a hub of cultural exchange as young adults from across the country spent a week in Montana as part of the American Exchange Project — a program designed to connect students with different communities across the United States.
BEAU BIGGS PHOTO
students from northern California participate
cleanup effort at St. Ignatius Mission Dam.
The program’s mission is to help young people explore what it means to be American by immersing them in places they might not otherwise visit. The goal: foster understanding, connection, and curiosity about life outside their hometowns.
This summer, the exchange brought students from areas like northern California to western Montana, where they got a hands-on experience of rural life, outdoor landscapes, and the values of a smalltown community.
“I think the program is a great idea,” said Sariah Gilmore, a participant from Northern California. “I wouldn’t have thought of having a program that brings people across the country together, and I like how the program allows me to experience other walks of life that I wouldn’t have gotten to from where I live.”
During their time in St. Ignatius, the students participated in a cleanup at Mission Dam, visited the National Bison Range, and spent a day in Missoula exploring farmers’ markets and the local downtown scene. They also spent Sunday with their host families, enjoying meals, activities, and personal connections unique to each household.
Jeff Evans, one of the local host parents, said it was a rewarding experience.
“I enjoy being one of the host families since I enjoy getting to see the kids experience the mountains and everything else we have to offer here,” Evans said.
He added that time constraints were a challenge.
“The hardest part about being a host family is just getting to know the kids since we only get to spend one full day with them, and the rest of the time we only see them at night and in the morning — so we try and make it as enjoyable as possible.”
According to Ryan Brasseaux, the program’s chief impact officer, the exchange is about far more than just travel. It’s about building bridges.
“The project was started roughly five years ago by David McCullough, and David had a vision of what it meant to be an American — exploring the country and what it meant to be an American in the United States,” Brasseaux said. “He found in his travels that if you are polite and understanding, people are a lot more accepting of those they meet.”
Brasseaux has seen the impact of these programs firsthand.
“I traveled the country and embedded myself in different exchanges, and my jaw hit the floor seeing how young people engage with other young people — bridging the gaps between their understanding and the understanding of others,” he said.
He directs those interested in getting involved – either by being a host family or a high school participant – to check out the program’s website.
As students departed on July 23rd, they left with fresh stories, new friendships, and broadened horizons — the kind of experiences that leave a lasting impact long after suitcases are unpacked.
briefs
16-year-old dies in single-vehicle crash
News from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office
RONAN — The identity of the person who died in a single vehicle crash on July 26, 2025, in the Hammer Dam area of Canal Road, east of Ronan, is 16-year-old, Keykem Lozeau, of Ronan. The Montana Highway Patrol is investigating the crash. Lozeau was transported to the Montana State Medical Examiner for autopsy and the Lake County Coroner’s Office is investigating the cause and manner of death. The Lake County Sheriff and Coroner’s Office send our condolences to the family of Mr. Lozeau.
Daines lauds wins for Montana veterans, farmers, ranchers in Senate appropriations bills
News from the office of Senator Daines
U.S. SENATE — U.S. Senator Steve Daines recently released the following statement after the Senate passed appropriations bills funding the Departments of Veterans Affairs and Agriculture: “Today is a win for Montana’s veterans, farmers and ranchers. We protect the 2nd Amendment rights of our veterans and
provide funding for a number of programs that will benefit Montana’s agriculture industry. This is also a step in the right direction for funding the government through a bipartisan and transparent process, which is a win for the American people,” said Daines.
Race to Remember
POLSON - Join community members for a special event to honor the lives of those who have passed away. This is a tribute event to celebrate their lives and keep their spirits alive in our hearts. Bring a banner, poster, or T-shirt with the names of loves ones who have passed away. Arrive at Linderman Gym by 8:40 a.m. to sign a waiver. Run, walk, skip or hop in this free family event. No pets and no bicycles. If you have questions, call 406-212-9463.
Dessert potluck held in Big Arm
BIG ARM —
The Big Arm Association will host a dessert potluck on Friday, Aug. 8, at 6:30 p.m. at our historic Big Arm School. Please bring a dessert to share. Our guest speaker will be Police Chief George Simpson. He will be speaking about his book, “The Odyssey of the Flathead Indian Reservation.” Please join us for an informative evening. For more information email: thebigarmassociation@ gmail.com
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“If you scare them to the point where they’re not going to come and work, then the cherries are going to rot on the tree.”
- Brian Campbell, Monson Fruit field representative
By Victoria Traxler, Montana Public Radio
LAKE COUNTY
— In early July, a transformation takes place on the eastern shorelines of Flathead Lake. As the Mission Mountains loom in the background, endless groves of trees begin to display little red fruit. The cherries glint like crimson jewels in the mid-day sun.
For over 15 years, Maria Gomez has worked in these orchards seasonally. She and her husband travel from Washington to Montana to harvest cherries for about two weeks in July. They get paid about 25 cents per pound.
Gomez likes working here. She says she comes for the benefits.
“Because it’s like a vacation,” Gomez said in Spanish. “There, there aren’t places where you can spend time outdoors like here. Here, they can go to the lake and do things like that.”
There are opportunities for her children, and medical services offered to agricultural workers.
Many of her friends and family have done this work, too. But now, she says things have changed: “Things aren’t like they used to be,” Gomez said in Spanish. “Maybe it’s because of what’s going on right now, but things aren’t the same.”
Montana’s Flathead Valley cherry industry relies heavily on migrant labor. President Donald Trump’s recent immigration policies threw the industry into a new level of uncertainty.
This year, workers hesitated to cross state lines. Immigration and Customs Enforcement ramped up arrests following an Executive Order from President Trump in January. Montana’s Attorney General Austin Knudsen also signed an agreement in February to offer the state Highway Patrol to aid in immigration enforcement.
Documented or otherwise, the fear of the unknown, of ICE arrests and of what may happen if they were detained kept many from traveling to places they felt more vulnerable.
This hesitation from the orchard workforce put growers in a precarious position. Without the laborers, millions of pounds of fruit would be in jeopardy of going unpicked. The result was a near-miss labor shortage for the Flathead Valley. That has growers concerned for the future.
In early July, grower Bruce Johnson’s trees were bursting with fruit. There’s about 300 acres of cherries that need to be picked in the Flathead. Many growers have relationships with workers who return year after year.
Johnson is a board
member for the Flathead Cherry Growers Association. He explains this year was different:
“They generally call us, say, we want to know what the fruit’s like, when can I come, because they really want to come,” he said. “It was just kind of getting the word around that none of us were hearing from them. So, that’s when we started worrying.”
In March, immigration enforcement officers arrested 17 people in Bigfork they said were undocumented. That’s about 15 minutes north of Johnson’s orchard. By July 3, Johnson says many
growers had only heard from about half of their workers than normal.
Over the next three weeks, things changed.
Various factors like hail, wind, and market volatility reduced the amount of cherries that needed harvesting. At the same time, enough families decided to make the trip to Montana that a looming workforce crisis was averted.
Brian Campbell is a local field representative for Monson (mun-sen) Fruit. The Washington-based company packs and distributes most Flathead cherries that go to market.
Campbell says these workers are skilled and vital to the cherry industry’s success.
“If you scare them to the point where they’re not going to come and work, then the cherries are going to rot on the tree,” he said.
Much of Montana’s agricultural industry has
page 9
But migrant workers who spoke to MTPR said they knew many people too afraid to leave their communities in Washington. Some workers who came said they are scared, but need the work to support their families.
VICTORIA TRAXLER PHOTO
Buena Vista Orchard owner Bruce Johnson stands on his five-acres of cherry trees. Johnson is one of many orchards that relies on migrant workers from Washington to harvest cherries in July. see
Polson in Bloom contest winners announced
The Greater Polson Beautification Commitee selects Polson’s most beautiful gardens for 2025
News and photos from the Greater Polson Community Foundation
POLSON — On July 13th, Mary Jensen and Jane Larson, judges and members of the Polson Beautification Committee of the Greater Polson Foundation, selected the most beautiful gardens in the Polson area.
For Businesses, they selected Oak’s Korean Kitchen at 50486 US HWY 93 for first place. Second place winner is Whitefish Credit Union at 110 3rd Ave E. Third place winner is Glacier Bank Drive-Up at 402 Main.
For Private Residences, Julia Bagnell and Patricia Luetzen at 103 Yellowstone Court were selected for 1st place. Stephenie Clement at 202 3rd Ave E was selected for 2nd place. 3rd place went to Sandy and Fred Funke at 116 12th Ave W.
Special recognition went to Cindy Jobe at 102 5th Ave W for her lovely gardens.
Judges recognized
and appreciated the downtown area with its hanging baskets, bump-outs and business’ landscaping.
Nearly 100 hanging flower baskets that adorn the streets downtown are made possible through donations from businesses and many interested people. This year the city no longer had staffing to water the baskets. Greater Polson Foundation now collects donations and arranges for watering once a day (twice in extremely hot weather). The intersection bump-outs are maintained by diligent volunteers and the bump-outs are watered weekly along with the baskets. The water is provided by the city. Floral displays help to announce that Polson is a caring, thoughtful community. Tax deductible donations to help with this community wide project can be made to the Greater Polson Foundation at 406 883 4723 or send donations to GPCF at PO Box 314, Polson, 59860.
Mary Jensen, Jane Larson and Agnes Rinehart wish to thank those who participated in the Polson in Bloom Contest this year and in the past many years.
COURTESY PHOTOS
Top: Julia Bagnell and Patricia Luetzen were awarded first place for the best bloomin’ residence.
Left: Oak’s Korean Kitchen won first place for best bloomin’ business.
Above: Polson resident Cindy Jobe won special recognition for her gardens.
USDA designates Lake County as natural disaster area for drought
News from USDA
LAKE COUNTY — This Secretarial natural disaster designation allows the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) to extend much-needed emergency credit to producers recovering from natural disasters through emergency loans. Emergency loans can be used to meet various recovery needs including the replacement of essential items such as equipment or livestock, reorganization of a farming operation, or to refinance certain debts. FSA will review the loans based on the extent of losses, security available, and repayment ability.
MDT announces scope changes for US 93 projects
Funding challenges impact Post Creek Hill, Ninepipe Eagle Pass Trail projects
News from Becca MacLean on behalf of the Montana Department of Transportation
LAKE COUNTY — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) has scaled down two projects on U.S. Highway 93 (US 93) in Lake County due to funding constraints. US 93 Post Creek Hill project limits have been reduced, and the Ninepipe Eagle Pass Trail project area will be limited to the Eagle Pass Trail and US 93 Wildlife Overpass portions of the planned work.
“This is an example of how Montana’s transportation needs exceed available funding,” said MDT Mis-
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soula District Administrator Bob Vosen. “We will continue to work with our partners at CSKT and FHWA to find solutions and funding to complete these projects.”
A 2023 Neighborhood Access and Equity (NAE) grant awarded to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) was rescinded in July. This federal funding in the amount of $74.9 million was slated to design and reconstruct US 93 in the Ninepipe area and would have covered more than 80% of the project cost. This project included three segments; the US 93 North Ninepipe project; the US 93 Wildlife Overpass; and the Eagle Pass Trail Safety project. Improvements near the intersection of US 93 and Eagle Pass Trail, which include a wildlife overpass, shared-use path, new turn-lane, and widened shoulders are still planned for construction in 2027.
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The US 93 Post Creek Hill project is scheduled to begin construction next year. However, the construction cost of this complex project exceeds available funding, requiring that the length of improvements be reduced to align with available resources. Improvements planned for construction in 2026 include a northbound truck climbing lane at Post Creek Hill and a new bridge over Post Creek that facilitates wildlife movement.
Anyone with questions is encouraged to connect with the team or visit the project website at https://mdt. mt.gov/pubinvolve/us93npostcreekhill/. Email Becca at becca@bigskypublicrelations.com with questions or media inquiries. The public can also call the project hotline Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at 406-2074484.
Talk to experts before working near streams
Protecting Montana’s streams starts with a simple conversation
News from the Lake County Conservation District
Whether you’re a longtime landowner or new to rural life in Lake County, it’s important to understand how water is managed in Montana, and why it matters to everyone downstream.
If you’re considering doing any work near water on your property, it’s possible that your project falls under the Montana Natural Streambed and Land Preservation Act, commonly known as the 310 Law. Whether you are planning to build a bridge, install riprap, clear fallen trees and debris, dig near the banks, or even remove vegetation near the water for a better view, it’s likely you need a permit. The permitting process ensures your project meets your needs without damaging habitat or negatively impacting people downstream.
One thing that often surprises folks new to the area: you don’t own the water that runs through or next to your property. In Montana, water is considered a public resource, held in trust by the state for all its citizens. That means streambeds and their banks are
Stream Work?
Start Here First.
For Landowners Outside the Flathead Reservation: Lake County Conservation District
64352 US Highway 93, Ronan, MT 59864
Phone: (406) 6762811 ext. 102
Website: lakecountyconservationdistrict.org
Email: lakecountycd@macdnet.org
Common 310 Permit Activities:
Building or replacing a bridge or culvert
Streambank stabilization
Excavating or grading near a stream
Cleaning out debris or beaver dams
Diverting or altering water flows
For Landowners Within the Flathead Reservation: Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes – 87A ALCO & 64A Permits
protected by law. Even with the best of intentions, altering them can have lasting impacts on water quality, habitat and public safety.
That’s why the state has permitting systems in place: to make sure any work done in or near streams is done responsibly, with long-term protections in mind. The good news? The Lake County Conservation District and CSKT’s Natural Resources Department are here to help.
But jurisdiction mat-
ters:
If you live in Lake County but outside the Flathead Indian Reservation, contact the Lake County Conservation District. They administer 310 permits and can guide you through the process step by step.
If you live within the Flathead Reservation, your permitting agency is the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Natural Resources Department. In that case, you’ll need an 87A ALCO (Aquatic Lands
Conservation Ordinance) permit instead of a 310. Depending on the nature and location of your project, you may alternatively need 64A Permit.
Not sure which side of the line you’re on?
That’s okay. A quick call to either office will get you pointed in the right direction.
And don’t worry, the permitting process isn’t meant to be a barrier. It’s a tool to protect what matters: clean drinking water, fish and wildlife habitat, stable stream-
banks, and the integrity of this landscape for future generations. It also helps ensure your project doesn’t unintentionally create flooding, erosion or downstream damage. We all benefit when streams are healthy. If you’re planning work near water, or even just thinking about it, reach out before you break ground. Local staff can save you time, help you avoid costly mistakes, and connect you with practical, conservation-minded solutions.
CSKT Natural Resources Department
Phone: (406) 8832888
Website: cskt.org/ shoreline-protection
You may need an 87A ALCO or 64A permit for work involving: Streams, shorelines, wetlands, and lakebeds
Docks, bridges, bank stabilization, dredging, and more
Not Sure Where You Live? Call either office; we’ll help you figure it out.
CAROLINE MCDONALD PHOTO
The Swan River, above, passes through a variety of private and publicly owned lands.
a strong relationship with seasonal and migrant laborers. Over 3,000 foreign agricultural workers worked in Montana during the 2024 fiscal year. About 400 more come to work in orchards each summer.
Montana’s Department of Labor and Industry Commissioner Sarah Swanson says the agency would help growers find labor in the future if needed.
There’s lots of ways we could help them build kind of a response effort to projected workforce shortages in a short turnaround,” Swanson said.
But Campbell says trying to find 400 replacement workers to come for two weeks skilled in picking cherries would be an “exercise in futility.”
That’s why many workers did show up. Alma has been coming to these orchards since she was
a girl. She asked to be identified by only her first name out of concern of being targeted by ICE.
“Before, people came here and just looked for work,” she said. “Now the growers are looking for workers.”
She says she loves coming to western Montana and enjoys working for the people here. Alma and other workers told MTPR they feel respected and safe. But, Alma says she doesn’t know what she can do if arrests of migrant workers continue.
“If things get more difficult, as I see there are less people working here, I imagine it will get to the point where there won’t be cherries anymore,” Alma said.
Montana Public Radio is a public service of the University of Montana. State government coverage is funded in part through a grant from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Show watercraft inspectors appreciation this week
News from WMCC
HELENA — The Western Montana Conservation Commission (WMCC) today invited Montanans to celebrate the Fifth Annual Watercraft Inspector Appreciation Week from Aug. 4 to 8. Watercraft inspectors protect Montana’s waters by preventing the spread or introduction of aquatic invasive species at inspection stations across the state.
“We recognize the dedication, friendliness, and attention to detail the Montana watercraft inspectors deliver every day to protect our water bodies. They are our first line of defense against aquatic invasive species,” said WMCC Executive Director Casey Lewis.
Per Montana law, all watercraft, from pontoons to paddleboards, must stop at every watercraft inspection station they encounter. At the station, inspectors will ask a few questions, inspect the watercraft, and, if necessary, complete a decontamination. Inspectors are
trained to ensure all watercraft are cleaned of any plants, mud, or sediment; drained of any standing water; and dried. Dedicated inspectors have checked over 61,000 vessels in the 2025 season so far. Inspectors have prevented 28 mussel-fouled vessels and over 325 with aquatic weeds from entering Montana’s waters. More than 30 roadside stations across the state are operated by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks, and partner organizations such as the Ravalli station, managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and the Clearwater Junction station, managed by Missoula County.
“The Clearwater Junction station sees over 25,000 watercrafts in a season and serves as a major line of defense for the Blackfoot, Clearwater and everything downstream,” says Rebecca Busby of Missoula County Aquatic Invasive Species District. “Montana is one of only a handful of states that remains mussel-free, and we’re proud to say that our
program and community are helping to keep it that way.”
The WMCC, a commission attached to the DNRC, supports inspectors by bringing supplies to partner-led inspection stations as a thank you while highlighting the important efforts of watercraft inspectors in Montana. Boaters and other water enthusiasts are encouraged to stop by local watercraft inspection stations during Watercraft Inspector Appreciation Week to thank our friendly watercraft inspectors for their dedication and attention to detail in protecting Montana’s waters.
To protect Montana’s waters from aquatic invasive species, the WMCC encourages all Montanans to take advantage of decontamination stations, clean, drain, and dry all watercraft (motorized and non-motorized) and gear and stop at all inspection stations.
For more information on aquatic invasive species prevention efforts in Montana, visit: fwp.mt.gov/ais.
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!
valley views
Controversy in the kitchen
This column deals with a subject steeped in controversy, and we all know sometimes that can surround the most simplest of tasks, habits or preferences.
Which way to hang the toilet paper – over or under?
fruits, or in this casestrawberries.
Yes, strawberries.
I love these sweet, juicy fruits. That’s not the controversial part.
Slices of Life
Jill Pertler
Syndicated columnist
Ketchup as a dipping sauce for pickles and potato chips - yes or no? Wearing pajamas to the grocery store. Socks with sandals. Pineapple on pizza. Fried eggs on burgers.
And don’t even get me started on the proper way to load a dishwasher.
I understand there’s more than one way to skin a cat, but since I’m a fan of cats we won’t go there. Instead, let’s stick to a controversial topic that doesn’t involve any household pets. Let’s stick with
Eating them most often involves cutting the leafy tops off to make the fruit more accessible. Therein lies the debate.
For years - decades, if I am being honest – l’ve cut strawberries the same way. (The right way, if I may be so bold.)
I use a small paring knife to cut a “V” slit at the top of the berry in order to separate the leaves from the fruit. I use this technique for a couple of logical reasons. It limits the waste of the actual fruit while being an energy efficient maneuver. I takes just two quick slits with the
knife to get the job done.
In that, I thought I had life figured out.
Then, last week, my daughter visited and my strawberry world turned upside down.
My daughter is a young mom. Efficiency is at the top of her priority list, I get that. I just never dreamed this organizational prowess would trickle down to strawberries.
Until I saw her in the kitchen. With strawberries. She grew up under my influence. She watched me cut strawberries since her inception. And still.
And still, now when she cuts the leaves off strawberries she does not implement the V-cut technique! Instead, she cuts the top of the strawberry straight off - literally doubling the amount of fruit waste within each berry.
It reminded me of the time I was helping with prep work at a friend’s summer party. I was tasked with cutting the cantalope (which is a whole other article, by the way) while my friend prepped the strawberries.
She used neither the V-cut nor the straightacross method. Instead, she used a circular cut, nearly tripling the time used to process each berry. (Albeit minimizing waste, but time is money, as they say.)
Three ways of cutting strawberries might be enough for one universe - or at least one column. But as I contemplated describing this phenomenon (without discussing with anyone other than myself) things started popping up on my social media feed. I was prompted to purchase specially made
Videos showing DIYers using ordinary drinking straws to remove the strawberry stems crept onto my screen.
It was almost like someone (or the Internet) read my mind.
That couldn’t possibly be the case, right? I chalked it up coincidence.
Specialty tools or no, the conundrum of strawberry hulling remains. There are techniques based in time-efficiency and others in waste-efficiency.
And then – in my little corner of the universe –there is a third, the V-cut, a perfect blend of the two.
But I’m not here to influence anyone. You take your pick. There are many more important life controversies that need solving.
Let’s start with toilet
New federal tax change will make region less competitive
In most respects, Idaho and Montana have been enthusiastic in their pursuit of tax competitiveness. But if there’s one area of tax policy on which they are worse than their peers, it’s in their incorporation of GILTI—the federal tax on Global Intangible Low-Taxed Income— into their own state tax codes. Not even California or Illinois does that.
Twenty states and the District of Columbia tax GILTI, and Idaho and Montana are among them.
Valley Views
Jared Walczak Tax Foundation
With the federal tax on GILTI undergoing substantial changes under the recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), there’s no time like the present for lawmakers to reconsider this uncompetitive, and increasingly irrational, state tax policy. Under the new federal law,
GILTI is about to change to a tax on what is being called Net CFC Tested Income (NCTI). Since neither of these tongue-twisting terms is a household name, let’s take a step back to see what they are, and why these seemingly obscure provisions matter.
Prior to the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2017, federal corporate income taxes applied to the entire worldwide net income (profits) of a corporation, with credits for foreign
taxes paid. Now the U.S. operates under a mostly territorial system, with a few guardrails to curb international tax avoidance techniques like profit shifting and the parking of intellectual property in low-tax countries. One of these guardrails is GILTI, imposed on so-called “supernormal returns.”
Essentially, under the GILTI regime, the federal government looks at the profits of foreign com-
see page 11
paper, and from there we’ll move onto pizza toppings. Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.
LETTER POLICY
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Opinions expressed in this section are not necessarily those of the newspaper.
panies owned (or invested in) by U.S.based multinationals, and if their annual profits are more than 10 percent of the value of their tangible property abroad, the U.S. assumes that the foreign entity is earning income from intellectual property (royalty payments on patents, trademarks, copyrights, and the like). It then taxes the foreign income above that threshold, albeit at a reduced rate, with credits for 80 percent of the value of taxes paid abroad.
The upshot of this somewhat confusing system: if you have unusually high rates of profit in your foreign subsidiaries, and you aren’t paying much in foreign taxes on that income, the U.S. slaps a minimum tax on the activity. That makes a certain amount of sense. But when some states got in the act, taxing shares of this international activity, things got messy—fast.
Now they’re getting messier.
The OBBB overhauled the federal GILTI regime and rechristened it NCTI. Now, instead of only taxing foreign profits in excess of 10 percent, all foreign income from these controlled foreign corporations is brought into the tax base. As an offset, the share of foreign tax credits that can be used against liability increases from 80 to 90 percent.
cent of GILTI and Idaho taxes 15 percent. Each of these inclusions would rise with the reduction in the federal deduction under NCTI.
Under the GILTI regime, moreover, many expenses by U.S.-based multinationals were sourced to their foreign corporations to the extent that they were deemed to benefit them. Since these business expenses would have ordinarily been deductions from the U.S. company’s taxable income, these expense allocation rules (1) increased domestic tax liability for U.S.-based multinationals, since they were denied deductions for some of their business expenses; but, at the same time, (2) provided deductions for the foreign companies, reducing their taxable income potentially subject to GILTI. Under NCTI, these expenses are generally attributable to the parent corporation, and thus no longer reduce GILTI liability. (For a more detailed explanation of the changes go to: https://taxfoundation.org/blog/big-beautiful-bill-gilti-ncti-state-implications.)
from sales into European countries by a Europe-based corporation, rather than royalty payments for the U.S. parent company’s intellectual property sourced to a low-tax country), and without any reference to how much tax was paid to foreign countries.
Actually, it’s worse than that. Foreign taxes do matter for state tax liability, but not in the way you would expect, and not in the way Congress intended. When the federal government allows credits against the U.S.-based company’s tax liability based on taxes its foreign subsidiaries paid abroad, this involves an imputation: the taxes are included in the parent company’s income and then credited against its tax liability.
credits, however, the income is grossed up to $110 million, making pre-credit liability $13.86 million ($110 million x 12.6 percent), but then 90 percent of the value of the $10 million in foreign taxes paid is applied against the resulting tax liability, yielding $4.86 million in U.S. federal taxes. From this, it should be obvious that it’s no trifle that states omit the foreign tax credits, given their significance. And it gets worse still: states include the gross-up of income based on foreign taxes paid, even though they don’t acknowledge the tax credits. They literally tax the amount paid in foreign taxes. In the above example, states’ NCTI tax base would be 285 percent of the federal one.
page 10 see page 12
Under this new system, the initial base is broader (all income of these foreign corporations, with fewer expense deductions) and the rates are higher. And the vital offset—a credit for foreign taxes paid—isn’t available at the state level. That’s a huge problem, because without it, the whole system falls apart.
Imagine, for instance, that the U.S. company’s net income from foreign corporations was $100 million, and that those companies paid $10 million in foreign taxes. Without any tax credits, the NCTI tax liability would be $12.6 million ($100 million x 12.6 percent, which is 60 percent of the 21 percent federal rate). With the
None of this makes any sense. It’s an inversion of the federal system and its purpose, and beyond that, there’s no principled way to apportion this foreign activity to specific states. Yet many states tax GILTI and are on track to even more nonsensically incorporate NCTI.
Meanwhile, a 50 percent deduction that essentially limited the resulting tax to half the ordinary rate (10.5 percent rather than 21 percent at the federal level) is trimmed to a 40 percent deduction, raising the effective rate of the minimum tax. States often provide their own deductions that interact with this: Montana taxes 20 per-
When states tax NCTI, they’re not taxing foreign profit-shifting activity, or foreign income on which relatively little foreign tax has been paid. They’re taxing all the income of any foreign company in which a U.S.-based business has an ownership stake, even if the income was genuinely earned abroad (e.g., revenue
AUG. 9 - 7:30 PM
AUG. 10 - 2 PM
New federal tax
from page 11
GILTI was the rare tax issue where red states were just as guilty as blue states. But the conversion of NCTI, which will flow through to states currently taxing GILTI, might just be the nudge states like Montana and Idaho and others in the Mountain West need to remove this provision from their tax codes.
There are valid reasons for the federal government to tax some of the income of U.S.-owned foreign corporations. But virtually nothing of its federal purpose, or even its intended federal base, is retained when incorporated into state tax codes, and there’s little innate justification for state taxation of international activity.
California doesn’t tax GILTI/NCTI. Illinois doesn’t either. New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts eliminated all but a small share (5 percent inclusion). It’s time for policymakers in the Mountain West to ask why their states tax it, especially now that an already uncompetitive element of their state tax code is about to become considerably more burdensome.
Jared Walczak is Vice President of State Projects at the Tax Foundation.
SFIC works to strengthen Montana’s educational system
During Montana’s 69th Legislative Session, HB 153 was enacted directing the School Funding Interim Commission (SFIC) to update laws focusing on our educational structure and funding. The seated SFIC membership consists of six Senators, six Representatives, and eight individuals representing expertise as educators and school administrators, trustees, educational economists and members of the community advocating on behalf of Montana’s roughly 155,000 students in about 400 school districts.
Legislative Notes
educational opportunity to all. What is basic? What is quality? To what end? At what cost? The reference to “free,” in this case, means taxpayer-funded, the majority of which comes from your property taxes.
This commission forms decennially, to reassess the educational needs and costs related to Montana’s system of free, quality public elementary and secondary schools. Your commission is charged with conducting a study to evaluate the adequacy and equity of the state’s educational funding system, and to determine whether or not changes to the funding formula should be recommended to the 2027 legislature.
Montana’s Constitution, Article X, Section 1 establishes that the Legislature is required to provide a basic system of free quality public education that guarantees equality of
The goals of a number of SFIC members are to provide transparency and clarity in educational funding, efficiencies, and simplification of the funding formula. We believe that the Montana taxpayer should better understand the value of their dollars being spent to support our children’s academic achievement. The hurdle we face today hinges on the fact that we continually increase school spending, which might be producing “basic” results, but not necessarily academic success stories. The National Center for Education Statistics shows that increased inflation-adjusted spending, per student nationwide, does not equate to better educational test scores. Translation: this tired-out approach might achieve the definition of “basic and quality” education, but overlooks the importance of true student achievement. In Montana, education spending grew 36 percent since 2013, now nearing about $14,500 per student. In that same timeframe,
we’ve experienced a decline in math and reading scores. Depending on your location, your property taxes pay about 38 percent or more of basic school funding, in addition to add-ons such as local school mill levies. Where, we ask, does student success rank? How can we draw on the hopes, dreams, skills and talents of our children so they can become successful, contributing members of society upon graduation? What kind of compass to higher education and career track should we foster?
We intend to work toward strengthening our educational system for all our Montana students with heightened transparency and taxing simplification. It’s long overdue to examine the one-half of our property taxes that go toward school funding, while ensuring those dollars are managed efficiently and effectively.
Our primary goals as assigned members of the SFIC include reducing government and tax burdens while supporting the success of Montana’s student-centered education system. We are dedicated to improving and preserving the unique way of life in Montana which includes providing the best education possible for our students. It continues to be our privilege to serve our districts, as well as our entire state. Please feel free to reach out to either of us with any questions or concerns.
American Heart Association recognizes St. Luke for quality care
healthcare:
RONAN — St. Luke Community Healthcare has been nationally recognized by the American Heart Association for its commitment to delivering high-quality, guideline-directed care for both stroke and heart attack patients, earning five prestigious Get With The Guidelines® awards in 2025. These recognitions reflect the hospital’s commitment to excellence, particularly in meeting the unique challenges of rural
Gold Plus Award for Stroke Care, signifying excellence in consistently following the most up-to-date stroke treatment protocols.
Target: Stroke Honor Roll, highlighting rapid and effective stroke intervention.
Gold Award for Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), recognizing top-tier care for heart attack patients.
Bronze Award for Rural Stroke Care, acknowledging effective stroke treatment in a rural setting.
Bronze Award for Rural CAD Care, recognizing commitment to heart care for rural populations.
“Where you live should not determine if you live,” said Karen Joynt Maddox, M.D., MPH, co-author of the American Heart Association’s advisory on rural health. “Rural communities deserve high-quality cardiac and stroke care. St. Luke is recognized for consistently providing these patients with the care, guidance, and medical therapy they need to give them the best chance of survival.”
The Get With The Guidelines® program supports hospitals in implementing research-based protocols to ensure patients receive timely, coordinated care. St. Luke’s awards reflect performance in several lifesaving areas:
— Timely administration of aspirin and clot-busting medications
— Rapid EKGs and transfers for heart attack patients
— Consistent stroke response times and outcomes
see page 16
Sen. Sue Vinton, SD 20, Billings Majority Whip
Sen. Becky Beard SD 38, Billings Elliston
News from Whitney Liegakos, St. Luke Community Healthcare
Community members show classic cars at Pioneer Days Car Show
Story and photos by Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal
Aspart of Ronan Pioneer Days festivities, a classic car show was held near Glacier Bank on a warm and sunny Saturday, drawing car enthusiasts and curious spectators alike. The event ran from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring more than 10 eye-catching vehicles and over 20 entries up for voting in the “Best Car” category.
Those attending chatted with proud car owners about the history and restoration efforts behind their rigs. The atmosphere was lively, with the cars offering a nostalgic glimpse into automotive history and community pride.
Tom Dibernardo, a local spectator, said the event took him back in time.
“Today’s car show is interesting — it takes me back to my youth,” he said.
“I think the show is interesting since a lot of younger people haven’t gotten to see or drive cars like these. I like how they allow younger folks to take a look at these older vehicles.”
He also encouraged more classic car owners to participate in events like this.
“There are a lot of people with collectible cars like these, and they’re go-
ing by the wayside. But I think they should still get involved so that the cars aren’t just forgotten.”
Caralee Starkel, one of the event organizers, brought out her own vintage ride to share with the crowd.
“I brought out my ’68 Mustang,” she said. “I love seeing people come
out and enjoy the cars.”
Attendee Chandler Miller was also impressed with the turnout and variety of vehicles.
“I thought today’s car show was pretty good, with some beautiful trucks and cars,” Miller said. “I enjoyed how open everyone was about evsee page 14
Broncs, bulls, barrels conquered at Pioneer Days rodeo
Story and photos by Beau Biggs for the Valley Journal
The second night of the Ronan Pioneer Days Open Rodeo kicked off at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 2 under a clear, warm August sky. The evening began with a moment of patriotism as a single horseman rode into the arena carrying the American flag during the national anthem. The crowd stood silent, hats over hearts, as the flag waved in the evening light —beginning a night full of rodeo contests.
The action got underway right after with Saddled Bronc riding, as cowboys burst from the chutes trying to hold on for a full eight seconds. The arena dirt was mostly dry, but a lingering mud puddle from a previous rainstorm sat squarely in the middle of the arena, kicking up occasional splashes as riders and horses crossed its path.
The rodeo continued with fast-paced team roping and tie-down roping, showcasing quick reflexes and solid teamwork. As the evening moved on, the Ladies Breakaway Roping event
erything — and the work that went into getting their cars in the shape they’re in.”
With a strong turnout, perfect weather, and plenty of stories shared between generations, the car show was a standout part of Ronan Pioneer Days—celebrating not just classic vehicles, but the community that keeps them alive.
brought out tough competition and personal stories. One of the participants, Josey Wilcox, shared why rodeo matters to her and what keeps her coming back:
“I got into doing rodeo because my whole family has been into rodeo, and I am using my sister’s horse tonight. I also may not have done the greatest tonight, but I am gonna keep trying and keep improving and hopefully have a better run in the future.”
She also gave honest advice to anyone looking to start in breakaway roping:
“Keep trying and don’t give up, and be ready to lose a lot because you only really start losing when you give up — anything before that is just time to learn.”
Shortly after came steer riding, where younger, upcoming riders tested their skills. Among them was Thunder Redhorn, who had a strong ride and some grounded advice of his own:
“I felt good about tonight’s ride, and if you ever wanna give riding steers a try, stay in the middle — just be ready for how hard it’s gonna be to stay on since they do buck.”
As the evening progressed, barrel racing approached — one of the most anticipated events of the night. The mud puddle in the
middle of the arena added a new element to the pattern, and riders had to decide whether to power through it or swing wide. Due to the high number of entries, several riders were still waiting in the overflow, including veteran rider Yvette Vega, who was spotted preparing with her horse, “Smug,” while watching others compete.
Though she hadn’t made her run yet, Vega shared her years of experience and some advice
for aspiring barrel racers:
“I have been riding since I was young and have been competing for 30 to 40 years. Some advice I would give to anyone who wants to get into barrel racing: ride a lot, just practice a lot, and make a good bond with your horse.”
As the sky darkened and the arena lights turned on, the night closed out with the main event — bull riding. The crowd came alive as bulls thundered out of chutes, twisting and
kicking with explosive power. Each rider gave it everything they had, some holding on for the full eight seconds, others flying off before the buzzer, but all met with cheers from the crowd. The bulls gave no easy
rides and the crowd’s excitement was palpable through the final run.
By the time the last bull left the arena and the announcer gave his thanks, the clouds had thickened a bit overhead, cooling things off,
but the rain still held. Fans filed out of the stands, talking about the night’s best rides, close calls, and the muddy arena patch that added further challenge.
St. Luke
from page 12
— Continued care coordination and follow-up support
“These awards speak to the dedication and collaboration of our entire team,” said Stephanie Prentice, Emergency Department Manager at St. Luke.
“We may be a small hospital, but we bring big expertise to the table — and every decision we make is focused on giving our patients the best possible chance of survival and recovery, right here in their own community.” “We are proud that our rural team is being recognized nationally for meeting — and often exceeding — standards of care,” added Abigail Byers, Director of Nursing Services at St. Luke. “From limited transport times to staffing realities, rural hospitals face significant hurdles. These awards demonstrate that we’re overcoming those challenges to deliver exceptional care close to home.”
Each year, over 1 million Americans are hospitalized with acute coronary syndrome, including the most dangerous form: ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Similarly, rapid stroke care remains a national priority, as timely treatment can prevent long-term disability or death. These awards affirm St. Luke’s readiness and dedication in both areas.
Join FLBS for annual open house
News
from the Flathead Lake Biological Station
YELLOW BAY — The FLBS Open House is free, family-friendly, and open to the public from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 8. It provides members of the media and local communities excellent opportunities to meet and engage FLBS scientists and educators regarding all aspects of their research and work. You’ll be able to talk with scientists who are working to prevent the spread of invasive
mussels, investigating the impacts of snow algae on the rates of snowmelt in high elevations, working to stop pollution from Canadian mining from reaching Montana’s waters, expanding the reach of our community engagement Monitoring Montana Waters and Pesticide Stewardship Partnership Programs, and more.
This year, the Bio Station will also publicly unveil and provide information about its new
FLBS research professor awarded
News from the Flathead Lake Biological Station
modular and expandable Membrane Bio-Reactor wastewater treatment plant during its annual Open House celebration, starting with a special presentation by FLBS Director Jim Elser at 11:30am. The presentation will be followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and informative session to allow visitors to see the new wastewater treatment plant’s processes and functionality. The unveiling will end with a brief question-and-answer session.
Visitors to the Open House will also have the opportunity to enjoy live music, free boat tours aboard our 30’ research vessel, and other family-friendly activities, all while enjoying plenty of sunshine and fun on the shores of Flathead Lake. Discounted and free food options will be provided by The Sausage Queen, Max’s Rad Catering, and Glacier Shave Ice.
Additional special guests include Monte Bear and
Montana Black Dog Services.
For more about the Bio Station’s new wastewater treatment plant, visit the FLBS website at: https://flbs.umt.edu/ newflbs/education-outreach/flbs-news/posts/ new-flbs-wastewatertreatment-plant/
For directions to the Bio Station: https://flbs. umt.edu/newflbs/aboutflbs/location-directions/ This promises to be a fun and informative event. We hope to see you there.
West Nile virus activity confirmed in Montana
News from Montana DPHHS
YELLOW BAY — The Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation has honored FLBS Assistant Research Professor Rachel Malison, freshwater ecologist, assistant research professor at Flathead Lake Biological Station with the foundation’s prestigious Award in Field Biology. Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation Awards in Field Biology provide support for scientists working at critical moments in their careers to explore, test, and help the world as we
face both great challenges and opportunities. Only five awards are made each year from nominations from around the globe. Each awarded scientist will receive $100,000 in unrestricted funds supporting their individual work, elevating their diverse perspectives and enabling them to commit time to observation and experimentation that helps us better understand ourselves and the world around us.
Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation powers people who explore and ask, teach and try, conserve and connect, create and captivate. Its funding supports individual scientists, teachers, conservationists and creators whose diverse perspectives enable us to discover new things about ourselves and our world.
MONTANA State and local health officials confirmed the first detections of West Nile virus (WNV) in Montana for summer 2025. WNV activity appears to be widespread across the state, and the Department of Public Health and Human Services is urging all Montanans to take increased precautions against mosquito bites.
Four mosquito pools have tested positive for WNV, including three in Lewis and Clark County and one in Cascade County. Detection of WNV in mosquitoes is an early indicator that activity is increasing within the state, elevating the risk of human illness. WNV can cause illness in humans after a bite from an infected Culex mosquito. The increased risk of transmission to humans is expected to continue through October, or as long as mosquitoes remain active in the state.
“Illness caused by WNV can vary significantly in severity,” said DPHHS Vectorborne Disease Epidemiologist Devon Cozart. “Although some people may not experience any symptoms at all, many people experience
the onset of flu-like symptoms ... Severe, neurological cases of WNV also occur every year in Montana.”
Currently, there is no vaccine or targeted medication for WNV in humans, aside from supportive care.
The 4 Ds of Mosquito Bite Prevention include:
DEET: Use insect repellent containing effective ingredients such as DEET or picaridin. To verify the effectiveness of insect repellent, go to the EPA’s website: epa.gov/insect-repellents.
Drain: Drain standing water around the house to prevent mosquito breeding.
Dawn/Dusk: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Stay inside or take extra precautions to prevent mosquito bites during these times. If doors or windows are left open in the summer, make sure they’re fitted with screens to keep mosquitoes out of the house.
Dress: When possible, wear longsleeved shirts and pants to protect against bites.
Contact your local health department or visit: https://dphhs.mt.gov/ publichealth/cdepi/diseases/WestNileVirus for more information about WNV protection.
Rachel Malison
seniors
POLSON
By Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal
POLSON - We have five drivers delivering up to 14 meals per driver, with routes up to 10 miles. We are doing what we can to deliver meals in a timely fashion, as always. Medical appointments are always our priority for taxi services if 24-hour notice in advance of your appointment is requested. We only have one taxi driver, and only a dozen or so time slots are available each day. Call 911 for emergency services.
August seems the time for reunions. We rent space for events. Advance notice required for weekends and evenings.
Too hot? We have air conditioning, food and friendship. Keep well hydrated. It’s good for you.
A nail clinic is available. You can sign up at center.
There is an employment opportunity in the center’s nutrition department. Call us and ask for Kaye.
Activities (air conditioned):
- Wednesday Play Day: cards, board, kitchen table games, Dominoes, chess, etc.; invite a foursome - casual - cool
- Pinochle: Thursdays (standard) and Mondays (no pass) - 12:30-3 p.m.
- early birds at noon -rotate partners - beginners welcome - free
- Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
We have space for small groups to meet for games or educational purposes, or crafts/ collectors, etc. - Wednesdays best - other days okay too - Spinning Wheelers: first Tuesdays of each month, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.208-520-1013
- VSO (Veterans Service Officer:) first Friday and third Tuesday of
When you donate your car, you’ll receive:
each month - 9 a.m.noon walk-ins OK - Bridge and Mahjong Clubs meet regularly at the center.
Menu (Subject to Change): lunch - $5 donation - served from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
- Wed. Aug. 6: orange chicken, stuffing, peas, fruit salad, bread pudding
According to the CDC, every year, one in four older adults report falling and it is estimated 41,000 elderly die because of a fall. Foot problems are usually associated with falls: Increased foot pain, reduced flexibility in the ankle joint, reduced muscle strength, reduced sensation, bunion and toe deformities. Have your health care provider or foot doctor check your feet to address if there are any foot problems that may increase your risk for falls. For safety, avoid wearing only socks or going barefoot inside and outside the home. Avoid wearing shoes over one inch, no ankle support or with a smooth sole. Shop for shoes later in the day. Have your feet measured to ensure proper shoe size and width. Accommodate for bunions, hammer toes, etc. by choosing shoes with a wide toe box. (Information from www.cdc.
gov/steadi)
Activities:
- Bingo: Saturday, Aug. 9 at 2 p.m.
- Gentle Yoga: held on Wednesdays 1-2:15 p.m. - If you are interested, call Bonnie Kiser at 406-253-0177. Her rate is five sessions for $65.
Menu:
- Friday, August 8: chicken casserole, green salad, banana, roll, raspberry bars
- Tuesday, Aug. 12: nachos, peaches, vanilla pudding, snickerdoodle cookie
- Friday, Aug. 15: fish, coleslaw-pilaf, biscuit, huckleberry pie
If you would like a takeout meal, call 406745-4462 by 10 am on Tuesday and Friday and by 2pm on Wednesday. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the center. Everyone is welcome at our meals (young and old). Come enjoy a delicious meal and good conversation. Our St. Ignatius Senior Center is open to available to rent. If you are interested, call 406-7454462 and leave a message. If you have questions about obtaining Elder Commodities, call or stop by for information and application.
Wednesday, Aug. 6
Science on Tap at Durham
POLSON — Join a ‘Science on Tap’ evening at the Durham, 49494 US93, from 6:30-8 p.m. with Dr. Matt Church, microbial ecologist at the Flathead Lake Biological Station. Church will share insights from his ongoing research into the invisible life forms and complex ecological dynamics of Flathead Lake. Tickets are $5.
Enjoy Summer Youth Cultural Connection Day
PABLO — Tribal Health invites all to Summer Youth Cultural Connection Day events. Activities will include, painting/coloring, specialty table, language, bead art, story time, elder visiting, traditional games and yard games held between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. with lunch provided. Call Chelsea Arlee with questions at 406745-3525 X 5065. The Aug. 6 event will be held at Woodcock Homesites.
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. 7
Lakers enjoy Summer Soiree
BIG ARM — The Flathead Lakers will hold their annual Summer Soiree on Thursday, Aug. 7, from 5-9 p.m. at 28275 Skipping Rock Lane. For more information go to: www. flatheadlakers.org.
Rock the Dock
POLSON — Music starts at 7 p.m. at the KwaTaqNuk Resort, 49708 US Highway 93 E, with Tommy Edwards providing the tunes. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.
Library ends summer with block party
POLSON — The Polson Library will end their annual reading program with an amazing block party on Thursday, Aug. 7, from 4 to 7 p.m. Come join the fun with hot dogs, ice cream, carnival games, a book sale. A prize drawing will be held at 6 p.m.
Taj Mahal Coming to Wachholz College Center
KALISPELL — Legendary blues icon and five time Grammy award winner Taj Mahal is bringing his unique and masterful sound to the Flathead Valley this summer on Aug. 7. Known for his profound influence on blues, roots and world music, Taj Mahal’s performance promises to be a captivating celebration of musical history, blending diverse
genres that have shaped his unparalleled career that spans six decades. For more information and ticket details, visit: wccmt. org or contact the ticket office at 406-756-1400.
Friday, Aug.
8
Dessert potluck held in Big Arm
BIG ARM — The Big Arm Association will host a dessert potluck on Friday, Aug. 8, at 6:30 p.m. at our historic Big Arm School. Please bring a dessert to share. Our guest speaker will be Police Chief George Simpson. He will be speaking about his book, “The Odyssey of the Flathead Indian Reservation.” Please join us for an informative evening. For more information email: thebigarmassociation@ gmail.com
Music played at Glacier Brewing
POLSON — Glacier Brewing, 6 Tenth Ave. E, will host Jon Schumaker starting at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 8.
33rd annual SKC Golf Scramble begins
PABLO — On Aug. 8 and 9 at Silver Fox Golf Course in Pablo, the 33rd Annual SKC Golf Scramble’s 18 hole scramble will have a shotgun start. Golf at 8:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. either day. The cost is $450 per team. To register go to: advancement@skc.edu.
Library opens late
POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will open at 1 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 8, to accommodate staff training, which will take place from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. The Joyful
Cup walk-up window will remain open regular hours, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Mother Goose cancelled
POLSON — The Polson Library’s Mother Goose program is cancelled for this day due to staff training.
Attend Teen Game Club
POLSON — In the Polson Library’s Community Room every second Friday of each month from 4 to 5:30 p.m., teens can unplug, play and conquer with the Teen Game Club.
Rock the Dock
POLSON — Music starts at 7 p.m. at the KwaTaqNuk Resort, 49708 US Highway 93 E, with see page 19
Caselli & Crew providing the tunes. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.
Save the date for FLBS Open House
YELLOW BAY - Join us at our beautiful Yellow Bay facilities for a day of immersive science activities and presentations. Meet our faculty, staff and students; listen to informative presentations on the State of the Lake; enjoy food from one of our local food vendor partners, and more. Come early and get a ride on the Jessie B.
Music entertainment at the Durham
POLSON - The Durham on Hwy. 93 downtown Polson offers music by Richard Barrett on Aug. 8, from 6-9 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 9
Race to Remember
POLSON - Join community members for a special event to honor the lives of those who have passed away. This is a tribute event to celebrate their lives and keep their spirits alive in our hearts. Bring a banner, poster, or T-shirt with the names of loves ones who have passed away. Arrive at Linderman Gym by 8:40 a.m. to sign a waiver. Run, walk, skip or hop in this free family event. No pets and no bicycles. If you have questions, call 406-2129463.
Rotary’s Youth Raffle drawing held
POLSON - Polson
Rotary encourages you to purchase raffle tickets at $25 per chance or $100 for five chances to support the swim team and swim programs. You can win $1000, $1000 Montana Marbled Meats, $1000 propane, $1000 groceries or two season golf passes. Drawing takes place on Aug. 9 at 3:30 p.m. at the Elk’s Lodge. You do not have to be present to win.
Music at Glacier Brewing
POLSON - Glacier Brewing, 6 Tenth Ave. E, will host Jon KC & the Valley Cats starting at 5 p.m. on
MV Oval holds Elks Night at the Races
POLSON - The Racing Dynamics 100, with Super Late Models, INEX Legends, takes place on Saturday, Aug. 9. Gates open at 4 p.m., track opens at 5 p.m., qualifying happens at 6 p.m. and racing starts at 7 p.m.
For more information, go to: MissionValleySuperOval.com.
Enjoy Courthouse Art Festival
POLSON - The annual Courthouse Art Festival will be held at the Lake County Courthouse lawn on Aug. 9 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Join in the fun and enjoy local and regional fine art, artisans, crafters and music.
Music entertainment at the Durham
POLSON - The Durham on Hwy. 93 downtown Polson will have music by Sunlight Black on Aug. 9, from 6-9 p.m.
Flathead
Waters Cleanup
FLATHEAD WATERSHED — Help us keep our favorite places clean by participating in the 2025 Flathead Waters Cleanup from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Volunteer teams can register to pick up trash in and around any waterbody in the Flathead Watershed.
Rotary Club holds Fundraiser
POLSON — The 2025 Polson Brewfest is an annual fundraiser benefitting Mission Valley youth. The event takes place in conjunction with the annual Courthouse Art Festival and Cruisin’ by the Bay Car Show on Saturday, Aug. 9, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Raffle tickets will also be sold: 5 for $100 or 1 for $25. Five $1,000 prizes will be awarded. Funds raised support local youth projects such as the Polson Basketball Club, Friends of the Children and pickleball youth clinics.
Join Toddler Time
POLSON — The Polson Library’s Toddler Time is a program for 2-3 year old active Toddlers on Saturdays from 10-11 a.m. This program is all about movement where we’ll read active stories, dance, sing and shake it all about. Held in the Community Room.
Cruisin’ by the Bay Car Show held
POLSON — The annual Cruisin’ by the Bay Car Show takes place on Saturday, Aug. 9, on Main Street from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Registration is $25 each and $10 for each additional car. Cash prizes will be given. Find registration de-
tails at the Mission Valley Cruisers Facebook page or call 925-525-1134.
Run for Beer
POLSON — Join us at 10 a.m. for a fun-filled day of running, beer, and good vibes at Glacier Brewing Co., 6 Tenth Ave. E. Tickets start at $20.83, go to: Eventbrite.com. We’ve mapped out a 5k course that starts and ends at this awesome taproom by Flathead Lake. Gather your friends and come join us on Aug. 9.
Sunday, Aug. 10
Free carnival held
ST. IGNATIUS - The Mission Valley United Methodist Church, 70715 US-93 will hold a free carnival on Sunday, Aug. 10, from 1-4 p.m. There will be free food, free games, a bounce house, a cake walk and fun for the whole family. Come join us for some family fun! If you can bring a non-perishable food item for local food banks it would be appreciated but it’s not required.
Tuesday, Aug. 12
Polson Review Study Commission to meet
POLSON - The Local Government Review Study Commission will meet from 3-4 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 12, at 106 First Street, E. Call 406-8838200 for more information.
Enjoy Summer Youth Cultural Connection Day
DIXON -Tribal Health invites all to Summer Youth Cultural Connection Day events. Activities
will include, painting/coloring, specialty table, language, bead art, story time, elder visiting, traditional games and yard games held between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. with lunch provided. Call Chelsea Arlee with questions at 406-745-3525 X 5065. The Aug. 12 event will be held at the Anita Matt Building (Old Dixon Agency).
Wednesday, Aug. 13
Lake Co. Transportation Advisory Committee to meet
PABLO - The Lake County Transportation Advisory Committee will hold their next meeting on Aug. 13, at 11 a.m. at the CSKT Transit Center, 52001 Quicksilver Road. Planning and concerns will be discussed. Call 406676-2367 with questions.
Learn to meditate
POLSON — Join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednesdays for online instruction, via Zoom and in-person. Classes are from 6 to 7:30 p.m. For more information and a Zoom link to the class call Zenku at 847-721-0665. Go to: www.missionmountainzen.org for more information.
Enjoy Summer Youth Cultural Connection Day
ARLEE - Tribal Health invites all to Summer Youth Cultural Connection Day events. Activities will include, painting/coloring, specialty table, language, bead art, story time, elder visiting, traditional games and yard games held between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. with lunch
provided. Call Chelsea Arlee with questions at 406-745-3525 X 5065. The Aug. 6 event will be held at Arlee Homesites.
Friday, Aug. 15
Address climate concerns at Climate Café
POLSON — Concerned about the climate? The Climate Café offers an open space to connect, share ideas, and discuss meaningful actions. Our focus is on creating a resilient Flathead watershed and fostering unity for positive change. The group meets the third Friday of every month at the Flathead Lakers Patio, 110 Main St. Polson from 9-11 a.m. Join us to make a difference in our community.
Rock the Dock
POLSON — Music starts at 7 p.m. at the KwaTaqNuk Resort, 49708 US Highway 93 E, with Rob Quist providing the tunes. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.
Music at Glacier Brewing
POLSON - Glacier Brewing, 6 Tenth Ave. E, will host Achilles Morony starting at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 15.
Enjoy music entertainment at the Durham
POLSON - The Durham on Hwy. 93 downtown Polson offers music by Zane Tohme on Aug. 15, from 7-9 p.m. August 6, 2025 - 19
obituaries
William Bartel
RONAN - William
public meetings
bond to the land and his community.
“Bill” Bartel was born to Alden and Marcella Bartel on July 22, 1956, in Enumclaw, Washington, and left us far too soon on July 24, 2025. Bill moved to Montana in the second grade, and it was there, among the open pastures and rural charm, that his deep love for ranching took root. He grew up with strong values, a tireless work ethic, and an unshakable
On June 16, 1979, Bill married the love of his life, Lana. Together they built a beautiful life, raising their three children — Micheal, Michelle, and Amanda — in a home filled with love, laughter, and devotion. They raised their family and grew their ranch side by side, building a life rooted in hard work and love.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He found tremendous joy in following his grandchildren across the state to watch them play sports, always their biggest fan and most loyal supporter. He lived for those moments
— the games, the road trips, the laughter, and the pride of watching his family grow.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Alden and Belle Bartel, and his brother, David Bartel.
Left to honor his memory are his loving wife of 46 years, Lana Bartel; his children, Micheal Bartel, Michelle (Cameron) Marengo, and Amanda (Jonathan) Gilliland; and his cherished grandchildren, Cianna, Abrianna, Kailyn, Kember, Kinlee, Mathieu, Andrew, Micheal Jr., Issabella, and Benjamin. Also left to carry on his memory are his siblings, Diane Corbin, Tom (Val) Bartel, John (Wendy)
Bartel, Dan (Danielle) Bartel, Carolyn Benson, and Mary (Randy) Paulson; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Ronan Community Center. Following the service, there will be a meal and time to share memories and stories, honoring the special moments he brought to all of us. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at: www.shriderthompson. com.
Arrangements are under the care of Shrider-Thompson Funeral Home.
births
POLSON - Daisy Catherine Cochran was born July 15, 2025, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. She was 20.5 inches long and weighed 8 pounds, 5 ounces. Daisy’s parents are Kimberly and Tyler Cohran of Polson. Daisy joins siblings Talen, Taryn, and Emma. Daisy’s maternal grandparents are Don and Jill Gravos. Maternal great-grandparents are Dean and Jan Larson. Paternal grandparents are Tadge and Colleen Cochran. Paternal great-grandparents are Dave Graves and Sharron Cochran.
Mabel Oakland
POLSON - Mabel Antoinette Oakland was born on July 21, 2025, at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place. She was 20.75 inches long and weighed 8 pounds, 5.7 ounces. Mabel’s parents are Sierra and Carson Oakland of Polson. Mabel joins siblings Gannon and Peyton. Mabel’s maternal grandparents are Jhari and Marcos Pica. Paternal grandparents are Ross and Tara Oakland.
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.
William Bartel
Daisy Cochran
PUZZLES
classifieds
Announcements
Special Notices
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Employment
Help wanted
SENIOR FIRE/FUELS (CONTRACT POSITION) FORESTRY – DIVISION OF FIRE
The successful applicant must possess a high school diploma (or equivalent). Required Qualification-Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1). Required Qualification-Faller 3 (FAL3). Required Training - S290 “Intermediate Fire Behavior”. Must meet the Federal Interagency Wildland Firefighter Medical Qualifications Standards for arduous duty wildland firefighting. Must attain and maintain the pre-
requisite physical stamina and strength needed to perform rigorous duties and must pass the Work Capacity Test at the arduous level annually. Must possess a State of Montana State driver’s license at the time of hire and possess throughout employment. BIA requirement of employee adherence to all responsibilities under the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Motor Vehicle Operator Policy. Must continuously meet the requirements for an Interagency Qualifications Carding System (IQCS) rating for FFT1 and FAL3. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Tribal Drug and Alcohol Policy and is subject to pre-hire and random drug testing requirements. Applicant must submit a completed Tribal application, copy of valid state driver’s license, and relevant academic transcripts and training certificates to the Tribal Personnel Department, 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or visit the cskt. org/personnel website for the application. Salary is $18.96 per hour, including benefits. Closing date will be Monday, August 18, 2025 @ 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test.
Puzzle Answers
(From puzzles on page 21.)
Word Search Answers
CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.
Extension Agent – Family & Consumer Sciences and 4-H in Blaine County, Chinook, MT. Full time. Exciting job with lots of autonomy! Will develop, implement and evaluate Extension programming. Complete information and to apply: www.montana.edu/extension/careers. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile. Montana State University does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
FORESTRY TECHNICIAN (FIRE/FUELS) (CONTRACT POSITION) FORESTRY – DIVISION OF FIRE Applicant must possess a high
school diploma (or equivalent). At a minimum for Technician, two (2) seasons in fire/fuels related work. FFT2 qualified. Faller 3 (FAL3) qualified. Successful applicant is subject to annual medical examination and work capacity test for arduous positions. Successful applicant must pass both to meet the standards of the Technician position. Ability to successfully complete NWCG developmental training to include but not limited to S-131, S-290 and L-280. Ability to perform duties under stressful and adverse operating conditions, such as long work hours, heavy workloads, emergency situations, adverse working conditions and environmental conditions. Ability to communicate effectively and follow oral/written instructions. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees within a diverse workforce. Applicant must submit a completed Tribal application and relevant academic transcripts and training certificates to the Tribal Personnel Department, 406.675.2700 ext. 1040 or visit the cskt.org/personnel website for the application.
Salary $16.95 hour including benefits. Closing date will be Monday, August 18, 2025 @ 5:30 p.m. This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test.
CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.
Extension Agent in Meagher County, White Sulphur Springs, MT. Full time. Exciting job with lots of autonomy! Will develop, implement and evaluate Extension programming. Complete information and to apply: www.montana.edu/extension/careers. In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile. Montana see page 23
public notices
State University does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
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.
2,664 sq. ft. Warehouse, 2.4 miles E of Ronan, $1,400/mo, 3 month lease. 1st and Last Month’s Rent. Call Jim 1-406-241-2037
Public Notices
Legals
Legals
The Arlee/Lake County Water and Sewer District will hold a public hearing on Tuesday August 26, 7:00 pm in the Brown building, for the purpose of obtaining public comments regarding a proposed user rate increase and an application to the Montana Department of Commerce’s Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program for improvements to the wastewater system. At the public hearing, the proposed rate increase will be presented. The proposed wastewater project will be explained, including the purpose and project area of the project, activities, budget and possible sources of funding. All interested persons will be given an opportunity to ask questions and to express their opinions regarding the proposed project.
Comments may be given orally at the hearing or submitted in writing before August 25, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. Anyone who would like more information or who wants to submit questions or comments should contact Nicole Rediiske, Project Engineer at 1800 River Drive
North, Great Falls, MT 59401 or email Nicole.rediske@tdhengineering.com
August 6, 13 and 20. 2025
MNAXLP
School District No. 23
Polson Public Schools
*PUBLIC NOTICE*
RESOLUTION TO DISPOSE OF REAL OR PERSONAL PROPERTY
In Compliance with 20-6-604, MCA, the Polson Board of Trustees of School District No. 23, resolved to sell/dispose of surplus property which is unsuitable for the school purposes of the district. Items will be sold at a Surplus Property Sale to be held on August 6, 2025 from 8:00 -12:00 p.m. at the Polson Bus Barn, located at 9 9th Ave West, Polson, MT. 59860.
List can be found on the Polson School District website: https://www.polson. k12.mt.us/
July 30 and August 6, 2025
MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
City of Ronan Preliminary Budget FY 2025-2026
The preliminary budget for the City of Ronan for the 2025-2026 fiscal year is on file at Ronan City Hall and open to inspection by all taxpayers. A public hearing will be held at Ronan City Hall, August 27, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. Any taxpayer may appear at the hearing and be heard for, or against, any part of the preliminary budget. At a later date, the budget for FY 2025-2026 shall be finally approved and adopted by the Council.
Kaylene Melton, Clerk/Treasurer
August 6 and 13, 2025 MNAXLP
Skyler C. Bagley
Matthew H. O’Neill
O’NEILL & BAGLEY LAW OFFICE, PLLC
402 First Street East, Suite 201 P.O. Box 699
Polson, MT 59860
Telephone: (406) 883-5444
Facsimile: (406) 883-1585
skyler@polsonlaw.com matt@polsonlaw.com
Attorneys for Plaintiff
MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY
BRENDA RICHEY, AS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF LORRAINE SUSAN FROST, Plaintiff, vs. AMERICAN PIONEER TITLE INSURANCE, a now defunct Florida Corporation, and its successors and assigns; BENEFICIAL MONTANA, INC., a now defunct Montana Corporation, and its successors and assigns; and THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF LORRAINE SUSAN FROST, AND ALL OTHER PERSONS, KNOWN OR UNKNOWN, CLAIMING OR WHO MIGHT CLAIM ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, OR INTEREST IN OR LIEN OR ENCUMBRANCE UPON THE REAL ESTATE DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT ADVERSE TO PLAINTIFF’S OWNERSHIP OR ANY CLOUD UPON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE THERETO, WHETHER SUCH CLAIM OR POSSIBLE CLAIM BE PRESENT OR CONTINGENT, M.C.A. §70-28104, Defendants.
CAUSE No. DV-25-154
Hon. John A. Mercer SUMMONS
THE STATE OF MONTANA SENDS GREETINGS TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS:
YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Verified Complaint to Quiet Title (hereinafter referred to as “Complaint”) in this action, which is
filed in the office of the Clerk of Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you. In the event that you deny any or all of the material facts stated in the Complaint, you must file your written answer together with a $70.00 answer fee for each Defendant with the above-entitled Court, and serve a copy of your answer upon the Plaintiff or attorney at the address as shown on the Complaint.
The Answer must contain a denial of any or all of the material facts stated in the Complaint that the Defendant believes to be untrue, and also a statement, in plain or direct manner, of any other facts constituting a defense. Any matter not denied shall be deemed admitted. If you fail to answer or assert a counterclaim within twenty (20) days after service of the Complaint and Summons, the Plaintiffs may request entry of default judgment against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
This action is brought for the purpose of quieting title to land situated in Lake County, Montana, and described as follow:
A portion of the N1/2SE1/4 of Section 26, Township 21 North, Range 21 West, P.M.M., Lake County, Montana, further shown and described as being Tract B on Certificate of Survey No. 6096, records of Lake County, Montana.
Witness my hand and the seal of said Court the 23rd day of July, 2025.
Lake County District Court Mary Rensvold, Clerk of Court By: /s/ Mary Rensvold
Summons Issued at the Request of: O’NEILL & BAGLEY LAW OFFICE, PLLC
Skyler C. Bagley P.O. Box 699 Polson, MT 59860 406-883-5444
August 6, 13 and 20, 2025 MNAXLP
School District No. 30 Ronan/Pablo Schools
NOTICE OF FINAL BUDGET HEARING
The Board of Trustees of School District No. 30, Lake County, Ronan, Montana will meet on August 11, 2025 at 7:00 pm at the K. William Harvey Multi-Purpose room to consider and adopt the final budgets of the Ronan Elementary and Ronan High School Districts for the 2025-2026 school year. The meeting of the trustees may be continued from day to day until the final adoption of the district’s budget. District taxpayers may attend and be heard for or against any part of the school budget. For further information, please contact the Superintendent and/or attend the meeting.
