$1.25
your homegrown newspaper May 8, 2024
Vol. 20, No. 34
MMIP 5K pg 5
Safe Harbor Circus pg. 16
KATHI BEEKS /VALLEY JOURNAL
Jeanne Christopher shows the beaded bag presented to her as a gift of appreciation for her 50 years of service to the children of the reservation.
Treasured Early Childhood Education Director honored Story and photos by Kathi Beeks / Vallley Journal
Sports pg. 18
RONAN — The 49th annual Early Childhood Education Powwow began by honoring the woman who initiated the
event. Jeanne Christopher quickly rose through the ranks of Headstart, beginning as a parent volunteer, to cook, teacher, and director. Always a champion
for children and parents, Jeanne’s career spans 50 years, impacting over 10,000 children, many of whom are now the grandparents of current students in Headstart
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and Early Headstart programs. Longtime co-worker and friend, Lolita Hendrickson explained in 1974 the program took place at the teen center
on the Arlee Powwow grounds. At the end of each day they had to put away and cover all the toys and materials as the center accommodated
see page 2