new 02-23-22 by Valley Journal

$1.25

your homegrown newspaper

Vol. 18, No. 23

February 23, 2022

Coats for Kids pg. 6

TAYLOR DAVISON / VALLEY JOURNAL

Tillie Marshall and Sharon Sansone, while organizing art for the sale, laugh with Irene over a discovered painting of a pig in a bathtub. Right: Irene speaks with residents who showed their support for the Marchellos as much as their business, visiting to congratulate them and wish Lou a speedy recovery. Many works of art were dropped to 70% off for the gallery’s final sale, leaving attendees excited over valuable finds.

Sports pg. 13

Crow’s Nest Gallery celebrates 50 years before closing doors By Taylor Davison Valley Journal

Schools pg. 16

POLSON — Members of the community showed up in waves on Feb. 14 to show some love to the Crow’s Nest Gallery and Framing as they celebrated their 50th anniversary before closing their doors at the end of the month. Opened in 1972 by owner Lou Marchello,

the Crow’s Nest has gone through a few evolutions over the years. At one point, the gallery itself was in the upper floor of the building, while the Main Street floor played host to a restaurant. While other businesses came and went, the gallery always remained. Neither Lou nor his wife, Irene Marchello, really expected to see the gallery reach five decades.

“We just started thinking about it when we hit 48 years,” Irene said. “It’s not really something you think about in the day to day. You’re just doing business.” Lou and Irene were married in 1990 after meeting by chance at an event in Red Lodge. Irene had been brought from California by a friend, and she and Lou got to chatting about

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

their towns. After a debate ensued on whether Flathead Lake was really the largest lake west of the Mississippi, Lou challenged Irene to come see it for herself. “It really was a hidden gem at the time. I couldn’t believe I’d never heard of it,” Irene said. Not long after that, Irene moved to Polson and the two became a team. Irene opened Polson’s

very first espresso shop and got involved in real estate, while Lou became involved in numerous public boards and committees to contribute to the community. Lou has been grappling with health issues for the last couple years that have left him unable to attend the Crow’s Nest anniversary event. Irene see page 2

“

County commissioners send letter to Governor for PL 280 funding relief By M.S. Sacry / Valley Journal

LAKE COUNTY — Lake County Commissioners and CSKT Tribal Council met in open session on Feb. 11 to discuss several matters, including a unique framework of handling felony cases for tribal members that causes more than $4 million in costs to county government. On Feb. 8, Missoula law firm Reep, Bell and Jasper sent a letter to Governor Greg Gianforte on behalf of Lake County, asking for relief for the burden of funding Public Law 280. “This problem pre-

dates your administration but has now reached critical mass,” the letter notes. Public Law 280 was passed by Congress in 1953 and transferred criminal jurisdiction over Native Americans to states from federal authorities. The state legislature authorized jurisdiction in 1963 and an agreement with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in 1965 has meant that felony cases in Lake County committed by tribal members are handled in state court. The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are the only

Crow’s Nest from page 1

had considered not celebrating at all without Lou able to join, but the two of them decided it was too big of a milestone to pass unmarked. Irene sent pictures of the anniversary cake and had a book out for visitors to sign in order to share with him later. “It’s a rough start to retirement, but we’re still hopeful,” Irene said. The Crow’s Nest continues to offer significant sales until they close shop at the end of the month. Several patrons attended on Monday both to find something to take home and say goodbye to the familiar establishment. “They really are staples of the community,” one attendee said. “It’s hard to see this place close down.” “There are a lot of businesses around here that have been taken over by people’s children… None of Lou’s kids live near here, so there was no thinking any of them would take over,” Irene commented on the changes to downtown Polson. “We’re proud of this, and it’s bittersweet… (But) there’s no stopping aging. Eventually, the young folks have to take over.”

vj 2 - February 23, 2022

We believe that it provides the best framework for law enforcement on the reservation...” - County Commissioner Gale Decker

tribes in Montana who have opted into this type of jurisdiction, according to legislative records. Other tribes in the state remain under federal jurisdiction in criminal matters. According to a legislative fiscal note in 2019, at the time 70% of felony prosecutions in Lake County were of tribal

members, accounting for more than $4 million in costs annually to the county. While the county is mandated per state law to participate in the agreement, they don’t receive funding to cover the costs of this law, causing the county commissioners to refer to the arrangement as an “unfunded man-

briefs

Scholarships available to PHS students News from the PSEF

POLSON — Twenty-six different scholarships for Polson students will become available this spring. These scholarships, 13 for high school seniors and 13 for Polson High School graduates, are provided by Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation (PSEF) organization. The high school scholarships will provide up to $1,000, and the college scholarships up to $2,000. Money for PSEF is generated by various fundraising events, donations from individuals and clubs, and from families who provide scholarships in memory of loved ones. Parents of students who are at-

Valley Journal

date.” County Commissioner Gale Decker told tribal council the agreement to process cases at the county level is one that works well, except for the funding. “The public law 280 is a model the county does not want to get out of,” Decker said. “We believe that it provides the best framework for law enforcement on the reservation; we think it is a benefit for all of our people, native and non-native,” Decker continued. “But what we have bumped up against is the funding of it. It has gotten to the point where

tending college should be aware there are many scholarships to provide financial assistance to PHS graduates who are continuing their education, as well as this year’s high school seniors. These scholarships are for an accredited four or two-year community college or vocational program. Qualifications vary with each scholarship. All students are encouraged to apply as these scholarships are for every type of student with various GPAs. The scholarship application is online at the Polson High School website under “Counseling and PSEF.” All scholarship requirements and applications can be accessed and entered electronically from this webpage. For more information and applications contact Chris McElwee at the Polson High School counseling office, or Chris Strom @stromchris2@gmail. com. The deadline for applica-

it takes up anywhere from 40 to 60% of our county budget.” Decker said the county has had to take money from other departments over the years to fund law enforcement. Previous attempts by legislative members to initiate funding from the state have failed. Decker said the county is waiting for a response from Gianforte’s office within 60 days. If no response is received, the county will then sue the state, Decker said. Tribal Council did not offer comment on this update in the county’s stance.

tions is March 21.

Dairy Margin Coverage deadline extended News from USDA

BOZEMAN — USDA has extended the deadline to enroll in Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) and Supplemental Dairy Margin Coverage (SDMC) for program year 2022. The deadline to apply for 2022 coverage is now March 25, 2022. As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing efforts to support dairy farmers and rural communities, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) opened DMC and SDMC signup in December 2021 to help producers manage economic risk brought on by milk price and feed cost disparities.

With more than 35 years of trusted experience,

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

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

(406) 883-1445

This Week’s Weather Forecast Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

February 24

February 25

February 26

February 27

February 28

12°/3°

19°/-3°

23°/3°

29°/9°

35°/22°

40°/27°

Mostly Sunny 4% chance precipitation

Mostly Cloudy 12% chance precipitation

Mostly Sunny 5% chance precipitation

Sunny 4% chance precipitation

Partly Cloudy 4% chance precipitation

Wednesday

Thursday

February 23

Tuesday March 1

Mostly Cloudy 19% chance precipitation

43/30°

Mostly Cloudy 20% chance precipitation

Flathead Lake Level 2884.51 ft WED

02/23

7:29 am

6:11 pm

1:36 am

10:42 am

THUR

02/24

7:27 am

6:12 pm

2:56 am

11:20 am

FRI

02/25

7:25 am

6:14 pm

4:12 am

12:10 pm

SAT

02/26

7:23 am

6:15 pm

5:18 am

1:13 pm

SUN

02/27

7:21 am

6:17 pm

6:10 am

2:28 pm

MON

02/28

7:20 am

6:18 pm

6:51 am

3:49 pm

TUES

03/01

7:18 am

6:20 pm

7:21 am

5:10 pm

Valley Journal

(849 ft below full pool)

Today in History February 23, 2021 High 37° F Low 28° F Precipitation 0.21 inches Record High 59° F Record Low -9 February 23, 2022 - 3

contents Coats for Kids ...............6

Schools .......................16

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

Obituaries ...................20

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

Calendar .....................22

Sports .........................13

Classifieds ..................24

river otter

ROB ZOLMAN / VALLEY JOURNAL

And find us online for

more photos, videos, breaking news and special sections!

www.valleyjournal.net

Boone Goddard

Summer Goddard

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

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

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

Taylor Davison

Jerry Beeks

Rob Zolman

Ben Stone

Editor (406) 439-1911 vjeditor@valleyjournal.net

Advertising Sales (406) 207-4641 jbeeks@ronan.net

Reporter, Production (406) 250-4828 sports@valleyjournal.net

Media Production (406) 676-8989 ben@valleyjournal.net

Valley Journal The Valley Journal newspaper (PE 23-190) is published weekly by Valley Journal LLC. Periodicals postage paid at Ronan, MT. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Distribution is by mail subscription ($59 per year in Lake County, MT; $74 per year elsewhere in U.S.) and by newsstand sales. Postmaster: send address changes to Valley Journal, P.O. Box 326, Ronan, MT. 59864. Your homegrown newspaper serves residents of Lake 4 - February 23, 2022

2022 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 2022, 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.

Snowbird Fund doubles grants for missing Indigenous people up to $1,000 (previously capped at $500) are made to individuals to offset the considerable expenses families and friends incur while searching, at their own expense, for their loved one. Assistance may be used to cover expenses such as: - Gas money, meals, and hotel stays as they search across the state - Cell phone payments - Tools like metal detectors and drones - Conducting a targeted awareness campaign - Hosting a community vigil Individuals actively leading a community search for a missing loved one are eligible to apply online at mtcf.org/grants/apply-fora-grant/snowbird-fund. Requests for assistance are reviewed by a Native-led grants committee. Requests for more than

News from the Montana Community Foundation

HELENA — Marking its one-year anniversary, the Snowbird Fund announced that it is doubling the amount available per grant to help families and friends searching for missing Indigenous people in Montana. Just a year ago in February, the Snowbird Fund was created at the Montana Community Foundation, Inc. (MCF) to support community searches for missing Indigenous persons. The Snowbird Fund directly supports Native families in Montana by providing immediate financial assistance to families or individuals leading the search for their missing loved ones in urban and reservation areas. Direct payments of

Pet o f

Meet. . .

Blaze

This is Blaze. He is a 1 1/2 year old Plott hound cross. He is great with everything. He is a very sweet loving boy who has lots of energy.

$1,000 are accepted and approved on a case-bycase basis. A decision is made by the fund committee and payment for approved requests is made within two weeks. “The Snowbird Fund opened a year ago as a resource for families during a very desperate time,” says Mary Rutherford, MCF president and chief executive officer. “A year later, that is still the intent of the fund. We want it to serve as a valuable resource for families and relieve some of the financial burden that comes from conducting these searches.” Besides doubling its grant amount, the Snowbird Fund is identifying ways it can increase the impact of the fund and awareness of search grants, especially as costs for food, lodging, and gas increase. “There’s a need for more

community outreach about the fund, especially in tribal communities,” said Snowbird Fund Member Ivan MacDonald of the Blackfeet Tribe. “We’re identifying more ways to connect with individuals, agencies, and organizations working directly with those who are conducting these searches so we can better provide this resource to those who need it.” The Snowbird Fund is a response to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) epidemic, which has been a problem for decades and continues to spread across Native communities, including those in Montana. Each year, Indigenous women and girls go missing in Montana, often never to be found. Native Americans constitute about 6.5% of the state population but account for

or visit our Facebook page!

helped to ultimately build support for a march for missing persons and a local task force to investigate such cases. “I would like to speak to Whitney about her plans for addressing the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women in Montana,” Bulltail, an assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies, wrote to Williams when she was running for Montana governor in 2020. “My niece Kaysera Stops Pretty Places just turned 18 and was about to start her senior year of high school when she was murdered in Big Horn County in August. Every level of the justice system in Montana has been dismissive of my family in our attempts to see page 6

the w eek

Classes keep you accountable!

contact

Mission Valley Animal Shelter Call 883-5312

27% of Montana’s missing persons cases. The Snowbird Fund was established at the Montana Community Foundation by Montana businesswoman Whitney Williams. Williams opened the fund, the first of its kind, after hearing from, among others, a Crow tribal member, Grace Bulltail, whose 18-year-old niece was found murdered in Big Horn County in August 2019. Kaysera Stops Pretty Places was reported missing on Aug. 27, 2019. Her body was found two days later by a passerby in the backyard of a Hardin, Montana home. Bulltail and family members felt law enforcement wasn’t doing enough to investigate the case, which was deemed “suspicious” by authorities. Stops Pretty Places’ family’s advocacy

Blaze

Spin, Bootcamp, Strength Conditioning, Yoga, Bones & Balance, HIIT

Sponsored by

Wright Real Estate Co.

www.missionfitnessmt.com

63228 US Hwy. 93 Ronan, MT

(406) 676-8610 www.westernmontanaland.com

805 7th St. E., Polson • 406-883-1001 Valley Journal

February 23, 2022 - 5

grant from page 5

seek justice for Kaysera. Whitney, if you want my family’s vote as well as other MMIW families in Montana, we need you to have serious plans that will dedicate resources to helping our families.” Whitney spoke to Grace and others who had lost family members in an effort to better understand the priorities and needs of these families and hear from those organizing grassroots efforts to search for their loved ones. Though Whitney did not win the primary race for Governor, she remained committed to helping as a private citizen. She reached out to the Montana Community Foundation for help in launching the fund to directly give resources to families. “There are so many families still searching for answers, and, unfortunately, many families who will face this difficult situation this year,” says Williams. “The Snowbird Fund remains committed to providing support to these families as they search for their missing loved ones. “Looking forward,” continues Williams, “We also remain focused on ensuring that families know about this available funding and can access help when they need it.” For questions about the fund, please contact MCF Grantmaking Officer, Elisa Fiaschetti, at 406-4438313, or elisa@mtcf.org.

vj 6 - February 23, 2022

Coats for Kids in need of a new operator by Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

POLSON — For the last 23 years, Coats for Kids has operated out of the Port Polson Inn. Now, the important community service project needs someone new to take it over. Started by Port Polson Inn owner Anne Engebretson back in 1999, she and her staff have helped to give away hundreds of coats to kids in the community who need them. The feat, she says, could not have been accomplished without vast community support. “We really want to thank everyone who’s donated over the years,” Engebretson said. “The community, Toys for Tots, the Marine Corp, the Country Store, a group of women who hand knitted hats, and Brent Bowman from the LDS Church especially. Their coat and food drive alone brought us three huge bags of coats.” As important as the project is, Engebretson says after more than two decades on the job she’s ready to pass the torch. She and her staff have spent countless hours over the years sorting through hundreds of donations, washing and storing the coats, and helping to give them away to people in the community. “The staff was a huge part of this. I’m not always here, and it’s a lot of work,” Engebretson said. Every year, Coats for Kids brings in over 100 coats. This year, Engebretson said it was closer to 200. The quality of donations over the years, Engebretson commented, has been incredible. Some people go out and buy coats just to donate, she said. The generosity of the

DPHHS urges Montanans to check for recalled infant formula News from DPHHS

TAYLOR DAVISON / VALLEY JOURNAL

Anne Engebretson may be retiring from Coats for Kids, but she still hopes to contribute to the community through her next project: book boxes.

valley is what has kept Coats for Kids going. “We’re just so, so grateful to the community. None of this could have been done without everyone who donated. It makes such a big difference,” Engebretson stated. Helping neighbors in need has always been the driving force for Engebretson and her staff. Helping the little kids try on their new coats and watch their eyes light up in excitement is something Engebretson will always remember fondly. “We don’t ask any questions, just come in and get a coat,” Engebretson said. “Our only stipulation is that parents bring their kids in to try on the coats. Valley Journal

That way they can make sure they actually fit, and the kid can pick out something they’ll really want to wear.” The Port Polson Inn is no longer accepting coat donations, but Engebretson remains hopeful someone else will step up to take on the project. Perhaps a nonprofit that has the room and the people to tackle the endeavor, Engebretson said. She encourages anyone interested to reach out to her at the Port Polson Inn: 406883-5385. There are coats left over to help get the next group started. “So many people in our community need coats,” Engebretson said. “I really hope someone will carry this on.”

MONTANA — Department of Public Health and Human Services officials announced today a voluntary recall of several specific products for infants and babies has been issued by Abbott, the maker of Similac formulas and other nutritional products, due to a concern over possible contamination at a single manufacturing facility in Michigan. The formulas identified in this recall have been found in stores across the state, therefore all families who use infant formula are encouraged to check the cans of formula they have purchased to see if they match the recall lot numbers. Detailed information can be found at: similacrecall.com. The impacted products include several powdered brands and can be identified by checking the lot number on the bottom of the can. The FDA is advising consumers not to use Similac, Alimentum, or EleCare powdered infant formulas if: the first two digits of the code are 22 through 37; and the code on the container contains K8, SH or Z2; and the expiration date is 4-1-2022 (APR 2022) or later. The recall does not include Similac Isomil, NeoSure, and all concentrated liquids and readyto-feeds. “Our message to Montanans is to take time to check if this product is in their possession, and if so, discard it,” said DPHHS Director Adam Meier. If a WIC participant’s product is affected by the recall, it should not be used. More information can be found at: https://dphhs. mt.gov/ecfsd/wic/.

Yellowstone celebrates 150th anniversary Daines, Tester introduce Senate resolution to mark event

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Jon Tester recently introduced a bipartisan Senate resolution to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Yellowstone National Park. Daines serves as the top Republican on the Senate’s National Parks Subcommittee. “150 years ago, Yellowstone became our very first national park, and ever since, it has been inspiring folks

from across the world to come see the great outdoors and what Montana and the West have to offer,” Daines said. “Our parks set us apart from the rest of the world, and they are an essential part of our Montana way of life. I’m glad to join the celebrations for Yellowstone’s 150th anniversary!” “Creating the National Park System was one of the best ideas that the Federal Government ever had, and Montanans are fortunate to have a slice of the oldest park in our backyard,” Tester said. “Yellowstone’s sig-

nificance as an important area for the history and traditions of Tribal Nations throughout the West dates back far beyond its designation as a National Park, and in the 150 years that followed, it has created countless memories for families from all over the world. It continues to drive Montana’s $7.1 billion outdoor recreation economy by creating thousands of good paying jobs in southwest Montana, and it’s my honor in the Senate to help champion our National Parks so that we can preserve them for generations to come.”

briefs

Attend Lake County Spring Job Fair

POLSON — Plan to attend the 2022 Lake County Spring Job Fair on Wednesday, March 9, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Red Lion Inn & Suites, 209 Ridgewater Drive. If you are looking for a new career or searching for a summer job, this is the place to be. For more information, contact Job Service Polson at 406-883-7880. There will be local businesses, state-wide businesses, military, medical institutions, schools and more available to talk to about employment.

Trapper education group meets News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

KALISPELL — The group responsible for developing Montana’s new trapper education program is meeting Wednesday, Feb. 23 in Polson. The meeting will start at 9 a.m. at the Red Lion Inn & Suites, 209 Ridgewater Drive. Members of the public are invited to

attend. An opportunity for public input on the agenda items will be provided near the conclusion of the meeting.

Flathead Reservation Fish and Wildlife Board to meet virtually Feb. 23 News from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

KALISPELL — The Flathead Reservation Fish and Wildlife Board will meet virtually Wednesday, Feb. 23. All interested persons are invited to attend. The meeting will be live streamed via Zoom starting at 10 a.m. Login information will be posted online at: https://fwp.mt.gov/ aboutfwp/flatheadreservation-fishandwildlifeboard. The board is composed of tribal and state appointees and a representative of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The board is advisory to the state and tribes and is responsible for the development of cooperative management plans, which include fishing and bird hunting regulations.

There’s no place like home... St. Luke Southshore Clinic Accepting New Patients and All Insurances

Offering: • Primary Care Services • Well Child Checks/Sports Physicals • Obstetrics • Flexible Scheduling

Physicians:

• Dr. Tyler Thorson , MD • Dr. Kena Lackman, MD • Dr. James Clough, DPM Serving the community at:

104 Rufus Lane | Polson, MT | (406) 883-2555 Valley Journal

February 23, 2022 - 7

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

Alsup pleads not guilty to theft, assault

POLSON — A Ronan man is accused of stealing a car that was left running and then assaulting a law enforcement officer after he was in custody. Bart Lee Alsup, 33, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson Feb. 16 to felony charges of theft and assault on a peace or judicial officer. According to court records, on Jan. 26, a man reported to law

enforcement that he had driven to the Town Pump gas station in Ronan. He left his car idling in the parking lot while he went inside because it was cold out. When he came out, his car was gone. Police were able to identify Alsup as the suspect through the store’s video surveillance. Alsup was seen driving the stolen car later that day in Pablo and arrested.

Then on Jan. 28, Alsup allegedly punched a detention officer in the face while filling out a health questionnaire. He later admitted that he lost his temper when he allegedly punched the detention officer. Judge James Manley set sentencing for July 18. Alsup remains in the Lake County jail with bail set at $25,000.

Zambrana pleads guilty to drug possession POLSON — A Pablo woman was committed to the Montana Department of Corrections at District Court in Polson Feb. 17 to Dolly Zambrana a total of five years with no time suspended

for dealing drugs. Dolly Blue Zambrana, 45, entered a plea of guilty to criminal possession with intent to distribute during an earlier court appearance. The plea was entered as part of a plea agreement that dismisses two other drug possession charges. According to court records, on Feb. 1, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant

on Zambrana’s residence due to a high volume of known drug users coming and going from it. Officers located and seized 26 grams of methamphetamine and a digital scale with meth residue on it from one bedroom. More meth and syringes were located in a second bedroom. Zambrana was already facing one count of crim-

inal possession of dangerous drugs. That charge also stems from a search warrant executed at the same residence on Feb. 5, 2020. Officers say at that time they located syringes loaded with meth and two digital scales. Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher gave Zambrana credit for already serving 101 days in jail and or treatment.

Foster pleads not guilty to felony theft

POLSON — A Ronan man is accused of stealing a firearm from a Polson residence. Michael John Foster, 38, entered a plea of not guilty at District Court in Polson Feb. 16 to felony theft. According to court records, a Ronan Police officer had responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at an area residence 8 - February 23, 2022

Jan. 26. At the scene, the officer observed Foster attempting to hide a model 53 Smith & Wesson gun. The officer had knowledge that the gun was reported as sto-

Michael Foster

len from an elderly person in Polson. When confronted by a Lake County Sheriff ’s Detective, Foster admitted that he took the gun. He said he took the gun to protect himself against Mexican cartels. The total value of the gun exceeds $1,500. Judge James Manley set a trial date of July 18. Valley Journal

National Missing Children’s Poster Contest announced News from OPI

HELENA — Superintendent Elsie Arntzen and Attorney General Austin Knudsen announced the theme for this year’s National Missing Children’s Poster contest is: “Bringing Our Missing Children Home.” The contest is open to all Montana fifth-grade students. This is the 13th year that Montana students have participated in the contest. The 2021 winner was Claire Swanson from Ms. Kim Gilligan’s class at Townsend Elementary School. Students must meet the following criteria: original and handcrafted art; 8 ½ x 14 inches; include the words “Bringing Our Missing Children Home”; include a written application, which includes a description of the poster and a brief biography of the artist; submissions must be received by Feb. 28. The posters cannot contain digitally produced images, collages, cut-outs, or stamping. The poster will be judged on originality, creativity, the use of color and materials, and the reflection of the contest theme. The written application will be judged on clarity, comprehension, and grammar. “Our Montana students are our state’s most precious treasures. A loss of any child is a loss to any Montana community,” said Superintendent Elsie Arntzen. “I encourage all 5th-grade students to bring awareness to our state’s missing children program.” “One missing child is too many. The Montana Department of Justice is committed to bringing home missing children and prosecuting their predators, so they’re put behind bars where they belong,” Attorney General Knudsen said. “This contest is a good reminder to young Montanans to be mindful of their surroundings online and in-person while bringing awareness to this important issue.” The winner of this year’s contest will receive a cash prize of $100, will celebrate with Superintendent Arntzen and Attorney General Knudsen, and will be entered into the national contest. The national poster winner will win a trip to Washington D.C. and will participate in the National Missing Children’s Day ceremony on May 25, 2022. In Montana, 69 children have been located through 51 AMBER Alerts since 2003. The Montana Department of Justice issues AMBER Alerts through CodeRed. To view the current list of missing Montanans and for more information on AMBER Alerts and Montana’s Missing Persons programs visit: https://dojmt.gov/missing-persons/. Submit posters and applications to: Montana Department of Justice, Missing Persons Clearinghouse, 2225 11th Ave., PO Box 201406, Helena, MT 59620

births Bentley Smith RONAN — Bentley Lee Smith was born on Feb. 14, 2022 at the St. Luke New Beginnings Bentley Birth Smith Center. She weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce. Parents are Josh Smith and Jeanna Bocksnick of Charlo. Paternal grandparents are Claude and Cindy Smith of Charlo. Maternal grandparents are Neal and Wiletta Bocksnick of Charlo. Bentley joins siblings

Brooklyn and Boston.

Noah Howard RONAN — Noah Apollo Howard was born on Feb. 11, 2022, at the St. Luke New Beginnings Birth Center. He weighed 9 pounds, 6 ounces. Parents are Matt Howard and Payton Sorrell Noah of Pablo. Howard Paternal grandparents are Joe Stiner and Angel Matt of St. Ignatius. Maternal grandmother is Christina Ducharme of

Pablo. Noah joins siblings Arrianna and Emberly.

POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will hold a workshop on Light & Shadows on Saturday, Feb. 26, at 10 a.m. Looking to put a little light in your life? We will learn all about shadows. What they are, how they are made, and how fun they can be. Join us in the library for story time, a shadow puppet play and hands-on learning stations. To celebrate February being “I Love to Read Month” we are offering books to be “adopted” for our youth collection. Each title is $15. Once you choose your book, we will create a bookplate with your message in it. What a wonderful way to honor or remember a loved one. In celebration of Library Lover’s Month, we are offering 25% off everything in our gift nook. The library is the perfect place to find that special gift for the book lovers in your life, or a treat for yourself!

RONAN — Aàtat Sky Bourdon was born on Feb. 4, 2022, at the St. Luke New Beginnings Birth Center. He weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces. Parents are Rochelle Salois and Damian Aàtat Bourdon Bourdon of Polson. Aàtat joins siblings, Jimmy, Kwelu, Basil, Lucas, and Snčlèp.

Neither does Medication for Opioid Use Disorder; your turning point starts here.

SubstanceUseInfo.mt.gov

News from North Lake County Public Library

Aàtat Bourdon

Addiction does not discriminate.

To find a Medication for Opioid Use Disorder provider near you, visit Montana DPHHS’ Substance Use website:

Library plans ‘Light & Shadows’ workshop Thursdays at 9:15 a.m. Join us in the library for Story Time. This program is geared toward ages 3-5 but all are welcome. We will read a few books followed by a fun craft or activity. Face masks are recommended but not required. Gwen Hadrits, a Parent Educator/Home Visitor from the Lake County Health Department, will join us on Feb.24. Join us at 9:15 a.m. on Mondays at the library for Mother Goose. Mother Goose is geared toward ages 0 to 3, but all are welcome. We encourage parents and caregivers to participate with their children for this early learning time. The doors open at 9 a.m. We will practice social distancing. Face masks are recommended but not required. The library will be closing at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 8, for staff training. Come in early to get your materials that day. We will re-open for our regular hours on Wednesday, March 9, from 9 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Smokeless tobacco products increase your risk of death from heart disease and stroke.

There are no harmless tobacco products Make the choice today to put your health first. Quitting is hard, but there is help.

Call 1-800- QUIT-NOW for free personalized coaching and 8 weeks of free Nicotine Replacement Therapy.

Valley Journal

February 23, 2022 - 9

valley views An evolution in community T

here’s a changing sentiment going around as young people dream about their futures: buying homes with friends, sharing a cul-de-sac with loved ones, getting apartments in the same building. Ask a young person and they will likely share an idea in a similar vein. A dream of being within walking distance to those they care about, of having loved ones close by. An aspiration for community. While being able to connect through screens is certainly a modern marvel – I can’t imagine having to live through an extended quarantine without being able to see the faces of my loved ones through zoom or hear their voices over the phone – it turns out it doesn’t deliver the entire-

ty of what we need. It’s you thought of them. Accidentally dressing the missing something. same as someone you see There’s a lot we don’t every day, or saying the know about the human same thing at the same mind, but psychologists have said time as someone that only you’re close about 40% to. These of the way small eviwe communicate is dences are something vocal. There I think a lot are elements of us have to our interA Taylor’d Approach experienced, actions that but mayrun much Taylor Davison Editor, Valley Journal be haven’t deeper, that given much we can’t thought to. consciously It shows there’s a thread perceive. that’s shared between huIt sounds a little out mans, but it doesn’t seem there, but it makes sense to be able to breach the when you think about digital divide. the way this connection That’s not to say there’s shows up between people nothing to be gained who are close. An old from virtual companionfriend you haven’t talked ship. It’s most certainly to in a long time giving better than nothing and you a call the same day

can do wonders to keep feelings of isolation at bay. However, there are limits as to what can be shared in a two-dimensional space, and it doesn’t achieve the entirety of what we long for as social animals. So, what does that mean for generations that have grown up with so many virtual connections? Adaptation. Young generations may not have had access to community in the same way as older generations, but deep down they seem to know that connection is missing, and they’re actively taking strides to obtain it. Instead of doing what’s traditionally expected, establishing single-family homes and living alone, statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau show they’re

We need more housing M

ontana has been discovered. We were the second-fastest-growing state in the country last year. Our rapidly increasing population presents many challenges and opportunities, and it’s also driving a lot of unease among many of us who’ve lived here for a long time. Whether you love it or hate it, that growth looks like it’s going to keep happening for a while. We need to deal with that reality and reform many policies very quickly to respond to it, espe-

10 - February 23, 2022

Over the past year, cially when it comes to housmedian home prices ing. increased more than Buying or 20% in Missoula, renting a place more than 40% in Whitefish, more than to live is becoming more 10% in Butte and Sen. Greg Hertz, expensive and more than 25% in SD 6 more difficult Bozeman. Homelesswith each passing month. Even ness in Montana increased by rural parts of the state that didn’t 16% in 2021. experience explosive growth like Housing will not get more affordable or more accessible until Bozeman and the Flathead over the root cause of the problem is the past decade are now feeling its impacts in their communities. addressed: supply. Between 2010

Legislative Notes

Valley Journal

co-buying houses with friends, they’re opting in to multigenerational homes. They’re making those dreams of community happen. None of this exists in a vacuum, of course. A lack of available starter homes and problematic inflation, the pandemic forcing people to reevaluate their priorities and navigate changing times, it’s all contributed greatly to this movement. There are restrictions now that prevent people from striking off entirely on their own. But when there is the luxury of choice, more and more people are choosing to coexist with the people they value rather than going it alone. They are deciding to create communities and keep their loved ones close. No matter how times

and 2020, Montana’s population grew by 10%, but our state only added 7% more housing units during that same timespan. In 2021, our population most likely grew at an even faster pace. Many areas in Montana need hundreds if not thousands of more homes. It is impossible for anyone or any entity to put a dent in Montana’s housing crisis without building more places for people to live. see page 11

we live in change, we’re still the same social creatures we’ve always been. When life forces us apart, we’ll always find a way to reestablish connection. Society will always course correct toward togetherness.

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.

Threats to democracy threatens conservation T

his is the year Montan- when people are unaware or don’t care. So, is our cherished ans celebrate the 50th anniversary of our nation’s first American democracy in danger of dying? The short answer citizen-initiated wilderness, is yes, but salvation is still the Scapegoat, and our first possible so long as we heed the new constitution since 1889 statehood that guarantees each flashing red lights. The direst flashof us the right to a ing light against clean and healthdemocracy took ful environment, Bill Cunningham place last year on a safeguard not Montana Conservation Elders January 6 when explicitly provided the defeated for in the United President (former States Constitution. guy) sent an angry mob to the Neither of these achievements would be possible today where capitol to “stop the steal.” The attack was fueled by his basetoxic partisan polarization has less claims of a stolen election, replaced civility and cooperaotherwise known as the “Big tion for the great-er common Lie.” It was the worst outbreak good. How did we get to this point of US political violence in modern times. President Biden and does anyone care? We’re likened it to a dagger held to not here to play the blame the throat of American degame but we absolutely must mocracy. Instead of this being get back to the idea that facts a wakeup call the Governors and the truth matter. Democof 16 Republican-led states, racy dies in lies, and it dies

Valley View

housing from page 10

Many Montanans have a built-in resistance to more development. We value the open space, scenic views, and the natural beauty of the Last Best Place. But the migration to Montana is not stopping anytime soon. Without more housing supply, prices will only continue to increase as people with the money to afford those prices move here. High-income individuals will squeeze out the middle class. The upper middle class will buy what homes remain,

and the lower middle class, working class, and low-income folks will struggle to find any place to live within their means. Most locals and long-time Montanans don’t have the financial resources to compete with this inferno of a housing market, meaning many of those who’ve been here the longest will be priced out. The one and only way living in Big Sky Country can be affordable for average Montanans going forward is if we build more housing. That necessary development does not have to ruin the

including Gov. Gianforte, have signed into law dozens of measures that will make it harder to exercise our most sacred of American rights, to be able to vote in fair and free elections. Never before in our history has a major party tried to turn election administration into an explicitly partisan act. The January 6 insurrection and the false claims of election fraud that instigated it didn’t happen in a vacuum. Distrust in government has been growing ever since 9/11. The seeds of discontent and conspiracy theories found fertile ground, a result the former guy has taken full advantage of. Never mind that there is zero evidence of fraud that would have changed the election. Never mind that 60 plus frivolous lawsuits contesting the 2020 Presidential election were thrown out, many from judges appointed

character of our beautiful state, especially if local governments get outdated and needless regulations out of the way. The biggest barriers to building more housing are restrictive zoning regulations. Some local governments are starting to wake up to this fact, but they all need to move faster and more aggressively. We need to build more housing units on a single lot such as duplexes, triplexes, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). At the Legislature, we hear about Montana’s housing crisis every day.

by the former guy. All that needs to be done is to incessantly repeat the Big Lie, then amplify it via friendly outlets and social media so as to insulate the base from the truth. The Big Lie takes on a life of its own so that Republican candidates either embrace it or face a difficult primary challenge promoted by a vindictive loser. Herein lies the danger. Democracy relies on respecting election results, even when you don’t like the outcome. It is about accepting the equality of others and counting their votes. Democracy cannot survive if a major party isn’t willing to accept defeat. As a result of the constant drum beat echo of the Big Lie an astonishing two-thirds of Republicans do not believe Biden won. There is growing concern that another baseless challenge to

We’re listening, and we’re watching what is happening at the local level throughout the state. This is one of the biggest issues facing our state, and the solutions need to be implemented.

Valley Journal

an election is now even more likely following the Big Lie. A terrifying percentage of the population actually supports violence to overthrow an election. It isn’t hyperbole to state that our democracy is on the brink. Republicans are twice as likely as Democrats to be worried about the future of democracy, but for the opposite reason. They wrongly think the Presidential 2020 election was stolen and that Democrats will do it again. Often driven by conspiracy theories they are the most motivated voters in America today. In contrast many other voters, especially Democrats, seem indifferent. The claim that the former guy won is a Big Lie not just because it demands belief in a conspiracy, but also because it

Legislators are working with local government representatives and other stakeholders; however, immediate changes must start at the local level now. (Editor’s note: Greg

see page 12

Hertz is a Republican State Senator from Polson. This column was originally published as part of the Frontier Institute’s “Legislative Viewpoint” series.)

February 23, 2022 - 11

democracy from page 11

reverses the basic structure of American history. To tell the Big Lie is to be owned by it because it demands allegiance to the Liar in Chief. If you sell your soul, what are you getting in return? A shocking number of Republican lawmakers, including Rep Rosendale, voted for the lie that forced them to flee the chambers on January 6. If there is a bridge across the huge ideological divide in America it is a common quest for freedom, an often heard battle cry for Republicans. But how can they reconcile their desire for freedom with their support for an autocrat who defies the checks and balances set up by the framers of the Constitution? A sore loser seeking to retain power by means of a violent assault against our nation’s capitol? Indeed, this is a battle to prevent an authoritarian theft of our freedom. Our freedom to hunt, fish and wander on public land, or to even have public land. Our freedom to be free of violence from anti-democratic extremists. Our freedom to vote. Impairing democracy is key to the former guy and his enablers’ ability to seize power. Once in power they won’t focus on the real problems we all face: Covid, inflation, the climate crisis. Instead, culture wars will be used to create fear, division and chaos with threats to shut down the government and default on the national debt. How will this help any of us? As folks with a long history of conservation in Montana we’re nostalgic for the good old days when bipartisanship in good faith produced good policy. We can and must get there again. But only if both major parties believe in democracy and the rule of law. One approach, radical as it may seem, is to tell the truth. And to tell it over and over again, using the same repetitive tactics of the extremists who create a fictional self-serving reality. Montana Conservation Elders is a nonprofit nonpartisan organization with a particular empha-sis on sharing Montana’s rich conservation legacy with Montana students.

12 - February 23, 2022

letters

Props to MME

Editor, My nephew has been a client of Mission Mountain Enterprises since 2008. Over the years, our family has attended many MME events. Each and every time I have been impressed by the quality of staff that work for MME. Friday, Feb. 11, my nephew invited me to attend the Valentines party at RAC (Ronan Activity Center). When I entered RAC, I was immediately approached by a staff member asking me how they could help me and I replied my nephew had invited me to the party. When my nephew arrived, I met him in the kitchen. He immediately introduced me to some of his friends and the staff. While they were preparing lunch, I had a chance to see the staff in action. While there are more clients than staff, it was obvious to me how intertwined staff are and how supportive they are of each other. An example is when a female client needed assistance for something other than getting across the room a male staff member would ask a female staff member to help and they would freely assist or take over. They say it takes a village to raise a child, in this case the village is a limited number of eager, respectful, supportive,

attentive, and committed individuals who make up the staff of Mission Mountain Enterprises. They are unsung heroes who work with every realm of persons with every type of disability. I was new prouder than to see my nephew is in the hands of these talented and very capable individuals. Doug Fry Polson

Censorship in speech Editor, We have long been liberal democrats, and we applaud Senators Manzella and Daines for speaking out against vaccine mandates and for freedom of speech. The highly effective mandate and vaccine marketing campaign promulgated in mainstream media seems to benefit not the health or welfare of the general public, but pharmaceutical companies. The “free press” isn’t so free anymore, eroding trust in the news specifically, and government in general. In this freedom of speech country of ours, we have had an expectation of diversity of opinion in media. Instead, today, out of fear of reprisal, those who would speak up on an issue opt to remain silent. And those who do find their words censored. Many of our friends, liberal to conservative, including health professionValley Journal

als, tell us they’re in this exact situation. And in Canada, protesting truckers are threatened with frozen bank accounts. We challenge the media to have enough respect for their readership to offer unbiased reporting on more than one side of an issue which information readers can then use to come to their own decision. Judy Preston Anais Starr Ronan

Give some credit Editor, Among the many Republican talking points on offer is the notion that Democrats have not accomplished anything important since Joe Biden became president - and certainly nothing that benefits Montanans. Let us take a look at that. Are we better off than we were in 2020? In fact, we are SO much better off that the information cannot be put into one letter to the editor - but let’s start with jobs and children. When Biden entered office, unemployment was 6.8 percent, the economy was shrinking, and job growth was weak. The American Rescue Plan averted a financial crisis through emergency stimulus checks, rent relief, help for small businesses, and other support. It funded the reopening of

schools and provided assistance to state and local governments. Montana also used American Rescue Funds to incentivize returning to work, and now has the seventh lowest unemployment rate at 3.5% One of the most effective and popular provisions was a monthly tax credit for families with children. Nationally, this helped 61 million children. Child hunger was cut by 25%. In Montana, more than 100,000 families have received these payments (which unfortunately expired in December). Christina Stoddard, economist at Montana State University, has given these figures meaning: “Kids whose families have more support when they’re young… we see those kids earn significantly more as adults. And so they’re better off, and their family’s future is better off so it’s this kind of multi-generational benefit… Children whose parents are receiving these kinds of programs benefit. Those babies are born healthier, the children in those families have fewer health conditions.” Let us give credit to an administration that hit the ground running, and got a lot of important work done, despite widespread resistance. All of us benefit, because we are all in this together. Gail Trenfield St. Ignatius

sports

Mission, Arlee advance to Class B divisional basketball action By Rob Zolman Valley Journal

BIGFORK — Battling in the 7B district tournament hosted in Bigfork, the Mission Bulldogs and Lady Bulldogs both placed third, nabbing bracket spots in the upcoming three-day Western B Divisional tournament starting on Thursday in Ronan. The Mission Lady Bulldogs opened tournament action on Thursday with a 60-24 win over the Plains Trotters. Madyson Currie booked a game high 20 points for the Lady Bulldogs followed by Kooper Page with 16 points. On Friday, the Lady Bulldogs fell 55-27 to the Bigfork Valkyries. Currie scored a team high 11 points and Page had 10 points. In action on Saturday morning, Currie booked a game high 16 points followed by Page with 13 points in a 56-17 victory over the Troy Lady Trojans. Currie led Mission with 21 points as the Lady Bulldogs gabbed a third-place finish and a divisional bracket spot in Saturday’s 62-35 consolation game win over the Thompson Falls Lady Blue Hawks. Both Kason Page and Gabby Smith scored 14 points apiece for the Lady Bulldogs. On Friday, the Bulldogs

opened the tourney with a 65-53 loss to the Eureka Lions. Zoran LaFrombois scored a team high 22 points followed by Ross McPherson with 10. On Saturday morning, LaFrombois scored 23 points, McPherson had 19, and Cederick McDonald booked 18 points in an 88-42 win over the Troy Trojans. Playing in the consolation round Saturday afternoon, LaFrombois sank a career high 44 points, setting a new Mission High School single game scoring record in a 79-41 win over the Thompson Falls Blue Hawks. With the win, the Bulldogs placed third in the tournament and nabbed a bracket spot in the Western B Divisional tournament. McDonald chipped in with 13 points. Over in the 6B District Tourney, the Arlee Warriors fell 88-64 to the Missoula Loyola Rams on Thursday. On Saturday, Benny Harlow scored a game high 14 points in a narrow 46-42 loss to the Deer Lodge Wardens. With the loss, the Warriors finished fourth in the tournament and claimed the final boy’s bracket spot in the Western B Divisional tournament. Also for the Warriors, Levi Fullerton chipped in with 11 points.

Madyson Currie

Ross McPherson

Valley Journal

CHRISTA UMPHREY PHOTO

Zoran LaFrombois

Kason Page

CHRISTA UMPHREY PHOTO

February 23, 2022 - 13

Wesley Anderson

Hayleigh Smith

Tucker Love

Charlo boys, girls finish runner ups at district 14C tourney

Story and photos by Rob Zolman / Valley Journal

RONAN — On Saturday evening, playing in the 14C District tournament championship held in Ronan, the Charlo Vikings and Lady Vikings placed second, earning automatic berths into the Western C Divisional tournament hosted in Frenchtown this weekend. The Superior Lady Bobcats narrowly prevailed over the Lady Vikings 34-32, while the Vikings lost a 51-50 nail-biter to the St. Re14 - February 23, 2022

gis Tigers. Entering the tournament on Thursday as the number one seeded team, the Lady Vikings opened the tourney with a first-round bye. On Friday, the Lady Vikings easily outpaced the Hot Springs Lady Savage Heat by a 20plus point margin 42-21. Mila Hawk led the Lady Vikings in scoring with a game high 17 points. Facing the Superior Lady Bobcats in the championship game on Saturday, both squads were equally matched

offensively and defensively throughout the first half of play, with Charlo taking a slim four-point 16-12 lead into the locker room at the half. Hawk sank a short jumper as time expired in the third quarter sending both teams deadlocked at 22-22 into the fourth quarter. At mid-point of the fourth quarter, the Lady Vikings held a 29-25 advantage, however a 9-3 scoring surge by the Lady Bobcats secured Superior the win and the district championship.

Kassidi Cox scored a Lady Vikings team high nine points followed by Hawk with eight points. After enjoying a firstround bye as the number two seed, the Vikings were led by Keaton Piedalue and Coyle Nagy, who scored 14 points apiece in a 55-43 victory over the Hot Spring Savage Heat in semifinal action on Friday evening. Wesley Anderson chipped in with 11 points for the Vikings. On Saturday, in the chipper against the St. Regis Tigers, the Tigers controlled the game

Valley Journal

throughout the first three quarters leading the Vikings by as much a 13-point margin at one point in the first half. With a little under three minutes remaining in the game, the Tigers held off a 9-3 scoring surge by the Vikings for the win. Piedalue led the Vikings with 13 points followed by Tucker Love with 11. Also in 14C District tourney action, the Two Eagle River Eagles grabbed a fourth place finish in a 63-45 loss Saturday to the Hot

Springs Savage Heat. Thomas Spotted Eagle scored a team high 20 points. On the Lady Eagles side of the court, Sarah Gardipe posted a team high 10 points followed by Tavae Goodluck with nine points in a 49-27 loser out game loss to the Hot Springs Lady Savage Heat Saturday morning. In the opening rounds on Thursday, both Goodluck and Gardipe scored a team high eight points apiece in a 6127 loss to the St. Regis Lady Tigers.

Up Next Boys Basketball Feb. 24 – Polson vs. Hamilton at Western A Divisional, Hamilton, 5 p.m. Feb. 24 – Arlee vs. Bigfork at Western B Divisional, Ronan Event Center, 8 a.m. Feb. 24 – Mission vs. Loyola at Western B Divisional, Ronan Event Center, 9:45 a.m. Feb. 24 – Charlo vs. Manhattan Christian at Western C Divisional, Frenchtown, 2 p.m. Girls Basketball Feb. 24 – Polson vs. Hamilton at Western A Divisional, Hamilton, 2 p.m. Feb. 24 – Ronan vs. Dillon at Western A Divisional, Hamilton, 6:30 p.m. Feb. 24 – Mission vs. Florence at Western B Divisional, Ronan Event Center, 1:15 p.m. Feb. 24 – Charlo vs. Manhattan Christian at Western C Divisional, Frenchtown, 11 a.m.

ROB ZOLMAN / VALLEY JOURNAL

Two Eagle River Eagle Cai Burke races past a Superior Bobcat defender toward the hoop for a score.

Valley Journal

February 23, 2022 - 15

schools Ronan High School holds first Budget Bites Food Fair By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal

RONAN — The students of the Family Career Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) club at Ronan High School held their first Budget Bites Food Fair for graduating seniors. Organized by family consumer science teacher Katie Umbriaco, the fair is meant to help kids be financially fit as they’re graduating high school and getting ready to start adult lives. “We were trying to think of a way to educate them in how much the average person can spend if they’re eating out all the time, and how cheap homemade meals can be; and how simple and easy they can be too,” Umbriaco said. “This is the first time we’ve tried something like this.” After noticing some students developing bad spending habits in terms of food, the FCCLA club and the culinary arts and economics teacher teamed up to find a way to help kids learn how to better budget their

TAYLOR DAVISON / VALLEY JOURNAL

Only about half the students in the FCCLA club had learned to cook at home. The rest learned from culinary classes at school. Right: Teaching students to cook tasty, simple meals in an economical way is the motivation behind this new food fair.

meals and gain a little cooking confidence. Seniors were brought into the fair by other teachers for 50-minute windows. In that time, students were given an activity to work out a monthly budget, and then the club demonstrated five simple recipes: a breakfast banana oat cookie with no added sugar, three-can chili that can be

made with venison or beef, quick fajitas, teriyaki chicken stir-fry with noodles, and pizza snacks. “We tried to think of things that would appeal to teenagers,” Umbriaco laughed. At the end of each session, students were given small cookbooks with each easy recipe printed inside to take home. The high school’s food pantry participated as well, making

Polson schools request new bond News from Polson School District #23

POLSON — The Polson School Board recently voted unanimously to proceed with bond elections for both the Polson High School and Elementary School Districts in May 2022. 16 - February 23, 2022

The bond proposal for the Polson Elementary School District is approximately $32 million, and the proposal for the Polson High School District is approximately $17.7 million. The Polson community has seen a steady increase in population and PSD is

preparing for the impact of that growth. The increase is leading to overcrowded hallways and classrooms in its schools. This growth has stressed PSD’s already aging infrastructure, with the newest school building in the district being over 30 years old.

ingredients for every recipe easily available to all students who came by wanting to try out cooking at home. “Too many kids think they just can’t cook, or that they’re bad cooks,” Umbriaco said. “I just want every senior to feel like they can be confident in preparing something that tastes good that’s economic too. What I would really love is if they

To prepare for this growth, adequately absorb the increase, and prepare its building for the future, Polson School District worked with teachers, administration, and the school board to develop a plan for the future well-being of its learners. This plan is a

Valley Journal

tasted something while they’re here that they liked enough to go try and cook at home.” Students voted on their favorite recipes at the end of each session, with the fajitas and teriyaki chicken tied for first place by the afternoon. Student interest and engagement bodes well for the future, Umbriaco noted. “We’ll have to make this an annual thing.”

comprehensive $49.89 million bond resolution. The goal is direct: to meet the short and long-term needs of the district with renovation and expansion at all schools, to address growth and capacity issues, and to ensure all students are receiving a high-quality education in

a safe and secure environment while thoughtfully partnering with the taxpayers and community members we value. In the last 30 years, PSD has only had one large-scale construction project and that was the see page 17

bond from page 16

construction of the Pirate Sports Complex. The district has recently utilized $4.1 million of one-time federal funds (ESSER) to address heating and ventilation needs across the elementary district. Additionally, PSD listened to its community following the failed bond election in 2019 and scaled back the proposed project’s scope and significantly decreased the tax burden. Polson School District’s Elementary Bond proposal would provide just over $32 million for all three elementary schools. This bond will allow for the realignment of our elementary schools allowing Cherry Valley to serve the district’s Pre-K through second grade students and Linderman Elementary to serve the district’s third through fifth grade students. Polson Middle School will serve sixth through eighth grade students. The bond will help expand facilities to alleviate overcrowding improve student restroom accessibility. It will also address cafeteria updates, gym expansion, classroom additions, and ultimately the health and safety concerns of each building with updates bringing these buildings up to code. Additionally, this bond would update Cherry Valley with additional classrooms, a multi-purpose PE and gym practice facility, updated kitchen facilities, and for the first time, a dedicated space for music instruction and performance. There would also be a renovation to the current school to provide a more safe and learning con-

Teacher nominations sought for Centennial Bell award

The newest building in Polson school district is over 30 years old. ducive environment for our students. Linderman Elementary will be updated with additional classrooms, a new library space, updated kitchen facilities, and a new music room. The bond will also renovate Linderman’s current learning environments to improve the student experience. The fifth grade realignment will provide adequate classroom spaces for special education, science, technology, engineering, art, and math programs. Finally, all three elementary schools will receive updated school entrances to enhance student safety and security. The High School district will be running a separate bond for $17.7 million. The main focus of this proposal is to remove outside modular buildings that have become worn, unsafe, and unhealthy to use, with a sharp focus on student safety. It would also allow expansion of the high school with a new set of classrooms to handle the increase of students, improving the safety and security for all high school students. These classroom additions would add space for new computer science and robotics programs, a Native American culture center that would house an experiential learning program, updated special education classrooms, improvements to career and technical education facilities,

News from the Montana Historical Society

and a new welding lab. Science labs would be updated to current standards to improve the learning environment for all students. In addition, the entryway to the high school would undergo a renovation to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Finally, all schools would receive an update in health and safety measures, including the addition of security cameras and safety systems. The 2022 PSD bond proposal plan impacts all students in Polson School District and creates a better and more successful educational future by providing adequate space, safety, security measures, and academic and extracurricular opportunities. Passage of both bond proposals would result in a 25-year loan term. Taxpayers would be affected by the assessed value of their homes per 100 thousand dollars. For example, a $100,000 home would owe $8.86 per month or $106.35 per year, and a $200,000 home would owe $17.72 per month or $212.70 per year. Voters will have the opportunity to vote on the two available propositions. Ballots for the bond election will be mailed on April 13 and are due back by May 3. For more information, visit www.polson.k12.mt.us.

vj Valley Journal

MONTANA — Nominations are being accepted for sevenththrough twelfth-grade teachers who have done an exemplary job teaching Montana history during the 2021-2022 school year. The winner will receive the 33rd Montana Statehood Centennial Bell Award, which honors the Montana History Teacher of the Year. The winner and his or her class will be honored at a ceremony in the State Capitol on Wednesday, Nov. 9. Prizes include a plaque and a $4,500 cash award to be used for classroom materials, field trips, speakers, and anything else that enhances learning in their classroom. In even numbered years the award is given to a teacher at the seventh through twelfth grade level. In odd numbered years it is given to a teacher at the fourth through sixth grade level. Email nominations to Norma Ashby Smith, award coordinator, at ashby7@charter.net. The nominations often come from principals, superintendents, fellow teachers, or librarians from public and private schools. The nominations should include the nominator’s name, school, address, phone number and email, as well as the teacher’s name, grade, school, address, phone number and email. The deadline for nominations is March 31, 2022. Nominated teachers will be asked to submit two letters of support. One can be from their principal, superintendent, fellow teacher, or librarian, and one from a student. Nominated teachers also should submit a one-page letter detailing why they enjoy teaching Montana history, including how they adapted teaching Montana history during the COVID-19 lockdowns, how they engage their students in learning, how their Montana history course recognizes cultural diversity, and anything else they’d like to share about their class or methods. Nominees will receive instructions on how to submit this material, with a deadline of May 1, 2022. This program is sponsored by the Montana Television Network, the Montana History Foundation, and the Sons & Daughters of Montana Pioneers in cooperation with the Montana Historical Society and the 1889 Coffee House in Helena. A gift of $100 in gold Sacajawea dollars is given to the student who writes the letter of support for the winning teacher from Judy Wohlfrom of Woodland, California. In addition, one gold Sacajawea dollar is given to each student who accompanies the winning teacher to the Nov. 9 ceremony from Mike Collins, president of the Sons & Daughters of Montana Pioneers and his wife Connie of Helena. Contact Norma Ashby Smith with any questions about the award or the nomination process at 406-453-7078 or at ashby7@charter.net. February 23, 2022 - 17

PUZZLES LOS ANGELES TIMES SUNDAY CROSSWORD PUZZLE

“On the Job” By Fred Piscop

ACROSS 1 5 10 14 19 20 21 22 23 25 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 40 43 45 46 48 49 51 52 55 56 57 59

With 21-Across, marching band instrument Feline weapons Vineyard measure Valuable find James who co-wrote and sang “I’d Rather Go Blind” Monsieur __: classic Jacques Tati role See 1-Across Had one’s fingers crossed M.D. on “Wheel of Fortune”? Fast-working “Downton Abbey” woman? Indian menu word “... a grin without a cat!” thinker How aspirin is taken Restful state Promising moment, as of wit Till stack Madness Coward’s lack, figuratively Aparicio in Cooperstown Dress (up) Float like smoke rings Painter in prison? Crime novelist Paretsky Crop up “Nixon in China” role Mutual influence Speak like a rug? Ideal for farming Quilting events Hurricane of 2011 The Who co-founder Prepare for a race

61 62 63 67 70 72 73 75 77 78 81 82 84 85 87 88 92 93 94 95 96 98 99 100 103 106 107 109 111 113 114 115 116 117 118 119 120

Hot rod? Shoppe preceder CIA operative in the Arctic? Dry run Happy cap tosser Delete “And Still I Rise” poet Unacceptable, as punishment Caramel-topped dessert Exodus obstacle Chem class part Partied hearty Site for used cars Short-vowel mark “The West Wing” Emmy winner, 2006 One rating singles bar come-ons? Smelter metals __ hours “Don’t play” music notation Gazetteer stats Drink from a snifter Wall map marker Princeton mascot Cell feature Trip up Derby drink Hill hundred Gofer at a ballpark? Displayer of truck-stop equipment? Flirt with, say Sign of spoilage Marquesses’ inferiors 100-year-old chip brand Ran standing still Digs for pigs Surprise ending Put one over on

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 24 26 29 32 33 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 44 45 47 48 50

Awards adjective For face value “Fear Street” series author Kids’ play places, across the pond Settle on Ill-gotten loot Some choir members Try to win over Secure for the trip Fan Pain in the neck Mystical character Liberty’s LiMu, for one Beatles’ “__ a Place” Oblong tomatoes Birthstone after sapphire Bridal shop buy Hot tub feature One of a coupe’s pair Time on a marquee Clark’s teenage crush Fishing line holder Gives the heave-ho Nature’s bandage White sale purchases Bank worker with lots of stories? City across the Mediterranean from Cartagena Marvin of Motown Guy hiding in a red-and-white striped shirt Sans-serif font Farmland tour giver? Advertising gimmick Elf Melodic sense Eponymous surgical family name Tear

QUICKSILVER EXPRESSO TAKE A BREAK!

51999 US 93 • PABLO 18 - February 23, 2022

53 54 55 58 60 61 64 65 66 68 69 71 74 75 76 77 79 80 83 86 89 90 91 94 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 110 112

Tear Hawke of “Sinister” Less carpeted One of Barbie’s best friends Hi-__ graphics Seasonal song word Back off Give this for that Historian’s subject Dry Italian wine Straws, e.g. Cockpit gauge fig. Be a chatterbox Metaphorical sticking place Auditioner’s goal Pat down English composer of the symphonic study “Falstaff” “That __ it!” Awards a seat to Skiers’ aids Corrections staffers Push for Like Jennifer Aniston’s eyes Typed in ALL CAPS, maybe Least wacky Mosque leader Not given to speeches Yank at Amoebae, e.g. “The Kiss” sculptor Recess rebuttal Piedmont wine region Hustled Longtime Kentucky resource Green hue Bollywood attire Whole lot Uncorking sound Rook’s call

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.

PZSES MES XMDI RMIO NW HNLDH WHERMEK, QCP NDYI NDS RMI NW OPMDKLDH OPLYY. - WEMDVYLD K. ENNOSBSYP Ben Stone / Valley Journal

7 days a week

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

675-5000

(near the walking bridge in Pablo) Valley Journal

Come in for: • Soup & Sandwiches • Coffee Bar • Free Wi-Fi • Ice Cream • Car Wash & Vacuum • Laundromat • ATM • Flathead Transit/ Jefferson Line connect

Full Service Espresso Bar

GfEsnacks HiU n s!! o o

ge ct sele bevera &

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

By: Magi Helena for the Week of Feb. 20, 2022 ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may be drawn toward something that will prove to be unsustainable. The spirit is willing although your bank account might not be able to keep up with your fine taste and wishful thinking in the week ahead.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You may have an opportunity to splurge on something that satisfies one of your hidden longings. Don’t be provoked by someone’s unrealistic expectations in the middle of the week as any misunderstanding should blow over quickly.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You sometimes spend without reservation but might not be as sharp about handling business affairs and finances as you think. You could be able to spontaneously express your creative side during the last half of the week.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Friends and loved ones may spark fresh ideas and perspectives or teach you something that is new, different or inspirational. Use them as a sounding board and benefit from their valuable feedback in the week to come.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Elevate from revelations. Note inspiring ideas and enjoy meeting new people in group settings as the week unfolds. You may be hoping for a specific black and white answer when the truth might dwell in a gray area.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may be showered with affection in the upcoming week, breathe it all in and enjoy. Your active social life may bring you in contact with new groups or organizations. Work hard and watch your money.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Sensibility is the word of the week. Keep your feet on the ground when your head is in the clouds. You will do your job better in the second half of the week when you are more selfless and goal-oriented.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Friendships may be a more comfortable fit than passionate romances in the coming week. There could be instances when you pursue something that isn’t quite what it seems. Get the facts so you can make an educated decision.

SUDOKU

CANCER (June 21-July 22): It is probably a good day to enjoy social outings or discuss your goals and dreams with a partner or loved one. Your schedule during the upcoming week may revolve around other people’s activities and pet projects.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Use your best manners to avoid complications. Disagreements over possessions or money could upset your happy home during the next few days. By the end of the week, your thoughtful ideas will be better accepted.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): There is no remote control that lets you fast-forward past the boring parts of life. Avoid making major decisions about your home or family in the week to come because you may be unclear about the facts and details. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A chance meeting with an influential person can change your fortunes. Remain poised to meet new people in the week ahead. Their ideals and inspiring stories can spark an interest in choosing better goals.

COMICS

Answers in Classifieds Valley Journal

Fevruary 23, 2022 - 19

obituaries Larry Skipper POLSON — Larry Dean Skipper passed away on Jan. 23, 2022, in his home surrounded by family. Larry was born on May 29, 1947, in Blue Mound, Illinois, to Harry Cecil Skipper and Dorothy (Armstrong) Skipper. He Larry spent his Skipper childhood exploring and sharpening his mechanical skills that he would use later in life. He graduated from Blue Mound High School in 1965. He then went on to attend Western Illinois University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in education. He used that degree to teach Industrial Arts at Palatine High School. He left teaching for a mechanical engineering career working at General Kinematics Corporation for 32 years. It was there that he met his wife Terry. They married in 1977 and had two daughters. He was very active in the Marengo, Illinois, community where he made many lifelong friends. It was there that he served as Alderman for two terms. He enjoyed woodworking and restoration. He spent many years restoring the family home with his wife. As a collector of 20 - February 23, 2022

antiques, he was always working on restoring them. While on a family vacation in Montana, he and his wife found the place where they would eventually retire. They made Polson their home for 17 years and made many friends along the way. In retirement he loved to garden and planted enough to feed the entire community. Always willing to lend a helping hand, he would go above and beyond for those he cared about. Larry was always very friendly and never knew a stranger. He is survived by his wife, Terry (Mergenthaler); his sister, Linda ( John) Hill; his daughters, JoAnn (Craig) Bourassa and Cheryl Skipper; and granddaughter, Zoey Bourassa and many nieces and nephews. There are no services planned at this time for Larry. All memorials can be made to The American Cancer Society. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at: www. lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

Charles J. Gariepy BULLHEAD CITY, ARIZONA — It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our husband,

father, grandpa “Grumpy,” brother, and uncle, Charles “Charley” J. Gariepy, on Jan. 19, 2022, at the young age of 61. Charles Gariepy Charley was born Aug. 16, 1960, to Peter and Joanne Gariepy in St. Ignatius, joining siblings Ann, Laurie, Fred, and later Cheryl. Charley lived most of his life in St. Ignatius, where he kept his neighbors and community safe working for the Lake County Road Department for 30 years. Proudly, Charley also served the community by serving as a member of the Volunteer Fire Department for 33 years holding positions of President and Captain of the Jaws of Life during his tenure. He was very instrumental in bringing the Jaws to Mission with the help of the Spokane, Washington Fire Department. Additionally, he held multiple positions within city government, serving as a city council member for eight years and as Mayor for 12 years. Charley also served on the Lake County Bank Board of Directors for many years, for which he was incredibly honored to be a part of his family’s business. After proudly serving his community, he retired to Arizona in 2018. In 1989, he married the love of his life, Karolynn.

He was so thrilled that he made all the arrangements on his own and excitedly said, “let’s go, we’re getting married!” He was happily welcomed to the family by children, Dawnelle and Craig. Their family became complete with the birth of their daughter, Jennifer. He had a special love for his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughter. He was very proud of all of their accomplishments and was always willing to give a helping hand. Charley was an avid Grizzly football fan, loved to hunt, kayak, fish, ride his Harley, and watch his kids’ sporting events. Charley leaves behind his wife, Karolynn of Bullhead City, Arizona; his beautiful daughters, Jennifer (Adam) Gariepy-Benishek of Florence, and Dawnelle (Arnie) Sorrell of St. Ignatius; his loving son, Craig (Rachel) Norman of Lynnwood, Washington; his furbabies, Patch and Izzy; his grandson, Davin (Hannah); granddaughters, Alyssa, Caitlyn, Eliza, and Lucy; great-granddaughter, Jenny; brother, Fred (Linnea) Gariepy of St. Ignatius; sisters, Ann Gariepy and Laurie Marshall, both of Texas; brother-in-law, John Brookes of California; his many nieces and nephews, numerous Gariepy cousins; his best friends, Martin Ralston, (Oh, did they have the adventures), Stuart Morton, Curt Johnson, and many others. Charley was preceded in

Valley Journal

death by his parents, Pete and Joanne Gariepy; sister, Cheryl Gariepy; and very special friend, Rick Kerr. We will be holding a “Celebration of Life” for Charley in St. Ignatius, in early April. If you’d like to make a donation, please donate to your favorite animal foundation or become an organ donor. - Won’t you fly high “Free Bird.”

Cynthia Barker POLSON — Cynthia Mary Barker, age 72, entered into the presence of the God she served for more than 60 years. She passed away on Feb. 6, 2022, due to a pulmonary embolism. Cynthia was born in Watertown, New York, on Aug. 28, 1949. Her parents moved the family to southern California where she grew up and graduated from Narbonne High School. She continued her education and received her degree as a licensed vocational nurse. She married John Clay Barker Sr. on Sept. 10, 1967. They had three children: Marcie Jean, John Clay Jr. and Rusty Michael and moved to Visalia, California. They later divorced. She was a member of Fellowship Baptist Church. She loved all her friends there and enjoyed teaching people of all ages about the love God has for them. She was also a member of

the Red Hat Ladies. Cynthia was a loving mother and grandmother that took great and loving care of her family, friends and her church. She loved exploring new places with her best friend Shirley and Pastor Wade. She will be greatly missed, but we don’t cry for her - we know she is enjoying heaven; we cry for us. She is survived by her children and 10 grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 27, 2022, at Fellowship Baptist Church. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at: www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

Dianne Schultz POLSON — Dianne K. Schultz age 75, passed away on Friday, Feb. 4, 2022, at Polson Health & Rehab. She was born on April 24, 1946, to Wayne and Beverly WetDiane zel. She Schultz was the older sister to Charlie and Darin. Dianne was raised in

see page 21

Boy Scouts enjoy frosty adventure

KARA SNYDER PHOTO

Obituaries from page 20

Polson and lived by Flathead Lake on Rocky Point. She attended grade school and graduated from Polson High School in 1964. She married Lauren Pearson in June of ’64. On Jan. 29, 1965, their first son, Alan, was born in Montana. On April 4, 1967, a second son, Todd, joined the family, born in Bellevue, Washington. Lauren’s work took the family to Virginia from 1975 to 1977, then moving back to Renton for a year before settling in Sultan, Washington, in 1978. The boys made her life full; from school projects, homework, games, etc., she enjoyed every minute of their upbringing. Most holidays it was just the four of them, but with Dianne’s love of decorating and cooking, the family did not know anything was missing. She knew how to make every detail special. In 1985, Lauren and Dianne divorced and Dianne moved back to Polson. Dianne had been working in the banking industry when the boys were in school so it was easy to be hired by Glacier Bank in Sep-

tember 1985. She worked for Glacier Bank until her retirement in July 2011. Dianne was involved in various community activities associated with the bank including fundraising for local non-profits, holiday floats for parades, collecting items for families at Christmas, etc. Dianne enjoyed being back in Montana and reunited with a classmate, Bill Schultz. They started dating and then married on Valentine’s Day 1987. In this blended family, each child was a planned two years apart; Alan, Todd, Lisa, Jon. During the first years of marriage, this union also brought forth their love of buying, remodeling, and selling several homes. Eventually Dianne and Bill bought back the family home on Rocky Point where they continued to reside. Together Bill and Dianne have 35 years of beautiful memories. From flipping campers before it was a “thing,” 4-wheeling and UTV riding in Montana and Arizona, riding tandem on the trike, exploring new places, camping with friends, hosting 4th of July picnics/ class reunions along with

Boy Scouts of America Troop 1947 went on some Klondike adventures this month. The Troop earned 40 frost points for 17- and 14-degree Fahrenheit nights of camping on Friday, Feb. 11 and Saturday, Feb. 12. They learned how to make snowshoes, perform first aid, orienteering, and more.

other functions at the lake, and wintering in Arizona for the past 11 years. Their lives were busy and filled with lots of laughter, jokes, campfires, family and friends. Dianne was preceded in death by her father and mother, and her brother Charlie. She is survived by her husband and best friend Bill; her brother, Darin; her children, Al (Melissa), Todd (Cristina), Lisa Kinyon (Dan), Jon Schultz (Kelly); and her grandchildren, Josiah, Danielle, Sam, Trevor, and Justin; as well as her fur babies, Tootsie, Tobe, and Teka. A celebration of life memorial will be held in late spring. In lieu of flowers, she would be happy to have you remember to enjoy every moment of your life, give a smile, and contribute a monetary gift or your time to your favorite charity. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family to: www. lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

vj Valley Journal

February 23, 2022 - 21

seniors Dixon By Heather Rush for the Valley Journal

DIXON — 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 takeout meal requests for $5 per serving. The menu is: — Thursday, Feb. 24: beef pot roast, veggies, mashed potatoes, rolls — Monday, Feb. 28: chicken enchiladas, rice, beans, salad, dessert — Thursday, March 3: spaghetti, salad, 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, call 406-246-3310. All ages are always welcome.

St. Ignatius By Irene Pritsak for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — This week I will be posting menus for the following three weeks, as I am going out of town and want to keep you informed of our meals while I am gone. — Friday, Feb. 25: baked fish meal, veggies, rolls, fruit, dump cake

— Tuesday, March 1: sausage, biscuits, gravy, green beans, fruit salad, brownies — Wednesday, March 2: dinner - baked fish, rice pilaf, veggies, fruit, pumpkin bars — Friday, March 4: spaghetti with beef, green salad, garlic bread, fruit, cherry bars — Tuesday, March 8: pork stir fry, rice, bread sticks, fruit, sheet pan s’mores — Friday, March 11: chicken dinner, mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, veggies, fruit, lemon cake — Tuesday, March 15: taco salad with beef, fruit, rice Krispy treats — Wednesday, March 16: dinner corned beef and cabbage, rolls, fruit, chocolate chip cookies — Friday, March 18: delivery - corned beef and cabbage meal, dine in - Reuben sandwich, salad, fruit, dessert There will be bingo played at the center on Saturday, April 12. For pick up lunches, please call by 10 a.m. to order. For pick up dinners, please call by 2 p.m. to order. Prices: senior lunch is $4, under 60 is $5, ages 6-12 is $3.50, under age 6 is $2. Dinner: seniors $4.50, under 60 is $5.50, ages 6-12 is $4, under age 6 is $2 Enjoy the next few weeks.

Polson By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — We serve the senior citizens of the Polson area and beyond. Our organization is committed to serving citizens in their “golden years.” It sure sounds

better than “graying” or “sagging years!” March is named after Mars, protector of Rome; deity of war and in the earlier calendars the first month of the year, but during the Julien calendar the months of January and February were added. I’m thinking of the old adage “in like a lion and out like a lamb” as a folk description of March weather patterns. Whatever the weather, just wait five minutes and it will change. The first day of spring in Montana, is March 20 this year; but if you live in Australia, it’s the first day of fall. Tax assistance by trained personnel is available for free at the Polson Senior Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays and Thursdays through April 14. Call for a reservation to alleviate wait times. Call us at 406-883-4735, email us at: polsonseniorcenter@gmail.com or visit us at 504 Third Ave. E. We are open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays. Lunch is available from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. weekdays for $5. We also deliver to shutins. Individuals and small groups are always welcome to lounge, work puzzles, read, learn card or board games, billiards, etc. Coffee, tea and cookies are available. Our activities are a great way to meet old friends and create new friendships. A small meeting room is available by reservation at no charge. The big hall is available for larger gatherings, with a fee and deposit. Activities: We are having a raffle to win a beautifully crafted, crocheted queen or king bed spread. Tickets are on sale at the Polson Senior Center for $1 each or six

calendar Wednesday, Feb. 23 Free class offered for small business owners, entrepreneurs KALISPELL — “Resizing Images for Print and Web” will be taught on Wednesday, Feb. 22 - February 23, 2022

23, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Flathead Valley Community College. Learn how to print high-quality pieces, optimize images for the web, and about a few technical basics to save time and get the best result. Class is recommended as preparation for WordPress - Easy Website Design. Through a partnership with

FVCC, Mission West Community Development Partners offers the chance to attend these workshops free of charge. We will enroll you in the workshops and pay the fee. To be eligible, you must own or work for a for-profit small business with ten or fewer employees located in Lake, Mineral or Sanders Valley Journal

tickets for $5. — Exercise for mobility: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. — Bridge: Tuesdays and Fridays – postponed - Call the center 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. (earlier or later if you wish). We play 3, 4, or 5 players per table. We also teach. — Bingo: Fridays, 7 p.m. We had 28 players last Friday. Lots of fun, prizes, snacks, and a chance to yell that special word as loud as you can. — Hearing clinic: Every third Thursday of each month - (March 10) from 10 a.m.- noon — Veterans’ rep: The first Friday of each month - (March 4) and third Tuesday of each month -(March 15) from 10 a.m.noon — Pool: Come in with a friend and practice for fun and bragging rights. Open table during business hours. Menu: — Thursday, Feb. 24: chili dog, cheese and onion on the side, corn, green salad, cookie — Friday, Feb. 25: dinner for lunch – baked ham, au gratin potatoes, peas, pretzel salad, birthday cake — Monday, Feb. 28: potato soup, cheesy bread, classy fruit salad, ‘poke’ cake — Tuesday, March 1: lasagna, garlic bread, corn, green salad, dump cake — Wednesday, March 2: chicken Alfredo, with noodles, mixed veggies, cinnamon apples, fruit Jell-O, cookie

see extended calendar at www.valleyjournal.net

County. Entrepreneurs who are planning to start a business are also eligible. If you’d like to enroll, call us at 406-676-5928.

Level I QuickBooks (desktop version) taught ZOOM — Mission West

Community Development offers free workshops to help you learn the skills you need to help your business succeed. QuickBooks Level I (desktop version) will be taught on Feb. 23, from 9 a.m.2:30 p.m. via ZOOM. This is an see page 23

Calendar from page 22

introduction to QuickBooks basic uses and features. To register go to: https://lccdc. ecenterdirect.com/ and click on training events.

Saturday, Feb. 26

and immerse yourself in the atmosphere. The entire walk is 1.5 hours in duration and often covers no more than a quarter mile distance. For more than four decades, Ellen Horowitz has connected people to nature through her work as a naturalist, hiking guide, field instructor, writer and Certified Forest Therapy Guide. Call the visitor center at 406-755-2706, ext. 0, to register, as space is limited. Cost is free ($8 park entry fee still applies for non-resident vehicles).

Light, shadows workshop offered POLSON — Join the North Lake County Public Library for a “Leap into Science – Light and Shadows Workshop” on Saturday, Feb. 26, at 10 a.m. in the large meeting room. There will be story time and a shadow puppet show and hands-on learning stations.

Enjoy a ‘Forest Bathing Session’ with Ellen Horowitz KALISPELL — On Saturday, Feb. 26, from 12:30-2 p.m. experience nature in a new way with a forest bathing walk led by certified forest therapy guide Ellen Horowitz. Forest bathing is a practice of going outdoors and opening all your senses to soak

Sunday, Feb. 27 Learn winter tracking skills during hike KALISPELL — On Sunday, Feb. 27, from 3-5 p.m. join this two-hour hike and learn a bit about the basics of tracking animals in winter. Take a walk through Lone Pine and look for tracks in the snow. Learn to identify different common prints from Northwest Montana forest residents. You’ll also explore what to look for besides footprints to tell you what critters have passed through the forest ahead of you. Call the visitor center at 406-755-2706, ext. 0, to register, as space is limited. Cost is free ($8 park entry fee still applies for non-resident

vehicles). Snowshoes are available for rent at $5 per pair or $10 per group up to 5.

Tuesday, March 1 Quilters to meet RONAN — The regular meeting of the Mission Mountain Quilt Guild will be held on Tuesday, March 1, at the Terrace Lake Community Church in Ronan at 6:30 p.m. A work meeting to finish quilt show ribbons is scheduled from 3-6 p.m. prior to the regular meeting.

Friday, March 4 Learn to talk through conflict ZOOM/KALISPELL — “Conflict Resolution for Better Teams” will be taught on March 4 (Zoom option) at Flathead Valley Community College. Conflict continues to be the largest people-challenge we have. Test your conflict resolution meter – how you and others respond to conflict – and learn techniques to effectively talk through conflict with others on your team. Through

a partnership with FVCC, Mission West Community Development Partners offers the chance to attend these workshops free of charge. We will enroll you in the workshops and pay the fee. To be eligible, you must own or work for a for-profit small business with ten or fewer employees located in Lake, Mineral or Sanders County. Entrepreneurs who are planning to start a business are also eligible. If you’d like to enroll, call us at 406676-5928.

Saturday, March 5 Clinic on ice fishing offered for women LAKE MARY RONAN — The Montana Wildlife Federation Artemis Sportswomen invite interested people to the first annual Montana Women’s Ice Fishing Clinic on Lake Mary Ronan scheduled for Saturday, March 5, from 6 a.m. until dark. This one-day event is meant to nurture new and experienced ice anglers alike, build community and help women feel confident on the ice. Email any and all questions to Morgan Marks at morgan@mtwf.org or call 406-403-4464.

Located in Ronan next toTrue Value & Rootz Salon

d o n’t get

Offer valid 2-23/ 3-1

Flat Folds regularly $7.95 NOW $5 per yd

Limited to stock on hand! Stop on by to see all we have to offer!

406-676-2740

left in the

dark read public notices www.MontanaPublicNotices.com Valley Journal

February 23, 2022 - 23

classifieds Announcements Auctions JOHNCO STORAGE: Public sale MARCH 2, 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 108, 126, AND 195. Units are subject to redemption prior to sale time. 883-5405.

Lost & Found Found on Canal Rd. east of Ronan: car keys. Call 676-2092 to identify.

Wanted WANTED TO BUY Guns and/or ammunition, old or new. Whole estates/collections or single pieces. Fair prices paid. 406-207-4641

Employment Help wanted HYDROLOGIC TECHNICIAN/ HYDROGRAPHER I (MAY BE HIRED ON A CONTRACT) NATURAL RESOURCE DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must have two (2) years of college education or one (1) year of college with physical science background, or a high school diploma or G.E.D and one year of experience in natural resources data collection. Must possess a valid driver’s license and be insurable under the Tribes insurance policy. Also, must wear Tribal Government identification and safety apparel when conducting field activities. Required to complete a certified defensive driving course by the Department. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copy of relevant transcript and/or certificate, a copy of a valid driver’s license and proof of Tribal enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month 24 - February 23, 2022

probationary period. $17.70 to $20.34 (DOE) plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. #1259/1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes. org. Closing date will be Thursday, Mar. 17th, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. Operator – In – Training. Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https:// jobs.montana.edu/- postings/28601. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled MEDICAL ASSISTANT (CERTIFIED) - 1 or more positions - TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must be a graduate of a Certified Medical Assistant program with experience in a clinic setting. Licensed as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) or Registered Medical Assistant (RMA). Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Preferred experience: Knowledge with confidential departments. Experienced with electronic health record applications. Medical terminology and understanding healthcare workflows. Knowledge of McKesson/Dragon software Knowledge of electronic prescribing programs and software. Knowledge of behavioral health software and documentation processes. All applicants must be proficient and have a strong working knowledge of electronic health record systems, clinical software, and Microsoft Office applications. Must pass a pre-hire drug screen and random drug screens while employed. Must pass a background check. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, copy of academic transcript and/or training certificate, a copy of current valid driver’s license, completed supplemental background questionnaire, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test. Salary range is $15.64 to $17.98, plus benefits. May be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040, or personnel@ cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at www.csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday,

March 10, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. (MST). CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

WATER MANAGEMENT & PLANNING PROGRAM MANAGER (MAY BE HIRED ON A CONTRACT) NATURAL RESOURCE DEPARTMENT Master’s of Science with seven (7) years’ relevant professional-level experience OR bachelor’s of Science with a minimum of ten (10) years of relevant professional level experience. Education must be in the field of hydrologic sciences, engineering, or a closely related field with emphasis on surface water hydrology. Education and experience must demonstrate progressive job experience, a body of technical work product completion, quantitative aptitude, and supervisory and management experience. Possession of a valid state driver’s license with the ability to obtain a Montana driver’s license within six (6) months. Must have liability or full coverage insurance on personal vehicle (if used to travel off-site in performance of duties). Also, must wear Tribal government identification and safety apparel when conducting field activities. Required to successfully complete a certified defensive driving course approved by the department. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copy of relevant transcript and/or certificate, a copy of a valid driver’s license and proof of Tribal enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is negotiable (dependent upon experience), plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at 406-675-2700 Ext. #1259/1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, Mar. 24th, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Valley Journal

NATIONAL MONITORING CENTER MONITOR (ONE OR MORE POSITIONS) NATURAL RESOURCE DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma from an accredited high school or a GED. Possession of, or eligibility for, a Montana State driver’s license. Must be able to type at least 30 words per minute and have the ability to read a map and locate states and cities in the Western United States. Experience in surfing the Internet. Training or experience with word processing and spreadsheet software WORD and EXCEL. Must be able to open a WORD file, cut and paste a portion of a WORD document, and save the WORD document. Experience in working and communicating with the public, or in an office working with other personnel where communicating information was important to that position. Must be able to work throughout the entire shift and be able to stay awake and alert for the duration of the shift. Must be able to communicate clearly by enunciating and speaking works in a clear and understandable manner. Must be able to write clearly and legibly. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, copy of relevant transcript and/or certificate, a copy of a valid driver’s license and proof of Tribal enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range is $14.59 to $16.77 per hour, plus benefits. Shift Schedule: Thursday – Sunday (10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.) To apply, contact Personnel at 406-6752700 Ext. #1259/1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, February 24th, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

NATIONAL MONITORING CENTER MONITOR TRAINEE (ONE OR MORE POSITIONS) NATURAL RESOURCE DEPARTMENT The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma from an accredited high school or a GED. Possession of, or eligibility for, a Montana Stated driver’s license. Must be able to type at least 30 words per minute and have the ability to read a map and locate states and cities in the Western United States. Experience in surfing the Internet. Training or experience with word processing and spreadsheet software WORD and EXCEL. Must be able to open a WORD file, cut and paste a portion of a WORD document, and save the WORD document. Experience in working and communicating with the public, or in an office working with other personnel where communicating information was important to that position. Must be able to work throughout the entire shift and be able to stay awake and alert for the duration of the shift. Must be able to communicate clearly by enunciating and speaking works in a clear and understandable manner. Must be able to write clearly and legibly. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, completed supplemental questionnaire for background investigations, copy of relevant transcript and/or certificate, a copy of a valid driver’s license and proof of Tribal enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range is $13.45 to $15.46 per hour, plus benefits. Shift Schedule: Thursday – Sunday (12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) & Thursday – Sunday (10:00 p.m.-8:00 a.m.) To apply, contact Personnel at 406675-2700 Ext. #1259/1040. Tribal applications are also available online at csktribes.org. Closing date will be Thursday, March 3rd, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

classifieds Employment cont. from page 24 K-8 teacher Mountain View Elementary. Send resume to Mountain View Elementary, Box 1169, Cut Bank MT 59427. Email questions to JerryHofer@gmail.com or call (406) 336-2638. RTLN PREVENTION OUTREACH AND OFFICE MANAGER/DATA COORDINATOR (2 POSITIONS) TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT An Associate degree is preferred or a minimum of two (2) years’ experience working with socially and economically disadvantaged youth and families. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. Must be at least 21 years of age. Must pass a background and suitability check according to Public Law 101-630; the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript/ training certificate, completed background supplemental questionnaire, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. Salary is $18.87 to $21.69 per hour, plus benefits, may be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1040, or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at cskt.org. Closing date will be Thursday, March 3, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. (MST). CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. DATA COORDINATOR/ DIRE NEED CASE MANAGER (PART-TIME POSITION - DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT, FINANCE & GRANTS DIVISION

The successful applicant is required to possess a high school diploma or GED. Actual experience case managing local individuals and providing and managing services. The applicant must have some experience in counseling or interviewing as well as general guidance principles. Position must pass suitability and character reference check and finger printing as required by the Indian Child and Family Violence Protection Act-PL 101-630. This position is subject to a background check in accordance with Public Law 101- 630, 25 USC Section 3201 and Public Law 101-647, 42 USC Section 13031. The background check also includes Child Protection service checks and driving record checks. Must possess a Montana State driver’s license and possess liability car insurance. Must have word processing experience and formal computer training within the last year. Must have Excel training within last year. Must have at least 6 months of experience with Tribal service population in client eligibility process (in childcare, LIHEAP, cash assistance, dire need) and client interactions. Must have experience in keeping track of funds, money taken in, balancing daily or weekly, and thereby understanding the importance of fiscal and program accountability. Must have at least oneyear experience in working with the public and with vendors, and businesses. 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 & if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of your DD214. This position is not 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: $19.34 to $22.23 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, March 3rd, 2022 at 5:30 p.m. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE WANTED Hate desk jobs? Enjoy meeting new people and engaging with your community? Join our award-winning staff. Help local businesses bring their message to an engaged readership! Ideal candidate is self-motivated, goal oriented with marketing savvy. Pay is commission-based: 20-25% DOE. Mileage, cell phone allowance and shared healthcare membership paid monthly. Reliable, insured transportation, cell phone, basic computer skills including sending and receiving of attachments via email required. Serious inquiries only. Send letter of interest and resume with three references to summer@valleyjournal.net. Fencing and/or farm work available, Central Montana. Need fence built, fixed. Farm work includes cleaning, maintenance, cattle. Tobacco-free. Meadowgrass1000@gmail.com, Box 2, Lewistown MT 59457. Graphic Designer, MSU Extension, Full time. Exciting position planning, designing and managing fun projects, working with a great staff! Full benefits. To apply, visit msuextension.org, click on “Careers.” Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.

CLINIC NURSE (LEVEL I OR LEVEL II) TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT (1 or more positions) The successful applicant must possess for Level I—Associates degree in nursing from an accredited program with six months experience as a registered nurse in a comparable area of specialty. Prefer experience with electronic health record applications. For Level II—Bachelor’s degree in nursing from an accredited program with six months experience as a registered nurse in a comparable area of specialty. Prefer experience with electronic health record applications. Preferred experience: Knowledge with confidential departments. \ Experienced with electronic health record applications. \ Medical terminology and understanding healthcare workflows. Knowledge of electronic prescribing programs and software. Knowledge of behavioral health software and documentation processes. All applicants must be proficient and have a strong working knowledge of electronic health record systems, clinical software, and Microsoft Office applications. Must possess a current Montana State R. N. license. Basic Life Support Certification. Existing or new National Provider Number. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, copy of academic transcript and/or training certificate, a copy of current valid driver’s license, completed supplemental background questionnaire, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is a see page 26

Work Control Dispatcher **Recent Wage Increase** Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs. montana.- edu/postings/26096 Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.

Service Directory FOR ALL YOUR ACCOUNTING NEEDS

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

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

ADVERTISE HERE! as low as $25 per week (4-week commitment)

Call 676-8989 for details

YOUR MESSAGE

SDAP:

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

406-249-1728 TO LEARN MORE Valley Journal

February 23, 2022 - 25

classifieds Employment cont. from page 25 Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test. Salary range is $29.21 to $33.58, plus benefits, may be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at www.csktribes.org. The closing date will be Thursday, March 10, 2022 @ 5:30 p.m. (MST). CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Vehicles Miscellaneous 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 retail. If your car or truck in 1997 or older, at this price you can afford to have a spare. Call Jerry at 406-207-4641.

Public Notices Legals Legals IN THE TRIBAL COURT OF THE CONFEDERATED SALISH AND KOOTENAI TRIBES OF THE FLATHEAD RESERVATION JULIE CAJUNE, Plaintiff, vs. SPENCER SIAS, Defendant.

CAUSE NO. 21-0288-CV SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION THE CONFEDERATED SALISH AND KOOTENAI TRIBES SENDS GREETINGS TO THE ABOVENAMED DEFENDANT: You are hereby summoned to answer or otherwise respond to the above-captioned Petition filed in Tribal Court. You have 15 days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and Tribal holidays) from the last date of publication of this Summons in which to file your written answer with the Tribal Court. If you fail to answer or defend within the time provided under law, a default judgment may be entered against you. Plaintiff/Plaintiff Attorney: Julie Cajune Address: 24601 Finley Lake Rd. Arlee, MT 59821 This Summons By Publication is issued pursuant to Title 1, Chapter 2, Part 7, Rule 9(3), of the CS&KT Laws Codified. Dated this 8th day of February, 2022. By: Malia Hamel Deputy Clerk of Court

February 23 and March 2, 2022 MNAXLP INVITATION TO BID PROJECT: Ronan High School HVAC Replacement Project No.: RONANSD_HSME OWNER: Ronan School District #30 421 Andrew St. NW Ronan, MT 59864 ENGINEER: C T A , I n c . d b a Cushing Terrell 306 Railroad St, Suite 104 Missoula, MT 59802 Phone: (406) 728-9522 Sealed Bids will be received, at School District No. 30, District Administration Office, 421 Andrew St. NW, Ronan, MT 59864, by Friday, March 11, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. Local Time. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Bids should be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “High School HVAC Replacement.” All interested parties are invited to attend. Bids will be opened publicly and read aloud immediately after specified closing for: The Ronan High School HVAC Replacement Project which consists of the replacement of the majority of the HVAC systems for the high school,

upgrading the electrical service to the high school, adding a boiler to and re-piping the boiler plant, and replacing a rooftop unit and steam reheat coils in the northeast portion of the middle school. All Bids must be on a lump sum basis; segregated Bids will not be accepted. A site walk-thru at the school will be held Wednesday, March 2, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. Local Time at the Ronan High School Front Entry. All Bidders are encouraged to attend. Bids shall be submitted on the form provided with the Project Manual. Drawings and Project Manual may be examined at any of the Montana Builders Exchanges. Drawings and Project Manual may be printed upon request and upon payment at current printing rates of the establishment, and will be available starting Tuesday, February 22, 2022. The responsibility for obtaining enough information for Bidding purposes from the complete Contract Documents shall remain with the party requesting Documents. Addenda and Prior Approvals will be distributed through the Builders’ Exchange.

Bid Security in the amount of ten percent (10%) of the Bid must accompany each Bid in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. The Contractor shall comply with all fair labor practices and shall meet the requirements of the State of Montana Prevailing Wage rates and Gross Receipts Tax. A Bid Bond for ten percent (10%) of the bid, and a Performance Bond for one hundred percent (100%) of the bid will be required. No Bidder may withdraw their Bid for at least thirty (30) days after the scheduled time for receipt of Bids except as noted in the Instruction to Bidders. The Project will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to waive irregularities, to evaluate the bids submitted and to accept the proposal which best serves the interest of the school district. Feb. 3 & Mar. 2, 2022 MNAXLP

Classified ads work! Call us today. 406-676-8989

This week's puzzle answers: Classified ads work! Crypto-Quote Solution Call us today.

THERE ARE MANY WAYS OF 406-676-8989 GOING FORWARD, BUT ONLY ONE WAY OF STANDING STILL. - FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT

26 - February 23, 2022

Valley Journal

public notices barred as creditors of the decedent.

John A. Mercer Turnage Mercer & Wall, PLLP Attorneys at Law 312 1st St E Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367 jmercer@turnagemercerwall.com

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.

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

/s/ Douglas Rex McAlear Douglas Rex McAlear

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: HAZEL A. McALEAR, Deceased.

Personal Representative Estate of HAZEL A. McALEAR, Deceased.

Cause No.: DP-22-3 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

February 9, 16 and 23, 2022 MNAXLP

cont’d from pg. 26

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

2022 ELECTION RESOLUTION BE IT RESOLVED, the Board of Trustees for the Ronan/Pablo Elementary School District No. 30 and the Ronan High School District No. 30, shall call for the election of two (2) trustees from District 30-2 to serve for a three (3) year term. The voting shall be by mail ballot election, with the election date of May 3, 2022. If the number of candidates filing for a position or filing a declaration of intent to be a write-in

candidate under MCA 13-10-211 is equal to the number of positions to be elected, the trustees may give notice that an election will not be held. (MCA 20-3-313).

Deputy Clerk of Court Feb. 23, Mar. 2, 9 & 16, 2022 MNAXLP Montana 20th Judicial District Court, Lake County

February 23 & March 3, 2022 MNAXLP Montana 20th Judicial District Court, Lake County

In the matter of the Name Change of Rebekah Begay; Rebekah Begay, Petitioner.

In the matter of the Name Change of Ronald James Schroeder; Ronald James Schroeder, Petitioner.

Cause No: DV-22-16 Dept. No. 2001 Judge James Manley

Cause No: DV-22-18 Dept. No. 2001 Judge James A. Manley

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Ronald James Schroeder to Ronald James Bishop. The hearing will be on April 6, 2022, at 10:00 am. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Lake County. Dated: January 27, 2022. James A. Manley District Court

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Rebekah Hope Begay to Rebekah Hope Squeque. The hearing will be on March 23, 2022, at 10:00 am. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Lake County. Dated: January 17, 2022. Lyn Fricker Clerk of District Court By Mary Rensvold Deputy Clerk of Court Feb. 2, 9, 16 and 23, 2022 MNAXLP

By Mary Rensvold

LEGAL NOTICE SCHNIEDERS ETAL FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT PERMIT APPLICATION Jacob Feistner, with Plan4approval, on behalf of James Schnieders ETAL, has applied for a floodplain development permit for the placement of 35 cubic yards of riprap and 1,800 cubic feet of washed rock within the 100-year floodplain of Flathead Lake. The project includes the placement of riprap along a +/-160-foot span of shoreline. The riprap will consist of rocks between 2-5 feet in diameter. The subject property is approx. 1.16 acres and is legally described as lot A on the Amended Plat of lots 2-4 of block 2, of the Amended Plat of Johns Lake Shore Tracts, located within section 09 of T25N, R20W.

Information regarding the proposal is available from the Lake County Planning Dept. All written and verbal comments are welcome and will be considered. The deadline to submit comments is March 10, 2022. Comments may be mailed to: Lake County Planning Dept., 106 Fourth Ave East, Polson, MT 59860, or faxed: 406883-7205, or e-mailed: planning@ lakemt.gov. February 23, 2022 MNAXLP

Legal Notices are welcome. Deadline is Friday at noon. 406-676-8989

Property Assessment Visits Property valuation staff may visit your property during the upcoming tax year to conduct an on-site review for property tax purposes. Please notify your local DOR field office in writing within 30 days of this publication if you wish to be present. For an appointment or further information, contact your local DOR field office. For locations and contact information, visit MTRevenue.gov or call (406) 444-6900.

STATEWIDE ADVERTISING

Montana’s statewide advertising network REACH 400,000+ readers each week

60 Newspapers 1 low cost

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

FOR ALL YOUR ACCOUNTING NEEDS

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

REACH

THE 2 X 2 ad measures 3.7” horizontal by 2” vertical

406 FOR

406

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

43 N E W S PA P E R

A S S O C I AT I O N

PARTICIPATING NEWSPAPERS

Legals

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

250,000 IMPRESSIONS FOR $1,499 CALL: 406.443.2850 DETAILS: mtnewspapers.com

Valley Journal

February 23, 2022 - 27

Farm & Ranch 2022 is coming soon ...

Don’t miss out on a great local special section. Contact us for all your advertising needs.

406-676-8989 Boone Goddard (406) 249-1728, boone@valleyjournal.net • Summer Goddard (406) 249-1793, summer@valleyjournal.net 28 - February 23, 2022

Valley Journal

new 02-23-22

Articles inside

Valley Views

Obituaries

Courts

Sports