8-27-25 issue

County receives drought disaster declaration from USDA

By Joyce Lobeck for the Valley Journal

LAKE COUNTY —

The USDA has declared Lake County a natural disaster area due to drought brought about by a hotter and drier spring.

“The area has been in a D-3 drought state since July,” said Ben Montgomery, supervisory district conservationist in Lake County for the NRCS (Natural Resources and Conservation Service). He explained that D-3 on the U.S. Drought Monitor is the designation for extreme drought status characterized by widespread water shortages impacting agriculture, fish and wildlife. It is the third of four drought levels. Much of western Montana is in a similar situation, he added.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, 100 percent of Lake County is suffering drought conditions ranging from moderate (63.32 percent) to severe (33.05 percent) and extreme drought (3.63 percent).

This has been the 37th driest June on record over the past 131 years, down 0.72 inch from normal.

And this is the 34th driest year to date over the past 131 years, Montgomery said. The area received a decrease of 1.67 inches of precipitation from normal

during January to June 2025. That’s despite the nearly 12 inches of precipitation that has hit both Ronan and St. Ignatius since the beginning of the year.

Montgomery said that while snowpack varies, it was nearly average last winter at 85 to 90 percent of normal in

most sites. However, the hotter temperatures in May and June resulted in early snowmelt. This made it harder for irrigation project managers to capture water to store for the summer.

At the same time, there was little precipitation in May and June, impacting the

spring growth of pastures, rangeland and hay, Montgomery said. Officially, the natural disaster declaration means that farmers and ranchers in Lake County are eligible for emergency government assistance programs. On

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL PHOTO

Hay is cut in a field east of Back Road near Polson in July. Little precipitation in May and June impacted the spring growth of pastures, rangeland and hay.

drought disaster

from page 1

the ground, the reality is that “the problem for us is that the agriculture window is in May and June. That’s the most productive time for growing pasture and rangeland and hay. We missed that window. That’s why a lot of people had poorer crops for the first cutting.”

Then precipitation was higher than normal for July and August, bringing other challenges to farmers. “They had a lot of trouble timing their cutting with the wetter weather,” Montgomery said. “They cut, then the hay gets rained on. That affects the quality.”

So there were a lot of challenges this season for agriculture, he said. “The weather didn’t work in their favor.”

Agriculture is an important driver of the economy in Lake County. Forage and hay crops are the primary crops in the valley, with some production also of wheat, corn and canola. In addition, the county is known for such specialty crops as Flathead cherries and seed potatoes.

briefs

Body of missing boater recovered from lake

News from Lake County Sheriff Don Bell

FLATHEAD LAKE

— On Saturday, Aug. 16 at about 4:30 p.m., Lake County 911 received a report of a missing boater who had jumped from a boat into Flathead Lake in the Blue Bay area.  This was reported by another person on the missing person’s boat.  This prompted a search which has been conducted since Saturday.  The identity of the missing boater is 67-year-old David Easterly of Mill Creek, Washington.   On Tuesday, Aug. 19 at about 2 p.m., search teams located and recovered the body of Mr. Easterly. The decedent has been transported to the Montana State Medical Examiner’s Office for autopsy and the Lake County Coroner’s Office is investigating the cause and manner of death.

We wish to thank Ralston Search and Recovery, Flathead County Search and Rescue, Lewis and Clark County Search and Rescue, and Lake County Search and Rescue for their efforts towards this search and recovery. The Lake County Sheriff and Coroner’s Office extend our condolences to the family and friends of David

Easterly.

Donate to Loaves & Fish Pantry, donations matched

POLSON — From Sept. 1 through Nov. 30, Town Pump will match donations to Polson Loaves & Fish Pantry, up to $15,000. Donations help feed people in our community with food insecurity. You can mail your check to 904 First Street E in Polson or call 406-883-6864 with questions.

Sheehy leads letter to President Trump requsting action to stop Russia’s predatory palladium trade, protect MT jobs

percent tariff on imports of unwrought palladium from Russia in response to their ongoing market manipulation and dumping.

The letter comes as Senator Sheehy tours the metallurgical complex for Sibanye-Stillwater, the only primary source of palladium and platinum in the United States, which has been affected by Russia’s predatory trade practices. The letter was signed by Senator Sheehy, Senator Daines, Rep. Troy Downing, and Rep. Ryan Zinke.

“Russia currently dominates global palladium production and has exploited this position to undercut American producers. By flooding the U.S. market with underpriced palladium— bolstered by heavy state subsidies, lax environmental regulations, and government-controlled mining rights—Russia is attempting to wipe out domestic competition and secure monopoly control of a mineral critical to both our defense and energy future. The result has been catastrophic for Montana

workers. Prices have collapsed by more than half, leading to steep production cuts, hundreds of high-paying mining jobs lost, and the real threat of total mine closure. America cannot afford to become dependent on Russian-controlled palladium, especially at a time of growing global instability. If we act now, we can save what remains of our domestic industry, bring back hundreds of high-paying mining jobs, and re-establish a strong supply chain in America,” the group wrote.

U.S. SENATE – Recently U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy led a letter from the Montana delegation to President Trump expressing strong support for decisive action to stop Russia’s predatory trade practices and protect American jobs and critical mineral production. The group urged the president to immediately impose a 50

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News from Polson Loaves and Fish

News from the office of Senator Tim Sheehy

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Work progresses on landfill expansion; project to save money, protect environment

By Joyce Lobeck for the Valley Journal

LAKE COUNTY —

Work is well underway on the expansion of the Lake County landfill, a project that is anticipated to bring significant savings and environmental benefits to the county.

The first cell is expected to be completed by mid-to-late December and be ready to start taking trash by then, said Stacey Kintigh, Solid Waste director for the county. That’s none too soon, as the existing landfill is expected to reach capacity in January.

In addition, Lake County’s existing landfill near Polson can only be used for disposal of inert trash such as tires, concrete, clean wood and construction and demolition waste. Meanwhile, all household trash is currently being hauled to Missoula by Republic Services for disposal at its landfill there at a cost to Lake County of approximately $1 million a year. That’s because the Polson facility now lacks a liner to protect the groundwater from household garbage.

The dirt work has been completed for the first cell of the new landfill and work is advancing to Phase 2, lining the cell, Kintigh said. It will have mul -

tiple liners to prevent harmful substances leaked by the trash from contaminating the surrounding soil and groundwater, a critical step in mitigating the environmental impact of landfills. This new system will enable the landfill to accept household waste.

Kintigh said county commissioners weighed two options: Sell the solid waste service to a private business or keep it as a county-provided service to the public. By choosing the second option, the county will be able to keep down costs and provide better service, he said, noting

that a private company would have shut down the six container sites the county now operates for the convenience of residents. With the money the county will save through the new landfill, it will be able to keep down the fee property owners pay for solid waste service while enabling it to keep the container sites open.

“Kudos to the commissioners for their decision,” Kintigh said. “Now we will have years of the new facility, a very valuable facility for the community. We will be set for years to come.”

A year ago, the Mon -

tana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) licensed the project. The new landfill is being developed on approximately 50 acres south of the currently operating Lake County Landfill at 39276 Kerr Dam Road. A private drive will be used to access the site from the main entrance off Kerr Dam Road to the north.

Of the 50 acres, only 19 acres are planned for active landfilling activities. The remaining acreage will be used for infrastructure or retain its grassland character, Kintigh said.

“It just takes more land than you see,” he

said.

Total cost for the new landfill is $3.3 million. The project also involves building a new access road and putting in two new scale booths. Plans also call for construction for two more cells, with expectations the new landfill will be able to serve the community for 29 years. In addition, the county will be replacing the concrete floor of the Transfer Station on Reservoir Road. And it will purchase two tractors and trailers to haul trash from the container sites to the landfill since the county won’t be utilizing Republic Services anymore.

The new landfill will be state-of-the-art with the latest in technology and liner materials. Once it becomes operational, the trash will be covered each day with a clay-based fire-retardant material that can quickly be spread on to help reduce odor, control litter, insects and rodents, and protect public health, he said. This material will require less labor and eat up much less space than the more traditional use of dirt to cover trash daily.

There’s also a big push for more recycling, Kintight said. “Keep everything we can out of the landfill with material we can divert, such as metals and cardboard.”

Recycling materials are accepted at the Transfer Station. Some recycling is available at most of the container sites, including motor oil, metals and compost (leaves and grass). Various sites also are available for cardboard recycling.

Kintigh emphasized the importance of managing waste locally to lower expenses for residents. “We want a future - a prolonged future - for the citizens of Lake County to be able to handle our own waste, to be able to maintain our cost and to keep it low for the foreseeable future,” he said.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKE COUNTY SOLID WASTE

The first cell of the Lake County landfill expansion is expected to be done by mid-to-late December.

Ronan schools open new charter academy

By Joyce Lobeck for the Valley Journal

RONAN — When some Ronan-area middle and high school students started back to school this week, they didn’t head to the traditional classroom.

They were instead enrolled in the new Ronan Charter Academy. Begun this school year by Ronan School District 30, the academy offers an alternative route to an education with more flexible scheduling that includes some or all online learning, said Josh Illig, director of the academy.

Open this fall to students entering grades 7-12, this year is the beginning phase of the Charter Academy at Ronan School District with the goal of expanding opportunities in the future.

The new learning route will be built on some of the

same principles as the normal school system, but Montana regulations now provide more flexibility depending on the different needs of the student.

Students in the academy may choose between two education paths, Illig explained. They may completely attend online classes provided by Harmony Education Services or choose a hybrid route combining online learning and some face-to-face classroom work in existing classes with existing teachers. Both diplomas will be accredited.

As for extra-curriculum classes and activities, students may participate face-to-face in art and music classes, sports and FFA and such school activities as proms, Illig said.

Original enrollment throughout the summer was limited to out-of-district students and those being homeschooled. Due to the recent

implementation of Montana House Bill 250, out-of-district students are only eligible for a hybrid option requiring some face-to-face courses while homeschoolers could opt for online learning exclusively.

“We wanted to build up those students first before we began taking kids out of classrooms,” Illig said. “We advertised and students reached out to us.”

Even though classes have started this week, the enrollment process is continuing and will go on until Sept. 19, he said. “Now we’re recruiting current students … looking at their specific needs and situations before changing them over.”

The goal this year is to have 20 middle school students and 40 high school students – or more, Illig said.

“We’re on our way,” he said last week. “We’ve been well

received by the community. There’s quite a bit of interest overall.”

The academy aims to enhance the educational experience for homeschool students. It also targets students who would benefit from an alternative learning environment, including those engaged in workbased learning, aspiring to post-secondary education and those interested in Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in grades 7-12.

“We’re trying to get kids ready for trade jobs,” Illig said. “They can get some work experience and be ready to go to work when they graduate – if not while they’re still going to school.”

Montana’s state high school graduation rate hovers right around 85 percent. Some studies have also shown that rates of both attendance and graduation are lower on reservations.

“The time had come” for alternative learning through the academy, Illig said. “Some don’t do well in traditional classrooms. Others are working and need more flexibility. We need to meet the needs of all students.”

To enroll a student, or for questions regarding the program, contact Illig at 406-5287518 or josh.illig@ronank12. edu.

The Ronan Charter Academy was one of five new charter programs approved by the Montana Board of Public Education in June of last year with the decision finalized in January, following authorization by the Montana Legislature through HB 549 in 2023. The other charter programs include Big Horn Academy, Butte Pathway Academy, Libby Central Charter School, and Central Montana Career and Technical Education Academy.

Montana 250th Commission announces new authors for Virtual Book Club

Historians H.W. Brands and Marc Johnson, Journalist Garrett Graff to join Montanans live for engaging discussions this fall

News from Chris Averill, Chair, Montana 250th Commission

HELENA – The Montana 250th Commission recently launched a year-long series of vir-

tual events designed to build excitement around the United States’ 250th birthday in 2026. “Montana Reads: The Treasure State’s Book Club” is a

monthly online book discussion that will cover exciting topics and figures from United States, Montana, and Tribal history. After a success-

ful kickoff with author Stephen Fried regarding his book on Founding Father Dr. Benjamin Rush, the Commission is today announcing the addition of renown historian H.W. Brands as the speaker for its November event. Brands is the Jack S. Blanton Sr. Chair in History at the University of Texas at Austin and author of more than thirty history books.

Each month, a member of the Montana 250th Commission will lead

a presentation and discussion on books that explore myriad aspects of our shared history - from the Founding Fathers to Montana statesmen and women, cultural traditions to amazing innovation. These monthly discussions will feature conversations around the books’ central themes, seeking applications to current challenges and initiatives facing our state and nation. Montanans are encouraged to participate in any and all of these events that they find interesting, and where possible to read the book in advance.

All “Montana Reads” events will be held by Zoom on the second Thursday of each month, from 6:30 – 7:30pm MT. The Montana 250th Commission is excited to share these stories with all Montanans and will be bringing in special guests where possible to further bring this history see page 7

to life.

The fall lineup of events includes: — Thursday, Sept. 11: The Only Plane in the Sky: An Oral History of 9/11, by Garrett Graff

*NOTE: Author Garrett Graff will join us live for this special event in honor of the victims of Sept. 11, 2001 — Thursday, Oct. 9: Mansfield and Dirksen: Bipartisan Giants of the Senate, by Marc Johnson

*NOTE: Author Marc Johnson will join us live for this event — Thursday, Nov. 13: Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Jefferson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics, by H.W. Brands

*NOTE: Author H.W. Brands will join us live for this event

To register for events, please visit: https://mths.mt.gov/education/ index1. You will then be sent a Zoom link for that individual event. Please email - laura.marsh@mt.gov for any registration issues. Future authors will be announced in the coming months.

BACKGROUND: The 2023 Montana Legislature passed House Bill 377, establishing the Montana 250th Commission to coordinate statewide efforts to commemorate the United States Semiquincentennial. The objectives of this commission are to:

— Promote civic engagement and increase public awareness of United States and Montana government and history, including the history of Tribal nations;

— Recognize schools for outstanding achievement in civics and proficiency in history, government, and Indian Education for All (IEFA);

— Plan, coordinate, and implement an overall program to build public awareness of and foster public participation in celebrating and commemorating the 250th anniversary of the independence and founding of the United States;

— Draw attention to the achievements, honors, innovations, and significance of the people in this state and recommend ways for this state to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the independence and founding of the United States;

— Recognize the vibrant Indigenous cultures living in this place in 1776;

— Emphasize the service and sacrifices of veterans who have secured and preserved American independence and freedom; and

— Celebrate and commemorate with events and activities throughout this state.

To learn more about the Commission, or become a partner organization, visit: america250mt.org or email - mt250@mt.gov.

Govenor welcomes $81M investment in state’s construction industry

Cuts ribbon on EquipmentShare facility in Helena

News from the office of Governor Gianforte

HELENA — Governor Greg Gianforte recently welcomed an $81 million investment in Montana from EquipmentShare, the nation’s fastest-growing construction-technology and equipment-rental company and cut the ribbon on the company’s first

facility in Helena.

“When we welcome companies like EquipmentShare to Montana, we unlock jobs and innovation to make our state and construction industry stronger,” Gov. Gianforte said. “It’s great to help cut the ribbon on the first of four facilities across Montana and celebrate a significant investment that is sure to build a stronger future for our contractors.”

The school year is quickly approaching. Don’t forget to bring your child in for their summer well child check so they’re ready for the school year. These comprehensive visits are offered at no cost to you and help monitor your child’s overall health and well-being. If your student athlete also completes a sports physical during their well child check, St. Luke will donate $25 to their school's athletic booster club this fall!

Gov. Gianforte performs a ribbon cutting at the EquipmentShare facility in Helena.

COURTESY PHOTO

The Helena branch represents the first of four locations in the state that are expected to employ nearly 100 Montanans. The facilities will hold inventory of construction equipment to serve contractors and provide on-site maintenance for rentals.

“Montana is growing fast, and we’re proud to be here to support the builders behind that momentum,” said Charles Dodd, General Manager of EquipmentShare’s Helena branch. “With our technology, modern fleet, and a boots-on-the-ground service mindset, we’re ready to help contractors across the state tackle the toughest jobs and keep projects moving forward. This is just the beginning.”

With more than 330 branches now open nationwide, EquipmentShare is expected to open more than 600 locations in the coming years. The other Montana locations include Billings, Kalispell, and Great Falls.

“Our mission is to make construction safer, more productive and more secure – community by community,” said Jabbok Schlacks, co-founder and CEO of EquipmentShare. “Launching in Helena and expanding across Montana allows us to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the contractors who are quite literally building the state’s future.”

FIIP rotates weekly water deliveries

Hopes to make water last through Sept. 5

By Joyce Lobeck for the Valley Journal

With the implementation in mid-August in Mission District of a system of rotating weekly irrigation water deliveries, Flathead Indian Irrigation Project officials hope to have enough water to extend the season to Sept. 5.

It’s a balancing act, with water management officials juggling the needs of area farmers to irrigate their crops, a shrinking water supply and requirements mandated by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes – Montana water compact.

“We’re doing our best,” Nick Belcourt, temporary manager of the FIIP, told a packed room of irrigators during an Aug. 18 meeting at the agency’s office in St. Ignatius. “We understand people are angry as they watch their crops die. But if we don’t have the water, we can’t deliver it.”

This is because as fall approaches, there isn’t enough water flowing into the system to replenish what is being taken out. In addition, the area is struggling with drought conditions that resulted in Lake County being declared a natural disaster area by the USDA.

Severe staffing shortages are increasing the challenges of managing the system, Belcourt said, adding that FIIP currently is operating under a federal hiring freeze along

with difficulties in finding and retaining qualified employees.

Growers expressed concerns about what will happen in the future, or if they will have water at all to continue farming in the coming years.

Belcourt assured them they will have irrigation water in future years, but less of it as River Diversion Allowances are fully implemented in 2027 as mandated in the water

flows, Belcourt said. “We’ve been running tight flows this late in the season, then someone turns on the water and we’re in violation.”

He stressed that the key to continued successful farming in the district will be better management of the water delivery system. To that end, FIIP intends to install flow boxes on at least 10 gravity flow systems this winter. He also encouraged all irrigators to install flow meters on their pumps to determine how much water they’re using.

“That will give us a feel for how much water is used in each area,” Belcourt said. “We need to start measuring water and get some idea what areas need delivery. We’re struggling to keep it fair for everyone with the short staff we have. We know the new RDAs are coming. We’re trying to determine how to manage it … the best way to make this work for all users.”

In addition, he said, FIIP is negotiating with the tribes to use some of the $900 million they received in a settlement to improve infrastructure to conserve water and deliver it more efficiently.

compact.

RDAs are dedicated to serve irrigated headworks or pumping facilities for assessed irrigated acres, tailored for normal, wet or dry years for each RDA administrative area. At the same time, they need to meet tribal requirements to maintain certain water levels in rivers and streams for environmental reasons.

Currently, FIIP is in frequent violation of instream

He commended the Mission District for being the most efficient in its water use in the project, adding that gravity flow feeds used throughout the district are the most efficient way to irrigate.

However, Belcourt stressed, it’s important for those on a gravity feed to “have someone in charge so if there’s a break or a hose blows off, they will let us know” to avoid excessive loss of water.

JOYCE LOBECK PHOTO

Water flows through a Mission Valley irrigation canal.

Anglers should take precautions to avoid accidentally catching bull trout

News from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

MONTANA - Bull trout are icons of wild places and remind us why we love Montana. But to thrive they need colder water than other trout and that can be hard to find, especially in summer and in late August when they begin spawning.

Anglers can help by taking precautions not to target bull trout this time of year and by avoiding areas and angling techniques that might lead to an accidental catch. Remember, it’s illegal to intentionally fish for bull trout in most of Montana.

Bull trout are protected under the Endangered Species Act.

It’s not uncommon for bull trout to congregate where conditions are comfortable for them, like pools in a river where spring water can help keep temperatures down, or the mouths of tributary creeks where water is cooler. And while it might be tempting to cast a line to a group of large trout, angling can add additional stress or even mortality that some populations can’t tolerate.

“If you do catch a bull trout, land and release the fish quickly and keep it in the water as much as

possible,” said Region 2 Fish Manager Pat Saffel.

“We’re relying on the judgment and practices of our anglers to help conserve this iconic species in Montana. Negative impacts to bull trout from

BACK TO SCHOOL

Did you know that blurry vision can lower your child’s school performance by 50%?

anglers could lead to additional angling restrictions or even closures in some places.”

This summer FWP released a new bull trout identification test that can help anglers learn to distinguish them from other species, like brook trout.

Bull trout are often in the same places as other trout, so if you are fishing and see or even catch a bull trout incidentally you

should consider leaving the area or changing your fishing tactics to reduce your chances of catching a bull trout. Dry flies are less likely to catch bull trout than lures, flies, streamers or bait that are submerged.

Bull trout are found in the Clark Fork and Flathead drainages of western Montana. But their habitat is declining due to warming temperatures. Adults can tolerate water up to 65 degrees, but young bull trout can’t survive temperatures above 60 degrees and prefer a chilly 50 to 55 degrees. Give bull trout their space in the cool, clear water.

417 Main Street SW, Ronan, Montana 59864 Office: (406) 676-3937 • Fax: (406) 676-3938

Community Partner

PHOTO COURTESY OF FWP

bull trout

valley views

There’s a day for that

August 30 is Na-

tional Grief

Awareness Day.

Here’s the fine print: the day is an annual event focused on recognizing the different ways people experience grief and loss. In general, the day is meant to encourage open conversations about grief, reduce the stigma surrounding it and offer resources for those who are grieving.

All good.

However, from someone in the trenches, it comes across as (dare I say) lame.

well… we don’t need a day.

Slices of Life

Jill Pertler Syndicated columnist

Having a day set aside for something in particular makes it feel like a holiday. Like national hot day day (July 16) or donut day (November 5) or chocolate day (July 7) or hangover day (January 1) or fried chicken day (July 6) or world UFO day (July 20) or international pillow fight day (April 24).

aside for things like hot dogs and dachshunds didn’t want to leave the grief-steeped out. God forbid.

Imagine feeling left out because of your grief. (Insert sarcastic smile here.)

That would be the day, wouldn’t it?

Here’s the truth as I’ve lived it: Those of us experiencing grief don’t need a day.

For us, every day is grief day. Instead of a day, we need you.

used to answer our every text no longer has an active cell phone and in that we are alone with our thoughts.

This might be hard to think about because it isn’t pleasant. I get that.

I understand it’s difficult to be around someone who is in the throes of grief. Imagine what it’s like to walk in their skin.

Yeah.

I get the good intentions. I understand the ideology behind the idea. It’s just that, those of us who are truly grieving,

Grief doesn’t need to be put in this mix. Grief is bigger than a pillow fight or a hot dog or even chocolate. And it is so, so very much bigger than a day. It wanes in comparison. But those with good intentions who set days

We need you not to rescue us, but to be there. Not for just one day, not every day, but maybe just some days.

We’d love for you to make us a priority once in awhile, because the person or persons who did that are no longer here. The person who

I’ve been wading in this water for nearly five years, and I’ve come to terms with my situation. I’ve tried to make the best of it and I think I’ve actually grown in the process. Still, I miss my husband every day. And I am sad and I worry because I know.

I know that so many others will travel this road. So many whom I

know and love will follow this path and I don’t want that for them. I survived, but it was damn difficult, and I truly don’t want anyone to go through what I made it through, even though it’s unavoidable.

Because life ends.

When you get married, the obvious outcome is that one of you will die. No one thinks about that on their wedding day. So my best advice? If you are married and in love, embrace that. Embrace him, or her. Embrace the relationship and don’t ever let go. Realize we are all living on borrowed time and embrace each day. Don’t wait for the cause to celebrate an annual grief day. Create your own “I love you” day and celebrate that. Love now and love hard. My best advice so far. Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

When you can’t tell the cops from the robbers

As a civil rights lawyer, I wanted to dedicate my life to preserving and defending the Bill of Rights. I saw that as the highest duty imposed by my oath to “preserve and defend the Constitution of the United States from all enemies foreign and domestic.”

I took all kinds of civil rights cases—one of the first I worked with the ACLU of Il -

Peace Voice

linois to defend the American Nazi Party right to march in Skokie, Illinois, a place with a large number of people who survived Hitler’s Death Camps.

Kary Love, syndicated columnist

Unlike Nazis, the ACLU and I agreed even those who’s politics we detest, the Nazis, have rights to freedom of speech. Ironically in that case I was the sole ACLU lawyer who was not Jewish! Amusing, no?

I worked on many other civil rights cases. I represented US Army whistleblowers concerned about waste and fraud in military contracts, black carpenters denied jobs based on race, the rights of a disabled woman to say grace over her meals in a state run group home, librarians threatened with being fired due to school library book selection. Because the Bill of Rights applies to people, not only citizens, my rule was if a core Bill of Rights

right is involved, I am willing to fight for that right even if I personally disagree with the views of my client.

When I first moved to the most Republican county in Michigan, where the people had overwhelmingly voted for Republicans since Abe Lincoln, I realized that if I wanted to get things done outside of court, the GOP was the way to go. I ended up being “elected” a

see page 11

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.

cops from robbers

GOP “Precinct Committeeman” for a number of years. You may have never heard of this “elected” job. Precinct Committeemen don’t get paid, work for free, and mostly do things out of sight and out of the news.

But, in time I was able to get two amendments to the Michigan Constitution passed, fully supported by the GOP: one was Term limits. The GOP supported ending “professional politicians,” which had not worked too well, because they put more and more government regulation on the backs of the people, and replacing them with citizen lawmakers, on the view that “ordinary citizens,” who worked for their neighbors were preferable to pro politicians who worked for re-election and those who had the money to pay for it.

The second was property tax relief. We passed “Prop A” trying to give the people protection against constantly increasing taxes on their homes. Again, the GOP supported lower taxes, tax freedom and constraints on government growth and cost.

Today the GOP has turned its principles on their head. They want a Perpetual President, not term limits. A constant Congress made in their image. Not term limits. They want more taxes for government funding of ICE, TSA, CBP, and DHS among others, to intrude more and more into

the lives of neighborhoods.

Rather than cutting spending, the GOP is blowing past all rational restraints. Rather than supporting the right of the people to “get the government off their backs,” the GOP is putting more and more government agents on the backs of the people.

Instead of promoting self-government, by letting states and local governments run according to the will of the local people, the GOP is acting like Moscow and dictating central planning from DC in total disregard of state’s rights, and the 9th and 10th Amendments to the Bill of Rights. Instead of freedom of the people to make their own decisions and run their own neighborhood and businesses, the GOP is imposing more central planning from the nation’s capital, Including increasing the federal police, army, ICE, and other actions against local people often against their will. Even worse, they are now contrary to the GOP “principle” enunciated by US President Ronald Reagan at a press conference on August 12th, 1986. President Reagan said, “The nine most terrifying words in the English language are ‘I’m from the government and I’m here to help.’” Reagan is rolling in his grave at the news the GOP is sending masked, unidentified federal cops, national guard and even Marines into neighborhoods often without the consent of the governed! The fact that the “reason” for sending in the US Marshalls, Secret Service, FBI and others is based on

“fake news” (i.e., false claims about crime) is hugely concerning.

But when you enable those federal agents to go masked and unidentified, you are deploying the undeniably “secret police” on the streets of America. Already reports emerge of people “kidnapped” off the streets by masked men unidentifiable as police. One anticipates true criminals will soon realize that, if they dress in “camo” and wear a mask and shout, “We are federal agents,” their crimes will be enabled, not deterred.

When you cannot tell the cops from the robbers, you are in deep water without a life vest, wearing cement overshoes. I may be wrong, but to me not being able to tell the cops from the robbers is the antithesis of America.

Kary Love, syndicated by PeaceVoice, is a Michigan attorney who has defended nuclear resisters and many others in court for decades.

Annual Dayton Daze Celebration planned for Sept. 5

DAYTON — Theme for this year’s event is “Back to the Old West.” The Dayton Church starts things off at 9 a.m. with homemade goodies and crafts to sell. Parade registration starts at 1 p.m. at the Chuckwagon with the parade at 2 p.m. Activities, games and more begin at Dayton Park and Dayton School at noon. Chief Cliff Fire Support will have crafts, games, treats, and prizes for the best float and best costumes. There will also be the ever popular rifle raffle. Come join the fun. If you have questions, call Zoe at 406-849-5917 or Judy at 406849-5652.

Governor: ‘It’s time to return grizzly management to

the state.’

CHOTEAU - Governor Greg Gianforte and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) Director Christy Clark recently met with landowners in Choteau to discuss grizzly bear populations along the Rocky Mountain Front and underscore the state’s petition to delist the grizzly in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE).

“The recovery of the grizzly bear in the NCDE is a success story thanks to the hard work and sacrifices of Montanans over decades,” Gov. Gianforte said. “With the bear now recovered and its territory expanding to areas not seen in over a century, it’s time for the state to take over management of this iconic American species.”

Grizzly bears were listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1975. At the time, the population of grizzly bears in the lower 48 states was estimated to be in the hundreds. Today the bear population in the NCDE alone is estimated at approximately 1,300.

As grizzly bear populations have increased in the NCDE, conflicts have increased with farmers, ranchers, recreationists, and residents.

Larger grizzly popu-

lation means increased odds of conflict, and Montana needs more tools to manage this species. If we don’t get those tools, our communities, families, farmers, ranchers, and recreationists will continue to bear the burden of federal regulation and having to worry about encounters,” the governor said.

“With a statewide management plan in place and our decades of on-the-ground experience, Montana is ready to take over management of grizzly bears. It’s time to get them delisted,” FWP Director Clark said.

Before the community event, the governor and director flew in an FWP helicopter to survey the Choteau area for bears.

Flying over the Rocky

Mountain Front, the group spotted a sow in the stream, within one hundred yards of grazing cattle.

Hearing from landowners at the city park in Choteau, the governor and director listened to growing concerns about grizzly bear activity in the community. Choteau resident John Long, a man who recently encountered a problem grizzly bear while foraging for mushrooms on his property, just two miles from the city park.

“She got out where she could see us, stood on her hind legs, dropped down, turned around and checked her cub. I thought, well here’s the part where she takes off. She didn’t do that,” Long said. “She started kind of

coms up on us as fast as she could.”

John was one of nearly 50 community members who came to the park to hear from the governor, Director Clark, and USFWS and to share stories about close encounters with problem bears near their homes.

Joining the governor and director at the event was Josh W.D. Coursey, of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). A Wyoming native, Coursey was recently sworn into to serve as Senior Advisor to USFWS Director Brian Nesvik.

trotting toward us. And at this point, she’s about 70 yards away, and she kind of comes inside that circle of 30 yards and lays her ears back and just

“I was sworn in May 1st, and I can tell you our highest priority is this issue right here. That’s why I took this job,” Coursey said.

In December 2021, Gov. Gianforte pe-

titioned the federal government to delist the grizzly bear in the NCDE. The petition outlined that NCDE grizzly bears are within a distinct population, have far surpassed population recovery goals, and that FWP has the structure in place to successfully take over full management of this iconic native species.

FWP monitors grizzly bears in Montana with the best available science and a team of dedicated specialists. Although grizzly bears in the lower 48 states have remained under the jurisdiction of USFWS, much of the day-to-day management is done by FWP’s specialists who work with landowners and the public to address conflicts and increase safety and education in bear country.

News from the office of Governor Gianforte

COURTESY PHOTO

Gov. Gianforte speaks to community members in Choteau.

COURTESY PHOTO

Gov. Gianforte and Director Clark survey the Rocky Mountain Front for grizzly bears in Choteau.

Semiconductor manufacturing company opens in Bozeman

Govenor cuts ribbon on Eshylon Scientific facility in Bozeman

News from the office of Governor Gianforte

BOZEMAN - Governor Greg Gianforte recently welcomed a new business investment in Montana’s growing semiconductor industry and cut the ribbon on Eshylon Scientific, a semiconductor manufacturing solutions company, in Bozeman.

“Montana is becoming a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation thanks to our growing economy and pro-business policies,” Gov. Gianforte said. “It’s great to welcome Eshylon Scientific to the Treasure State to experience our unmatched quality of life, highly qualified workforce, and the best climate for business.”

Touring the facility, the governor heard more from Eshylon Scientific founder and CEO Eryn Smith, about his company and his decision to relocate to Montana for a more favorable business climate.

“We were originally just going to bring our expansion to Montana, but after visiting the state and with the Montana Department of Commerce, we decided to pull tent stakes and leave the Bay Area,” Smith said.

He continued, “Montana offers a talented workforce. We are working closely with Montana State University, donating resources and hiring their graduating class of engineers. There’s lots of advantages to doing business here in Montana.”

Eshylon Scientific was founded in California and serves as a technology supplier in the quantum and photonics industry. During a Quantum conference, Smith connected with the business attraction team at the Montana Department of Commerce and made the decision to relocate to Montana.

The new facility will serve as the company’s primary research and development and manufacturing site, representing an initial $1 million investment. With pro-

jections to multiply the investment ten-fold, Eshylon Scientific currently employs four Montanans with expectations to grow.

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Classifieds, Legals ads, Op-ed and News submissions are due by 12 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28

Thank you for adhering to these deadlines, for advertising and reading local!

COURTESY PHOTO

Gov. Gianforte cuts the ribbon on the Eshylon Scientific facility in Bozeman.

NARSS announces launch of Rapid Response Team pilot project

By Joyce Lobeck for the Valley Journal

It’s a Saturday night and the police pull over someone who appears to be having a mental health crisis or substance abuse issue.

In the past, their only option was to take the person to jail. There’s a new option now through the Rapid Response Team, a pilot project offered by Never Alone Recovery Support Services in collaboration with Journey to Wellness that contracted with NARSS to provide the response team. The law enforcement officer or first responder can call the team and the person will be taken to NARSS’ hub in Pablo.

“The only requirement for services is the desire to stop using,” said Shay Ashley, a certified peer support specialist

“We need to break the stigma. Someone having a crisis, there’s not many places for them to go except a jail cell. We need to make sure people are getting the help they need.”

- Shay Ashley, NARSS residency and outreach director

with behavioral health, compliance manager for NARSS’ residency program and outreach director for the board of directors.

“We need to break the stigma,” he continued. “Someone having a crisis, there’s not many places for them to go … except a jail cell. We need to make sure people are getting the help they need.”

To provide information about the Rapid Response project and its other community peer support services, NARSS

held an open house on Aug. 14. Area law enforcement, first responders and members of the community were invited to attend, learn more about what NARSS has to offer, check out the facility and enjoy a free barbecue.

The Response Team is on call from 2 p.m. to midnight Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. “Times of the week when people are more apt to have a problem,” Ashley said. “There’s not a lot of places open then. We’re trying to bridge

that gap with local authorities.”

The number to call is 406-332-1003, or Ashley can be reached at 406241-9134.

“Call us,” Ashley said. “We can give them options. We have resources that can help. Sometimes people just need to sit and talk, have something to eat, watch TV for a while. Maybe take a shower.”

NARSS is a community of recovering people who want to share their experience, strength and hope with individuals seeking recovery from addiction, states the organization’s website. Peer support is the service of one addict helping another addict stay clean and learn about the recovery process.

Ashley estimated the organization has an 80 percent success rate. However, he added, “You

can’t really put a success rate on recovery. That’s every day for the rest of our lives.”

NARSS works in collaboration with Cedar Creek Integrated Health, Tribal Healing Court and the 20th District Adult Drug Court programs to offer recovery support services and life skills in both individual and group settings for all Drug Court participants.

The organization offers a walk-in center in Pablo at 42297 2nd Ave. E., where people can go for individual and group classes and support or just hang out. The center is open from 9 to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and until midnight Thursday-Sunday. NARSS also has a recovery residency program for men, women and families who are tribal members or have children who are

tribal members to provide long-term recovery support services to those struggling with addiction and homelessness. So far several families have been reunited as a result.

In addition, the organization offers a variety of fellowship activities, said Ashley. For example, it hosted a river floatdown on a recent Saturday and the following Saturday a night at the races.

NARSS is funded through grants and private donations. All classes and services are free – the only requirement is that the person stops using. There is a $500 fee for the residency program “to keep the lights on.”

Ashley concluded: “We just want to provide places for people to go who are battling with mental health issues and addiction.”

High water consumption, low water levels at Logan Pass create water shortages

WEST GLACIER

– Logan Pass is currently experiencing low water levels. The water supply is insufficient to support the number of visitors the area receives daily. Due to the shortage, visitors may expect to see changes to the times plumbed toilets will be available.

The water for Logan Pass area, which includes the plumbed bathrooms, and the

To conserve water, visitors may expect to see intermittent periods when plumbed bathrooms will be closed.

water filling station all come from a basin that is fed by a melting ice field. Rain helps to refill the basin during the summer, but the park is observing that the water is being used faster than it is replaced. Logan Pass normally uses 5,000

to 6,000 gallons of water a day. This summer the park has seen that Logan Pass uses an average of 8,000 gallons a day.

To conserve the water, visitors may expect to see intermittent periods when plumbed bathrooms will be closed. If

the closure occurs, the initial bathroom closure will be from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. The closure throughout the night is to refill the water tank. The vault toilet building and multiple portable toilets will be open for visitor use. The water filling

station will remain open for now.

With the potential water shortage, visitors are reminded that the water at Logan Pass has historically turned off early-mid September, in preparation for winter conditions. This year, water at Logan Pass will be turned off for the season on Sept. 7. Visitors should be prepared and bring their own potable water, as bottled water is not available to purchase at the Logan Pass Visitor Center.

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obituaries

Thomas Antiste

BIG ARM - Thomas Raymond Antiste, age 89, passed away on Aug. 13, 2025. He was born in St. Ignatius on Dec. 9, 1935. He was chosen as a newborn by Joe and Mary Antiste of Elmo.

He had a sister, Annie, who through her marriage, allowed him the opportunity to travel to South Carolina and work on an Army Base, Camp Lejeune. As he left the base to return back home, the MP’s hauled him back to the base, thinking he was AWOL. He was only 16 at the time. He said he was taken back to the base a couple more times before they finally believed him and let him go home. He enlisted in the Army Reserves at the age of 17.

His parents arranged his marriage to Susie Squeque and they married on Feb. 15, 1954. Susie was the love of his life.

Tom and Susie had 8 children together and were married until Susie’s passing on Dec. 18, 2020.

Tom enjoyed many different careers in his lifetime. He worked as a sawyer, sawmill worker; road construction worker; at Tribal Forestry and as a heavy equipment operator/excavator. Tom was legendary for his operating skills with the excavator. Any time you go into the mountains and see a tire or bicycle high up in a tree, you know Tom worked that area. Tom retired at the age of 71.

Tom was a man of few words unless you knew how to tell a

good story and then he would join in with stories of his own. He could be a pretty good prankster too, with a great laugh if you were lucky.

He enjoyed camping, picking huckleberries, playing stick game, and traveling; he took us on trips all over New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. He also loved spending time at his sweat lodge with loved ones.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Mary Antiste; his sister, Annie Antiste; his beloved wife, Susie; his great grandson, Dashane Hewankorn; his grandson, Shade Birdrattler; his son-in-law, Louie Charlo; his biological sisters, Tina Matt and Geraldine Butler; and his biological brothers, Joe and John Butler.

Tom is survived by his children, Dacia (Mickey) Fisher, Tony Grant, Raymond (Sharon) Antiste, Cindy Charlo, Pam (Carlie) Antiste, Bonnie (Jerry) Hewankorn, Joe (Tracey) Antiste, Mary Antiste, and K’la (Abe) Birdrattler; grandchildren, Francesca (Art) Taimanao, Marlene (Kenny) Bullchild, Lacey Crawford, Randy Grant, Celeste (Mario) Hewankorn, TJ (Davida) Hewankorn, Ashley Hewankorn, Charlene Hewankorn, Patrick Jefferies, Christina Antiste, Jennifer Antiste, Raven (Qwinsee-lah) Antiste, CJ Plant, Kolten Antiste, Aneena Antiste, Carissa Thiel, Charis Tanner, Trea (Jessica) Paulite, Kellen (Rosy) Paulite, Kaleb Birdrattler, and Sonny Birdrattler; as well as many, many great and great-great grandchildren.

A wake, funeral service and burial at Elmo Cemetery have taken place.

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

seniors

By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal

POLSON - School starts in Polson on Sept. 9. Watch out for school children being dragged unwillingly to school by grateful parents.

We are closed on Monday, Sept. 1, in honor of laborers.

There is an employment opportunity in the Polson Community Senior Center’s Nutrition Department. Call us for more information and ask for Kaye.

Congratulations to the officers and board members elected at our annual meeting on the Aug. 22. Copies of the annual report are available at the center on the day of the annual meeting and are on file afterwards. We will be closed on Labor Day. We honor the working class (past, today, and the future) who now continue to provide us with the goods and services we all enjoy.

Activities (air conditioned):

- Wednesday Play Day: cards, board games, kitchen table games, Dominoes, chess, etc.; Invite a foursome. - casual - cool.

- Bingo: Fridays at 6 p.m. standard games;

Wednesdays at 6 p.m. “playing card” elimination style bingo - easy play easy rules

- Exercise: You decide your level of comfort: M-W-F, 10:30–11:30 a.m. video-assisted - low impact - cool

- Pinochle: Thursdays (standard) and Mondays (no pass) - noon-3 p.m. - 16 players last week, room for more

- Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

- Spinning Wheelers: first, second, and fourth Tuesdays of each month - 11 a.m.-1 p.m. - 208-5201013

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

- Toenail clinic - Sept. 22 - early registration - sign up at the center - walk-ins accepted as time slots become available

- Bridge and Mahjong groups meet regularly at the center.

We have space for small groups to meet for social, health or educational purposes, Wednesdays are best. Our Community Center is open for special events on weekends and evenings. Call for details.

Menu (subject to substitutions): lunch $5 donation - served from 11:45 a.m.12:30 p.m.; Monday-Friday - Wednesday, Aug. 27: taco salad, Mexi-corn, grape salad, brownie

- Thursday, Aug. 28: stuffed peppers, beets, baked apples, fruit jello, custard - Friday, Aug. 29: burger on a bun, mixed veggies, potato salad, fresh fruit - Monday, Sept. 1: Closed for Labor Day events.

- Tuesday, Sept. 2: lasagna, garlic bread, corn, green salad, brownie

- Wednesday, Sept. 3: hot turkey sandwiches, mixed veggies, baked apples, Jell-O/veggie salad, fruit crisp

- Thursday, Sept. 4: barbecue ribs, baked spuds, beans, coleslaw, lemon pudding

- Friday, Sept. 5: sloppy Joes, tater tots, green beans, copper-penny-salad, cookies

The Polson Senior Community Center is open from 8 a.m.–3 p.m. on weekdays, or later by appointment. Contact us at 406-883-4735. We are located at 504 Third Ave. E. Email: polsonseniorcenter@gmail.com; visit us on Facebook!

Learn to pickle

ARLEE - The Arlee Community Development Corporation is hosting a free pickling class on Wednesday, Sept. 3, from 10 a.m. to noon. All participants will take home a jar of dill pickles. Space is limited, so sign up today. For more information call 406726-5550 or email: info@arleecdc.org.

Thomas Antiste

News from Arlee CDC

Commission passes new wolf regulations

News from Montana Fish and Wildlife

HELENA – The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission finalized wolf hunting and trapping regulations during a lengthy meeting on Aug. 21 where commissioners heard passionate comments from people around the country.

The Commission debated several amendments to the 2025/2026 Furbearer and Wolf Hunting and Trapping Regulations proposal that FWP released in early July. Though the regulations cover all furbearer trapping and wolf hunting and trapping, the central focus of the discussion was crafting

The Commission established that a person may harvest 15 wolves via trapping and 15 wolves via hunting ...

a new set of wolf regulations.

For the 2025/2026 wolf hunting and trapping season the Commission approved a 452 statewide wolf quota, which includes a sub-quota of 60 wolves in Region 3, and separate quotas of three wolves each in Wolf Management Units 313 and 316.

The Commission established that a person may harvest 15 wolves via trapping and 15 wolves via hunting, provided that five wolves

from each method of take are harvested in FWP Region 1 or Region 2. Hunters must purchase a wolf license for each wolf they harvest via hunting, but they may purchase up to 15 licenses before going afield.

The Commission approved a regulation allowing a trapper to gain prior authorization from FWP to temporarily leave the live wolf in the trap for the purpose of radio collaring by FWP. In this circumstance the wolf would not be

harvested, but the trapper would immediately notify FWP, per the prior authorization arrangement, and a FWP official would radio collar the wolf and release it from the trap.

The Commission approved regulation changes to require that all harvested wolves must be presented to FWP for inspection within 10 days of harvest for pelt tagging, tissue sampling, and tooth extraction. A trapper must present the hide and skull for tagging and sampling with-

in 10 days of harvest. It is now illegal to leave a wolf hide and skull in the field after harvest, even if the hunter or trapper doesn’t want to keep the animal.

The Commission removed trapping setbacks on roads closed to motor vehicle and OHV traffic (except snowmobiles and unless in a designated no trapping area) in Mineral County and on the Spotted Bear Ranger District in northwest Montana.

FWP staff will finalize the regulations and

release them online in the coming days. Printed regulations will be available later this summer.  Archery wolf season opens Sept. 6. Trapping season will open Dec. 1, except within the geographic area identified by federal court order. Just like last season, trapping within the geographic area will be limited to Jan. 1 to Feb. 15. The geographic area is all of FWP regions 1, 2 and 3, and portions of regions 4 and 5. This area, with limited trapping dates, is the same as last year, according to the FWP proposal.    Outside this geographic area, wolf trapping closes March 15, 2026, or when a quota is met.

Youth hunting access at Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area available through drawing

News from

MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks

KALISPELL — Applications will open Sept. 1 for youth hunters and hunters with a Permit to Hunt from a Vehicle (PTHFV) seeking an opportunity to access Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area near Columbia Falls this fall.

Bad Rock Canyon WMA is a 772-acre property along the Flathead River that provides seasonal recreation opportunities, including limited hunting for certain game species. Permission is required to hunt Bad Rock Canyon WMA and is

issued on a limited basis.

Below are details on seasonal hunting opportunities and application information. How to Apply

Applications can be received and submitted:

— In person - FWP Region 1 Office, 490 N. Meridian Rd., Kalispell, MT 59901

— By mail - Same address as above

— By email - fwprg12@ mt.gov

Hunting Opportunities

— Youth 2-Day Deer Hunt & General Rifle Season - application Period: Sept. 1–30, 2025

Who May Hunt:

— Youth hunters ages 10–15

— Hunters with a Permit to Hunt from a Vehicle (PTHFV)

— Hunting Days: Thursday through Sunday (or Monday if a holiday)

Notes

— Access at Bad Rock Canyon WMA is limited to hunting during this time.

— All legal species may be hunted with valid licenses.

— Hunting is within Deer/ Elk Hunting District 170.

— Random drawing determines access.

— Hunters must enter the

WMA from designated parking areas along Highway 2.

Winter Closure

Bad Rock Canyon WMA is closed to all public access from the end of the general hunting season in late November through May 15 at noon to protect big game winter range. As with all WMAs, the area is managed with wildlife and habitat conservation as the priority.

Recreational Access

Outside of hunting seasons and winter closure, the WMA is open for non-motorized recreation from May 15 at noon through the start of the youth

hunt in late October.

— Motorized Vehicles: Only allowed on designated access routes and parking areas

— Non-Motorized Access: Open to foot travel, horseback, and bicycles

Prohibited Activities:

— Camping

— Fires

— Wood cutting

— Commercial outfitting For questions or to obtain application materials, contact the FWP Region 1 office at 406-752-5501 or visit: fwp. mt.gov/aboutfwp/regions/region1.

Ronan mural

calendar

Wednesday, Aug. 27

Elmo Communitysave the date

ELMO — CSKT

Tribal Health is holding a Harvest Fest in several local communities on various dates. On Aug. 27 the fest will be held in the Elmo Ksanka Hall from 3:30-6:30 p.m. Enjoy the 2025 Harvest Fest.

Arlee CDC invites families to Ninepipes

ARLEE — Arlee families with kids of all age ranges are invited on a trip to Ninepipes on Wednesday, Aug. 27. The trip, sponsored by the Arlee Community Development

Corporation, will include a tour of the museum, a nature walk guided by a biologist, a picnic lunch, and time to draw or paint in their art journals. Transportation from Arlee, art supplies, lunch, and museum admission will all be provided by the Arlee CDC. To sign your family up, call the Arlee CDC at 406-726-5550 or email: info@arleecdc.org. Include the names of all family members who will be attending and the ages of the children. Participants will meet at the Arlee CDC office, 92555 US Hwy. 93, at 9:30 a.m. on Aug. 27, where a bus will take them to Ninepipes. They’ll return to the Arlee CDC at 2 p.m. Space is

limited, so call or email now to reserve your spot.

Go to Sanders County Fair

PLAINS — The 2025 Sanders County Fair, 30 River Road, takes place Aug. 27-Aug. 31 and includes three full nights of PRCA Rodeo performances (Aug. 28, 29, 30), a demolition derby, carnival rides, and a wide variety of food and fun for the whole family. Go to: Sanderscountyfair.com for event times. Weekly dry camping permits are available.

Free meditation class offered

POLSON — Join

the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays for online instruction, practice and discussion via Zoom and in-person. The classes will be rom 6 to 7:30 p.m. We will cultivate and deepen our centering skills and meditation practice during the class. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847-721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@ gmail.com. Go to: www. missionmountainzen. org for more information.

Thursday, Aug. 28

FRWMB meets twice monthly

RONAN— The Flat-

head Reservation Water Management Board meets twice a month, usually on Wednesdays. Their Thursday, Aug. 28, meeting begins at 1 p.m. at 400 SW Main Street in Ronan.

Black Powder Range Days held

ST. IGNATIUS —

Black Powder Range Days will be held at Fort Connah Black Powder Range, 71450 US-93, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27th. Free for Fort Connah Restoration Society members or $5 per person. Proceeds go student art history outreach program. For more information call 406-3872 or 406-210-9824.

Rock the Dock

POLSON — Music starts at 7 p.m. at the KwaTaq Nuk Resort, 49708 US Highway 93 E., with the group Black Cherry providing the tunes. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

Watch Plains PRCA Rodeo

PLAINS — PRCA Rodeo performances take place Aug. 28, 29, and 30 at the Sanders County Fairgrounds. Mutton Bustin’ events will take place each night for 5-7 year old children not exceeding 55 pounds. Rodeo seats are $13-$24. Drinking and

SUMMER GODDARD / VALLEY JOURNAL

Panoramic view of a colorful mural decorating a building on the corner of Main Street and 4th Street SW in Ronan.

from page 18

non-drinking sections are available.

Friday, Aug. 29

Library closes for holiday

POLSON — The Polson Library will be closed for the Labor Day Weekend, Aug. 30 through Monday, Sept. 1.

Sunday, Aug. 31

Watch the car carnage at Demolition Derby

PLAINS — The Sanders County Fairgrounds is the site for the annual Carnage on the Clark Demolition Derby on Sunday, Aug. 31. Tickets are $40 to $45 each. Go to: rodeoticket.com for information and tickets.

Monday, Sept. 1

Final day to register for MVFF

MISSION VALLEY — Register for 2025 Mission Valley Flag Football by Sept. 1. This program is for 3rd, f4th, 5th, & 6th grade boys and girls. For more information and registration visit: flatheadbgcsports.coml Practices begin the first week of September. Games take place in September and October.

Tuesday, Sept. 2

Attend Memory Café

POLSON — On Tuesday, Sept. 2, from 10

a.m.-noon Memory Café, a Dementia Care Partner Program with Angel Care takes place at the Polson Library. This program will repeat on the first Tuesday of each month. Learn more and register for this program by calling Danika at 406-409-8149.

Wednesday, Sept. 3

Learn to pickle

ARLEE — The Arlee Community Development Corporation is hosting a free pickling class on Wednesday, Sept. 3, from 10 a.m. to noon. All participants will take home a jar of dill pickles. Space is limited, so sign up today. For more information call 406-726-5550 or email: info@arleecdc.org.

Pablo Communitysave the date

PABLO — CSKT Tribal Health is holding a Harvest Fest in several local communities on various dates. On Sept. 3 at Two Eagle River School from 3:30-6:30 p.m. enjoy the 2025 Harvest Fest.

Free meditation class offered

POLSON — Join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays for online instruction, practice and discussion via Zoom and in-person. The classes will be rom 6 to 7:30 p.m. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847-721-0665 or email at: Jerry.Smyers@gmail. com.

Join ‘Good Dads’ informational meeting

POLSON — The Polson Library will host

an information meeting entitled, “Good Dads,” on Wednesday, Sept. 3, from 9 a.m.-noon in the meeting room. The presentation by Jennifer Baker, PsyD includes questions and answers. Visit: GoodDads. com; contact Connie Brownell, cbrownellmt@ gmail.com at 406-2612389.

Thursday, Sept. 4

Safety Fair held

POLSON — Lake County Public Health will hold a Safety Fair on Thursday, Sept. 4, between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 7th Ave. Park (next to skate park). Gather information on bicycle safety, safe sleep, tobacco education, gun locks, bike helmets, and car seat checks. There will

be face painting, good bags and the chance to meet Smokey Bear. Call 406883-7288.

Toddler Time held at library

POLSON — The Polson Library holds Toddler Time at 10 a.m. on Thursdays. This program is for 2-3 year olds and is all about movement.

Story Time begins at library

POLSON — The Polson Library holds Story Time at 2 p.m. This program focuses on 3-5 year olds and includes stories and activities for kindergarten readiness. Watch the library website for weekly theme updates.

public meetings

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.

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.

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.

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.

PUZZLES

Announcements

Auctions

JOHNCO STORAGE: Public sale September 3rd, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at 808 7th Street East, Polson. Sell to highest bidder for CASH OR CERTIFIED CHECK ONLY, contents of unit 216, 213, 56, 145, 48, 261, 249, 251, 181, 64, 85, 126, 260, 129, 133, 130, 246, 170, and 253. Units are subject to redemption prior to sale time. 406-883-5405.

Special Notices

BYOB

Be Your Own Boss! Looking for a fresh start? This well-established (20 years old), award-winning, weekly newspaper is for sale. $150,000. Call 406-2491793 for details.

Employment

Help wanted

CONSTRUCTION TECHNICIAN (FURLOUGHABLE/ CONTRACT POSITION)

DIVISION OF ENGINEERING & WATER RESOURCES/ DEWR COMPLEX

RONAN, MT - NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

The Construction Technician will operate heavy equipment and provide miscellaneous laboring duties in support of Safety of Dams and Roads Programs’ construction projects. This position requires the

applicant have a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid Montana motor vehicle operator’s license and be insurable under the Tribes’ insurance policy; a Montana Commercial Class A, Type 1 driver’s license is preferred; must have at least the equivalent of five (5) construction seasons of experience operating heavy construction equipment; training at an approved heavy equipment operator school will be equivalent to one (1) construction season of experience. Required to have a working knowledge of traffic control on construction projects; a current Flagger Certification is preferred. Knowledge of dams and their intended purposes including collecting, storing and releasing water and, concrete construction including formwork rebar tying, consolidation and curing is essential. 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 transcripts and/or certificates, copy of valid driver’s license, proof of enrollment from a Federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This 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 pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range is $19.72 to $22.67 per hour including benefits. To apply, contact Tribal Personnel at 406/6752700 Ext. 1040. FOR MORE INFO: Contact Scott Johnston - DEWR/Roads Program Manager at 406/675-2700 Ext. 6202. Tribal Employment Applications are also available online at cskt.org/personnel. This position will close on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at 5:30pm. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

RESIDENT CARE AIDE TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

(PRN - 1 or more positions) - Polson

The successful applicant must be at least 18 years of age, must possess a valid driver’s license, and a high school diploma or general education (GED) preferred, as well as: Level 1: Less than 4 years’ experience of caring for elders. Prefer CPR, first aid and Dementia Care Certification training but not required, must obtain within 6 months of hire, training available by CSKT Tribal Health. Level 2: 5 or more years of experience of caring for elders OR is a Certified Nursing Assistant with no work experience. Prefer CPR, first aid and Dementia Care Certification training but not required, must obtain within 6 months of hire, training available by CSKT Tribal Health. Level 3: 10 or more

years of experience of caring for elders OR is a Certified Nursing Assistant with 5 years of work experience. Prefer CPR, first aid and Dementia Care Certification training but not required, must obtain within 6 months of hire, training available by CSKT Tribal Health. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/ degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN 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 negotiable DOE, 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, September 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

WIC PROGRAM MANAGER TRIBAL HEALTH

DEPARTMENT

Rotating Mission, Ronan, Arlee

The successful applicant must have a minimum of 2 years’ supervisory experience. A minimum of 1 year working in Maternal/Child Health. Experience managing budget, and a Bachelor’s degree in nutrition science from an accredited college or university with a valid and unrestricted license in the state of Montana. Or a bachelor’s degree in nursing, health promotion, health education, health and human development, community health, early child development, exercise science, family and consumer sciences, or home economics, WITH six (6) or more college credit hours in food and nutrition appropriate to the WIC population completed within the last ten (10) years unless applicant has been working the Nutrition Field (examples include basic nutrition, nutrition in life cycle, community nutrition, and nutrition and disease), AND successful completion of an anatomy/physiology series of coursework completed within the last ten (10) years unless

applicant has been working in the Health Field, AND Certified Lactation Counselor. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFI- CATION 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 $28.78 - $33.08 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, September 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

FITNESS SPECIALIST TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT

St. Ignatius

(Wed-Fri 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat-Sun. 10:00 a.m.6:00 p.m.)

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

academic transcript/degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted.

FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. \Salary is $18.65 - $21.44 per hour, plus benefits, may be employed under contract. To apply, contact Personnel at (406) 675-2700 Ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org. Tribal applications are also available online at cskt.org/personnel.

The closing date will be Monday, September 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

SOD PROJECT ENGINEER SAFETY OF DAMS (SOD) PROGRAM

DIVISION OF ENGINEERING

& WATER RESOURCES

DEWR COMPLEX – RONAN, MT - NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT

The SOD Project Engineer position is a full-time position responsible for providing engineering and construction engineering services and assistance to the CSKT Safety of Dams Program. At a minimum, this position requires a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering or other related Engineering degree from an accredited Engineering College with emphasis on road and highway design, hydraulics, hydrology, construction, geology, and design of earthen embankments and general dam design. Successful applicant must possess an Engineer Intern (EI) license or ability to acquire in six (6) months. A Professional Engineering (PE) license is preferred. Experience with computers, including road and dam design software such as Auto CADD, Civil 3D, ArcGIS, and skilled in WORD and EXCEL; experience with construction scheduling software such as Primavera, Microsoft Project and Bluebeam Revu. 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 offsite 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, 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 $32.41 to $37.25 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 Trevor Bras - SOD Program Manager at 406/675-2700 Ext. 6208. Tribal Employment Applications are also available online at cskt.org/personnel. This position will close on Monday, September 15, 2025 at 5:30 pm.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

SOD INSPECTOR

SAFETY OF DAMS (SOD) PROGRAM

DIVISION OF ENGINEERING & WATER RESOURCES

(DEWR) - DEWR COMPLEX RONAN, MT NATURAL RESOURCES

DEPARTMENT

The SOD Inspector is a contract position responsible for performing duties that consist of, but are not limited to, construction inspection, and materials testing duties for the Safety of Dams Program and other Division of Engineering and Water Resources’ Programs as needed. Successful applicant must have a high

school diploma or equivalent. Experience with computers and software such as Microsoft Word, Excel and Adobe Acrobat is required. Experience in construction such as earthwork, concrete, rebar placement, road construction, and/or construction inspection is required; materials testing, laboratory analysis or experience in sample collection is beneficial. 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 successfully complete a certified defensive driving course approved by the department upon hire and every three (3) years thereafter; and required to 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, 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 $22.45 to $25.81 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 Trevor Bras - SOD Program Manager at 406/675-2700 Ext. 6208. Tribal Employment Applications are also available online at cskt.org/personnel. This position will close on Monday, September 15, 2025 at 5:30 pm.

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

SANITARIAN TRIBAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT (St. Ignatius)

The successful applicant must have: Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Health, Public Health, or related field. Must be a Registered Sanitarian in accordance with Montana state regulations. Certification in Incident Command System (ICS) courses (ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800) or the ability to complete this

within six months of hire. Documented experience in completing environmental health and food establishment inspections. Must possess a valid driver’s license and the ability to travel as required for inspections and investigations. All applicants must submit a Tribal application, a copy of academic transcript/degree, certifications, copy of valid driver’s license, if claiming Tribal preference, proof of enrollment from a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of the DD214 must be submitted.

FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy and subject to random drug testing. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $26.02 - $29.91 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, September 8, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. (MST)

CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.

Real Estate

Equal housing

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act and the Montana Human Rights Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, age, familial status, physical or mental disability, or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial 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 impaired is 1-800-927-9275.

Legals Legals

Chuck Wall TURNAGE & WALL, PLLP Attorneys at Law

312 First St. East Polson, MT 59860 Telephone: 406-883-5367 ChuckWall@TurnageWallLaw.com Attorney for Co-Personal Representative Colleen M. Engel-Allen

Mikayla A. Schneider, Esq. Jon Christiana, Esq. VANENGEN LAW OFFICE 2825 Stockyard Rd. Suite J-6 Missoula, MT 59808 mschneider@vanengenlaw.com

Attorney for Co-Personal Representative Kimberly Brownell

MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: EDWARD CHARLES ENGEL, Deceased.

Cause No.: DP-24-2025-34 Dept: 1

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN That the undersigned have been appointed as Co-Personal Representatives of the above-entitled estate, and that the addresses of the Co-Personal Representatives are set forth below.

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

A written statement of the claim indicating its basis, the name and address of the claimant, and the amount claimed, may be filed with the Clerk of the District Court, at Polson, Lake County, Montana, and/or mailed, Return Receipt Requested, to Co-Personal Representative Colleen M. Engel-Allen, c/o TURNAGE & WALL, PLLP at 312 First St. East, Polson, MT 59860, AND/OR Co-Personal Representative Kimberly A. Brownell, c/o VANENGEN LAW OFFICE at 2825 Stockyard Rd. Suite J-6, Missoula, MT 59808.

COLLEEN M. ENGEL-ALLEN and KIMBERLY A. BROWNELL COLLEEN M. ENGEL-ALLEN and KIMBERLY A. BROWNELL Co-Personal Representatives Estate of EDWARD CHARLES ENGEL, Deceased.

Aug. 20, 27 and Sept. 3, 2025 MNAXLP

Adult Education Classes Polson School District FALL 2025

Polson School District will be holding fall and winter adult education sessions this year. The first will begin the week of September 14-20 and end the week of November 9-15. If you’re interested in attending a class, please register ASAP to reserve your spot: https://www.polson.k12.mt.us/community/adult-education. The participant fee is a one-time payment for the entire session. Also, if you are interested in instructing a class during the winter session, please go to the Polson School District website and fill out the form for instructors. Additional questions can be emailed to Deanna McElwee at dmcelwee@polson.k12.mt.us.

Pickleball - Intermediate Open Play

Instructor: Tammy Kelley, tkelley@polson.k12.mt.us

When: Sundays Beginner 9:00-10:00 AM, Intermediate open play 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location: PHS gym

Fee: $10

Limit: 12 participants per session

Description: Step up your game with our class designed for players with some experience. In this open play format, you’ll have the opportunity to practice and refine your techniques in a fun, social setting while enjoying a great workout!

Circuit Training

Instructor: Deanna McElwee, NASM certified personal trainer, dmcelwee@polson.k12.mt.us

When: Mondays, 5:40-6:30 AM

Location: PHS gym/weight room

Fee: $10

Limit: 20 participants

Description: A co-ed, 50-minute, group fitness workout for men and women. Includes HIIT, weights, TRX straps, bands, balance, and bodyweight exercises to achieve a total body workout. Intermediate fitness levels are encouraged to attend.

Open Sew

Instructor: Stephanie Anderson, sanderson@polson. k12.mt.us

When: Tuesday and Thursday, 5:00-8:00 PM

Location: TBD due to construction

Fee: $20

Limit: 15 participants

Description: Come sew with us! Bring your project or come for ideas and use the class machines. All levels are welcome, but the instruction is not comprehensive for beginners. If you are stuck or want to try a new pattern, we will support each other in learning and growing on our sewing journeys. I will have a serger available too.

Hand Lettering Class

Instructor: Raina Yarbrough, ryarbrough@polson.k12. mt.us

When: Wednesdays, 5:00-6:00 PM

Location: Linderman room 139 Fee: $10

Limit:15 participants

Description: Discover the art of beautiful writing in this fun and relaxing beginner hand lettering class! You will learn basic strokes, lettering styles, and how to create eye-catching words and phrases using brush pens. No experience needed- just bring your creativity and a willingness to try something new.

Country Fusion Line Dancing

Instructor: Kylynn Sherry, ksherry@polson.k12.mt.us

When: Wednesdays, 5:00-6:00 PM

Location: Cherry Valley gym Fee: $10

Limit: unlimited

Description: Boost fitness with Country Fusion Line Dancing — low-impact cardio, full-body movement, and easy, repeatable routines set to country, pop, and rock. This beginner-friendly adult class improves stamina, balance, and calorie burn; no partner needed.

Beginning Water Color

Instructor: Roxanne Hovenkotter, rhovenkotter@polson. k12.mt.us

When: Tuesdays, 5:00-7:00 PM

Location: Linderman library Fee: $10

Limit: 14 participants

Description: Come and learn the basics of watercolor techniques. Explore and learn about the materials needed, the difference between tone, value and hue, and the joy of this fluid art medium. The first couple of lessons will be on techniques, but once we have those down we will delve into a painting each week. This will be a fun, low stress class to just have fun and splashing with paint!

Beginning/Intermediate Strength Training

Instructor: Lindsy Campbell, lindsybcampbell@gmail. com

When: Sundays, 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM (first class is

Sept. 28)

Location: PHS weight room Fee: $10

Limit: 15 participants

Description: You will be learning the basic lifts, designing your own programs to reach your personal goals, and including flexibility training and joint mobility into your routine.

Open Weight Room

Instructor: Deanna McElwee, NASM certified personal trainer, dmcelwee@polson.k12.mt.us

When: Fridays, 5:40-6:30 AM

Location: PHS gym/weight room Fee: $10

Limit: 20 participants

Description: Open weight room for men and women. Bring in your own workout or use one of the workouts provided.

Yoga Flow

Instructor: Julie Snyder, certified yoga instructor, juliesnyder18@gmail.com

When: Mondays, 6:00-7:00 PM

Location: PHS cafeteria Fee: $10

Limit: 25 participants

Description: Julie will guide a yoga flow open to all levels—from beginners to experienced yogis. This class will guide you through a mindful flow of yoga poses designed to stretch and strengthen the body while calming the mind. Come move, breathe, and reset with us. Please bring your own yoga mat.

Gentle Yoga

Instructor: Michelle Micallef, certified yoga instructor, micallef.michelle31@gmail.com

When: Wednesdays, 6:00-7:00 PM

Location: PHS cafeteria

Fee: $10

Limit: 25 participants

Description: Michelle will guide a gentle, beginnerfriendly class that introduces foundational yoga postures with a focus on breath awareness and the

mind-body connection. Each session weaves in a weekly theme to inspire reflection beyond the mat, helping you cultivate presence, ease, and intention in daily life. Perfect for those new to yoga or anyone seeking a mindful reset. Please bring your own yoga mat.

Intro to Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Instructor: Connor Mulvaney, cjmulvaney@gmail.com

When: Mondays, 5:00-6:00 PM

Location: TBD

Fee: $10

Limit: 20

Description: Explore the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and how to use generative AI tools like ChatGPT. This course will demonstrate various usages of AI tools and cover “best practices” for interacting with an AI model. This course is designed to help students understand how to use AI tools and will include “practice time” for students to practice working with various AI tools. (personal computer not required)

Knitting

Instructor: Christine Ayers, cayers@polson.k12.mt.us

When: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:30-6:00 PM

*Times can be flexible, come the first night and we can discuss what times work for everyone!

Location: Room 140, Linderman Elementary Fee: $20, includes a set of knitting needles and skein of yarn

Limit: 12

Description: We will learn the basics of knitting including: Knitting history/knitting tools, how to cast on a project, the basic knit and purl stitch, how to read patterns, how to increase & decrease stitches, and how to finish a project.

Open Gym

Instructor: James Bible, jbible@polson.k12.mt.us

When: Sundays, 7:00-9:00 PM

Location: PHS gym

Fee: $10

Limit: unlimited

Description: Would you like to meet some new people while playing basketball? Men and women invited!