 2

housing from page 1

She was feeling pretty desperate one night, playing piano for the Port Polson Players, praying that the situation would resolve. “I’m telling God this is not OK. I have no place to live,” she said. Out of the blue, folks at rehearsal brought up the housing situation, and Claver got a lead through a fellow member of a knitting group she attends. “I think it was the grace of God and the help of good people in Polson,” Claver said of being able to find a house to rent. Still, the sting of the process lingers. Claver says she’s not bitter over the ordeal and agrees that property owners have a right to make profits, but the way her eviction was handled left a sour taste. Claver was able to move out of her Lake Place apartment the first week of August. She was served papers telling her to leave July 23. “They told me I had not acted in good faith... They knew what kind of climate they were in and they knew the effort was being made,” Claver said. She worries about her former neighbors. Several were in their 80s or 90s and with health issues when they received notice to move. “You’re 90 years old and you are booted out of your house,” she said. The situation, she added, boils down to greed. “They’re 2 - October 6, 2021

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Under an apricot tree in the backyard of her new home, Claver says she’s thankful to have found housing. She worries for some of her former neighbors though, especially elderly individuals, who may have had more difficulty relocating.

just being greedy. They are exploiting the 103 feet of Lakeshore.” A seventh generation Montanan, Claver is thankful that her community connections run deep and helped her stay. “It did work out good for me because of other people,” Claver said. “Do try to stay connected. Don’t try to do it alone. I wish people weren’t so greedy and opportunistic. Polson does not have a whole lot of choices in the middle ground. The struggle is real.” For those who don’t have support, the housing crisis can be even more acute. Missoula lies an hour’s drive away from Polson, but it provides one of the only homeless shelters in the area, and the largest shelter in the state. Last week a dozen

tents were seen outside the Poverello Center, and team leaders told the media that it’s because warming shelters haven’t opened yet for the year and demand for the shelter’s limited space is high. Some of those people seeking shelter are from Lake County. “I fielded a call from a young woman last week who was losing her housing in Polson and trying to find resources,” Sarah Penix, communications coordinator for the Poverello Center said. “She wanted to stay in Polson because that is where her kids were, but was unable to afford a motel to tide her over until she found another housing option. She said that it would be tough to secure a place to live in Polson while staying in Missoula but she could not think of other

options.” The situation isn’t ideal, but many people from Lake County ended up at the shelter over the years, Penix said. “I did a brief check-in with staff and they can think of guests from St. Ignatius, Arlee, Polson, Pablo,” Penix said. “People do not want to be in Missoula and it ends up being a hassle doing day-to-day business there while sheltering in Missoula. This isn’t unique to the Mission Valley - we also see people from the area of Idaho between here and Spokane.” Finding housing solutions is tough and some ideas put forth by local governments have been shot down at the state level. In April, Governor Greg Gianforte signed House Bill 259. The new law makes it illegal

Valley Journal

for cities to require that builders provide some affordable homes in developments. This killed affordable housing programs in Bozeman and Whitefish, which had put inclusionary housing measure in place in 2018. Montana State Senator Greg Hertz of Polson said in the second reading of the bill on the Senate Floor in March that supply issues were the root of the housing shortage. “I believe in local control, but when they infringe upon property rights then we have to stop them,” Hertz said. Lake County Commissioner Gale Decker says local officials are aware of the housing issues community members face, but unfortunately, they don’t have the resources to fix the problem. “The county does not have the ability to have much of an impact on affordable housing,” Decker said. “We do not have the finances to build housing or manage if we were able to build.” Outof-area workers have had trouble finding housing when trying to come on board to work for the county. “We are investigating if we could construct some housing that would be made available to county employees. The cost is significant as any project would have to go through sub-division review and environmental assessment. Providing affordable housing is complicated and no one seems to have any good answers.”

While one might think that skyrocketing property values would mean an increase to the county’s coffers, that’s not really the case. Commissioner Bill Barron explained how Montana’s property tax system works. “The value of your property, whether it goes up or down, plays a very small part in the county’s tax revenue,” he said. “Several years ago when the residents of Montana passed a ‘Citizens Initiative’ to freeze property taxes, our state legislature put the current tax system in place. Each year we start with the previous year’s tax revenue and add an inflation adjustment. The adjustment is ½ of 1% of a rolling three-year average of inflation. We then get to add the tax revenue from new construction. This is the formula that is used for the current year tax revenue regardless of your property value.” Barron said the county’s new additional property tax revenue for the year will be $347,160. “This is the highest level of new growth tax revenue I have witnessed in the last 12 years as commissioner,” Barron said. “Our finance officer said it averages around $50,000 a year.” According to Decker, another problem is at issue. While more and more people might be coming to the county, they aren’t bringing brick and mortar business or industries to help grow the work force. see page 26

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This Week’s Weather Forecast Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

October 7

October 8

October 9

October 10

October 11

October 12

65°/38°

55°/37°

55°/35°

56°/34°

55°/33°

46°/29°

Partly Cloudy 3% chance precipitation

Rain 35% chance precipitation

Partly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation

Partly Cloudy 18% chance precipitation

46/27°

Wednesday

Thursday

October 6

Tuesday

Rain 38% chance precipitation

Rain/Snow Showers 37% chance precipitation

Flathead Lake Level 2891.30 ft (1.7 ft below full pool)

WED 10/06

7:42 am

7:07 pm

7:47 am

7:36 pm

THUR

7:43 am

7:05 pm

9:09 am

7:58 pm

7:45 am

7:03 pm

10:32 am

8:25 pm

October 6, 2020

8:57 pm

High 73° F

10/07

FRI 10/08

Today in History

SAT 10/09

7:46 am

7:01 pm

11:56 am

SUN 10/10

7:46 am

6:59 pm

1:18 pm

MON 10/11

7:48 am

6:57 pm

2:32 pm

10:31 pm

Record High 84° F

TUES

7:49 am

6:55 pm

3:34 pm

11:35 pm

Record Low 23° F

10/12

Valley Journal

9:39 pm

Low 35° F Precipitation 0.0 inches

October 6, 2021 - 3

contents Water management.......7

Puzzles ......................18

Courts ...........................8

Seniors .......................20

Valley Views.................10

Calendar .....................24

Homecoming ......16 & 17

Classifieds...................28

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

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Valley Journal The Valley Journal newspaper (PE 23-190) is published weekly by Valley Journal LLC. Periodicals postage paid at Ronan, MT. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Distribution is by mail subscription ($59 per year in Lake County, MT; $74 per year elsewhere in U.S.) and by newsstand sales. Postmaster: send address changes to Valley Journal, P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT. 59864. Your homegrown newspaper serves residents of Lake 4 - October 6, 2021

2021 County and the Flathead Indian Reservation. Deadline for display advertising is 2 p.m.Thursday. Deadline for news submissions, calendar items, classifieds and legal advertising is noon Friday, for the following week’s newspaper. News, letters to the editor and calendar submissions may be sent by email to: vjeditor@valleyjournal.net. Classified and legal advertisements requests should be emailed to: vjmail@valleyjournal.net. All print subscriptions include full access to online news, Valley Journal

archives. Sign up online at: www.valleyjournal.net/ subscribe For general inquiries: call 406-676-8989, email summer@valleyjournal.net, or send mail correspondence to P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT 59864. Copyright 2021, the Valley Journal. All rights reserved. Reproduction, reuse or transmittal in any form or by any means is prohibited without written permission of the Valley Journal.

‘Gofundme’ drive started for Polson woman needing liver transplant POLSON — A fundraiser has been set up through the gofundme fundraising platform to help pay for medical bills and a liver transplant for Polson resident Pam Weivoda, 56. According to fundraiser organizer Kathy Devlin, Pam “has been in declining health for the past three years enduring many tests and treatments. In the last two months she was diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatisis (NASH). Her liver is failing, and without a liver transplant, she won’t make it.” Pam is a long time Polson resident and the wife of Mike Weivoda, son of the late Wally and Gerry Weivoda. The couple raised their two children, Brianna and Tony, in Polson. Pam’s gofundme page reads: “Pam was a daycare worker for years, then an event caterer, and worked for many years with Lake County Council on Aging giving care and comfort to elderly citizens. Her care and concern for others shines through whether she’s baking for a family in crisis, running errands for her clients, or just packing her husband’s and son’s lunches at the crack of dawn before sending them off to work. She is a woman you could count on ... and now she needs you.” Her gofundme story continues: “Pam is to leave for Seattle upon gaining enough strength for her first visit to the University of Washington Medical Center for examinations that will lead

EDEN BRYANT PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO

Pam and Mike Weivoda

to her being on the liver transplant list. There will be no end in sight of expenses in the build-up to the transplant, transportation to and from Seattle pre-procedure, the transplant itself and the three month long post-op stay in Washington, which will include PT and OT. Any donation amount you can give to help Pam get the treatment she so desperately needs would be appreciated. This wife, mother, grandmother, and friend needs to get on the road to wellness and back to being the wonderful YaYa everyone counts on and loves.” Donations can be made through the gofundme website under “Fund Pam’s medical bills-liver transplant.”

Boulder 2700 reopened News from CSKT Division of Fire

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Division of Fire would like to inform the public that the Boulder 2700 Road is open. DOF officials want to stress to the public that there is fire traffic in the area, and to be cautious when traveling through the fire area. Drivers also need to be aware of existing hazards in the fire area including rolling rocks and debris, firefighter engines and crew vehicles, and utility vehicles. Motorists may not stop in the fire area due to these hazards.

Valley Journal

October 6, 2021 - 5

A Mission Mountain Food Enterprise Center employee boxes food for the Local Food for Local Families food box project.

COURTESY PHOTO

MMFEC receives $100,000 grant for Food Box Program News from Mission West Community Development Partners

RONAN – The Mission Mountain Food Enterprise Center (MMFEC) has received a $100,000 grant from the Montana Healthcare Foundation to support its Food Box Program. The Local Food for Local Families: Montana SNAP Food Box Pilot Project provides fresh, high-quality food items from Montana producers and processors to families with low incomes in Western Montana. Through this pilot, boxes of local foods sourced from the Western Montana Growers Cooperative are made available weekly for purchase with SNAP or cash at Camas Organic Market in Hot Springs, Arlee Community Development Corporation in Arlee, and Farm Hands Nourish the Flathead in Columbia Falls. If purchasing with SNAP, families receive an instant Double SNAP Dollar match through a partnership with the Community Food and Agriculture Coalition. “We began distributing food boxes in July 2020, and we are building on the positive feedback from those boxes to create this additional opportunity for families to purchase fresh, healthy, local foods at affordable prices while supporting local producers,” said Anne 6 - October 6, 2021

Harney, Local Food Promotion Coordinator for MMFEC. “We are thankful for the support of our pilot partners and the Montana Healthcare Foundation to help provide more local food to local families.” About Mission Mountain Food Enterprise Center The Mission Mountain Food Enterprise Center is a 13,000 square foot FDA registered, USDA meat inspected, certified organic shared-use food processing and manufacturing facility in downtown Ronan. MMFEC is a division of Mission West Community Development Partners. About the Montana Healthcare Foundation MHCF makes strategic investments to improve the health and well-being of all Montanans. Created in 2013, MHCF has approximately $170 million in assets making it Montana’s largest health-focused, private foundation. MHCF contributes to a measurably healthier state by supporting access to quality and affordable health services, conducting evidence-driven research and analysis, and addressing the upstream influences on health and illness. To learn more about the Foundation and its focus areas, please visit mthcf.org. Valley Journal

Water management board applicants sought By Kristi Niemeyer for the Valley Journal

MONTANA — Since the Secretary of Interior signed off on the Confederated Salish and Kootenai-Montana Compact Sept. 17, state and tribal governments are moving ahead to establish the Water Management Board, charged with administering water rights on the reservation. County Commissioners in the four counties encompassed by the Flathead Reservation – Lake, Sanders, Missoula and Flathead – have 90 days from the date the compact was signed to submit nominations to the governor for the new board. Lake County submits the preponderance with five nominees; Sanders County, three; Missoula County, two; and Flathead County, one. Of those 11 names, Gov. Greg Gianforte will appoint two members to the five-member board. The Tribal Council will also choose two and a fifth will be selected by the four members of the board. The Department of Interior appoints a sixth non-voting member. Lake County Commissioner Gale Decker said last week that commissioners have already received several inquiries, and an advertisement for the position appears in local newspapers this

week. According to the language of the Compact, candidates must be over 18 and live within the reservation boundaries, which can also mean someone who does business here or who owns and maintains a seasonal residence. Qualified applicants also need to have education and experience in at least one of the following fields: natural resources management, public administration, agriculture, engineering, commerce, finance, hydrology, biological sciences, water law or water policy. Elected officials aren’t eligible, although employees or contractors of state, tribal or federal government are. The water board is charged with overseeing the Unitary Administration and Management Ordinance, a document that dictates procedures for administering water uses on the reservation, and processes for permitting new uses and enforcing water rights. The commissioners met with Sanders County Commissioner Glen Magera on Sept. 21, and agreed to collaborate on the language that appears in the advertisement and application document. Colleagues in Sanders County “think they’re going to have a very difficult time coming up with three names to

match the skill set since they have a much smaller population to draw from,” said Decker. Decker and fellow commissioner Bill Barron are both optimistic that Lake County will have a healthy supply of qualified candidates, although neither was prepared to estimate how much time serving on the board will require. “I think it’s going to be huge the first year,” predicted Barron. After the board convenes, presumably early next year, members must hire a water engineer to directly oversee the water resources staff, provide technical assistance to the board, “and have the skill to deal with a diverse and sometimes contentious public.” The vote for engineer must be unanimous. Arriving at the Compact – which quantifies and provides the framework for administering water rights on the reservation – has been a long, and often divisive process. Commissioners don’t expect those divides to be easily or quickly straddled, and say finding candidates for the board who are completely neutral on the Compact is unlikely. “There are going to be very few people that don’t have an opinion one way or the other – pro or anti Compact,” says Decker. “We just

need to have people who are going to be reasonable and open and able to at least consider the argument.” Barron adds that even naysayers “might have some great ideas that could help make it work.” Both commissioners anticipate that candidates from Lake County’s three irrigation districts – Jocko, Mission and Flathead – will be among the applicants. The Compact stipulates that compensation for those serving on the water board will be determined by whichever government entity appoints the members (state, tribal or federal government). For an application packet or additional information, contact the county commissions at lakecommissioners@ lakemt.gov or 406-8837204 by Nov. 1; commissioners expect to forward the names of five nominees to the governor by the end of November.

Valley Journal

Funding for New State Park on Flathead Lake secured Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to purchase 105 acres at Somers Beach

News from the office of Senator Tester

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senator Jon Tester announced last week he secured $1.3 million dollars to help Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks acquire 105.67 acres of land along the north shore of Flathead Lake called Somers Beach for the creation of a new state park. Tester also announced an additional $472,500 to help FWP clean up and renovate Westside Park in Missoula. “Folks come to Western Montana from all across the world to enjoy our unique landscapes, and this is great news for our economy and for everyone who cares about our public lands,” Tester said. “I am proud to have helped secure this funding, and I look forward to continuing our work to ensure these lands – and the outdoor recreation economy that depends on them – will remain open to the public for generations to come.” The new state park at Somers Beach will sit on eastern edge of the town of Somers and will be administered by Montana FWP. The Westside Park project will include demolition of an outdated playground, basketball court, and asphalt walkways, and fund new construction including utility extension, a concrete playground pod, new playground toys, a multi-use paved court, new paved paths and landscape improvements. Tester secured the funding through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, which uses revenues from oil and gas leasing to fund conservation and recreation priorities across the nation. Tester pushed for full, permanent funding for the LWCF, and secured it by passing the Great American Outdoors Act, which funds the program at $900 million annually and allocated $9.5 billion to address maintenance backlogs on public lands across the United States.

Call us to make an eye appointment at

406-676-3937 417 Main St. SW, Ronan ronaneyeclinic.com October 6, 2021 - 7

courts Stories by Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal

Corcoran pleads guilty to endangerment, assault, intimidation POLSON — A Charlo man, who was accused of threatening the mother of his child and her fiance with a gun, admitted to some of the allegations against him. Stoney Randal Corcoran, 51, pled guilty at District Court in Polson Sept. 30 to felony charges of criminal endangerment, assault on a peace or judicial officer and intimidation. According to court records, on March 23, Lake County Sheriff ’s deputies responded to an unspecified gas station in Ronan on a report that Corcoran had chased a woman down, threatened her with a gun and was blocking her in with his

Ford Bronco. The woman was identified only by her initials, J.M. At the scene, the first responding Steve Corcoran deputy ordered Corcoran to the ground out of fears he had a gun. Corcoran allegedly refused and fought with the deputy, punching him in the left cheek. A second deputy was able to take Corcoran into custody. A relative of the alleged victim told deputies that Corcoran had come to her house to pick up

his daughter that he shares with J.M., but was unable to take her and left. He left but soon after spotted J.M. driving along U.S. Highway 93. He allegedly began to follow her while forcing other motorists to take evasive action to avoid colliding and seemed to be attempting to run her off the road while brandishing a gun. J.M. stated the Corcoran texted her that if she gets a restraining order “see how good it does her” and that she would never see her fiance again. J.M. also stated that Corcoran had come to her place of work and let himself into her house. At the house Corcoran is

Charlo man faces three criminal cases A Charlo man is facing three separate criminal cases in Lake County, all involving drug possession charges. Josiah Ray Senecal, 28, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson on Sept. 29 to five counts of criminal possession of dangerous drugs. According to court records, on April 18, 2018, Senecal was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia containing methamphetamine residue and was charged with one count of criminal possession of dangerous drugs. The second case involved a probation search of a hotel room in Polson where Senecal was staying Jan. 28, 8 - October 6, 2021

2020. Law enforcement officers allegedly found heroin, methamphetamine, a firearm and two young children in the room. In the third case, law enforcement was called to investigate a suspicious extension cord leading to a storage closet in government housing Jan. 27. Senecal was located inside the closet, apparently trying to live in it. Senecal was allegedly in possession of drug paraphernalia containing methamphetamine residue and a rubber ball containing a substance that later tested positive for heroin. District Judge James Manley set all three cases for trial Feb. 28.

alleged to have held the fiance at gunpoint until the fiance was able to de-escalate the situation. On another occasion, Corcoran allegedly pointed a gun at J.M. and her fiance as they were driving around in the Charlo area. Records show Corcoran was sentenced to the Montana State Prison in July 1989 for ten years with seven suspended for aggravated assault with a dangerous weapon. He has since been sent back to prison on numerous occasions for both violating terms of his probation and committing more crimes in at least three other counties in Western Montana and

the state of Washington. The crimes mentioned in his report of violations include domestic violence, drug possession and failing to register as a violent offender in Lake County in 1991. As part of the plea agreement, two counts of assault with a weapon are to be dismissed at sentencing. The agreement comes with a joint recommendation of 30 years in the Montana State Prison with 20 years suspended. Judge Robert J. Whelan of Butte presided over the case via the Zoom platform. He set sentencing for Dec. 2. Corcoran remains in the Lake County jail.

St. Ignatius man charged with 8th DUI A St. Ignatius man is facing what prosecutors say would be his eighth DUI if convicted. Raymond Burton McIntyre, 48, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson Sept. 29 to felony DUI, fourth or subsequent offense. According to court records, on Aug. 7, as law enforcement officers were patrolling U.S. Highway 93 they observed a motorcycle pass them driving in the opposite direction with no taillights. The officers began to pursue the motorcycle in an effort

Valley Journal

to conduct a traffic stop, but the driver refused to stop. The motorcycle turned onto Hawkins Road and traveled west bound before sliding into a ditch. The rider, later identified as McIntyre, denied having consumed alcohol. He refused a preliminary breath test. Officers obtained a search warrant for a blood draw at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson. The blood draw showed McIntyre’s blood alcohol content at .218. Judge James Manley set this case for trial Feb. 28.

Burn debris without permit Oct. 1-Nov. 3 News from CSKT Division of Fire

FLATHEAD RESERVATION — Open debris burning began on the Flathead Reservation Oct. 1. You do not need a Burn Permit from Oct. 1 – Nov. 30. Though fire danger on the Flathead Reservation is currently moderate, the Division of Fire stresses safety when burning. If you have any questions call the the DOF at 676-2550. Prohibited burn materials include - business waste, treated/painted wood or lumber, tar paper, tires, insulated wire, any salvage, oil products, Styrofoam or plastics, food wastes, animal parts or waste, hazardous waste, noxious waste, and any man-made material. Trade Waste permits may be issued for wood or wood by-product trade wastes generated by any business, industry trade, or demolition project. Trade waste permits may be obtained by calling your local city-county health department. Burn only natural vegetation and woody materials. Keep piles clean and free of dirt. Use brush blades on dozers when piling slash. When possible, use an excavator to pile. Build small piles of yard debris so the fire see page 9

open burning from page 8

will be hot, yet manageable. Wet or dirt-covered materials will cause fires to smolder and emit more smoke. Build debris piles in openings away from bodies of water, structures, or overhead branches and wires. Piles can be covered with plastic or waterproof paper and anchored with additional slash. Create a control line by scraping away debris and any other burnable materials several feet around the piles to be burned. The result should be bare soil around each pile. You may also use a hose to wet down the area around the pile. Keep plenty of water and sufficient personnel, tools, and equipment ready in case of changes in fire behavior. Light the fire only when you have an update on safe weather and safe burning conditions. When possible, make plans to re-pile debris as material is consumed. This will allow the fire to burn out as quickly as possible. Stay with your fire. Put your fire out if it becomes difficult to manage. If you intend to burn, have in place: a current weather forecast for your local area, water source (hose, buckets, pond or lake), fire tools or equipment depending on the size of your burn, enough help to respond in the event that fire behavior increases. Caution: Do not burn when high or erratic winds are forecast or dry conditions prevail. Do not attempt to bury any burning material as fire can and will burn undergound.

Governor sued for blocking release of public records News from Rylee Sommers-Flanagan, Upper Seven Law

HELENA — Governor Greg Gianforte is facing legal action for refusing to release records from the legislative session, according to a new lawsuit filed today in Helena. The lawsuit seeks release of “Agency Bill Monitoring Forms” created by Gianforte and his staff. The forms are new to the executive branch, and precisely what they contain is a mystery, but they likely show whether the Administration believed bills advancing through the legislature had serious legal problems or were unconstitutional. The Governor has refused to divulge any information about the forms—not even how many were sent to and from his Office. The suit comes after the Governor refused to release any portion of the records in response to information requests. The plaintiff claims that the public has the right to examine documents under the Montana

“Montanans have a constitutional right to observe deliberations of their government.” RAPH GRAYBILL, GRAYBILL LAW FIRM ATTORNEY, COMPLAINANT

Constitution’s Right to Know provision and that the Governor has improperly cited legal privileges that do not apply to avoid releasing the documents. In May 2021, Montana citizen Jayson O’Neill requested the Agency Bill Monitoring Forms from the Governor’s Office. In violation of the public’s Right to Know, the Governor denied Mr. O’Neill’s request, asserting that the forms are protected by attorney-client privilege. Mr. O’Neill then requested a privilege log—a routine document that identifies why certain information is privileged. The Governor also denied this request, refusing to disclose even the number of Agency Bill Monitoring Forms created and shared within his

Administration. In Montana, the Right to Know is a constitutional directive that guarantees citizen access to documents and deliberations that public bodies use and produce in their decision-making process. The framers of the Montana Constitution understood that sunlight is the best disinfectant against corrupt or unscrupulous acts, believing that public participation and transparency fundamentally improve the operation of government. The Right to Know applies to everything from legislation to agency decisions about how to spend taxpayer dollars. The Governor’s Office is not exempt. Constance Van Kley and Rylee Sommers-Flanagan of

the nonprofit law firm Upper Seven Law teamed up with the Graybill Law Firm to file the complaint. “These forms tell the story of what the Governor knew about bills that threatened Montanans’ constitutional liberties,” said attorney Raph Graybill. “Montanans have a constitutional right to observe the deliberations of their government. Montanans need to know whether the Governor’s Office knowingly signed off on unconstitutional legislation or otherwise played a role in creating and passing unsound and unlawful policies to the detriment of Montanans’ freedoms.” Indeed, the State of Montana is facing unprecedented legal challenges following the 2021 legislative session in which, for the first time in 16 years, a single party controlled both legislative and executive branches. Many of these legal challenges are based on the view that legislators and the Governor abdicated their constitutional responsibilities by knowingly passing unconstitutional laws.

Pop-up testing offered near COVID ‘hot spots’ News from CSKT Tribal Health

To accommodate an increase in demand for testing Tribal Health is offering pop-up testing near COVID “hot spots.” A mobile unit and a team of nurses is deployed to test at these locations. Most recently pop-up testing has been done in Arlee and Polson at the Linderman gym with great success. Any community member can test at these events. Testing is also done M-F at the SKC location for Tribal Health eligible patients. Though Tribal Health hasn’t seen an increase in demand for initial COVID vaccinations, many people are anxiously waiting

for their booster. According to CSKT Community Health Division Director Chelsea Kleinmeyer, “We are focusing on 65 and older and 50-64 with underlying medical conditions. We will also offer to frontline healthcare workers and teachers who reside on the reservation. We will continue to vaccinate tribal and non-tribal residents.” Booster shots are now available for the above-mentioned individuals at the Arlee Community Center and the KwaTaqNuk by appointment or walk-in. To streamline the process and avoid wait times, appointments are preferred. Appointments can be scheduled at MTreadyclinic.org or by calling Valley Journal

Tribal Health at 745-3525. Someone should get a test if they are exhibiting any of the COVID symptoms. Data is showing symptoms with Delta are the same as other strains of the novel coronavirus: fever and chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea. If a person has been exposed, Tribal Health recommends getting tested 3-5 days after exposure. Local hospitals and healthcare facilities have also ramped up their testing capacity with reinstatement of drive-through test sites. October 6, 2021 - 9

valley views A fair economic recovery is possible, affordable Time for billionaires and corporations to chip in

n Washington, Congress is debating how to help families get back on their feet after a challenging 18 months. However, with so many Montanans still struggling, we cannot afford to return to the way things were. We need to move forward to something better. While businesses are grappling with the fallout of the global health pandemic and economic downturn, many families know that this crisis has merely laid bare the barriers they have long faced. Rising housing costs and the pressure of balancing caring for family – both young and old – have made it nearly impossible to earn enough to make ends meet. Investments in child care, affordable housing, and home- and community-based ser-

vices will help people return to work and build a future for their families. They will also foster the workforce that businesses need to get back up and running. Congress has the opportunity right now to fund these and many other critical investments by ensuring the wealthiest Americans pay their fair share in taxes. Currently, our federal tax system is riddled with loopholes that benefit the wealthiest households and corporations at the expense of investments in the rest of us. Lopsided tax cuts enacted in 2017 made the tax code even more unfair, showering the wealthiest with additional, excessive perks. In 2020, the richest 20 percent of Americans received nearly three-

fourths of the tax cuts, costing our country $205 billion. Congress’s plan would make sure the richest 1 percent are paying their fair share. Making matters worse, the top 1 percent of earners avoid $163 billion in

Valley View

Rose Bender Director of Research, Sr. Policy Analyst MT Budget & Policy

taxes every year. A recent investigation exposed how the country’s wealthiest individuals pay far less than they’re supposed to in federal income taxes. Simply improving tax collections of taxes already due and avoided, mainly by the wealthiest, would add $1.6 trillion in revenue over the next decade. It is long past time to make a change. Congress should do what’s neces-

sary to ensure billionaires can’t use loopholes and other tactics to avoid paying income taxes on their fortunes. Congress’s plan would make sure people like Jeff Bezos are paying their fair share. The proposed individual income tax changes would require the richest 1 percent to pay for 97 percent of the tax increase, which will start to address inequities in America’s tax system. And when paired with increases in the child tax credit and the earned income tax credit, these improvements will help families with the lowest incomes – who are often left out of tax reform. What’s more, a recent study by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy found that at least 55 of the nation’s largest companies paid no federal corporate income taxes in 2020. The current plan being discussed by Congress calls for increasing

the corporate income tax rate for companies with over $5 million in annual profits and lowering the rate for small corporations with income below $400,000. The proposal also helps level the playing field so small businesses can compete by limiting the amount of taxes avoided by multinational corporations that shift income overseas. Corporations and the wealthiest have been getting a special deal for too long. Congress should reduce our tax code’s inequities. Most importantly, it should make the investments needed to ensure everyone is included in our economic recovery. Congress has a historic opportunity to close offshore tax haven loopholes, make billionaires pay their fair share, and go after tax cheats. And with new investments in child care, education, and housing, we can make sure all Montanans can thrive.

Raising corporate tax rate ultimately harms laborers T his month, U.S. Senators began the markup of Democrats’ $3.5 trillion budget resolution package. This rubber-meets-road moment seems to have given pause to some in

Legislative Notes

10 - October 6, 2021

their party whose votes will be needed to get a bill through Congress and across the President’s desk. Among them is Montana’s Senator Jon Tester. Sen. Greg Hertz, The President (R), SD 6 and the progressive

left members of Congress have proposed financing the Administration’s marquee spending bill largely by raising the U.S. corporate tax rate. It is a moral imperative, they say, to make big business “pay its fair share.” In April, a notably fiery President Biden re-upped his call to raise the federal rate by a third, statValley Journal

ing, “I’m sick and tired of ordinary people being fleeced.” Yet ordinary people are exactly who will pay for this tax increase. A fundamental problem with the President’s argument is that corporate taxes ultimately get passed on to workers and their see page 11

Rose Bender is Deputy Director of Research and a Senior Fiscal Policy Analyst with the Montana Budget & Policy Center - a nonprofit organization focused on research and advancement of public policies that help families living on low incomes.

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

Raising corporate tax from page 10

families, which make up the core of our economy. Research by the Tax Foundation finds that 70 percent or more of corporate taxes fall on laborers through reduced wages, fewer jobs and career advancement opportunities, less investment in productivity drivers like equipment and technology, and increase incentives to shift profits and move headquarters out of the United States. In other words, the President’s desire to raise taxes on businesses effectively amounts to a tax increase on workers along with consumers of their goods. And, as the Tax Foundation analysis notes, low-income earners suffer worse impacts than others higher up the ladder. Of course, when families earn less, they spend less, creating a ripple effect up and down our economy. Less than four years ago Congress voted to reduce the federal corporate tax rate, which was then the highest among member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Lowering the tax rate opened the gates to significant investment and growth, here in Montana and across the country. Between 2018 and 2020, some $1.6 trillion of investment in jobs, manufacturing, and workers poured into the United States. Capital investments outpaced averages over the prior two decades. No major businesses have relocated overseas since the corporate rate was lowered. The lower tax rate wasn’t some handout to corporate America. It was a realignment to put U.S. businesses on more level footing with competitors around the world, creating more jobs and opportunity for Americans. President Biden’s tax and spend agenda is putting all of that at risk. Now more than ever, we need some Democrats in Congress to stand up for American businesses, workers, and our economy. The nation’s eyes will be on Senator Tester and others. I encourage our Democrat Senator to buck factions within his party and vote to keep the corporate tax rate competitive and reasonable for the benefit of our country and Montana.

The hole truth about Swiss cheese C

heese – sometimes soft and mental cheese is the bacteria that creamy, sometimes hard and is used in culturing milk. There are brittle, but no matter the form, always three key strains that are vital to the delicious. Growing up in Montana, I process: Streptococcus thermophwas well accustomed to all the clasilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, and sics: Cheddar, Colby Jack, Propionibacterium Provolone, Mozzarella, and freudenreichii. These Swiss. When I relocated bacteria create carto Switzerland, I had the bon dioxide which doors flung wide open forms into bubbles as to a whole new world of the cheese cures leavcheeses. Dairy products ing behind the iconic have been a deeply em“eyes.” ben there bedded aspect of Swiss Emmental cheese culture for millennia. became quite popular DONE that Every little town, region, in Switzerland and Ben Stone or village seems to have across Europe for its Media Production, Valley Journal its own special variety of desirable and unique cheese its people are imnutty flavor. Then in mensely proud of. Oftentimes, these 1845, a group of Swiss immigrants cheeses share the same name as the settled in Green County, Wisconsin. geographical location of their oriWith them came the knowledge of gin. There is no overarching “Swiss” making cheese and a desire to procheese, just hundreds of distinct reduce new kinds of cheese based on gional varieties that differ immensely. old Swiss methods. The hole-filled Unlike Swiss cheese in the US, the Emmental-style cheese was intromajority of cheeses don’t have holes. duced to Americans. While not an So, this made me question: Where exact copy of the original, it was very did the Swiss cheese in the US origsimilar. In typical American style, inate? Is it some faux traditional recthe cheese was quickly coined “Swiss ipe with a fancy name to encourage cheese” and the name has stuck better sales? Was it a recipe brought ever since. As of 2013, Americans over long ago, now evolved into consume about one pound of Swiss something completely divorced from cheese per person per year, placing it the original? Well, sort of. easily among the most popular variThe Swiss cheese we know and eties. love in North America is based on While both the original Emmental a traditional recipe from a small but and successive American Swiss cheesprolific dairy-producing region around the Swiss village of Emmental. Classified as a firmer “Alpine-style” cheese, Emmental cheese commonly features “eyes,” the technical term for the distinctive holes that are so iconic. “Blind” sub-varieties also exist that do not feature the holes. The first record of this kind of cheese being made in Emmental, the name “Emmental” was not commonly used until 1542. The secret ingredient of EmValley Journal

es are similar in numerous ways, there are also some key differences. These divergences were first on account of differences in available materials and later evolved separately to match consumer tastes in the different markets. Today, the American Swiss is a bit softer with a distinctly mild flavor while the original Swiss Emmental has more vibrant yellow coloring and robust flavor. Both are quite tasty in my personal opinion, however, I must say, I favor the original. The tale of how American Swiss cheese came to be, is a prime example of cultural exchange. This happens all over the world, when a group of people from one country bring aspects of their culture to new places. Over time, the bits of transplanted culture take root and begin to evolve into something new – no longer wholly true to its origin but not entirely divorced from it either. Because the modern United States of America is a nation consisting primarily of immigrants, we have many hidden gems of our culture we owe to this process. As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, countless cultural exchanges are happening. Although this may be perceived as threatening, I contend the benefits outweigh the losses. Just imagine life without apple pie, hot dogs, barbeque, cowboys, fireworks, Santa Claus, or even doughnuts; all of which came to us via cultural exchange.

October 6, 2021 - 11

letters

Nothing new under the sun

Editor, So sez the wisest man they say who ever lived. He continued, “The wind blows to the South and turns back to the North; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course. All streams flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full. To the place the streams come from. There they return again.” Perhaps the climate changers could explain the dinosaurs bones over east? According to scientists it was once a swamp, man the climate sure changed over there. And there was no drill’n rigs or model Ts or 737s. Like the tower of Babel, those billionaires are flopping around up there. To each their own, I guess. According to the magazine Scientific American, our Milky Way alone contains over one trillion planets and that’s just one galaxy in a universe of at least 100 billion.

Lake Trout Fishing Event/Contest on Flathead Lake If that doesn’t make man feel insufficient I don’t know what will. The climate has always changed. When the climate changes the One who created it will have the final say. Instead of pouring money down that Paris Climate Accord rat hole, the money would be better spent helping those dear folks who are flooded out and burned out and lost everything. Perhaps Solomon said it best thinking about man’s efforts. “Meaningless, meaningless a chasing after the wind.” Dale Terrillion Proctor

Voting is a marvelous right Editor, “We the People,” in our democracy have a wonderful power. We need not be swayed by the loud, raucous and relentless voices of discord and political pandering to which we are exposed. “We the People,” over

the years, have demonstrated our power in this democracy. The next midterm elections will be yet another opportunity to use our wonderful power in this nation. As voters, “We the People” are not running for office and having to protect our “back-sides.” We don’t have that pressure. In the quiet of our own minds, with a ballot before us, we can make calm and private choices. Yes, “We the People” will speak in the midterms and shall speak again in the general election in November 2024. All the political palaver need not influence our private and powerful decision-making vote. I write all this as one who is still attempting to quiet my mind from all the chaos that surrounds our lives. And expressing about “We the People” in this way helps me. Freedom of speech and voting are marvelous rights we have. Bob McClellan Missoula

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U.S. SENATE — U.S. Senator Steve Daines recently announced that $239,140 will be granted to the Montana Department of Corrections to support substance abuse treatment and student loan repayment programs. “I’m glad to see Montana receive these resources to support our justice system through important initiatives like substance abuse treatment for inmates and student loan repayment programs 12 - October 6, 2021

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for public defenders and prosecutors,” Daines said. The $239,140 will be distributed to the following programs: — $206,764 to the Montana 2021 Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for State Prisoners Program — $32,376 to the Montana 2021 John R. Justice Student Loan Repayment Program Daines helped secure this funding through the U.S. Department Justice in December 2020.

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sports

Polson, Mission cross-country post strong results at fairgrounds By Rob Zolman Valley Journal

POLSON – The Polson and Mission high school varsity cross-country teams both scored top-ten boy’s and girl’s finishes during the Mission Shadow Duals hosted by Polson High School at the Polson Fairgrounds on Saturday. On the boy’s side, Ryan Dupuis led the way with a fourth-place individual finish with a time of 17:40 helping the Polson Pirates to a second-place team finish. Drifter Skil-

licorn was the Pirates’ second runner, coming in seventh place with a time of 17:59. Robbie Nuila led a pack of Mission Bulldog runners with a ninthplace finish time of 18:06 followed by Zoran LaFrombois in tenth and Thomas Nuila in eleventh. Elijah Tonasket was the Ronan Chiefs’ top finisher with a 39th place time of 20:02, while Malacye Piapot finished tops for the Two Eagle River Eagles with a time of 21:32 followed by Ar-

lee Warrior Drew Knoll with a time of 21:35 and Charlo Viking Hayden Smith with a time of 21:44. On the girl’s side, the Polson Lady Pirates totaled 116 points to place fourth overall in the team standings. Lady Pirate Ashtyn Wagner placed fifth with a time of 20:44 followed by teammate Halle Heninger in 13th with a time of 21:38. Ronan Maiden Olivia Heiner narrowly finished out of the girl’s top ten with an 11th place finish

time of 21:17. Lady Viking Guinevere Contreras was Charlo’s top runner, placing 30th with a time of 24:09. Top runners for the Arlee Scarlets were Kaity Lynn Ellison (27:40) and Saisha Northpiegan (28:24) placing 52nd and 54th. Janelle Afterbuffalo led the Two Eagle River Lady Eagles with a time of 28:39 and a 56th place finish.

Local runners battle their way to the finish line.

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Thank you for a GREAT season! The golf course will stay open as long as weather permits.

Remember to book your holiday party early!

676-4653

Cantina Grill

Join us Fridays and Saturdays for lunch and our Supper Club dinners through the fall and winter. CHRISTA UMPHREY PHOTO

Mission Bulldog Robbie Nuila and Polson Pirate Ryan Dupuis race to the finish line.

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Located 3 miles west of Ronan on Round Butte Road 46664 Golf Course Way • 676-GOLF (4653)

October 6, 2021 - 13

Local golfers finish season strong Story and photos by Rob Zolman / Valley Journal

POLSON — The Polson Pirates’ golf team placed third and the Lady Pirates finished fourth at this past week’s State A golf tournament, hosted by Polson High School at the Polson Bay Golf Course. The Pirates (306-311) posted a two-round total of 617, while the Lady Pirates (388-396) carded a 784. For the Pirates, Carson Hupka earned a state top-10 finish and AllState honors, placing sixth overall with a total score of a 6-over-par 150. Hupka recorded a 3-over-par 75 in Friday’s opening round and finished day two with an identical score. Also earning All-State accolades for the Pirates, Christian Lund (75-80) tied for tenth place with a 155 followed by both Hunter Emerson and Torrin Ellis who tied for 13th, carding a score of 156. Espn Fisher (85-86) finished tied for 30th with a card score of 171. For the Ronan Chiefs, Dillon Pretty On Top (89-93), Ruben Couture (92-90) and Nash Niemeyer (92-90) all shot a 182 tying for 43rd place. On the girls’ side of the leader board, Lady Pirate Ashley Maki claimed an All-State nod and a sixth-place finish shoot14 - October 6, 2021

ing back-to-back 83s for a two-day total of 166. Rounding out the score card for the Polson girls, Kila Cannon (102-96) placed 24th shooting a 198, Clare Konen (107102 —209) placed 35th and Kylee Seifert (96-

115 — 211) tied for 38th. The Ronan Maidens placed two golfers in the top 25. Alyssa Pretty On Top (92-97) shot a 189 for 18th place and Kylee Niemeyer (102-95) tied for 22nd with a card score of 197.

A BIG THANK YOU to all who helped make the 15th Annual CASA Golf Scramble a great success!

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sports shorts Volleyball

Polson Lady Pirates

In a Northwestern A conference road game on Tuesday, Sept. 28, the Polson Lady Pirates picked up a three-set (25-11, 25-12, 25-16) win over the Columbia Falls Wildkats. Liz Tolley led the Lady Pirates with nine assists and 16 digs, while McKenna Hanson posted seven digs and eight assists.

Arlee Scarlets

On Tuesday, Sept. 28, the Arlee Scarlets fell in three straight sets (2515, 25-13, 25-18) to the hosting Florence-Carlton Lady Falcons.

Ronan Maidens

It took the visiting Ronan Maidens four sets (25-21, 25-19, 25-27, 2512) to topple the Libby Lady Loggers on Thursday evening. On Saturday, the Maidens swept the visiting Browning Lady Indians in straight sets (25-8, 25-16, 25-20.) Leina Ulutoa led the Maidens with three aces, 17 assists and six digs, while Olivia Clairmont chipped in with 12 kills.

Mission Bulldogs

The visiting Missoula Loyola Breakers swept the Mission Lady Bulldogs in three sets (25-7, 25-19, 25-20) on Tuesday, Sept. 28. Izabel Evans led the Lady Bulldogs with five

kills and 13 digs, while Maysa Couture posted 14 digs. On Thursday, the Lady Bulldogs won a 3-1 (2518, 26-24, 15-25, 25-23) home victory over the Plains Trotters. Evans posted 18 digs and six kills, Kooper Page booked 18 assists and Kason Page posted 16 digs.

Cross Country

Mission Bulldogs and Lady Bulldogs

The Mission Bulldogs cross-country team finished first as a team at the Hatchery Run hosted by Arlee High School on Tuesday, Sept. 28. Robbie Nuila led the way for the Bulldogs, finishing second with a time of 18:18.40 followed by Thomas Nuila with a time of 18:18.51 in third and Zoran LaFrombois in fourth with a time of 18:19.35. The Lady Bulldogs placed second in the team standings with Cedar Hunt leading the way with a third-place time of 23:15.53. Kooper Page ran a tenth-place time of 26:00.83.

Polson Pirates and Lady Pirates

Competing during the Whitefish Cross Country Invitational held at the Whitefish Lake see page 23

ROB ZOLMAN / VALLEY JOURNAL

The Charlo Lady Vikings use teamwork to get the ball over the net.

BOB GUNDERSON PHOTO

Polson Pirate wide receiver Colton Graham snags a pass over Wildcat defenders.

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Pirates shut out Wildcats as Polson celebrates homecoming Story and photos by Rob Zolman / Valley Journal

POLSON — The City of Polson was drenched in the colors of purple and gold on Friday afternoon as Polson High School celebrated the fall tradition of homecoming with the traditional homecoming parade down Main Street. During the mid-afternoon parade, students threw candy and waved at the crowds as they rode past on fire trucks and flatbed floats decorated to this year’s theme

16 - October 6, 2021

“Cage the Cats.” The Polson Pirates and Lady Pirates kicked off the homecoming sports week on Tuesday with a soccer match against the visiting Bigfork Vikings and Valkyries. The Vikings prevailed over the Pirates 2-1 while the Lady Pirates and Valkyries battled to a 2-2 stalemate. Under the lights Friday night, the Pirates moved to 5-0 on the season as they defeated the previously unbeaten Columbia Falls Wildcats 37-0 in Northwestern A football

action. Pirate quarterback Jarrett Wilson completed 28 of 47 passes for 250 yards and threw four touchdowns. Wilson also rushed 123 yards on 14 carries. Wide receiver Xavier Fisher booked two touchdowns, while Alex Muzquiz and Dawson Dumont each hauled in a touchdown apiece. Also for the Pirates, Keyan Nash scored a rushing touchdown and Colton Graham had 110 yards receiving on nine catches.

During halftime festivities Elizabeth Tolley was named 2021 homecoming queen, while Robert Perez was named homecoming king. Rounding out the rest of the Polson homecoming court were Turquoise Pierre, Xavier Fisher, Maisie Murphy, Colton Graham, Joseph Martinez and Hallie Henninger. Wrapping up the sports week on Saturday, the Polson Pirates’ golf team placed third and the Lady Pirates finished fourth during the State A

Valley Journal

golf tournament, hosted at the Polson Bay Golf Course. For the Pirates, Carson Hupka earned a state top-10 finish and All-State honors, placing sixth overall with a two-day total score of a 6-over-par 150. Lady Pirate Ashley Maki claimed an All-State nod and a sixth-place finish shooting back-to-back 83s for a total of 166. The Pirates cross country team placed second and the Lady Pirates finished fourth during the Mission Shadow Duels hosted at

the Polson Fairgrounds. Pirate Ryan Dupuis led the way for the boys with a fourth-place individual finish with a time of 17:40, while Ashtyn Wagner paced the Lady Pirates with a time of 20:44 for fifth place. At Linderman gym, homecoming queen Tolley had 13 digs and three blocks helping the Lady Pirates to a three set 2521, 25-20, 25-12 win over the visiting Libby Lady Loggers. McKenna Hanson led the Lady Pirates with 15 assists, 10 digs and 11 kills.

PUZZLES LOS ANGELES TIMES SUNDAY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

“Preparing For Takeoff” By Mark McClain

ACROSS 1 6 10 15 19 20 21 22 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 32 33 35 38 39 40 41 43 47 52 53 54 55 56 58 60 62 63 68 71

Brownie group? Francis, most recently Scornful comment Self-righteously proper sort Fancy to extremes Caspian Sea feeder Come after Single *Attraction with exotic animals It may be skipped SLR setting Self-absorbed Works in a museum Oops provoker Got rid of Knob-handled tools *Former NASA project Range option Massage therapist’s employer Dismiss casually, with “at” Piece of land Release predecessors Embellished *Jump-start connection point Word on an Irish euro Basics Tickle pink Silent __: White House nickname Pet store rodent “Grey’s Anatomy” showrunner Rhimes Flier in a show Bishop’s purview *IT executive’s concern Go downhill fast Obsolescent wrong

72 75 77 78 81 83 84 87 90 91 92 95 96 97 101 103 104 105 106 110 111 113 115 116 117 118 119 120 121 122

number cause Omelet request Move stealthily It may need massaging Brown shade “Sunday Night Baseball” nickname Jazz home *Berlin monument that’s a symbol of Germany’s reunification Sleeping bag alternative Wonderland cake instruction CafŽ lightener Contemptible Trauma ctrs. Causes of much yawning *Something to go back to when things aren’t working out Moved like the wind Potato color Crop unit Fireplace duct Forget where one put Golden rule word Bert’s chum *Brew pub sampler Wise adviser Its code is BOS Murray with a star on both the Canada and Hollywood Walk of Fame Judge who excelled in the Field of Dreams game Notice Avocet cousin Puts in Climate activist Thunberg

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 29 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 40 41 42 44 45 46 48 49 50 51

String section instrument Fall figure Vegan protein source Rocky projection HRH part Eye opening Rigorous exams Scorecard standards Moose cousin Model 3 maker Marxian activities Arthur Ashe Stadium is its main court Sister Achieved a baby milestone Classic wall worker Awaken harshly Mole’s collection Crystal-bearing rock Hoover was the only president born there Twitch, say Taverna aperitif Meridian opening Trunk item Aquatic carnivore Iraqis, mostly 12-Down contest Doesn’t ignore Editor’s “keep it” Sched. uncertainty Club rules GPS projection Avian bills Pennsylvania county or its seat Editor’s “cut it” “Power” accessory, perhaps Cold treat brand Dealer’s pursuer First Dominican MLB manager Felipe

QUICKSILVER EXPRESSO TAKE A BREAK!

51999 US 93 • PABLO 18 - October 6, 2021

56 57 59 60 61 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 73 74 76 78 79 80 82 84 85 86 88 89 93 94 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 105 106 107 108 109 112 113 114

Somersaulting dive Kitchen suffix Dory’s friend Gestural comm. syst. Sturdy shoe River through Frankfurt Capital of Latvia Particle also called a K meson Sound barrier breaker Chuck E-ticket’s lack __-Eating Tree: “Peanuts” phenomenon 2010 Apple debut Common prayer Invaders of ancient Rome Discards Trimming target Thyroid MDs “Big Blue” Actor Billy __ Williams Poster’s medium Company with an antlered animal logo Pleasant feeling Pooch with a large tongue Horizontal door beams Congo tributary __ media Major Nebraska product Puts under Accumulate Houston MLBer Ain’t perfect? Barista’s creation Entices Ward (off) Wearer of hot pants? Fairy tale monster Useless, now Sicilian mount Hogwash Shearing day sound Jet __

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis

CRYPTO-QUOTE

One letter stands in for another. Single letters, apostrophes, word length and formation of the words are all hints. Each week the key is different.

OLPZLXNEO’P ZAL UEPZ ZJCJXXJY’P ZAL DTZTXL VTZ ZJNEO FP E GFDZ. ZAEZ’P YAO FZ’P QEBBLN ZAL UXLPLKZ. - VFB RLEKL Ben Stone / Valley Journal

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ge ct sele bevera &

Warriors topple Trojans for homecoming victory Story by Rob Zolman photos by Summer Goddard Valley Journal

ARLEE — The Arlee Warriors rolled to a big homecoming win and their first of the season on Saturday by defeating the Troy Trojans 56-34. Warrior quarterback Kendall O’Neill threw a touchdown pass to Jake Knoll and rushed for three touchdowns. Warrior running back Jace Arca also rushed for three touchdowns with

the longest being a first quarter 20 yarder for the Warrior’s first points and lead of the game. During half time ceremonies the 2021 Arlee High School Homecoming court of Michael Shourds, Ryann Shourds, Tyrel Thomas, McKirah Fisher, Levi Fullerton, Noel Johnson, Joe Parisian and Nikki Ironshell were paraded by tractors, classic truck and horse drawn buggy to the front of the grandstands. Tyrel Thomas was

crowned 2021 Homecoming king and Ryann Shourds was crowned Homecoming queen. Also seeing homecoming action on Saturday, the Scarlets volleyball squad battled the Deer Lodge Lady Wardens to a 3-2 (25-22, 25-23, 1025, 18-25, 12-15) conference loss. After the Scarlets jumped out to an early 2-0 set lead, the Lady Wardens took the final three sets for the match win.

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The Heart of Healthcare in the Mission Valley

October 6, 2021 - 17

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

By: Magi Helena for the Week of October 3, 2021 ARIES (March 21-April 19): It takes two to start an argument. Play some outdoor sports or games where competitiveness can be expressed without being abrasive. The week ahead may cause you to face some pushback. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Some people may admire your engaging and independent spirit. More serious souls who are being tested by personal challenges might resist changes. Avoid breaking any of the rules as the week unfolds. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You deserve some euphoric moments. A mental breakthrough during the week ahead may illuminate a clear path ahead. You may suddenly understand the mechanisms behind something essential to your well-being.

SUDOKU

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Take pride in what you possess but don’t allow it to get in the way of accepting responsibility for what you have. Once committed to a course of action it may be difficult to escape from obligations in the week ahead.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In the upcoming week, you might be intent on winning but you must remember to remain fair and considerate. Listening to a word from someone wise can make your wallet fatter. Avoid forming new romantic and business alliances at this time. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Quick thinking and an eye for detail can give you the advantage in your occupation. You might not get what you want but you should get what you need in the week to come. Any peacemaking attempts may create awkwardness. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Even when you are left in the dark, you know how to find the light switch. In the week ahead, you might be forced to blindly feel your way through. Handle minor misunderstandings with care so they do not turn into problems. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Use common sense and logic to keep your spirits up if you experience insecurities. This isn’t a good week to go against the crowd, challenge public opinion or gamble with your stockpile of resources.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): What you say could be more important than what you do. If someone close seems doubtful, be reassuring and say calming things. In the week ahead, casual flirtations shouldn’t be taken seriously. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Don’t turn away from compliments. It’s not bragging if it’s true. Errors and breakdowns that come to your attention now indicate that the week ahead might be a time to consider a new way of handling your affairs. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Those who know you well will likely trust your judgment, but others may be cautious or skeptical. This week consider a revision of your spending habits. Discuss your options with trustworthy advisers. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): If you anticipate financial problems, you might still be surprised when something unexpected occurs. In the week to come, you might be too carefree and lose traction unless you come up with alternative solutions.

COMICS

Valley Journal

Answers in Classifieds October 6, 2021 - 19

seniors St. Ignatius By Irene Pritsak for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — Thank you to all who donated and volunteered at the yard and bake sale on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 1 and 2. It was well attended, and we had lots of folks stay for lunch. It was a wonderful community gathering. The Lake County Health department will give out flu shots on Oct. 6, right before our Wednesday night dinner. If you would like to get your shot, please be here between 4 and 5:30 p.m. and bring your insurance card and please stay for dinner afterward. On Friday, Oct. 22, Mary B. from Council on Aging will be here to talk about Medicare open enrollment during our lunch hour. There is also a sign-up sheet for folks wanting a oneon-one appointment comparing Medicare plans. This can be done in person or by phone on Nov. 19. Menu for the week: Wednesday, Oct, 6: dinner - Octoberfest – cider, pork roast, applesauce, salad, rolls, dessert Friday, Oct. 8: chicken dinner, mashed potatoes, rolls, veggies, fruit and dessert Tuesday, Oct. 12: 20 - October 6, 2021

Rainbow’s end

meatloaf, potato wedges, salad, fruit, dessert Have a great week.

Polson By Kay Stam for the Valley Journal

POLSON — The Polson Senior Center and Safeway Pharmacy are offering a Flu Shot Clinic at the center, 504 Third Ave. E., on Tuesday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to noon. Pneumonia shots are also available. We are seeking a kitchen assistant. Come to the center for an application or call 406-883-4735. You can help the elderly in our community by volunteering to drive people to and from medical appointments and/or delivering meals to shut-ins. Activities for the week include: exercise class - 10:30-11:30 a.m. Mondays; bridge played - 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays; mahjong played - 12:30 p.m. Wednesdays; pinochle played - 12:30 p.m. Thursdays - bingo played 7 p.m. Fridays. The center is available for a variety of social and educational endeavors. Small groups are welcome. If you would like to start a class or club please contact the center. Meals: — Wednesday, Oct.

6: pork chops, cubed potatoes, peas, Watergate salad, fruit crisp — Thursday, Oct. 7: lemon chicken, rice, green beans, aspic salad, molasses cookie — Friday, Oct. 8: barbecue beef sandwich, pasta salad, stir fried veggies, coleslaw, cherry cobbler — Monday, Oct 11: beef stew, roll, fruit, apple-raisin crisp — Tuesday, Oct. 12: taco with fixings, Spanish rice, refried beans, creamy peach salad — Wednesday, Oct. 13: Chicken a la King, biscuit, peas, green salad, angel food cake

Dixon By Heather Rush for the Valley Journal

DIXON — The Dixon Senior Center continues to serve our community and hopes everyone is staying happy and healthy. All are invited to come enjoy dinner, breakfast, and/ or play pinochle. Meals will be served Monday and Thursday evenings at 5 p.m. Meals are $4 per serving and are deliverable to Dixon residents upon request. We are also accepting takeout meal requests for $5 per serving. The menu is: — Monday, Oct. 11: dinner - chicken fried steak, veggies,

rolls, salad, dessert — Thursday, Oct. 14: dinner - lasagna, salad, fruit, rolls, dessert — Saturday, Oct. 16: breakfast 9-11 a.m. We are hosting breakfast on the third Saturday of every month from 9-11 a.m. The next breakfast will be served on Oct. 16. Bring the family and enjoy a meal with friends and neighbors. Pinochle is being played on the fourth Monday of every month from 7-9 p.m. The next game is scheduled for Monday, Oct. 25.

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

A rainbow on a recent autumn evening appears to end in the Mission Mountains.

Please join us in a celebration of life for

Greg Harding October 9th 5 p.m.

Valley Journal

The outdoor service will be located at 33495 Spring Creek Rd, Ronan The family is asking attendants to bring a chair and wear Griz or Seahawks gear (or any sports apparel). Dinner will be served after the service.

Arlee educator named 2022 Montana Teacher of the Year News from the Montana Office of Public Instruction

ARLEE — State Superintendent Elsie Arntzen joined Arlee School District students, teachers, and administrators this morning to announce that Bill Stockton has been selected as the 2022 Montana Teacher of the Year. Stockton, a high school science teacher in Arlee, will go on to represent Montana in the National Teacher of the Year competition. “I am proud to announce Arlee high school science teacher Bill Stockton is the 2022 Montana Teacher of the Year,” Superintendent Elsie Arntzen said Tuesday. “Bill exemplifies the kind of teacher all educators aspire to be. He has not only ignited a passion for science in his students, but he has also extended that same enthusiasm to all of the student teachers he has mentored. It’s easy to see why Bill was unanimously selected to represent Montana; I wish him all the best at the National Teacher of the Year competition.” Mr. Stockton rose to the top of the field after a rigorous and competitive selection process. The selection committee met last week to conduct virtual interviews of the four finalists: Bill Stockton of Arlee; Steffani Grogan of Forsyth;

Christina Pavlovich of Livingston; and Brianna Saltenberger of Anaconda. The selection committee was made up of representatives from the Office of Public Instruction, the Governor’s Office, the Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs, Education Advocates, the Montana business community, the Montana Legislature, and the current Montana Teacher of the Year. “I’m very honored to be recognized as the 2022 teacher of the year. There have been many great teachers that have impacted my life and I owe this award to them,” Stockton said. “I’m really honored to represent Arlee and the Flathead Reservation. I’m looking forward to continuing to help promote Indian Education for All across the state and other states. Now more than ever, I think it’s important that we promote multi-cultural education. All students needs to see themselves in the curriculum… their voices need to be heard.” Arlee Schools Superintendent Mike Perry wholeheartedly agrees with Stockton’s selection. “I have known Mr. Stockton for seven years now in various roles,” Perry said. “Bill is so deserving of this recognition, as he stands as an example to staff and students in the role of an effective teacher.

Mr. Stockton is always striving to increase his own learning so that he may change his teaching methods in order to meet the needs of the students in his classroom. He is also supportive of the students in their endeavors outside of the classroom, which allows him to have sincere and vital relationships which increases the learning that takes place in his classroom. The students in Mr. Stockton’s classes know that he has high expectations, holds them to high standards, and cares for each of them as individuals. We at Arlee Schools are so proud and grateful that Mr. Stockton chooses to practice his talents here in our district.” Senator Steve Daines also congratulated Stockton on his selection. “A big congratulations to Arlee High School science teacher Mr. Bill Stockton on being named the 2022 Montana Teacher of the Year. Bill’s enthusiasm and passion for teaching has no doubt inspired countless young Montanans. Bill, thank you. Thank you for being a great example for all Montana teachers,” Daines said. For more information about the Montana Teacher of the Year Program, visit: http:// opi.mt.gov/Educators/ Teaching-Learning/ Montana-Teacher-ofthe-Year.

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Arlee High School science teacher Bill Stockton poses for a photo after being honored as Montana Teacher of the Year. Pictured from left are: Arlee School Superintendent Mike Perry, Bill Stockton, Montana State Superintendent Elsie Arntzen and (front) Bill’s daughters Norah and Brooklyn Stockton.

Valley Journal

October 6, 2021 - 21

Drone photo of 2021 Flathead River rodeo

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Flathead River Rodeo named INFR 2021 Tour Rodeo of the Year By Una Rose Graham, Polson Fairgrounds Inc.

Congratulations to the fantastic and hard-working team that has once again blessed the Flathead Reservation and Polson, Montana with another “INFR Tour Rodeo of the Year.” This is a great accomplishment, as they are competing with 16 other Indian National Finals RodeoTour Rodeos held throughout the US and Canada. A big thank you to these folks for their months of hard work organizing and producing this event: Sheila Matt, Pete White, Elmo McDonald, Bryon Miller, S&K Gaming, The Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes & Council, the KwaTaqNuk Resort, Polson Fairgrounds Inc., plus generous support from local sponsors and volunteers, who donate money and time to make this event happen. After a 3-year hiatus, this rodeo came back with a bang, once again proving that the contestants love coming here to compete and enjoy what the Flathead Reservation and the Mission Valley has to offer. 22- October 6, 2021

The 3-day rodeo held at the Polson Fairgrounds from Aug. 26-28 brought in 510 contestants and their families. They began arriving Aug. 23, with some staying until Aug. 31. These contestants came here from 18 states, including Florida, Wisconsin, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Texas, Colorado, Arizona, California, Washington, North and South Dakota and 2 Canadian Provinces. The entire 40 acres of the Polson Fairgrounds facility was packed with their horse trailers, motor homes, campers and tents. In addition, the average attendance for each performance was approximately 1,500 rodeo fans. Local vendors provided a variety of foods to enjoy and items for sale. What a great boost for our local businesses and economy as the busy summer was winding down, with this fun and family-friendly event. It is truly an event to be proud of. The Tour Rodeo of the Year Award will be given at the upcoming INFR Finals held on Oct. 19-23 at the South Point Arena in Las Vegas. Valley Journal

sports shorts from page 15

Golf Course on Tuesday, Sept. 28, the Polson Lady Pirates finished fifth and Pirates placed sixth in the team standings. Pirate junior Drifter Skillicorn finished 11th with a time of 17:53.13 followed by teammate Ryan Dupuis with a time of 17:54.88 in 12th place. Lady Pirate Ashtyn Wagner raced to a seventh-place finish with a time of 20:50.80 and Halle Heninger placed 12th with a time of 21:35.84.

Charlo Vikings and Lady Vikings

19:47.13 followed by Brandt Heninger (43rd) with a time of 19:48.00.

Arlee Warriors and Scarlets

The Arlee Scarlets won first place in the girls’ team point standings on Tuesday, Sept. 28, during their own hosted Hatchery Run. Saisha Northpiegan was the top Scarlet runner placing eighth with a time of 25:10.33, while Princess Bolen placed 12th followed by Cheyenne Pablo in 14th and McKirah Fisher finishing in 15th. Drew Knoll finished 20th with a time of 21:27.42 to pace the

Warriors.

Two Eagle River Eagles and Lady Eagles

Running in the Hatchery Run hosted by Arlee High School on Tuesday, Sept. 28, Malacye Piapot (26th) led the Two Eagle River Eagles with a time of 21:59.66 and Janelle Afterbuffalo (20th) paced the Lady Eagles with a time of 29:11.89.

Football

Ronan Chiefs

The Ronan Chiefs fell 48-12 Friday night to the hosting undefeated Whitefish Bulldogs. Tristan Fisher scored

both touchdowns for the Chiefs, one on a fouryard run the other a short pass from Colter Cornwall.

Mission Bulldogs

On the road Friday night, the Mission Bulldogs picked up their third win of the season with a 68-14 victory over the Seeley Swan Blackhawks.

Charlo Vikings

The Charlo Vikings routed the hosting Plains Horsemen 74-0 on Saturday afternoon. The win moves the Vikings to a 3-2 overall record on the season.

Lady Viking Guinevere Contreras ran a fourthplace time of 23:39.27, while Branson Zempel (34th) paced the Vikings with a time of 23:16.32 during the Tuesday, Sept. 28 Hatchery Run hosted by Arlee High School.

Ronan Chiefs and Maidens

On Tuesday, Sept. 28, during the Whitefish Cross Country Invitational held at the Whitefish Lake Golf Course, the Ronan Maidens finished seventh, while the Chiefs placed ninth in the team standings. Maiden Olivia Heiner placed in the top 10 finishers with a ninthplace time of 21:09.37. For the Chiefs, Loclyn Finely (40th) finished with a time of 19:40.39, Keyan Pretty On Top (42nd) ran a time of

CHRISTA UMPHREY PHOTO

Valley Journal

Annie Garde and her dog Scout.

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MTPR ’s Annie Garde to retire Pea Green Boat will continue

News from Montana Public Radio

MISSOULA — The long-time host of Montana Public Radio’s children’s programs, The Pea Green Boat and The Children’s Corner, has announced her retirement. Annie Garde, who took over hosting and producing duties in 2003, will be stepping down after her final broadcasts on Friday, Oct. 8, and Saturday, Oct. 9. “It’s been a dream job — if I can call it a job,” Garde said. “My thanks to the listeners for their support over the years.” Garde said she appreciates the opportunity to introduce guests such as Kate Davis and her birds, Glenn Marangelo as the Bug Guy, the Poetry Club, and children who came in to read their stories or their poems live on-the-air. “I’m really looking forward to seeing what a new host will bring to the show,” Garde said. Garde started as a music host at MTPR in 1979 hosting a variety of programs including Mosaics, Evening Freeforms, Feminist Forum, and more. She was chosen to host and produce the Pea Green Boat and The Children’s Corner after former host Marcia Dunn retired. The Pea Green Boat is one of the longest-running children’s radio programs in the country. “We’ve been so lucky to have Annie on-the-air for Montana children,” MTPR program director Michael Marsolek said. “She’s able to relate to kids with a song, a poem or a story; we’re sad to see her retire. The Pea Green Boat is such a radio refuge for listeners of all ages.” Marsolek added that children’s programming will continue as the station begins a search for the next host of the program. “We are committed to children’s programming at MTPR and plan to bring on a new host this fall,” Marsolek said. The Pea Green Boat airs Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. The Children’s Corner airs each Saturday morning at 8 a.m. Learn more at: http://mtpr.org. October 6, 2021 - 23

calendar Friday, Oct. 8

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

by Montana filmmakers. To watch the BIFF Sizzle Reel, find more film information and festival pricing, visit: mtbiff.com.

Bigfork Film Festival announces films BIGFORK — The Bigfork Film Festival takes place Oct. 8-10 at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts, 526 Electric Ave. Six blocks of films about Montana will be shown over the three-day festival, including two 15-minute documentary shorts segments of “Back Roads of Montana” that highlight the Flathead Valley. BIFF was created 5 years ago as a way for Montana filmmakers to show their films in front of a supportive Montana audience. BIFF only accepts films that were either made in Montana or made

Farmers Market open in Polson POLSON — Polson Farmer’s Market held on Fridays through October in front of Cove Deli from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Kelly Garber to entertain at The Lodge PROCTOR — The Lodge at Lake Mary Ronan, 52012 Lake Mary Ronan Road, hosts live entertainment by Kelly Garber at 6 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 11 Mother Goose entertains toddlers at library POLSON — Mondays mean Mother Goose. Join the North Lake County Public Library at 9:15 a.m. Mother Goose is geared toward ages 0 to 3, but all are welcome. We encourage parents and caregivers to participate with their children for this early learning time. The doors open at 9 a.m. We will practice social distancing. Face masks are recommended but not required.

Wednesday, Oct. 13 Hellroaring Detachment meets

POLSON — The Marine Corps League Hellroaring Detachment #1041 meets on the second Wednesday of each month, (except in December), at 7 p.m. at the Polson VFW, 423 Main Street.

Library shares ghost stories POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library and Lizzy will be your guide on this tour around Montana’s Ghost Towns on the National Geographic Map of Montana on Thursday, Oct. 14 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Our paranormal enthusiast will share some spooky stories of Montana’s history, perfect for an

Mission Valley Live brings ‘America’s Sweethearts’ to Polson By Kristi Niemeyer for the Valley Journal

POLSON — America’s Sweethearts, a New York City-based trio that’s performing in Polson Oct. 15 as part of the Mission Valley Live series, evokes the swinging sounds of the 1940s and ’50s and the tight female harmonies of groups like the Andrews Sisters. Soprano Carly Kincannon, founder of America’s Sweethearts, fell in love with the music of The Andrew Sisters – and the group she calls The Sweets – after moving to New York City from Indiana with dreams of building a Broadway career. While she does have an impressive resume 24- October 6, 2021

America’s Sweethearts

as a vocalist and actor, she says organizing and singing with America’s Sweethearts not only helped her feel at home in the Big Apple, “but the moment I met these inspiring women, it filled a void in my life that I didn’t even know I had. They welcomed me into a family filled with respect, passion

COURTESY PHOTO

and creativity.” The entire company is comprised of 11 singers – four sopranos, four mezzo sopranos and three altos – who tour the nation as trios, sometimes singing to recorded music (as they will during their nine Montana stops), and sometimes with a piano or jazz ensemble.

Since Kincannon founded the company in 2016, America’s Sweethearts have performed across the U.S. including shows at the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in New York City and the National WASP WWII Museum in Texas, as well as in theaters and cabaret settings. With colorful costumes and crystalline harmonies, they deliver selections from the Great American Songbook, classic Broadway, pop tunes from the 1950s, and jazz. A set list might include such familiar tunes as “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Sing Sing Sing,” “It’s My Party,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “It’s In His Kiss (Shoop Shoop Song),” “Somewhere

Valley Journal

October eve. After the presentation we will share ghost stores or experiences people have had while visiting these intriguing places. Attendance will be limited so be sure to come early. Please wear a mask and socks so you can join in the fun and walk all over Montana.

Friday, Oct. 15 Music played at Lodge PROCTOR — The Lodge at Lake Mary Ronan, 52012 Lake Mary Ronan Road, will have live music with David Caselli and Ben Weissgaff at 6 p.m. David will be on drums and Ben will be on guitar playing soft rock and top hits.

Over the Rainbow,” “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” “Fever,” “I Will Follow Him,” and many more. For the group’s founder, America’s Sweethearts offers an opportunity to explore the evolution of harmony through the decades. “Take The Andrews Sisters, for example,” she writes. “They were such a huge hit, and not only because they were beautiful, classy dames in the 1930s. Their music and their incredible, intricate harmonies were an inspiration in a time when there was much darkness.” She hopes the same can be said of America’s Sweethearts, whose goal “is to spread nostalgia, joy, and human connec-

tion through harmonies and music.” The group’s Polson performance begins at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 15, in the high school auditorium. Tickets are $13 in advance (available online at missionvalleylive. com, at the Perfect Shot and First Interstate Bank in Polson and True Value Hardware and R&R Health Care in Ronan) or $15 at the door. Admission is free for ages 13-18 and children 12 and under, who must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. Mission Valley Live follows CDC pandemic guidelines for indoor events, and requires audience and staff to wear masks and keep a safe social distance from others.

obituaries Herbert Sorensen POLSON — Herbert H. Sorensen’s spirit left his mortal body behind on Sept. 26, 2021, surrounded by family at home. Herb was born on May 24, Herb 1930. Sorenson Herb’s life journey started in a lumber camp in Bremerton, Washington. He was the second child of Harry and Bertha Bocksnick Sorensen. He came to Polson with his family as a young child. He graduated in 1950 from Polson High School, married his high school sweetheart June Sagmiller, then served as a radio operator in the Korean War. Upon military discharge, Herb built a family, a home, friendships, and a legacy of generosity. Generations of kids called Herb “Uncle’”or “Grandpa,” whether they were actually related or not. The Sorensen work ethic, integrity and generosity has touched countless lives. Herb was a classic “taker-care-of-er.” He loved, and took care of his family, others in need, and his critters (horses, cows, chickens, dogs, cats, ducks ...). Herb was preceded

in death by two sisters, Myrtle and Bertie; his wife, June; and two sons, Herbie and Kevin. He leaves behind his son, KC (Cindy) Sorensen; his daughter, Jean (Ted) Basler; grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, neighbors, and friends who all feel the sting of loss but have been touched and are grateful to have known such a big-hearted man. A Celebration of Life will be held this next summer. Cards can be mailed to 38744 Morgan Lane, Polson MT 59860, c/o of KC and Cindy. Written memories of Herb would be greatly welcomed. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation. com. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

Delbert J. (Bud) Steele ST. IGNATIUS — Delbert J. (Bud) Steele passed peacefully on Sept. 28, 2021, at his home in St. Ignatius with family at Bud his side. Steele

Bud was born Aug. 22, 1930 on the Jim Johnson Ranch in Milk River to John W. and Doris Carter Steele. Bud attended elementary school on the Blackfeet reservation. This is also where his cowboy life began before enlisting for military service. Bud served in the U.S. Army, Company E 35th Infantry Regiment 25 Division during the Korean War. A proud patriot, he defended his county at Heartbreak Ridge, Hill 57 and Chosin Reservoir. Bud was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, United Nations Service Medal, Korean Service Medal with two bronze stars, three silver stars. Before leaving for service, Bud married his true love, Joyce Leighton. On Feb. 3, 1951, in Moses Lake, Washington, Bud and Joyce began their life together and three children were lovingly woven into this incredible western tapestry that Bud and Joyce called life – Wesley, Cindy and Mark. What followed was a 70-year adventure raising family, building lifelong friendships, and working sideby-side throughout their ranching years. In addition to being an active member of the LDS church, Bud was a founding member of the Othello Rodeo Association. Bud Steele was a cowboy from birth. He

was at home when in the saddle, working cattle, or training his well-bred colts. When not working, Bud could be found braiding rawhide reins and riatas. Bud unknowingly authored a long list of true cowboy stories, with both laughter and tears; stories that will be passed down through generations. Bud’s passing is preceded by two children, Wesley and Cindy; great-granddaughter, Harlee; parents, John and Doris, sisters, Deloris Sullivan and Lila Weis; brothers, Mathew Steele and Wilford (Swede) Steele. Bud is survived by his wife, Joyce; son, Mark (Donna) Steele; sisters, Dorothy Hoots of Othello, Washington, and Hazel Kotlan of Spokane, Washington, ten grandchildren, Joshua, Crystal, Brad, Hunter, Tanya, Andrea, Brandy, Jessica, William, and Ty; thirteen great-grandchildren and a long list of “adopted” family. Services will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 6, at 11 a.m. at the LDS Church in St. Ignatius. Graveside services will be held at Bess Hampton Memorial Gardens in Othello, Washington, on Oct. 9. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www.shriderthompson.com. Arrangements are under the care of Shrid-

Valley Journal

er-Thompson Funeral Home.

Violet Harris RONAN — Violet Elaine Harris, 68, of Round Butte, went on to meet her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Sept. 22, Violet Harris 2021, at St. Luke Hospital in Ronan. Violet was born to Sonny and Janie Chisholm July 14, 1953, in Kalispell. She is preceded in death by Janie Chisholm, her mom; and her grandparents, Bill and Mary Chubb and Renn Chisholm. Violet is survived by her dad, Sonny Chisholm; Herb Harris, her husband; her children, Joshua (Shianne) Harris, Stacy Harris (Callahan Belling); her grandchildren, Madison Harris, Brennan Harris, Cort Belling and Hayes Harris; her siblings: Barb (Virgil) Rinke, Bill ( Judy) Chisholm, Thom (Brandy) Chisholm, Jen ( Jeff ) Brander; her aunt, Billie Chubb and numerous nieces and nephews. In high school she participated in track and field, cross-country, band, and choir. After graduation from high

school Violet moved to Kalispell and found work at Moose’s Saloon where she was given the nickname “Tulip”. Violet didn’t have a vehicle to drive home and she hadn’t seen mom and dad for a while, so she decided to take her new ten-speed pedal bike one Saturday in spring and head for home. She made it to the train tracks just outside of Kalispell and she wrecked the bike. Determined as she was, she set out again the following Saturday, this time making it past the tracks only to realize that the “Big Draw” runs uphill. She made it home and told mom she wasn’t doing that again, so mom drove her back to Kalispell. The bike was stolen shortly after. On Nov. 16, 1974, she married the love of her life, Herb Harris, in Hot Springs and made clear she was not a “Suzie homemaker” or a “broodmare.’’ Together they enjoyed many adventures in life, from the joys and trials of ranch life, to the thousands of miles she drove to rodeos throughout Montana and Canada. On March 18, 1981, she gave birth to her son Joshua Wyatt Harris. She gave Herb his forever team roping partner. Five years later on April 27, 1986, she gave birth to the real cowboy in the family, Stacy Kayleen see page 26

October 6, 2021 - 25

housing

Obituaries

from page 2 from page 25

Harris. Violet enjoyed the rodeo lifestyle and enjoyed competing in barrel racing and supporting her family any way she could. Violet had a gentle and understanding hand when breaking and starting colts; even those darn bucking ponies when her and Barb were kids. Violet and her dearest friend Zana Lytle founded the WMCA, Western Montana Cowgirl’s Association. This organization led the way for many young cowboys and cowgirls to participate in the rodeo arena. Violet’s most treasured moments were spent loving and spoiling her four grandkids: Madison-13, Brennan-11, Cort-8, and Hayes-2 months. Violet was an active member of the Order of Eastern Star, she was a 50-year member. She was Past Worthy Matron of Cathryn C. Johnson Chapter #132 in Hot Springs. She was a Grand representative and served on many Grand Chapter Committees. She took pride in the work she did for the Shriner’s children’s hospital in Spokane, Washington. She spent countless hours creating flower arrangements for family and friends for many different occasions. Violet was a devoted member of the Faith Lutheran Church of Ronan. Services have been held. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be sent to Shriners Hospital for Children in Spokane.

26 - October 6, 2021

“A bigger problem in our county is that about 82% of our property taxes are generated from private property taxes,” Decker said. “This is second highest in the state. There is little industry here that generate taxes, so the burden falls on property owners.” But that problem comes with a “what came first, chicken or the egg” question? As the price of brick and mortar buildings skyrocket, it drives up the cost of starting a business, making the startup costs of business also rise. Businesses that already exist are facing labor shortages, and some are closing because of it, meaning even less of a tax base for the county. On Sept. 13, Farmhouse, a cafe in Lakeside, announced it was closing after seven years in business. “Despite our best efforts, we are unable to find enough staff to provide you with the level of service that you deserve and that you’ve come to know here at Farmhouse,” the cafe posted on social media. The need for affordable housing isn’t limited to Lake County. It’s a national issue, and in the first week of September the Biden administration rolled out plans to build 100,000 affordable homes over the next three years nationwide. Projections from the National Low Income Housing Coalition show that’s just a drop in the bucket to what’s needed, as the group estimates the nation needs 6.8 million affordable homes to meet demand. Even as the federal government tries to try out new programs to ease the housing crunch, there’s evidence that stakeholders in Montana are

“There are solutions to the lack of housing, but we all need to be willing to think out of the box sometimes.” KIM MORISAKI, NORTHWEST MONTANA COMMUNITY LAND TRUST DIRECTOR

underutilizing currently available federal resources. A December 2020 report from the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana states there were 344 low-income housing units in Lake County utilizing federal low-income housing tax credits as of that time. There were 7,977 total apartment units developed using tax credits in Montana at that time. This federal program requires the owners of the properties to commit to keep the housing affordable for 30 years, however, owners can opt out of the program after 15 years if they choose. They have to put the units on the market, but if no qualified buyers are found, the owners can be released from the program early. “In areas with relatively booming housing markets, selling the property may be a more attractive option than continued compliance,” the BBER report notes. “Over the next five years, 564 LIHTC housing units in Montana will be facing this potential of being lost to the market.” The bureau projects that 28 of the affordable housing units in Lake County could be lost by 2025 due to the booming market. “Since 2012, Montana has only financed 717 affordable housing units (including acquisition, rehabilitation, and new construction) with federal 4 percent low-income housing tax credits, illustrating the difficulty Valley Journal

this program has for attracting developers in Montana,” the bureau concluded. “In this same period of time, Montana has abandoned $949 million in tax-exempt private activity bonds (PABs).” PABs can be used to finance 4 percent low-income housing tax credits. Another program, which offers 9 percent low-income housing tax credits has unmet demand in the state. “Since 2016, an average of $62 million per year in 9 percent low-income housing tax credit requests has been denied due to lack of funding,” the bureau explained. “These projects would have significantly expanded the inventory of affordable housing in Montana. A state LIHTC program similar to those implemented in other states would likely allow developers to leverage 4 percent federal tax credits which are currently unutilized in order to increase the supply of affordable housing in the state.” The bureau concludes that the housing issue is a major one for Montanans. “With relatively few affordable homes available for households earning a low income, and with much of the existing affordable inventory aging and in need of rehabilitation, many households earning a low income are being priced out of housing markets,” the report’s author, Brandon Bridge, economist and director of bureau forecasting noted. “We are now facing ever expanding economic challenges, and these issues and

concerns are not going away or getting better. When housing becomes unaffordable, it imposes costs on entire communities, but the most vulnerable in society bear the brunt of those costs. Housing affordability will likely be a challenge that Montanans continue to face in the coming years, and as such it deserves a place in public conversation.” For two local groups, the housing issue is more than a conversation. It’s a pressing issue that’s being tackled by stakeholders in the community. Earlier this year the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe’s Housing Authority and the Tribal Public Defenders office came together to turn the old Starlite Motel in downtown Ronan into the valley’s first permanent, supportive housing units by using federal CARES ACT funds. The project created housing for 14 single individuals. It includes office space for a services coordinator and space for a caretaker. Supportive services for residents include legal consults, job readiness training, and mental health services. “Every individual at Morning Star has a different set of circumstances, a unique story, but generally I would say that Morning Star provides safe, stable, affordable housing that meets people where they are,” said Susette Billedeaux of the Tribal Public Defenders office. “(Permanent supportive housing) is a housing first model, so once we can provide this safe space for someone to live then we have the supportive services available to meet their other needs. We’re not a zero-tolerance program, so when individuals mess up, it’s what humans do, it’s not the end of see page 27

housing from page 26

housing for them.” Participants in the program only pay 30 percent of their income to live there, or in the case of joblessness, the housing authority steps in to help cover the cost. The demand for services outpaces the supply. “We consider it to be successful, although it is still very early and a new program for us,” Billedeaux said. “Being able to provide safe, stable housing for 14 individuals is alone a success and we hope that there will be other success stories to add to that. We have received 54 applications total so far and only have 14 single occupancy units.” In this case, a group of dedicated individuals is making a difference in the community. “Morning Star wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the Tribal Council and the hard work of many different Tribal Programs working together,” Billedeaux said. “We also had the support of the whole Tribal Defenders staff and our Managing Attorney, Ann Miller, who agreed to take this on when asked by the Homelessness Task Force. We also have a great Coordinator, Stephen Hunt, working at Morning Star.” A recent report shows that programs like supportive housing can help reduce taxpayer burden.

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

The Salish Kootenai Housing Authority utilized federal CARES ACT funds to turn the former Starlite Motel in Ronan into affordable, supportive housing. Morning Star apartments now house 14 individuals in single occupancy units.

In 2019 the Corporation for Supportive Housing found that the top 10 percent of costliest individuals experiencing homelessness in Montana had an average of $53,463 in Medicaid expenditures in 2017. Individuals in that same group averaged $49,906 in Medicaid claims. Billledeaux said the Homelessness Task Force continues to work and explore more housing needs on the reservation. To the north in Kalispell, the Northwest Montana Community Land Trust is accomplishing what seems impossible in today’s housing market: connecting individuals with affordable homes. Recently a family working with the group purchased a home for just $111,000, less than many undeveloped lots of land in the area. The trust got its start in 2009 with the Neighborhood Stabilization Program, which gave $3 million to get foreclosure

homes off the market. The funding purchased 52 homes, which were put into a trust. People participating in the program pay the mortgage for the home plus a $25 per month ground fee. When a participating family wants to move, they sell the home back to the trust, and are able to recover their initial investment plus 25 percent in the increased appraised value. The difference between the home’s value and what it’s sold for can then be used as a tax write off. The program has never expanded to more than the 52 homes originally purchased. The trust’s new director, Kim Morisaki, is hoping to change that as 25 families, totaling 50 people sit on a growing waiting list to get into the homes. There are also talks to expand in the Mission Valley. “We were established to serve Northwest Montana and are talking with Polson now to see if there is a way to work togeth-

er going forward. I’m excited about that opportunity, but it is just a conversation at this time,” Morisaki said. In addition to community trusts, Morisaki said there are other opportunities, and not all of them require public investment. “There are solutions to the lack of housing, but we all need to be willing to think out of the box sometimes,” Morisaki said. “There are many solutions, and we need all of them because one size does not fit all. Other solutions besides the Community Land Trust Model are allowing developers to build more houses, apartments, townhomes, etc. within city limits in a more dense fashion. This allows more people to take advantage of the investment that the community has already made in services like water, sewer and police/fire – spreading the cost among more citizens and lowering the cost per household.”

Valley Journal

One solution could be accessory dwelling units. These units are typically less than 1,000 square feet and are added to a property in the alley or backyard. “The beauty of ADUs is that an older couple can build one on their property and their adult children and/or grandchildren can come home to live there,” Morisaki said. “Lots of people want to come back to Montana and this is one way to make that move easier. It also lets people have another source of revenue if they rent out one of the houses.” Another solution might be for companies to offer housing. Morisaki is a Flathead Valley native who has spent many years in Japan before moving back home. She saw companies offer housing solutions while abroad. “When I lived in Japan most companies had dormitories, apartments and/or houses that their employees could buy or

rent,” Morisaki said. “It was a benefit that employees could use just like paid vacation or health insurance. It wasn’t free, it was just simply available. Lots of young adults just out of college lived in the company dorm where they had their own room with a kitchenette, but shared bathrooms and larger common spaces. Lots of the dorms actually had cafeterias - again, not free, just simply available to make it easy to attract and keep employees. So I think that there are ways for private investment and business owners to address some of these challenges.” As Montanans work to find solutions, Morisaki sees her work with community land trusts as one possible piece to help keep housing affordable, and communities full of people needed to fill critical roles, not unlike Angela Claver, working for a modest wage as a public servant at the public library in Polson. “I think every community should think of the CLT model as a one-time investment to ensure permanent homeownership attainability for people the community needs to run smoothly,” Morisaki said “Think about police officers, firemen, teachers, city/county office staff, newspaper reporters, hospital staff.” She says anyone interested in the community land trust can get in touch at 406-261-8831.

October 6, 2021 - 27

classifieds Announcements Wanted WANTED TO BUY Guns and/or ammunition, old or new. Whole estates/collections or single pieces. Fair prices paid. 207-4641 FREON WANTED: We pay $$$ for cylinders and cans. R12 R500 R11 R113 R114. Convenient. Certified Professionals. Call (312)-291-9169 or visit RefrigerantFinders. com

Employment Help wanted Request for Bids Wetland Consulting for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Wetland Program The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) Division of Environmental Protection (DOEP) is requesting bids for environmental consul-

tation work for the Wetlands Conservation Program. Work will include: 1) data analysis using existing Tribal spatial and plant data as well as publicly assessable data sources to write a brief report of trends on wetland functionality and plant community change for each of the 7 watersheds (sub-basins) on the Flathead Indian Reservation; 2) wetland assessment and monitoring at 20 sites in the Camas Watershed (MWAM, 2008 method) as well as compiling plant species lists for each site and writing a watershed wetland assessment and monitoring report; 3) landscape assessment of each of the seven watersheds to identify areas to target for conservation or restoration efforts. The DOEP is seeking to hire a consultant with experience collecting wetland data for assessments, familiarity with wetland classification on the Flathead Indian Reservation, and experience writing documents. Consultant must have experience collecting data using the 2008 Montana Department of Transportation Rapid Assessment Method

and experience utilizing valid publicly assessable data sources. The contract for consultant services will begin Fall 2021 and be completed by September 30, 2024. All work will be performed on the Flathead Indian Reservation. This is an Indian Preference Bid. Tribal Contractors who wish to receive Indian Preference must obtain certification by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Indian Preference Office as a legitimate Indian-owned business prior to the submission of bids. In order to claim Indian Preference, proof of Indian Preference Certification must be included with your bid in the form of a copy of the certificate issued by the Indian Preference Office. Be advised, evidence of your membership or affiliation with a tribe does not constitute Indian Preference certification. The selection of the successful contractor and award of this project will be per the provisions of the CSKT Indian Preference Ordinance 101A. It is the sole responsibility of the bidder to obtain and provide proof of Indian Preference certification

from the Indian Preference Office. For more information on Indian Preference certification, contact Melinda Charlo, (406) 675-2700 ext. 1045. Bids must be received by 4:00 p.m. on September 30, 2021 and mailed or delivered to the following address: Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Attention: Wetlands Program 301 Main Street Polson, Montana 59860 For additional information contact Tabitha Espinoza at the Natural Resource Department at (406) 883-2888 extension 7238. HEALTHCARE RESOURCE ADVOCATE - (1 or more positions) - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor’s or Associate Degree in Social Work, Medical or Business Administration or minimum of five (5) years’ increasingly responsible and relevant work experience including 2 years’ experience working with the RPMS data

system. Must pass a background check. Must possess and maintain a valid State of Montana driver’s license. Must adhere to CSKT social media policy and other Tribal policies regarding professional conduct. Must adhere to all Tribal Health Department directives and policies. Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license. Will be required to participate in pre-hire drug test and random drug tests thereafter. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript/ training certificate, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary is $17.99 to $20.83. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1040, or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at cskt.org. Closing date will be Thursday, Oct. 14,

2021 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. ENTRY LEVEL PROSECUTING ATTORNEY TRIBAL PROSECUTORS OFFICE (CONTRACT POSITION) This position requires specialized knowledge acquired through intensive academic preparation at college level and/or legal educational institution. Must be a graduate of an ABA approved law school with a juris doctor and admitted to practice law in the State of Montana or must be admitted to practice law in the State of Montana within six (6) months of hiring. Must have knowledge of general legal principles, criminal law and procedures, court procedures, law enforcement procedures, Federal law, Tribal Court and Indian law. Must have knowledge of the social and cultural lifestyles of the reservation community, knowledge of legal research methods, knowledge of basic legal writing and document preparation. Knowledge of word processing and related see page 29

This week's puzzle answers: Crypto-Quote Solution YESTERDAY'S THE PAST, TOMORROW'S THE FUTURE, BUT TODAY IS A GIFT. THAT'S WHY IT'S CALLED THE PRESENT. - BIL KEANE

28 - October 6, 2021

Valley Journal

classifieds Help wanted cont’d from pg. 28 computer programs such as Word, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Office, NexisLexis and Practice Panther or similar programs. Applicant must have no criminal convictions other than minor traffic infractions for which the punishment does not include the possibility of a jail sentence. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, legal writing sample, proof of license showing you are in good standing with the bar of the State of Montana, copy of valid state driver’s license, copies of relevant transcripts and/or certificates and resume to the Tribal Personnel Department, 406.675.2700 ext. 1259 or visit the csktribes.org website for the application. Salary is negotiable, depending on experience. Closing date will be Thursday, October 14, 2021 @ 5:30 p.m. The successful applicant, if not already employed with the Tribes, must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a six-month probationary period. CSKT IS AN INDIAN PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. ALLIED HEALTH SERVICES DIVISION DIRECTOR TRIBAL HEALTH DEPT. The successful applicant must possess a Master’s degree in a health related field or health administration with 5 years’ experience OR a Bachelor’s degree in a health related field such as nursing or health administration, with 10 years’ administrative experience, which must include supervision of employees, managing multiple budgets, grant management and writing reports. Project Management certificate within 6 months of hire. The employee must have professional experience in developing, implementing and evaluating health prevention, intervention and healthcare treatment services according to best practices for Native Americans, in public health. A current valid driver’s

license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript/training certificate, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copyof DD214 must be submitted. The successful applicant, if not already employed by Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary is 34.60-$44.94 per hour, plus benefits. May be employed under a contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406)675-2700 Ext. #1040, or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at cskt.org. Closing date will be October 21, 2021 @5:30 p.m. MST. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. $5,000 Sign-on for qualified, Diesel Mechanics at Westmoreland, Mining, LLC, based at the Absaloka mine near Hardin, MT. Great pay and benefits package. Apply online at Westmoreland.jobs.net DENTAL HYGIENIST – 1 or more- May be employed under contract TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT - Polson The successful applicant must be a graduate of an accredited dental hygiene program. A Bachelor’s of Science degree is preferred. Must possess and maintain a current license to practice dental hygiene in the State of Montana. Licensed to administer local oral anesthesia. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript/training certificate, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary is $30.27 to $39.32 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 cskt. org. Closing date will be Thursday, October 21,

2021 at 5:30 p.m MST CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. Due to expansion, Enviro-Tire is accepting applications for 1-2 additional driving positions. No tire loading, drop and hook only. CDL Class A Truck Driver with doubles endorsement for Montana, Idaho and Washington day runs. Home every night. Work site is in Lonepine, Mt. Year-round, full-time position. Pay $20.00+ per hour DOE and ability. Mandatory DOT drug testing. Vacation & holiday pay. Office phone and fax (406) 755-7716, enviro-tire@montanasky.com WETLANDS CONSERVATION PLAN COORDINATOR - DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must possess a Master’s Degree in Natural Resources, Environmental Studies, Hydrology, Watershed Management, Environmental Science, Ecology, or related degree. Applicants with an educational background in Aquatic Ecology or Chemistry with an emphasis on Aquatic Chemistry will be considered and 3 years of directly relevant experience. Possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s license, and ability to be insurable under the Tribes’ insurance policy. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copies of relevant academic transcripts and/or certificates, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veterans preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is not a (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range $22.22 to $28.86 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1259/1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, October 21st, 2021 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. Request for Bids Wetland Cartography/Data Collection Work for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Wetland Program The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) Environmental Protection Division is requesting bids for a consultant to perform wetland cartography, wetland assessment and monitoring, field data collection and ArcGIS survey-based data collection, data analysis, and land cover change analysis, for the CSKT Tribal Wetland Program. The NRD is seeking to hire the consultant with 15 years of experience in geographic information systems, data analysis, data collection, and report development for the Tribes and the Environmental Protection Agency. Specifically, the consultant needs to have experience collecting wetland data for assessments, familiarity with wetland classification on the Flathead Indian Reservation, and experience writing environmental assessment documents for federal agencies. Consultant must have experience collecting data using the 2008 Montana Department of Transportation Rapid Assessment Method and experience using the Montana Natural Heritage Program website and data. The contract for consultant services will begin Fall 2021 and be completed by September 30, 2024. All work will be performed on the Flathead Indian Reservation. This is an Indian Preference Bid. Tribal see page 30

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October 6, 2021 - 29

classifieds Help wanted cont’d from pg. 29 Contractors who wish to receive Indian Preference must obtain certification by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Indian Preference Office as a legitimate Indian-owned business prior to the submission of bids. In order to claim Indian Preference, proof of Indian Preference Certification must be included with your bid in the form of a copy of the certificate issued by the Indian Preference Office. Be advised, evidence of your membership or affiliation with a tribe does not constitute Indian Preference certification. The selection of the successful contractor and award of this project will be per the provisions of the CSKT Indian Preference Ordinance 101A. It is the sole responsibility of the bidder to obtain and provide proof of Indian Preference certification from the Indian Preference Office. For more information on Indian Preference certification, contact Melinda Charlo, (406) 675-2700 ext. 1045. Bids must be received by 4:00 p.m. on September 30, 2021 and mailed or delivered to the following address: Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Attention: Wetlands Program 301 Main Street Polson, Montana 59860 For additional information contact Tabitha Espinoza at the Natural Resource Department at (406) 883-2888 extension 7238. Extension Agent – Family and Consumer Science/4-H Youth Development, Lake County, Ronan, MT. Full time. Will provide leadership for the FCS and 4-H/Youth Development programs. Complete information and to apply online: http://msuextension.org, click on “Careers.” Screening begins October 11, 2021. Equal Opportunity Employer, 30 - October 6, 2021

Veterans/Disabled. HVAC/R Maintenance Technician. **Recent Wage Increase** Montana State University – Bozeman For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs. montana.edu/ postings/24507. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled. DENTAL ASSISTANT 1 OR MORE POSITIONS TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT - Polson The successful applicant must possess a Certificate of Completion in a Dental Assistant Training Program and/or an AA in a recognized Dental Assistant training Program and/ or 3 years’ experience. A valid driver’s license is required. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, copy of academic transcripts, certificates and licensure, copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $14.75 to $19.16 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. 21, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. MST. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. CYTS COUNSELOR/CASE MANAGER CONTRACT POSITION DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT The successful applicant is preferred to possess a Master’s Degree in Social Work, psychology or related field, may be currently enrolled in a graduate program. Two

years’ experience working with at-risk families and children to strength family systems. Experience providing screening, case management and conducting support groups. Past charges for child abuse, neglect, or sexual abuse will be investigated through the background and suitability determination process. Must not be found guilty of two or more misdemeanors offenses, under federal, state or tribal law, involving crimes of violence, sexual assault, molestation, crimes against persons or children. Must not have any felony offense. Will be required to pass a criminal background and suitability check per PL 101-630 Indian Child and family violence protection act, cannot have any substantiated CPS referrals. Will be required to report to supervisor in the event of any civil or criminal charges. No misdemeanor convictions in the past year, with the exception of traffic offenses. Traffic offenses cannot exceed three within the last two (2) years. Must not be subject of current criminal investigation, which would include indictments. Must not have had a driving under the influence of substances or a per se within the last two years. Position is required to sign a confidentiality agreement on at least an annual basis and to observe and uphold professional levels of communication protocols. This position is a testing designated position (TDP) under terms and conditions of the CSKT drug testing program and implementing rules. This position is subject to a background check in accordance with Public Law 101-630, 25US Section 3201 and Public Law 101-647, 42USC Section 13031. The background check also includes child protective service checks and driving record checks. This position is a mandatory reporter of child abuse and neglect situations. Position requires much flexibility in schedule. Schedule depend on required needs of clients, sometimes requiring evening or weekend transporting due to parents schedules. Will maintain and

participate in other duties as assigned. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, copy of academic transcripts/ training certificates, copy of current valid driver’s license and proof of insurance, 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. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required prior to your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary is $19.76 to $22.88 per hour with benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1259/1040. Tribal applications are also available on-line at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, October 14th, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: JOHN R. RAY, Deceased. Dept No. 2001 Cause No. DP 21-60 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to JUDY K. RAY, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o PETERS AND KROWN, PLLC, 443 Osborn Avenue, Suite 114, Bigfork, Montana 59911, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. DATED this 16th day of September, 2021. /s/ Judy K. Ray JUDY K. RAY, Personal Representative PETERS AND KROWN, PLLC By: /s/ Zac Peters Zac Peters Attorneys for JUDY K. RAY, Personal Representative Sept. 29, Oct. 6 and 13, 2021 MNAXLP

Public Notices Legals Legals Zac Peters State Bar No. 60697885 PETERS AND KROWN, PLLC 443 Osborn Avenue, Suite 114 Bigfork, Montana 59911 Telephone: 406-420-1060 Telefax: 406-637-8829 Email: zac@petersandkrown.com Attorneys for JUDY K. RAY, Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT,

Valley Journal

Notice of November 2, 2021, Municipal General Nonpartisan Election, Counting of Provisional Ballots, Public Test, and County Canvass Notice is hereby given by the Lake County Election Administrator that the Municipal General Nonpartisan Election will be held on Tuesday, November 2, 2021, by mail ballot. Ballots will be mailed on October 15, 2021, to active status voters only. Ballots may be returned in person or by mail to the Election Office at 106 4th Ave E, Polson, MT 59860 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. from October 15th - November 1st and 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Election Day, November 2nd. Voted ballots must be received by the Election Office by 8:00 p.m. on November 2nd to be counted. Electors will consider the following races for the election: City of Polson: mayor and city commissioner for

Wards 1, 2, and 3; City of Ronan: mayor, judge, and city council member for Ward 1; Town of St. Ignatius: mayor. All positions are for a four-year term. One ballot issue will also be considered in Lake County Rural District: Shall the Lake County Commissioners be authorized to levy four (4) mills per year for two (2) years, which will generate approximately $221,241 per year for the purpose of purchasing road oil to be used to rehabilitate present chip sealed roads in the County. The duration of the levy is limited to two (2) years. If approved, the fiscal impact is estimated at: $5.40 per year on a home with a market value of $100,000; $10.80 per year on a home with a market value of $200,000. Sample ballots can be viewed at www.lakemt. gov/election- /election.html. NOTE: Due to the number of filings received the City of Ronan canceled the election for city council members in Ward 2 and Ward 3. The Town of St. Ignatius canceled the election for city council members-at-large, these positions will be elected by acclamation. The following events are open to the public and will occur at the Lake County Courthouse for the November 2nd Municipal General Nonpartisan Election. Public testing of the ExpressVote and DS-450 will be held at 9:00 a.m. on October 20th in the Election Office. Early ballot preparation will occur from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 28th, and Friday, October 29th in the Large Conference Room on the third floor of the Lake County Courthouse. Tabulating of ballots will occur from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 1st, and continue on November 2nd from 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. in the large conference room. Results will not be released until after 8:00 p.m. on Election Day. Counting of provisional ballots will begin at 3:10 p.m. on November 8th, in the Election Office and, the county canvass will be held in the Commissioners’ Chambers at 10:00 a.m. on November 10th. * Montana law requires that any person participating or observing the procedures of the count is required to take an oath that they will not discuss the results of the early counting of votes at any time before the closing of the polls on Election Day. A person who knowingly violates this law shall be imprisoned for a term not to exceed two years and/or be fined an amount not less than $100,000 and not more see page 31

public notices Legal Notices cont’d from pg. 30 than $500,000. DATED this 24th day of September 2021. /s/Toni Kramer Election Administrator Lake County, Montana Sept.29 and Oct. 6, 2021 MNAXLP CALL FOR BIDS Ronan School District No. 30, Lake County, Ronan, Montana is calling for bids for construction of a 90’ x 40’ building. If you have questions please contact Sandra Beal, Curriculum, Grants, and Federal Program Director, at 676-3390 ext. 7206. Bids must be received by October 8, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. at the District Administration Office at 421 Andrew NW, Ronan, MT. Bids should be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Softball Complex.” Specifications: Detailed Building Specs: 58’.6” x 40’ - Indoor batting area 15’ x 30’ 7/16” - Away locker room w/2 sinks and 1 toilet. 15’ x 30’ 7/16” - Home locker room w/2 sinks and 2 toilets. 10’ x 8’4 9/64” - Coaches office 9’ x 8’4 9/64 - Public Restroom w/1 sink and 1 toilet 10’ x 8’4 9/64 - Public restroom w/1 sink and 1 toilet 5 external doors 2 internal doors Large garage door 12’ Home dugout 28’ wide w/concrete slab and roof A bid bond in the amount of 10% of the bid amount must accompany all bids, per MCA 18-1-202. This bid bond will be returned to the unsuccessful bidders when the bid is awarded. Bids will be opened at the regular meeting of the Board of Trustees at 7:00 p.m. on October 11, 2021 in the K. William Harvey Elementary multi-purpose room. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to waive irregularities, to evaluate the bids submitted and to accept the proposal which best serves the interest of the school district.

Sept. 29 and Oct. 6, 2021 MNAXLP PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Storage Auction: In accordance with the provisions of Montana Law, Code Ann. §70-6-420; there being past due and unpaid charges for the storage of your property, TSMR Storage, (located at 36339 Mink Lane, Ronan, MT 406.260.2371) is entitled to satisfy an owner’s lien of said property. Therefore, notice is hereby given that TSMR Storage will sell via auction described below belonging to the individual(s) listed below starting 10:00 a.m., on Saturday, October 16th, 2021. If there are no bidders, the property will be donated to charity or disposed of accordingly. Randy Hinson Monica Green Robin Charlton-Fry Rick Darnell Becky Coffman William Azure Jr. Nicole Brown All contents sold “as is” and by unit only. Seller neither warrants title to any items sold and does not make any express or implied warranties to any item sold. We reserve the right to refuse any and all bids. October 6 and 13, 2021 MNAXLP John A. Mercer Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP Attorneys at Law 312 First St. E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: (406) 883-5367

jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: RANDY ALAN VIAL, Deceased. Cause No.: DP-21-61 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and that the address of the Personal Representative is set forth below. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate must present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first

publication of this Notice, or be forever barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of the District Court, at Polson, Lake County, Montana, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to the Personal Representative, c/o TURNAGE, MERCER & WALL, PLLP, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at 312 1st St. E, Polson, MT 59860. /s/ TIM ALAN VIAL Tim Alan Vial Personal Representative, Estate of RANDY ALAN VIAL, Deceased. Sept. 22, 29, and Oct. 6, 2021 MNAXLP PUBLIC NOTICE: The Board of Lake County Commissioners are seeking qualified individuals interested in being nominated to serve on the Flathead Reservation Water Management Board for a period of two to four years. General requirements: Must be over 18 years of age, any reservation resident, education, and experience in one or more of the following fields: natural resources management, public administration, agriculture, engineering, commerce or finance, hydrology, biological sciences, water law or water policy. If interested, please contact Lake County Commissioners office at lakecommissioners@lakemt.gov or 406-883-7204 for an application packet that will include a full description of the duties and responsibilities of the board no later than November 1, 2021. Sept. 29 and Oct. 6, 2021 MNAXLP The Board of Lake County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Monday, October 18, 2021 at 10:00 am in the Commissioners Chambers, located at 106 4th Avenue East, Polson MT, 59860, room 211 for the purpose of taking public comment on the resolution listed below. If you are unable to attend the meeting but wish to make a public comment, you may do so by emailing lakecommissioners@ lakemt.gov or sending your comments to Lake County Commissioners, 106 4th Avenue East, Polson, MT 59860. If you have further questions please

contact the Commissioners office at 406.883.7204 RESOLUTION OF INTENT 21-23 AMENDED A Resolution to cease the spending of County funds to repair, replace or rehabilitate infrastructure of the Flathead Indian Irrigation Project WHEREAS, Montana Code Annotated 7-14-2101 (1) (a) (i), provides that the board of County Commissioners may, “lay out, maintain, control and manage county roads and bridges within the county, and; WHEREAS, Montana Code Annotated 7-14-2103 (1), states that, “A board of county commissioners has general supervision over the county roads within the county, and; WHEREAS, Montana Code Annotated 7-14-2103 (4), states that, “A board of county commissioners may determine the level and scope of maintenance on a county road under its jurisdiction…,” and; WHEREAS, Lake County has 1,403 culverts and 68 bridges, the majority of which are infrastructure of the Flathead Indian Irrigation Project where it crosses and intersects with county maintained roads, and; WHEREAS, the County has historically repaired, rehabilitated and replaced that infrastructure used by the Flathead Indian Irrigation Project, and; WHEREAS, the Montana Water Rights’ Protection Act provides that improvements, additions, or modifications to the FIIP become a part of the project and are recorded in the inventory of the Secretary relating to the FIIP, and; WHEREAS, the office of Senator Steve Daines, who helped author the MWRPA, has advised the County that the infrastructure of the FIIP “belongs to Lake County.” and; WHEREAS, the conclusions are opposite each other, and; WHEREAS, the County requested a legal opinion from the Office the Montana Attorney General resolving the conflicting views regarding ownership of the FIIP infrastructure, which has not occurred, and; WHEREAS, the County cannot justify spending taxpayer dollars on infrastructure that it may not own, WHEREAS, the County resolves to cease repair, rehabilitation, and replacement of FIIP infrastructure until a legal opinion is rendered resolving the questions of ownership and responsibility for maintenance and repair of project infrastructure used crossing county and other roads.

Valley Journal

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Lake County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Monday, October 18, 2021, at 10:00 am for the purpose of taking public comment on this Resolution of Intention; PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS 21st DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2021. BOARD OF LAKE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS William D. Barron, Chairman Steve Stanley, Member Gale Decker, Member Attest: Katie Harding, Clerk & Recorder Sept. 29 and Oct. 6, 2021 MNAXLP Public Notice The Lake County Conservation District will hold a public hearing on Thursday, October 14th, 2021 at 6 p.m at the Lake County Conservation District Office (64352 US Highway 93 Ronan, Montana 59864) The purpose of the public hearing will be to revise and adopt natural streambed and land preservation act rules governing the administration of the district’s stream permitting program. The revision will include adopting the most current rules provided by the DNRC. The public hearing will be held to provide an opportunity to present views and submit written comments on the proposed rules. Copies of the draft rules are available on the district website: https://lakecountyconservationdistrict.org/2021/08/16/4685/ or by contacting the district, (406) 676-2811x119. In response to Covid-19, Lake County Conservation District will conduct the public hearing in person, following all social distancing guidelines, and via Zoom. To get the Zoom link email: sklaus@macdnet.org. Oct. 6, 2021 MNAXLP Matthew H. O’Neill Skyler C. Bagley O’NEILL LAW OFFICE, PLLC 402 First Street East, Suite 201 P. O. Box 699 Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: (406) 883-5444 Facsimile: (406) 883-1585 matt@polsonlaw.com skyler@polsonlaw.com

Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WAYNE LEE ATCHISON, Deceased. CAUSE No. DP-21-59 Hon. Deborah Kim Christopher NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and that the address of the Personal Representative is set forth below. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate must present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice, or be forever barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of the 20th Judicial District Court, at 106 4th Ave. East, Polson, Montana 59860, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to the Personal Representative, c/o O’NEILL LAW OFFICE, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at P.O. Box 699, Polson, MT 59860. /s/ IAN ATCHISON IAN ATCHISON, Personal Representative, Estate of WAYNE LEE ATCHISON, Deceased. Oct. 6, 13 and 20, 2021 MNAXLP

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