10-16-24 issue

Lewings celebrate 50 years of theatre

by Joanna Hudorovich for the Valley Journal

“Hello?” Cathy Gillhouse answered the phone last spring. “Oh, hi Karen. You want me to play M’Lynn in Steel Magnolias? What an honor. I’d love to.” Though invitation calls are routine for Karen and Neal Lewing as they plan out their season’s productions, to participate in a Port Polson Players play is an exciting accomplishment for area residents. While every year is special, 2024-25 is especially so as it marks the Players’ 50th season. With live theatre a significant aspect of Lake County culture, this 50th anniversary is one to be celebrated.

The Port Polson Players is the 5th oldest summer production company and the 4th oldest year-round company in the entire state. At the end of the summer season in 1983, the Lewings bought the Port Polson Players and quickly got to work putting on “A

Christmas Carol,” their very first production here that winter. Since then, the Players have put on 404 productions, most being musicals. Throughout the years Neal and Karen have composed 30 original scripts, including this year’s 50th anniversary season opener, “Meagher of the Sword.” The diversity of entertain-

ment they’ve provided the Mission Valley varies from classic comedies, dramas, Broadway musicals to Shakespeare and creative original plays.

Neal and Karen reminisced with laughter and nostalgia about the theater and the life they’ve faithfully dedicated to it. “Life is a series of circles, so many circles

intercept over the years.”

Neal mused, “Everything comes back around in one way or another.”

Neal, a devoted lover of all things music and drama, started performing in his small-town high school theatre. Two weeks after graduating, he went to Fort Peck. On the other hand, Karen was a big-city girl. When

she got hired by the Montana Repertory Theatre in 1979, she packed a bag, took her dog Charlie who had a clothing line for a leash, and hitchhiked from Seattle all the way to Helena. She also made her way to Fort Peck, where she met Neal. Three months later, they were married.   Karen knew she wanted to live and raise her family in the mountains rather than the city. Upon cresting the hill on Hwy. 93 for the very first time, she knew exactly where. Overlooking the lake, she looked at Neal in disbelief and said, “Let’s live here. This is exactly where we are going to live.”

After settling and starting a family, the Lewings and their dear friends Carmine and Todd Mowbray, who owned the Lake County Leader at the time, toured the region doing theatre. Their dedication to the performing arts was such that they toured all over Montana, Idaho

COURTESY PHOTO

Neal and Karen Lewing, left and center, pose with fellow actor Todd Mowbray, right, for a marketing photo for “Murder at the Howard Johnson’s,” a comedy they’ve performed several times over the years during their summer theatre season.

50 years of theatre

and Wyoming with their children. While putting on productions, local high school students would babysit the kids, laying out sleeping bags in the library and putting them to sleep while their parents performed.

The Lewings purchased a vintage log cabin with a view near Boettcher Park. The cabin’s lake view was the same one Karen fell in love with that pivotal afternoon they crested Polson hill. In the past 41 years, the Lewings have transformed the cabin into the beloved theatre it is today. They maintained the integrity of the 1938 historic structure while making upgrades to both the inside and outside of the building. They put in concrete staircases, patios, roofing, seating, heating, lighting, and so much love, sweat and tears. Today, Neal and Karen are managing and artistic directors of the theatre as well as secretary and administrative directors for the MVFA (Mission Valley

“Valley Full of Diamonds,” left, is the musical the Lewings wrote to celebrate Polson’s 75th and 100th anniversaries. “Sleeping Beauty,” above, was the first Children’s Theatre production the Lewings produced. “Who Gets the Lake Place,” right, was a summer theatre musical comedy while “Brigadoon,” below, was a community theatre musical produced in 2008.

Friends of the Arts). Having devoted their lives to Port Polson Players’ productions, the two have also continued to perform.

The Port Polson Players have brought live entertainment to the Mission Valley, while providing artistic opportunities to its many citizens – some of them persuaded to give live theatre a try. The Lewings are notorious for inspiring people of all professions, ages, and backgrounds to come audition for a play. The police chief of Polson, who participated

in roughly six shows, would say “This is my therapy.” The manager at Super 1 who got recruited to do a play, was so nervous beforehand, he recalled pacing and saying, “What am I doing? Why did I get myself involved in this? I’m not an actor.” Immediately after his first performance, he approached Neal with confidence and said, “So, when’s the next play?”  Additionally, in the “all over 50” cast of Oklahoma, a performer in her 70s got to cross an acting experience off her “bucket list.”

The Lewings have had up to

three generations perform together in their plays: grandparents, parents and kids. They’ve cast blind, deaf, handicapped and paraplegic actors as well as people of all walks of life, religions and political views. They tell everyone in their shows to leave their opinions at the door so the theatre can act as an equalizer, and bring actors together as a team.

“It is so rewarding seeing people who never thought they could do something like this, overcome their fears and surprise themselves,” Neal and Karen reflected. This is the power of small-town theatre.

To kick off their 50th anniversary season in a couple of weeks, the Lewings will open with their original musical, “Meagher of the Sword.” Neal has been immersed in all things Thomas Francis Meagher since 2009. His research led him to Notre Dame and Ireland and inspired his full-length musical. Montana’s first acting governor led a mysterious, rebellious and adventurous life, before he disappeared at Ft. Benton

in 1867. As most Montanans don’t know the true history of the sculpture outside the state capitol, the Lewings will perform the modified two-person tribute to the “man on the horse” as part of their signature “Education Through Entertainment” platform. Admission to “Meagher of the Sword” is free-will to raise awareness of the project. All are encouraged to attend.

Two months after Gillhouse got the phone call inviting her to perform, she stood on stage with a captivated audience wiping their tears. “WHY?” She wailed, acting as M’Lynn. “Lord, I wish I could understand!”  In the darkness of the theatre, spectators sat quietly in apparent empathetic connection. For 50 years, locals have appreciated live theatre – sometimes with laughter, sometimes with tears. When Karen reflected about her favorite things, she laughed and responded, “Bringing together the community … and standing ovations. Those are magic.”

from page 1

COURTESY PHOTOS

TUESDAY, NOV.

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MARTY HENSEL PHOTO moon over mountaintop ridge

CSKT urge EPA to honor commitments to tribes

EPA pressed to select remedy for CFAC that permanently protects Flathead River, native trout

FLATHEAD RESERVATION

— The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes sent a letter to the U.S. EPA on Tuesday, Oct. 8, voicing significant concerns about EPA’s preferred remedy to address toxic waste at the Columbia Falls superfund site. EPA’s proposed solution would build a slurry wall to contain the contamination on site. This plan would not treat or remove the contamination, but rather would leave it on site in the floodplain, allowing contamination

in the aquifer to continue leaching into the Flathead River for decades.

CSKT is urging the U.S. EPA to keep their commitments to tribes by working with CSKT to ensure the cleanup plan for Glencore’s Columbia Falls Aluminum Corporation Plant (CFAC) will adequately protect the Flathead River, the fish that depend on those waters, and the Tribes’ reserved fishing rights.

The letter asks the EPA to consult with the Tribes and evaluate proposed solutions to see which ones will meet Montana water quality standards for fish and aquatic life and protect the Tribes’ fishing and fish consumption rights in the Flathead River before making a formal decision on a remedy for the CFAC site.

“The EPA has made many commitments to

consult with Tribes and to honor Tribes’ treaty rights, including a specific commitment to engage in meaningful consultation with CSKT on the cleanup remedy for CFAC,” said Michael Dolson, Chairman of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. “Now it’s time for the EPA to turn those words into action and to work with the Tribes to ensure that the toxic waste at the CFAC site will not continue to harm the river, fish, and our treaty rights into the future,” stated Dolson.

In the Hellgate Treaty of 1855, the Tribes reserved the right to hunt, fish, and gather in our usual and accustomed places throughout the Tribes’ aboriginal territory, including the landscape negatively affected by the CFAC.

“We are concerned about the toxic contam-

inants that Glencore left in the ground at the site, and how the cyanide, fluoride, and heavy metals impact the Flathead River and native trout. We have treaty-reserved rights to hunt and fish in the waters and lands around the CFAC plant,” said Rich Janssen Jr., MBA, Natural Resources Department Head for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. “But if there are not enough fish to harvest, or if the fish have bioaccumulated too many toxins to be safe for human consumption, our treaty-reserved rights are meaningless. EPA must select a cleanup plan for CFAC that will permanently protect the Flathead River and the fish that live there, and ensure the river and fish survive and thrive for future generations,” Janssen continued.

The Flathead River is

important habitat for the endangered bull trout and threatened westslope cutthroat trout, two fish species of particular cultural importance to the Tribes. Cold water fisheries, and in particular salmonids, including bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout, are very sensitive to toxicity. CSKT’s letter asks the EPA to delay a decision on the remedy for the CFAC site until the agency conducts more studies on the impacts of the pollution from the aluminum smelting plant on the fisheries in the Flathead River and works with CSKT to determine which remedies will adequately address that pollution and protect the river and fisheries.

Legacy pollutants from CFAC are leaching into groundwater and, by EPA’s own science, are undisputedly flowing downgradient and dis-

charging into surface waters of the Flathead River and Cedar Creek. Investigations have proven that unnatural discharges of cyanide, arsenic, fluoride, nickel, selenium, benzo[a]pyrene, manganese, sodium, zinc, and copper, among others are being discharged to surface waters.

The EPA has identified toxic CFAC pollutants discharging to the Flathead River but has not looked closely at the effect of those discharges on sensitive aquatic life, including on the breeding grounds and essential habitat for fish, nor have they looked closely at whether CFAC pollutants can bioaccumulate in fish tissue and negatively impact fish consumption.

Pollution from Glencore’s Columbia Falls site is not the only pollution Glencore is responsible

see page 17

News from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes

Metzger inducted into Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame

News from MCHF and WHC

The Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame & Western Heritage Center (MCHF & WHC) announced on Oct. 9 their 17th class of inductions into the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame, which includes local cowboy Lonnie Paul Metzger. The inductees were chosen from a field of candidates nominated by the general public. Inductees are honored for their notable contributions to the history and culture of Montana.

“The Hall of Fame exists to honor those who have made an impact in their part of the state and represent Montana’s authentic Western heritage for future generations,” said DuWayne Wilson, MCHF & WHC president. “Our volunteer trustees across Montana vote on nominations that come from the district in which they reside. This process gives the local communities a strong voice in who will represent them in the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame.”

The MCHF & WHC board of directors has designated 12 trustee districts across the state from which up to 20 trustees may be appointed. Nomination criteria established by the board for the Class of 2025 inductions allowed for the election of one Living Inductee and one Legacy Inductee from each of the 12 dis-

“The Hall of Fame exists to honor those who have made an impact in their part of the state and represent Montana’s authentic Western heritage for future generations.”

tricts.

District 10 (Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, & Sanders Counties): Living: Lonnie Paul Metzger of Ronan; Legacy: None Submitted. Lonnie Paul Metzger

What cowboy would consider a complete whiff to be the best loop he ever threw? The vast majority would never consider a missed loop to be a positive outcome. On the contrary, most who agonize over a missed loop, wonder what might have been, at the jackpot or branding, had they caught. There is, however, one top hand that would beg to differ. If you asked him about the best loop he ever threw, he would tell you straight up that he missed the bull he was

trying to snag that day and Thank God for it!

You see that day he was on a pony sitting in a notso-quality-built saddle. Had he caught, then dallied off; there is no telling what kind of wreck would have ensued. It is this type of philosophy, attitude, and sense of humor that sets Lonnie Metzger apart from the rest of us saddle tramps.

Lonnie Paul Metzger was born on January 24, 1953. He grew up on the family ranch where he still hangs his hat today with his wife Tammy. His children Dee Dee, Cody, Trent, Ryan, and Amber all reside in Montana, having grown up with the same values practiced by their dad. Lonnie has

lived the Western way of life through his means of earning a living, the way he treats others, and his love of family, agriculture, and the great outdoors. A lifelong resident of the Mission Valley, Lonnie has always been involved with agriculture. He has put up thousands of tons of hay over the years, but his real passion comes about from raising good cattle and working those cattle horseback. Over the years Lonnie has managed cattle and yearlings on his own ranch and on outside grazing leases. His understanding of quality grass has helped him earn a reputation as a stockman who folks will lease their place based on a handshake. They trust the fences will be fixed, the weeds will be sprayed, and the land will be cared for as if it was his own. Lonnie studies new grazing practices knowing it’s never too late to learn ways to improve. He is dedicated to proper weed control in order to improve pastures. In the Mission Valley, he’s one of the guys you call when

looking for pasture or hay. If he can’t help you directly, he will know who can.

Along with cattle, there has always been a horse on the Metzger place. A horse to some is just a tool. Lonnie views them as a partner. For over 30 years he and Tammy raised horses from two prominent stallions bred to their mares. Colts were ridden and trained as ranch horses for working conditions as well as the arena. Whether it be for doctoring cattle in a pasture or team roping at a jackpot, horses from the Metzger string were bred correctly then trained to go to work. Lonnie believes horsemanship goes hand in hand with stockmanship. Lonnie admires the quality use of the horse to get ranch work done. He encourages a smooth, steady approach to handling livestock rather than being hell bent for election. Whether it’s doctoring, gathering, trailing, or branding cattle the approach is always the same when Lonnie has anything to say about it: slow and smooth is fast and easy.

When it comes to branding at Lonnie’s, it’s the kids who rope. The kids get to learn horsemanship and rope handling from patient seasoned ropers. Parents assist them and the adults work the ground no matter how long it takes. Lonnie sees the importance of passing on skills to the younger generation. He loves to see kids who want to be good with a rope and horse. He enjoys helping others of all ages, but he has always been so good to kids.

Besides raising cattle, there were other ways Lonnie found to quench his thirst for living in God’s creation. He worked for outfitters such as Bud for whom he packed mules and guided hunters. During one fall, Lonnie and Mike Smith worked through hunting season and then stayed in the Bob Marshall to trap beaver. It was nothing for temperatures to drop below zero and snow to get deep. That particular season they didn’t come out until December 15 by way of snowshoes. Along the highway of life Lonnie rode bulls in the Montana Rodeo Association (MRA) for 10 years although when asked how long he rode his response is “about 6 seconds.” He’s team roped and tried his hand at calf roping. He was one of the founders of the Western see page 7

COURTESY PHOTO

Lonnie Paul Metzger

- DuWayne Wilson, MCHF & WHC president

page 6

Montana Ranch Roping events which have been held since 1999 and is still going strong. Lonnie is an integral part of the success of the Ranch Ropings. His horse has been picked as the Top Rope Horse and he’s been named the Top Hand, by his fellow ranch ropers, multiple times over the years. The award is voted on to recognize physical skills but to also acknowledge the intangibles respected by cowboys. He has been recognized for the award because of his skills with his horse and his rope as well as his work behind the scenes providing livestock, securing prizes, hauling cattle, and judging events. Lonnie’s peers respect him for all that and making stockmanship a priority. At the county fair you could find Lonnie helping behind the scenes sorting hogs for hours. He ran the Pioneer Days City Slicker Rodeo for Mission Valley kids for many years. Hundreds of kids got to experience the mutton busting, chicken chase, greased pig contest, and stick horse rodeo all due to his organizing the livestock and drumming up donations and labor to run the one day event which is still popular today.

When visiting and listening to Lonnie, one hears of the influences in his life as a cowboy, horseman, and person. Names like Faye Haynes, Bill Gardner, Bud Smith, Jon Conco, and Tony Garcia all had a hand developing Lonnie’s approach to life and isn’t it funny how life comes full circle? It is now Lonnie who influences a person’s philosophy toward grazing. It is now Lonnie who influences a young man’s approach to horsemanship and handling a rope. Anyone who has interacted with Lonnie would tell you his patience, humor, and experience are priceless! They are grateful for the wisdom and/or jokes passed to them along the way.

at the VFW and anonymously giving money to the school lunch program to pay for a kid’s meals. Lonnie’s the one who makes sure a young high school girl will be able to afford a prom dress. His attitude is contagious with folks who observe him as well as those who call him a friend. Kids look up to him. Friends can count on him. Family is blessed by him. What else could be more important than that for a Hall of Famer?

More than any other trait, it’s Lonnie’s treatment of his fellow man that epitomizes the Western way of doing things. He is the guy who literally would give you the shirt off his back. Lonnie is the first to offer help when a neighbor is in trouble and to visit a sick friend. He’s behind the donation of ground beef

The mission of the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame & Western Heritage Center is to “honor our cowboy way of life, American Indian cultures and collective Montana Western heritage.” We exist to serve as a resource to all who wish to see this way of life passed forward to the next generation. To learn more, visit www.montanacowboyfame.org

Job Creator

Tim founded Bridger Aerospace—an aerial firefighting company, created hundreds of Montana jobs, and fights wildfires to protect

Pumpkins, barrel train rides, baked goods, more offered at Monter’s pumpkin patch

Story and

by Joanna Hudorovich for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — Mission Valley residents can experience a variety of outdoor, autumn activities at Zachary Monter’s you-pick pumpkin patch. Located near St. Ignatius right off US Hwy. 93 to the west, the Monters offer over 30 varieties of pumpkins to choose from including medium-sized decor pumpkins, white pumpkins or jack-o-lantern carving pumpkins. After hand-picking their own pumpkins from the patch, visitors can hop on a barrel train ride around the grounds. The ride is offered via tractor that pulls six 55-gallon drums, a caboose and a car for parents. Visitors may also wander through a greenhouse full of Cacti, plants, flowers and herbs. Fresh vegetables, edible winter squash and fresh baked goods are also available for purchase. The pumpkin patch is open Friday and Saturday.

Week 5 Mack Days fishing results announced

News from CSKT

FLATHEAD LAKE -- Anglers have completed week 5 of the 2024 Fall Mack Days fishing event on Flathead Lake. They are on the downhill side of the nine-week long competition with just four weekends left. The event ends on Sunday, Nov. 3. The Mack Days fishing events are sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes with up to $200,000 in cash and prizes awarded to anglers who enter at least one or more lake trout entries.

A total of 10,779 lake trout entries have been turned in. Monday to Thursday entries came to 2,153. High entries were on Monday - Marty Herek of Polson 7; on Tuesday - Bob Stewart of Kalispell 27; on Wednesday - Patrick Casey of Townsend 16; and on Thursday - Jerry Benson of Plains 46. The Friday to Sunday entries came to 8,626. High daily totals were: Jerry Benson on Friday - 75 and

Saturday - 65; Mike Benson of Lonepine on Sunday - 48. Totals from every day combine to give a total for the bonus dollars anglers receive at the end of the event. Raging winds hit the lake Friday afternoon like they did everywhere else. These seasoned anglers know when to get off the

water and all had their feet on the ground except one eventually was also off the water. Waves were some of the worst we have seen from the shore. Parts of the lake saw nothing but huge frothy white caps all the way across. Total entries for Friday were 468, Saturday 545, and Sunday

558.

There is now a Largest Lake Trout entry and it was a beauty. Ryker Bair of Helena turned in a 36.25” and 20.05 pounds lake trout. Winner of the heaviest lake trout at the end of the event receives a $500 award sponsored by Bretz RV and Marine of Missoula.

The Smallest Lake Trout entries got smaller. Dan Deutschman of Fergus Falls, Minnesota, turned in a 153mm (6”) lake trout. Jerry Benson turned in the other small lake trout with a 149mm (5.75”) entry. “Jonny Cash,” the $10,000 tagged lake trout, is waiting for someone to reel him in. There are also 3-$5,000 trout and 5-$1,000 trout plus over 9,000 trout with values from $100-$500 who are lurking in the depths of Flathead Lake. Turning in $100 tagged lake trout were: Jeremy Williams of Missoula, Jim Flinchbaugh of Kalispell, and Mike Colyer of Missoula.

Jerry Benson is leading the Top Twenty with 936 trout - 75 Friday, 65 Saturday, and 30 Saturday. Mike Benson is in second place with 878 trout - 41, 35, 48. In third place is David McDaniel of Polson with 576 trout - 28, 51, 37. In fourth place is Terry Krogstad of Kalispell with 459 trout - 11, 44, 33. In fifth place is Richard Kreis of Huson with 458 trout - 41, 23, 10. In sixth place is Larry Ashwell of Missoula with 398 trout - 19, 39, 24. In seventh place is Jack Kirkland of Lolo with 377 trout - 18, 22, 2. In eighth place is Larry Karper of Florence with 363, 0, 0, 19. In ninth place is Laurie Kries of Huson with 334 trout - 0,10, 20. In tenth place is Patrick Casey of Townsend with 318 trout - 38, 51, 28. Eleventh place is held by Julie Perkins of Kalispell with 290; in 12th place is Dan Deutschman with 267; in 13th place is Felix Gauci of Stevensville with 257; in 14th place is see page 9

photos

COURTESY PHOTO

Ryker Bair of Helena and his father Justin Bair of Dillon tried the Mack Days Fishing Event the fifth weekend and landed this 36.25” 20.05lb. lake trout. It is the first entry in the large fish category.

Fall Mack Days

from page 8

Carey Hauser of Lakeside with 211; in 15th place is Bryan Long of Columbia Falls with 172; in 16th place is Joe Minnehan of Kalispell with 152. Steve Mack of Helena is in 17th place with 145; in 18th place is Mark McMillin of Missoula with 143; in 19th place is Lyndon Lee of British Columbia with 129; and in 20th place is Gaul Grove of Wyoming, Illinois, with 121.

Huson’s Lady Angler Laurie Kreis is still in 1st with 334, 2nd in that category is Julie Perkins of Kalispell with 290, 3rd Debby Sacchi of Thompson Falls with 74, 4th Kim Mack of Helena with 29,

and 5th Lorinda Freeman of Polson 25.

James Kurchera of Kalispell still leads the 13-17 category and Blaine Helvey of Thompson Falls is leading the 12 & Under with 13, Paisley Helvey has 12, Bear Yarrow of Frenchtown is at 6, Eli Yang-, Bucky Yarrow, Tayzee Whimper of Frenchtown have 2, Zander Oliver of Missoula has 2, and Payton Kuchera has turned in 1.

The Golden Oldies are lead by Mike Benson with 878, Terry Krogstad is at 459, Larry Ashwell has 398, Jack Kirkland 377, and Larry Karper 363. Winning weekend prizes were: Larry Karper-$200, Richard Kreis, Justin Bair of Dillon, Pat-

rick Casey, and Jerry Benson all with $100.

Jens Gran of Polson won the Bucket of Fish on Saturday with a huge bucket of 31.75 lbs of lake trout-4 under 30”, 2nd Rick Skates of Big Arm with 26.75, Kreis boat with 26.15 came in 3rd, 4th Bair boat with 25.05, and 5th Sacchi boat of Thompson Falls with 19.55 lbs of lake trout.

It is not too late to come out and try your luck catching lake trout and getting in your chances for winning in the lottery drawings. Enter up until the last day.

Go to www.mackdays. com for information.

Good luck and tight lines everyone! vj

Deborah Hanson, Treasurer; P.O. Box 414, Billings, MT 59103

WHAT IS CI-126?

TOP FOUR OPEN PRIMARY

CI-126 changes primary elections so that all candidates, regardless of party, appear on a single ballot in June and all voters are able to choose between them. The top four candidates, regardless of party, move on to the November election.

BETTER CHOICES ON THE BALLOT

Instead of having your choices restricted because you have to choose just one party’s ballot in the primary, open primaries give you better choices and more voice in our elections. Candidates will still list their party affiliation as Republican, Democrat, or third-party, but all candidates appear on one ballot, and you can vote for your top choice, regardless of party.

GREATER ACCOUNTABILITY IN TAXPAYER FUNDED ELECTIONS

Requiring candidates to work to earn our votes will make them more accountable to “we the people,” not party bosses and special interests.

In Montana, we want to be able to vote for our neighbors, not just a political party.

Vote YES on CI-126 so you have the freedom to vote for the person, not the party.

valley views

Vote no on CI-128

For 23 years Robert G. Natelson served as Professor of Law at the University of Montana.  Professor Natelson is one of America’s best known constitutional scholars and author, whose constitutional research has been cited repeatedly by justices at the US Supreme Court, federal appeals courts, and at least 16 state supreme courts.  Professor Natelson recently reviewed CI-128.  The following are all his words and excerpts of his conclusions regarding this bill. “CI-128 does not comply with the ‘separate vote’ rule and forces voters to vote ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ on a measure that is really

Valley View

not a single proposal, but a bundle of proposals – and some of these issues extend well beyond merely protecting the right to abortion.”

Melody Thiel, Ronan

“CI-128 is a badly written, misleading, and risky proposal. Its style does not fit into that of the Montana Constitution. The amendment should define important words and phrases.  It should focus on the issue at hand, and not venture into other areas.  The wording should be crafted to avoid hidden or unintended consequences.”

“While abortion rights generally are thought of as women’s rights, CI128 nowhere mentions women.  CI-128 is not a

CI 128 doesn’t give blanket immunity for malpractice

Editor,

Truth in advertising should apply to these letters.

For example last week a Senate District 3 representative decried CI 128 saying its language gives blanket immunity to abortion providers for malpractice, etc.

If he would read what he wrote - and was printed, the cited bill clearly does not allow

‘women’s rights’ measure. It refers only to ‘pregnant patients’ and ‘persons,’ and employs the pronoun ‘their’ instead of ‘her.’

This language is odd. First, it is a biologic fact that only women and girls become pregnant.

Second, the Montana Constitution specifically distinguishes between ‘men’ and ‘women,’ and good drafting is to use pre-existing constitutional language.”

“So why did the drafters of CI-128 flout biology, constitutional usage, and popular understanding by including this usage? One likely goal was to leverage this language in future litigation, presumably to claim constitutional status for ‘gender fluidity.’  It threatens to provoke endless lawsuits,

inept or medical malpractice to be ignored.  Current safeguards in that area remain.

His remarks are clearly voided by the content he provided but my guess is his intent and hope was that he would instill fear and defeat a bill not to his liking.

His error was quoting the bill which clearly only cites the right to discuss the pros and cons of an abortion with someone contemplating their choice.

The bill has no mention or intent of extending rights to a

from which only lawyers will benefit.”

“The upshot is that those who vote for CI-128 are not voting merely for reproductive rights. They are offering constitutional support for biological males to invade woman sports, and for surgical mutilation of children.”

“The implications of (CI-128’s) wording range beyond the abortion decision.  This wording threatens the integrity of Montana families and exposes children to abusive practices by people outside the family. It allows children and mentally incompetent people to make health care decisions without the consent — or even the input — of their parents and guardians.”

“CI-128 gives life-and-

physician where ineptitude or malpractice occurred.

Trying to use fear, misinformation, and outright lies about what is going on works when you continue to direct you information to those without the ability or interest in differences in opinions.

It does not fly with those of us who listen to both sides and make choices based on honor, truth, purpose and effects our vote to what may help bring our nation forward and keep it from self destruction.

death power to ‘treating health care professionals,’ but never defines who they are. CI-128 contains no requirement that the ‘treating healthcare professional’ be competent or even licensed. It makes certain health and safety laws unenforceable.”

If Supreme Court justices from all over our country use Professor Natelson’s research to determine the outcome of cases, why wouldn’t we use his research to understand CI-128?  Professor Natelson also said that CI-128 uses “language foreign to the rest of the document - and inappropriate for any state Constitution.  If placed in the Montana Constitution, CI-128 would look like a festering sore on an otherwise healthy body.”

But I do agree, women in Montana deserve better service than you seem to provide.

Richard Bell

Polson

Abortion debacle continues

Editor,

The viewing public is inundated with ad after ad after ad urging any sane person to vote for enshrining abortion into the Montana Constitution. What is

see page 11

Stand against this bad legislation and vote “No” on CI-128.

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 regarding candidates in the Nov. 5 general election will not be printed after the Oct. 23 issue in order to allow candidates time for response. 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 noon Friday to publish the following week. Opinions expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the newspaper.

striking is that the proponents only bring up time, after time, after time that dastardly pro-lifers are cruel and awful human beings for ignoring those who’ve been raped, are victims of incest or the mother’s life is endangered. And that is awful.

What they don’t tell you is rape, incest and the health of the mother account for at the outside 5% of the abortions in America. And you know what, they don’t tell you that the vast majority of Americans support a woman’s right to choose abortion under those 5% of circumstances. Shame on you folks.

For the other 95% your ads should read, “I have a right to murder my unborn child because I was irresponsible and don’t want the inconvenience of raising a child to interfere with my life.” Because that’s the truth.

You have been given the greatest gift God could give, to bring a child into the world to nurture and care for and

carry on your legacy but you don’t want to be responsible for your own actions in 95% of the cases.

Ed Kugler Kalispell

Let’s vote to protect human life

Editor,

My Montana education taught me that rights go hand in hand with responsibilities. For instance, the right to vote includes the responsibility to be an informed voter.

In 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court established a woman’s legal right to abortion. The pivotal question: When does life begin? After enormous debate, the Supreme Court chose fetal viability to answer this question. In the 50 years since Roe v Wade, countless medical advancements significantly improved and extended fetal viability. Hence in 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected the trimester framework to establish fetal viability and found

no constitutional right to abortion. However, the Court empowered the 50 states to decide when life begins. As it should.

Here in Montana, we value less federal interference. Incidentally, total contributions to oppose CI-128: $191,362. Total contributions to support CI-128: $16,482,666.

[Ballotpedia] One wonders how much of this is out-of-state interference.

Please read the full text of CI-128. Its drafters apparently failed to do their homework, because this constitutional amendment is based on “fetal viability”. If CI-128 passes, it’ll be tied up in court from its inception. And, our courts are already overburdened.

Roe v Wade (1973), defined life’s beginning as “the interim point at which the fetus becomes ‘viable,’ that is, potentially able to live outside the mother’s womb, albeit with artificial aid.”

CI-128 (2024) states “Fetal viability means the point in pregnancy when, in the good faith judgment of a treating health

see page 12

PAID POLITICAL CONTENT

Lowering property taxes & protecting public access are top issues in Montana

By Ryan Busse

I’ve put more than 100,000 miles on Montana’s highways over the past year, listening to people in every corner of our state. There are two issues that come up everywhere I go: The first is Gov. Greg Gianforte’s record high property taxes and the sky-high cost of living here. The second is the governor’s dangerous war on access to our public land and wildlife.

While the cost of living in Montana has skyrocketed, Gov. Gianforte made the problem worse by raising property taxes by as much as 111%. Don’t let him point his finger at anyone else. The governor is responsible for authorizing the 1.35% residential property tax rate that all homeowners (and renters) have to pay.

What’s worse, while Gov. Gianforte’s tax increase was pricing hardworking Montanans out of their homes, he handed out tax breaks to millionaires and billionaires like himself. In fact, Gov. Gianforte is the only homeowner in his neighborhood who is paying less in property taxes on his privately owned mansion, not more.

Lowering your property taxes is my Day One priority as Montana’s next governor. It’s as simple as lowering the tax rate—something Gianforte refuses to do.

But the governor’s unaffordable Montana isn’t the only issue on Montanans’ minds. Gianforte has spent 15 years weakening Montana’s public lands. As a wealthy property owner, he sued the people of Montana to block public access to a river running through his property.

As a congressman, he championed

legislation that was the single biggest rollback of protected public lands in Montana history.

And over the past four years as governor, Gianforte has deliberately dismantled the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP). He fought to outlaw “corner-crossing,” the long-established right for hunters and anglers to step from one corner of public land to another without even leaving a footprint on private land. Last year in Region Six, under Gianforte’s watch, more mule deer tags went to out-ofstaters than to Montanans.

This isn’t a Democrat-versus-Republican issue; it’s a question about what we Montanans want for the future of our state.

Do we want a Montana where wealthy out-of-staters automatically get better access to wildlife and the right to lock ordinary Montanans out of our own public lands? If so, Gianforte may be your candidate. Or do we want a Montana where everyone is equal when it comes to accessing public lands and wildlife? If so, vote for me, Ryan Busse, to stop Gianforte from his war on our public lands and wildlife.

As a lifelong angler, hunter and firearms executive, I know how infuriating it is to watch Gianforte turn the Montana we love into a playground for wealthy out-of-staters.

Lowering property taxes and ensuring the public has access to the land and water they own shouldn’t be a tough ask of any governor. Unfortunately, it is Greg Gianforte’s legacy. I’m running for governor to get your Montana back, because we can’t afford four more years of his dangerous, failed leadership.

care professional and based on the particular facts of the case, there is a significant likelihood of the fetus’s sustained survival outside the uterus without the application of extraordinary medical measures.”

The total of abortions due to incest, rape, fetal or mother health is less than 8%. [Guttmacher]

In 2021, 24% of women had their 2nd abortion and 19% had their 3rd or more abortion. [CDC] That’s 43% of women having more than one abortion. Hey, if it’s legal it’s okay, right?

These days, cats and dogs have more rights than humans. Over 60% of U.S. animal shelters have no-kill policies. Let’s vote responsibly to protect human life from its beginning.

Tam Newby Polson

Commissioner raises should be approved by citizens

Editor,

As a Lake County taxpayer I don’t think it is fair to the citizens of Lake County who are struggling to make ends meet that our county commissioners are allowed to give themselves a pay raise and cut money from the sheriff’s office budget that pays for the schools SROs whose job is to protect the students at the schools’ sporting

events. I think that if the commissioners want a raise they should bring it before the citizens to vote on it, I mean it’s the citizens who can say yes or no to the commissioners raise. Now the taxpayers are paying for a $ 7 million, 3 story annex that will house the election office and judges’ offices. I also believe that the county commissioners should try to live like every citizen in Lake County does working from 9-5 Monday through Friday and see how hard it is to make ends meet.

Lynn Delecaris  St. Ignatius

Support Judge Dan Wilson for the Montana Supreme Court

This fall, we have the opportunity to send an experienced and fair-minded judge to the Montana Supreme Court. District Court Judge Dan Wilson has the background, courtroom experience and temperament to be an excellent justice. Prior to serving for the last eight years as a district court judge, he was a prosecutor and worked in private practice. His private practice included a wide range of civil issues, and he also represented people charged with crimes in state and federal courts. He has over 30 years’ experience in civil and criminal law both as a practitioner and recently as a judge.

Judge Wilson’s Montana roots run deep. His great grandfather homesteaded in eastern Montana and his grandfather served as a city judge in Malta and justice of the peace for Phillips County.

I’ve practiced in front of Judge Wilson and found him to be a fair-minded and hard-working jurist. As a Montana Supreme Court justice, he would follow the law and would not legislate from the bench. Please join me in supporting Judge Dan Wilson for the Montana Supreme Court.

Jack Jenks Missoula

Abortion is already protected

Editor,

Proponents of CI-128 frame the initiative as the only way to protect abortion rights. But let’s be clear: Montanans already have strong protections for abortion under our state constitution. Since the Armstrong v. State case in 1999, Montana’s Supreme Court held that the state Constitution protects a woman’s right to an abortion before fetal viability, based on the privacy clause. And despite recent legislative efforts to impose restrictions—such as banning abortions after 20 weeks—Montana courts have consistently struck down all these laws as unconstitutional, firmly securing abortion access

across the state.

Instead of safeguarding existing rights, CI128’s vague and radical language would remove important protections that many Montanans, including pro-choice supporters, agree with— like limits on late-term abortions and the state’s ability to regulate procedures for the safety of both the mother and the unborn child.

The initiative’s language allows any individual to perform an abortion without state-level standards or oversight to define who is qualified to perform abortions. Additionally, CI-128 specifies a patient has no legal recourse when care is incompetent, leaving women vulnerable to substandard care and accountability for those inflicting harm.

Stigmatizing words suggest that abortion access is under immediate threat in order to elicit fear and support for the initiative. In reality, CI128 doesn’t protect abortion rights, but introduces new dangers by removing widely endorsed, mindful regulations that protect women.

Montanans deserve better than emotionally charged rhetoric pushing reckless changes. We value thoughtful decision-making based on facts, not fear, and CI128 should be treated the same way.

Rep. Amy Regier, Kalispell

SAFE Harbor receives Mary Kay Foundation award

News from SAFE Harbor

Violence is a societal challenge around the world. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, domestic violence is the third leading cause of homelessness among families. In California alone, the cost of domestic violence annually is $73.7 billion for health care, lost productivity and income, and criminal justice and response program spending, according to the Newcomb Institute. This is about 2% of the gross domestic product for California. Within Lake County and the Flathead Reservation, the impact of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence has consequences crossing generations. Recognizing the need for support to survivors and their families, the Mary Kay Foundation selected SAFE Harbor as the State of Montana Shelter Grant Recipient with a $20,000 award.

“We are thrilled to be chosen for this special honor,” said SAFE Harbor Executive Director Brandi Clark. “Mary Kay’s support of survivors across the United States is directly helping those most in need.”

SAFE Harbor is the violence services agency for the region between Missoula and Kalispell. The program provides shelter, transitional housing, civil legal services, advocacy, counseling, group therapy, education, a batterer intervention program, transportation, food, gas, household goods, a 24-hour hotline, and referrals. All services are free.

“A survivor often has ongoing trauma from the experience,” Clark said. “That is why the counseling we have can be so important. Even if someone experienced violence in the past they can still access our services.”

Annually, the Mary Kay Foundation awards funding to at least one program providing shelter to those dealing with violence in all 50 states. The funding is unrestricted.

“Having these funds will help with filling in the gaps for services,” Clark explained.

“Most grant funds we receive are restricted to see page 13

very specific purposes. Having this support, that can be used as needed, to best serve clients is wonderful.”

The Mary Kay Foundation was established by founder Mary Kay Ash to invest in breakthrough cancer research to find cures for cancer affecting women and to end domestic violence. Since its establishment in 1996, the foundation has awarded over $100 million in support of these priorities.

“Mary Kay Ash was a lady who cared about others and the creation of the foundation is having an ongoing impact on the lives of survivors of violence,” Clark said.

Along with their core

services, SAFE Harbor also operates Sister Sallie’s Thrift Store which is both a training location for those seeking employment and a revenue stream supporting direct client needs.

“This financial support is so important to our work. Of course, we couldn’t carry out our programming without volunteers,” Clark said. “Volunteers help with the hotline and at the thrift store. We are so thankful for the time they give and continue to seek new volunteers.”

Each year, the Mary Kay Foundation awards their shelter grants as part of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. First observed in October 1981, as a national “Day of Unity,” Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) is

held each October as a way to unite advocates across the nation in their efforts to end domestic violence, to raise awareness about domestic violence, and to help communities identify prevention strategies.

“We appreciate all the support from our friends and neighbors in the community that is provided year-round,” Clark said. “Local assistance, combined with funds from programs like Mary Kay, enable us to offer victim-centered services to survivors and their children.”

For those needing assistance, call SAFE Harbor at 406-676-0992 or the hotline at 406-676-0800. Information is also available at www.safeharbormt.org.

Montana Department of Commerce launches agritourism grants program

News from the Montana Department of Commerce

HELENA — The Montana Department of Commerce announced today the launch of a new grant program designed to support rural and tribal agricultural businesses and promote economic diversification across the state. The funding is through Commerce’s Agritourism Grants Program.

“This new grant program will help Montana farmers and ranchers expand operations by developing new or enhancing established agritourism revenue streams. Our goal is to create agritourism opportunities with a focus on rural, under-visited and tribal locations

and generate tourism revenue that will benefit local economies across the state,” said Paul Green, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce.

The Montana Department of Commerce invites all interested individuals to register and join a webinar on Oct. 15. Participants will learn more about how to apply for an agritourism grant, scoring criteria and timelines.

In 2023, the Montana Legislature authorized Commerce to establish the Agritourism Grants Program by enacting Senate Bill 540.

All applications for this program must be submitted by midnight on Oct. 24, 2024. For more information, visit commerce.mt.gov.

sports shots

BOB GUNDERSON / GUNDY ARTISTRY PHOTO

Polson Pirate soccer player Edgar Vejez-Petek fires on the goal during a game played last weekend against Corvallis.

BOB GUNDERSON / GUNDY ARTISTRY PHOTOS

Polson Lady Pirate Sammy Rensvold hits into a Browning block during a match played last weekend. Left: Polson cross country runner David DiGiallonardo leads the boys race at the Mission Duals.

TIM

SHEEHY WANTS TO EN D MEDICAR E AND RAISE HEALTH CARE COSTS

Jon took on Big Pharma through his Inflation Reduction Act, which capped the price of insulin and gave Medicare the power to negotiate lower drug prices for seniors.

Jon has been a lifelong champion for Medicare and has always fought against benefit cuts. That’s why seniors groups and Republicans across Montana have announced their support for Jon Tester.

seniors

Polson

News from Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON - The Polson Senior Center’s annual membership campaign is underway. We are exceeding expectations and are looking at a record year again with $15 dues expiring August 2025.

An Office Manager position is available. Involves basic data entry and bookkeeping, secretarial and management, skills, scheduling, etc. Wage DOE.

We need sheet 18 x 24 pans of food service quality. If any are in your garage, we could use them here.

Sign up at the center for computer/cell phone literacy classes.  Bring your grandparents. Welcome to the 21st century.

Sees Candy is here at the center. Due to increases in production costs, prices have taken a substantial increase. Prices are posted at the center. The price will be below retail (below on-line + shipping costs). Last year we made $200. We offer this as a service to our seniors. Sees Candy makes great gifts.

Activities:

- Thursday, Oct.17: Medicare drug plan review at noontime; free information.

- Monday, Oct. 21: Baily Insurance representative on site for

information on Medicare plans.

- Bowling: “no-tap” Tuesdays 1-3 p.m. Join any time. Call Don at 406-885-5617.

- Carving Wood for beginners: Wednesdays & Fridays at 1 p.m. Join any week.

- Bridge: Inquire at the center.

- Board or card games: Wednesdays, 12:30-3 p.m. Bring your friends.

- VSO (Veterans Service Officer:) first Friday and third Tuesday of each month 9 a.m.-noon; walk-ins OK

- Memory Café by Angel Care: first Tuesday of each month; cognitive support group

- Bingo: Fridays open at 5:30 p.m., play at 6 p.m.; “Playing Card” bingo first and third Wednesdays of each month at 6 p.m.

- Exercise: sitting or standing, M-W-F, 10:30–11:30 a.m. video-assisted

- Pinochle: Thursdays 12:30-3 p.m.; 3, 4 or 5 handed; walk-ins welcome; Mondays “nopass- partners” rules; all are welcome to join in; we coach; 15 players last week

- Pool: Open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. MENU (subject to change): lunch ($5 donation) from 11:45 a.m.12:30 p.m. We will deliver meals if you qualify.

- Wednesday, Oct. 16: National Boss Daychef salad, focaccia, fluff

- Thursday, Oct. 17: meatloaf, baked spud, green beans, green salad, German chocolate cake

- Friday, Oct. 18: biscuits ‘n gravy, sausage, peas, oranges, blonde brownies

- Monday, Oct. 21: drug/insurance plan review, cream veggie soup, ham salad sandwich, 5-cup salad, cookie

- Tuesday, Oct. 22: chicken enchilada, refried beans, Frito salad, lemon bars, Margaritas not provided.

- Wednesday, Oct. 23: Shepherd’s pie (beef, not lamb), roll, baked peach, fresh salad, 4-layer dessert

- Thursday, Oct. 24: beef in a blanket, tots, honey carrots, coleslaw, cookie

Friday, Oct. 25: birthday dinner for lunch

- roast pork with all the fixings, carrot cake; special guest speaker

Our Community Center is located at 504 Third Ave. E; open from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. weekdays. Call us at 406-883-4735; email: polsonseniorcenter@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook.

Ronan

By Donna Daniels for the Valley Journal

RONAN - Mission

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

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

Our menu is the following:

- Wednesday, Oct. 16: taco bar, salad, dessert

- Friday, Oct. 18: Salisbury steak, salad, dessert

- Monday, Oct. 21: pizza, salad, dessert

- Wednesday, Oct. 23: soup, sandwiches, salad, dessert

We are trying to find someone who is interested in cooking and dishwashing. It would be a part-time position. If you or someone you know is interested, contact Donna at 406-676-2371.

Our bazaar is coming up. It will be held on Nov. 2 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. If you would like to rent a table, call the center at 406-676-2371.

We are always looking for new members. Come in and give us a try.

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

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

We also have a pool table available Mondays,

Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Come join the fun. Everyone is welcome to join our meals, no matter what age you are.

We ask for a $7 donation for our Monday, Wednesday and Friday meals and $10 for our Sunday meal.

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

St Ignatius

By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS - A big thank you to all that came and bought things at our yard and bake sale and to all that donated items for us to sell. We appreciate out community members.

We have a “Nurse on the Go” that is coming to out center to help with toenails. She charges $25 a session and it takes about 30-minutes. She will be at the St. Ignatius Senior Center on Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. If interested, call and leave a message. She trims nails and smooth corns and calluses. She is licensed and insured.

We are looking for a Site Manager to work eight to 12 hours a week. Menu: -Friday, Oct.18: noon

- chicken, mac & cheese, peas, carrot sticks, corn bread, cinnamon rolls -Tuesday, Oct. 22: noon - bison Salisbury steak, potatoes, beans, pears, roll, dessert -Friday, Oct. 25: noon - pork stir fry, rice, peas, fruit, churros

If you would like a take-out meal, call 406745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays and by 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Mealtimes are listed with menu. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the center. Remember everyone is welcome at our meals. Come enjoy a delicious meal and good conversation.

Our St. Ignatius Senior Center is open to people renting it. If you are interested, call 406745-4462 and leave a message. We will call you back with the information you need. If you have question about obtaining Elder Commodities call or stop by for information and an application.

Gently Yoga is held on Wednesdays from 1-2:15 p.m. If you are interested, call Bonnie Kiser at 406253-0177. Her rate is five sessions for $65. The Taiji exercise program will be held on Mondays at 1 p.m. Kory Gunderson is the instructor. For any question call Kory at 406-3610304. The charge is $12 a session.

births

Keilonee BigSam-Adams

POLSON — Keilonee Jo BigSam-Adams was born on Sept. 19, 2024, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. She was 19 inches long and weighed 6 pounds, 12.3 ounces. Keilonee’s mother is Bradee BigSam of Polson. Keilonee’s maternal grandparents are Brad and Rachael BigSam. Maternal great-grandparents are Rod and Peggy VanNess and Nelson BigSam.

Lane Jones

POLSON — Lane Ethan Jones was born on Sept. 30, 2024, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. He was 19.25 inches long and weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces. Lane’sparents are Jacey and Cole Jones of Pablo. Lane’s maternal grandparents are Phil and Jill Mclendon and Scott Sawyer. Maternal great-grandparents are Brent and Jeanette Mickelson. Paternal grandparents are Darren andGeorgia Jones. Paternal great-granparents are Maureen and Greg Joens and Floyd and Joann Adams.

for in Montana waters. Glencore, the company that owns CFAC, also now owns five coal mines that are polluting Montana waters. The five open-pit coal mines, located just across the border with Canada in the Elk Valley in Southeast British Columbia, are actively leaching pollutants into the Kootenai River and Koocanusa Reservoir in Montana. One of the pollutants from the mines has reached toxic levels in fish in Koocanusa Reservoir, raising alarms for fish health and continued fish populations and also impacting CSKT’s treaty rights

in the watershed. Glencore purchased the mines from Teck Coal for $7B in July of this year.

“Glencore is now the single biggest threat to our treaty-reserved fishing rights,” said Tom McDonald, Vice Chairman of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. “The EPA has been a great partner working to get Canada to address the pollution from Glencore’s mines in the Elk Valley. We expect EPA to do the same here to address pollution from Glencore’s superfund site in the Flathead Basin, particularly since EPA actually has the authority here to protect our treaty-reserved rights.”

Frankie Salmonson

POLSON — Frankie Layne Salmonson was born on Sept. 30, 2024, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. She was 19 inches long and weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce. Frankie’s parents are Angel Palmer and Kai Salmonson of Polson. Frankie joins big siblings, Faine, Ari, and Sage. Frankie’s maternal grandparents are Susan and Scott Palmer. Paternal grandparents are Sai and Kyla Salmonson. Paternal great-grandmother is Cora Salmonson.

O’Rourke inducted into Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society

News from The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

— Michael O’Rourke of Polson, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society. O’Rourke was initiated at Boise State University.

O’Rourke is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional

staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Keilonee BigSam-Adams

Frankie Salmonson Lane Jones

Wednesday, Oct. 16

Attend Mission Valley Conservation Speaker Series

CHARLO — Join the Mission Valley Conservation Speaker Series, “Why do bears eat bugs? – McDonald Peak & Other Mountains” at Ninepipes Lodge on Wednesday, Oct. 16, at 6 p.m. This free educational event is open to the public. Email: LakeCD@macdnet.org for more information.

Join ‘Moms Connect’

POLSON — On Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. join Women Connect at the Wellness Hub in Elmo to create a supportive community while learning. On Oct. 16 create dinner bowls with Havilah and a crockpot meal to go. Attend one or all in the 5 week free series. Register at: www.familiesfirstmt. org/moms-connect.html

Meditation classes offered

ZOOM — Join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays, for an online meditation class led by Zen Teacher, Zenku, including meditation instruction, practice, and discussion via Zoom from 6-7:30 p.m. For more information and a Zoom link call Zenku at 847-721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@gmail. com.

Thursday, Oct. 17

Library holds ‘Story Time’

Awaiting adventure

POLSON — Story Time is held each Thursday from 10 -11a.m. Join us to read books, make crafts and play games with your little ones at the North Lake County Public Library. This program is geared for kindergarten readiness ages 3-5. Miss Mallory will be running this program during our transition in Youth Services.

Library hold another book donation day

POLSON — The Friends of the North Lake County Public Library will hold their next Book Donation Day on Thursday, Oct. 17. You are welcome to bring material donations from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. that day.

We ask that you limit your donation to two boxes at a time. The third Thursday of each month is “Donation Day.” P

Friday, Oct. 18

Community dinner planned

POLSON — Immaculate Conception Church, 1002 Fourth Ave. E, will hold a community dinner from 5-6 p.m. Call 719-650-2418 for more information. Dinners are free of charge; donations accepted.

Enjoy a German dinner

POLSON — At 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 18, enjoy a German dinner for $15 at the Mission Valley Elks

from 9-11 a.m. at 110 Main Street.

Assistant Botanist to hold class at library

POLSON — On Friday, Oct. 18, from 4-5:30 p.m. an introductory class on plant identification with Assistant Botanist William Schlegel with the Lolo National Forest will be held at the North Lake County Public Library. Sign up at the front desk. Space is limited to 20 participants. This class is geared for participants ages 13 and older.

Saturday, Oct. 19

Learn about disgusting decomposers

for your table at the bazaar.

Author holds book signing

POLSON —The North Lake County Public Library will host on Saturday, Oct. 19, at 1 p.m., Leslie Budewitz for a book signing and presentation on her latest non-fiction publication: “All God’s Sparrows.” This program is free and open to all. Light refreshments will be served and an engaging discussion is sure to be part of the program.

Mission Valley Children’s Choir to begin

Lodge. The authentic German dinner includes, pork schnitzel with mushroom gravy, spaetzle -German noodle/dumpling, red cabbage - sweet and slightly cooked with apples and spices. Dinner includes salad and dessert.

Join the climate conversation

POLSON — Climate Cafe Polson offers a welcoming and inclusive space where individuals can engage in meaningful discussions about the climate crisis, share your thoughts, personal stories, and ideas as we explore ways to take action on personal, community, and global levels. Gatherings are open and all are welcome on the third Friday of each month

KALISPELL — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting educational programs at Lone Pine State Park in October. Lone Pine State Park is 5 miles southwest of Kalispell and offers views of the valley. On Saturday, Oct. 19, from 10-11 a.m., learn about nature’s most important clean-up crew, the decomposers. Explore how decomposers break down plants and animals, nourishing the soil and keeping ecosystems balanced. Space is limited; register-call 406-7552706.

UMC holds holiday bazaar

ST. IGNATIUS — United Methodist Church, (top of Post Creek Hill on Highway 93), will hold a holiday bazaar on Oct. 19, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Vendors now is the time to call 406-745-4527 to register

RONAN — The Mission Valley Children’s Choir will begin its sixth year on Tuesday, Oct. 19, at the Faith Lutheran Church, 406 Fifth Ave. SW. Refreshments, “together time” and rehearsals held from 3:45-5 p.m. every Tuesday. The choir is open to children in grades 2-6. For more information call 406-546-7323.

Sunday, Oct. 20

Meet Camo the bull snake

KALISPELL — Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is hosting educational programs at Lone Pine State Park in October. Lone Pine State Park is 5 miles southwest of Kalispell and offers views of the valley, 7.5 miles of trails, and an interpretive center with information on living in a wildlife-ur-

see page 19

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

Almost hidden by weeds, an old bike sits against a picket fence ready for a pedal pusher.

from page 18

ban interface. Don’t miss your chance to meet our resident bull snake, Camo, up close and personal on Sunday, Oct. 20. Join us for Sundays with Camo and learn about the incredible world of snakes and their crucial role in maintaining balance in our ecosystems. No registration is needed - just drop in. For more information about our park, visit: https://fwp.mt.gov/ stateparks/lone-pine.

Monday, Oct. 21

DPHHS, legislators to speak in Ronan

RONAN — Rep. Courtenay Sprunger, Sen. Shan Morigeau, Linda Carter of DPHHS Developmental Disability Pro-

gram, and Richard Janssen of Jake’s Farm in the Dell will speak at Jake’s Farm in the Dell at 1005 Autism Lane in Ronan.

Wednesday, Oct. 23

Join ‘Moms Connect’

POLSON — On Wednesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. join Women Connect at the Wellness Hub in Elmo to create a supportive community while learning. On Oct. 23 bead with Billie Bear while you visit with one another. Materials provided. Attend one or all in the five week free series. Register at: www.familiesfirstmt.org/ moms-connect.html.

Meditation classes offered ZOOM — Join

the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays, led by Zen Teacher, Zenku via Zoom 6-7:30 p.m. For more information and a Zoom link call 847-721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@gmail. com.

Page Turners discuss ‘The Last Kids on Earth’

POLSON — On Wednesday, Oct. 23, from 3-5 p.m. North Lake County Public Library will host a Page Turners Youth Book Club meeting. Join the Page Turner’s Book Club and read this month’s selection: “The Last Kids on Earth” by Max Brallier. Join us on Oct. 23 for the book discussion and activity. This book is recommended for ages 8+ and is a 3rd-7th grade recommended reading level.

Serving Lake County since 1923

stood the test of time! We offer complete, reliable title services in our conveniently located office in downtown Polson.

PUZZLES

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Auctions

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

AUCTION: Commercial Real Estate Space, 3,500 Square Feet, 16,800 Square Paved lot, Near Malmstom AFB. www.nationalauctionusa.com

Jim Eli & Cash Seal Cell (406) 899-6038 Office (406) 259-4730. Bidding ends 10/30/24.

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Employment

Help wanted

GREETER/SAFETY MONITOR FOREMAN (CONTRACT POSITION)

FACILITIES & MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT

This position is an integral part of the Facilities & Maintenance Department and is responsible for overseeing facility security to protect company assets, employees, and the public. Position will exercise good judgment and have responsibility for results. Position will be responsible for direction and guidance of workers assigned under their supervision and provide performance reports regarding inspections of the workplace. The successful applicant must possess high school diploma or equivalent. Must have five (5) years’ experience and/or training in security related experience and three (3) years’ supervisory experience. Computer skills in Word and Excel. Must have or obtain First Aid/ CPR certification within six (6) months after hire date, and must always remain current, along with training certification in First Aid/CPR to provide or set up certification training for all employees. Must have a valid driver’s license and have no alcohol-related convictions within the past three (3) years. Must pass background check. Must be able to work Monday through Friday. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE

FOLLOWING INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. All applicants must submit a Tribal Employment Application (Resumes may be submitted but may not replace or supplement the official Tribal Employment Application), copy of relevant academic transcripts and/or certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of 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 the Tribes, must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary Range $17.26 to $19.84 per hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date is Thursday, October 24th, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

FITNESS SPECIALIST 1 or more positions Various locations TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

The successful applicant must have a high school diploma or equivalent. 2 years’ experience working in a fitness center preferred. CPR/AED certification, within 30 days of hire. Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) from a recognized accrediting organization (e.g., NASM, ISSA, ACE, ACSM) within 60 days of hire, and ability to maintain certification. Valid driver’s license or reliable transportation to arrive to work on-time and cover at different fitness center locations as needed. Must pass background investigation. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of

enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $18.65 - $21.44 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 online at csktribes.org The closing date will be Thursday, October 31, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

GREETER/SAFETY MONITOR (1 OR MORE CONTRACT POSITIONS AVAILABLE) FACILITIES & MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT

This position is an integral part of the Facilities & Maintenance Department and is responsible for greeting the public, assisting them to the proper department and/or employee, and overseeing facility security to protect company assets, employees, and the public. Position will exercise good judgment and have responsibility for results. Position will be responsible for work assigned and to provide performance reports regarding inspections of the workplace. The successful applicant must possess high school diploma or equivalent. Computer skills in Word and Excel. Must have or obtain First Aid/CPR certification within six (6) months after hire date, and must remain current, along with training certification in First Aid/CPR to provide or set up certifica-

tion training for all employees. Must pass background investigation. Must be able to work Monday through Friday. Must have a basic knowledge of security protocol and procedures. Excellent written and verbal communications skills, as well as computer skills. Skills in adjusting work flow to meet facility needs, keeping accurate records, and keeping positive attitude when faced with difficult situations. Must have ability to communicate with clientele, visitors, co-workers and other CSKT employees. Ability to interpret and implement policies and procedures and security protocols. Ability to provide exceptional customer service. FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. All applicants must submit a Tribal Employment Application (Resumes may be submitted but may not replace or supplement the official Tribal Employment Application), copy of relevant academic transcripts and/or certifications, proof of Enrollment from a Federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range $12.51 to $14.38 per hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal Employment Applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date is Thursday, October 24th, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

ATTENTION ALL WOODCUTTERS!

Get your chainsaws gassed up, and ready to saw, our woodcutting season for 20242025 is beginning and we are

recruiting Sawyers who want to cut wood for CSKT elders at $275/cord. If you are eager to help us out, please contact Shawn or Diane at 406-675-2700, ext. 1303/1317. We look forward to partnering with you.

GRANT SPECIALIST CONTRACTS AND GRANTS

The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor’s degree in a business related field with special emphasis on contract management, budgeting or accounting OR equivalent experience in tribal organization with primary responsibility for tribal, federal and state contracting policies, procedures, and accounting or contract finance. Two (2) years of experience in contact administration and accounting. Experience with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes preferred. Knowledge of researching, analyzing and interpreting Federal, State, and Tribal laws, regulations, and policies regarding grants. Ability to communicate effectively in a variety of mediums to include both oral and written reports of very complex and detailed issues. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships. Ability to interpret regulations and policies. Ability to coordinate a variety of administrative processes. Possess analytical ability. Salary range $25.74 to $33.43 per hour, plus benefits (Health Ins., Life Ins., Retirement, Long-term disability, and P.T.O.). All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copies of relevant transcripts and/or certificates to the Tribal Personnel Department, 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or visit the csktribes.org website for the application. Closing date will be Thursday, October 24, 2024 @ 5:30 p.m. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Help wanted

HOME VISITING PARENT EDUCATOR I

1 OR MORE CONTRACT POSITIONS

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

The successful applicant must possess an Associate’s degree/90 quarter credits with 2 years’ work experience in Social Work/Psychology/ Human Service, Child Development/Education, or Health Fields working with at-risk children, parents and families. Or 4 years’ work experience providing direct services to individuals, groups, families, or communities regarding issues including: mental health, poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, domestic abuse, rehabilitation, social adjustment, child care, medical care, and child development. Must be certified or willing to obtain certification in the Parent as Teachers curriculum. Must not have had a conviction of driving under the influence of substance or a per se within the last three (3) years. Current Montana state driver’s license. Applicant must pass a background investigation, including relevant criminal history, no

misdemeanors pending and/or in process. Must have never been convicted of or pled guilty to a crime of domestic violence, child abuse, or elder abuse, sexual offense or crime of violence, (felony). No involvement with any child protective services or adult social service protection agencies as an offender. No alcohol or drug abuse charges or domestic violence charges within the past five (5) years, mandatory. Must not have resigned to avoid disciplinary actions or have or have been dismissed from employment within the past 2 years. All applicants must submit a Tribal employment application, a copy of relevant academic transcripts and training certificates, a copy of current valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT & if claiming veteran’s preference, submit a copy of your DD214. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed Background Investigation is required prior to being placed in this position.

The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $19.05 to $21.90 per hour including benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1029. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org Closing date will be Thursday, October 24, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Real Estate

Equal housing

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Montana Human Rights Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, familial status, physical or mental disability, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial sta-

Puzzle Answers

(From page 20)

Solution to Word Search

tus includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-free at 1-800669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

Legals

Legals

Ann L. Moderie MODERIE LAW FIRM, PLLC P.O. Box 1180 Polson, Montana 59860 (406) 883-2332 (888) 454-5939 (Fax)

ann@moderielaw.com

Attorney for Personal Representative

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT LAKE COUNTY

IN RE THE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT EDWARD HUGHES, Deceased.

Probate No. DP-24-65 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

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

A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the

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

/s/ Elizabeth Marie Gramoy ELIZABETH MARIE GRAMOY Personal Representative Estate of Robert Edward Hughes, Deceased

Oct. 16, 23 and 30, 2024 MNAXLP

MISSION VALLEY POWER CONSUMER COUNCIL VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

The Superintendent of Flathead Agency is accepting letters of interest to serve on the Consumer Council for Mission Valley Power. The Consumer Council was created to provide power consumers with the opportunity to

see page 23

public notices

participate in the development of utility policy and to hear appeals and complaints brought by consumers. The Consumer Council was established under the authority of PL93-638, the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975.

There are three vacancies to be filled. The vacancies will be appointed as a Lake County Representative, a Sanders County Representative, and a member-at-large. The Lake County and member-at-large appointees shall fill the positions until September 30, 2027. The Sanders County appointee shall fill the position until September 30, 2026. All appointees must reside within Mission Valley Power’s service area. The BIA Flathead Agency Superintendent will make the appointment.

The Flathead Agency Superintendent will accept letters of interest until the close of business on Thursday, October 24, 2024.

Submit letters of interest to: Cheryl Finley Flathead Agency Bureau of Indian Affairs PO Box 40 Pablo MT 59855

For more information, contact Cheryl Finley at (406) 675-2700, extension 1300.

Sept. 18, 25, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23 2024 MNAXLP

Ann L. Moderie

MODERIE LAW FIRM, PLLC P.O. Box 1180 Polson, Montana 59860 (406) 883-2332 (888) 454-5939 (Fax) ann@moderielaw.com Attorney for Personal Representative

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT LAKE COUNTY

IN RE THE OF THE ESTATE OF EDWIN A. LODER, Deceased.

Probate No. DP-24-61

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

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

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

/s/ Gregory R. Loder GREGORY R. LODER

Personal Representative Estate of Edwin A Loder, Deceased

Oct. 9, 16 and 23, 2024

MNAXLP

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING TREES IN SIDEWALKS ON MAIN STREET, CITY OF RONAN

A public hearing will be held at Ronan City Hall, October 23, 2024 at 5:45 p.m. Main Street business owners and citizens of the City of Ronan are invited to attend and offer their comments and/ or suggestions as to removal, replacement, and/or upkeep of the trees.

Kaylene Melton, Clerk/Treasurer

October 16, 2024 MNAXLP

Kalmbach Law Office, PLLC

Justin Kalmbach, Esq. PO Box 249 1 Fifth Avenue West Polson, MT 59860

Telephone: (406) 883-1159

Fax: (406) 883-1497

Email: justin@polsonlegal.com

IN THE TRIBAL COURT OF THE CONFEDERATED SALISH & KOOTENAI TRIBES OF THE FLATHEAD RESERVATION, PABLO, MONTANA

IN RE THE ADOPTION OF: JO JAMIS ORTEGA, Minor Children. ROBERT HOULE, PAMELA HOULE, Petitioners.

and JACOB WALLES, TIFFANY ORTEGA, Respondents.

Cause No. 24-0302-A SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION

THE CONFEDERATED SALISH AND KOOTENAI TRIBES SEND GREETINGS TO THE NATURAL BIRTHFATHER OF THE ABOVENAMED MINOR CHILD:

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer or otherwise respond to the Petition to Terminate Parental Rights in this action which is filed in the office of the Clerk of Tribal Court. You have fifteen (15) working days exclusive of the day of service, Saturdays, Sundays, and Tribal legal holidays from the last date of publication of this Summons. In case of your failure to answer or appear, judgment may be taken against you by default for the relief sought in the Petition. You must file your response in the office of the Clerk of Tribal Court at P.O. Box 278, Pablo, MT 59855 and serve a copy thereof upon Petitioner’s attorney,

Justin Kalmbach, whose address is listed above.

WITNESS my hand and the seal of said Court this 30th day of September, 2024.

/s/ By: Angela Bossy CLERK OF THE TRIBAL COURT

Oct. 9, 16 and 23, 2024 MNAXLP

Chuck Wall

Turnage & Wall, PLLP

Attorneys at Law

312 First St. East Polson, MT 59860

Telephone: (406) 883-5367

Fax: (406) 883-5328

ChuckWall@TurnageMercerWall.com

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: CHARLES WILLIAM REYNOLDS, JR., Deceased.

Cause No.: DP-24-2024-56

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 & WALL, PLLP, Attorneys for the Per-

sonal Representative, at PO Box 460, Polson, MT 59860.

/s/ James Stuart Reynolds

James Stuart Reynolds Personal representative, Estate of CHARLES WILLIAM REYNOLDS, JR., Deceased.

Oct. 16, 23 and 30, 2024 MNAXLP

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

To apply you must submit an SKC application, resume and applicable transcripts to: Human

Nursing Faculty (10 months)

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

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Nursing Simulation Lab Instructor

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

Closing date: Open Until Filled

Career Advisor for TRIO Student Support

Services Program (10 months)

Salary Range: $37,744 - $40,824 DOEE

Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Childcare Center Cook-Early Learning Center (9.5 months) Salary Range: $15.65-$16.92/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Custodian Part-time

Salary Range: $14.80/hr

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

PT-Housing Maintenance Technician

Salary Range: $16.54/hour DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Custodial Services Team Leader (2 positions)

Salary Range: $16.97/hr

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Accounting Tech/Receptionist

Salary Range: $14.48 - $15.12/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Bookstore Clerk (9 months)

Salary range: $14.20/hr - $14.54/hr DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Wildlife/Fisheries Ecologist (9 months)

Salary Range: $51,062 - $56,111 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Nursing Clinical Instructor-9months (3 Openings)

Salary Range: $45/hr -$55/hr DOEE (part-time, 14hrs a week)

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Social Work / CD Instructor (9 months)

Salary Range: $44,752 - $46,014 DOEE

Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Indigenous Research Center (IRC) Program Assistant

Salary Range: $39,133-$40,365 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Digital Design Department Head (9 months) and $2500 Department Chair stipend is included

Salary Range: $46,099-$47,200 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, Sept. 16, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Assistant Basketball Coach - Athletics Dept.

Salary Range: $14.54 - $15.21/hr

Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Social Work Instructor (9 months)

Salary Range: $47,276 - $56,111 DOEE

Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Social Work / CD Instructor (9 months)

Salary Range: $44,752 - $46,014 DOEE

Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024; 4:00pm MST

Indigenous Research Center (IRC) Digital Materials & Tech Specialist

Salary Range: $39,133-$40,365 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Soils & Groundwater Hydrology Instructor-9month

Salary Range: $44,752-$54,848 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Wildland Fire Instructor (9 months)

Salary Range: $44,752-$58,848 DOEE

Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Hydrology Instructor Limnology (9 months)

Salary Range: $51,062 - $56,111 DOEE

Closing Date: Monday, Sept. 9, 2024; 4:00pm MST

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