12-22-21 issue by Valley Journal

$1.25

your homegrown newspaper

Vol. 18, No. 14

December 22, 2021

Glacier plans pg. 12

merry Main Street A Very

New business pg. 13

Photos and stoy by Rob Zolman / Valley Journal

Sports pg. 14

RONAN — With temperatures dipping well into the low teens Saturday evening in Ronan, clouds of breath fog hovered over festive holiday crowds as they lined the sidewalks along Main Street

to take in the annual Parade of Lights as it made its way through downtown. The event, hosted by the Ronan Chamber of Commerce, featured more than 25 parade entries decked out in colorful holiday swag. see page 2

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

Main Street from page 1

Onlookers battled the cold by bundling up and drinking warm beverages as children armed with plastic bags were excited about the possibility of picking up candy and treats thrown out by some of the parade participants and catching a glimpse of Santa Claus. Following tradition, the Ronan Police Department led the long line of

2 - December 22, 2021

brightly decorated utility vehicles, fire trucks, floats and an ATV pulling Santa in his sleigh along the three-mile parade route that snaked its way through town. Once the parade wrapped up, the focus shifted to the Lake County Fair Grounds for the final

evening of the annual Lights Under the Big Sky festival. The Lights Under the Big Sky is a family friendly festival that features a half-mile spread of brightly illuminated holiday-themed displays. The festival also features kid-friendly activities, a wide variety of

musical entertainment and a holiday arts and crafts bazaar. Helping to spread holiday cheer, Bill Williams of French Grainey and Williams law firm in Ronan pre-purchased 200 admission tickets so festival attendees could enjoy the one-of-a-kind event free of charge. “Thank you Bill for helping make this a wonderful place to live!” said event organizer Sjaan Vincent.

Valley Journal

MSU MontGuide helps Montanans file homestead declarations News from MSU News Service

BOZEMAN — Montana State University Extension has an updated MontGuide about filing a homestead declaration and the benefits it gives homeowners. Montana defines a homestead as a house a person lives in and the land on which it sits. A mobile home or manufactured home where the owners do not own the land is also considered a homestead. The property must be a person’s primary residence to be eligible for a homestead declaration, explained Marsha Goetting, MSU Extension family economics specialist. By signing and filing a homestead declaration, Montanans can protect their property up to $350,000 in value against a creditor’s claims, she added. Goetting gave the hypothetical example of a wife who discovers her husband has accumulated $15,000 in gambling debt. They have equity in the home of $50,000. A homestead declaration would protect the $50,000 equity in the house from creditors. “Even though a spouse may not be listed on the deed or other documents of title — or may not have directly contributed money to pay for the property — the spouse has a legal interest in the property because of the marriage,” Goetting added. “Therefore, both spouses should sign the homestead declaration. The interest of a spouse who does not sign is not exempt.” Montana has no standard homestead declaration form, although many county clerks and recorders have example forms. “The Senior and Long-Term Care Division provides a homestead declaration form at our website,” said Katy Lovell, Montana legal developer with Aging Services. “After the homestead declaration form is completed, signed and notarized, it should be filed with the clerk and recorder in the county in which the home or mobile home is located.” More information can be found in the MontGuide “Using a Homestead Declaration to Protect Your Home from Creditors.”

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This Week’s Weather Forecast Wednesday

Thursday

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Monday

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December 22

December 23

December 24

December 25

December 26

December 27

December 28

37°/30°

33°/24°

30°/22°

28°/15°

21°/8°

17°/9°

Snow 96% chance precipitation

Snow 91% chance precipitation

Snow 92% chance precipitation

Snow 91% chance precipitation

Snow 83% chance precipitation

16/9°

Cloudy 77% chance precipitation

Snow 82% chance precipitation

Flathead Lake Level 2891.08 ft WED 12/22

(2.68 ft below full pool)

8:22 am

4:48 pm

8:05 pm

11:13 am

12/23

8:22 am

4:48 pm

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FRI 12/24

8:23 am

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December 22, 2020 High 45° F

THUR

SAT 12/25

8:23 am

4:50 pm 11:36 pm

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8:23 am

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none

12:42 pm

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Valley Journal

Today in History

Low 22° F Precipitation 0.11 inches Record High 54° F Record Low -28 December 22, 2021 - 3

contents Business........................6

Calendar......................18

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

Schools........................20

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

Births...........................25

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

Classifieds...................27

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Evening clouds

And find us online for

more photos, videos, breaking news and special sections!

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Summer Goddard

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Jerry Beeks

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Valley Journal The Valley Journal newspaper (PE 23-190) is published weekly by Valley Journal LLC. Periodicals postage paid at Ronan, MT. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Distribution is by mail subscription ($59 per year in Lake County, MT; $74 per year elsewhere in U.S.) and by newsstand sales. Postmaster: send address changes to Valley Journal, P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT. 59864. Your homegrown newspaper serves residents of Lake 4 - December 22, 2021

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

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

Flathead Reservation Water Management Board appoints new members By Kristi Niemeyer for the Valley Journal

FLATHEAD RESERVATION — The Flathead Reservation Water Management Board is gradually taking shape, with two members recently appointed by the CSKT Tribal Council, and county commissions in Lake, Sanders, Missoula, and Flathead counties having submitted their nominees to Gov. Greg Gianforte by Dec. 16. The board, which must be seated by March 17 according to language in the CSKT Water Compact settlement, will have two members appointed by the Tribes, two appointed by the governor, a fifth selected by those four members, and a sixth non-voting member chosen by the Secretary of the Interior. The Tribal Council’s two picks for the board are Clayton Matt and Teresa Wall-McDonald, both tribal members with extensive experience in tribal government. Matt graduated from the University of Montana and went on to earn a master’s degree in water resource administration from the University of Arizona. He headed CSKT’s Natural Resource Department and was spokesman for the Tribal Water Rights Negotiation Team. Matt has been a member of the tribal executive staff

since 2010 and is currently director of Tribal Services. Wall-McDonald earned a bachelor’s degree from Great Falls College-MSU and a master’s in education administration from Gonzaga University. She began working with tribal government in 1980 and was appointed to the Tribal Council in 1984 to fill an 18-month vacancy. She was part of the team that prepared the Tribes’ legal case to assume ownership of Kerr Dam. Wall-McDonald has served as CSKT personnel director and head of Human Resource Development, Tribal Lands, and the Tribal Health Department. She is currently director of Human Resources for Salish Kootenai College. Last Monday, the Lake County Commissioners forwarded five nominees to Gov. Gianforte, selected from seven candidates. Their picks are: • Dennis DeVries, a Polson resident with an extensive background in agriculture. He served with the Lake County Conservation District for 20 years, and as its chairman was involved in early discussions with the Tribal Council and Montana Water Compact Commission about water issues on the reservation. A native of Conrad, he holds a degree in agricultural

economics with additional education in bank management and spent more than 20 years as an agricultural lender. He recently retired from a six-year stint as Polson’s city judge. • Roger Noble, who holds a master’s in geology and has more than 40 years of experience in water supply, water rights permitting and groundwater contaminant investigations. Although Noble resides in Kalispell, he also owns a seasonal residence on Skidoo Bay near Polson. He has served on several Flathead County boards, including the Board of Health, Board of Adjustments and Solid Waste Board, and is the senior hydrologist for Water and Environment Technologies. • Kenneth Pitt of Polson, a former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney who was charged with litigating federal water rights in the Montana Water Court from 19831993. During his lengthy career, Pitt also represented the Forest Service in the Snake River Adjudication, a case ultimately settled by the U.S. Supreme Court. Since returning to Montana in 2011, he has taught environmental law and water law at Salish Kootenai College in Pablo, and taught a summer course at the University of Montana law school titled Water Rights in

Indian Country. • Larry Robertson, also of Polson, who earned a bachelor’s from the University of Minnesota in Soil and Water Resource Management. He spent 36 years working for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, with stints in Hardin, Conrad, Townsend, Helena, Shelby, Polson, and Ronan. He is a founding member of the Montana Grape and Winery Association and the Winery Association of Montana and manages his own vineyard and winery in Polson. • Ray Swenson of St. Ignatius, who has spent more than 40 years as a rancher and irrigator. He is an elected member of the Mission Irrigation District and has served as the board’s chairman for two terms. Since water-board nominees may not be elected officials, Swenson would have to step down from his post on the irrigation district if chosen by the governor. After selecting nominees last Monday, Commissioner Gale Decker said he felt good about the five choices Lake County is submitting to the governor. “They all fit the description of what kind of qualities people are supposed to bring to the table,” he said. Sanders County Commissioners also submitted two nominees last

Valley Journal

week: Dave Bick of Ace Drilling, a well drilling and service company headquartered in Polson, and longtime Hot Springs rancher Terry Prongua. Flathead and Missoula counties were also asked to submit nominees who must either live on the reservation or own or maintain a seasonal residence here, and have relevant education and experience. According to an email from Lt. Gov. Kristen Juris, sent to the county commissioners Dec. 1, board members “will generally meet once a week” with occasional extra meetings scheduled as necessary. The state and Tribes have agreed to compensate board members at a flat rate of $175 per meeting, and will reimburse members for travel and meal ex-

penses. Meetings will be held on the reservation, at locations determined by the board. Once the governor appoints two members, the board will convene to select a fifth, and then hire a water engineer to carry out functions assigned by the board in accordance with the new Unitary Administration and Management Ordinance. The board will also include a sixth non-voting member, representing the Department of the Interior. In addition to funding the start-up and operation costs for the board and the engineer, the state and CSKT will cover day-to-day costs associated with establishing and operating an office, and contribute reports and provide technical assistance as needed.

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business

Head Over Heels reopens after pandemic shutdown By Taylor Davison Valley Journal

POLSON — A local gymnastics gym, Head Over Heels, has reopened after being shut down due to the pandemic. What began as a few private classes at the Mission Valley Christian Academy in the summer of 2010 by owners Jessica and Jason Edwards and their four children, grew to a full-fledged business three years later. Head Over Heels got its name and a location of its own in 2013 after community interest spurred it on. As with many businesses, however, the family-owned gym faced hard times during 2020. “The rent was just really expensive, and our business was shut down by mandate for four months,” Jessica recalled. “We actually had a lot of community members donate money to help us make the lease the first month that we were shut down, but there wasn’t really an end in sight… So, we put all of our equipment in storage and cleaned up the building and everything and got out.” The family had been in the building several years by that point but had only just started to feel like they had everything set up the way they 6 - December 22, 2021

Children play in the gymnastics area in the new Head Over Heels building.

liked it. Members of the community pitched in to help the family in the emotional task of storing their equipment away. Still, they looked for a silver lining. “We’d been working really hard for several years, so it felt like a sabbatical for our family in some ways. Like everyone else we were stuck at home. It was really nice to just be and spend time together and outside. In a way there was a blessing in it too,” Jessica said. During the months the gym was shut down, the family was still working behind the scenes.

Though they no longer had an athletic space, they were able to find rental locations for both their Montessori preschool and their dance studio. “We kept the preschool running as safe as possible [during the pandemic],” the Head Over Heels Montessori administrator and lead teacher Roxy McDermott said. “Only one parent could bring the kiddos in at a time, and we did everything that we could, and we went through a very blessed year because we didn’t have any of it hit our school.”

JESSICA EDWARDS / HEAD OVER HEELS PHOTO

Despite growing their preschool during their time shut down, the Edwards were eager to restart their gymnastics programs. “It was amazing how we all really, really missed it. I wasn’t sure if the kids would miss it, but they really did… We really wanted to reopen, and we’ve been working on that ever since we shut down basically,” Jessica said. “There was a potential opportunity to buy property, building costs weren’t as bad early on as they were earlier this summer,” Jason said. “We

Valley Journal

were going to eventually because the lease was so high. After our five years were up, we were going to be looking to buy and build anyway, so that was an opportunity, thinking about that. Then dialoging with Mission West, the Lake County community development, they had given us encouragement early on because our business model was fairly robust… so then working with them and then Glacier Bank to get funding, that was a process too.” “There were a lot of no’s along the way,” Jessica stated.

With the uncertainty caused by the pandemic, many financial institutions were cautious about lending to small businesses. With the gym closed for the time being, the Edwards had to lean on the success of their offshoot businesses to make progress. “Part of what was beneficial was that we already had a preschool, and we were going to run that regardless, so getting that up we were growing even last year in the fall,” Jason said. “The bank needed to see that we were actually viable, because they weren’t about to loan money to a business that was shut down, so even though we hadn’t reopened the gymnastics, which had always been our primary business, having the preschool thriving was essential for them to be willing to say ‘Okay, we’ll give you another shot,’” Jessica explained. “Having the diverse businesses of the dance and the preschool ended up being really important, and we didn’t realize how important that was going to be.” Even with the success of their preschool and dance studio, getting the loan to buy the gym’s new location was an upsee page 7

NOTICE Notice to Public of Proposed Rate Increase for Public Comment

Jason Edwards works behind the Head Over Heels counter.

JESSICA EDWARDS / HEAD OVER HEELS PHOTO

Head Over Heels from page 6

hill battle. Despite the obstacles they faced, the couple continued to fight for their business. “The no’s we got from the bank along the way were discouraging. [We’ve had] to kind of remember all the things that, in my perspective, God has done to make this possible when really a business like this shouldn’t have been able to get off the ground in Polson,” Jessica stated, remembering the effort. “To be able to succeed… we’ll either be able to do it or we won’t be able to do it but we might as well give it everything we have and keep pushing for the bank’s approval, keep fighting… we were making it fine, we’re going to make it again.” “Initially you’re always problem solving something that doesn’t seem easy to fix, and so that

JESSICA EDWARDS / HEAD OVER HEELS PHOTO

The new Head Over Heels building is located at 36004 Memory Lane in Polson.

perseverance I think for different things is important. Not that I think we have perseverance, but it becomes like that slog where it’s like ‘alright, next thing,’ and you’ve got to go ahead and keep doing it,” Jason said. Now finally reopened in a new brand-new location on Memory Lane in Polson, Jason credits much of their success to his wife. “She’s a maximizer in a lot of ways,” Jason said. “As we’ve moved into this facility Jessica is just

continuing to utilize a lot of what we’re doing. Like how do we care for people in the community in a lot of ways and their needs? Her just continuing to see opportunities for doing what we’re doing, but then being there for multiple people, staff and families that are part of our preschool, gymnastic families, moms that have been at home so we have open gyms for them… She just maximizes that stuff, so there’s a lot of behind the scenes in that sense.”

Although the future remains uncertain in these turbulent times, the family has focused on remaining optimistic and taking care of their staff and community. “Nobody knew what was going to happen with the pandemic, and we still don’t know obviously… but we’re hoping that we’re going to be able to stay open and we really are just super excited to get to have people in here again. It’s been super well received, all our classes are full,” Jessica said. “They have worked so hard and brought everything full circle, and even better. It’s pretty amazing. They had lots of balls to juggle and lots of things to put into place to do it, and boy, work around the clock. Talk about a hardworking family,” McDermott stated. “I feel very blessed to be a part of their team.”

Valley Journal

Mission Valley Power (MVP) has maintained low and stable rates for many years. Our residential rate is the lowest in the state. Each year MVP managers and the Utility Board prepare the operating budget. Measures are taken to ensure cost allocations remain fair to all customers and operational money savings techniques are utilized. The cost of doing business has made it necessary to incorporate a rate increase. The proposed rate change will move our customers to a tiered rate schedule. Each tier will be charged a different KWH charge. Some customers will receive an increase and others may see a decrease, depending on the monthly KWH usage. Public input is welcome on the proposed increase. Mission Valley Power believes many of its customers have confidence that we are fair and diligent in our work practices. MVP will continue to provide reliable electrical power service to its customers with sound business principles. Public meetings will be held at the Pablo Office conference room: Monday, January 10, from 6pm to 8pm Tuesday, January 11, from 6pm to 8pm Wednesday, January 12, from 1pm to 3pm Complete copies of the proposed rate structure are available upon request, or you can pick up a copy at the MVP office. Oral comments may be made at the above location and should be limited to three (3) minutes. Written comments may be sent to Consumer Council Chair, Mark Warner, PO Box 97, Pablo, MT 59855. Comments must be received no later than January 21, 2022. December 22, 2021 - 7

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

Omingo sentenced to eight years POLSON — A St. Ignatius man was committed at District Court in Polson Dec. 15 to a total of eight years with the Montana Department of Corrections with no time suspended. The sentence was in accordance with a re-negotiated plea agreement reached Larrs in District Court at Omingo Polson Dec. 1. Larrs Jalen Omingo, 21, entered a no-contest plea to strangulation of a partner or family member and was committed to the DOC for 5 years with none of that time suspended. In a separate matter, Judge James

Manley committed Omingo to the DOC for three years consecutive to the five years for his involvement in an assault on another inmate at the Lake County jail. The three years will run concurrent to another three years on a parole violation. According to court records, on March 4, Flathead Tribal Police responded to the St. Ignatius area on a report that a female had been assaulted and her vehicle stolen. At the scene, the alleged victim told the responding officer that her boyfriend, Omingo, strangled her and threatened to “do something to her grandmother” if she didn’t give him control of her car. He allegedly wrapped his legs around her stomach and squeezed her throat hard

enough that she could not breathe while issuing the threat. Court records also show that Omingo was already on probation for pointing a gun at people. Omingo was also charged with aggravated assault for his involvement in an altercation in the Lake County jail May 26, that resulted in another inmate suffering facial fractures at the hands of Omingo and two other inmates. A charge of aggravated assault was reduced to criminal endangerment as part of the agreement. Judge Manley gave Omingo credit for having already served 276 days in the Lake County jail. Omingo was also ordered to pay restitution of $4,591.64.

Washburn accepts plea agreement POLSON — Judge James Manley set a sentencing date of March 30 for a Ronan man convicted on felony charges of assault on a peace officer and Billy criminal Washburn mischief. Billy Washburn, 42, entered a no contest plea to the charges at District Court in Polson Dec. 15 by way of mental disease or defect. The plea was entered as part of an agreement that will dismiss one count

8 - December 22, 2021

of criminal endangerment at sentencing. According to court records, on March 2, Trooper Julian Gallegos observed a vehicle traveling at 72 miles per hour in a 55 MPH zone. Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Gallegos initiated a traffic stop and identified Washburn as the driver. Washburn refused to comply with Trooper Gallegos and made mention of wanting the trooper to shoot him. Washburn refused to exit the vehicle and drove off and a pursuit was on. Trooper Gallegos observed Washburn pull over to let a passenger out and then kept going.

The pursuit continued onto Beaverhead Road and the trooper performed a “pursuit intervention technique” which forced Washburn’s vehicle off the road. Washburn allegedly used his vehicle to ram Trooper Gallegos’s patrol car causing substantial damage in excess of $1,500. The Trooper fired his service weapon toward Washburn “grazing” him with one shot. Lake County Sheriff ’s Deputy Steve Raymond arrived on scene to back up Trooper Gallegos. An area homeowner happened to be moving logs with a tractor and assisted law enforcement in trying to

block Washburn’s vehicle from moving. Washburn allegedly used his vehicle to ram the tractor causing damage to both the tractor and Washburn’s vehicle. The plea agreement calls for the state recommending Washburn be committed to the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services for a total 20 years with 10 years suspended. Washburn will be allowed to argue for a more lenient sentence. He must undergo a review at the State Hospital at Warm Springs to determine treatment options prior to the March 30 sentencing date.

Valley Journal

Christy-Lacounte sentenced to six years POLSON — A St. Ignatius man was committed at District Court in Polson Dec. 15 to the Montana Department of Corrections for a total of six years with none of that time suspended for a string of high-speed pursuits with law enforcement. Shonko Christy-Lacounte, 24, pleaded guilty in District Court in Polson Aug. 11, to felony charges of criminal endangerment and theft. The criminal endangerment charge stems from a pursuit with law enforcement in the Charlo area Jan. 30, 2020. Montana Highway Patrol Shonko Trooper Terry Rosenbaum had Christy-Lacounte attempted to make a traffic stop on a small white car with no bumper, severe front-end damage and no front license plate. The pursuit lasted 29 minutes and forced eight other motorists to take evasive action before it crashed. The theft charge was for stealing a 2001 Nissan Xterra from a relative in Charlo March 3 and spray painting it another color As part of the plea agreement, the state agreed to dismiss without prejudice, two counts of theft involving vehicles, criminal possession of dangerous drugs, and criminal mischief, all felonies. The state could refile the charges if necessary. District Judge James Manley gave Christy-Lacounte credit for 268 days jail time already served.

Hilton pleads guilty as part of plea agreement POLSON — A Great Falls woman admitted to breaking into the Montana State University Flathead Reservation Extension office during a change of plea hearing at District Court in Polson Dec. 15. Crystal Gayle Hilton, 41, was initially charged with two counts of felony burglary. She entered a plea of guilty to one count of see page 9

Hilton pleads guilty from page 8

burglary as part of a plea agreement that will dismiss at sentencing the second count. According to charging documents, on Aug. 9 Polson Police officer Alan Booth responded to a report of a possible break-in at the building located at 701 1st St E. Upon arriving officer Booth observed a female sitting outside the building. After speaking with the person who reported the break-in, officer Booth learned that a coat had been taken and that another break-in at the Indian Senior citizens center had occurred. As Booth was leaving, he noticed the female sitting outside, later identified as Hilton, was wearing the coat that was stolen. She was taken into custody and booked into jail on two counts of burglary. The plea agreement recommends the imposition of sentencing being deferred for three years. Judge James Manley set sentencing for February 9.

McIntyre pleads guilty to felony DUI By Jeff Smith of Anderson Broadcasting for the Valley Journal

POLSON – A St. Ignatius man pleaded guilty in District Court at Polson Dec. 15 to what Lake County Attorney Steve Eschenbacher says is his eighth DUI. Raymond Burton McIntyre, 48, was charged with felony DUI stemming from a pursuit with law enforcement last summer. According to court records, on Aug. 7, as law enforcement officers were patrolling U. S. Highway 93, they observed a motorcycle pass them driving in the opposite direction with no taillights. The officers began to pursue the motorcycle to conduct a traffic stop, but the driver refused to stop. The motorcycle turned onto Hawkins Road and traveled west bound before sliding into a ditch. The

ISON RANG B T K E CS

GIFT P O H S

rider, later identified as McIntyre, denied having consumed alcohol. He refused a preliminary breath test. Officers obtained a search warrant for a blood draw at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson. The blood draw showed McIntyre’s blood alcohol content at .218. Eschenbacher says although this is McIntyre’s eighth lifetime DUI, it is his first felony, as the other DUI convictions occurred in another jurisdiction. A plea agreement recommends McIntyre be committed to 13 months with the Montana Department of Corrections with a recommendation for the state’s alcohol treatment program to be followed by two years of supervised release. Judge James Manley set sentencing for February 2.

Just in time for your Holiday shopping Come support local artists & business owners!

If you are a local vendor interested in selling your product at the Bison Range Gift Store, please contact Stephanie Gillin @ Stephanie.gillin@cskt.org or (406) 883-2888, ext. 7241.

News from the Bureau of Indian Affairs

WASHINGTON —The Bureau of Indian Affairs announced the launch of its new website dedicated to solving missing and murdered cases in Indian Country. The tool draws attention to unresolved cases involving indigenous persons that the BIA, Office of Justice Services, Missing and Murdered Unit is working on and invites the public to help law enforcement solve those cases. The announcement comes as Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs Bryan Newland participates in a panel on the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Crisis at the Western Governors Association Winter Meeting. “The Missing and Murdered Indigenous peoples crisis has plagued Indian Country for too long, with cases often going unsolved and unaddressed,” said Bryan see page 12

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Valley Journal

December 22, 2021 - 9

valley views Prohibition revisited T

he idea that America is a Christian Nation is a modern myth. The founding documents do not mention Christ or scripture. While the word “God” appears in the opening of the Declaration of Independence, it refers to “Nature’s God,” the god of Deism. The phrase “IN GOD WE TRUST” was not seen on our currency until 1864. And the words “under God” were wedged into the pledge of allegiance in 1954, nearly 200 years after the Declaration of Independence, our Constitution and the Federalist Papers were written. These insertions, these afterthoughts, would not have been endorsed by the Founders. Our nation is grounded in belief, but that belief is in human nature, in humankind’s ability to reason. The Founders embraced the ideas of Locke, Voltaire, and

Hume—the secular humanism of the Enlightenment—far more than the earlier beliefs in the Christianity they knew from Europe, linked to the militarized power of the nation-state. Some were deists and some were memBob Topper bers of various Christian denominations; they expressly decoupled church and state and guaranteed freedom of religion, including freedom to hold none at all. They created a democracy that did not use religion as a foundation for governance. The principles of equality, freedom, and democracy were developed by the political philosophers of the Enlightenment, not by the strains of nearly dictatorial Catholicism of that period and earlier, nor by the repressive Puritanical tyranny anathema to America’s Founders. When Jefferson wrote “We hold these truths to

Peace Voice

letters

Gift between elders stolen from porch

Editor, As small as Ronan is I never thought a neighbor would steal. I’m 80 years old, on very low social security. My dear childhood friend

10 - December 22, 2021

be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” he was echoing the rising sentiments of defining personal freedom of citizens, not more religion imbuing royals with power over subjects. Nonetheless, evangelicals promote and hold dear this modern myth of a Christian nation and are convinced that Christian belief transcends our Constitution. The most striking example is abortion. While acceptable under US law and a constitutional right for nearly 50 years (Roe v Wade, 1973), evangelicals believe it to be a violation of divine law and campaign for its prohibition. They presume that their personal religious beliefs should be imposed on all Americans. What others think is not a consideration, even when the others are the majority.

lives in Ronan, on 4th Avenue SW. She too is alone and elderly. On the 6th of this month, post office left a package on her porch never to be seen again. It was a canvas painting of horses about three feet long. Also some used DVD’s. I

Galileo and Darwin, among others, proved long ago that Christian belief has often been wrong. Yet the wrongheaded evangelical crusade to overturn Roe v. Wade has made remarkable progress and may succeed. Supported by dark money and a string of unethical Senate maneuvers they now have a conservative Supreme Court, and cases tailored to that purpose. Six of the nine justices are Catholic. And Catholics, often indoctrinated from early childhood, hold that abortion is a violation of God’s law. Barret and other justices plead impartiality but clearly their presence on the court has stacked the deck...something that neither the founders nor Jesus would approve. While I, and everyone I know, believe that to some degree abortion is wrong, belief is not reason enough to deny women the right. That most personal decision belongs only to the wom-

don’t remember all but some were of Bigfoot in Fieldbrook Northern California where she and I went to school. Another was Wild Hogs, another of Emily Smith. Please print this in your paper. Maybe after Christmas someone will see Valley Journal

en who must make it. Courts are obliged to render decisions based on reason and evidence alone, not subjective, personal beliefs. And so, the Supreme Court must put religious belief aside when ruling on the validity of the Mississippi and Texas laws now before them, laws that have obviously been designed specifically to advance a religious view and circumvent women’s rights. In the end this fundamentalist cause is hopeless. An illegitimate Supreme Court may well overrule Roe, but the effect will be temporary. Like prohibition, this decision, if taken, will be overturned by a future court, one that respects precedence and our constitutional rights, or by an act of congress. It will only be a matter of time. Efforts to prohibit abortion, like the prohibition of alcohol consumption, are simply not aligned with public opinion. After the disastrous experience

these and report where. Elderly people have little money so whoever stole this package should be very ashamed of themselves. Carol O’Neill Lake Havasu City, AZ

with alcohol prohibition, which evangelical conservatives also promoted one hundred years ago, they should realize that imposing an arbitrary and moralistic view that infringes the rights of the majority is not something our society should or will tolerate.

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.

Democrats’ tax, will exacerbate inflation crisis M

ontana families across continue to rise, Montanans’ paythe state are feeling the checks continue to shrink. Sadly, pain in their pocketbooks from President Biden and Congressioinflation and higher prices on nal Democrats are only adding everything from gas to groceries fuel to this inflation dumpster to heating their homes. What’s fire. causing this? President Biden While Montanans are budgetand Congressional Democrats’ ing their weekly shopping lists, wasteful spending President Biden and problems, and their the Democrats are multitrillion dolworking around the Senator Steve Daines lar reckless tax and clock to pass their spending spree bill reckless, multiwill only make matters worse. trillion dollar liberal wish list Last week, inflation hit a near- through Congress. ly 40 year high, backing estimates The President has repeatedly that families will spend an extra claimed his tax and spending $4,600 more this year alone. In proposal is fully paid for— fact, according to a recent report that’s simply false. by the Wall Street Journal, MonLast week, the nonpartitana faces one of the highest insan Congressional Budget Office flation rates in the country. stated the true cost of this bill is This year, Montanans will pay nearly five trillion dollars, and around 20.9 percent more for will add three trillion dollars to beef, 8 percent more for eggs and the national debt. And while 31.4 percent more for used cars Biden may think he’s successthan last year. It costs roughly fully misleading Montanans, I $30 more for Montanans to fill know they see right through him. up their pickups, and most will Biden’s “Build Back Better” plan pay nearly 50 percent more to should actually be called “Build heat their homes this winter. Back Broke.” This holiday season will put an Biden is also trying to even larger dent in Montanans’ claim his tax and spending wallets than ever before. It will bill will reduce inflation—it cost Montana families up to 10.7 won’t. Even the Washington percent more to put a Christmas Post fact-checked Biden’s claim ham on the table. that several economists said it As prices on everyday items would. In fact, they found that

Legislative Notes

some of the economists didn’t even know what’s in the bill and couldn’t confirm if it would reduce inflation. This is unacceptable. Washington Democrats and liberal elites need to stop lying to the people of Montana about what’s in this reckless proposal and what it means for their livelihoods. Folks living paycheck to paycheck can’t afford to fund the Democrats’ far-Left wish list, especially when they’re already facing massive price increases on everyday necessities. Congress should be doing all it can to support hardworking Montana families. That does not include raising their taxes or launching a cash cannon of borrowed money, exacerbating the inflation crisis. All 50 Senate Republicans are united in voting against President Biden’s wasteful spending bill. It would only take one Senate Democrat to help put a stop to it. I can think of one, and he’s the senior senator from Montana. As your voice in the United States Senate, I’ll continue working against Biden and the Democrats’ reckless tax and spending spree and work to support Montana small businesses, workers and families.

letters

Life is made of stepping stones

Editor, How am I to view the many ‘stones’ in my pathway? Here is one answer that has become special with me. See what you think. The following was written by my grandmother, whom we kids called Grandma Tish. She was a Divine Science minister and teacher in Chicago in the 30’s. “Every stone in my pathway is a steppingstone. Since I know and trust God’s guiding presence, I cannot dash my foot against a stone. Many of the stones that have obstructed my pathway in the past have been rolled away since I have been putting my faith in God. The appearance of a stone in my pathway does not halt my progress. With the light of God’s love thrown upon this seeming obstacle, it becomes a steppingstone and serves me instead of hindering me.” This teaching piece ends with this affirmation: “To-

day I am grateful for the chance to use truth in any challenge I have.” After her husband passed on in 1940, Grandma Tish came to live with us on our dairy farm in southern Wisconsin. She never stopped trying to teach. We kids can attest to that. With her influence, and especially our mother’s living these teachings, much of it rubbed off on me and has influenced my life. Life’s ‘stones’ are endless as are our opportunities and choices to use them as ‘steppingstones’. Bob McClellan Missoula

Christmas memories shared Editor, A word of sympathy to all of our friends in Lake County who had a sad loss of a loved one this past year. I do hope the holidays can bring a smile as you remember the wonderful, fun times with your loved one. “It’s been a tough year.” From a friend, Ethel McCready Missoula

Thank you for your business throughout the year.

We wouldn’t be here without you! Starting in 2022 hours of operation will be changing.

406-676-3937 417 Main St. SW, Ronan ronaneyeclinic.com

Monday-Wednesday - 8:00 AM - 5:00PM (Closed for lunch from 1-2)

Thursday - 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Friday - 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Wishing you a happy, healthy New Year! Valley Journal

December 22, 2021 - 11

new tool for MMIP from page 9

Newland, Assistant Secretary – Indian Affairs. “This new website represents a new tool in the effort to keep communities safe and provide closure for families.” Under Secretary Deb Haaland’s leadership, Interior is committed to working with Tribal governments, law enforcement agencies, survivors, families of the missing, and all communities impacted to coordinate interagency collaboration to address this crisis. Within the first 100 days of the Biden-Harris administration, Secretary Haaland created the MMU to pursue justice for missing or murdered Indigenous people. The new site provides detailed case information that can be easily shared, and three pathways to submit important tips and other case information that may help investigators with the detection or investigation of an offense committed in Indian Country. The site also contains information regarding how to submit tips or case information that may help investigators. For some tips, BIA offers rewards for information assisting in the detection or investigation of an offense committed in Indian country or in the arrest of an offender against the United States. The standard reward may be up to $5,000, depending on the specific details provided. BIA may increase the amount conditional on the circumstances. Additionally, an important feature of the site is its connectivity to the National Missing and Unidentified Person’s System and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Indian Country Case website. For more information, please visit the BIA’s new missing and murdered cases website.

vj 12 - December 22, 2021

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK SERVICE PHOTO

A bighorn sheep ram walks uphill in Glacier National Park.

Glacier National Park announces plans for 2022 ticket system News from Gina Kerzman / U.S. National Park Service

WEST GLACIER – Visitors to Glacier National Park in 2022 can expect to use a ticket system to access portions of the park from May 27 through Sept. 11. This will be the second year of the pilot ticket system in the park, designed to manage high traffic volumes within the park and avoid gridlock. To alleviate congestion, one ticket per vehicle will again be required to enter the Going-to-the-Sun Road (GTSR) at the West Entrance, St. Mary Entrance, and the new Camas Entrance. In 2022, a ticket per vehicle will also be required at the Polebridge Ranger Station to visit the North Fork area of the park. The GTSR and North Fork tickets will be two separate tickets. The park anticipates a portion of tickets becoming available by early March. Like last year, visitors will need to set up an account on Recreation.gov to obtain tickets. Although the park

does not charge for the tickets, Recreation.gov charges a $2 nonrefundable service fee. Tickets will not be required at the St. Mary Entrance prior to the full opening of the GTSR, typically in late June. Once snow removal and road preparations are complete and the road opens to vehicle traffic to Logan Pass, tickets will be required at the St. Mary entrance through Sept. 11. The park will offer threeday tickets for GTSR rather than the seven-day ticket offered last year, and one-day tickets for the North Fork. The Apgar and Sprague Creek campgrounds will require reservations in addition to Fish Creek and St. Mary campgrounds. Rising Sun and Avalanche campgrounds will remain first come, first served. The park anticipates all campgrounds to be operating in 2022. The 2021 pilot of the ticket system successfully reduced traffic on GTSR during peak hours and circumvented the need to fully close access to GTSR due to congestion an Valley Journal

estimated 35 times. This was a major accomplishment despite 2021 visitation numbers currently boasting the second highest on record for the park. Avoiding gridlock also ensured access to emergency vehicles and prevented severe vehicle back-ups onto Highway 2 outside the park. In addition to the ticket, each vehicle entering the park is required to have an entrance pass for any entry point into the park. These passes could include any one of the following: a $35 vehicle pass good for seven days, a valid Interagency Annual/ Lifetime Pass, or a Glacier National Park Annual Pass. Visitors with lodging, camping, transportation, or commercial activity reservations within the GTSR corridor can use their reservation for entry in lieu of a $2 ticket. (The North Fork area does not offer lodging, transportation or commercial services, and camping is first come, first served.) Park shuttles will operate in 2022. Service levels are still to be determined.

The park anticipates continued congestion at Two Medicine and Many Glacier. As in past years, entry will be temporarily restricted when these areas reach capacity. Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit outside of peak hours (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.). Visitors with service reservations (e.g., boat tours, lodging, horseback ride, guided hikes) in these valleys will be permitted entry during temporary restrictions. Park staff are currently working on details for a utility project this summer that may require the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road to be closed at night, except for emergency vehicles. More details on this project will be forthcoming, but visitors should anticipate a late night through early morning closure from Apgar to Lake McDonald Lodge from June to Sept. Additional details about the ticketed system are still in development. The park website will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Entrepreneur opens new meat processing facility in St. Ignatius By Rob Zolman Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS – Nestled beneath the picturesque peaks of the Mission Mountains, just off US Highway 93 in St. Ignatius, Mission Valley entrepreneur Donald Pierce recently launched a full-service meat processing facility. Since its grand opening back in October, D& J Meats has been inundated with new customers seeking a local meat processing facility to help fill their freezers. “I am booked all the way into the end of

March,” said Donald Pierce, lifelong resident of St. Ignatius. About two years ago, after observing a growing demand for local meat processing for both hunters and valley meat producers, an idea for a new business venture grew. “We’ll be providing another option in the marketplace,” Pierce explained. “I think local production is the way it has to be. I hope we get back to the way it used to be when local agriculture producers filled the local needs.” Sure of his decision, Pierce persevered

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!

through cumbersome USDA filing and inspection processes, a failed business partnership and numerous building construction setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Pierce and his staff finally heard the whirl of meat saw blades back in October just in time for the hunting season rush. The state-of-the-art processing facility is designed to handle the slaughtering, processing and packaging of both wild game and domestic animals. It houses multiple large walk-in coolers, a cutting and packaging area and in

the spring a corral system is being installed to assist in the transport and processing of livestock. D&J Meats is located at 34408 Pierce Lane in St. Ignatius. Facility hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, contact the shop at 406-745-0643.

ROB ZOLMAN / VALLEY JOURNAL

A custom wild game order is processed at the new D & J Meats facility in St. Ignatius.

Located in Ronan next toTrue Value & Rootz Salon

Thank you to our amazing customers. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

Be Healthy!! MISSION MOUNTAIN NATURAL Foods and Gifts 319 Main Street • Downtown Polson • 883-2847

All Christmas fabrics & clothing 25% OFF! All toys 15% OFF! Stop on by to see all we have to offer!

406-676-2740 Valley Journal

December 22, 2021 - 13

sports

Elks host annual Hoop Shoot By Rob Zolman Valley Journal

POLSON — Mission Valley Elks Lodge #1695 held its annual Elks Hoop Shoot on Saturday at the Linderman Gymnasium. “We were very excited by such a strong turnout. We had a total of 45 boys and girls participate in the free throw competition this year,” said event coordinator David Rensvold. “Competitions were tight in all six categories and we saw some great shooting from the competitors.” The Hoop Shoot Competition, which is sponsored by the Elks National Foundation, is completely free for the contestants, and boys and girls are divided into groups according to age.

Each child is given time to warm up and shoot practice throws before competing to see who can sink the most free throws out of 25 shots. The top shooters from each age group then continue on to district competition, joining kids from all over Western Montana for an opportunity to compete at the state level. Competition results Boys: Coming in first were Karson Glinsman (8-9), Owen Shirtliff (10-11) and Fox Johnson (12-13). Finishing second were Trafford Cox (8-9), Talen Cochran (10-11) and Jaden Mitchell (1213). Third place went to Zaiden Beaver (8-9), Mikel Padilla (10-11) and Ryatt Maley (12-13).

sports shorts Wrestling Mission-Charlo Bulldogs

Canyon Sargent captured the 170-pound weight class title at the Glyn Brawley wrestling tournament in Corvallis on Saturday afternoon. In a time of 1:04, Sargent won by pin over Frenchtown’s Wyatt Leishman. Also for the Bulldogs, Charley Adams (152), 14 - December 22, 2021

Girls: First place finishers were Scarlett Anciaux (8-9), Emily Simonich (10-11) and Johanna Bieber (12-13). Placing second were Kezleigh Monroe (8-9), Serenity Brown (10-11) and Kayle Coles (12-13). Third place went to Peyton Crockett (8-9), Lucy Shear (8-9), Cheyenne Bieber (10-11) and Jamie Newton (1213). The District Tournament will be held at the Linderman Gymnasium on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2022, at noon. First placers at Districts will continue on to the State competition in February with the ultimate goal of continuing on to the National competition held in April at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

Chance Bockman (160) and Deago Hostetler (182) placed second in their respective weight classes. Bulldogs Kody Dillard (113), Shayden Friedlander (160) and George Ranney (182) each nabbed fourth place finishes.

Warrior RJ Knoll won the 160-pound weight class crown by pin over Libby’s Matthew Niemi with a time of 3:04. Warrior Brody Smith picked up a third-place finish in the 113-pound weight class.

Arlee Warriors

Tirza Two-Teeth placed third in the 205-pound weight class and Saellah Hugs finished fourth in the

Wrestling in Eureka during the Buzz Lucey wrestling tournament on Saturday, Arlee

Ronan Chiefs & Maidens

ROBERT ZOLMAN / VALLEY JOURNAL

Youngsters take aim at hoop fame during Saturday’s Mission Valley Elks Lodge #1695 annual Hoop Shoot held at Linderman Gymnasium in Polson.

103-pound weight class for the Ronan Maidens during the C.M. Russell Holiday Wrestling Classic in Great Falls on Friday and Saturday. For the Ronan Chiefs, Ridge Cote finished third in the 113-pound weight class and in the heavy weight division Max Morency placed seventh.

son Pirate grappler Ryley Knutson took home the 103-pound weight class title with a 5-2 decision over Eureka’s Blake Lancaster. Pirate Lincoln Burrough (205) nabbed a third-place finish followed by Breadon Iliff (103) and Micha Craig (132) who both booked fourth place finishes.

Polson Pirates

Basketball BOYS

At the Buzz Lucey in Eureka on Saturday, Pol-

Valley Journal

Two Eagle River Eagles

In a 14C conference game Friday night, the Hot Springs Savage Heat defeated the visiting Two Eagle River Eagles 7342.

Arlee Warriors

Benny Harlow scored an Arlee Warrior team high eight points in a 68-28 road loss to the Loyola Rams on Friday evening. see page 15

sports shorts from page 14

Charlo Vikings

In a 14C conference match up on Friday evening, the Charlo Vikings were defeated by the hosting St. Regis Tigers 71-56. On Saturday, the Vikings rebounded from the previous night’s road loss with a 73-28 rout over the visiting Philipsburg Prospectors. Stetson Reum and Wesley Anderson both posted double-doubles for Charlo. Reum scored a game high 19 points and 13 rebounds, while Anderson booked 16 points and 16 rebounds. Viking Keaton Piedalue chipped in with 15 points.

Mission Bulldogs

Hosting the Bigfork Vikings on Tuesday, Dec. 14, the Mission Bulldogs came away with a close 45-43 home win. Cederick McDonald posted a Bulldogs’ game high 16 points followed by Zoran LaFrombois with 11 points. On Thursday against the hosting Missoula Hell Knights JV squad, LaFrombois scored a game high 29 points helping the Bulldogs to a narrow 56-55 non-conference win. Kellen McClure added 12 points. LaFrombois and McDonald on Friday evening combined for 45

points on the road in a 69-27 win over the Troy Trojans. LaFrombois booked a game high 25 points followed by McDonald with 20 points.

Ronan Chiefs

On Thursday, the Ronan Chiefs battled back from a 12-3 first quarter deficit to defeat the visiting Whitefish Bulldogs 56-40. Marlo Tonasket led the Chiefs with 18 points followed by Elijah Tonasket with 16 points. Saturday’s conference road game against Browning was cancelled due to inclement weather.

Polson Pirates

On Thursday the Hamilton Broncs held off the surging visiting Polson Pirates for a 5652 victory. Colton Graham had a double-double with 18 points and 14 rebounds for the Pirates who also received 18 points from Xavier Fisher. In a Western A conference match up against the Libby Loggers on Saturday, the Pirates slipped past the hosting Loggers 59-51. Graham turned in another game high performance scoring 22 points on the evening, while Jarrett Wilson chipped in with 12 points.

GIRLS

Two Eagle River Lady Eagles

On Friday evening the Two Eagle River

Lady Eagles fell 5934 to the hosting Hot Springs Lady Savage Heat.

Polson Lady Pirates

On Thursday, the Hamilton Lady Broncs cruised past the visiting Polson Lady Pirates 5327. Turquoise Pierre scored seven points to pace the Lady Pirates. In Libby on Saturday, the Lady Pirates toppled the Libby Lady Loggers 68-27 for their first victory since the 2018 season breaking a 69-game losing streak. McKenna Hanson paced the Lady Pirates with a game high 12 points.

Charlo Lady Vikings

Kassidi Cox shot a team high 15 points to help the Charlo Lady Vikings defeat the hosting St. Regis Lady Tigers 40-25 on Friday evening. Both Darcy Coleman and Mila Hawk chipped in with eight points apiece. Playing at home on Saturday, the Lady Vikings made it three wins in a row on the young season with a 56-39 victory over the Philipsburg Lady Prospectors. Hawk booked a game high 19 points followed by Cox with 12 points. Also for the Lady Vikings, Sidney Bauer scored 11 points and snagged a team high nine rebounds.

Arlee Scarlets

Breakers defeated the visiting Arlee Scarlets 81-20. Raven Payson scored a team high eight points followed by Xaria Jacobson with seven points.

Mission Lady Bulldogs

On Tuesday, Dec. 14, the Mission Lady Bulldogs had three players score in double digits in a 71-45 road loss to the Bigfork Valkyries. Kason Page scored 16 points, Kooper Page had 13 points and Madyson Currie added 12 points. In a non-conference road game on Thursday, Kooper Page scored a Lady Bulldog team high 17 points leading Mission past the Missoula Hellgate Lady Knights JV squad 42-33. The Lady Bulldogs won their second game in a row on Friday evening with a 61-22 rout of the hosting Troy Lady Trojans. Kooper Page led the Lady Bulldogs with a game high 22 points followed by Currie with 13 points and Izzy Evans with 10 points.

Ronan Maidens

Dani Coffman scored 17 points, Olivia Heiner booked 16 points and LaReina Cordova scored 10 points as the Ronan Maidens outpaced the hosting Whitefish Lady Bulldogs 52-33 on Thursday evening. Saturday’s conference road game against Browning was cancelled due to inclement weather.

On Friday, the Loyola Valley Journal

Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes

Natural Resources Department Division of Fish, Wildlife, Recreation & Conservation Notice for the 2022-2023 Proposed Non-Tribal Member Fishing, Bird Hunting and Recreation Regulations The Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes announce the availability of the March 1, 2022 to February 28, 2023 Flathead Indian Reservation Joint Tribal/State Fishing and Bird Hunting and Recreation Regulations and proposed changes. The Tribal Council welcomes comments from the public on these draft regulations. Due to the pandemic, an in person hearing will not take place. Public comment will be accepted via letter or email, comments are due no later than Dec. 23rd, 2021.

Proposed Changes for March 1, 2022 through February 28, 2023 Part I, 2022-23 Reservation Licensing, Section 1. Form of Licenses and Duplicates • Camping Stamp 18 and Older: For all categories of residences – increase camping stamp cost from $20 to $100. • Residents of the Reservation: Increase annual Conservation License from $20 to $40, increase Disabled License from $17 to $37. • Non-Residents of the Reservation: Increase annual Conservation License for both age categories from $23 to $100, increase 3-Day Conservation License from $19 to $80, increase 3-Day Combined Conservation/Fishing License to $105, increase the Disabled License from $17 to $100. • Non-Residents of the State of Montana: Increase annual Conservation License for both age categories from $26 to $100, increase 3-Day Conservation License from $19 to $80, increase 1-Day Combined Conservation /Fishing License to $80, increase 3-Day Conservation/Fishing License to $146, increase Disabled License from $17 to $100.

Part III, Bird Hunting, Section 1. Item N. • Add “Safe Harbor Marsh” to listing of prohibited Hunting areas.

Part IV, Recreation Regulations, Section 2. C. • New (6) Twin Lakes Recreation Area • New (7) Hog Heaven Range & Chief Cliff Area, described as: All tribally owned lands west of Highway 93 from the Reservation northern boundary to the intersection of Highway 28, and lands north of said intersection and following Highway 28 westerly to the intersection of the Brown’s Meadow Road, and lands east of the Brown’s Meadow Road (or all tribally owned lands served or accessed by the Hog Heaven forest tribal road system (H-1000 to H-4000 numbered tribal forest roads). • New (8) Portion of the North Salish Range known as Irvine Lookout Area, described as: All tribally owned forested and range lands served or accessed by the Irvine forest tribal road system (I-1000 to I-6000 numbered tribal forest roads).

Part IV, Recreation Regulations, Section 7. B. 3. • Add “Safe Harbor Marsh” to listing of prohibited boat or floatation devices water bodies. We ask that all comments be submitted via letter or email, no later than December 23rd. Public comments can be summited by letter to P.O. Box 278, Pablo, MT 59855 or via email to Amanda Bourdon, DFWRC Permit Agent at Amanda.bourdon@cskt.org or Stephanie Gillin, DFWRC Information & Education Program Manager at Stephanie.gillin@cskt.org. Written comments may also be sent to the Flathead Indian Reservation Fish and Wildlife Advisory Board Chairman, 406 6th Avenue East, Polson, Montana, 59860. December 22, 2021 - 15

Special guests join 10th Annual FLIC Film Festival News from FLIC

POLSON — The Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC) will celebrate its 10th anniversary the weekend of Jan. 28-30 at the Showboat Stadium 6 in Polson, Montana. FLIC screens full-length features, shorts, animation, student films, and documentaries. FLIC 2022 once again offers a broad selection of 41 domestic and international films, featuring entries from eighteen countries as well as homegrown Montana films. FLIC Director David W. King is excited about this year’s special guests. King offers, “In addition to about two-dozen attending filmmakers, FLIC 2022 welcomes special guest film producer Gerald Molen, who will be presenting his film, Jurassic Park, and then sitting for a Q&A following the screening.” Gerald Molen served as producer on many of Steven Spielberg’s iconic films, including Schindler’s List, Jurassic Park, The Lost World: Jurassic Park, Minority Report, and Hook. Molen’s other notable producing credits include Twister, Days of Thunder, and Rain Man. In 2019, Mr. Molen shared Schindler’s List with the FLIC audience. During the question/ answer session following the film, Molen recounted that while he and Spielberg were finishing their Jurassic Park shoot in Hawaii, Spielberg casually informed Molen that their next project would be Schindler’s List, which Spielberg wanted to shoot in Poland that winter. King says, “Molen’s account of the significant logistical challenges presented by mounting the production of Schindler’s List on the heels of Jurassic Park was fascinating to FLIC’s rapt audience.” Another return FLIC guest is standup comedian Adam Yenser, who, ac16 - December 22, 2021

FLIC PHOTO

Film Producer Gerald Molen discusses his work on Schindler’s List at his 2019 FLIC appearance. Molen will share Jurassic Park with FLIC at 11:30 a.m on Sunday, Jan. 30 and then sit for a Q&A session after the screening.

cording to King, “…regaled audiences with laughter in 2019 & 2020 with his standup comedy and hilarious clips from his hidden camera stints as “Adam the Cashier” for the Ellen DeGeneres Show.” Adam has appeared on Conan and FOX Laughs, has written for The Oscars, been a freelance contributor to SNL’s Weekend Update, and co-produced the web series “Laugh Lessons with Kevin Nealon.” Stand-up comedian Brian Kiley joins Adam Yenser at FLIC 2022 for a live event called “Comedians in Chairs Eating Popcorn.” Kiley has made over 20 combined appearances on The Late Show with David Letterman, The Tonight Show, and Late Night with Conan O’Brien. He’s been a staff writer for Conan for over 20 years and serves as the show’s head monologue writer. Kiley’s won 6 Writer’s Guild Awards and has been nominated for an Emmy more than 15 times, earning an Emmy win in

2007. FLIC Co-Producer Jessica King wears many hats in the festival. Among her favorites is her role as filmmaker liaison, where she coordinates travel and accommodations for filmmakers from out of the area. “It’s so much fun meeting and often befriending the filmmakers. FLIC 2022 will feature post-screening Q&A sessions with filmmakers representing about a dozen films in the festival.” Jessica continues, “FLIC gives these filmmakers the opportunity to share their work with FLIC’s engaged audience. We’ve heard many times from these artists that they appreciate how enthusiastic FLIC audiences have been over the years.” FLIC kicks off on Friday, January 28th with an informal gathering at the Cove Deli & Pizza at 11 3rd Avenue, Polson. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served, with optional menu items available. FLIC 2022 screenings commence at 6pm on multiple screens at the Showboat Stadium 6, 416 Main Street, Polson. On Saturday afternoon at 4:30 there is another informal gathering for FLIC filmmaker and audience participants at Blodgett Creamery Coffee Saloon, where complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served and optional menu selections will be available. The FLIC 2022 weekend draws to a festive close with an Awards Show and dessert reception on Sunday, Jan. 30th from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Free to the public. Location is the Showboat Stadium 6, 416 Main Street, Polson. The Showboat Cinema Stadium 6 will host FLIC 2022 encore screenings from Sunday evening, Jan. 30 through Thursday evening, Feb. 3 at 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. To view FLIC 2022 weekend and encore screening schedules and other information, visit the FLIC Polson website, where festival passes and individual screening tickets may also be purchased. FLIC is also on Facebook, with information updated regularly, or email at contact@flicpolson.com.

Valley Journal

Library offers 20% off sale, announces holiday hours News from the North Lake County Public Library District

LAKE COUNTY — Mondays mean Mother Goose. Join us at 9:15 a.m. Mother Goose is geared for ages 0 to 3, but all are welcome. We encourage parents and caregivers to participate with their children for this early learning time. The doors open at 9 a.m. Social distancing will be practiced. Face masks are recommended but not required. Looking for the perfect gift for the book lover in your life? We will be having a 20% off sale in our gift nook through Dec. 22. Check out the cabinet of goodies in our lobby. Tote bags, stationery, pins, hats, mugs and more are available. The library has a Starry Sky Project STEM kit available for checkout. The Montana Learning Center in Helena is launching the statewide Starry Sky Survey Project, which is part of a larger effort to track light pollution globally. Anyone 18 or older with a library card in good standing can check out the kit, take measurements, and upload findings to the international database “Globe at Night.” Holiday closures: The library will be closed Thursday, Dec. 23 – Saturday, Dec. 25 for the Christmas holiday. We will reopen on Monday, December 27th at 9:00 a.m. We will also be closed Friday, Dec. 31- Jan. 1 for the New Year. We will be open Monday, Jan. 3 at 9 a.m. as usual. December is the perfect time to honor or remember a loved one with a gift to the library. Giving before the end of the year is a great way to maximize charitable contributions for yourself and the library with the help of the CARES Act.

PUZZLES LOS ANGELES TIMES SUNDAY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

“The Long and Short of It” By Jeffrey Wechsler

ACROSS 1 7 13 19 20 22 23 24 25 26 29 30 31 32 34 43 47 48 49 50 53 56 57 58 60 62 68 69 70 72 80 81 82

Make a face, perhaps Tab on old cash registers Tarkington tween Disagreeable Brunch fare Like zebras and donkeys __ pin: metal fastener They know their stuff Plants with flavorful and irritating varieties Sweaters in King Arthur’s court? “Ciao!” Shiraz’s country PC shortcut key Earth goddess Offshore retreat for comedians? NL West team Thing thrown from a tree? Hotel selection Director Kazan Clog (up) Amsterdam’s Anne Frank House, e.g. Swindle “Best ever” acronym Harsh-smelling Spectrum maker Query to a U.K.-focused think tank? Pic, in Peru Buffalo QB Josh Utah ski resort Altered the revealing side of a dress? Work with pupils Mazda two-seater Adverb for Descartes

83 Police force acronym 86 Venue for the premiere of Handel’s “Water Music” 90 Genesis casualty 91 Come across 92 Capital of Yemen 94 Allows access 96 Diner counter array 98 Siblings who produce court orders? 101 Tusked beast 103 Like the lower half of the Polish flag 104 Allows access, poetically 106 Major appliances 111 Dieters’ interim report on smaller-sized clothes? 119 March 120 Out of the loop 121 Prison with a Greek eponym 122 Worshipper 123 Lead off 124 Kitchen gadget 125 Defy 126 Biological quintet 127 Members of the genus Vipera

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Saves, with “away” Pot boiler in “Macbeth” Remove, as a knot Female driver Ortiz of “Fast & Furious” films Augur Rookie Cosa __ Missouri River city Ordinal for Uranus

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 21 27 28 33 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 51 52 54 55 59 61 63 64 65

Bygone fruit spray Longtime TV host who gives automotive advice in “Popular Mechanics” Caesar’s penultimate words Mortar partner Congo line? More than cold Currency of 30-Across In the distant past __ Arc, Arkansas Common ID Quaint word of revulsion South Asian lentil dish Evaluate Sam-I-Am offering Rutgers URL ending Android alternative Won all the games Official note from the boss What beaux do Texter’s letters for two cents? “That’s unfortunate” Simon who played Scotty in 2009’s “Star Trek” Distant Unicellular alga Onomatopoeic rapping Notebook type Network for film buffs Gold in La Paz Sch. near Providence Term starter Chopped liver purveyor Something taken on a bus Transfer point Sammie with crunch Twenty quires

66 Bay of Bengal’s ocean 67 Sound system 71 Madonna companion, in much art 73 Put away 74 Dresden “Drat!” 75 Word on old tablets 76 Hook partner 77 The VW Amarok, e.g. 78 __ fresca: pico de gallo 79 Little ones 83 Bismarck-to-Tucson dir. 84 Journalist Hemingway’s assignment 85 Singer DiFranco 87 “No big deal” 88 Summer at the Sorbonne 89 Bygone geopolitical abbr. 93 Wears down 95 Meteorological lines 97 Put on display, with “out” 99 Go back 100 Dedicated verse 101 Engenders 102 Brutus Buckeye is its mascot: Abbr. 105 Intrinsically 107 Made an official choice 108 IRS option 109 More amiable 110 Marquee names 111 Enjoy the kiddie pool 112 Cupid analog 113 Sreenivasan of PBS News 114 Oft-corked container 115 Chicago pizzeria franchise, familiarly 116 Security source 117 Hotel bed request 118 Valley with vintners 119 Course goal for many

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis

CRYPTO-QUOTE

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

GADIJAD EPTTZ, J RAHTPZEXAH ECT UTXAJAO DN MXEJTAFT GADIJAO OPXZZ, J FXA XMMPTFJXET MTPZJZETAFT. - CXK YDPKXAH Ben Stone / Valley Journal

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Mark Baker, RMEF Chairman of the Board, presents Senator Steve Daines with the inaugural RMEF Excellence in Advocacy Award.

FRED BARRETT / MISSION VALLEY ELKS LODGE PHOTO

News from Fred Barrett Elks Lodge 1695

POLSON — On November 23rd, Thanksgiving Day, Mission Valley Elks Lodge 1695 began the monumental task of preparing for the Thanksgiving Day takeout and delivery of 1396 dinners to the Polson Montana community. Thanks to the coor-

dinating efforts of our committee chairperson Tracy Plaiss and assistant Jo Durand the efforts of over 62 members and nonmembers and all volunteers, floor coverings were put down, prepping, cooking, and the carving began early on Thanksgiving morning, all tasks being completed in time for all to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner with their families.

COURTESY PHOTO

Daines’ receives award for conservation efforts News from the office of Senator Daines

MONTANA — The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, a Montana-based sportsmen and conservation group, presented U.S. Senator Steve Daines with their first-ever Excellence in Advocacy Award for his bipartisan work on conservation and forest management. “Conservation is part of our way of life in Montana, and

an issue that brings both sides together. As a fifth generation Montanan and avid hunter, I know just how important it is that we conserve our great outdoors and increase access to public lands,” Daines said. “I’m thankful to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation for its partnership over the years and for presenting me with the Excellence in Advocacy Award. I look forward to continuing to work together on important

issues like wildlife and forest management.” Daines was instrumental in getting the historic “Great American Outdoors Act” signed into law, which increases access to public lands and promotes outdoor recreation, and he is working to get several bipartisan forest management bills signed into law that would help reduce catastrophic wildfires, restore wildlife habitat, and support timber jobs.

Happy Holidays The Board of Directors, Providers and Staff at St. Luke Community Healthcare would like to wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season. “The Heart of Healthcare in the Mission Valley”

www.stlukehealthcare.org

Valley Journal

December 22, 2021 - 17

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

By: Magi Helena for the Week of December 19, 2021 ARIES (March 21-April 19): Keep your thoughts to yourself by maintaining a poker face and watching your body language. Loved ones can tell not only what you may be feeling, but also whether you’re on the right track or not. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Remember that difficult situations eventually end. You should be able to relax later in the week and enjoy some well-earned fun. You and a romantic partner can experience greater intimacy in the week ahead. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Raise the bar and focus on creating good will in the week to come. Your wits are likely at their sharpest and your imagination is strong. This month could mark the culmination of ambitions as a dream comes true.

SUDOKU

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Be prepared for surprises or unexpected messages under today’s stars. A phone call might change your plans for the week ahead. Write down inspiring ideas that may be worth reviewing after the holidays are over.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): With a holiday on this week’s calendar for most, you may be pressed for time and forced to make your schedule more efficient. When your job or business matters are top priority, you may need to sidestep passing distractions.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): The opinion of the person staring back at you in the mirror can be worth understanding as the week begins. Improve your luck in the week to come by studying ways to increase your buying power or earning ability.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You may be aware of changes that affect your bottom line. You are blessed by peace of mind as the week unfolds and can probably see different points of view. Not much can upset the harmony and happiness you have found.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Every holiday outing in the upcoming week might seem like a magical journey that helps to revive your spirits. Give in to a whim, spin the wheel of chance, and enjoy something unexpected and new.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Plenty of holiday cheer can brighten your day and your week ahead. You are likely to be focused on finding the very best that money can buy to please your loved ones, family and circle of friends.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): In the week ahead, you might have an urge to focus on creative activities. Loved ones might do their utmost to treat you royally despite any eccentric schedule and changeable plans. Make permanent memories of family outings.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Gift giving gives you a chance to share something tasteful and worthwhile. Good advice from a close companion may remind you to keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities. Make the most of your spare time this week.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Turn rejection into acceptance in the upcoming week. Friends could admire your scrapbook of photos or family members will be amazed by a display of your special talents. Avoid people who drain too much of your energy.

COMICS

Valley Journal

Answers in Classifieds December 22, 2021 - 19

schools

“

Polson School District increases daily substitute teacher rate to $120 News from Polson School District #23

POLSON — The Polson School District responds to its substitute teacher shortage by increasing the daily sub rate from $96 to $120. The daily rate had been $96 since 2017. “We have struggled to fill teacher vacancies since the beginning of the year,” said Scott Boen, director of human resources and communication. “We raised the substitute teacher pay to be more competitive in the labor market and recruit qualified applicants,” said Boen. Teachers and support staff have been spread thin in the Polson schools. “Colleagues are covering for colleagues and principals are covering classes. We’ve been pulling paraprofessionals from their classrooms to cover classes, which means one less adult is available for duties and to assist with supervision. This, in turn, is impacting school policies, procedures, and discipline,” said Luke Mills assistant principal at the Polson Middle School.

We’ve struggled to fill teacher vacancies since the beginning of the year. We raised the substitute teacher pay to be more competitive in the labor market and recruit qualified applicants.”

The district has contended with the shortage in a variety of ways. “We have to piece something together, including pulling support staff from their classrooms or juggling teachers. On several occasions, four or more classes had to be placed in the auditorium,” said Andy Fors, Polson High School Principal. Though the district’s received a sparsity of applications, the applicant pool has been quite diverse. “We’ve had a variety of candidates, such as college students, second-job seekers, stay-at-home parents, retirees, and those who are unhappy with their current

- Scott Boen, director of human resources and communication for Polson schools

jobs,” said Boen. Two recent applicants were retirees who wanted to get out of the house. “I applied because my wife worked as a teacher, and I was at home watching too much daytime T.V.,” said Richard Vaillant, a retired stockbroker. Bill Griffin, another retiree, said being at home was driving him nuts. “I like being active and being around people,” Griffin said. The district hopes to expand its substitute teacher pool with the increased pay. Those interested in working as a substitute teacher for the Polson School District may apply on the district’s website.

COURTESY PHOTO

Retired stockbroker Rick Vaillant works as a substitute teacher for Polson schools.

$5.1M to address school supply chain disruption, food shortages in Montana Sen. Tester pushed USDA to address pandemic related food shortages: “No Montana student should ever go hungry”

20 - December 22, 2021

News from the office of Senator Tester

U.S. SENATE — Following an aggressive push, U.S. Senator Jon Tester announced on Dec. 17 he secured $5,159,810 in U.S. Department of Agriculture funding for the state of

Montana and local school districts to ease supply chain disruptions and foot shortages brought on by the pandemic by providing flexibility to allow locally sourced food to be acquired for students. “No Montana student should ever go hungry, period,” said Tester. “Un-

fortunately, the pandemic has disrupted our food supply chain and caused food shortages in our schools, and local communities need the flexibility and the tools to fix them. I’m proud to have secured these funds that will both strengthen our supply chain by locally

Valley Journal

sourcing food from Montana’s world class farms and ranches and support our students by providing healthy meals for Montana students.” The funding secured by Tester includes $3,639,907 in Supply Chain Assistance funds, $791,922 in USDA

Foods Purchases, and $727,981 in Local Food For Schools Cooperative Agreements. Tester secured this funding through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. This funding comes after Tester and a bicam-

see page 21

$5.1M for school districts from page 20

eral group of colleagues wrote to USDA requesting the agency work to address the food shortage and supply chain disruption schools are facing by allowing schools to purchase locally. $3,639,907 in Supply Chain Assistance Funds Supply Chain Assistance funds deliver direct relief from ongoing supply chain issues and improve the quality and consistency of school meals for children in communities experiencing disruptions, making it easier for schools to operate successful meal programs. Public, Tribal, charter schools, as well as nonprofit private schools and residential child care institutions are eligible. Supply Chain Assistance funding can be used by school districts to purchase unprocessed and minimally processed domes-

tic food such as fresh fruit, milk, cheese, frozen vegetables and ground meat. Each state will allocate the funds to schools based on student enrollment, with a minimum amount per district to ensure that small schools aren’t left behind. To strengthen local food supply chains, states have the option of using up to 10 percent of the Supply Chain Assistance funds to make bulk purchases of local food and then distributing these foods to schools for use in their meal programs. States also have the option of targeting the funds to areas of highest need. $791,922 in USDA Foods Purchases Tester secured $791,922 in purchases 100 percent domestically grown and produced food products, known as USDA Foods, for Montana to distribute to schools to offset the impact of disruptions to their normal sup-

ply chains. USDA has identified a large list of available products. Montana will be able to order these additional foods within the coming weeks, with deliveries to occur as soon as possible. $727,981 in Local Food For Schools Cooperative Agreements Through the Agricultural Marketing Service’s new Local Food for Schools Cooperative Agreement Program, Tester secured $727,981 for food assistance purchases of domestic local foods for distribution to schools. This program will strengthen the food system for schools by helping to build a fair, competitive, and resilient local food chain and expanding local and regional markets with an emphasis on purchasing from historically underserved producers and processors.

Valley Journal

Schools receive $2.7 million for COVID-19 testing News from the Office of the Governor

HELENA – The state distributed $2.7 million in federal funding to public and private schools this fall to help them remain open during the ongoing pandemic. The funding is part of a federal school reopening program to provide all the resources necessary to operate a successful screening testing program. The program is designed to test students and staff to identify potential cases of COVID-19, prevent outbreaks, and allow schools to remain open. The program covers expenses related to the prevention and detection of COVID-19 in the school setting, including staffing support. To date, funding has been

awarded to 75 total public and private school districts. This includes a total of 223 schools with an enrollment of more than 78,000 students. All Montana K-12 public school districts and private schools are eligible for this funding. To participate in the COVID-19 Screening Testing Program, public school districts and private schools can complete a brief online application to receive up to $45,000. The average award amount thus far is $36,394 per school. Additional funding is available to schools to support this effort throughout the 2021-2022 school year. For more information on how to order test kits, please contact Dana Fejes at dfejes@mt.gov, or at (406) 444-5520.

December 22, 2021 - 21

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL - SPEECH PATHOLOGIST (PART-TIME) The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) Early Childhood Services

The CSKT Early Childhood Services Department is requesting bids for speech/language services for the period of January 2022 to September 30, 2024. Scope of work: CSKT Early Childhood Services has an enrollment of about 270+ children ranging from 0 to 5 years of age. Children are screened at least 2 times per school year. In some cases it is recommended that speech/language services may be needed. Head Start/ Early Head Start locations are on the Flathead Reservation – 1 center in Polson, 1 center in Turtle Lake, 2 centers in Pablo, 3 centers in Ronan, 3 centers in Mission, 1 center in Arlee and the potential of home-based services for children 0-5 not enrolled in the program. The Speech Pathologist will be coordinating with the ECS Special Services Coordinator on referrals for children to receive services. An evaluation will be done by the Speech Pathologist and recommended services will be discussed with the Special Services Coordinator. Once services are started the Speech Pathologist will need to keep case notes on the children they provide services to and keep the Special Services Coordinator updated weekly. In some cases consultation may be requested by parents and/or Early Childhood Services staff on an as needed basis. It is required that the Speech Pathologist be a provider for Medicaid. The Speech Pathologist will be responsible for billing Medicaid for the eligible children that receive services. Early Childhood Services will only cover costs for the children who are not on Medicaid. It is required that the Pathologist spend at least 80% of his/her time on direct therapy with the child(ren); 15% of his/her time on documentation; and 5% of time on staffing/parent consulting. It is the Speech Pathologist’s responsibility to provide own training (CEUs) and licensing requirements. ECS will pay mileage from the ECS administrative building to various sites at the federal mileage rate. Specific assessment materials will be provided by ECS. The Speech/Language services will be needed for variable hours, but will not exceed 20 hrs per week.

Early Childhood Services operates from 8 am – 4:30 pm – Monday- Friday. Children are in the centers 8:30 am – 3:00 pm – Monday – Thursday, Proposal requirements: Proposals must include

1.) Professional license in the area of Speech/language services. Documented specialized knowledge. Relevant work experience must be shown in a resume or curriculum vitae, including outline of qualifications and appropriate credentials (copies of professional license, specialized training, etc.), and professional references. 2.) Ability to commit up to 20 hrs per week to the provision of this service. 3.) Proof of liability insurance or proof that the individual is an independent contractor. 4.) Proof of Workman’s Comp or exemption certificate. 5.) Description of recent experience in doing this type of work. 6.) Detailed description of cost required to provide this service. Responses should be clear in terms of incidental costs, as well as hourly rates, travel expenses, etc. All proposals are negotiable between Early Childhood Services and the contractor.

Proposals must be received by 4:30 on Thursday January 6, 2022. Mailing address: Early Childhood Services - PO Box 1510- 35401 Mission Drive- St. Ignatius, MT 59865, ATTN: ATTN: Speech Pathologist RFP. The proposals will be reviewed with a decision made in the 5 to 10 working days after bid closing. This is an Indian Preference Proposal. We reserve the right to refuse any or all bids.

For more information call Jody Jones at ext.5520.

Indian Preference Certification This is an Indian preference bid and Tribal contractors who wish to receive Indian preference must obtain a certification by the Indian preference office as a legitimate Indian-owned business prior to submission of the bids. This certification must be included with your RFP response. The selection of the successful contractor and award of this project will be per the provisions of the CSKT Indian Preference Ordinance 101A.

It is the sole responsibility of the bidder/respondent to obtain and provide proof of Indian Preference certification from the Indian Preference Office.

--------------------------------------------------------All proposals will become the property of the CSKT Early Childhood Services. The Tribes reserve the right to accept and reject and negotiate any element of any proposals received.

22 - December 22, 2021

Valley Journal

briefs

Follow the ‘Penguin Path’

FLATHEAD RESERVATION — Families are invited to one or all of the Penguin Path Stations location at the North Lake County Public Library in Polson, the McDonald Event Center at Salish Kootenai College, the fairgrounds in Ronan, the Boys and Girls Teen Club, (76 Third Ave.), in St. Ignatius and the Hanging Art Gallery in Arlee. All stations are open on Dec. 22 from 4:30-7 p.m. Get Penguin Passport stamps to enter for prize drawing held at 7 p.m. at each stop. Each stamp earns one ticket. You need not be present at the drawing to win. These events are free and open to everyone.

Over $90K awarded to support Montana Law Enforcement U.S. SENATE — On Dec. 8 Senator Steve Daines announced that $94,012 will be awarded to the MT Department of Corrections to support Project Safe Neighborhood, an initiative that works to reduce violent crime in Montana communities. “Across Montana, our communities are seeing a rise in crime. We must do whatever we can to support Montana law enforcement in their efforts to target and reduce violent crime, and keep Montana

families and communities safe,” Daines said.

FWP seeks trapper education instructors MONTANA — Every year, a new generation of trappers takes to the mountains and plains of Montana. Those new trappers need training and instruction, not only for safety and ethics, but also on how to truly enjoy the outdoor experience. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks needs volunteer instructors for the new Trapper Education Program across the state. Beginning in the 2022 trapping season, Montana will require aspiring trappers to complete a mandatory trapper education program. “We are excited to offer this brand-new education program,” said Wayde Cooperider, outdoor skills and safety supervisor for FWP. “Our goal for trapper education is to impart the knowledge and skills to be an ethical, safe, legal, responsible and humane trapper.” Just like Montana’s Hunter and Bowhunter Education Programs, the heart of the Trapper Education Program will be a corps of dedicated volunteer trapper instructors. “These instructors will stand as examples of how each trapper should demonstrate ethics, behavior, and responsibility to themselves, landowners, other outdoor users and

the resource,” Cooperider said. Many instructors say there is no greater reward than hearing a former student tell the story of their first successful trapping or hunting experience. Those interested in applying can visit: https:// fwp.mt.gov/hunt/education/volunteer-instructors, or can call Cooperider at 406-444-9947 for more details and an application.

Wolf trapping to open in northwest Montana NW MONTANA — After monitoring grizzly bear activity in the area, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks recommends opening Wolf Management Unit 121 for wolf trapping in northwest Montana. WMU 121 contains a portion of the Cabinet-Yaak Grizzly Bear Recovery Zone. FWP biologists have been monitoring grizzly bear activity with a variety of methods since early November. This includes monitoring collared grizzly bears, sightings of bears in the field, weather assessments and reports from the public. Based on the best available information in WMU 121, local biologists recommend opening wolf trapping for that unit. However, trappers need to be aware that grizzly bears could still be active and should avoid any area where bear sign is observed. Valley Journal

December 22, 2021 - 23

calendar Wednesday, Dec. 22 Flathead Irrigation District

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

Seasonal transformation

RONAN — The Flathead Irrigation District’s monthly meeting will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 22, at 1 p.m. Please use the back door at Lake County Extension Office, 303 Third Ave. NW, Ronan.

Kapi’ Shop gives tickets for latte purchase ST. IGNATIUS — Purchase a single-flavor $2 latte and receive a 12 Days of Christmas raffle ticket.

Thursday, Dec. 23 End of 12 Days raffle approaches ST. IGNATIUS — Napa is giving away a free pen light along with a raffle ticket when you make a purchase.

Friday, Dec. 24 Public invited to Christmas Eve service POLSON — Polson Community Church, 1814 First Street E, will feature Scriptures and carols at their Christmas Eve Service, which will begin at 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 24. The public is invited. .

Final day of 12 Days of Christmas raffle ST. IGNATIUS — Receive a free hot chocolate and a raffle ticket at Old Timers Café. 24 - December 22, 2021

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

A solitary tree stands as a sentinel beneath a sky of patchy blue and grey while snow sprinkled mountains herald the end of one season and the approach of another.

Saturday, Dec. 25 Merry Christmas Final day for early-bird basketball registration FLATHEAD RESERVATION — Registration for the boys youth basketball 2022 season is open

and closes on Jan. 4, 2022. Sponsored by the Boys and Girls Club, boys in the third through sixth grade are invited to participate. Practices and games will be held at different gymnasiums in Polson, Ronan, Arlee, Charlo and St. Ignatius. Practices begin on Jan. 4 and games start on Jan. 15. Early-bird registration is $25 until Dec. 25 after

which registration is $30. Go to: flatheadbgcsports. com to register and for more information.

Thursday, Jan. 6 Join Ronan Chamber luncheon RONAN — The Ronan Area Chamber of Com-

Valley Journal

merce January luncheon is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 6 at noon at the Allentown Restaurant in Ninepipes Lodge. This networking luncheon is a chance to connect with other local business owners and professionals, and learn a few tidbits to take back to work. Carol Blodgett (Blodgett Marketing) will present on the advantages of digital

marketing.

Friday, Jan. 18 Winter Film Festival on tap POLSON — The Flathead Lake International Cinemafest begins on Friday, Jan. 18, at the Showboat Cinema.

births Echo Hammer

Ruby Dexter

RONAN — Echo Marie Longtree Hammer was born on Dec. 1, 2021, at the St. Luke New BeginEcho nings Hammer Birth Center. She weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces. Parents are Pascal Hammer III and Motieka Longtree of Ronan. Paternal grandparents are Shy Fawn Bird and Pascal Hammer of Ronan. Maternal grandparent is Victoria Azure of Ronan.

POLSON — Titus, Pearl, and Nolan Dexter announce the birth of their sister, Ruby Dawn Dexter. She was born on Oct. 19, 2021, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. Ruby was 20 inches long and weighed 7 pounds, 2 ounces. Her parents are Jessica and Evan Dexter of Polson. Maternal grandparents are Renee and Timothy Ruby LaFleur. Dexter Paternal

grandparents are Nancee and Gordon Dexter.

Avalynn Close POLSON — Camdyn Close announces the birth of sister, Avalynn Jean Close, who was born on Oct. 3, 2021, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. Avalynn was 19 inches long and weighed Avalynn Close 6 pounds, 12 ounces. Her parents are Mateel Muth and Christian Close of Polson.

Maternal grandparent is Leslie Muth. Maternal great-grandparents are Janet and LeRoy Lafrinire. Paternal grandparent is Shawna Close. Paternal great-grandparent is Duane Close.

Kash Stevens POLSON — Kash Reign Stevens was born Sept. 29, 2021, at the Nesting Place in Providence St. Joseph Medical Center. He was Kash 21 inchStevens

es long and weighed 8 pounds, 9 ounces. Kash’s parents are Chantel Jenkins and Joe Stevens of Pablo. He joins sisters, Mataya and Kobe and brothers, Kyson and Quinn in the Stevens home. Maternal grandparents are Teresa Roland and Sherman Jenkins. Paternal grandparents are Patty and Willie Stevens.

Aspen Razo POLSON — Aspen Luxe Razo was born on Nov. 9, 2021, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. She was 20 inches long and weighed 7 pounds, 7.8 ounces. Her par-

ents are Dominga Ground and Dontaye Razo. Aspen joins siblings, Aspen Razo Alex, Aleigha, Thomas and Baby Dontaye in the Razo home. Maternal grandparents are Dawn Ground and John Ground III. Maternal great-grandparents are Evelyn Ground and John Ground II. Paternal grandparents are Melissa Matte and Terry and Anastasia Razo. Paternal great-grandparent is Lynda Beaudry.

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Valley Journal

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December 22, 2021 - 25

seniors St. Ignatius By Irene Pritsak for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — As we all get ready to celebrate the holiday season with our family and friends, we want to express how grateful we are to all our members and volunteers. This is truly a great community with a big heart. We would like to thank those who have donated to help keep our meal programs going and to the volunteers who are the heart of our center. And many thanks goes to the anonymous sidewalk angel who shoveled for us and did not stick around to be identified or thanked. We are helping with the St. Ignatius Schools coat and hat drive. If you have any new or gently used donations, you can drop them off at the center or at the school. They would especially welcome items of clothing for smaller children. Thank you. Our menu for the week: — Friday, Dec. 24: no meal — Tuesday, Dec. 28: scalloped potatoes with ham, rolls, veggies, fruit, dessert

— Friday, Dec. 31:soup, sandwiches, green salad, fruit, dessert Merry Christmas and Happy Everything to us all.

Dixon

sagna, salad, rolls, dessert Pinochle will be back in the spring. We will be taking a break during the winter for the safety of our seniors. Feel welcome to place an order in advance by calling 406246-3310. All ages are welcome.

By Heather Rush for the Valley Journal

Polson

DIXON — Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at the Dixon Senior Center. The Dixon Senior Center continues to serve our community and hopes everyone is staying happy and healthy. All are invited to come enjoy dinner. Meals will be served Monday and Thursday evenings at 5 p.m. Meals are $4 per serving and are deliverable to Dixon residents upon request. We are also accepting take-out meal requests for $5 per serving. The menu is: — Thursday, Dec. 23: dinnertuna casserole, vegetables, rolls, dessert — Monday, Dec. 27: dinner- potato soup, salad, rolls, dessert — Thursday, Dec. 30: dinner- la-

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — Happy New Year from the officers, directors and staff at the Polson Senior Center. We are located at 504 Third Ave. E., and open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays. Lunch is available from 11:45 a.m.12:30 p.m. weekdays for $5. Dine-in, take-out, and delivery to a shut- in are available. Individuals and small groups are always welcome to lounge, work puzzles, read, play card or board games, billiards, etc. Our activities are a great way to meet old friends and create new friendships. Call us with your questions at 406-883-4735, or email us at: polsonseniorcenter@

gmail.com. The V.A. representative will be available here on Tuesday, Dec. 21, between 10 a.m. and noon. Activities: — Exercise for mobility: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 10:30–11:30 a.m. — Bridge: Tuesdays and Fridays: Postponed. Call or come in to place your name on the players list — Mahjong: Wednesdays, 12:30 p.m. (multiple tables) — Pinochle: Thursdays, 12:30 p.m. We play 3, 4, or 5 hands per table. Coaching available. — Bingo: Fridays, 7 p.m. — Pool: Thursdays? We are considering recreational pool tournaments (Round-Robin format), with a two-hour time limit, or longer, if agreed upon - for anyone 50+ years or older. Play would be at 3 p.m. on Thursdays, or any other time or day preferred by players. No long-term league play. Pool is free of charge, and no entry fee for participants will be required. The winner each week gets “braggin’ rights” for a week. The rules are to play nice and have fun on a cold winter day. Come on down and practice

with a friend. Organized weekly pool games would start Jan. 6, 2022. Practice from 8 to 11:30 a.m. and noon to 3 p.m. on most weekdays. Menu: — Wednesday, Dec. 22: enchiladas with beef, refried beans, Frito salad, angel food cake with sauce — Thursday, Dec. 23: corn dogs, tots, mixed veggies, 3-bean salad, no-bake cookies — Friday, Dec. 24: hot turkey sandwich, raw carrots and celery, chips, green salad, fruit bar — Monday, Dec. 27: Navy bean soup, peanut butter sandwich, green salad, cookies — Tuesday, Dec. 28: pot pie, biscuit, cheesy broccoli, cole slaw, dump cake — Wednesday, Dec. 29: Swiss steak, garlic potatoes, green beans, copper penny salad, lemon pudding — Thursday, Dec. 30: blackeyed peas/rice (Hoppin’ Johns), peas ‘n carrots, tomato aspic salad, orange cake — Friday, Dec. 31: cook’s choice, pot-luck soup, green salad, banana bread, various desserts

Administration to lower drug costs for Montana seniors, protect rural pharmacies News from the office of Senator Tester

U.S. SENATE — Following an aggressive push, U.S. Senator Jon Tester announced that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services agreed to help lower prescription drug costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries by taking administrative action to address direct and indirect remuneration fees. Tester pushed hard for CMS to take this action after introducing bipartisan legislation earlier this year to combat the high cost of prescription drug prices and the predatory 26 - December 22, 2021

practices of corporate middlemen known as Pharmacy Benefit Managers. Tester’s legislation, the Pharmacy DIR Reform to Reduce Senior Drug Costs Act, ensures that all pharmacy price concessions are made clear at the point of sale, eliminating the retroactive nature of DIR clawback fees. CMS estimates this change will save Medicare beneficiaries an estimated $7.1 to $9.2 billion in reduced cost sharing. “Rural pharmacies are a cornerstone of Montana communities, and they’re critical to making

sure folks in our frontier communities can access the medications they need to stay healthy,” said Tester. “But Montana’s small pharmacies are being hit with hidden fees charged by corporate middlemen, driving up drug costs for Montana seniors and families. I’m glad the Administration has agreed to work with me to lower costs, and I’m going to keep pushing to hold CMS accountable and make sure this forthcoming rule has real teeth that will protect Montana pharmacies and patients.” Under Medicare Part D, Medicare makes payments

to private Part D insurers for delivering prescription drug benefits to Medicare beneficiaries. Often, the Part D insurer or its PBM receives additional payments after the drug is sold to the patient that changes the final cost of the drug. These are called DIR fees. In recent years, PBMs have increasingly returned to pharmacies days or even months after the final sale to demand more in DIR fees. From 2010 to 2019, CMS documented a 91,500 percent increase in DIR fees paid by pharmacies. In October, Tester and a

Valley Journal

bipartisan group of his colleagues sent a letter urging CMS to work with Congress to address DI fees to help lower prescription drug prices for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. “We write today to discuss our serious concerns about the impact direct and indirect remuneration fees are having on the cost of drugs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries and pharmacy bottom lines,” wrote the Senators. “We urge you to work with Congress to require pharmacy price concessions, payments, and fees be included at the point-of-sale under

Part D of the Medicare program. It is time we stand up for seniors and address this broken system that sees people paying far too much for prescription drugs.” They concluded: “We also note that Congress already provided the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services with sufficient authority to make the necessary changes administratively. With multiple avenues available to fix this problem, it is imperative that we work together to reform DIR fees, reduce drug costs, and protect pharmacies.”

classifieds Auctions JOHNCO STORAGE: Public sale JANUARY 5, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at 808 7th Street East, Polson. Sell to highest bidder for CASH OR CERTIFIED CHECK ONLY, contents of units 48 AND 161. Units are subject to redemption prior to sale time. 883-5405.

Wanted WANTED TO BUY Guns and/or ammunition, old or new. Whole estates/collections or single pieces. Fair prices paid. 207-4641

Employment Help wanted TCC TRANSPORTATION SPECIALIST (1 OR MORE POSITIONS) TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must be 18 years or older with a high school diploma/ GED. Possess a current and

valid Montana driver’s license and be insurable under the Tribes’ fleet policy. A current physical exam or ability to obtain physical exam upon hire. Current on required immunizations or ability to become current upon hire. Verified of recent TB screening or ability to complete the required screening. Certification in CPR/First Aid or obtain one within six months of hire. Certificate in Defensive and Distracted Driving course; or get one within six months of hire. Certificate in Passenger Service and Safety, or obtain one within six months. Salary is $13.58 - $15.60 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact the Tribal Personnel Office at (406) 675-2700, ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications and full advertisement are available online at www.cskt.org. Closing date is Thursday, January 6, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m.(MST). CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. TCC REGISTERED NURSE CARE MANAGER (2 positions – Hot Springs, Elmo) - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must be a graduate of an accredited school of nursing. Current,

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unrestricted Registered Nurse license from the State of Montana or compact state. Preference in having one year nursing experience. Basic Life Support certification. Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred. Certification in Care Coordination is preferred, required within one (1) year of employment. Must possess a valid driver’s license. Salary is $30.40 $34.94 per hour, plus benefits, may be employed under a contract. To apply, contact the Tribal Personnel Office at (406) 675-2700, ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications and full advertisement are available online at www.cskt.org. Closing date is Thursday, January 6, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m.(MST). CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. TCC LEAD REGISTERED NURSE CARE MANAGER TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must be a graduate of an accredited school of nursing. Preference of a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Current, unrestricted Registered Nurse License from the State of Montana or compact state. Two years’ nursing experience, chron-

ic disease management preferred. Must have at least three years of supervisory experience. Basic Life Support certification. Advanced Cardiac Life Support preferred. Certificate in Care Coordination preferred, required within one (1) year of employment. Salary is $36.09 - $41.49 per hour, plus benefits, may be employed under a contract. To apply, contact the Tribal Personnel Office at (406) 675-2700, ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications and full advertisement are available online at www.cskt.org. Closing date is Thursday, January 6, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. (MST). CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. Due to expansion, Enviro-Tire is accepting applications for 1-2 additional driving positions. No tire loading, drop and hook only. CDL Class A Truck Driver with doubles endorsement for Montana, Idaho and Washington day runs. Home every night. Work site is in Lonepine, Mt. Year-round, full-time position. Pay $20.00+ per hour DOE and ability. Mandatory DOT drug testing. Vacation & holiday pay. Office phone and fax (406) 755-7716, enviro-tire@

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FOSTER CARE SOCIAL WORKER TRAINEE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT The successful applicant must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and/ or Psychology, or currently attending college working towards obtaining BSW or BA in Psychology, with a minimum of 5-8 months’ actual work experience in the Child Welfare Service field. Must be able to type neat professional reports, letters and use various text based computer programs including MS Word, MS PowerPoint, MS Publisher, MS Excel, Adobe Acrobat and other PDF documents for storage and transfer of information. Must pass a background investigation if hired. Must have never been convicted of or pled guilty to a felony crime of domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, sexual offense or a crime of violence. Must not be involved with any child or social service protection agency as a client, no alcohol or drug abuse or domestic violence charges within the past five (5) years. Must not have resigned to avoid disciplinary actions or have been dismissed from

employment within the past three (3) years. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. The successful applicant will participate in on-call duties on a rotating schedule. This position is a mandatory reporter. This position is subject to a background check in accordance with Public Law 101-630. Will maintain and participate in other duties as assigned. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, a copy of academic transcripts/training certificates, a copy of current valid driver’s license and proof of insurance and a proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve

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classifieds Help Wanted cont’d from pg. 27 a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary range: $16.33 to $18.77 per hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1259/1040. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org. Closing date will be Monday, Jan. 3rd, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. BUSINESS MANAGER CHAR-KOOSTA NEWS (RE-ADVERTISED DUE TO LACK OF QUALIFIED APPLICANTS) The successful applicant must possess an Associate’s Degree in accounting or other business related field or a high school degree or G.E.D. with at least three (3) years’ documented professional experience in accounts receivable, financial reporting, bookkeeping, and computer software such as Microsoft Office and Quickbooks or similar software. Must have a

valid Montana driver’s license and current proof of vehicle insurance. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript and/or training certificate, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference a copy of DD214 must be submitted. Rate of pay is $15.12 to $19.64 an hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1259 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available on-line at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, January 6, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. This position is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass a pre-hire drug test. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. NOTICE OF VACANCY December 16, 2021 The Town of St. Ignatius is requesting letters of interest to be submitted to fill the upcoming vacancy on the town council. The new term will

begin January 2022. All applicants must be a TOWN resident and reside within the city limits. The letter of interest MUST be submitted to the Clerk/Treasurer at PO Box 103, St. Ignatius, MT by 5:00 pm on Tuesday, January 4, 2022. Any letters of interest submitted after this deadline will not be considered. The letters of interest should include the full name of the person interested, contact information, and any information that he or she would like the Town Council to consider. For more information regarding Duties and Powers of a Council Member, please contact Mary Leishman, Clerk/Treasurer at clerk@ townofstignatius.com. CSKT Early Childhood Services - Request for Proposal - Snow Plowing FY 2021 - 2022 Early Childhood Services is seeking bids to maintain parking lots and sidewalks during the winter season on an as needed basis. Snow removal/ maintenance includes plowing the parking lot before staff and children arrive for the day. In addition, shoveling and laying

out ice melt on the walkways. Early Childhood Services has 10 building sites located on the reservation that will need these services: 1) Polson Head Start 301 8th Ave W, Polson, MT 2) Turtle Lake Early - 37181 Turtle Lake Loop, Polson, MT (Currently Closed) 3 ) Pablo College Drive - 35639 Stanger Loop, Pablo, MT 4) Pablo Early Head Start 36156 Division S t, Pablo, MT 5) Ronan Head Start 30 2nd Circle NE, Ronan, MT 6) Pache Early Start - 47181 Beaverhead Ln, Ronan, MT 7) Misson Early Head Start 307 Old Hwy. 93 S, St. Ignatius, MT (Currently Closed) 8) Mission Head Start - 28 Toweepah Ln, St. Ignatius, MT 9) Growing Words Early Head Start - 87 Alexander Ln, St. Ignatius, MT 10) Arlee Head Start/Early Start - 72691 Lumpry Rd, Arlee, MT 11) ECS Administration.- 37401 Mission Dr, St. Ignatius, MT Depending on the weather forecast snowplowing and shoveling will be coordinated with the ECS facilities/ transportation manager. Proposal requirements:

Proposals must include 1.) Ability to commit time, as needed, and upon request 2.) Proof of liability insurance 3.) Proof of Workman’s Comp or exemption certificate. 4.) Description of recent experience in doing this type of work. 5.) Detailed description of cost required to provide this service. Responses should be clear in terms of any incidental costs, as well as hourly rates, travel expenses, etc. Proposals must be received by 4:30 on December 30, 2021. Mailing address: Early Childhood Services - PO Box 1510, St. Ignatius, MT 59865, ATTN: Amanda Dupuis. The proposals will be reviewed with a decision made in the 5 to 10 working days after bid closing. This is an Indian Preference Proposal. We reserve the right to refuse any or all bids. For more information call Rick Clary at 406-745-4509. Indian Preference Certification: This is an Indian preference bid and Tribal contractors who wish to receive Indian preference must obtain a certification by

the Indian preference office as a legitimate Indian-owned business prior to submission of the bids This certification must be included with your RFP response. The selection of the successful contractor and award of this project will be per the provisions of the CSKT Indian Preference Ordinance 101A. It is the sole responsibility of the bidder/ respondent to obtain and provide proof of Indian Preference certification from the Indian Preference Office. All proposals will become the property of the CSKT Early Childhood Services. The Tribes reserve the right to accept and reject and negotiate any element of any proposals received. CHILD PROTECTION SPECIALIST DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT TRIBAL SOCIAL SERVICES DIVISION The successful applicant is required to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology or related field with six (6) see page 29

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Valley Journal

classifieds Help Wanted cont’d from pg. 28 months’ work experience with children/youth, at risk families CPS, Foster Care or Early Childhood Services This position is subject to a background check in accordance with Public Law 101630, 25USC Section 3201 and Public Law 101-647, 42USC Section 13031. The background check also includes child protective service checks and driving record checks. Must not have had a conviction of driving under the influence of substances or a per se within the last three (3) years. Must not have resigned to avoid disciplinary actions or have been dismissed from employment within the past (3) years. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license and maintain liability insurance. No involvement with any child or social service protection agency as a client, no drug abuse charges or domestic violence charges within the past five (5) years mandatory. All applicants must submit a completed Tribal employment application, supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, copy of relevant academic transcripts and training certificates, copy of current valid driver’s license and proof of liability insurance, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other

than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range: $21.26 to $24.43 per hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1259/1040. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www.csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, Jan. 6th, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. TCC SOCIAL ADVOCATE (3 POSITIONS AVAILABLE – HOT SPRINGS, ELMO, MISSION/ARLEE) TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must have a Bachelor’s degree in either Social Work, Health & Human Services, Community Services or related field. At least one year working in customer service. Care Coordination Certificate within six months of hire. Must have Basic Life Support for Healthcare providers within three months of employment.

Must possess a valid driver’s license. Salary is $25.17 $28.94 per hour, plus benefits, may be employed under a contract. To apply, contact the Tribal Personnel Office at (406) 675-2700, ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications and full advertisement are available online at www.cskt.org. Closing date is Thursday, January 6, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m.(MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. CHILD PROTECTION SPECIALIST TRAINEE DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT - TRIBAL SOCIAL SERVICES DIVISION The successful applicant is required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and/ or Psychology, or currently attending college working towards obtaining BSW or BA in Psychology, with a minimum of 5-8 months’ actual work experience in the Child Welfare Service field. Must pass a background investigation if hired. Must have never been convicted of or pled guilty to a felony crime of domestic violence, child abuse, elder abuse, sexual offense or a crime of violence. Must not have had involvement with any child or social service protection agency as a client, no alcohol or drug abuse or domestic violence charges within the past five (5) years. Must not have resigned to avoid disciplinary actions or have

been dismissed from employment within the past three (3) years. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. All applicants must submit a completed Tribal employment application, supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, copy of relevant academic transcripts and training certificates, copy of current valid driver’s license and proof of liability insurance, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. A favorable determination resulting from a completed background investigation is required for your placement in this position. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a prehire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range: $18.53 to $21.30 per hour. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1043. Tribal applications are also available on-line at www. csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, Jan. 6th, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

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Real Estate

Vehicles

Equal housing

Miscellaneous

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

INVENTORY CLEARANCE SALE Auto /Truck Starters and Alternators. 305 units, all remanufactured and tested for earlier vehicles, prior to 2000. Closing business. Selling off all rebuilt starters and alternators at 55% off. If your car or truck is 1997 or older, at this price you can afford to have a spare. They are also going to be harder to find as time goes on. I have them for the following cars and trucks: Acura, General Motors, Mitsubishi, AMC, Honda, Nissan, Audi, Hyundai, Opal, BMW, Isuzu, Saturn, Chevrolet, Jeep, Sterling, Chrysler, Lincoln, Subaru, Datsun, Luv, Suzuki, Dodge, Mazda, Toyota, Eagle, Mercedes Benz, Volkswagen, Ford, Mercury Call Jerry at 406-207-4641.

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Valley Journal

December 22, 2021 - 29

public notices R20W.

Public Notices Legals Legals LEGAL NOTICE On Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at 3:30 pm, the Lake County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing in the large conference room (Room 316) of the Lake County Courthouse. The options for attendance are through ZOOM* or in person. The hearing will include the following items: PENZ CONDITIONAL USE REQUEST Jason Gerbozy of J. Martin Builders, on behalf of Eric and Chrisann Penz, is requesting conditional use approval to allow for impervious surface area covering between 30 and 49 percent of the buildable area of the lot within the East Shore Zoning District. The request is associated with the construction of a single-family residence and attached garage on the subject property. The 0.67-acre property is located at 32500 Highcliff Lane within the East Shore Zoning District, and is legally described as lot 23A of the amended plat of lots 23, 34, and 25 of Weberg Tracts, a subdivision located in section 1 of T26N, R19W. WILLIAMS VARIANCE REQUEST Marc Carstens of Carstens and Associates, on behalf of Lois Williams, is requesting a variance from the minimum lot size requirements within the Rural Residential Zoning District (RRZD) of the City-County Planning Area of the Polson Development Code (PDC) in preparation for a twolot subdivision. The minimum lot size requirements within the RRZD are 1 acre for lakefront lots and 2 acres for non-lakefront lots. As proposed, the division would create a 1.38-acre lakefront and a 1.34-acre non-lakefront lot. The +/-2.78-acre subject property is at 34306 Rocky Point Road and legally described as lot 8 of Patterson Villa located within section 29, T23N, 30 - December 22, 2021

e-mailed: planning@lakemt.gov.

Information regarding the agenda items is available from the Lake County Planning Dept. Written comments received by January 3, 2022 will be included in the staff report to the board. All written and verbal comments are welcome and will be forwarded to the board for their consideration. Comments received after January 3 will be provided to the board at the meeting, which may not provide sufficient time for review of the comment. Comments may be mailed to Lake County Planning Dept, 106 4th Ave E, Polson, MT 59860 or faxed: 406-883-7205 or e-mailed: planning@lakemt.gov . Please note: If you would like to attend the public hearing via ZOOM, please contact the Planning Department at the email above or at (406) 883-7235 prior to the meeting to receive instructions regarding how to attend the meeting virtually. December 22, 2021 MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE On Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at 10:00 am, the Lake County Board of Commissioners will hold a public meeting in the office of the Lake County Commissioners, Room 211 of the Lake County Courthouse on the following item: A & T PROPERTIES, LLC BUILDING FOR LEASE OR RENT REQUEST Adam Rys-Sikora is requesting approval of a building for lease or rent proposal for a ten (10) unit apartment complex. The proposal would modify what had previously been the Jehovah’s Witness Kingdom Hall, into a residential apartment complex. The 2.4-acre property is located at 77341 US HWY 93, St. Ignatius, MT and is legally described as tract 1 on COS 4050, located within section 14 of T18N, R20W. Information regarding the agenda item is available from the Lake County Planning Dept. Written comments received by January 10, 2022 will be included in the staff report to the board. All written and verbal comments are welcome and will be forwarded to the board for their consideration. Comments may be mailed to Lake County Planning Dept, 106 4th Ave E, Polson, MT 59860 or faxed: 406-883-7205 or

December 22, 2021 MNAXLP Tyler G. Moss MOSS LAW PLLC 201 Fourth Ave. East PO Box 1128 Polson, MT 59860 (406) 231-1328 Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA S. KRANTZ, Deceased. CAUSE No. DP-21-80 Hon. Deborah Kim Christopher NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and that the address of the Personal Representative is set forth below. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate must present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice, or be forever barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of the 20th Judicial District Court, at 106 4th Ave. East, Polson, Montana 59860, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to the Personal Representative, c/o MOSS LAW PLLC, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at P.O. Box 1128, Polson, MT 59860. /s/ Linda K. Bowers LINDA K. BOWERS, Personal Representative, Estate of PATRICIA S. KRANTZ, Deceased. Dec. 22, 29, 2021 and Jan. 5, 2022 MNAXLP John A. Mercer Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP Attorneys at Law 312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367 jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: WANDA L. DASHNEA, Deceased.

JUDY McGUIRE-VOLLIN, Plaintiff, vs. WILLIAM THOMPSON and JOHN DOES 1-5, Defendants.

Cause No.: DP-21-83 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Case No: DV-20-190

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and that the address of the Personal Representative is set forth below. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate must present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice, or be forever barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of the District Court, at Polson, Lake County, Montana, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to the Personal Representative, c/o TURNAGE MERCER & WALL, PLLP, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at 312 1st St E, Polson, MT 59860. /s/ Chuck Wall Chuck Wall Personal Representative Estate of WANDA L. DASHNEA, Deceased. December 8, 15 and 22, 2021 MNAXLP Statement of the nature of the case: This matter is a claim for possession of a rental premises and damages against the defendant. The possession issue was resolved by stipulation, and plaintiff now seeks damages from defendant William Thompson. Defendant must respond to the motion within 14 days, after which the court may grant the motion to withdraw. Megan L. Dishong Montana Legal Services Association 1535 Liberty Lane, Suite 110D Missoula, MT 59808 Telephone: (406)543-8343 Email: mdishong@mtlsa.org Attorney for Defendant MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT LAKE COUNTY

Valley Journal

MOTION FOR LEAVE TO WITHDRAW AS COUNSEL Counsel for Defendant William Thompson moves for leave to withdraw as counsel of record. Counsel has determined that she must withdraw at this time, under the terms of the parties’ retainer agreement. Counsel requests that future filings in this matter be directed to Defendant at his last known mailing address: William D. Thompson 29521 Rocky Point Road Polson, MT 59860 A proposed order is attached. DATED this 29th day of January, 2021. /s/ Megan L. Dishong Megan L. Dishong Attorney for Defendant William Thompson December 15, 22 and 29, 2021 MNAXLP John A. Mercer Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP Attorneys at Law 312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367 jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: GINA TERESA JOHNSON, Deceased. Cause No.: DP-21-84 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and that the address of the Personal Representative is set forth below. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate must present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice, or be forever

barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of the District Court, at Polson, Lake County, Montana, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to the Personal Representative, c/o TURNAGE MERCER & WALL, PLLP, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at 312 1st St E, Polson, MT 59860. /s/ Jake Starkel Jake Starkel Personal Representative Estate of GINA TERESA JOHNSON, Deceased. December 8, 15 and 22, 2021 MNAXLP Matthew H. O’Neill O’NEILL LAW OFFICE, PLLC 402 First Street East, Suite 201 P.O. Box 699 Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: (406) 883-5444 Facsimile: (406) 883-1585 matt@polsonlaw.com Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LARESE J. REUM, Deceased. CAUSE No. DP-21-77 Hon. James A. Manley NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and that the address of the Personal Representative is set forth below. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate must present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice, or be forever barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of the 20th Judicial District Court, at 106 4th Ave. East, Polson, Montana 59860, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, see page 31

public notices Legal Notices cont’d from pg. 30 to the Personal Representative, c/o O’NEILL LAW OFFICE, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at P.O. Box 699, Polson, MT 59860. /s/ DeeDra D. McBroom DEEDRA D. McBROOM Personal Representative, Estate of LARESE J. REUM, Deceased. Dec. 15, 22, and 29, 2021 MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The Lake County Planning Board will hold a public meeting Wednesday, January 12, 2022 at 7:00 pm in the large conference room (Room 316) of the Lake County Courthouse. The options for attendance are through ZOOM* or in person. Agenda items include: FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT REGULATION UPDATE Lake County’s Floodplain Development Regulations dated February 6, 2013 are being updated to reflect the 2014 State Model Floodplain Regulations as required by the MT Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. The regulations are also being updated to address current language in section 10.4 concerning an existing exemption for agricultural structures. Draft language for section 10.4 will be reviewed by the Planning Board at the upcoming meeting. LAKESHORE PROTECTION REGULATIONS WORK SESSION The Planning Board will hold a work session regarding updates to the Lake County Lakeshore Protection Regulations. The Planning Board will continue discussion on section 5, dealing with the criteria for issuance of a permit. The current lakeshore protection regulations can be provided by the Lake County Planning Department or found on the Planning Department’s webpage. The public is encouraged to attend this meeting and participate in the process. LOT 4 OF STONEWALL ESTATES PHASE I “POTTERS SUBDIVISION” AMENDMENT REQUEST Marc Carstens, on behalf of Jed and Sheila Williams, has proposed

a material change to a subsequent minor subdivision that received preliminary approval from Lake County Commissioners on November 9, 2021. The original subdivision approval was for the creation of five (5) lots for residential and agricultural purposes. The applicant has requested that lot 4 have limited commercial use, in addition to single family residential use, for the purpose of a pottery studio and short term vacation rental for students of the studio. The applicant has also requested repositioning the hammer head turnaround. The lot for which an amendment is being requested is legally described as lot 4 of Stonewall Estates Phase I located within section 36 of T23N, R21W. Information regarding the agenda items is available from the Lake County Planning Dept. Written comments received by January 3, 2022 will be included in the board packets. All written and verbal comments are welcome and will be forwarded to the board for their consideration. Comments received after January 3 will be provided to the board at the meeting, which may not provide sufficient time for review of the comment. Public comments regarding water and/or sewer proposals for subdivisions are encouraged to be submitted in writing. Comments may be mailed to Lake County Planning Dept, 106 4th Ave E, Polson, MT 59860 or faxed: 406-883-7205 or e-mailed: planning@lakemt.gov . Please note: If you would like to attend the public hearing via ZOOM, please contact the Planning Department at the email above or at (406) 883-7235 prior to the meeting to receive instructions regarding how to attend the meeting virtually. December 22, 2021 MNAXLP Public Notice: The Board of Lake County Commissioners will hold a public meeting for the purpose of taking public comment on the Resolution listed below, on Monday, January 10, 2022, at 10:00 am in the Commissioners Chambers located at 106 4th Avenue East, Polson, MT 59860. If you wish to make a public comment but are unable to attend the meeting, you may email your comments to lakecommissioners@ lakemt.gov with the subject line Resolution 21-29, or you may mail your comments to the address listed above.

Resolution 21-29 A Resolution of Intention To Hold A Special Election For The Purpose Of Adopting Or Rejecting A LocalOption Tax Of Three Percent (3%) On Recreational and/or Medical Marijuana Sales Within Lake County WHEREAS, the 2021 Montana Legislature passed House Bill (HB) 701 regulating operation and taxation of marijuana businesses and sales; and WHEREAS, Sections 94-98 of HB 701 allows for a county to submit to qualified electors the question of local option marijuana excise tax of up to three percent (3%); and WHEREAS, Lake County wishes to call a Special Election pursuant to MCA 13-1-101 et seq for the purpose of approving or rejecting a local-option marijuana excise tax of up to three (3) percent; and WHEREAS, as of November 4, 2021, there were five (5) registered Marijuana Dispensaries in Lake County registered with the Montana Department of Revenue; and WHEREAS, Lake County estimates total revenue from three percent local-option marijuana tax would be approximately $180,000 annually; and WHEREAS, HB 701 mandates that revenue from a local-option marijuana tax, if approved by voters, would be split with fifty percent (50%) of the revenue going to Lake County, forty-five percent (45%) to the cities of Polson, Ronan, and St, Ignatius based on population, and five percent (5%) of the revenue retained by the Montana Department of Revenue; and WHEREAS local governments have limited alternatives for taxing authority, and a new local option marijuana excise tax would help diversify local revenue generation; and WHEREAS, HB 701 allows local-option marijuana excise tax to be used for any activity, undertaking, or administrative service that the municipality is authorized by law to perform; and WHEREAS, if passed, the marijuana excise tax will be assessed on retail sales of marijuana products sold at adult-use dispensaries or medical marijuana dispensaries, effective September 5, 2022; and WHEREAS, Lake County and incorporated municipalities may appropriate and expend revenue derived from a local-option marijuana excise tax for any activity, undertaking, or administrative service that the municipality is authorized by law to perform, including

costs resulting from the imposition of the tax or due to administrative burdens imposed on the municipality as a result of licensing or regulatory requirements imposed in this chapter. WHEREAS, a public hearing will be held on January 10, 2022, at 10:00 am located at 106 4th Avenue East, Polson Montana, Room 211, for the purpose of taking public comment; and WHEREAS, the board of county commissioners will consider written and verbal comments NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Lake County Commissioners adopt a resolution to submit to the people of Lake County a referendum for authorization of a local-option marijuana excise tax in the amount of three percent (3%) on the retail value of all marijuana and marijuana products sold at adult-use dispensaries within Lake County. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Board of Lake County Commissioners hereby refers the following question to qualified electors of Lake County: “Shall Lake County impose a 3% local-option marijuana excise tax on the retail value of all marijuana and marijuana products sold at adult-use dispensaries and medical marijuana dispensaries within Lake County? FOR a 3% (three percent) Marijuana Local-Option Excise Tax AGAINST a 3% (three percent) Marijuana Local-Option Excise Tax” PASSED AND ADOPTED THIS 29th DAY OF NOVEMBER, 2021. /s/ William D Barron, Chairman /s/ Steve Stanley, Member s/ Gale Decker, Member Attest: /s/ Katie Harding Clerk and Recorder December 8, 15 and 22, 2021 MNAXLP REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS - IRRIGATION WATER MANAGEMENT, REHABILITATION, BETTERMENT AND MODERNIZATION - CHARLO IRRIGATION SERVICE AREA CONFEDERATED SALISH AND KOOTENAI TRIBES (CSKT) DIVISION OF ENGINEERING AND WATER RESOURCES The CSKT Division of Engineering and Water Resources invites interested consultants to submit a Statement of Qualifications in response to the

Valley Journal

Request for Qualifications – Irrigation Water Management, Rehabilitation, Betterment and Modernization, Charlo Irrigation Service Area. The Request for Qualifications (RFQ) may be obtained from: Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes: Attn: Seth Makepeace, DEWR Team Lead, seth. makepeace@cskt.org, Phone 406676-2600. The Request for Qualifications may also be viewed and downloaded at the following website: http:// nrd.csktribes.org/ water-management/ Charlo Irrigation Service Area Project. Statements of Qualification must be received at the email address listed in the RFQ no later than 4:00 p.m. (MST), January 20, 2022. This Project will be conducted in accordance with the provisions of the CSKT’s Indian Preference Ordinance 101A and Regulations. The selection of the successful consultant and award of this project will be per the provisions of Ordinance 101A and regulations. Tribal Contractors who wish to receive Indian Preference must obtain certification by the CSKT Indian Preference Office as a legitimate Indian-owned business prior to the submission of their Statement of Qualification. Proof of Indian Preference Certification must be included with your Statement of Qualification in the form of a copy of the Certificate issued by the Indian Preference Office. Be advised that evidence of your membership or affiliation with a Tribe does not constitute Indian Preference Certification. Contractors must be certified by the Indian Preference Office in order to claim Indian preference. It is the sole responsibility of the submitter to obtain and provide proof of Indian Preference certification from the Indian Preference Office. Dec. 15, 22, and 29, 2021, and Jan. 5, 2022 MNAXLP John A. Mercer Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP Attorneys at Law 312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367 jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: JUDITH LEE MORRIS, Deceased. Cause No.: DP-21-87

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and that the address of the Personal Representative is set forth below. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate must present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice, or be forever barred as creditors of the decedent. A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of the District Court, at Polson, Lake County, Montana, or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to the Personal Representative, c/o TURNAGE MERCER & WALL, PLLP, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at 312 1st St E, Polson, MT 59860. /s/ Glen Haas Glen Haas Personal Representative Estate of JUDITH LEE MORRIS, Deceased. December 15, 22, and 29, 2021 MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The St. Ignatius Town Council has adopted on first reading a revised and amended City Ordinance 4-2-101 and new City Ordinance 4-10-101. The council will take public comment before taking final action at the January 4, 2022, city council meeting at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall on 12 First Avenue, St. Ignatius. The council anticipates that this change, if adopted on second/final reading on January 4, 2022, will become effective thirty days after final approval/adoption. For more information on the revised and amended City Ordinance 4-2-101 and new City Ordinance 4-10-101, please contact City Hall at 745-3791. Mary Leishman Clerk-Treasurer Dec. 22 and 29, 2021 MNAXLP

December 22, 2021 - 31

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