10-25-23 issue by Valley Journal

$1.25

your homegrown newspaper October 25, 2023

Vol. 20, No. 6

Musicians Co-op marks 4-year anniversary, plans public celebration News from WMMC

Bring Her Home pg. 5

Local Veteran pg. 6

Winter Market pg. 14

RONAN — To celebrate their 4-year anniversary, the Western Montana Musicians Cooperative (WMMC) is throwing a party and inviting all who’d like to attend. Founded by Dough Ruhman and Keith Rennie in October 2019, a small group of passionate musicians gathered with a vision to create a supportive and inclusive space for music enthusiasts. Now, four years later, they invite the community to celebrate with them on Nov. 11, at 3 p.m. at their at 1 Eisenhower Street SW, Ronan location. The WMMC was founded with a simple yet powerful mission: to provide a safe and welcoming environment for musicians of all backgrounds to create music together. For $25 a month co-op members have access to a 20x40 foot stage with guitars, amps, drum sets, a baby grand piano, an electric keyboard, a full digital PA with subwoof-

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Sid Seay and Keryl Lozar play guitar and sing on stage during a Saturday Open Jam night at the Western Montana Musicians Co-op in Ronan.

ers, microphones, stage lighting and more. Individuals and bands use the stage and equipment for rehearsal with minimal setup or just to jam and have musical fun with friends. On Fridays and Saturdays the space is

opened to the public at 7 p.m. for open mic and open jam nights. Over the years, the WMMC has flourished, nurturing local talent, and strengthening the sense of musical community in Western Montana. The co-op

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

provides an opportunity to engage with others you may not otherwise cross paths with, Ruhman commented. “Regardless of political, social views – we’re all here for the music. It’s what brings everyone together,” he

said. Having played in a number of bands over the years, Ruhman said playing music with the same people fosters a feeling of family. “The co-op is a bigger version of that,”

see page 2

Pablo man dies in camper -trailer fire News from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office

COURTESY PHOTO

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

4-year celebration from page 1

he said. “It’s why I’m still engaged with it. Most Saturdays I’m here, jamming with my friends.” The Nov. 11 celebration promises an unforgettable experience with live music performances featuring several WMMC members, including Grammy winners. The event will feature artists such as The Late Bloomers, Mark Chase, Andre Floyd, and Don Teschner (a Grammy-winning guitarist who toured with 2 - October 25, 2023

Rod Stewart), along with Mojo Resurrected, Highway 93, and National Remedy. Afterward, there will also be an “All Star Jam.” Festivities commence at 3 p.m. and continue until 10 p.m., with a jam session to follow. There will be a $5 door charge for admission, and attendees can enjoy beer, wine, and food. A silent auction where attendees can bid on unique items and experiences will also be held. All proceeds benefit the cooperative. The event provides an opportunity

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

for music lovers and the community at large to support local talent and the cooperative’s mission. WMMC seeks to expand its impact further, including offering affordable music lessons, member scholarships for young musicians, and providing instruments to those in need. Additionally, they aim to secure a permanent space in the Mission Valley within the

next two to three years. To support the cooperative in achieving these ambitious goals, community members are encouraged to become sponsors at various levels: Member ($25), Headliner ($100), Maestro ($250), Rockstar ($500), or Legend ($1000+). Donations are tax-deductible up to 92%, and contributions can be made through PayPal, by mail, or in person during

Valley Journal

the anniversary celebration. Join the WMCC on Nov. 11 for a day filled with music, camaraderie, and community spirit. Celebrate four years of musical collaboration, growth, and harmony, and help continue the mission of supporting musicians in Western Montana. For more information about the event, spon-

PABLO — The identity of the man who died in a camper-trailer fire on Friday, Oct. 13, in Pablo, is 63-year-old, Steven L. Rosenbaum of Pablo. The deceased was sent to the State Medical Examiner’s Office and his cause of death is still under investigation by the Lake County Coroner’s Office. The State Fire Marshal’s Office responded and assisted with the investigation. Cause of the fire is also still under investigation, but it does not appear to involve foul play. The Sheriff ’s Office sends our condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Rosenbaum. sorship opportunities, or the cooperative, please visit mtmusic.org or contact: Doug Ruhman, co-founder and president, at 406-249-6534 or dougruhman@gmail.com

With more than 35 years of trusted experience,

Carolyn Cole, Jason Reese & Mann Mortgage can help you with ALL loan types. Our unmatched access to multiple lenders ensures you the lowest rate and saves you thousands on the life of your loan. NMLS202131 NMLS438393 Mann Mortgage LLC NMLS 2550 MTL#270418/#105/#801

Find us directly across from Flathead Lake 50125 US Hwy 93, Polson, MT carolyn.cole@mannmortgage.com jason.reese@mannmortgage.com

(406) 883-1445

This Week’s Weather Forecast Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Oct. 26

Oct. 27

Oct. 28

Oct. 29

32/22°

35°/21°

34/18°

32°/12°

33°/16°

Snow 46% chance precipitation

Mostly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation

Mostly Sunny 20% chance precipitation

Partly Cloudy 14% chance precipitation

Partly Cloudy 10% chance precipitation

Oct. 25

Monday

Tuesday

34°/19°

38°/24°

Oct. 30

Oct.31

Partly Cloudy 11% chance precipitation

Partly Cloudy 24% chance precipitation

Flathead Lake Level 2890.14 (2.86 ft below full pool)

WED

10/25

8:08 am

6:32 pm

5:24 pm

3:53 am

THUR

10/26

8:11 am

6:31 pm

5:42 pm

5:15 am

FRI

10/27

8:12 am

6:29 pm

6:00 pm

6:38 am

SAT

10/28

8:14 am

6:27 pm

6:19 pm

8:01 am

SUN

10/29

8:15 am

6:25 pm

6:43 pm

9:24 am

Precipitation 0.1 inches

MON

10/30

8:17 am

6:24 pm

7:14 pm

10:46 am

Record High 76° F

TUES

10/31

8:18 am

6:22 pm

7:52 pm

12:04 pm

Valley Journal

Today in History Oct. 25, 2022 High 47° F Low 33° F

Record Low -8° F October 25, 2023 - 3

contents ‘Bring Her Home’.......... 5 Obituaries................... 18 Valley Views ............... 10 Births.......................... 21 Gianforte sued............ 12 Calendar..................... 22 Mack Days.................. 16 Classifieds.................. 26

Flathead Lake narrows

And find us online for

more photos, videos, breaking news and special sections!

www.valleyjournal.net

Boone Goddard

Summer Goddard

Advertising Sales, Owner (406) 249-1728 boone@valleyjournal.net

Publisher, Owner (406) 249-1793 summer@valleyjournal.net

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 25, 2023

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

Kathi Beeks Office Manager, Copy Editor (406) 676-8989 vjmail@valleyjournal.net news@valleyjournal.net

2023 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 2023, the Valley Journal. All rights reserved. Reproduction, reuse or transmittal in any form or by any means is prohibited without written permission of the Valley Journal.

movie poster

Patrick Yawakie, right, speaks to audience members before the film is shown.

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO

‘Bring Her Home’ shines light on plight of missing indigenous women By Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

POLSON— The award-winning documentary “Bring Her Home” was shown the Showboat movie theater on Oct. 21 to help bring awareness to the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women. Made in Minnesota, the film highlights the challenges indigenous people have getting equal support from law enforcement for crimes committed against their communities to the abductions of indigenous women. The film was brought to Polson by the Flathead Reservation Human Rights Coalition. FRHRC’s Krysti Reich-

man and Patrick Yawakie spoke before the screening to attendees. Yawakie thanked everyone “who came out and supported us today,” while Reichman collected donations and passed out hate-free zone stickers and other items that support the coalition’s efforts. As a non-profit, the Coalition is accepting donations to help fund their hate-free zone billboard in St. Ignatius. “The board tries to bring educational material into the community as often as we can to try and bring further awareness, and understanding of our efforts,” Reichman said. “This subject hits very close to home and we don’t really get educated

on this anywhere else.” Events like this, she added, allow for community discussion and get people to think about an important issue affecting all reservations. “Bring Her Home” follows three indigenous women who work to get justice for their missing family members, highlighting relevant court battles and how indigenous groups have had minimal support from law enforcement. After the film ended Yawakie introduced Erica Shelby - a tribal legal advocate. “We need to stop just putting a band-aid on the problem and start working toward a better solution and get down to the root of the problem,” she

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO

Movie goers at left and center pose for a photo with Patrick Yawakie, second from left, Krysti Reichman, far right, of the Flathead Reservation Human Rights Coalition and tribal legal advocate Erica Shelby, second from left.

said, “So we no longer have to face this crisis”. Shelby said she will keep working to get indige-

Valley Journal

nous people recognized and to safe. She thanked Yawakie and Reichman for inviting her to the

event and said she looks forward to further future collaboration.

October 25, 2023 - 5

Local military veteran named a PGA HOPE Ambassador News from Alex Haley, PGA HOPE Progam

RONAN — Local military veteran, Chuck Lewis of Ronan, was named a PGA HOPE Ambassador following the completion of a specialized training program during the PGA HOPE National Golf and Wellness Week at the famed Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland. PGA HOPE (Helping Our Patriots Everywhere) is a rehabilitative golf program that positively impacts more than 12,000 Veterans each year living with physical and cognitive challenges such as PTSD, TBI and amputees. As a PGA HOPE Ambassador, Chuck Lewis, will help champion the program – that is changing and saving lives - throughout the Pacific Northwest PGA Section. Chuck Lewis, aka the “Montana Honor Guard,” is a United States Marine Corps (’70 - ‘74) and United States Navy Reserve (’80 - ‘88) Veteran. As an Avionics Technician, he worked on a variety of aircraft including the CH-53 (+Air Crew), A-4, OV-10 and FA-18 while serving at Marine Corps Air Stations in Tustin, California; Futenma, Okinawa; USS Okinawa/Tripoli; Republic of Vietnam; El Toro, California; and the Naval Air Warfare Center at China Lake, California. Chuck has been given many awards: USMC ~ National Defense, Good Conduct, Vietnam Ser6 - October 25, 2023

Secretary Haaland travels to MT for final visit on ‘The Road to Healing’ Will meet with federal Indian boarding school survivors and descendants News from the Dept. of the Interior

vice, Vietnam Campaign, Aircrew Wings and Rifle/ Pistol Expert. USNR ~ Naval Reserve and Rifle/Pistol Expert. Through the Veteran Service Network of Missoula, Chuck heard of an opportunity for military veterans to learn how to play golf through the PGA HOPE program. He signed up for the August 2022 class that was held at the Missoula Country Club and took on the challenge. Golf is therapy for the mind and fitness

for the body and sharing this PGA HOPE experience with other veterans falls in line with other veterans’ self-help projects that he believes in. Chuck started a program called “Plan Valley Journal

Bee,” which uses beekeeping as therapy to help military veterans living in Northwestern Montana who may be disabled, wounded, or suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.

WASHINGTON — On Nov. 5, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland and Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Wizipan Garriott will travel to Bozeman for the twelfth and final stop on “The Road to Healing,” a year-long tour across the country to provide Native survivors of the federal Indian boarding school system and their descendants an opportunity to share their experiences. This meeting is with survivors and descendants of the federal Indian boarding school system as part of “The Road to Healing” on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at 10 a.m. in Bozeman. Secretary Haaland launched the Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative to shed light on the troubled history of Federal Indian boarding school policies and their legacy for Indigenous Peoples. In May 2022, the Department released Volume 1 of an investigative report as part of the Initiative, which calls for connecting communities with trauma-informed support and facilitating the collection of a permanent oral history. Trauma-informed support will be available on-site during the events, which will be memorialized as part of the effort to capture first-person stories. Only the first hour will be open to credentialed members of the media to allow space for the wishes of participants. A transcript will be available in the weeks following the visit on the Department’s Federal Indian Boarding School Initiative webpage.

Providers who get to know your story, not just your symptoms. As each of us gets older, what we need for our healthcare changes— sometimes more than once. That’s why Humana has providers like Greater Good Health in our network that specialize in geriatric care. We connect you with doctors who take time to get to know you, offering care that evolves alongside you and a dedicated team who prioritizes your whole health.

Specialized primary care for adults 65+

A professional care team that takes the time to listen

Care beyond the clinical, with mental health and social wellness support

Find a Greater Good Health location near you Coming Soon: Billings 1423 38th St. W, Ste. 3 Billings, MT 59102

Now Open: Missoula 2230 N Reserve St., Ste. 110 Missoula, MT 59808

Visit HealthThatCares.com/ Greater-Good-Health or scan the QR code

Coming Soon: Great Falls 405 3rd St. NW Great Falls, MT 59404

Other Providers are available in our network. Provider may also contract with other plan sponsors. Important! At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status or religion. ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-855-360-4575 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingü.stica. Llame al 1-800-706-6167 (TTY: 711). 繁體中文 (Chinese): 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-855-360-4575 (TTY: 711)。 Y0040_GHHLZH6EN_C

Valley Journal

October 25, 2023 - 7

Paving operations continue along US Hwy. 93 in Ronan News from Sloane Stinson, MT Dept. of Transportation

RONAN — Riverside Contracting Inc. will begin paving operations this week on US Highway 93 (US 93), weather permitting. Paving crews will be onsite Thursday, Oct. 26, through Saturday, Oct. 28, from 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The final layer of pavement will be installed on the southbound lanes of US 93, starting at the north end of the project area. Once work on the

southbound lanes has been completed, crews will begin paving the northbound lanes. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction through the project area. Please follow all traffic control, and watch for workers and equipment. When paving operations reach the south end of the project area, near the intersection of US 93 with Round Butte Road and Terrace Lake Road, traffic will be reduced to a single lane and directed by

flaggers. Crews also plan to continue concrete work, US 93 fencing installation, and sidewalk construction along Round Butte Road and the southbound couplet, the short segment of roadway connecting First Avenue to US 93. All work is dependent on weather and other unforeseen factors. Crews will be onsite Monday, Oct. 23, through Saturday, Oct. 28, from 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. When traveling

through the construction zone, slow down, follow all traffic control, and watch for workers and equipment. The speed limit remains at 35 mph. Please remember to follow posted speed limits when driving through the project site. For more information on the Ronan-North project, call the project hotline at 406-207-4484, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or visit: https://www. mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/ ronanurban/.

map courtesy of the Montana Dept. of Transportation

Ktunaxa Nation calls for meeting with US, Canada to address watershed pollution Trudeau, Biden miss both end-ofsummer deadline and commitment to work in partnership with transboundary Ktunaxa Nation to address mining pollution in Kootenai/y watershed News from Gwen Lankford, CSKT Executive Team

PABLO — The United States and Canada have failed to meet their summer deadline to reach an agreement in partnership with the Ktunaxa on how to address pollution in the 8 - October 25, 2023

Elk and Kootenai/y Rivers, demonstrating the federal governments’ continued lack of commitment to address this serious pollution problem. Ktunaxa leadership have been urging Canada and the U.S. to address water quality pollution in Ktunaxa homelands for over a decade. In March of this year, Prime Minister Trudeau and President Biden publicly committed to “reach an agreement in principle by this summer to reduce and mitigate the impacts of water pollution in the Elk-Kootenai watershed in partnership with Tribal Nations and Indigenous Peoples, in order to pro-

tect the people and species that depend on this vital river system.” Yet, the end of summer has come and gone without any agreement, or any real progress, in working together. This, despite numerous opportunities and ample time for all eight governments to meet, including at the federal bilateral meeting in April, the Upper Columbia United Tribes (UCUT) transboundary mining conference in September, and even the federal bilateral meeting happening this week in Ottawa. Ktunaxa were initially encouraged by President Biden and Prime Minister Trudeau’s March commitment, which

acknowledged the need for a solution—developed and implemented in partnership with the Ktunaxa—for the Elk-Kootenai watershed. Yet this initial encouragement faltered as engagement with the federal governments—particularly Canada—following the statement’s release was nearly nonexistent, and a far cry from a “partnership.” The lack of engagement and collaboration let Ktunaxa leadership to convene in June to pen their own solution, which was sent to federal governments in mid-July. The Ktunaxa proposal includes a reference to the International Joint Commission

Valley Journal

(IJC), along with a Ktunaxa-Federal action plan. This “two-pronged approach” is based on (1) the need for an IJC-established Watershed Board to conduct an independent, transparent, and accountable scientific assessment of pollution in the watershed and perform ongoing monitoring, and (2) the parallel need for a governance plan that guarantees both federal governments and all six Ktunaxa governments an equal seat at the table to immediately begin to implement solutions, restore the waters, and ensure effective regulation and management of the watershed going forward. The Ktunaxa proposal aims

to bridge the draft IJC reference put forward by the U.S. and the call for a governance table from Canada. Yet despite the fact that Canada has had proposals for an IJC reference from the Ktunaxa Nation, the U.S., and even British Columbia since mid-July —Ktunaxa did not receive even an acknowledgment of the proposal from Canada until September 21, one day before the end of summer deadline. “We were encouraged that the U.S. and Canada committed to reaching an agreement—in partnership with the Ktunaxa—on the damaging pollution in the

see page 9

“We must come to a solution before the end of the year – we were strung along in 2022 and then again in 2023 ... The governments need to show that their deadlines, and their intent to meet them are meaningful. KSANKA BAND VICE-CHAIRMAN GARY AITKEN, JR.

watershed pollution from page 8

Kootenai/y watershed by this summer, and we were even more encouraged when British Columbia—a long holdout— indicated their support for an IJC reference in July,” said Tom McDonald, Chairman of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. “With B.C. on board, we now have all crucial governments in support of an IJC reference, except

for Canada. We simply can’t understand what is holding Canada back and keeping them from honoring their promises to Indigenous peoples, the environment, and the International Boundary Waters Treaty,” McDonald continued. Remarks made at a conference at the end of September by a Global Affairs Canada representative that “Canada knows that they are late with their homework” have spurred Ktunaxa Leadership to initiate a

government-to-government-to-government meeting to be set in November. “There has not been a single multi-government meeting to discuss solutions,” Ktunaxa Nation Chair Kathryn Teneese said. “While the United States has met regularly with the staff of the full transboundary Ktunaxa Nation, Canada has not done the same. And, there haven’t been any meetings between the U.S., Canada, and the Ktunaxa Nation all

together, despite our repeated requests and numerous opportunities and ample time for that to occur.” The Ktunaxa Nation invites Canada and the United States to immediately make good on their promise and meet with the governments of the Ksanka Band, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes; and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho and are initiating a meeting in the coming weeks. “We must come to a

solution before the end of the year — we were strung along in 2022, and then again in 2023 with a target of end of summer. The governments need to show that their deadlines, and their intent to meet them, are meaningful. We cannot accept any more broken promises. We have been asking for action on this issue for more than a decade, and we can’t wait any longer,” said Ksanka Band Vice-Chairman Gary Aitken, Jr. “We thought the commit-

ment to work in partnership with the Ktunaxa Nation meant that all eight governments would sit down together to reach an agreement, but nothing could be further from the truth. Since the U.S. and Canada are not able to set up a process for reaching agreement, the Nation has no choice but to set one up so that we can actually address the devastating pollution in the Kootenai watershed.”

Proud Community Partner “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” - Winston Churchill

Attention Realtors: Consider having your title work done by a locally owned and operated company dedicated to serving both our clients and our community. Fidelity Title Agency proudly supports our local schools, civic organizations and charities.

We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and your clients!

Fidelity

Title Agency of Lake County

402 First Street East • Suite 101 Polson, Montana 59860

(406) 883-6051 info@lclandco.com

Montana Land Title Association and American Land Title Association Member

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 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 PL93638, the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975. There is one vacancy to be filled. The vacancy will be appointed as a Sanders County Representative. Appointee shall fill the position to September 30, 2026. All appointees must reside within Mission

Valley Journal

Valley Power’s service area. The BIA Flathead Agency Superintendent will make the appointment. The Flathead Agency Superintendent will accept letters of interest up to the close of business on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. 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. October 25, 2023 - 9

valley views An adventure with superglue N

ote to readers mend the break. Or at (and self ) super least try. glue does not mix well I was in bed. Sleeping. with granite countertops. It’s something I tend to Recently I had the opdo at night. I do not even portunity to experience attempt to keep up with this noxious combination their late/wee hours anyin the comfort of my more. I need sleep more own kitchen. than I need This was to be the not of my perfect mom. Jill Pertler doing. But Besides, Syndicated columnist you already perfect is as knew that. over-rated Late one an unbroken, night (when all the hand-painted bowl. Sleep excitement happens at is not. my house) my teenage Since I wasn’t around son had an unfortunate to help with the repairs, encounter with ceramic he was left to his own bowl, which resulted accord. He grabbed the in the right half of the super glue and went to bowl separating from the work right there on the left. Normally a broken granite. I’m not sure exbowl is no big deal at our actly what transpired, but house, but this happened I picture super bonding to be a bowl that was solution squirting everyhand-painted – by me. where. The result was a Since my son understood bigger mess than a brothe gravity of his preken bowl. dicament, he decided to I expected this sort of

Slices of Life

letters

Vote for democracy, not autocracy

Editor, Hopefully our nation of voting citizens will decide against falling into a Trump style autocratic system of government and opt to retain 10 - October 25, 2023

our democratic system of government. As a nation, we are right now close to making that decision. For a democracy to work and operate well requires patience and political patriotism. It requires human beings in positions of power to think, speak, and act from

stuff when they were little. When they were too young to know any better or be held accountable for their actions, like the time they spray painted their toys green – in the bathroom sink. But the years unfold, they grow up and you expect them to know things they do not yet know. Like you might not want to spill super glue on the countertop because they call it super glue for a reason. My son was unaware of the super mess he created. When I got up the next morning, I was not. After wiping and washing and spraying and scrubbing with an assortment of kitchen cleaning products, the surface refused to shine. Being the supermom that I am, I quickly recognized the source of the problem. Cyanoacrylate – the chemical name for super

glue. (Thanks, Google.) As I contemplated the super stain I was sure of one thing. They’d broken something; I just didn’t know what it was yet. I didn’t have much time to investigate. My son suffered from a guilty conscience and fessed up first thing after getting out of bed. He carried the bowl over to where I was searching the Internet using phrases like,“How to remove super glue” (acetone nail polish remover, by the way). He pointed out the crack. I told him it was no big deal. He breathed a sigh of relief. Then I told him about the counter. His head drooped and he breathed another sigh. This one contained no relief. His remorse was enough for me. I stated my mantra,“It’s no big deal.” And I meant it.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned during my time on this planet it’s that people are more important than things. (Unless the thing is the last piece of cheesecake.) I wasn’t upset. Not really. After raising three boys I’ve learned to take most things with a healthy dose of calm. Or maybe I’m just getting old. Either way, I figured this would make for a fond family memory someday. Besides, you know what they say: there’s no use crying over spilt super glue. 2023 note: This column was written in 2014 and nine years later I can honestly say that I have no recollection of my hand-painted bowl - broken or not, which only serves to prove my theory that people are definitely more important than things - even

qualities which transcend “lust for power” and selfish decision making. We, in the voting public, need to believe in and respond positively to our collective power in this regard. And, of course, our many and varied ways of just living our lives causes public confu-

sion and consternation. Much of this needs to be put aside when, in our democracy, certain decisions affecting us all need to be made. In a true democratic form of government this can be exhausting at times. Personally, my spiritual beliefs and my attempts

to bring these to life in my thinking, speaking and acting often transcend all the chaos in the world. In any case, I firmly believe that we all are created in the image and likeness of God, with is Love. Bob McClellan Missoula

Valley Journal

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

LETTER POLICY Letters to the editor are welcome. The content is the opinion of the letter writer and not the newspaper. The decision to publish letters is made by the editor. Letters must be 350 words or less. A writer will only be published twice per month. Letters may be edited for content or length, or may not be published if considered libelous, in poor taste, spiteful, self-promotional or of limited interest to the general readership. Space limitations also dictate when or if letters are published. Letters must be signed by the author and name, address and phone number must be included – phone number is for verification purposes only. Letters from organizations must include the name of at least one author. 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.

Legislature cut red tape to increase housing availability T

he Legislature’s major zoning reforms to increase the supply of affordable housing in Montana have made a lot of news, but there was also another significant pillar of our pro-housing work during the session: cutting red tape. Excessive government regulations have been one of the barriers to meeting demand for housing. Every regulation also increases costs, making what homes do get built more

Legislative Notes

expensive than they otherwise would be. The Legislature’s regulatory reforms touched on every economic class, from families with existing property, to starter homes, to renters, and even the homeless. Sen. Jason I sponEllsorth, R- Hamilton sored a bill that allows property owners to assist their family members with obtaining housing. SB 158 allows families to transfer ownership of properties within subdivisions to other family members, as long as such family trans-

fers are allowed in covenants. If a family owns 20 acres and wants to transfer five acres to their adult child starting his or her own family, that’s now possible in many more places. Same goes for families with aging parents, who can now have their parents live out their senior years in a transferred property next door. The Legislature passed many red tape relief bills targeted at starter homes and affordable middle class homes. HB 246 allows cities to create special zoning districts for tiny houses. Senate Bills 130, 131, 152, and 170, as well as House Bill 211, all work

to streamline bureaucratic approvals for subdivisions and land use. Senate Bills 406 and 285, plus House Bill 364, reduced and limited regulatory costs for building housing. Thanks to these reforms, it’s now easier and quicker to build middle class housing and starter homes in Montana than it has been in decades. Senate Bill 528 was an important reform for both renters and private property rights. It allows at least one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to be built, by right, on a lot that has a single-family home on it. ADUs are small units than can dramatically

tana were being denied the ability to provide a warm bed on a cold winter night to the homeless in their community. All of these changes to Montana law were sponsored by Republicans, and most enjoyed a lot of bipartisan support from Democrats as well. These bills, combined with major zoning reforms and a couple pieces of legislation making targeted investments in workforce housing, made the 2023 legislative session the most pro-housing session in state history. Sen. Jason Ellsworth, R-Hamilton, is the President of the Montana Senate.

ATTENTION

Donate socks for ‘Socktober’ event LAKE COUNTY — Donate new socks throughout October at Flying S Title & Escrow, 210 Second Street in Polson. This year’s socks are going to Lake County Elementary Schools. Drop off or contact us to pick up: 406-883-5258 or polsonmt@fste.com

increase the availability of housing within cities, especially housing that is available as long-term rentals. By allowing homeowners to build an ADU on their property to rent out, SB 528 also helps homeowners afford their own residence. Senate Bill 195 is a prime example of getting government out of the way to let people help each other. It allows churches to temporarily house people without meeting the expensive fire suppression system regulations that are required of permanent residences. Without this reform, some churches in Mon-

Voters of Town of St. Ignatius My name is Stuart Morton and I have lived in St. Ignatius for over 60 years. I have served on the St. Ignatius City Council and various service organizations throughout the Mission Valley for many years. I have always felt the need to serve the valley in the best ways I could to benefit the people that I would represent. I am writing this letter in support of Rikki Merchant and Steve McCollum. Both have lived here for many years and own property in town. While all three candidates are qualified, I believe these are the best candidates for the two open positions on the council. Rikki Merchant and Steve McCollum will be great members on the council I hope that you vote for them. While all three candidates are qualified, I believe that a husband and wife serving on the council at the same time represents a conflict of interest for the city. Chris Heffern and Janis Heffern are both serving on the council right now as a result of her appointment this summer to fill out the term of Ray Frey who passed away this past spring. While it is admirable for the Hefferns to both serve on city council, I believe that we need to have broader representation on the council as each member has a vote. Both are good people but already having Chris on the council and the fact that we have two other qualified candidates in Rikki Merchant and Steve McCollum running, I would recommend them for your support. Thank you for reading this and your interest in making St. Ignatius a beter place to live. Remember to mail back your ballots if you have received one by Nov. 7th. - Stuart Morton Valley Journal

October 25, 2023 - 11

Gianforte, state health department sued over refusal to release public documents Upper 7 lawsuit challenges Governor’s claim of executive privilege as justification for withholding information News from Montana Free Press

HELENA — The Helena-based nonprofit law firm Upper Seven filed a lawsuit Tuesday against Gov. Greg Gianforte and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, alleging the state has concealed information related to its compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws. In its complaint, filed in Lewis and Clark County District Court, Upper Seven asserted that Gianforte and DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton violated the Montana Constitution’s right-to-know provision by denying the firm access to public records it requested in August. According to the lawsuit, those requests stemmed from a claim that the governor’s legal staff had advised state agencies not to assure compliance with federal nondiscrimination laws when completing paperwork for federal contracts — a claim tied to the Legislature’s recent passage of Senate Bill 458 defining “sex” in Montana law as binary. Both DPHHS and the governor’s office asserted executive privilege in denying the requests. “In Montana, the days of policymaking in the dark and behind closed doors are long gone,” Upper Seven Executive Director Rylee Sommers-Flanagan said in a press release Tuesday. “Neither the Gov12 - October 25, 2023

ernor’s Office nor DPHHS can explain their refusal to provide copies of the guidance they issued to employees, apparently instructing them to reserve the right to discriminate against Montanans when distributing federal funds. But the Montana Constitution requires transparency. And the governor must obey the Constitution he has sworn to uphold.” A spokesperson for Gianforte’s office declined comment Tuesday afternoon, noting that the administration doesn’t comment on pending litigation. Upper Seven asked the district court to order DPHHS and the governor’s office to produce the requested records, which the firm argues contain information about the state’s handling of federal nondiscrimination certifications. The lawsuit also seeks legal fees for bringing the case. The complaint marks the third legal challenge against Gianforte involving records requests in the past year. Last December, District Judge Kathy Seeley rejected the governor’s assertion of executive privilege in refusing to release communications between his office and state agency heads regarding the potential impacts of state legislation. And in June, District Judge Chris Abbott granted an order requiring the release of records to two environmental groups that sued Gianforte’s office after it refused to turn over communications between the governor and Idaho-based mining company Hecla. Gianforte announced his intent to appeal the latter decision to the Montana Supreme Court in August.

Rural representation on Amtrak Board secured tance rail on the Amtrak Board. Look, I think that’s a good sign. It will make the Amtrak Board stronger and certainly will make America stronger for that because News from the office of Senator Tester geographic diversity is always well served on any board.” U.S. Senate — Speaking at a U.S. SenLast week, Tester secured a major win ate Commerce Committee markup this for Montana by forcing the White House week, U.S. Senator Jon Tester highlighted to withdraw one of its Amtrak Board his successful push to force the Biden nominees and replace them with someone Administration to withdraw one of its outside of Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor. Amtrak Board of Directors nominees The shift comes after Senator Tester and replace them with someone outside successfully blocked President Biden’s of Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor. Tester’s slate of Amtrak Board nominees until comments follow a successthe Administration brought ful months-long effort to them into compliance with secure rural representation geographic representation on the Amtrak Board. from Tester’s It is import- requirements Tester began his remarks Bipartisan Infrastructure before the Committee by ant that ru- Law. Tester began formally noting the important role blocking President Biden’s ral America nominees to serve as memthat Amtrak plays in connecting Montana’s Hi-Line bers of the Amtrak Board of is not left communities: “Amtrak is Directors back in April. behind on a critical part of America’s Tester worked with infrastructure from coast four Democrats and five the Amtrak to coast, but it’s not just Republicans to craft his Board...” about the Northeast corribipartisan Infrastructure Indor. Amtrak is important vestment and Jobs Act. He - Senator Jon Tester all over this country. In my specifically worked with his home state of Montana, colleagues on both sides of we’ve got the Empire the aisle to include provisions Builder that has been connecting Monthat will enable Amtrak to modernize its tana to the rest of the world for generaoperations and continue to serve the entions. It is important that rural America is tire country’s needs for decades to come. not left behind on the Amtrak Board.” Part of that effort included crafting a Additionally, Tester emphasized that bipartisan fix that restructured the Amhis successful push to secure rural repretrak Board of Directors so that it better sentation on the Amtrak Board will make reflects the nation’s geographic diversity. the board stronger and be beneficial to the In addition to other requirements, Conentire country: “I have been crystal clear gress mandated in the law that no more from the jump that because of the law – than four members of Amtrak’s Board our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that come from the Northeast Corridor, which we passed a year or so ago – we fought to statute defines to include Connecticut, make sure that rural America, and that Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New long-distance rail, had a place on the Am- Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Istrak Board. The Administration did not land, and the District of Columbia. Prior heed that. Since then, they have pulled to Tester’s successful block, five of the six back on one nominee so that we can get nominees for Amtrak’s Board were from somebody that understands long-disthe Northeast Corridor.

East Coast Bias at Key Committee Markup derailed

“

Valley Journal

‘Reimagining Rural’ applications accepted until Dec. 15 Public invited to learn more about application process at Oct. 18 webinar From the MSU News Service

BOZEMAN — Montana State University Extension is accepting applications from rural Montana communities until Dec. 15 to participate in Reimagining Rural, a threepart virtual gathering planned for January and February. Reimagining Rural is a program that brings community members in towns across the state together for three evening events to hear speakers share their rural success stories and how to get things done in small towns. Following the talks, where members of local communities gather to listen to remote speakers, is a facilitated conversation about ideas that might work in their commu-

nities. “Reimagining Rural brings fresh ideas to small towns that spark big ideas of what is possible for their future,” said Tara Mastel, MSU Extension community vitality associate specialist. “Everything about the program is specifically designed for small towns that are powered by volunteers.” More than 48 communities across Montana have participated in the Reimagining Rural virtual gathering since it began in 2020. “Participants come away inspired to start new projects and engage new volunteers to work toward a more vibrant future for their town,” Mastel said. Sessions are planned for 6-8 p.m. on Jan. 29, Feb. 12 and Feb. 26. The program is free, but communities must apply to participate. Applications are due Dec. 15. To learn more or download the application, visit: msuextension.org/com-

munitydevelopment/reimagine-rural.html. Interested community members can learn more about the application process and about the successes of past participants at a webinar set for 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 18. The webinar is part of a yearlong series planned for community volunteer leaders called “Inspiration Hour.” To learn more about Reimagining Rural or to register for the October webinar, visit: montana.edu/extension/communitydevelopment/RRinspiration. html. Reimagining Rural is made possible through a collaboration between MSU Extension and the Montana Community Foundation. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available to support rural community projects. For more information, contact Mastel at: tara.mastel@ montana.edu.

MSU to host math competition Montana State to host national mathematics competitions for high school students Nov. 8, 14 From the MSU News Service

BOZEMAN — High school students can now register for free mathematics contests set for Wednesday, Nov. 8, and Tuesday, Nov. 14, at Montana State University. Exams are administered in-person on the MSU campus in Bozeman, and results are submitted online and measured against a national competition pool. The American Mathematics Competition 10/12 contests, hosted by MSU’s College of Education, Health and Human Development’s Science Math Resource Center, are part of

School Board Trustee Position open Charlo School District has an opening for the position of trustee on the Charlo School Board. This is an appointed position for the remainder of the term until May 7, 2024. Interested parties must reside in the Charlo School District 7J and be a registered voter.

• Private apartments • 24 Hour Care • Personalized Assistance • Beauty Salon / Barber Shop

If interested please submit a letter of interest to Adrian Roylance, Chairman, or Sara Vaughan, Clerk of the Board by November 15, 2023. An appointment will be made at the next regular Board meeting November 21, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at the Charlo Schools Library.

• Housekeeping / Laundry • Activities Call Joel Mohler or Logan Goodin for a tour.

406-883-8970 11 17th Ave. East, Polson, MT

Assisted Living at its finest

Adrian Roylance: 59230 Hwy 212 Charlo MT 59824 Sara Vaughan: PO Box 10 Charlo MT 59824 406-644-2206 10/25/23 MNAXLP

Valley Journal

the American Mathematics Competition series developed by the Mathematical Association of America. The series aims to help students develop positive attitudes toward analytical thinking, problem solving and advanced mathematics, and the competitions are designed to be friendly and supportive and to foster a love for mathematics. The AMC 10 exam covers the high school mathematics curriculum through grade 10. AMC 12 covers the high school math curriculum, including trigonometry, advanced algebra and advanced geometry, but not calculus. Both are 25-question, 75-minute tests, and both are offered on Nov. 8 and 14. The AMC 10 and 12 tests to be given on Nov. 8 (called see page 14

Pet o f

Meet. . .

Newton

the w eek

Newton is a handsome 5-month-old puppy who looks forward to finding a fun family to call his own! Stop by MVAS to meet Newton today! contact

Mission Valley Animal Shelter call 883-5312 or visit our Facebook page!

Newton Sponsored by

Bishop Insurance Polson: 302 1st St. W. Ste. 102 • 883-5372 Ronan: 209 Main Street SW • 676-5300

bishopinsurance.com October 25, 2023 - 13

math contest

from page 13

Test A) and Nov. 14 (called Test B) have the same number of questions, scoring and rules of administration. Test A and Test B examinations are designed to be equal in difficulty and distribution of topics. Students may register for either contest, or both. Registration is free for Montana students. Students through 10th grade and under 17.5 years old are eligible to participate in AMC 10; students through 12th grade and under 19.5 years old may participate in AMC 12. Students who score among the top national participants will be invited to take the American Invitational Mathematics Examination. Top scorers will also receive gift cards. The registration deadline is Wednesday, Nov. 1. For more information, visit: montana.edu/smrc and look for American Mathematics Contest or follow the Science Math Resource Center at: facebook.com/ msusmrc.

vj 14 - October 25, 2023

Winter market comes to Ronan By Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

RONAN — Farmers market season doesn’t end with the good weather this year. Ronan will host a new winter market at the Boys and Girls Club gym on Sundays from Oct. 29 to Jan. 28, 2024 from 12-3 p.m. With added vendors, Winter Market Ronan will be a little larger than the summer markets. “The winter market will be different since it won’t have the warmer weather products so there will be more crafts and other things that can either be made year-round or stay good for the winter months,” said Ronan Farmers Market board member Brianna Ewert. Some of the new winter market vendors are David Sturman with Shady Maple Farms, Hope Dibbles - owner of Lonesome Heritage Farms and The Wagon Wheel and Michelle Walter, owner of Bubble Goat Soap. With the next closest winter market in Missoula, Walter, a primary organizer of the event, is excited to offer a local option. “I hope it allows the community to stay a little more local and allows them to come together during the winter and enjoy some of the products you might not get to see during the summer,” she said. Some of the market offerings planned include meats, lavender bundles, hand-sewn items, fine art/painting, stained glass, knives, baked goods, produce and more. “You will have to come to the event to see everything the winter market has to offer,” Walter said.

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO

Above: winter produce such as squash, syrups and meats are some of the products that will be offered at the new Ronan Winter Market. Left: Hope Dibbles, owner of Lonesome Heritage Farms and The Wagon Wheel will be one of the many market vendors.

BEAU BIGGS PHOTO

Valley Journal

Get a job – earn college credits – make a difference! Full time positions receive the health insurance benefit 12 months a year. Check out the available jobs and detailed job vacancy announcements on the SKC website – www.skc.edu/employment Custodian Part-time Salary Range: $13.21/hr Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Native American Studies Cultural Specialist/Instructor (9 months) Salary Range: $25.01/hr-$29.63/hr DOEE Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 3, 2023; 4:00pm

Part Time Seasonal Grounds Maintenance Salary Range: $11.30 - $13.21 per hour DOE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

College & Career Readiness Coach (3 positions open) Salary range: $17.35/hr-$20.17/hr DOEE Closing Date: Monday, September 11, 2023; 4:00pm

Assistant Director/Lead Teacher – Early Learning Center (10 months, full time) Salary Range: $38,880 - $45,725 Closing Date: Open Until Filled

College & Career Readiness Mentor (3 positions open) Salary Range: $17.35/hr-$20.17/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

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

NYCP College & Career Readiness Instructor (Part time, 9 months) Salary Range: $25.01/hr-$29.63/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

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

Early Learning Center-Assistant Teacher (9.5 months) Salary Range: $15.01/hr-$16.92/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

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

Early Learning Center-Toddler Teacher (9.5 months) Salary range: $15.33/hr-$17.24/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Accounting Tech/Receptionist Salary Range: $14.16 - $14.48 per hour DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Library Assistant (part time) Salary Range: $13.06/hr-$13.93/hr DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Truck Driving Instructor-PT (9 months) Salary Range: $18.19 - $19.53 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Indigenous Research Center (IRC) IRM & M Library & Repository Manager Salary Range: $50,176-$53,696 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

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

Administrative Assistant - TRIO Student Support Services Salary Range: $16.97/hr-$19.15/hr DOEE Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 10, 2023; 4:00pm

Executive Assistant to the President Salary Range: $41,963 - $46,655 DOEE Closing Date: Monday, Oct. 23, 2023; 4:00pm

Facility / Instructional Designer (9 months) Salary Range: $43,823-$46,227 DOEE Closing Date: Monday, Nov. 6, 2023; 4:00pm

Instruction and Outreach Services Librarian Salary Range: $20.17/hr-$21.87/hr DOEE Closing Date: Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023; 4:00pm

Tribal Governance Administration (TGA) Instructor Salary Range: $43,621-$44,670 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Nursing Faculty/Clinical Instructor (10 Months) 2 openings Salary Range: $53,531-$55,935 DOEE Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Prevention Specialist-Community Health & Development Salary Range: $40,789-$44,310 DOEE Closing date: Monday, Oct. 16, 2023; 4:00pm

Nursing Director Salary Range: $75,477 -$77,080 DOEE Closing date: Open Until Filled

Housing Maintenance Technician Salary Range: $31,449-$33,426 DOEE Closing date: Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023; 4:00pm

Graduate Division Dean Salary Range: $59,563-$63,083 DOEE Closing date: Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023; 4:00pm

Academic Transfer Specialist Salary Range: $33,507-$35,307 DOEE Closing date: Monday, Nov. 6, 2023; 4:00pm

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

Valley Journal

October 25, 2023 - 15

Mack Days week five results News from CSKT

FLATHEAD LAKE —Fall Mack Days for 2023 continue with four weeks left in the nine-week long event, that ends on Nov. 12. It is not too late to become involved. Up to $200,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of Fall Mack Days. There are several different ways to win. All you need to do to qualify for the lottery drawings that begin at $2,000 is enter one lake trout. Every fish entered gives anglers a chance to win a drawing or maybe have a tagged lake trout on the line. The events are used as a management tool to reduce the non-native lake trout in Flathead Lake and increase the native bull trout and westslope cutthroat numbers. Total count in the event so far is 11,099 fish with 2,549 from the Monday to Thursday fishing. Friday’s total was 541, Saturday’s was 618, and Sunday’s was 538 for a weekend total of 1,697. The 2022 total at this time was 10,374 and in 2021 the total came to 9,291. Of the 308 anglers entered in this year’s event,102 have turned in one or more lake trout. The $10,000 tagged lake trout “Ghost” is still silently gliding through the waters of Flathead Lake and lake trout anglers are hoping to bring him up at the end of a line. He could be anywhere in Flathead Lake. There are also three-$5,000 and six-$1,000 tagged fish, including one sponsored 16 - October 25, 2023

by Bretz RV and Marine and over 9,000 with values from $100-$500. Winners of $200 tagged lake trout over the fifth week were: Eric Peterson of Kalispell, Tim Mooney of Missoula, and Michael Benson of Lonepine and $100 tags were turned in by Darrin Farrelly of Kalispell, Julie Perkins of Kalispell, Mike Khoudary of Stevensville, Jerry Benson of Plains, Cole Williams of Kalispell, and Michael Benson. There is a new leader in the Top Twenty Category. Felix Gauci of Stevensville is leading the Top Twenty anglers with 849 lake trout entries. His totals for the weekend were 37 on Friday, 51on Saturday, and 54 on Sunday. David Myers of Riverton, Wyoming, is in second place with 839 total entries and weekend numbers of 43, 51, & 33; in third place is Michael Benson with a total of 659 and weekend numbers of 37, 28, & 24; in fourth place is Bob Stewart of Kalispell with a 619 total and weekend numbers of 19, 34, & 25; in fifth place is Jerry Benson of Plains with a total of 509 and weekend numbers of 24, 26, & 34; in sixth place is Jack Kirkland of Lolo with a total of 442 and in seventh place is Larry Ashwell of Missoula with a total 429; in eighth place is Larry Karper of Florence with a total of 376; in ninth place is Scott Bombard of Missoula with a total of 319; in 10th place is Richard Kreis of Huson with a total of 315; in 11th

place is Terry Krogstad of Kalispell with a total of 311; in 12th place is Steve Mack of Helena with a total of 221; in 13th place is Laurie Kreis of Huson with a total of 196; in 14th place is Sam Sacchi of Thompson Falls with a total of 193; in 15th place is Jim Flinchbaugh of Kalispell with a total of 142, in 16th place is Debby Sacchi of Thompson Falls with a total of 133; in 17th place is Claude Kaber of Kalispell with a total of 122; in 18th place is Paul Grove of Wyoming, Illinois with a total of 116; in 19th place is Monte McPherson in Silverdale, Washington with a total of 104; and in 20th place is Julie Perkins with a total of 98. Totals and placing can change fast. Anglers are limited to 100 lake trout per day and the top ten are placed by their best 18-day average at the conclusion of the event. Laurie Kries is leading the Ladies with a total of 196; in second is Debby Sacchi with a total of 133 total; in third place is Julie Perkins with a total of 98; in fourth place is Kim Mack of Helena with 67; and in fifth place is Pamela Simonich of Missoula with14. Paisley and Blaine Helvey of Thompson Falls are in first and second place in the 12 & Under category with 14 each. Zander Oliver of Missoula has five; and with one entry each are Bear Yarrow, Holden Griffin, Ace Whimper of Clinton, Wesley Balavage-Fishtail, Mason Cusker of Bigfork, Valley Journal

and Dawson Peterson of Kalispell. The second day of the Heaviest Bucket of Fish was won by Richard and Laurie Kreis with a bucket weight of 34.65 pounds, in second place is Rick Skates of Big Arm with 28.0 pounds, in third place are Terry Krogstad and Julie Perkins with 22.6 pounds; in fourth place is Monte McPherson with 21.35 pounds; and in fifth place is Sam Cusker of Bigfork with 20.5 pounds. The third day of the Buckets event will be Sunday Nov. 7. There is still no Largest Lake Trout entry. Bretz RV and Marine of Missoula sponsors a $500 prize for the largest lake trout entry. The lake trout has to be over 36 inches and weight at least 20 pounds. Anglers have reported having really large ones on the line but they just have not landed them in the boat. The fifth Weekend Drawings were won by: Julie Perkins who won $200 and for $100 drawings winners were Scott Bombard, Richard Kreis, Claude Kaber of Whitefish, and Jim Flinchbaugh of Kalispell. Go to the website: www. mackdays.com for more information on categories, fishing tips, results, etc. Entries continue to be taken until the last day of the event and there is no entry fee. Contact Cindy Benson at 406-270-3386 for more information and email entries to: cindy.benson@cskt. org. Good luck and tight lines everyone!

Montana reaches 23rd consecutive month of unemployment below 3% News from the office of Governor Gianforte

HELENA – Governor Greg Gianforte recently announced Montana reached its 23rd consecutive month of unemployment below 3%. Prior to the governor taking office, Montana’s unemployment rate had fallen below 3% only three times since record-keeping began 50 years ago. “Thanks to the hard work of job creators and our pro-jobs, pro-business policies, Montanans have more opportunity than ever before to obtain and thrive in a good-paying job – from high tech to the construction trades,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Employees with our Montana work ethic are in high demand, and we’ll continue to develop workforce talent pipelines to meet the needs of industry and our growing economy.” Montanans have created more than 8,400 jobs in 2023 and more than 40,000 jobs since Gov. Gianforte took office in January 2021. In September, Montana’s labor force grew by more than 625 workers, adding more than 8,000 workers since the start of the year. Under Gov. Gianforte’s leadership, more Montanans are working than ever before. Montana’s unemployment rate of 2.7% is more than a percentage point below the national unemployment rate of 3.8% in September. In September, the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) rose 0.4% over-themonth. Shelter and gasoline were again the largest contributor to the monthly all items increase. The 12-month change in the all-items index was 3.7%. The index for all items minus food and energy, also called core inflation, increased by 0.3% for the month. For the year ending in September, core inflation was 4.1%.

Arlee CDC hosts Halloween open house News from Karen Kallestad, Arlee CDC

ARLEE — The Arlee Community Development Corporation will host a Halloween open house on Friday, Oct. 27 from 5-7 p.m. The event will feature a Halloween photo booth, a new art display by the Killdeer Artisans Guild, Halloween treats, appetizers, and other refreshments including soup made with ingredients from the Garden for Life, the community garden sponsored by the Arlee CDC. This is a free event and a great opportunity to learn more about what is happening at the Arlee CDC, meet local artists, eat delicious food and capture your 2023 Halloween photo. “We had an amazing year in our garden,” Marie Hirsch, Executive Director of the Arlee CDC, said. “So far, our garden and six others on the reservation have yielded over 14,500 pounds of produce, with more still to be harvested. We’ll be featuring those fresh vegetables

Golden Apples Remain

in the appetizers we’ll be serving at the open house.” The photo booth will be set up in the bandstand and will feature a classic Halloween backdrop with a friendly witch. Children are encouraged

to attend in costume. After you capture your photo, please take a minute to upload it to the Arlee Community Development Corporation Facebook Page at: https://www.facebook. com/arleecdc.

Valley Journal

The new gallery exhibit is called “Open Your Eyes,” from a line written by Rachel Carlson emphasizing how art is a way of opening your eyes to new experiences and new ways of seeing things. Attendees will

MARTI DE ALVA PHOTO

have an opportunity to meet some of the artists and talk about their work. Everyone is welcome to attend this family-friendly event at the Arlee CDC office at 92555 US Hwy. 93 in Arlee.

October 25, 2023 - 17

obituaries Cheryl Maldonado POLSON — Our dear wife, mother, sister, Nana and friend, Cheryl Rodden Maldonado, 68, of Polson, passed away peacefully in her home with her family by her side on Oct. 16, 2023, following a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer. Cheryl was born in OakCheryl dale, CalMaldonado ifornia, on Jan. 19, 1955, to Grace Marie and Edward William Rodden, each of whom currently reside in Polson. She graduated from Carson High School, Carson City, Nevada, in 1972 after a year abroad as a Rotary Exchange student to Bariloche, Argentina. Cheryl graduated from the University of the Pacific, Covell College, Stockton, California, in 1977 with a dual degree in Political Science and International Business. Full of ambition, she applied for a job with the C.I.A. but settled on a position with the IBM Corporation where she worked in Washington and California. She left IBM in 1981 to follow her dreams of continued travel abroad, residing in Athens, Greece, and then Nice, France, until her 18 - October 25, 2023

return to the States years later. Cheryl met the love of her life, Luis ‘Edgar’ Maldonado, in Reno, Nevada, in 1989. They were married in 1991 and have enjoyed 34 years together as partners in life, in love and in business. Cheryl and Edgar moved from Reno to Las Vegas where they lived for 25 years. Their entrepreneurial spirit was the catalyst in starting Top Quality Maintenance, which grew to include expansion into seven western states. While living in Las Vegas they had their two children, Micha and Nico, whom they raised along with Edgar’s two older daughters, Janina and Jessica. Life in the boisterous Maldonado home was always filled with family, fun and adventure. In 2015, they retired full-time to Montana after falling in love with the community of Polson. Cheryl was known for her selfless heart, welcoming home, infectious laugh, delicious cooking, and mischievous sense of humor. Cheryl had an adventurous spirit and was still planning international trips until the end. Cheryl was a proud 25-year member of The PEO Sisterhood, a philanthropic educational organization for women. She held many offices, including chapter President, during her time with PEO. Upon moving

to Polson, Cheryl became a board member of the Greater Polson Community Foundation and a loyal supporter of St. Joseph’s Hospital in Polson. And with a commitment to fitness, Cheryl was the proud winner of several Senior Olympics medals. Cheryl is survived by her beloved husband Edgar; her daughters, Michelle Maldonado-Salazar (husband Dillon), Janina Maldonado, Jessica Maldonado (husband Jacob), and son, Nicholas Maldonado (wife Marisa; and her six beautiful grandchildren, Poema, Celeste, Harlow, Indie, Matthias, and Marcus. Cheryl also leaves behind her devoted sister, Karen Rodden Taylor (husband Andy); and her dearest friend, Terri Srch; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins from the Rodden, Maldonado and Taylor families. Cheryl was also a dog lover, especially of her two furry children Sophie and Max. A memorial Mass to remember Cheryl will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Polson, at 10 a.m. on Nov. 11, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 13, 2024. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations in Cheryl’s memory be made to The Greater Polson Community Foundation (“GPCF”), The P.E.O. Foundation - Cottey College Project

or any charitable organization of your choice. 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.

Henry Pieper POLSON — Henry John “HJ” Pieper, age 76, died at home with his family on Oct. 12, 2023. He was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Emil John and Zina Madaline Pieper. Henry graduated from Ronan High School in 1966, joining Henry Pieper the US Army and serving in Vietnam the years of 1966-1969. He was employed at Plum Creek for 33 years, then went on to Jore Corporation, Flathead Lock and Safe, and lastly Sod Buster Sales. Henry was preceded in death by his parents, Emil and Zina Pieper and his sisters, Zina Lue McArthur, Irene McArthur, and Judy Matt. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Pieper; and their children and grandchildren, Brenda ( Jamie), Dusty and Harley Shep-

Valley Journal

ard; Sarah (Nathan), Malysa, Ryan (Alexa), Hillary, Kaitlynn, Davyn, and Allyson Lamphere; Scott (Brooke), Colton, William, Jayden, and Shaylee Pieper; Adam (Michelle) Pieper. He also has many nieces and nephews. Services were held on Tuesday, Oct. 17, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Polson. His burial with military honors was held at Lake View Cemetery in Polson. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at: www. lakefuneralandcremation. com. Arrangements are under the care of Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

Richard Johnson RONAN — Richard LeeRoy Johnson of Ronan, passed away, unexpectedly, on Oct. 10, 2023. Richard was born in Laramie, Wyoming, on Oct. 6, 1970. He attended his early elementary school years in Long Beach, California, and then returned to Walden, Richard Colorado, Johnson where he attended until high school. As a teen, he developed a love

for sports and cars. At age 16, Richard moved to Greeley, Colorado, to attend AIMS Community College, where he learned the auto body trade. Richard was extremely proud of his artistic capabilities and demonstrated it in his airbrushing, graphics, pin striping, detailing, and painting of automobiles. Through the years, he also learned several construction trades and owned a drywall business for many years. He then returned to his love of automobiles and has owned a classic car restoration business for several years. In his “free time,” he enjoyed riding Harley Davidson motorcycles and had a grin from ear to ear. Richard’s greatest desire in life was to be a father and have a family of his own. The love and devotion he had for his wife and four boys is undeniable to all that knew him. He enjoyed doing family-related events such as camping, day trips to the lake and anything that allowed him to have fun with his kids. He was often the biggest kid of all! Some of his boys’ fondest moments with their dad include: ( John) going to Texas Roadhouse, helping dad (Mathew) going to basketball and football games, practicing sports together, (Benjamin) “secret trips” when they see page 19

Obituaries from page 18

went to Shriner’s Hospital visits, eating dad’s barbecue, (Abel) wrestling with Dad and drifting the car! Richard has made great contributions to the kids in his community. He has been a friend, mentor, and coach to many. As a coach, he is known for always including every kid regardless of their skill and ability level, encouraging them to focus on having fun and teaching them the true meaning of sportsmanship. Richard is survived by his wife, Crystal Johnson; his four sons, John, Mathew, Benjamin, and Abel; moms, Midge Phillips and Karen Knoll Martin; dads Michael Martin and Richard Orton; brother and sister-in-law, Steven Johnson and Tina Woody; sisters, Brandy Martin, Cynthia Dragonfly; nephews, Stevie Johnson and Tyler Reeves; niece, Tasia Reeves and many other aunts, uncles, great-nephews, cousins, and friends. All that loved him miss him! Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www.shriderthompson.com Arrangements are under the care of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.

Avian influenza confirmed in Montana News from Montana Dept. of Livestock

HELENA — On Tuesday, Oct. 10, the Montana Department of Livestock confirmed Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in a Glacier County poultry flock. This is Montana’s 18th affected flock linked to the ongoing national HPAI outbreak which began in early 2022. The Department is also awaiting confirmation of a backyard flock in Flathead County. The last confirmed HPAI infection in Montana was April 2023. This HPAI variant is spread from migratory waterfowl and infections in domestic poultry follow the spring and fall migrations. This pattern is consistent with detec-

tions in South Dakota, Idaho, and New Jersey, as well as Canada and several other countries, in the last 30 days as the fall migration is underway. In early September, in anticipation of an increased risk of exposure associated with the fall migration, MDOL reinstated guidance for poultry owners to house birds indoors to the extent possible and to avoid exposure to wild birds. Domestic poultry become infected through direct contact with infected wild birds, or through contact with contaminated objects, equipment, or the environment. This directive will remain in place until May 2024 pending the HPAI situation at that time. Avian influenza is an infectious viral disease

of birds that can cause high mortality rates in domestic flocks. Sick birds can exhibit numerous signs such as swollen eyes, discolored comb and legs, or a significant drop in egg production or water and feed consumption. However, the most consistent presentation has been sudden death of multiple birds within a flock. Samples from flocks with increased mortalities or unusual symptoms are submitted to the Montana Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and tested for the presence of avian influenza. Infected flocks are placed under quarantine

until the Department is sure that the premises is free of virus either through cleaning and disinfection or time. Flock owners whose birds are depopulated as part of the process are eligible to receive indemnity from the United States Department of Agriculture. Depopulation of the Glacier County flock is underway. In addition to restrictions on the affected flock, the Department will conduct disease surveillance of poultry premises within 20 km of the affected premises. Surveillance includes contact with premises to inquire about any sick birds and weekly

sampling for premises that may sell poultry or poultry products. The Department encourages all poultry producers to maintain strong biosecurity and immediately report sudden onset of illness or high death loss in domestic poultry to their veterinarian or the Department at 406-444-2976. If you find sick or dead wild birds that have died from unknown causes, please contact your local FWP Warden, Biologist or Regional office, or call the FWP wildlife veterinarian 406-577-7880. While HPAI is consee page 20

HATE YOUR CPAP?

Family-run Newspaper For Sale in beautiful northwest Montana $1.25

your homegrown newspaper October 11, 2023

Vol. 20, No. 4

Pumpkins fall from sky at St. Ignatius airport

Unique fundraiser collects money for annual fireworks show Town council pg. 5

Transit app pg. 6

Sports pg. 16

Story and photos by Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — The community came together on Saturday, Oct. 7, to watch pumpkins drop out of an airplane at the St. Ignatius Airport. The event was held as a fundraiser for next year’s Good Old Days fireworks show. Blackfoot Communication and the Brett Thoft Memorial Foundation sponsored the event along with several others. The Brett Thoft Memorial Foundation was giving out coats for any child who needed one. There were also plenty of things for the kids to do at the event, including face painting. Apple bobbing drew in participants as folks dunked their heads into a barrel of water and at-

tempted to bite into an apple, no hands allowed. Another line was filled with people waiting for

the free barbeque with burgers and hot dogs. To win at the pumpkin drop, participants needed

to buy a ticket. Pumpkins were then dropped out of the airplane and landed on a square with numbers. If a person’s ticket matched the number the pumpkin landed on, they won $250. Pilot Mike Kuefler said, “There was a lot of planning that went into dropping the pumpkins. You have to be at the

Offering alternative sleep apnea treatments.

right height and stay at a consistent speed (while flying) or the pumpkin will miss, and then, we have to make another pass.” During drop four, the airplane made a couple passes before finally getting the pumpkin on target. To drop a pumpkin, it takes three people: the

see page 2

w w w.va l l e yj ou r na l.ne t

H NICOLE TAVENNER PHOTO

• Award-winning weekly newspaper • Well established advertising, subscriber base, website & social media following • 19 years in business • Beautiful place to work & live • QR code links to full listing details

PPO Insurance Accepted

Call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation

1-406-883-5544 102 1st Ave East • Polson

w w w. va l l ey j o u r n a l . n e t Valley Journal

October 25, 2023 - 19

seniors Ronan By Donna Daniels for the Valley Journal

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

Avian flu from page 19

sidered a potentially zoonotic disease, CDC continues to consider the risk to people from wild birds, backyard flocks, and commercial poultry to be low. Public health recommends wearing gloves when handling dead poultry or wild birds and washing hands thoroughly after any contact with birds. Existing safeguards to keep food safe and wholesome are sufficient to protect people, and the food supply in the United States is one of the safest in the world. As a reminder, the US Department of Agriculture recommends cooking poultry to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

vj 20 - October 25, 2023

We are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for lunch and other activities. Our menu: — Wednesday, Oct. 25: soup, sandwiches, salad, dessert — Friday, Oct. 27: birthday dinner, roast beef, salad, dessert — Monday, Oct. 30: sloppy Joes, salad, dessert — Wednesday, Nov. 1: taco bar, salad, Dessert On Oct. 30 and Nov. 13, Bailey Insurance will be here from 10 a.m.noon, to discuss Medicare open enrollment. Eve from St. Luke audiology will be here on Oct. 25. We are having a bazaar and bake sale on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 10 a.m.-4pm. If you are interested in a table, call us at 406-676-2371, Monday, Wednesday or Friday. The Ronan Senior Center is available for renting for your events. Call us if you are having an event and need a location to have it. We are looking for help again. If you are interested, please stop in. Pinochle is played every Monday from 3:30-6 p.m. at the senior center. Everyone is welcome. We also have pool table available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Come join the fun. Everyone is welcome to our meals no matter what

your age. We ask for a $7 donation for our Monday, Wednesday and Friday meals and $10 for our Sunday meal. If you would like a meal delivered to your business just call us by 10 a.m. Also, we will gladly send you a menu if requested. Our Sunday dinner is changing to the second Sunday of the month.

Polson By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — The hallowed evening before All Saints’ Day is coming up on Tuesday, as if you needed a reminder. I buy those mixed candy bags. I sort out all the ones that have mostly orange wrapping for myself and give the kids the other brands when they threaten me with a prank. There is a gift in giving, but I have a limit. Due to increasing meal deliveries, we have added another route and need help from more volunteer drivers. Now. One day, a few days, or all week. Your choice. Please. A cafeteria cook position is available now with wage DOE. Contact Kaye at the Polson Senior Center. Baily Insurance is offering information and assistance for Medicare, prescription drug

and supplement plans on Oct. 30 and Nov. 13 from 1-3 p.m. at the senior center. Activities: Bowling - Tuesdays at 1 p.m. for $13 - open group - no weekly commitment Bingo - $100 payout at bingo games - Fridays at 7 p.m. - “Playing Card” bingo 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month Exercise - sitting or standing - M- W- F at 10:30–11:30 a.m. - video-assisted self-guidance. Pinochle played on Thursdays noon-3 p.m. We had 11 players last week. Pool - open table from 8a.m.-3 p.m. Bridge - inquire at the center to sign up VA Rep: first Friday (Nov. 3) and third Tuesday (Nov. 21) of each month 10 a.m.-noon Menu (subject to change): A suggested donation of $5 for your meal will help support the Nutrition Program. We serve lunch from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - sit-down or takeout; call by 10 a.m. for delivery or for grab-n-go — Wednesday, Oct. 25: taco salad, black bean salad, cherry cheesecake — Thursday, Oct. 26; Polish dogs, mac and cheese, corn, sauerkraut salad, banana pudding — Friday, Oct. 27; birthday dinner for lunch - roast pork with all

Valley Journal

the trimmings, apple salad, cake — Monday, Oct. 30: Navy bean and ham, soup — Tuesday, Oct. 31: Halloween scary cat chicken ghost dressing, bloody beets, frog eye salad, pumpkin cake — Wednesday, Nov. 1: Goulash, corn, garlic bread, green salad, pudding We are located at 504 Third Ave. E and open from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. on weekdays call 406-8834735 or email us at: polsonseniorcenter@ gmail.com. Visit us on Facebook.

St. Ignatius By Barb Plouffe for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — If anyone likes to read, we have a large variety of books to be given out. If you are interested in checking out our collection, please stop by on the days we are open. If you know of any group that is giving bibles away, we have some to donate. We have a large variety of puzzles that you can have, if interested. There are some in the entryway that is open or more available on the inside of the center. Come on the days we are open and pick up a couple. Thank you to all that came to our Bingo Day on Saturday. We will be having another Bingo

Day on Nov. 4 at 2 p.m. The center is collecting coats, scarves, mittens/ gloves and socks for elementary and middle school kids. We are accepting new and slightly used items. Help us keep kids warm during the winter. The AARP Driving course will be held on Oct. 27 at 1 p.m. Please call 405-745-4462 and leave message if you want to attend. Our cooks continue to make a variety of good tasting meals using local produce. We invite everyone to come and enjoy one of our meals or call for a takeout meal. Please call 406-745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays and by 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Mealtimes are listed below. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the center. Menu: — Friday, Oct 20: noon - baked fish, broccoli salad, rolls, pears — Tuesday, Oct. 24: noon - taco bake, refried beans, corn chips, fruit salad, zucchini bread — Friday, Oct. 27: noon - chili, fry bread with huckleberry butter, corn/pepper salad, carrot cake — Tuesday, Oct. 31: noon - porcupine meatballs, green beans, rolls, orange carrot Jell-O We invite you to besee page 21

births Holt Alfiero RONAN — Holt Sherman Alfiero was born on Oct. 18, 2023, at the St. Luke New Beginnings Birth Center. He measured 8 Holt pounds, Alfiero 1 ounce and 20.5 inches long. Parents are

Jesse and Madison Alfiero of Polson. Paternal grandparents are Rob and Nancy Alfiero of Polson. Maternal grandparents are Lowell and Jane Mansfield of Polson.

Jhett Peterson RONAN —Jhett Richard Dean Peterson was born Oct. 17, 2023, at the St. Luke Community Healthcare New Beginnings Birth Center. He measured 4 pounds,

13 ounces and 18 inches long. Parents are Nache Bettencourt and Jonathan Peterson of Polson. Jhett Paternal Peterson grandparents are Sheila Peterson and the late Richard Peterson of Polson. Maternal grandparents are Jessie and Shirley Bettencourt of Ronan.

Flathead Transit

Missoula • Pablo • Kalispell • Whitefish

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Bus leaves at scheduled times.

Pablo

10:00 AM from page 20

come a member of the St. Ignatius Senior Citizen Center for a fee of $10 a year. You can join us at any age. The Foot Hills Club meets the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 1 p.m. for snacks and cards. Gently Yoga is held on Wednesdays 1-2:15 p.m. If you are interested, please call Bonnie Kiser at 406-253-0177. Her rates are five sessions for $60. We have walkers, a commode, a shower chair, a wheelchair, a high-rise toilet seat, 4-prong canes, regular canes, and a transfer bench to loan out as well as XXL Depends to be given out at no cost for the items that are loaned out.

Our senior center is open to people renting it. If interested, call 406-745-4462 and leave a message. The Senior Center has a computer that is available for use by the public. If you are interested in using the computer, come in on Tuesdays or Fridays between 10 a.m.-1 p.m. or call and leave a message

and we can plan for a different time. We will return your call. If you need help with other areas of your life such as: transportation, respite, home health services, or other information call the friendly people at Lake County Council on Aging in Ronan at 406-6762367.

A S S O C I AT I O N

1660 W Broadway St • 406-549-2339

Evaro

11:50 AM

20750 US Hwy 93, Missoula• 406-726-3778

Arlee

12:00 PM

92345 US Hwy 93, Arlee• 406-726-7777

Flag Stop

27330 US Hwy 93, Ravalli• 406-275-2877

12:15 PM

240 Mnt View Dr, St. Ignatius• 406-745-3634

1:00 PM

52001 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-275-2792

Ravalli

Saint Ignatius Pablo

Polson

1:25 PM

43 N E W S PA P E R

Missoula

11:30 AM

PARTICIPATING NEWSPAPERS

Seniors

52001 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-275-2792

49708 US Hwy 93, Polson• 406-883-3636

Lakeside

2:10 PM

7170 US Hwy 93, Pablo• 406-844-3372

NEW

2:30 PM LOCATION!

JOIN MONTANA’S EFFECTIVE Statewide Online Advertising Program (SOAP)

250,000 $1,499

IMPRESSIONS FOR

3:10 PM

Kalispell / Evergreen

195 3rd Ave. E, west side of Smith Foods• 406-755-7447

Whitefish

#9 Spokane Ave., Whitefish• 406-275-2721

7:30 PM 7:05 PM 6:50 PM Flag Stop 6:30 PM 6:00 PM 5:30 PM 4:55 PM 4:30 PM 4:00 PM

For Information Call Flathead Transit • 406-675-5000 weekends • Busses run 7Transit days a week. 406-275-2792 weekdays For more information call Flathead

Weekdays: 406-275-2792 Weekends: 406-675-5000

CALL: 406.443.2850 DETAILS: mtnewspapers.com

Valley Journal

October 25, 2023 - 21

calendar Wednesday, Oct. 25 Mission Fire Board to meet

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

Reaching for the sun

Street. This group provides a sense of community and fellowship with those who are interested in creating and crafting. All are welcome. For more information call Carol at 406-2151604, ext. 2 or email cmadden@summitilc.org.

ST. IGNATIUS — The regular meeting of the St. Ignatius Rural Fire District Board will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 25, at 6 p.m. in the Fire Hall meeting room. For further information contact Chairman Tim Callahan at 406-745-4112.

Explore small business cybersecurity

Irrigators to meet in Ronan RONAN — The Flathead Irrigation District will hold their monthly meeting on Oct. 25, at 1 p.m. upstairs at Mission West Community Development Partners, 407 Main Street SW. Please note the November and December meetings will be combined and held Nov. 6. Same time, same location.

Library’s Page Turners to meet POLSON — On Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 3:30-4:30 p.m. North Lake County Public Library’s Page Turners Youth Book Club will meet. Come join us as we read and discuss “The Girl Who Drank the Moon,” by Kelly Barnhill. Pick up your free copy from the library and we will meet to discuss the book on Wednesday, Oct. 25, at 3:30 p.m. All meetings are currently being held at the library’s temporary location: 301 16th Ave. E (First United Methodist Church Building).

22 - October 25, 2023

MARTY HENSEL PHOTO

Closeup of some final blooms.

Mission Mountain Zen offers free online meditation classes ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. Please join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays for an online meditation class led by Zen Teacher, Zenku. Classes include meditation instruction, practice and discussion via Zoom. The

classes will be each Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m. We will cultivate and deepen our centering skills and meditation practice during the class. Please join us and take advantage of this opportunity. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847-721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@ gmail.com.

Thursday, Oct. 26 Jump start your day POLSON — Mission West Community Development will partner with Polson Chamber of Commerce at Maxine’s, 325 Main Street, on Thursday, Oct. 26, from 8-9 a.m. Come chat, network, learn about services and have a cup of coffee on us. Learn about business loans, support, plans;

Valley Journal

establishing accounting and financial systems; business management and planning; workshops, and training.

Free ‘arts, crafts’ class held by Summit Independent Living RONAN — Summit Independent Living holds a free “Arts and Crafts” class on Thursdays from 1-3 p.m. at its Ronan office located at 124 Main

KALISPELL — Flathead Valley Community College’s Continuing Education Center is hosting free community lectures, and no registration is necessary. Lectures are held in the Arts & Technology building, room 139. Explore small business cybersecurity fundamentals and practical strategies to protect your business from cyber threats with a lecture on “Cybersecurity for small business.” Topics include risk assessment, employee awareness and training, secure network infrastructure, data protection and backup, incident response planning, vendor and third-party risk management, and regulatory compliance. Learn about the unique challenges small businesses face and leave with actionable insights to implement effective security measures and mitigate potential risks necessary to safeguard your business and customer data. For more information about FVCC’s Continuing Education fall class offerings, visit: fvcc.edu/ ContinuingEducation. see page 22

Calendar from page 22

Friday, Oct. 27 Next Pachyderm meeting held POLSON — The next Pachyderm meeting will be on Friday, Oct. 27, at noon at the Polson Rural Fire Station. The speaker will be Henry Kriegel, the Legislative Director at Americans for Prosperity, which is a national grassroots organization promoting policies that increase freedom and opportunity for all. Henry has served for AFP for 12 years and is honored to serve as their lead lobbyist. Previously, Henry was a co-founder of the Bozeman Tea Party and the Montana Tea Party Coalition. He also served as a talk show host for TownSquare Media in Bozeman. Henry will discuss the 2023 Legislative Scorecard - how your legislators voted and scored. This is important as we head into the 2024 elections. It tells how government officials are supporting their constituents.

Get ready for Ladies Night Out POLSON — Get ready for Ladies Night Out. Grab your gals for an evening of shopping, food, drinks, and deals. Costumes encouraged. Do you like to shop and support all that is local? Come downtown and pick up your $5 Savings Pass for “Ladies Night Out” on Oct. 27 from 4-8 p.m. You can use it at all participating businesses to get $5 off your purchase of $25 or more. The pass is free, but we only have a limited supply available, so hit up those shops soon to claim yours in time. A list of participating businesses will be available soon.

Arlee CDC hosts Halloween open house ARLEE — The Arlee Community Development Corporation will host a Halloween open house on Friday, Oct. 27 from 5-7 p.m. The event will feature a Halloween photo booth, a new art display by the Killdeer Artisans Guild, Halloween treats, appetizers, and other refreshments including soup made with ingredients from the Garden for Life, the community garden sponsored by the Arlee CDC. This is a free event and a great opportunity to learn more about what is happening at the Arlee CDC, meet local artists, eat delicious food and capture your 2023 Halloween photo.

Saturday, Oct. 28 Final free Indigenous Film Series movie POLSON — The Flathead Reservation Human Rights Coalition will sponsor a free film in their 7th Indigenous Film Series at the Showboat Stadium 6 in Polson at 1 p.m. on Oct. 28. “Attla” is the untold story of Alaska Native dogsled racing champion George Attla and his resilience and his legacy.

Tuesday, Oct. 31 You’re invited to join Trunk-or-Treat RONAN — Mission Mountain Holdings is hosting the second annual Ronan Trunk-Or-Treat on Oct. 31, 4:30-8 p.m. at the Ronan Lake County Fair Grounds, 300 3rd Ave. NW. Our goal is to provide a safe, fun trickor-treating experience for kids while giving businesses the opportunity to positively impact local families. We are giving businesses the oppor-

tunity to participate by setting up a Trunk (sign up by Oct. 25) and passing out candy to our community’s youngsters. Set up begins at noon. Sponsoring by Oct.13 with $100 gets recognition on Facebook, $300 gets your name on a banner and on TVs at the event’s center and $500 will additionally receive radio recognition … great ways to advertise. MMH will provide a table for water, apple cider, and hot chocolate. There will also be gift giveaways. 4-H will have a petting zoo set and a game center in the barn and the Ronan Wrestling Club will do face painting. Participation is free. Profits go to Lake County 4-H Clubs. The best decorated Trunk will receive a catered meal to their business. For more information contact Bryla at 406-880-6669 or bryla@mission-mountain. com.

Trick or treat at library POLSON — Trick or treat at North Lake County Public Library’s temporary location, 301 16th Ave. E (First United Methodist Church Building). Come to the library anytime during open hours of 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 31, to share your costume and get a treat. Library staff will be ready with costumes and candy. All ages welcome. Happy Halloween.

Wednesday, Nov. 1 Mission Mountain Zen offers free online meditation classes ZOOM — Mission Mountain Zen is offering free online meditation classes. Please join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays for an online meditation class led by Zen Teacher, Zenku. Classes include meditation instruction, practice and discussion Valley Journal

via Zoom. The classes will be each Wednesday from 6-7:30 p.m. We will cultivate and deepen our centering skills and meditation practice during the class. Please join us and take advantage of this opportunity. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847-721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@gmail. com.

Thursday, Nov. 2 Library makes available Zoom production POLSON — The Montana Library Network Virtual Program, “Logic and Magic with Jon Turk” can be seen on Thursday, Nov. 2, from 6:30-8 p.m. This is a virtual program on Zoom that is free and open to all. You must register to receive the link. Register at: https://tinyurl.com/jonturkMT. Dr. Jon Turk earned a Ph.D. in chemistry in 1971 and was nominated by National Geographic as one of the Top Ten Adventurers of the Year in 2012. Between these bookends, Jon co-authored the first environmental science textbook in North America, followed by 35 additional texts. At the same time, he kayaked around Cape Horn, across the North Pacific, and around Ellesmere Island. He has mountain biked across the Gobi in Mongolia and made first ski descents and first rock climbing ascents around the globe. In Siberia, Jon’s worldview was altered by Moolynaut, a Siberian shaman, and his later books reflect these spiritual journeys. Go to our website for a complete description of this program.

Regulary Scheduled Meetings The Polson City Commission meets every first and third Mondays (Wednesday, if the Monday falls on a holiday) of the month at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 106 1st Street East. Meetings are open to the public. St. Ignatius City Council meets the first Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 12 First Ave. 406-745-3791 Ronan City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m., 207 Main Street SW, Ste A. 406-676-4231 Lake County Commissioners, 106 Fourth Ave. E, room 211, (Lake County Courthouse) 406-883-7278, Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. The Ronan School District No. 30 Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled board meetings once a month. They meet the second Monday of every month in the K. William Harvey Elementary Multi-Purpose Room. Regular meetings begin at 7 p.m. The Polson School District No. 23 Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled board meetings once a month. Meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the District Office, 111 4th Ave. E, 406-883-6345. The Charlo School District 7J B Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled meetings on the third Thursday of every month. Meetings are held in the school library, 404 1st Ave. W, and begin at 7 p.m. The phone number is 406-644-2206. Arlee School District No. 8 Board of Trustees meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Arlee School library, 72220 Fyant Street, 406726-3216. St. Ignatius School No. 28 Board of Trustees meet on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the school library, 76 Third Ave., 406-745-3811. Valley View Elementary School District 35, 42448 Valley View Road, 406-883-2208.

October 25, 2023 - 23

PUZZLES GIANT CROSSWORD 2

27 31

81 89 93

100

101

106

107

108

110

111

SUDOKU

103

104

105

Place the digits 1-9 in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box contains each digit once only.

8 7 1 2 5 1 6 3 2 3 9 6 7 9 2 8 2 3 9 6 1 4 8

3 2 8 9 4 9

24 - October 25, 2023

102

73 77

109

78 85

33 38

WORDSEARCH

ACROSS 1. Annoyances 6. Break away 12. Bathrobe ties 18. Statement or principle 19. 33rd president 20. Country in Northern Europe 22. Exhaustive 23. Waylay 24. Body of water 25. Flower displayed at Christmas 27. African antelope 29. Cares for deeply 30. Not set 32. “High” time 33. Took the cake, say 34. Barely gets, with “out” 35. Bit 36. Arise 38. “M*A*S*H” role 40. _ Antonio 41. “No ___!” 42. Slushy snow 43. Source of natural light 44. Ivory source 45. Ceremonial Maori dance 46. Sorry 50. Anaheim team 53. Like Helvetica, e.g. 56. Dig 57. Dainty embroidered mat 58. Drove 59. Affair 60. ___-bodied 61. Bank deposit 62. Engine sound

63. Aardvark fare 64. Rip 65. Fifteenth day in the Roman month 66. Fey 68. “What are the ___?” 69. “Odyssey” enchantress 70. Alliance 71. Tapes 73. Shuttered up 74. Ladies of Spain 76. Desiccated 77. Bookbinding leather 78. Bit of paronomasia 79. Ira Gershwin creation 81. Oil source 82. “Wanna ___?” 85. Computer communication device 88. Minimal 89. Like some memories 90. Airport pickup 91. Versatile vehicle, for short 92. Backside 93. Correct, as text 95. Light green plums 96. Theatre workers 100. Meets 102. Ago 103. Basic hydrocarbon 105. Brute 106. Administer an oath 107. Bestowed abundantly 108. Crops up 109. Devoted 110. ___ Beach, South Carolina 111. Criticizes harshly

DOWN 1. Lummox 2. Animate 3. Don’t throw them at glass houses 4. Bridge support 5. Fill 6. ___ of limitations 7. Fur source 8. High-quality cigar 9. Australian runner 10. Hurtle 11. Better 12. Pie chart part 13. Doughy 14. Attempt 15. Edge 16. The Muses, e.g. 17. Rest of the afternoon 18. Sappy trees 21. Change 26. Deception 28. Beat badly 31. Yellow parts 35. Fail to see 37. “Cut it out!” 38. Same old, same old 39. Disney forte 41. As expected 42. Beach, basically 43. Examines closely 44. Viewing apparatus 45. Creator of Uncle Remus 46. UK pub orders 47. Threads 48. Loosen, in a way 49. Looked lecherously 50. Improvises 51. Noggin 52. Bible giver 53. Drudges 54. Got around 55. Mangles

R U M P E L S T I L T S K I N Y P D A P U S S I N B O O T S Y W I L N D B M V O Y I O N L N G Z L A E L G I F H D L K I G Z F E S P E T D C T E C F T A O N R Y N Z U B P Z A L R T L A L E E L O I Q N J E M O L F Q G D D X S W U W S S M G E K A U N I B L P W N O T F P M G U Y I E L A U A H H N Y R E I R J C N R O H C U I H S I R X R E H H E F C M B Z T E N M L Q P T O A F B K E R Q E C A G O L D E N G O O S E Y L E I D I A N I L E B M U H T R Q D Valley Journal Valley Journal

58. Luau dances 62. Ice cream flavor 67. Approaches 68. Auditory 69. The Kennedys, e.g. 72. Humdrum 73. 128 cubic feet 75. Caribbean spirit 77. Sonata section 79. Economical 80. Part of a sail support 81. Yield 82. Mardi Gras setting, with “the” 83. Surfaces 84. Chucks 85. Dreams 86. Pontiac, e.g. 87. More loved 88. Absorbed, in a way 89. Anise kin 90. Baltic republic 92. Bonn’s river 94. Destined 95. Distort 97. Garden bloom, informally 98. De Valera’s land 99. Cut down 101. Amer. fliers 104. White wine aperitif

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

Fairy Tales

CINDERELLA FROG PRINCE GOLDEN GOOSE GOLDILOCKS GRETEL HANSEL JACK LITTLE MERMAID

PUSS IN BOOTS RAPUNZEL RUMPELSTILTSKIN SNOW QUEEN SNOW WHITE THUMBELINA TOM THUMB

October 25, 2023 - 25 ge ct sele bevera &

GfEsnacks HiU n s!! o o

Full Service Espresso Bar GIANT CROSSWORD

38. Rut, 39. Animation, 41. Duly, 42. Sand, 43. Sifts, 44. Telescope, 45. Harris, 46. Pints, 47. Fibers, 48. Unlace, 49. Leered, 50. Ad-libs, 51. Noodle, 52. Gideon, 53. Serfs, 54. Evaded, 55. Rends, 58. Hulas, 62. Pecan, 67. Nears, 68. Otic, 69. Clan, 72. Trite, 73. Cord, 75. Rum, 77. Rondo, 79. Lean, 80. Yardarm, 81. Concede, 82. Big Easy, 83. Emerges, 84. Tosses, 85. Muses, 86. Ottawa, 87. Dearer, 88. Learnt, 89. Fennel, 90. Latvia, 92. Rhein, 94. Meant, 95. Gnarl, 97. Glad, 98. Eire, 99. Slay, 101. USAF, 104. Kir.

MIRROR IMAGE D

675-5000 Monday- Friday 6 a.m. - 9 p.m. Saturday & Sunday 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

7 days a week

Across: 1. Pests, 6. Secede, 12. Sashes, 18. Mantra, 19. Truman, 20. Estonia, 22. All-out, 23. Ambush, 24. Channel, 25. Poinsettia, 27. Hartebeest, 29. Loves, 30. Runny, 32. Noon, 33. Ate, 34. Ekes, 35. Mite, 36. Occur, 38. Radar, 40. San, 41. Dice, 42. Sleet, 43. Sun, 44. Tusk, 45. Haka, 46. Pitiful, 50. Angels, 53. Sans serif, 56. Mine, 57. Doily, 58. Herd, 59. Event, 60. Able, 61. Lode, 62. Purr, 63. Ants, 64. Tear, 65. Ides, 66. Elfin, 68. Odds, 69. Circe, 70. Bloc, 71. Cassettes, 73. Closed, 74. Se oras, 76. Arid, 77. Roan, 78. Pun, 79. Lyric, 81. Corn, 82. Bet, 85. Modem, 88. Least, 89. Fond, 90. Limo, 91. Ute, 92. Rear, 93. Emend, 95. Gages, 96. Stagehands, 100. Encounters, 102. Earlier, 103. Alkane, 105. Savage, 106. Swear in, 107. Rained, 108. Arises, 109. Ardent, 110. Myrtle, 111. Flays. Down: 1. Palooka, 2. Enliven, 3. Stones, 4. Truss, 5. Sate, 6. Statute, 7. Ermine, 8. Cuban, 9. Emu, 10. Dash, 11. Enhance, 12. Sector, 13. Ashen, 14. Stab, 15. Hone, 16. Ennead, 17. Siesta, 18. Maples, 21. Alter, 26. Trick, 28. Rout, 31. Yolks, 35. Miss, 37. Cease,

Valley Journal Valley Journal

51999 US 93 • PABLO (near the walking bridge in Pablo)

TAKE A BREAK!

QUICKSILVER EXPRESSO

Come in for: • Soup & Sandwiches • Coffee Bar • Free Wi-Fi • Ice Cream • Car Wash & Vacuum • Laundromat • ATM • Flathead Transit/ Jefferson Line connect SUDOKU 7 1 9 8 2 3 5 4 6

2 5 6 4 7 9 3 8 1

4 3 8 6 1 5 9 2 7

6 2 4 9 8 7 1 3 5

1 9 5 2 3 4 6 7 8

3 8 7 1 5 6 4 9 2

5 7 2 3 4 1 8 6 9

8 6 3 5 9 2 7 1 4

9 4 1 7 6 8 2 5 3

WORDSEARCH R U M P E L S T I L T S K I N Y P D A P U S S I N B O O T S Y W I L N D B M V O Y I O N L N G Z L A E L G I F H D L K I G Z F E S P E T D C T E C F T A O N R Y N Z U B P Z A L R T L A L E E L O I Q N J E M O L F Q G D D X S W U W S S M G E K A U N I B L P W N O T F P M G U Y I E L A U A H H N Y R E I R J C N R O H C U I H S I R X R E H H E F C M B Z T E N M L Q P T O A F B K E R Q E C A G O L D E N G O O S E Y L E I D I A N I L E B M U H T R Q D

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

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

DOT-TO-DOT

PUZZLES

MIRROR IMAGE

classifieds Announcements Wanted Switch and save up to $250/ year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time offer - get $50 off on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more information, call 1-877-324-0193 Dish Network: Only from Dish- 3 year TV Price Guarantee! 99% Signal Reliability, backed by guarantee. Includes Multi-Sport with NFL Redzone. Switch and Get a FREE $100 Gift Card. Call today! 1-855-995-3572 Donating your vehicle? Get more! Free Towing. Tax Deductible. Plus a $200 restaurant voucher and a 2-night/3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations. Call Heritage for the Blind to donate your vehicle today - 1-855-901-2620

The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma (or equivalent). Three (3) or more years’ or either education in an accounting field, or on-the job work experience in accounting. Current Incident Qualifications as a Personnel Time Recorder (PTRC) and/or Equipment Time Recorder (EQTR) is preferred but not required. Must possess and maintain a valid Montana State driver’s license for vehicle operation and be insurable under the Tribes’ insurance policy. This position is subject to Pre-Hire Drug Testing Condition of Hire requirements, under the CSKT Tribal Drug and Alcohol Policy. In order to function on Incident Management Teams, a current Incident Qualifications ‘Red” Card is required and must be updated annually, as well as annual Physical Examination, as mandated by your fire position, must be completed.

Salary is $22.37 per hour starting including benefits. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copies of relevant transcripts and/ or certificates, proof of a valid Montana driver’s license and current proof of insurance to the Tribal Personnel Department or call 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or csktribes.org website for an application. Closing date Thursday, November 9, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and will be required to serve a six month probationary period. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. ACCOUNTING TECHNICIAN (FURLOUGHABLE) DIVISION OF FIRE

PABLO, MT The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Three (3) or more years’ work experience in accounts payable or an equivalent position. Current qualifications as a Personnel Time Recorder (PTRC) and/ or Equipment Time Recorder (EQTR) is preferred but not required. Must maintain a valid Montana State driver’s license for vehicle operations. This position is subject to pre-hire drug testing, condition of hire requirements under the Tribal Drug and Alcohol Policy. In order to perform in fire suppression positions, a current red card must be updated and a medical standards physical examination must be completed, if needed. Salary starting at $18.06 per hour including benefits. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copies

of relevant transcripts and/ or certificates, proof of a valid Montana driver’s license to the Tribal Personnel Department or call 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or csktribes.org website for an application. Closing date Thursday, November 9, 2023 @ 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and will be required to serve a six month probationary period. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Legals Legals Ann L. Moderie MODERIE LAW FIRM, PLLC P.O. Box 1180

Presenting Senior Healthcare That Understands Being Senior.

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

Greater Good Health, the healthcare seniors deserve.

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

Employment

Call us today!

Help wanted

(406) 319-3169

FINANCIAL SPECIALIST DIVISION OF FIRE PABLO, MT 26 - October 25, 2023

Valley Journal

Polson, Montana 59860 (406) 883-2332 (888) 454-5939 (Fax) ann@moderielaw.com AT TO R N E Y F O R P E R S O N A L REPRESENTATIVE MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLES M. HARTSOCH, Deceased. PROBATE NO.: DP-23-65 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) see page 27

public notices

Donate Your Car

Imagine the Difference You Can Make Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and the proceeds help provide services to help the blind and visually impaired.

Court, Lake County

Legals cont’d from pg. 26 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/ Sarah Bird SARAH BIRD Personal Representative Estate of Charles M. Hartsoch, Deceased Oct. 25, Nov. 1 and 8, 2023 MNAXLP Montana 20th Judicial District

• • • •

✔ a $200 restaurant voucher

AMENDED NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

REACH

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Nancy Jeane Allen to Nancy Jeane Whalen. The hearing will be on December 7, 2023, at 10:00 am. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Lake County. Date: October 16, 2023 Lyn Fricker Clerk of District Court

T HE 2 X 2 ad measures 3.7” horizontal by 2” vertical

/s/ Mary Rensvold Deputy Clerk of Court

CALL TODAY (866) 585-6456

406 FOR

406

d o n’t get

left

BO%GO F/F1 40ER ENO DS 1 0 3

in the

dark

855-886-0335

Service Directory ADVERTISE HERE!

211 Main Street Polson, MT (406) 883-4368 • (406) 883-9250

as low as $25 per week (4-week commitment)

Call 676-8989 for details

read public notices www.MontanaPublicNotices.com

YOUR MESSAGE

FOR ALL YOUR ACCOUNTING NEEDS

FIDUCIARY INCOME TAX PREPARATION FINANCIAL STATEMENT PREPARATION QUARTERLY REPORTS INDIVIDUAL AND BUSINESS INCOME TAX PREPARATION BOOKKEEPING PAYROLL

at one of 50 locations

Get A Vision Screening Annually

OFF

✔ a 2-night, 3-day hotel stay

Help Prevent Blindness

Oct. 25, Nov. 1, 8, and 15, 2023 MNAXLP

Veterans Pension Survivors or Lifeline Benefits Tribal Assistance Program Housing Assistance

Call 1-855-901-2620

2X2 $406 | 2x3 $650 | 2X4 $1,100 | 2X5 $1,500

Connect Anywhere, Anytime. Medicaid SNAP SSI WIC

When you donate your car, you’ll receive:

Montana’s statewide advertising network 60 Newspapers REACH 400,000+ readers each week 1 low cost

Cause No: DV-23-164 Dept. No.: 2002

• • • •

STATEWIDE ADVERTISING

In the matter of the Name Change of Nancy Jeane Allen; Nancy Jeane Allen, Petitioner.

FREE TOWING & TAX DEDUCTIBLE

SDAP: Statewide DISPLAY Advertising Program ads (images, graphics, logos and text) start at just $406 per week… that’s less than $7 per newspaper!

• 24 hour Towing Service • Provide for all major towing clubs • Jump starts, lock outs, fuel delivery 607 3RD AVE NW, RONAN 676-3961

Valley Journal

October 25, 2023 - 27

CAUTION! Men in Kilts

may appear hotter in person...

The Maverick is the place to have fun during Ladies’ Night! Men in kilts serving mimosas New fall inventory Awesome music Costumes, fun & dancing Enter to win one of two $100 gift certificates with any purchase on

Friday, Oct. 27 from 4-8 THE

MAVERICK M E N ’ S

T H R E A D S

G I F T S

Next to Good Coffee Roasting Company, downtown Polson. We look forward to serving you!

214 Main St. Suite B, Polson • 406-319-2199 •• themaverickclothing.com 28 - October 25, 2023

Valley Journal