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your homegrown newspaper March 11, 2026

Vol. 22, No. 27

Ronan wins 2026 Academic Bowl by Joyce Lobeck for the Valley Journal

50 years in business pg. 6

Conservation awards pg. 8

MT Tech pg. 16

RONAN — A team of middle schoolers from Ronan made their school proud, bringing home the traveling trophy for this winter’s annual Lake County Academic Bowl. The Ronan team of sixth, seventh and eighth graders came out with the most points in the annual competition between Polson, Charlo, Ronan and Mission middle schools that tests the students’ academic knowledge in math, science, English, logic and social studies. The competition started with a mixer on Dec. 10, with rounds in January and February rotating among the four schools. The final round was held March 4 at the Ronan Performing Arts Center. The Ronan team finished with 2,141 points while Charlo had 1,895 points, Mission 1,758 points and Polson 1,454 points. “It’s fun to see the kids compete,” said Bill Becker, Ronan middle school

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL PHOTO

Members of Ronan's Academic Bowl team wait to see if the answer they've given to a question is correct.

math teacher and coach for the Ronan team. “It’s nice to have this kind of thing. Unlike sports, not much attention is given to academic achievement. Some of the same kids have both, but it’s nice for other kids to get to compete academically against other schools.” The first measure of the team’s knowledge is a written test, he explained. “It’s very fast and furious. You see the kids at the table asking another one if they know

the answer to a question. It’s impossible for a kid to complete by their self. It teaches teamwork.” The second part is how a team reacts to oral competition against another team under a timed, pressured environment. The team that obtains the most combined points during both sessions will win the meet and be declared the county champion. The Ronan team included eighth graders Harper Hardy, Amelia w w w.va l le yj our na l.net

Connally, Penelope Jackson, Rebekkah High, Wren Harvorkah and Dustyn Bowen; seventh graders Shelly Torgernrud, Landon Henricksen and Madison Wayman; and sixth graders Tobias Becker, Bella Ness and Kinlee Marengo. It was the fifth time over the years that the Ronan team took home the honors, having also won in 2019-20, 2020-21, 2022-23 and 2023-24. Charlo was the champion for several

years from 2014-15 to 2018-19. Polson won in 2021-22 and Mission took home the trophy last year. Becker said several students will come to practice sessions and the top 10 in a test selected to be on the team. Last year, 20 initially came to practice, “so there is some competition for the team,” he noted. Even though this year’s season is over, several see page 2

Academic Bowl from page 1

sixth graders are already coming into his classroom to start training for next year under the guidance of an eighth grader. “The kids are already preparing for next year,” Becker said. “It’s nice they want to be a part of it.” He said the students “pretty much generate their own study questions.” They use what questions they can remember were asked during the last season – no notes are allowed during the actual rounds. The students also turn to AI to come up with other questions. The rules for the Lake County Academic Bowl concluded: “The competitions are meant to be fun and to help reinforce the importance of academic achievement. Winning isn’t nearly as important as learning, practicing sportsmanship and developing leadership skills.” 2026 competitors included: Charlo: eighth graders Addison Hougue, Brystol Bauer and JoHanna Long; seventh graders Kaid Sinclair, Coen Cahoon, Brandt Stipe, Apollonia Hall, Aubree Blevins and Ashley Alder; and sixth graders Madilyn DuMont and Madison Madden Mission: eighth graders Carter Hawkaluk, Grant Jensen, Maya 2 - March 11, 2026

Ronan’s winning team poses for a photo with this year’s trophy.

Nance, Isabelle McCready and Eliana Wood; seventh graders Boston Evans, Easton Leishman and Noah Robine; and sixth graders Atticus Holets and Maude Pavlock Ferencz Polson: eighth graders Owen Godfrey, Silas Saloka, Frank Schmidt, Piper Williamson, Angell Whiteman and Kiara Brooks-Allan; seventh graders Dae Brooks Allan, Sydnee Davis, Ari Kamarainen, Joshua Karstens, Lucas Lambert, Declen McClain, Silas Milliron, Lolo Owen, Maia Ross, Pennelope Spencer and Liam Venters

COURTESY PHOTO

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL PHOTO

During a round in which they competed against the Ronan team, St. Ignatius team members discuss the answer to a trivia question.

Valley Journal

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Call / Text: 406-370-6500

101 MounTain view dr. / Po Box 705 • sainT ignaTius, MonTana 59865 | MissionvalleyProPerTies.coM • 406-745-4940

This Week’s Weather Forecast Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

March 11

March 12

March 13

March 14

March 15

March 16

March 17

41°/37°

43°/35°

44°/35°

41°/28°

41°/34°

49/40°

52°/41°

Rain 69% chance precipitation

Rain/Snow 91% chance precipitation

PM Rain/Snow Showers 53% chance precipitation

Rain/Snow Showers 59% chance precipitation

Snow to Rain 40% chance precipitation

Rain/Snow 39% chance precipitation

Rain

59% chance precipitation

Flathead Lake Level 2887.58 ft WED

3/11

7:58 am

7:35 pm

THUR

3/12

7:57 am

FRI

3/13

SAT

(5.42 ft below full pool)

4:05 am

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7:36 pm

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12:24 pm

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3/14

7:52 am

7:39 pm

6:10 am

2:41 pm

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3/15

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7:41 pm

6:36 am

3:56 pm

Precipitation 0.01 inches

MON

3/16

7:48 am

7:42 pm

6:56 am

5:13 pm

Record High 65° F

TUES

3/17

7:46 am

7:44 pm

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Valley Journal

1:30 pm

Today in History February 11, 2025 High 44° F Low 33° F

Record Low -18° F

March 11, 2026 - 3

contents St. Patrick’s parade.......5 Seniors........................14 Election candidates.......9 Puzzles .......................17 Valley Views ................10 Calendar......................18 Obituaries....................13 Classifieds...................20 SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL PHOTO

final light breaks through on a cloudy evening

Find us online at www.valleyjournal.net for more photos, videos, breaking news and special sections!

Summer Goddard

Kathi Beeks

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

Office Manager, Copy Editor (406) 676-8989 news@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 - March11, 2026

2026 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 2026, 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.

Wishing everyone a

Happy & Safe St. Patrick’s Day ! FILE PHOTO

A participant in last year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade waves as he walks down Main Street, Ronan.

‘Go Green or Go Home’: Ronan prepares for annual St. Patrick’s Day parade News from Dana Grant

RONAN — Everyone can use a little luck and St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect chance to welcome spring and find that elusive pot of gold under the rainbow. Along with good luck, this fun day, honoring Ireland’s patron saint also conjures up visions of shamrocks, leprechauns, and corned beef. Whether one is Irish or not, St. Patrick’s Day is a time for community connections and that is the idea behind the annual Ronan St. Patrick’s Day Parade, now celebrating 37 years. This year’s event, scheduled to start at 5:30 p.m.

on March 17th will have floats, horses, automobiles, and a few special surprises. Bringing the music will be perennial favorites, The Great Scots Pipes and Drums. Parade entry is free and open to all. No float registration is required. The organizing committee will be monitoring for any entries with profanity, racism, or other inappropriate messaging. Entries with offensive images, graphics, or signage will not be allowed in the parade. This is a family event and community celebration, grounded in laughter, storytelling, and friendship. Over the years, it has become a

tradition to wear attire reflecting the spirit of the day. Green, green, and more green is on the agenda. In fact, the 2026 Parade Theme is “Go Green or Go Home!” Everyone is encouraged to join the festivities and welcome the arrival of spring. Entries can start lining up at 4:45 p.m. behind St. Luke Hospital. Prizes will be given after the parade at the official Irish headquarters, the Pheasant Lounge. Prize categories include Most Irish, Best Irish Animal, Pub Wars, Biggest Shamrocks, Green Team, and Best Overall. Hosted by T.R.I.C., The Ronan Irish Committee. Valley Journal

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March 11, 2026 - 5

Home Floor Covering celebrates 50 years in business by Joyce Lobeck for the Valley Journal

POLSON — Home Floor Covering has achieved quite a milestone – 50 years in business under local ownership by the same family, now the second generation. The business celebrated that achievement with a 50th anniversary party last weekend. And the entire community was invited to come help celebrate, enjoying food, games, giveaways and raffles for such prizes as free pizza for the summer and a stone bathroom vanity. “It was a way to thank the community for its support for the last 50 years,” said company spokesman Brook Harding. “It was also a way to introduce people to the new location.” The business that got its start on Main Street is now located at 40324 Enterprise Drive south of Polson just off Highway 93. It’s in a building that owner Gary Green had developed in 2022 as a new home for Home Floor Covering and his other business, Polson Stone and Tile, under the same roof. Together they offer a large inventory of home design products and an emphasis on service from the moment a customer walks in the door until the final installation. It all began in 1976 when Mike Durant purchased a flooring store and 6 - March 11, 2026

New storefront for the design center that houses Home Floor Covering and Polson Stone and Tile.

Polson Stone’s slab yard displays a variety of stone options.

COURTESY PHOTOS

The Green family, from left, are Gary Green; son Garett, who works at Polson Stone and Tile; wife Amelia, a realtor; and daughter Brooklynn, who works for Home Floor Covering. Both businesses are owned by Gary Green.

building on Main Street from the Perkins family and developed the business into Home Floor Covering. In the early 1980s, Mike married Janice, Gary’s mother. Together the

couple grew the business and in the mid-1980s purchased the building next door at 322 Main Street as the new home for Home Floor Covering. While in high school, Gary was a flooring in-

staller for his parents’ business, heading to the job after school. Then in 2007, he went out on his own and started Polson Stone and Tile, a stone fabricating business. In 2011, he began operating Home Floor Covering on a day-to-day basis and a year later purchased the business from his parents so they could retire. Three years ago, he moved both businesses into the

Valley Journal

new building. Home Floor Covering completely took over the flooring side of the design center, offering hardwood, laminate, carpet, vinyl and tile flooring options as well as window treatments and veneer masonry. Polson Stone and Tile specializes in fabricating countertops, slab showers, fireplace hearths and other products, using both natural and manufactured

COURTESY PHOTO

stones such as granite and quartz. Services at the design center range from design consultations, assisting customers in selecting from thousands of samples in the showroom, then installing the chosen product or products. Two sister companies located in one design center, with a shared phone number and customer ser-

see page 7

Home Floor Covering from page 6

vice. They can be reached at 406-883-2247. In addition to owning these two businesses, Gary is majority owner in Polson Auto Parts, the only locally owned auto parts store in Polson, and Green Team Fire Services, which fights wildfires for the Tribes. He also owns Stageline Pizza in Ronan. Brook describes his employer as “very understanding, and good at putting himself in other’s shoes. He has a great reputation in the community as a soft-hearted person. He is jovial and good at making friends. I have only known him two years, but in that time, we have become fast friends.”

DNRC launches survey to shape future of recreation on state lands News from DNRC

HELENA — The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) is launching a new public survey to gather input from Montanans about what matters most to them when they recreate on state trust lands. The survey will help DNRC understand public priorities and identify whether there is interest or need to update Montana’s existing recreational use rules for state trust lands. DNRC will then advise the Board of Land Commissioners on any potential rule updates. “DNRC is taking a fresh look at its recreation rules for state trust lands and wants public input to see if the rules are still relevant and working well for today’s needs,” said Jessica Hoag, DNRC recreational use and public access coordinator. This initial survey does not begin a

formal rulemaking process. Instead, it is designed to help DNRC define the scope of any potential future rule revisions, gauge overall interest in changes, and identify the topics, such as motorized use, camping limits, commercial or concentrated recreation, and processes for closures and restrictions, that are most important to Montanans. If a formal rulemaking process were conducted, the Land Board would have the authority to determine and approve the rules. State trust lands help fund Montana’s public schools and other institutions, and are also important places for hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, and other recreation. DNRC wants to hear from a wide range of people, including recreationists, nearby landowners, leaseholders, local governments, teachers, students, and anyone else who spends time on or benefits from these lands. The survey asks simple questions about whether and how people use

state trust lands, how familiar they are with the current rules, whether they think changes may be needed, and what should stay the same. There is also space for people to share their own ideas or concerns in their own words. “DNRC encourages Montanans to take a few minutes to complete the survey and to share the link with friends, family and community members. The more people who participate, the better DNRC can understand what is working, what is not, and how future recreation rules can better reflect the needs and expectations of Montanans,” said Hoag. The survey is available online at: Recreational Use of Montana State Trust Lands - March 2026 Survey. Submissions will be accepted through March 31, 2026. For more information about current recreation rules on state trust lands, visit the Administrative Rules of Montana page on recreational use of state trust land.

EARLY DETECTION CAN SAVE LIVES March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., but when caught early it’s highly treatable. Talk with your doctor to see what screening options might be right for you!

OUR Y K S A IF R O T DOC E! U D E YOU’R Valley Journal

The Heart of Healthcare in the Mission Valley

March 11, 2026 - 7

CSKT staff honored with statewide conservation awards News from CSKT Natural Resources

FLATHEAD RESERVATION — The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) are proud to announce that four Natural Resources staff members have received prestigious statewide recognition for their decades of leadership in fisheries and wildlife conservation. Les Evarts, Barry Hansen, and Cindy Benson were honored with the Montana Chapter of the American Fisheries Society Career Achievement Award, and Art Soukkala received the Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society Distinguished Service Award. Career Achievement in Fisheries Conservation Les Evarts began his career with CSKT in 1989 and served 26 years as Fisheries Program Manager. Over more than three decades, he led major aquatic restoration efforts, advanced bull trout recovery, and managed multimillion-dollar conservation projects with fiscal integrity and vision. His most enduring legacy is the restoration of the Jocko River, screening irrigation diversions, establishing instream flows, reconstructing channel form and function, and securing Tribal ownership of critical riparian lands. Today, the Jocko River stands as one of the healthiest rivers flowing through an agricultural landscape in Montana. Barry Hansen has dedicated nearly 40 years to aquatic resource conservation, including more than 35 years with CSKT. His work spans instream flow protection, forestry and riparian restoration, 8 - March 11, 2026

COURTESY PHOTO

CSKT Natural Resources staff receiving statewide awards for their leadership are Cindy Benson and Barry Hanson (not pictured: Les Evarts) and (right photo) Kari Kingery, Art Soukkala and Whisper Camel-Means.

shoreline management, and innovative habitat design on Flathead Lake. Barry played a key leadership role in the Flathead Lake and River co-management planning process and helped guide long-term efforts to restore balance between introduced Lake Trout and native fish populations. His perseverance and commitment to science-based management have left a lasting mark on the Flathead Basin. Cindy Benson joined the Tribal Fisheries Program later in her career and quickly

became central to its success. Beginning as a creel clerk on Flathead Lake, she later directed the Mack Days fishing contests beginning in 2002. Under her leadership, the program grew to hundreds of participants and resulted in nearly one million Lake Trout removed from Flathead Lake in support of native fish conservation. Cindy also managed the Native Fish Keepers, Inc. processing facility, maintaining strict production and food safety standards while serving as a public ambassador for fisheries conservation across Valley Journal

the region. Distinguished Service in Wildlife Conservation Art Soukkala is being recognized for more than 45 years of dedication to habitat restoration and wildlife management. Since joining the CSKT Wildlife Management Program in 1991, Art has helped reintroduce peregrine falcons and northern leopard frogs, addressed carnivore conservation and hydropower mitigation, and led acquisition and restoration of thousands of acres of prairie, shrubland, woodland, and wetland hab-

itats. His innovative wetland restoration work and collaborative approach have strengthened habitat connectivity and biodiversity across the Flathead Reservation. Together, these four professionals represent more than a century of combined service to the lands, waters, wildlife, and people of the Flathead Reservation. Their recognition reflects not only individual excellence, but also the Tribes’ enduring commitment to science-based stewardship and conservation grounded in Tribal values.

CSKT issues statement of concern regarding ICE operations By Joyce Lobeck for the Valley journal

As with other Native American tribes across the United States, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) are concerned their members could be detained by federal immigration officials. There have been reports of Native Americans in other states who were mistaken as Latino being stopped or even held by ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement), noting the irony that they were the first people of this land. For example, last year Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren said that several tribal citizens reported being stopped and detained by ICE officers in Arizona and New Mexico, The Associated Press reported. “Our leadership has heard concerns expressed in the community about potential ICE activity,” Robert McDonald, CSKT communications director, said in response to questions from the Valley Journal. He shared a statement from the CSKT Tribal Council regarding ICE. CSKT Tribal Council: Council is aware of ICE’s actions and wanted to assure our community that our legal and law enforcement leaders are monitoring their activity so our community can receive the best protections. On February 14, 2026, former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, wrote a “Dear Tribal Leaders” letter acknowledging the tribal concerns directed to the department related to recognition of tribal identification cards and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. In the letter, Secretary Noem responded to tribal concerns by noting and pledging multiple things: • that to date there have not been any ICE operations in tribal lands; • that ICE endeavors to respect tribal authority and partner with tribal law enforcement agencies should there be illegal aliens on tribal lands; and, • that ICE agents recognize tribal identification cards and continue to acknowledge tribal IDs as proper and accepted identification to verify citisee page 12

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Lake County election candidates listed LAKE COUNTY — On March 5 the following individuals successfully filed for open government positions in Lake County by closing time at 5 p.m.:

Party

REP

COUNTY

Name of Candidate

William “Bill” Barron

Office Sought

Commissioner District 1

REP NP

Rebecca Maso Rick Schoening

Treasurer/Assessor Justice of the Peace

REP

James Lapotka

Attorney

REP REP

Don Bell

Sheriff/Coroner

REP

Kendra Steele

Commissioner District 1 Clerk & Recorder/Auditor/Public Administrator/Surveyor

REP

Carolyn Hall

Superintendent of Schools

Max Krantz

Lake County Conservation District

Allen Branine

Lake County Conservation District

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Jesse E. Hernandez William Mitalski

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POLSON FAMILY EYECARE March 11, 2026 - 9

First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

valley views Things we can agree on - part 2 L

ast week focused How profound. on the myriad We can agree to love things we – as humans – vacation. Camping in can agree on. What start- the woods. Glamping ed as a short in a fancy list morphed treehouse. into something Cruising Jill Pertler more extensive, the MediSyndicated columnist so much so that terranean. it encompassed A week at two columns. the beach. Seeking thrills Turns out agreeing at a theme park. Fishing isn’t as hard as we tend to on a lake. Climbing a make it out to be. Who mountain. Waiting for would’ve thunk it? But Old Faithful to gush. I’ll cut to the chase. And Kayaking through a get us started with: gorge. A weekend stayWe can agree to love cation. Experiencing the laughter and a good joke. excitement of Broadway Some of us may prefer and the Statue of Liberty. dirty humor, others silly Driving across country stuff. But laughter is a and stopping at odd placuniversal uniter and a es that sound interesting. universal healer. It feels Eating your way across good to laugh - not at Italy. There just may be the expense of others, but an infinite number ways with others. And laughter, to vacation - and while when shared, proves to some might not be your be the universal language. first choice, none of them Even babies understand is wrong, and you don’t this. They learn to laugh question, or judge, anothbefore learning words. er for choosing a different

Slices of Life

letters

War is distraction from domestic problems

Editor, Iran is not a nation friendly to 10 - March 11, 2026

vacation location from yours. We can agree to love sports. Football, soccer, swimming, badminton, volleyball, pickleball, baseball, basketball, golf or even curling (during Olympic years) – we can all find our own jam. And it doesn’t matter if my next-door neighbor prefers pickleball over golf, we can all still get along – as long as both of us agree to stay out of the kitchen. We can agree to love music. It is another universal uniter – unless you are a country fan and I like hard rock. But, seriously, music has something for everyone: from classical to heavy metal, from Broadway to opera, from nursery rhymes to jazz, from traditional hymns to gospel songs. Music, like laughter, speaks a universal language. It can evoke emo-

the U.S., but we must acknowledge that this administration’s war is largely an attempt to hijack the global narrative and drown out the many failures of our current administration.

tions. It can trigger memories. It can ignite love. It can distract us from the day’s troubles. We may not agree on the type of music we prefer, but we do agree that is okay. You do your country. I’ll do my folk rock and we can agree to disagree. No hard feelings either way. We can agree to love babies of all kinds: puppies, kittens, goats, hedgehogs, squirrels, piglets, hippos, elephants and humans. Babies are intrinsically cute. Well, except baby snakes. I’m not sure about baby snakes. Or eels. Or blob fish (don’t ask.) You might disagree with me on any or all of that, and that’s okay. Just don’t hate me for it. (You see how silly that sounds in this context?) We can agree that life is often hard, but this world is a beautiful place and people, in general, are not only seeking, but

This is a cold-blooded war of distraction….from the president’s plummeting in the polls; from the Epstein files; from general corruption (including pardons of criminals who really Valley Journal

trying to demonstrate that beauty themselves. We can agree that most people are doing the very best they can with the circumstances and resources they have. We can agree that each person sees the world through his or her own and unique perspective. Sometimes, these perspectives might clash with ours, but that doesn’t make them unworthy or null and void. Just as our own perspective isn’t unworthy or null and void. We are all worthy. We all get to have a perspective. We all get to form our own opinions about dogs and cats and ice cream and sports and everything in-between. (Even – dare I say? – politics.) Just don’t hate me for saying that last part out loud. Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t

should not be among us); from the coming economic chaos related to tariffs and overspending; from the decay of important see page 11

miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

LETTER POLICY

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

Who pays the increases? S

ince the 2025 session convened, the Montana Freedom Caucus and other conservatives have been planning to expose HB231 and SB542, which are supposed to take effect in 2026. The Montana Chamber of Commerce knew it would impact property tax shifts to businesses, and that’s why they lobbied so hard against it. Legislators were adamant to pass something, despite the ramifications. Now we see some calculations of the estimated impacts. Phillips 66 Company had an increase for the tax year 2025 of $11,301,544, with an estimate for 2026 at $14,429,22, an increase of 21.6%. CHS Inc. had an increase for tax year 2025 of $10,024,563, with 2026 estimated at $12,107,432, an

increase of 17.2%. Exxon Mobil Corp. had an increase for the tax year 2025 of $3,314,234, with 2026 estimated at $4,097,311, an increase of 19%. Stillwater Mining Company Senator Bob Phalen, had an Senate District 17 increase of

Legislative Notes

letters from page 9

institutions due to lack of funding; from significant depletion of Medicare and Social Security funds; from the widespread use of ICE as a quasi-military force answerable only to the president; from the planned building of enormous ICE Detention Centers across the country). Recent revelations from the Epstein files seem only to have been the final trigger.

$2,253,737 in 2025, with 2026 estimated at $2,394,172, a 6% increase. There are 37 top industrial properties in Montana that saw increases in their 2025 and 2026 property tax forecasts. Northwest Energy had an increase of $16,000,000 on top of what they already pay, $168,000,000. Who pays these increases? In case you are still “in the dark, Llew,” I will tell you it’s the Northwest Energy customers who received the generous $400

There is a multipronged assault on democracy in this country, and, as we protest this war, we should not look up from these issues. We should write/call our representatives; let the press know we expect continued coverage of these important domestic issues, as well as the role of distraction in this war; and work to form community coalitions to resist this nonsense. Gail Trenfield St. Ignatius

tax refund on their homes. How long will that generous $400 last for those customers? The reason the taxes were shifted from homeowners to industrial properties (every homeowner in Montana had a cut in their property taxes, plus they got up to $400 in a refund from the state) was that there are more homeowners who vote than there are industrial property voters. They are trying to buy a win in the primary elections! They continue to double down, saying that it is not a shift. Because we are calling them out, we are now “lurking in the dark,” as Llew Jones says. And he is now shooting out the window to scare us away, but it’s not working. We will continue to expose him. Look at what he is doing to the people of Montana who have a second home!

Midterms are coming Editor, Donald Trump, the president who promised us “No forever wars” has now begun something that looks, uh, kind of big, to some of us. And this not long after his Venezuelan venture. Is this a new, younger Donny? Or is it a Trump who is simply trying desperately to distract us from any thought of the Epstein files and possible crimes with young women/girls? The

Lake County marriages and divorces for February Marriages Adam Charles Hymer and Marissa Kate Root Dennis Bradley Talbott Jr. and Tamie Laree Curran Russell Don Tallmadge and Kathryn Lee Kelly Ranney Louis Dupuis and Jackylyn Abuan Rosadel Lena Mae Paul and Timothy Richardson Aiden Kylie Joy Koberg and Benjamin David Stewart Francesca Catherine Elia and Colton John Holcomb Maddox Richard Rodeback and Sidra Kay Perry Mikaylan-Penny Roylance and Brady Fryberger Divorces Christopher M. Saiki and Laura L. Saiki (Nemelka restored) Jason L. Bales and Mary K. Bales Matthew L. Mock and Naomi L. Mock Scott L. Lambeth and Abby Lambeth Terry W. Nunnery II and Haley R. Nunnery (Atwood restored) Eric M. Schallock and Christa N. Schallock Larry R. Johnson and Sharon D. McLaughlin Leonard F. Prescott and Yixin Zhang Johnnie L. Dillard and Samara R. Dillard (Christopher-Lampman restored)

American people deserve the truth, which this administration, the Kings and Queens of redaction,

Valley Journal

seem maniacally driven to cover up. War? Truth? Distraction? Midterms coming. Don’t forget,

Montanans, don’t forget. Eugene Beckes St. Ignatius

March 11, 2026 - 11

CSKT ICE concerns from page 9

zenship status - although the department encouraged native people to have a driver’s license, passport, or state identification cards. The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes join other tribal nations in expressing deep concern for any police action that might target or compromise tribal members, even if they are swept up in ICE police action inadvertently. Further, CSKT encourages tribal members to know their rights and recommends that tribal members have an emergency plan in place should you or one of your family members be detained by ICE (www. cskt.org/ice). Contact your local law enforcement or emergency services if you see any illegal activity. Our tribal law enforcement has an existing relationship with homeland security ICE law enforcement as well as other federal partners and will continue to work and protect the people of our homeland. Finally, Council will engage with federal officials to see that measures are in place to prevent unnecessary conflict and any inappropriate affront to a tribal citizen’s rights to freely pass both inside and outside the United States boundaries. Council recognizes that ICE’s execution of its mission is dynamic, and the Tribes will continue to monitor ICE’s action so that we are in the best position to support our members and tribal people in general.

12 - March 11, 2026

‘Water Keepers’ documentary to be shown at various local venues By Joyce Lobeck for the Valley Journal

“The Water Keepers,” a documentary film that chronicles the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ groundbreaking water-measurement program, will be shown at Ninepipes Lodge on March 18. The 6 p.m. showing is part of the Conservation Speaker Series held at the lodge, sponsored by the Lake County Conservation District. Admission is free. Plans are also underway for a viewing in Polson on March 26.

Admission will be $5. Watch for more details. Earlier, the film was shown March 6 in Pablo at the Arlee/Charlo Theater. The 21-minute film debuted Feb. 22 at the Wilma Theatre in downtown Missoula as one of eight finalists in the Big Sky Award Competition. The debut was “wonderful,” said Robert McDonald, CSKT communications director. “We received a very warm and enthusiastic response.” That the film was selected as a finalist “is an honor unto itself,” Mc-

Donald said. “‘The ‘Water Keepers’ was honored to be named as a potential award winner.” He explained that those recipients often get a graphic of a laurel, which “The Water Keepers” received. “When you see big films that get selected for Sundance or Cannes film festivals, you often see all their laurels on the trailer introduction screen.” Over four decades, tribal scientists installed and maintained a comprehensive network of stream gages across the Flathead Reservation, replacing theoretical

COURTESY PHOTO

CSKT Communications Director Robert McDonald fields questions about “The Water Keepers,” which debuted at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival. Casey Ryan stands to his left. Both McDonald and Ryan were the film’s co-producers.

Valley Journal

projections with measurable data, McDonald said. “That scientific record ultimately laid the groundwork for the CSKT Water Compact – a landmark water rights settlement approved by the Montana Legislature, ratified by Congress and signed into law in 2020,” he said. “While the compact became one of the most scrutinized measures in Montana legislative history, the film reveals how its success rested on decades of disciplined measurement demonstrating how wa-

ter truly moves through the landscape.” The film was directed by Daniel Glick, whose previous work includes “In the Spirit of Atatice: The Untold Story of the National Bison Range.” Producers included tribal members Robert McDonald and Casey Ryan. “The Water Keepers” features the voices of CSKT leaders, technicians and scientists who helped build and sustain the water-measurement program over four decades and whose work shaped the future of water management in the region.

COURTESY PHOTO

Documentary co-producer Casey Ryan fields questions from the audience at the Big Sky Film Festival held recently in Missoula. Director Daniel Glick stands on stage as well.

obituaries Charles ‘Ray’ Wall POLSON — Charles “Ray” Wall, age 85, passed away at home from Alzheimer’s complications on March 3, 2026. Ray was born on May 17, 1940, Charles to Frank Wall and Elsie Courville Wall in St. Ignatius. Ray married his wife Julie Clairmont in 1961. They were married 64 years when Ray passed away. Ray worked at Plum Creek and Dupuis Lumber Mills for a time and then went onto ranching for a number of years until late retirement. Friends and family would come near and far for the branding at Buffalo Bridge. Ray is preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Bob, Louis, Tom, Ron, Jerry and sisters, Pat and Maggie. Ray is survived by his wife, Julie; daughters, Raylene Wall and Marcia Wall; sons, John Wall and Tracy Wall; five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. He was a proud member of the CSKT. There will be no services at this time and cremation has taken place. Messages of condolence may be shared with the family online at:

www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.

Esther Bick POLSON — Esther Salomon Bick, a truly remarkable woman, went peacefully to her heavenly home on Friday, Feb. 27, at St Joseph’s Hospital, with her family by her side. Mom was born to Thomas and Gertrude Salomon on Nov 21, 1935, Esther at the Bick home of the midwife in Polson and raised on the family farm west of Pablo. She attended school in Pablo and Ronan graduating with the class of 1954. She was active in 4-H, loved the outdoors, and built up her own herd of cows. She later worked at Peschels Cafe and then the local gro-

cery store. After a skating party, Mom was picked up right off the ice by her future husband, Arthur Bick, and he kept her. They were married on Dec. 10, 1955, and began raising their family and farming on their own acreage. Even breaking her leg couldn’t slow Mom down, she had a handle put on her cast and continued to farm, garden, cook and chase after four youngsters. In 1965 they purchased the Quality Market grocery store and moved their family to St. Ignatius. They were excellent businesspeople, moving the store and expanding it several times. Mom stayed involved in her community, active with Jayceens, Chamber of Commerce and serving as a City Council Woman, along with being a Cub Scout den mother. Friendly and outgoing, if you met mom, you loved her and she and Dad gathered often with friends and family for visiting, traveling, games, parties, or dancing. After selling the gro-

Community Thank You We appreciated the caring thoughtfulness of the community. We are blessed to have the support of so many friends and neighbors. - The Phil Grant Family

cery store in 1978, and with all her kids graduated, Mom fulfilled her lifelong dream and attended college. She drove to Missoula each day and graduated near her 45th birthday as an LPN. Her new career led to employment at the Polson Rest Home, St. Ignatius Hospital, Ronan Hospital, and then as a Home Healthcare Nurse. She loved nursing and still made time for Foothills Club, and Leon Ladies Aid. A piece of paradise with a small acreage at the base of the Mission Mountains called and

Mom and Dad built a new house atop Post Creek Hill. Dad passed there in 2010, but Mom kept the farm and garden going. She gained a new dancing partner with her special friend, Ron Newton, and they spent 10 years together. After a brief stay in Ronan, Mom moved to St. Joseph’s Assisted Living in 2021 where she was profoundly happy and continued to be a social butterfly, finding old friends and creating many new ones. Thankfully, her entire family and many friends gathered for her 90th birthday in November.

Esther was preceded in death by her parents, Tom and Gertrude; an infant son, Glen; husband, Art; special friend, Ron; and brothers, Ted and Ralph Salomon. She is survived by her children, Candee (Terry) Krantz, of Helena; Linda (Roger) McLinden, of E. Helena; Gary (Annette) Bick of Spokane; Nancy Kirbie of South Bend, Indiana; sister, Delores ( Jim) Rogers of Charlo; and brother, Ray (Darlene) of Polson; and also her grandchildren: Becky ( Jesse) Dupre of see page 14

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March 11, 2026 - 13

obituaries from page 13

Missoula; Em Krantz of Portland, Oregon; Kara (Brandon) Marceau of Belgrade, Washington; Kris (Monica) McLinden of Hamilton; Scott (Michelle) McLinden of Frenchtown; Dan McLinden of Butte; Sara (Tristan) Weeks of Liberty Lake, Washington; Steven (Christina) Bick of Otis Orchards, Washington; Danielle (Michael) Powell of Spokane, Washington; Laura Kneeshaw, of Spokane, Washington; Kyle (Ann Marie) Kneeshaw of Spokane, Washington; Kate (Brian) Dubinski of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Kelsey ( Jared) Plaia of Granger, Indiana; Michael Kirbie of Bloomington, Indiana; and great-grandchildren: Andrew and Katie McLinden, Matylda and Myles McLinden, Ava and Nora Dupre, Greyson Marceau, Benjamin Dubinski, Calvin and Jameson Weeks, and Noellle and Jordan Powell. Services have been held. 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.

Ronald Coulter POLSON — Ronald Duane Coulter, 81, of Polson, Montana, passed away on Feb. 27, 2026. Ron was born on May 25, 1944, to Cliff and Vera Coulter. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from Aug. 1963 to July 1967. 14 - March 11, 2026

His time in the service was a meaningful chapter in his life and one he carried with pride. In June of 1968, he married the love of his life, Judy Mills. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and devotion. Ronald Coulter Ron worked for Polson Ready Mix for 31 years, retiring in 2006. He was known for his strong work ethic and dedication throughout his career. An avid outdoorsman, Ron loved to hunt and fish. Some of his happiest times were spent outdoors, enjoying Montana’s beauty and sharing those experiences with family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Judy Coulter; his son, Jim Coulter and wife Emily; his daughter, Jade Atkinson; his brother, Rae Coulter; his sister, Carol Nerison; and his cherished grandchildren, Chance, Cody, Mitchell, Sydney, Cash, and Erin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Cliff and Vera Coulter. Ron will be remembered for his steady strength, his deep love for his family, and the quiet dedication with which he lived his life. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him. Services will be held later this summer, with details to be announced. Messages of condolence may be shared with the family online at: www. lakefuneralhomeandcremation. com. Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home.

seniors Polson By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON — Check out our St. Patrick’s Day menu. Wear your favorite costume. We have a position open for part time cook’s helper. Job applications are available at the senior center from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. weekdays. Limited rides are available for seniors with 24 hr. notice ($8 round trip). We only have one driver. Priority is given to health appointments. We try to be dependable but cannot guarantee short notice rides and times, plan ahead Get help with your taxes from the AARP Tax Assistance Program on Mondays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. through April 15. You must register for an appointment and fill out an information packet. There is no charge. Donations to the Polson Senior Center are welcome. Support AARP. Activities: — Kiwanis Club of Polson: third Thursday of each month through June at noon. All are welcome. — Bingo: regular bingo every Friday at 6 p.m.; Card Bingo the first and third Wednesdays in April at 6 p.m. — Pinochle: Thursdays 12:30 p.m. (pass 4) - Mondays 12:30 p.m. (no pass) — Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. — Toenail clinic in March. Sign up to reserve a time - $30 fee — Spinning Wheelers: second and fourth Tuesdays of Valley Journal

each month – 11 a.m.-1 p.m. 208-520-1013 — VSO (Veterans Service Officer): first Friday and third Tuesday of each month – 10 a.m. -noon. Walk-ins OK. — Bowling fun-league: Tuesdays at 1 p.m. at the Sportspage Bowl — Exercise class (sitting, standing, low impact and video assisted) M-W-F 10:30-11:30 p.m. no fees Menu (subject to substitutions): lunch $5 donation served from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday-Friday - Milk is available with all meals. — Wednesday, March 11: meatloaf, baked potato, green beans, green salad, pineapple cake — Thursday, March 12: chicken strips, tater tots, corn, pasta salad, apricots, chocolate pudding — Friday, March 13: Ceasar salad, roll, stir-fry veggies, apple sauce, cherry cheesecake — Monday, March 16: beef barley soup, apple salad, roll, cookies — Tuesday, March 17: traditional Irish corned Beef, cabbage with the traditional fixings — Wednesday, March 18: chicken enchilada, spicy beans, coleslaw, mixed fruit, lemon dessert — Thursday, March 19: turkey pot pie, biscuit, spinach salad, baked apple, chocolate chip bars — Friday, March 20: first day of spring: hamburger, fries, baked beans, potato salad, pears, lemon pudding Our Polson Senior Citizens COMMUNITY Center provides space for individuals and

groups to meet for physical and mental health, social and educational purposes. Our center is available for reserved special events on weekends and evenings. We are open 8 a.m.–3 p.m. on weekdays, or later by appointment. Contact us at 406-883-4735; 504 3rd Ave.E; email: polsonseniorcenter@gmail.com; visit us on Facebook!

St. Ignatius By Theresa Yares for the Valley Journal

ST. IGNATIUS — Choose a variety of vegetables, which come in a variety of colors. You can find them fresh, frozen, canned, dried or in 100% vegetable juice. Vegetables provide potassium, fiber, folate, Vitamins A and C. Potassium helps control blood pressure. Fiber supports digestion and heart health. Folate (Vit B9) helps form red blood cells, helps tissues grow and cells work. Vitamin A is important for vision, and a healthy immune system. Vitamin C aids in wound healing, skin health and iron absorption. Canned or frozen are just as good as fresh. Try to choose options with little or no added salt. Rinsing canned vegetables under cold water can reduce a significant amount of sodium. (From myplate.gov) Activities: — FSaturday, March 14: Bingo at 2 p.m. — Friday, March 27: AARP Smart Driving Course: from 1-5 p.m. here at the St. Ignasee page 15

Seniors from page 15

tius Senior Center. Call 406745-4462 to sign up or come into the center and sign up. Menu: — Friday, March 13: sloppy Joes, French fries, pineapple, vanilla pudding — Tuesday, March 17: corn beef, cabbage, potatoes, soda bread, apricots, green Jell-o with whipped cream, shamrock cookies — Wednesday, March 18: Indian tacos with trimmings, fresh fruit salad, huckleberry cream puffs — Friday, March 20: fish, mac-n-cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, pears, wheat bread, brownies Milk is available at all meals. Everyone is welcome at our meals (young and old). Come enjoy a delicious meal and good conversation. If you would like a takeout meal, call 406-745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays and by 2 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of each month. Mealtimes are at noon on Tuesdays and Fridays and at 5:30 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the center. Our St. Ignatius Senior Center is available for rent. If interested, call 406745-4462 or stop by. If you have questions about obtaining Elder Commodities, call or stop by for information and an application. Gentle Yoga is held on Wednesdays from 1 to 2:15 p.m. If you are interested, call Bonnie Kiser at 406-2530177. Her rate is five sessions for $65.

Finalized service line plans due News from the Dept. of Commerce

HELENA — The Montana Department of Commerce announced recently that postcards will be sent next week from its Lead Service Line Inventory Technical Assistance Program to Montana public water systems to prompt the finalization of their updated service line inventories and replacement plans, which are due by November 2027. The postcards will be sent to approximately 100 Montana public water systems that appear to have a high number of remaining service lines to be identified for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead Service Line Inventory requirements under the Lead and Copper Rule. The rule requires that all public water systems create an inventory of their systems to identify any lead or contaminant lines, plan for the replacement of those lines and replace those lines. The postcards will not be mailed to individual homeowners; only to public water systems. “We urge Montana’s public water systems to stay on schedule and get their inventory and replacement plans completed and submitted as soon as possible,” said Commerce Director Marta Bertoglio. The first deadline for inventory submission to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality was Oct. 16, 2024. Some systems that failed to submit an inventory may face enforcement actions by the EPA. The State of Montana does not have influence over any enforcement action under the EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule, but systems may use Commerce’s LSL Technical Assistance Program to finish their inventories and possibly have enforcement actions lifted by the EPA. Many systems were able to submit inventories with service lines listed as “unknown” for that initial Oct. 16, 2024, deadline; however, they must have them identified and submit an updated invensee page 16

Governor, Forest Service Chief announce shared MT forest management landscapes Executes 20-year commitment to healthier forests News from the office of Governor Gianforte

HELENA — Governor Greg Gianforte and The Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation (DNRC) today in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service announced the selection of two priority landscapes in Montana for forest management project implementation under Montana’s Shared Stewardship Agreement. In June 2025, Gov. Gianforte and Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz formalized a first-of-itskind, 20-year agreement between the state and forest service for coordinated, cross-boundary forest management to reduce wildfire risk, improve forest health and support Montana’s wood products industry. During a press conference held at the Montana State Capitol today, the governor and chief announced the first two landscapes in northwest Montana. “It wasn’t that long ago under the Biden administration that we were fighting tooth and nail with the forest service to simply help make our forests healthy

Valley Journal

again,” Gov. Gianforte said. “This is exactly what we envisioned when we signed this landmark Shared Stewardship Agreement – partners working across boundaries to better protect communities, support timber jobs, and restore healthy forests. Without the support from Secretary Rollins and Chief Schultz, this historic progress would have never been possible.” The first two landscapes selected include approximately 213,910 acres across the Flathead and Kootenai National Forests and 200,000 acres within the Bitterroot National Forest. These areas were selected based on wildfire risk to nearby communities and infrastructure, opportunities for coordinated planning, and readiness for implementation. “This is shared stewardship in action – starting with local knowledge of the landscape,” said Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz. “When we plan treatments together – fuels reduction, timber sales, and forest restoration – we create stronger community defenses, more resilient power corridors and infrastructure, and safer conditions for people and property.” “These landscape selections give us a shared foundation for

coordinated, long-term work,” DNRC Director Amanda Kaster further explained. “By aligning state, federal and local partners early, we can deliver meaningful, on the ground results that Montanans expect.” Using the 2025 Shared Stewardship Agreement and Good Neighbor Authority, the Flathead National Forest and DNRC are partnering to complete the Blacktail Powerline Project, the first initiative under Montana’s Shared Stewardship Agreement. The project will reduce wildfire risk, protect critical infrastructure and improve forest health along the Blacktail powerline corridor. “The Blacktail Mountain area is a high priority for fuels reduction,” said DNRC Director Kaster. “This project addresses significant wildfire risk near communities while protecting vital power infrastructure that serves the Flathead Valley.” The Shared Stewardship agreement is additive to both agencies’ robust portfolio of active forest management projects. In 2025, DNRC’s supported the Forest Service in timber sales and forest restoration projects covering more than 40,000 acres through the Good Neighbor Authority. March 11, 2026 - 15

Finalized from page 15

identified and submit an updated inventory by November 2027. Identification of these service lines is something that can be done through utilizing the LSL TA Program, which is limited to funding activities through a procured list of statewide providers. It cannot fund activities through providers that are not contracted with the program. The funding for Commerce’s LSL TA Program was created by the Federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2022, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provides funding to eliminate lead in drinking water system service lines in towns, cities and water districts throughout Montana.

16 - March 11, 2026

Hands-on activities allow students to gain first-hand experience MT Tech to offer experiences in medical, trades, and technology careers at Highlands College Exploration Day News from Megan Strickland, MT Tech Marketing and Communications Specialist

BUTTE — Highlands College of Montana Tech will host Highlands College Exploration Day for high school seniors on April 8, 2026. Highlands College Exploration Day offers students hands-on experiences in their chosen field. The Construction Technology-Carpentry Program will showcase a variety of carpentry projects, while tours of the Machining Lab will demonstrate precision manufacturing on CNC machines and lathes, tours of the Radiologic Technology Lab will demonstrate simulation activities, and the line workers will practice knot-tying and explore the bucket trucks, which are part of the Pre-Apprentice Line Program. “Highlands Exploration Day is designed for students preparing to begin one of our trades and technology programs at Highlands College,” Director of Admissions Kelly Hors-

COURTESY PHOTO

ley said. “The event offers an opportunity to explore campus through guided tours, complimentary brunch, and participate in handson, interactive sessions designed to introduce students to their future programs.” “This event is designed to help students connect with the High-

lands College community,” Highlands College Dean Tammy Burke said. “They will explore our programs, connect with faculty, and find their way around campus. We are excited to show students the road to their future.” Students can tailor their day by choosing from a variety of immer-

Valley Journal

sive breakout sessions, including: - Automotive Technology, A.A.S. - Computer Networks and Cybersecurity, A.A.S. - Construction Technology - Carpentry, A.A.S. - Pre-Apprentice Line Program, Certificate

- Precision Machining Technology, A.A.S. - Radiologic Technology, A.A.S. - Welding Technology, A.A.S. To register for Highlands College Exploration Day, go to: https://iam.mtech.edu/ highlandscollegeexplorationday2026/inquiryform.

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Take photos? Meet new people? Get published! Join our team! Pay per piece, Flexible hours, OTJ training Call Summer: 406-249-1793 Valley Journal

March 11, 2026 - 17

dock of the bay

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL PHOTO

Sun shines on a dock pointing out into Polson Bay, a harbinger of warmer days ahead.

calendar Wednesday, March 11 Join Climate Conversation potluck POLSON — This month’s Climate Conversation will take place at the Flathead Lakers Oice, 110 Main Street, Suite B (west side of the Salish Building). We will explore native trout and climate change with special guest Craig Barfoot, fisheries biologist with CSKT. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., potluck at 6 p.m., conversation at 6:30 p.m. Join the Climate Conversation potluck, held on the second Wednesday 18 - March 11, 2026

of each month. This warm and welcoming evening brings together food, connection and focused conversation about climate issues. It’s not a meeting or a lecture; just a chance to exchange ideas and learn about topics that matter to our community. Please bring a dish to share.

Thursday, March 12 Prepare for spring lawn maintenance POLSON — The Polson Library will host

Patrick Mangan from MSU Extension Flathead Reservation Office on Thursday, March 12, at 4 p.m. Mangan will present a spring lawn maintenance class. No signup is required.

Connect during library’s ‘Teen Hour’ POLSON — The Polson Library will host “Teen Hour” in the teen corner of the library at 4 p.m. This time is just for teens to share ideas, play games, eat snacks and hang out.

Join Toddler Time POLSON — On Thursdays at 10 a.m. Toddler Time takes place at the Polson Library. This program is for 2–3-yearolds & it is all about movement. This week’s theme is “transportation.”

Bingo played for non-profit POLSON — Glacier Brewing Co. will host bingo from 6-8 p.m. for the Polson Kiwanis Club on Thursdays during the month of March. Cards are $1 each or 6 for $5.

Valley Journal

Must be 18 to win.

Friday, March 13 Pachyderms to meet POLSON — Our next Pachyderm meeting will be on Friday, March 13, at noon at the Polson Rural Fire Station located, 25 Regatta Rd. Our guest speaker will be author Charles Garner. Garner recently published two books and will speak about how they relate to today’s environment. The books will be available for purchase at the meeting for those interested and

sharing with your fellow Christians.

Board Game Day held at library POLSON — Board Game Day held the Polson Library at 4 p.m. This event is for all ages and meets on the second Friday of each month. This is a free program open to all generations.

PHS Theater Club presents ‘Deadline’ POLSON — At 7 p.m. Friday, March 13 see page 19

Calendar from page 18

and Saturday, March 14, Polson High School’s Theater Club will present a murder mystery comedy entitled, “Deadline” in the PHS auditorium. The cost is $7 for students and $10 for adults.

Saturday, March 14 Saturday is Story Time POLSON — Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. at the Polson Library Story Time focuses on 3-5 year olds. We read stories & have activities for kindergarten readiness.

Secure a seat at Ninepipes Museum’s book talk CHARLO — Call the Ninepipes Museum, 406644-3435, to reserve a seat for a book talk with Chris La Tray. La Tay is a Metis storyteller and citizen of

the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians who lives in Frenchtown. He was Montana Poet Laureate for 2023-2025 and has written three books, including, “A Landless Indian’s Journey Home.”

Tuesday, March 17 Donate books POLSON — The Polson Library welcomes you to bring material donations from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. to the carts in front of the Makerspace area in the library.

‘Go Green or Go Home’ theme of St. Patrick’s Day parade RONAN — The 35th annual Ronan St. Patrick’s Day parade will be held Tuesday, March 17 at 5:30 p.m. on Main Street in Ronan. The theme for this year’s parade is “Go Green or Go Home.” Entries line up behind the hospital at

4:45 p.m. Prizes will be given at the Irish headquarters after the parade The Pheasant Lounge.

Enjoy adult coloring POLSON — Join the Polson Library’s adult coloring program: Lucky & Whimsy, where playful designs and creative fun bring a splash of luck and joy to your week. No registration is required. Supplies provided or bring your own.

Teen book club to meet POLSON — “Enchanted Pages,” is a book club for teens interested in reading fantasy, romance and fiction with a strong female main character that takes place at the Polson Library at 4 p.m. This month’s book is “Throne

of Glass” by Sarah J. Maas. No signup necessary. Stop at front desk to put a hold on the book.

Wednesday, March 18 Network at the Job Fair POLSON — The 2026 Lake County Spring Job Fair will take place on Wednesday, March 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Red Lion Inn & Suites, Ballroom, 209 Ridgewater Drive. This event is open to th4 public and there is no fee for job seekers. Employer registration is required to participate. Booth registration is $40. Space is limited so register early. To register, complete the online form at: https:/bit.ly/4qDpG5y.

PARTICIPATING NEWSPAPERS

A S S O C I AT I O N

The Polson City Commission meets every first and third Monday of the month (Wednesday, if the Monday falls on a holiday) at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 106 1st Street East. Meetings are open to the public. St. Ignatius City Council meets the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 12 First Ave. 406- 745-3791 Ronan City Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m., 207 Main Street SW, Ste A. 406-676-4231 Lake County Commissioners, 106 Fourth Ave. E, room 211, (Lake County Courthouse) 406-883-7278, Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-12 p.m. & 1:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. The Lake County Conservation District, 64352 US HWY 93, Ronan, meets monthly on the second Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. Meetings are open to the public and agendas may be found at LakeCountyConservationDistrict.org. The Ronan School District No. 30 Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled board meetings once a month. They meet the second Monday of every month in the K. William Harvey Elementary Multi-Purpose Room. Regular meetings begin at 7 p.m. The Polson School District No. 23 Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled board meetings once a month. Meetings are held the second Monday of each month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the District Office, 111 4th Ave. E, 406-883-6345.

43 N E W S PA P E R

public meetings

The Charlo School District 7J B Board of Trustees have regularly scheduled meetings on the third Thursday of every month. Meetings are held in the school library, 404 1st Ave. W, and begin at 7 p.m. The phone number is 406-6442206.

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The Arlee School District No. 8 Board of Trustees hold regularly scheduled meetings on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are held in the Arlee High School Library, 72220 Fyant Street, and begin at 6:30 p.m. The phone number is 406-726-3216.

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Valley View Elementary is located at 42448 Valley View Road. The phone number is 406-8832208. St. Ignatius School District No. 28 Board of Trustees meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the library, 76 Third Avenue. The phone number is 406-745-3811.

CALL: 406.443.2850 DETAILS: mtnewspapers.com Valley Journal

March 11, 2026 - 19

The photos at left highlight the tale of two snowpacks. On the right is the Revais Creek Snow Course (4,830 ft.) northwest of Missoula, and like much of the state, there is minimal snow. The photo on the left is the Carrot Basin SNOTEL (9,200 ft.) north of West Yellowstone; a reminder that there is still snow to be found up high. Despite a few high elevation holdouts, Montana sits farther below a normal snowpack than at this time last month. If warm and dry conditions persist, even the higher elevations will start to struggle to hold on. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIC LARSON, NRCS, FEB. 19, 2026 AND QUENTIN MEANS, CONFEDERATED SALISH AND KOOTENAI TRIBES, FEB. 23, 2026

NRCS releases MT monthly water supply outlook report News from NRCS

MONTANA — The March 2026 water supply outlook report is now available. Learn more about snow water equivalent measurements and water supply forecasting in this month’s news release based on Montana snow survey data collected through the SNOTEL system. As of March 1, most Montana basins are now reporting below normal snowpack, ranging from around 60% to 95% of median. “The current snowpack percentages compare the amount of snow water equivalent in the mountains to the median amount typically seen on March 1. During March and April, these values generally remain more stable than people might expect. For example, during a low snow year 20 - March 11, 2026

like the one Montana is currently experiencing, snowpack often sits around 70-80% of median. In contrast, a high snow year might reach 120-130%,” explains Florence Miller, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Hydrologist. “Percentiles provide a different perspective by telling us how conditions rank compared to all others on record. Think of lining up all winters from lowest to highest snowpack, this year’s conditions largely range from the 5th to 30th percentiles, meaning our current snowpack ranks in the bottom 5% to 30% of all seasons.” There are some notable exceptions. The Upper Clark Fork currently ranks at the 45th percentile, the 50th percentile would be considered a normal winter. The

Tongue River basin is currently in the 0th percentile, setting the record for lowest snowpack documented on March 1. A stark elevational contrast persists in this year’s snowpack. Higher elevation SNOTEL sites are reporting closer to normal values, and lower elevation SNOTELs and snow courses are reporting record breaking lows. Of the 232 SNOTEL and Snow Course snow monitoring stations measured on March 1 with at least 30 years of data, 24 experienced their lowest snowpack on record, 26 their second lowest, and an additional 28 were in the lowest five years on record. February brought well below normal precipitation (35% to 80% of median) to SNOTEL sites in northwest and central Montana, as well as the

Powder and Tongue river basins. Southwest and south-central Montana received near to slightly below normal monthly precipitation (90% to 100% of median). Wateryear-to-date precipitation remains at 100% to 135% of median, thanks to the record-breaking precipitation delivered by December’s atmospheric river. The full influence of this early season moisture remains to be seen. While December precipitation likely helped recharge groundwater sources and stock high elevation snowpacks, warm temperatures and the lack of valley snow coverage may reduce those benefits. This year has brought above normal temperatures to every month of the snowpack accumulation season. Drought conditions worsened in February, with 95% of the

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state now experiencing drought conditions. This is a drastic increase from the December 30 drought conditions, where only 52% of the state was experiencing drought conditions, and is an example of the diminishing influence of December precipitation. NRCS Water Supply Forecasts are published March through June. March 1 forecasts provide an initial look at what snowmelt driven runoff might look like this year. Water supply volumes for April-July and April-September are forecasted at near to below normal across the state. “The March 1 forecasts are reflective of high water-year-to-date precipitation and high elevation snowpack,” explains Miller. “Given the inherent uncertainty

of early spring forecasts, and the lack of valley snow, it could be prudent for water users to make conservative management decisions that take into account the full suite of forecast predictions, especially on the lower end.” Uncertainty in this month’s forecast is derived from the uncertainty of future spring weather. Seasonal snowpack typically peaks in early to late April. How close middle and high elevation snowpacks come to reaching their normal peak will largely determine snowmelt driven runoff. Although snowpack deficits are unlikely to make a full recovery, ample spring precipitation could moderate the effect on summer streamflow. Likewise, a continuation of warm and dry conditions could further diminish forecasts.

classifieds Employment Help wanted Extension Agent – Agriculture, Natural Resources and Horticulture in Richland County, Sidney, MT. Full time. Exciting job with lots of autonomy! Will develop, implement and evaluate Extension programming in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Horticulture. Complete information and to apply: www.montana.edu/ extension/careers. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/ Disabled K-8 teacher, 2026-2027 school year. Mountain View Elementary. Starting bonus, competitive salary. Call 406336-2638 or email jerryhofer73@gmail.com. DETENTION OFFICER TRIBAL LAW & ORDER The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma or a GED. Must be 18 years of age. No felony convictions ever. No misdemeanor convictions in the past year except minor traffic. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. Must meet minimum department medical standards. Must never have had a misdemeanor conviction involving child abuse, a sex offense, and assault with a weapon or violent crime against a person or domestic abuse. Must not have any record of habitual use of alcohol within the past five years. Must not have any record or history of drug abuse within the past five years. Must not be the subject of a current investigation involving criminal activities including indictments. Must not have three or more moving traffic violations within the past two years. Must not have a driving under the influence of drug and/or alcohol or reckless driving conviction within the past three years. Must not have been dismissed or resigned from law enforcement work due to threat of disciplinary action that could result in termination

of employment during the past three years. Salary range $22.89 per hour, plus benefits. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, if applicable, please submit proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, copies of relevant transcripts and/or certificates and valid driver’s license to the Tribal Personnel Department, 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or visit the cskt. org/personnel website for the application. Closing date will be Monday, March 16, 2026 @ 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. REPORTER/ PHOTOGRAPHER CHAR-KOOSTA The successful applicant must demonstrated ability in writing, grammar, editing, factual accuracy, and a thorough knowledge of journalism skills including but not limited to AP style writing, interview skills, and ability to develop own story ideas, phone skills and excellent communication skills along with an understanding of the objectivity required and essential journalism ethics. At least three years of college with either demonstrable college training in journalism or the equivalent from hands-on work experience. Applicants must show skills through a portfolio or writing/editing/ photography clippings or photocopies. Must have experience in using a digital camera or a 35 mm single-lens reflex (SLR) camera to achieve professional compositions and exposures. A skills test will be administered to applicants to determine journalism aptitude. Required to provide a valid driver’s license. Must have broad range of knowledge about the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ government, culture, history, issues and current events. Salary range $20.96 to $27.22

per hour, plus benefits. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, copies of relevant transcripts and/or certificates and Tribal enrollment verification if enrolled in a federally recognized other than CSKT to the Tribal Personnel Department, 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or visit the cskt. org/personnel website for the application. Closing date will be Monday, March 23, 2026 @ 5:30 p.m. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug Test. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER DHRD DEPARTMENT HEAD DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT PABLO Successful applicant must possess Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Sociology, Business, Public Administration, or Education. Ten (10) years of successful diverse management experience. Ten (10) years of CSKT Management experience required. Five (5) years of relevant experience in Child Welfare or related Social Services. Seven (7) years in policy development and administration. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript/training certificates and licensure, copy of valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming

veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. ]Must pass a background and suitability check according to Public Law 101-630, the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act. Salary is $54.33 $62.45, 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/personnel. Closing date will be Monday, March 16, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. CERTIFIED CODER APPRENTICE TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT Stationed at either Mission or Arlee The successful applicant must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Certification from an accredited Professional Coding Institution (AHIMA or AAPC); CPC-A at a minimum. Six (6) months’ clinical or medical office experience. Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, certifications,

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copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary $16.75 - $19.25 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/personnel. The closing date will be Monday, March 16, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER TRIBAL LAW & ORDER The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma or GED. Must be 18 years of age. No felony convictions ever. No misdemeanor convictions in the past year except minor traffic. Must possess a valid Montana driver’s license. Must meet minimum department medical

standards. Must never have had a misdemeanor conviction involving child abuse, a sex offense, and assault with a weapon or violent crime against a person or domestic abuse. Must not have any record of habitual use of alcohol within the past 5 years. Must not have any record or history of drug abuse within the past five years. Must not be a subject of a current investigation involving criminal activities, including indictments. Must not have three or more moving violations, in the past 2 years. Must not have a driving while intoxicated or reckless driving conviction within the past 3 years. Must not have been dismissed, or resigned from law enforcement work due to threat of disciplinary action that could result in termination of employment, during the past 3 years. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal application, if applicable, please submit proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, copies of relevant transcripts and/ or certificates and a copy of a valid driver’s license to the Tribal Personnel Department or call 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or visit the cskt.org/personnel website for the application. Salary $22.89 per hour, plus benefits. Closing date will be Monday, March 16, 2026 @ 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire see page 22

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classifieds Help wanted cont’d from pg. 21 drug test. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. COMMUNITY HEALTH REPRESENTATIVE (St. Ignatius) TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT Successful applicant must have a minimum of 2-years’ experience working in the health care setting OR proof of a Certified Nursing Assistant course completion with a minimum of 1-year work as a nursing assistant. A valid and unrestricted driver’s license. Heartsaver CPR or BLS within six months of hire. Experience with an electronic health record preferred. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript/ training certificates and licensure, copy of valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug

testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $17.03 - $19.57 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/personnel. Closing date will be Monday, March 16, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. IMMUNIZATION COORDINATOR/EMPLOYEE HEALTH NURSE (Split Mission/Polson) TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT Successful applicant must have an Associate’s degree in Nursing from an accredited school of nursing. Current and unrestricted license as a Registered Nurse in the State of Montana. Minimum of three years of nursing experience, preferably in public health, immunization, or employee health. Current BLS certification. Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript/training certificates and licensure, copy of valid

driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. 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 negotiable DOE, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. #1040, or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at cskt.org/personnel. Closing date will be Mon., Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. RESTORATION PROJECT MANAGER - (2 POSITIONS AVAILABLE) - DIVISION OF ENGINEERING & WATER RESOURCES (DEWR) NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT DEWR COMPLEX – RONAN, MT The Restoration Project Manager is a professional, full-time position responsible for the development, oversight, and execution of ecological restoration and mitigation projects administered by the Natural Resources Department’s (NRD) Division of Engineering and Water Resources (DEWR)

on the Flathead Reservation. This position manages all phases of restoration project delivery, including planning, design, permitting, construction, and post-implementation monitoring. The Restoration Project Manager ensures that all projects are delivered in compliance with the Montana Water Rights Protection Act and applicable Tribal, Federal, and State environmental laws, cultural protection standards, and CSKT policies. This position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Restoration Ecology, Civil/Environmental Engineering, Natural Resource Management, or related field. Required to have a minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in ecological restoration, environmental project management, or construction oversight. Experience working with Tribal governments and regulatory agencies is strongly preferred. Must have in-depth knowledge of ecological restoration principles and practices, hydrology, fluvial geomorphology, soil science, and native plant communities. Possession of a valid state driver’s license, and must have liability or full coverage insurance on personal vehicle (if used to travel off-site in performance of duties). Also, must successfully complete

a certified defensive driving course approved by the department, and wear Tribal Government identification and safety apparel while conducting field activities. FAILURE TO SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. All applicants are required to submit a Tribal Employment Application (Resumes may be submitted but may not replace or supplement the official Tribal Employment Application), copies of relevant academic transcripts and/or certificates, copy of valid state driver’s license, if applicable, please submit proof of enrollment from a Federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming Veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range is $30.44 to $34.99 per hour, including Benefits: Health

Insurance, Life Insurance, Retirement, Long-term Disability, and PTO & Paid Holidays. To apply, contact Personnel at 406/675-2700 Ext. 1040. FOR MORE INFO: Contact Tabitha Espinoza – Environmental Restoration Program Manager at 406/675-2700 Ext. 7238. Tribal Employment Applications are also available online at cskt.org/personnel. This position will close on Monday, March 16, 2026 at 5:30 pm. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. REGISTERED NURSE CARE MANAGER - (Ronan) TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT Successful applicant must possess a valid driver’s license. Current, unrestricted RN license from the State of Montana or compact state. Preference in having one year of nursing experience. Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) preferred. Certification in Care Coordination is preferred, required within one (1) year of employment. Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification (AMBBC) preferred. Existing or new see page 23

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public notices Legals cont’d from pg. 22 National Provider Number. As well as the following: For Level 1: A graduate of an accredited school of nursing, with an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN). For Level 2: Graduate of an accredited school of nursing, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). All applicants must submit a Tribal application and copy of academic transcript/training certificates and licensure, copy of valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Must pass a background and suitability check according to Public Law 101-630, the Indian Child Protection and Family Violence Prevention Act. Salary is negotiable, DOE, 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/ personnel. Closing date will be Monday, March 16, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. DETENTION COOK TRIBAL LAW & ORDER The successful applicant must possess a High School Diploma or GED. Two (2) years of experience in commercial or food service field of preparing meals for special diets such as diabetics, low sodium and etc. Must be experienced

in preparation of breakfast, lunch, and supper meals, in addition, incumbent must be knowledgeable in preparing special meals, baking, salads, soups, sauces, and desserts. Must possess a valid Class D Driver’s license and insurance. Employee is required to pass a background investigation. Will be required to carry and lift heavy cases of food and groceries. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, copy of valid state drivers license , copy of relevant academic transcript, if applicable, please submit 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. Salary $23.25 per hour, plus benefits. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal applications are also available online at cskt.org/personnel. Closing date is Monday, March 23, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER

impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

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

Equal housing

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Montana Human Rights Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, familial status, physical or mental disability, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-free at 1-800669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing

Public Notices Legals Legals Chuck Wall TURNAGE & WALL, PLLP Attorneys at Law 312 First St. East Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367 ChuckWall@TurnageWallLaw.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 & WALL, PLLP, Attorneys for the Personal Representative, at 312 First St. East, Polson, MT 59860. /s/ Donna Marie Kotyk DONNA MARIE KOTYK PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE Estate of PETER C. GLEIM, Deceased. March 4, 11 and 18. 2026 MNAXLP

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MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: PETER C. GLEIM, Deceased. Cause No.: DP-24-2026-7 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-entitled estate, and that the address of the Personal Representative

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