The Greater Polson Community Foundation recently awarded Impact grants totaling more than $81,000 to 20 local nonprofits and projects. Nonprofit directors, team members and GPCF Committee members were on hand to discuss their projects and accept funds on behalf of the nonprofits.
By Joyce Lobeck
An unprecedented 20 local nonprofits and projects were awarded IMPACT grants totaling $81,251 by the Greater Polson Com-
munity Foundation in November.
“We had a lot of applications for funding,” said Jennifer Rolfsness, executive administrator. They included a number of very worthy projects
that benefit the community and narrowing them down was a difficult decision by the hardworking grants committee. “Being able to give $81,000 to local nonprofits is pretty important.”
Grants were awarded to Sandpiper Art Gallery, Miracle of America Museum, Mission Valley LIVE,Fellowship Fitness Polson Boxing Club, Flathead Lake Bio Station, Helping
Hands, Flathead Lakers, Polson Youth Soccer Association, Scouting America-MT Council, Flathead Lake International Cinemafest, Polson
“Being able to support our community non-profits and their projects is definitely a highlight of our year.”
- Greater Polson Community Foundation Grants Chairman Jeanette Phillips
GPCF awards from page 1
Scholarship and Education Foundation, North Lake County Library, Mission Valley Aquatics, Western MT Aging Services, Mission Valley Animal Shelter, Polson Volunteer Fire Department, CASA – Youth Connections, Polson High School Football Team and the Polson Pickleball Club.
“Being able to support our community nonprofits and their projects is definitely a highlight of our year” said GPCF Grants Chairman Jeanette Phillips. She noted that since the foundation was established in 2009, more than $2 million has been granted to organizations to meet community needs.
The foundation’s website states: “GPCF Impact grants are to assist in the building of a ‘robust and welcoming community where we all have the opportunity to be healthy, well-educated, creative, productive and prosperous. We provide grants to enhance and improve the lives of the people who live in our community.”
GPCF grants are funded solely by the interest earnings from the foundation’s permanent endowment, which totals over $1.4 million. They are awarded annually through Trust Based Grants in February and Impact Grants in November.
The Impact grants – so named for the impact they have - are specific to nonprofit projects , Rolfsness said. For example, the Sandpiper Art Gallery works to
create fun and colorful art around the community, while Flathead Lake International Cinemafest attracts films from around the world to preview here and bring people to the area to increase business flow in the winter. The grant to the Mission Valley Animal Shelter will help fund improvements to the outdoor kennels.
Over the years, the Polson Public Library has been a recipient of several Impact grants for such projects as digitalizing its newspaper collection and installing a teen center, said Abbi Dooley, library director. The latest grant will fund the installation of outdoor musical instruments by Percussion Play that people will be able to come by and play. Installation will be in late spring or early summer.
“We’re really grateful for the support of the library,” she said.
GPCF donors’ generosity through directed gifts, donations, legacy gifts and grants make it possible to add significantly to the permanent endowment. As the foundation’s endowment fund grows, the organization is able to give out more money to help the community, Rolfsness said.
“We are only able to do these Impact and Trust Based grants because of our dedicated donors who truly love making a difference in the community that they love,” said Foundation President Toni Whealon.
For more information about donating to the foundation, visit greaterpolsoncommunityfoundation.org or call 406-883-4723.
HELENA — The Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI), in partnership with Level All, today announced a statewide initiative to expand postsecondary and career readiness opportunities for Montana students. Through this collaboration, all Montana schools, educators, and families will have free access to Level All’s digital learning platform, equipping students with tools and guidance for college, career, and life success.
The partnership builds on Montana’s focus on enhancing student readiness for college, trades, and the workforce through innovative digital tools and statewide collaboration. It strengthens OPI’s ongoing efforts to prepare every Montana student for success beyond high school.
By integrating Level All’s extensive library of multimedia resources, covering college planning, career exploration, financial literacy, and life skills, Montana educators can provide students with personalized, engaging learning experiences that support the state’s Personalized Career Plan and Financial Literacy standards.
“Our mission at OPI is to ensure every Montana student is prepared for college, a career, and life after graduation,” said Susie Hedalen, Montana Superintendent of Public Instruc-
tion. “Partnering with Level All provides an innovative, no-cost way to extend that mission, giving educators and students access to engaging, real-world tools that strengthen readiness and opportunity across our state.”
Level All supports OPI’s Personalized Career Plan and Financial Literacy Standards by offering more than 15,000 short-form, expert-developed resources aligned to academic, workforce, and life-readiness outcomes. Educators can access dashboards to monitor progress and assign interactive lessons, while students can explore per-
sonalized “Journeys” that help them plan and achieve their future goals.
“Montana is leading the way by bringing equitable access to career and postsecondary readiness tools statewide,” said Kevin Kenny, Co-CEO of Level All. “Together with OPI, we’re ensuring every student has the confidence, information, and personalized support to take charge of their future.”
The partnership ensures that Level All will provide platform access for all participating Montana schools, districts, and students, supported by OPI’s statewide implementation team and ongoing educator training.
We will be collecting gently used adult winter coats to be donated to a variety of loving adult care shelters. Please drop off at our office by December 15, to be cleaned and delivered by Christmas!
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Nonpartisan judicial races hide candidates’ party affiliation, Knudsen claimed.
By Tom Lutey, Montana Free Press
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen went too far in editing ballot language for an initiative calling for nonpartisan court elections, the state Supreme Court ruled Tuesday (Nov. 18).
With two judges dissenting, the justices sided with Montanans for Nonpartisan Courts, ruling that changes Knudsen made to Constitutional Initiative 132 would “mislead voters and prevent them from casting an intelligent and informed ballot.”
The initiative, if approved by voters, would amend nonpartisan court races into the Montana Constitution. In October, Knudsen approved CI-132 for signature gathering. To qualify for the 2026 November ballot, the petition needs 60,000 Montana voters to sign on.
But the attorney general also changed the ballot language for CI-132. Knudsen’s language states that “a non-partisan election prohibits labeling candidates on the ballot according to the political party the candidate aligns with,” suggesting that all judicial candidates align with a political party and the initiative would prohibit disclosure.
“We conclude the Attorney General’s proposed Statement does not meet the requirements of [the law], because his wording does not fairly state to the voters what is proposed within CI-132,” Justice James Shea wrote for a four-judge majority.
“ The proponents and opponents will both argue the merits of this point, but the ballot statement should be as clear as possible and divorced from campaign.
- Montana Supreme Court Chief Justice Cory Swanson
Chief Justice Cory Swanson and Justice Jim Rice sided somewhat with Knudsen. The attorney general had taken issue with the original CI-132 ballot language suggesting that judicial races would by law “remain” nonpartisan if the initiative passed. Nonpartisan races are the current Montana public policy, but there is no language in the Montana Constitution requiring nonpartisan races for judgeships at all levels.
“This is a proposed amendment of the Constitution, and use of the word ‘remain’ conveys the idea that the Constitution currently provides for nonpartisan elections, which is incorrect,” Rice said in his dissent.
In his dissenting opinion, Swanson connected Knudsen’s subjective assessment of undisclosed judicial partisanship with the well-plied allegations of political bias in the courts made by conservative politicians, including the attorney general. Knudsen has blamed activist judges for the justice department’s high-profile court losses on cases concerning climate change and abortion.
“The attorney general’s description implies the candidate will in fact be affiliated with an organized political party, but that affiliation will remain hidden from the voters,” Swanson said in his dissent. “While I understand this is the working
for making two substantive changes to the Montana Constitution that weren’t closely related. Ballot Issue 6 required that any new court created be staffed with judges who were elected, not appointed. It also required judicial elections to be nonpartisan.
theory of those who advocate for partisan judicial elections — remove the screen which is obscuring the judicial candidate’s loyalties — this theory has not been established as fact for the purposes of the official ballot statement informing voters of the proposed amendment’s substance.
“The proponents and opponents will both argue the merits of this point, but the ballot statement should be as clear as possible and divorced from the campaign.”
Knudsen was right about striking the word “remain” from the original CI-132 language, Swanson concluded.
The court’s majority was less literal than Rice and Swanson about the application of “remain.” Nonpartisan judicial races are the status quo, Shea wrote. Passage of CI-132 would keep court races nonpar tisan.
Knudsen argued that the Ballot Issue 6 subjects would have to be voted on separately to avoid “logrolling” unrelated constitutional amendments into a single vote, potentially confusing voters, or persuading voters to approve a legal change they dislike to obtain a change they do.
Montanans for Nonpartisan Courts also drafted Ballot Issue 6. The group said in a press release Tuesday evening that it was grateful for the prompt ruling on CI-132.
MNC also partnered with another petition group, Montanans for Fair and Impartial Judges, on Oct. 6 to sue over similar attorney general edits to Constitutional Initiative 131, a petition to make nonpartisan races constitutionally secured for state Supreme Court and district courts. That lawsuit remains undecided.
The initiatives follow several failed attempts by Republican legislators earlier this year to allow judicial candidates to declare party affiliation. GOP lawmakers have accused the courts of liberal bias after several laws passed by the Legislature in recent years have been ruled unconstitutional.
2025 POLSON COMMUNITY THANKSGIVING DINNER
“It does not mislead voters as to what the Montana Con stitution currently requires but provides the context that judi cial elections are currently non partisan and this amendment, if passed, would maintain that status quo,” Shea wrote in the majority opinion. “As we noted above, the current law is the status quo.”
The court unanimously sided with Knudsen’s rejection of a separate proposed ballot issue
NOVEMBER 27, 2024 11:00AM-2:00PM
Rsvp: (406)249-2067
512 MAIN STREET, POLSON
News from Chief Jason
Acheson, St. Ignatius Police Department
ST. IGNATIUSNominations are now open for the St. Ignatius Distinguished Citizen of the Year, a new community event.
The St. Ignatius Police Department is honored to recognize everyday citizens who go above and beyond to make our community a better place. We are now accepting Applications of Nomination for the 2025 Distinguished Citizen of the Year Award.
Selection criteria nominees should
Local elected to membership into the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi
BATON ROUGE,
ANA — Carolyn Koefod of Saint Ignatius, was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline collegiate honor society, at the University of Montana.
Koefod is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff and
demonstrate:
Meaningful Community Impact -
A positive contribution that improves the quality of life in St. Ignatius and Lake County.
Leadership & Initiative -
Taking action to address a community need or supporting others in a noteworthy way.
Ongoing Dedication -
A pattern of service and commitment to the community—not just a
one-time act.
Help Us Celebrate Our Communities Finest -
Let’s honor those who make our small town a stronger, kinder, and more connected community.
Instructions:
Applications may be picked up and returned completed at the St. Ignatius Town Hall, 12 First Ave., St. Ignatius Mt. 59865.
Please complete the
application as detailed as possible and to the best of your ability. You may also send the completed application to: chief@townofstignatius. com.
Please call 406-7453881 and speak with Chief Acheson regarding any questions. Applications must be submitted by Dec. 18, 2025.
We plan to award the winning nominee in January 2026.
alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.
Phi Kappa Phi was founded in 1897 under the leadership of undergraduate student Marcus L. Urann who had a desire to create a different kind of honor society: one that recognized excellence in all academic disciplines. Today, the Society has chapters on more than 300 campuses in the United States and its territories. Its mission is to “cultivate a community that celebrates and advances the love of learning.”
Join ‘Winter Streak’ walking challenge
FLATHEAD RESERVATION
— Tribal Health invites you to join the Winter Streak walking challenge beginning Thanksgiving 2025 through New Year’s Day 2026. Walk one intentional mile each day for 36 days. Register at: forms.office.com/r/tL8nBjVHjt
https://donorbox.org/montana-newspaper-foundation-charitable-giving.
from MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks
HELENA – Montana’s fossil record continues to surprise even the most seasoned researchers. Earlier this fall, paleontologists from the Museum of the Rockies announced the identification of a new species of dome-headed dinosaur, Brontotholus harmoni, from the Two Medicine Formation in western Montana. Dating to approximately 75 million years ago, this compact 10-foot-long pachycephalosaur represents the first of its kind documented in that geologic unit, an exciting addition
to the diverse cast of dinosaurs that once roamed the Late Cretaceous landscape of the northern Great Plains.
Although the Two Medicine Formation has been studied for decades, Brontotholus harmoni underscores how much we still have to learn. Pachycephalosaurs are known for their thick, domed skulls, and researchers believe these structures may have played roles in display, species recognition or intraspecific combat. The new find contributes to a clearer picture of how regional ecosystems changed as the Western Interior Seaway receded
and upland environments expanded. Even in an area as heavily investigated as Montana, discoveries like this demonstrate that our landscapes continue to yield meaningful scientific insights.
While this particular specimen was not found on FWP-managed land, the work provides an opportunity to highlight the collaborative relationship we maintain with the Museum of the Rockies.
Through a long-standing agreement, the museum has permission to conduct paleontological research on many of our properties. Each summer, their staff lead a multi-week field school
in Makoshika State Park, drawing scientists, students and volunteers from around the world. The field school has produced a wealth of new data about the park’s fossil resources and helps train the next generation of paleontologists.
The Museum of the Rockies also serves as the official repository for significant paleontological remains recovered from FWP lands. Many of the specimens that visitors admire in their galleries, ranging from hadrosaurs to tyrannosaurs, were originally excavated from properties we manage.
FWP’s Heritage Program regularly relies on
Attention
the museum’s specialists to help evaluate project-related impacts to fossil resources, as FWP is required to do under state law. Their expertise ensures that development and stewardship decisions consider the scientific value of these irreplaceable materials.
FWP staff across the agency play an important role in this work. Field crews, maintenance staff and seasonal employees may encounter fossils in the course of their daily duties. While many finds are expected and relatively common, some can be scientifically significant. If you spot a fossil while working in a park, fishing
access site or wildlife management area, please let the Heritage Program know. A quick photo and location description can make all the difference. You never know when a small observation might lead to a big discovery.
For those interested in digging deeper into the science, the formal description of Brontotholus harmoni was published earlier this month in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. It’s a fascinating read and a good reminder that Montana’s heritage, natural and cultural, is dynamic, evolving and full of unexpected stories still waiting to be told.
Web poll open through Dec. 31 lets respondents vote for one of three options
by Eric Dietrich Montana Free Press
MONTANA - A webbased poll will let Montanans pick between three proposed designs for updating the highway signs that welcome residents and visitors to the state.
The poll, announced Wednesday by the Montana Department of Commerce, will run through Dec. 31. Votes can be cast at: visitmt. com/welcome-sign via a web form that will require them to enter their name, email and zip code.
The commerce department and Gov. Greg Gianforte announced an updated state promotional brand in May, saying the new styling would be used for marketing the state to tourists, businesses
and international trade partners, among other economic development efforts.
MTFP makes sense of local decisions. Give today to keep trusted news free for Montana.
The department said this week that the contest will select a design for updated signage inspired by the new brand.
“Our highway signs give our families, friends and visitors the warm welcome they deserve,” Gianforte said in a
statement. “I am excited to see what Montanans choose.”
While the poll accepts responses from people with out-of-state zip codes, commerce department Chief Marketing Officer Mitch Staley said in an email to MTFP on Wednesday that only Montana responses will be considered as part of the selection process.
The department says the state’s current welcome signs where interstates and state highways cross state lines
were installed in 2014. It expects the state to install the new signage this coming spring.
Staley said the age of the existing signs means many are weathered, graffitied or otherwise in need of replacement. He said the cost of replacing 34 signs is “still being estimated” but that it will be covered from the portion of the state lodging tax allocated to marketing purposes. Respondents can pick between the above optoins.
U.S. SENATE – Senator Sheehy (R – Mont.) introduced the Strengthening Resources for Our Schools (SROs) Act to protect students, increase school safety, and empower veterans and retired law enforcement to continue serving their communities.
“Keeping the American people safe, especially young kids in school, is one of government’s most solemn duties, and that starts by empowering local communities with local solutions. The SROs Act is an America First commonsense bill that protects students and supports our veterans and retired law enforcement officers who want to
continue serving by making our schools and communities safer,” said Senator Sheehy.
“I want to thank Senator Tim Sheehy for his courage in tackling this critical issue of protecting our children. His bill creates a sustainable funding mechanism that empowers every community—large or small—to put vetted, trained, and certified school resource officers in our schools. This proactive approach ensures our most precious resource—our children—are protected, while honoring the service of our retired law enforcement and military veterans. Now is the time to act and get this bill passed,” said Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter.
“This bill is a true Montana solution: we trust our law enforcement and our veterans to protect our communities, and this legislation puts those proven protectors back in our schools to keep Montana children safe. In rural Montana, the nearest deputy can be an hour away, sometimes far more when the roads are iced over, or a blizzard rolls in. We cannot wait for help to arrive after something happens. We have to stop trouble before it starts, and that means having trained, trusted law enforcement on campus every single day.
The SROs Act removes the federal tax penalty that keeps our retired Montana peace officers and combat veterans on the sidelines, so they can step
up, protect our kids, mentor the next generation, and keep every dollar of the hard-earned retirement they sacrificed to earn,” said Representative Ryan Zinke.
Senator Sheehy’s SROs Act is co-sponsored by Senators Cynthia Lummis (R – Wyo.) and Jim Justice (R – W.Va.), and is endorsed by the Police Officers Defense Coalition, Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executives Association, Western States Sheriffs’ Association, and Montana Sheriffs & Peace Officers Association. Representatives Ryan Zinke (MT-01) and Don Davis (NC-01) are co-leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
Montana first to receive BEAD proposal approval and over 68,000 unserved and underserved areas in Montana to receive broadband coverage
News from the office of Governor Gianforte
HELENA - Governor Greg Gianforte announced on Nov. 18 that the State of Montana is one of the first of 18 states in the nation to receive approval from the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on its final proposal to deliver universal broadband access through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program.
“Expanding access to reliable, high-speed broadband and bridging the digital divide has been a top priority in Montana,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Since this historic funding became available, my administration has been dedicated to making sure Montana remains a leader to secure the resources we need to deploy broadband services to Montanans in unserved and under -
served areas.”
With today’s approval, Montana was awarded over $300 million to fund grants for 19 service providers and 32 projects to serve over 68,000 unserved and underserved Broadband Serviceable Locations.
The locations are in addition to over 180 community anchor institutions such as health service offices, high schools, police departments, fire departments, and libraries.
“Since Governor Gianforte tasked the Montana Broadband Office with bridging the digital divide for all Montanans in 2021, we have not stopped working to ensure Montana would be ready to move forward as we navigated federal regulations to get green lights. We were proud that Montana was the first state to open its BEAD application portal back on August 13, 2024, and are thrilled to again be one of the first states to receive NTIA approval to deploy BEAD funding,” said Department of Administration Director Misty Ann Giles. “This long but critical process to connect our unserved and underserved Montanans has been worth it, and we are excited to get to work.”
In June, NTIA issued the BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice and
instituted the Benefit of the Bargain reforms, which removed extralegal regulatory burdens and implemented critical reforms to lower costs, speed up deployment, and ensure all technology solutions were considered.
“We are delivering the Benefit of the Bargain through the BEAD program that best serves the interests of the American people,” said U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick. “After stripping away burdensome rules and regulations and wasteful requirements, taxpayers will save billions in unnecessary costs while connecting those in need to high-speed broadband through the full spectrum of broadband technologies.”
Expanding access to reliable broadband is a central element of Gov. Gianforte’s Montana Comeback Plan.
When NTIA announced the BEAD program in 2022, Gov. Gianforte was one of the first governors in the nation to issue a letter of intent to apply for the planning grant, allowing the Department of Administration to move quickly and apply to secure the resources necessary to deliver broadband to Montanans in unserved and underserved communities.
It’s that time of year again. Although “that time” should really be all times and every day, 24/7.
I’m referring to gratitude.
quite literally, saved my life.
The Thanksgiving holiday brings us to the topic of gratitude each year. I think that’s a really good thing, but I also believe gratitude is bigger than just one day. It’s a daily choice. It’s a lifestyle.
Jill Pertler, Syndicated columnist
Isn’t that funny? Something as simple as being thankful can save your life. I wouldn’t believe it if I hadn’t lived it out myself.
tempting, sometimes, to indulge in just a smidgen or two of self-pity, because you deserve it.
And you do. But maybe it’s truly in your best interests not to indulge.
even, perhaps the trajectory of your life.
Focusing on the positive brings about the positive. And what is gratitude if not positive thoughts?
that, and him in my life.
I am a gratitude advocate: practice an attitude of gratitude, and practice it often!
I’ve always been aware of gratitude - and it’s importance to our well-being, but it’s become even clearer to me after I experienced a great loss five years ago. Since then, gratitude has probably,
When you are at the bottom, it is so very tempting to decide that life sucks – because it does in that moment. That life isn’t fair - because it isn’t. That life is hard – because it definitely is, for everyone, not just for you, even when it feels that way. When you are at the bottom, it is so very tempting to stay there. It takes energy (and courage) to pick yourself up and take that first step forward. Oh, hell, it takes energy just to breathe at that point. And it’s
Maybe you do deserve that self-pity, but I am here to attest that the best spoonful of sugar to make the medicine go down may very well be gratitude. It heals so many things; it is practically better than aspirin.
I’m not sure how to explain it, but it works. I think maybe thinking about how everything is wrong in your life makes you focus on that. It affects your mood and your general well-being. Negativity begets negativity.
In contrast, thinking about all the things you have to be grateful for changes the focus and the line of thinking and
We all benefit from more positive thoughts in our thinking. In our daily thoughts. In our life.
Let’s do this!
This year, I am grateful for so many things, but I’m going to focus on human relationships.
I am thankful for family. My kids. My grandkids. My sister. I’m also thankful for the family who is no longer walking on this physical earth. I had the most wonderful parents. I’m so thankful for that. I had an amazing husband, who loved me to pieces, and spent the last 33 years of his life doting on me. I’m so thankful to have had
I am thankful for friends. For old friends who have known me during the good times, the bad times and everything in-between. For new friends who see me for me and love me anyway. I am thankful for the laughter shared with all friends.
I am thankful for strangers who smile at me for no reason at all. I am thankful for strangers who return my smile. I am thankful when I connect with someone I don’t know - through eye contact, a smile or a simple “Good morning,” and suddenly they are no longer a stranger, but a fellow human put in my path to brighten my day; or perhaps I am the one brightening theirs.
I can only hope that is the case. I’m filled with
Curbing anti-competitive practices and reinstating mandatory Country of Origin
Labeling will do more to lower beef prices than importing more beef from Argentina. Unfortunately, ranchers have already taken another hit in a volatile market. It takes about the same per-
Walter Schweitzer, Montana Farmers Union President
centage of your paycheck to buy a pound of beef today as it did 10 years ago. Sure, the price of beef is higher, but so is everything else, including the average paycheck – thanks to inflation. There is also about the same amount of beef in our supply chain as there was 10 years because we are importing more and export-
ing less.
American consumers are buying more beef today than they did 10 years ago. Hence, beef prices reflect demand more than supply. Argentina accounts for roughly 2.1 percent of beef imports. Quadrupling imports from them will have very little impact on total beef supply. Sadly, it has already had a significant negative impact on futures prices. Instead of throwing Argentina more financial boons, forcing
monopolistic packers to play by fair market rules and reinstating mandatory Country of Origin Labeling will decrease prices. In 2024 we imported more beef than at any time in history, and, by September of 2025, we imported 30 percent more than in 2024. We also exported less beef in 2025 and are on track to exporting the lowest amount of beef this century, which has re-
see page 11
gratitude at the very prospect.
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.
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.
sulted in the largest beef trade deficit in US history. This is result of having the smallest US cow herd since 1961, caused by the repeal of Mandatory Country of Origin labeling. We have lost more than 20 percent of our family ranches since the repeal of MCOOL, causing our cattle herd and rural communities to shrink.
The Big 4 packers have been able to import more beef from countries that don’t have the same high standard of production and processing as the US cattle industry. They import this cheaper product, mix it with US beef, put a “Product of USA” label on it, and sell it at US beef prices. The Big 4 packers are cheating consumers and producers and making billions of dollars in the process.
That being said, I am not opposed to importing beef if we truthfully label it with MCOOL.
The NCBA (packer lobbyist), which has faced criticism for its
opaque funding system that outweighs the total Beef Checkoff dollars it receives, would like to suggest that MCOOL causes a huge burden on the packers and requires extra paperwork for US producers. These are both packer myths. US producers don’t have to do anything different because the burden of origin is on the imported beef. Most of the beef we import is boxes of scraps from the Big 4 packers in other countries and is delivered directly to burger plants to be processed. Most of the live animals are imported from Mexico and Canada. When we had MCOOL, these animals were branded before crossing the border with a MX or CN brand clearly identifying their origin. By law, the packers are required to completely clean their plants at least every 12 hours making it easy for them to segregate their processing by origin of the beef.
If we had MCOOL, the consumer would be able to choose the origin of the beef they buy. Truth in labeling will force the packers to lower the
prices for the foreign beef to get consumers to buy it, and because it costs the packers less to buy foreign beef that is raised and processed at a lower standard than US beef. I am confident given the choice, consumers will choose to buy the better US beef, but am also in favor of consumers having transparent choices in a fair market for ranchers.
The recently launched DOJ investigation into the packers’ anti-competitive practices is long overdue. Farmers Union has already been fighting back and filed a lawsuit over anti-competitive practices that was recently settled with the packers for more than $130 million. Forcing the packers to play by the rules will lower consumer beef prices, create a fair market, and encourage ranchers to rebuild our cattle herds.
Walter Schweitzer is president of Montana Farmers Union, which supports family farmers and ranchers through education, legislation, and cooperation. He ranches near Geyser.
Montana voters deserve honesty, not D.C.-style smear campaigns. Yet Americans for Prosperity (AFP) and the Montana Freedom Caucus (MFC) are flooding social media and mailboxes with deceptive ads that twist budget facts and attempt to discredit Republicans who are focused on practical solutions and good governance.
Montana is constitutionally required to balance its budget. The entire premise of AFP’s latest attacks – accusing Republican legislators of “deficit spending” – is blatantly false. Montanans aren’t fooled by this kind of D.C. dishonesty.
So how did AFP manufacture their
claims of “13.5%” and “17%” budget? Simple: they cherry-picked data and counted account transfers as spending. That’s like calling a savings deposit a shopping spree. If you move money between accounts or into a trust to repair infrastructure or set aside reserves for future downturns, that’s not spending – it’s responsible budgeting that helps us continue to reduce taxes like we have the last two sessions.
You don’t have to take my word for it. The National Association of State Budget Officers (NASBO) lays
from page 11
out clear standards for comparing state budgets. Their data, available at: www. nasbo.org/mainsite/resources/proposed-enacted-budgets/montana-budget, shows Montana’s spending growth ranks below the national average.
The report states “When including all appropriations bills, total spending for the biennium is $19.57 billion, a 0.7% increase over the previous biennium.” That is far below inflation and population growth. Montana is the only state in the nation without an S&P Global bond rating because we paid off all of our state debt during the 2023 legislative session.
Here’s what this really comes down to: out-of-state dark money groups like AFP are trying to import distrust, division, and dysfunction into Montana. They’re attacking conservative Republicans who prioritize fiscal responsibility over political purity. They are trying to install politicians that do what they tell them.
AFP and the Freedom Caucus don’t want to talk about facts because they’re not interested in good governance. They’re interested in controlling. They attack Republican legislators like me who refuse to follow their out-of-state script. The Freedom Caucus has already made it clear that they want to repeal homestead tax exemptions which would benefit outof-staters and increase taxes on Montana residents.
If you value transparency, fiscal integrity, and Montana solutions for Montana problems, I encourage you to call out these deceptive tactics. You can reach the AFP State Director, Jesse Ramos at 406-334-0785 or jramos@afphq.org, and AFP Deputy State Director, Henry Kriegel at 406-581-5410 or hkriegel@afphq. org. Let AFP and the Freedom Caucus know that Montana isn’t for sale.
We have a duty to build trust in government by telling the truth instead of name calling and slander on billboards, social media and mailers. That’s the only way to govern wisely and secure a better future for our kids and grandkids.
vj
News from MT Fish, Wildlife and Parks
KALISPELL — Check station results through the fourth weekend of the general rifle season show steady hunter participation and generally consistent harvest numbers across northwest Montana.
According to data collected at regional stations, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff have checked 7,148 hunters so far this season, a slight decrease from last year.
Harvest totals across major biggame species remain similar to 2024, with some shifts among deer and elk. White-tailed deer continue to make up the bulk of the harvest. Hunters have checked 576 white-tailed deer, down from 625 last year at this time. Mule deer harvest is trending below last year, with 59 mule deer checked compared to 74 in 2024. Hunters have checked 42 elk so far, slightly below the 46 recorded by this point last year.
Region-wide, 9.5 percent of hunters checked had harvested game, nearly identical to last year’s 9.6 percent. Olney currently leads the region with an 11.5 percent success rate.
Check stations provide an important index of hunter effort and harvest but represent only a sample of the total harvest across the region. Hunters are reminded that they must stop at any check station they encounter, whether or not they have harvested an animal.
The 2025 general deer and elk season runs through Nov. 30, with regional check stations open on weekends from 10 a.m. to approximately 1.5 hours after sunset. Region 1 stations are located on U.S. Highway 2 west of Kalispell, Montana Highway 83 north of Swan Lake, Highway 200 west of Thompson Falls, and Highway 93 near Olney.
Chronic Wasting Disease
Hunters play an important role
in helping Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks monitor chronic wasting disease (CWD). Testing is voluntary in most of northwest Montana, but mandatory for certain licenses near Libby, including the White-tailed Deer B License 199-20 in Hunting Districts 100, 103, and 104, and the Mule Deer Permit 103-50 in Hunting District 103.
Hunters can have animals sampled at CWD sampling stations, most FWP offices, or collect and mail samples themselves.
FWP strongly recommends obtaining a negative test result before processing or donating meat.
If the animal tests positive for CWD, FWP will advise the hunter on proper carcass and meat disposal and give instructions on how to request a replacement license.
Hunters should properly dispose of carcass waste to help prevent the spread of CWD and other diseases. Brain, spinal tissue, and other highrisk parts should be left at the kill site when possible or disposed of at a Class II landfill.
In northwest Montana, here’s how you can get your animal sampled this fall:
General Deer & Elk Season
Hunters may self-submit samples
Visit the Libby CWD Sampling Station, located at the Montana Department of Transportation shop on US Hwy 2. It will be open Saturdays, Sundays & Mondays, 10 a.m. – dusk.
Visit a game check station open on weekends
Visit the Region 1 office in Kalispell (490 N. Meridian) during business hours, Monday–Friday.
Learn more about CWD at: fwp. mt.gov/conservation/chronic-wasting-disease/ Northwest Montana (Region 1)
Hunting Season Reminders
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has released proposals for 2026/2027 hunting regulations for public com-
ment through Nov. 23. These proposals will ultimately go to the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission for a final decision at its meeting Dec. 4. To view the proposals and comment, visit: fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission/december-2025-meeting. All hunters planning to access the Flathead Ridge Ranch Block Management Area off U.S. Highway 2 West between Kalispell and Libby must obtain a free permission card for the season. The permission card must be displayed from the rearview mirror of every hunter’s vehicle while on the property. Only one card per vehicle is required but each hunter’s name within the vehicle must be on the slip. Hunters can acquire these permission cards from the FWP office in Kalispell or at sign-in boxes throughout Flathead Ridge Ranch BMA. These cards serve as proof of permission to hunt on the property for the entire general season. Similar to other Block Management areas across the state, FWP will use the permission cards to track hunting pressure and gather important feedback on the hunting season.
Many private lands that were historically owned by corporate timber companies have changed ownership, and hunters should review the Block Management Program to view available public access opportunities and restrictions on private lands. Visit: fwp.mt.gov/hunt/landownerprograms/block-management Hunters should “Be Bear Aware” and properly store food and carcasses. Hunters should avoid hanging carcasses near houses or garages. Carcasses should be suspended at least 10 feet above the ground and 4 feet out from any upright support. Hunters are encouraged to carry bear spray and know how to use it. More food storage and safety information are available on the FWP website at: fwp.mt.gov/conservation/wildlife-management/bear/be-bear-aware
The content introduces early elementary students to the concepts, functions and uses of sensors
BOZEMAN — Montana educators of children in grades K-2 are invited to apply for a free Sensing for Science kit from Montana State University. The kit includes seven ready-to-go lessons with the necessary materials and is appropriate for a school or out-of-school setting. The content introduces early elementary students to the concepts, functions and uses of sensors — tools scientists use to monitor the environment and solve problems. For example, sensors such as air quality monitors, thermal and smoke detectors, and weather instruments help track environmental conditions, detect hazards
News from Carroll College
like wildfires and provide data for forecasting and public safety.
The kit activities begin with exploring the body’s natural sensors — taste, smell, sight, touch and hearing — and then connect these ideas to interacting with various kid-friendly sensor technologies. No prior experience with or understanding of sensors is required by the instructor.
The kit was created by the MSU Science Math Resource Center as part of the NSF EPSCoR project called SMART FIRES, an acronym for Sensors, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence in Real-Time Fire Science. Interested educators are invited learn more and apply at: www. mtnsfepscor.org/educator-resources. The application deadline is Monday, Dec. 8.
Questions may be directed to Suzi Taylor, director of the MSU Science Math Resource Center, at 406994-2336 or taylor@ montana.edu.
HELENA — Carroll College has announced a significant tuition reduction for its Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program, lowering the total tuition cost to $55,000. The new tuition structure reflects a more than 18 percent decrease, reducing student expenses by over $12,000 across the 15-month program. This meaningful adjustment strengthens Carroll’s commitment to improving affordability, expanding access, and preparing more qualified nurses to meet the region’s growing healthcare needs.
This tuition adjustment is the latest step in Carroll’s ongoing effort to expand access to nursing education at a time when communities
across Montana and the region face critical workforce shortages. By lowering financial barriers and maintaining the program’s accelerated 15-month timeline, Carroll is creating a more affordable and efficient pathway for students to enter the profession.
“This tuition reduction directly supports our priority of expanding access to a Carroll nursing education by lowering financial barriers for students who are ready to enter a profession that is vital to the future of healthcare. By enabling students to complete their BSN in just 15 months and enter the workforce sooner, the change enhances both the immediate affordability and the long-term value of the Accelerated BSN program. This adjustment reflects our continued commitment to supporting students, strengthening the nursing workforce, and meeting the needs of the com-
College
munities we serve,” said Lauren Swant, DNP, MSN, RNC-NIC, CNE, CPHQ, Associate Professor of Nursing, Director of Nursing, and Department Chair.
Carroll’s Accelerated Nursing program provides a rigorous, fastpaced route to a BSN that blends the college’s liberal arts foundation with extensive handson learning, including training in the E. L. Wiegand Nursing Simulation Center. With its reduced tuition and recently broadened eligibility to include applicants with associate degrees, the program now offers one of the most accessible and inclusive accelerated nursing pathways in the region.
These updates build on Carroll’s longstanding commitment to preparing compassionate, practice-ready nurses grounded in academic excellence, ethical leadership, and service to the common good.
Applications are now being accepted for the May 2026 ABSN cohort. For details about admission requirements and how to apply, visit: www.carroll.edu/ accelerated-nursing.
New vision opens doors for traditional, transfer, expanded and graduate students while reinforcing the Catholic mission and supporting Montana’s workforce
stages of life, including adult learners, working professionals, degree-completing individuals, and career changers, through flexible and career-aligned programs delivered online and in hybrid formats. This expansion will reinforce and enhance Carroll’s traditional on-campus programs, create new pathways for transfer students and keep the hallmarks of a Catholic liberal arts education vibrant and strong.
Physician Assistant program. These programs, along with new offerings, will provide accessible and outcomes-focused education that prepares students to respond creatively and ethically to evolving challenges. It will also create graduate opportunities for Carroll alumni to continue advancing their careers and earning additional degrees, keeping the college a trusted resource for professional growth.
HELENA — Carroll College is charting an ambitious new course with a transformative strategy to strengthen its traditional on-campus experience, expand its online and hybrid programs, and serve learners at every stage of life. This direction will create new pathways for transfer students, broaden graduate opportunities for new students and alumni advancing their careers, and deepen partnerships that support the workforce needs of Helena, Montana, and the surrounding region, all while upholding Carroll’s Catholic mission and commitment to academic excellence.
Over the past several months, the Board of Trustees worked with campus leaders and advisors to define a clear vision that builds on the college’s strengths and sets priorities for growth. The plan is shaped by community input and designed to serve students and partners across Montana and beyond.
Expanding Access and Strengthening Tradition
Carroll will broaden its capacity to serve learners at different
“This is an exciting new direction that will complement our traditional programs and extend Carroll’s formative education to learners we have not been able to serve fully in the past,” said Bishop Austin Vetter, Co-President of Carroll College. “I am thrilled that we will be able to reach more students and share our Catholic values.”
“We are aiming to meet learners where they are, on campus, online, and in graduate pathways, while preserving what makes Carroll exceptional,” added Dr. Jennifer Glowienka, Co-President. “By pairing flexible formats with quality academics and personalized support, we will open doors to serve more students and ensure Carroll thrives for generations to come.”
Building on Momentum
This direction builds on successful initiatives already underway, including the Master of Social Work program, the 15-month Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing track, the Certificate in Financial Planning, our hybrid cybersecurity program, and the developing
Carroll’s expansion will strengthen the local community of Helena and the state of Montana by preparing graduates for in-demand careers, deepening partnerships with regional employers, and creating flexible pathways that help Montanans advance without leaving the state. These efforts will support workforce development, contribute to the regional economy, and help keep talent rooted in Montana communities.
“This direction offers a clear sense of purpose, rooted in Carroll’s mission, while opening new pathways for growth, innovation, and access,” said Dr. Joyce Stewart, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “It provides the framework for our next strategic plan and positions Carroll to serve learners, our community, and the common good well into the future.”
As Carroll embraces this new chapter, the college remains steadfast in its commitment to faith, academic excellence, and service, educating ethical leaders who engage the world with purpose and hope.
News from The Montana Historical Society
HELENA — The Montana Historical Society (MTHS) announced today that its ambitious $60 million fundraising campaign for the Montana Heritage Center has been successfully completed, thanks to a generous $165,000 gift from the Oakland Family Foundation of Great Falls. The state-of-the-art facility in Helena will open to the public on December 3 with free admission.
After MTHS announced in July that it had reached $59 million of its $60 million goal and launched a public appeal for the final $1 million, Montanans and supporters from beyond the state responded with overwhelming generosity. The grassroots effort narrowed the gap to just $165,000, at which point the Oakland Family Foundation stepped forward with the campaign’s closing gift.
“The Montana Heritage Center represents the culmination of a 20-year vision to give Montana’s extraordinary stories the home they deserve,” said Molly Kruckenberg, director of the Montana Historical Society. “Reaching this milestone is a testament to the more than 1,300 donors from around the world who believe in preserving and
sharing our state’s rich heritage. We are deeply grateful to the Oakland Family Foundation for helping us cross the finish line, and we cannot wait to welcome the public to explore these new exhibits.”
The Oakland Family Foundation, a private foundation that supports educational programs throughout Montana, saw the Heritage Center as an investment in the state’s future.
“Montana’s history belongs to all of us and ensuring that future generations can learn from and be inspired by these stories is essential,” said Ashley Whitney of the Oakland Family Foundation. “We are honored to play a part in bringing this transformational project to completion.”
The $107 million Montana Heritage Center project was made possible through a distinctive funding partnership:
• $60 million in private donations and grants:
More than 1,300 individual donors, foundations, and corporations contributed to the campaign. Major contributors include the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation ($25 million), Norm Asbjornson ($10.4 million), and BNSF Railway ($5 million).
• $41 million in state funds: These funds were largely appropriated from the State Lodging Facility Use Tax—commonly
known as Montana’s accommodation or bed tax—which is collected from visitors who stay in hotels and lodging facilities around the state.
• $5.5 million from 2007 state bonds: An
earlier appropriation supported site planning and preparation work. Notably, no property tax dollars were used to fund the facility or its exhibits, making this a project supported primarily by pri-
Our very own 4-year-old Pink Lady who’s ready to ride off into her forever home like she’s got Grease Lightning under her paws! She’s talkative (seriously, girl could out-sing Summer Nights), outgoing, and dramatic in the best way possible. If you ever wanted a sassy sidekick who will tell you ALL about her day, Sandra’s your cat. She’s hopelessly devoted... to you! Come meet her and let this love story begin!
vate generosity and taxes paid by Montana’s visitors.
The Montana Heritage Center will feature three museum galleries, a library and archives research center, a café, a gift shop, an interpretive trail, and rent-
able event spaces. Visitors will experience Montana’s past through innovative, interactive multimedia exhibits designed to engage audiences of all ages.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony and press conference will take place on Dec. 2 at 3 p.m., featuring remarks from Montana
Governor Greg Gianforte, major donors Dennis Washington and Norm Asbjornson, MTHS Director Molly Kruckenberg, and MTHS Board President Tim Fox. The event is free and open to the public.
Regular public hours begin Dec. 3, and admission is free to all visitors.
For more information about the Montana Heritage Center, visit: mths. mt.gov or email: mths@ mt.gov.
Polson
News from Pete Mangels for the Valley Journal
POLSON — Leftover turkey is better than no leftover turkey. Be thankful for those little things that have been good for you. The Christmas season is well underway. Do not let commercialism get in your way.
Dec. 7 is Pearl Harbor Day, in remembrance of an Imperialistic Japan surprise attack on U.S. forces in Hawaii. The attack was the beginning of America’s entry into World War II. An unknown source has written that “the price of freedom is eternal vigilance.” Keep awake, America. Stay Awake. Stay woken to the threats to our liberty.
Activities: We will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27, and Friday, Nov. 28.
Bingo: Fridays in November at 6 p.m.; except for Nov. 28. First Wednesday of each month only is “playing card” elimination style bingo at 6 p.m.
Pinochle: Thursdays (standard) and Mondays (no pass) 12 p.m.-3 p.m.
Pool: open table from 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
Sign up for toenail clinic at the center. Call for a reservation. $30
Spinning Wheelers: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month. 11-1p. 208520-1013.
VSO (Veterans Service
Officer:) first Friday and third Tuesday of each month. 10 a.m.-noon
Walk-in OK.
Bridge and Mahjong groups meet regularly at the center.
Bowling: fun-league is on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. at the Sportspage Bowl.
Exercise class: (sitting, standing and low impact video assisted) M-W-F 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Menu (subject to substitutions): Meals at the senior center are $5 if you qualify; $10 if you do not. MASTS forms must be on file in order receive a reduced price.
Meals are served from 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Monday-Friday. Individuals who are under 60 years old and/or do not have a MASTS form on file are charged $10 per meal.
Wednesday, Nov. 26: hamburger gravy over mashed potatoes, peas, slaw, mandarin oranges, dump cake
Thursday, Nov. 27: CLOSED
Friday, Nov. 28: CLOSED
Monday, Dec. 1: split pea/ham soup, one-half tuna salad sandwich, 5-cup salad, pumpkin cookie
Tuesday, Dec 2: lasagna, garlic bread, green salad, corn, peaches, orange cake
Wednesday, Dec. 3: tater-tot casserole, green beans, roll, mandarin oranges, butterscotch pudding
Thursday, Dec. 4: hot turkey sandwich, mixed
veggies, cranberry salad, lemon bars
Friday, Dec. 5: pizza with pepperoni and pineapple, green salad, mixed veggies, pears, cookies
Our Polson Senior Citizens Community Center provides space for groups to meet for physical and mental health, social and educational purposes. Our center is available for reserved special events on weekends and evenings. Call us.
We are open 8 am.–3 p.m. on weekdays, or later by appointment. Contact us at 406-883-4735; 504 3rd Ave. E; email: polsonseniorcenter@gmail.com; visit us on Facebook.
By Theresa Yares for the Valley Journal
ST. IGNATIUS -
Because Montana is a northern state, it receives less direct sunlight during the winter months, from September to May. We have more cloudy and snowy days, reducing our exposure to the sun’s rays. Because of less direct sunlight, we may not get sufficient vitamin D. Good food sources of Vitamin D are salmon, tuna, mackerel, egg yolks, and foods fortified with vitamin D, such as milk, yogurt, and breakfast cereal. Check with your doctor about taking a Vitamin D supplement.
We are collecting coats, hats, gloves for the
children at St. Ignatius School. There is a drop off box at the St. Ignatius Senior Center.
The next bingo date is Dec. 13.
On Friday, Nov. 28, the St. Ignatius Senior Center will be closed.
Menu:
Tuesday, Dec. 2: tater tot casserole, mixed vegetables, Mandarin oranges, wheat bread, brownies Wednesday, Dec. 3: pulled pork, baked beans, pears, coleslaw, dessert Friday, Dec. 5: burritos, French fries, pineapple, carrot sticks, carrot cake
Everyone is welcome at our meals (young and old). Come enjoy a delicious meal and good conversation. If you would like a takeout meal, call 406-745-4462 by 10 a.m. on Tuesday and Friday and by 2 p.m. on first and third Wednesday. Times of meals are at noon on Tuesday and Friday and at 5:30 p.m. on the first and third Wednesdays. Menus for the month are available in the entryway of the St. Ignatius Center.
Our St. Ignatius Senior Center is available for rent. If interested, call 406-745-4462 or stop by. If you have questions about obtaining Elder Commodities, call or stop by for information and application.
Gentle Yoga is on Wednesday 1 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. If you are interested, call Bonnie Kiser at 406253-0177. Her rate is five sessions for $65.
WARM SPRINGS - The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) today announced the launch of the annual Gifts with a Lift program, now in its 73rd year. This program, which is jointly coordinated with the National Alliance for Mental Illness-MT (NAMI-MT), ensures every patient at the Montana State Hospital (MSH) receives a gift this holiday season.
Gifts with a Lift relies exclusively on the generous support of Montanans across the state and is deeply appreciated by the patients it serves.
“Each year, the MSH Gifts with a Lift program helps brighten the holiday season for those who are away from family, friends, and their communities,” said Sherry Spear, Gifts with a Lift coordinator. “Thanks to the generosity of our neighbors, the program continues to be a great success year after year. The staff and patients at MSH cannot express enough how grateful we are for the kindheartedness of the people of our great state.”
MSH is Montana’s only publicly operated inpatient psychiatric hospital, providing treatment to adults with serious mental illnesses.
Gifts must be dropped off or mailed by Dec. 8 to ensure they arrive in time for the holidays. MSH is especially in need of new winter coats for men and women in sizes M–3X (larger sizes are preferred; please exclude hoodies). Other gift suggestions include pocket games/books, socks, T-shirts/sweatshirts, cards, winter wear (such as hats, gloves, and jackets), magazines, slippers, blankets/throws, handheld AM/FM radios, and stationery.
Gifts mailed to the hospital should not be wrapped. To properly acknowledge all gracious donors, please be sure to include a return receipt along with your name and address with the gift.
Gifts or cash donations (checks payable to “Gifts with a Lift”) can be mailed to: Gifts with a Lift, c/o Sherry Spear, PO Box 300, Montana State Hospital, Warm Springs, MT 59756.
Individuals or service organizations interested in “adopting” a patient are encouraged to contact Spear at 406-693-7296.
In Missoula contact Shawn Gray to coordinate pick up of donations, by calling 406-880-3173.
*All donations in Missoula must be received by Dec. 6.
YORK, PENNSYL -
VANIA - On Nov. 10, 2025, Jens Harry “Butch” Mikkelsen of York, Pennsylvania, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior.
completed the family. He attended Ronan Schools from grade school through high school. Following his education, Butch was drafted into the Army, where he served as a helicopter mechanic during two tours in the Vietnam War. He was a sergeant and also a Bronze Star recipient for his bravery during the war.
While there he worked in an aluminum plant. He said he was making fantastic money, but the pull of working on helicopters was still in his blood. He left California and went to Galveston, Texas, where he finally started working on helicopters again. These helicopters would service the offshore oil rigs.
Butch was born on April 19, 1950, in a small log house on Eisenhower St. SE in Ronan, to Jens and Eleanor (Gainan) Mikkelsen. He joined older sisters Shirley and Janie. Four years later his baby sister Mary Lou was born and
After returning home, Butch took a job at Plum Creek Lumber Co. in Pablo. He met many good friends while working at the mill. Then in 1978, he wanted to return to his true love of working on helicopters. He relocated to Helena, to pursue further aviation training in college. He finished college in 1980 and moved to California to pursue his career.
Eventually he moved back to Missoula and worked at Minute Man Aviation. While there he joined the Army Reserves and became a weekend warrior. Once again, he was serving his country. Butch was blessed during this time with his two daughters Adena, in 1975 and Casey, in 1983.
In 2003 he met and married his current wife, Ann, in Cov -
ington, Kentucky and they began their many adventures together. They spent four years living in Germany and were able to tour eight European countries during that time. They even celebrated their third anniversary on top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Butch especially loved visiting Denmark, his family’s “Motherland.”
Butch bought a few acres in York, Pennsylvania, where he raised horses and gardened. He stayed actively working on helicopters and fixed wing aircraft during this time. He worked in Iraq and Afghanistan for private military contractors on various Army bases. About three years ago, he decided to stay state side and was blessed to find an aviation job
at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland and was still working there at the time of his death.
About ten years ago he started coming home to Montana for opening day of elk hunting season, to take his grandson Cole hunting and be with his brother-in-law Bill Cordis and many nieces and nephews. He looked forward to this yearly trip and was here again this year.
Every morning, Butch would enjoy his coffee while reading his bible, then would go out and feed his horses, cats, and wild birds. He was loving and giving, a faithful tither and with the blessings he received from God, he found great joy in helping others. He was preceded
in death by his parents, Jens and Eleanor Mikkelsen; his sister, Mary Lou (Mikkelsen) LaDue; and brotherin-law, William (Bill) Cordis.
Butch is survived by his wife, Ann; daughters, Adena Mikkelsen of Salem, Oregon, and Casey (Tim) Kelly, along with grandson, Cole Seward, of Thompson Falls; his sisters, Shirley Cordis of St. Ignatius, and Janie (Don) Bauer of Ronan; along with many beloved nieces and nephews.
A visitation for Butch will be held on Friday, Nov. 21, 2025, from 1-3 p.m. in the Shrider Funeral Home, 419 Round Butte Rd. Interment will follow with full Military Honors at the Ronan Cemetery.
Community Dinners held
POLSON/PABLO/ ARLEE/DIXON -
CSKT’s SNAP response is for Tribal Health to hold Community Dinners at CSKT Polson Tribal Senior Center; Two Eagle River School; Tribal Health Arlee Community Center; and Dixon Anita Matt Building from 6-7 p.m.
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 from 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.
Library to close early
POLSON - The Polson Library will close at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 26.
Polson Community Thanksgiving Dinner held
POLSON - The 2025 Polson Community Thanksgiving Dinner offers a delicious free dinner for pick up or delivery on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 27, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. This dinner is supported by Mission Valley Elks Lodge #1695, 512 Main Street. Please call or text your order for pickup or delivery to 406-249-2067. Orders will be accepted until 10 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 26.
Join Ronan Thanksgiving Dinner
RONAN -The Ronan Boys and Girls Club,
62579 US Hwy. 93, will be the site for this year’s Thanksgiving Dinner, served from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 27. Pre-donation may be dropped off at Ronan Valley Bank or Ronan Glacier Bank. Volunteers are needed. Call Brandy at 406-250-8808.
Free Thanksgiving Dinner, hats, gloves given in St. Ignatius
ST. IGNATIUSEnjoy a free Thanksgiving
Day Dinner drive-thru and sit-down inside meals at the St. Ignatius Senior Citizens Center and parking lot. From noon until 2 p.m. a free homecooked meal complete with turkey, ham, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, desserts and a drink, will available. Bless all in need - the elderly, the sick, with a meal to go. Call Kimimi at 406-273-8203 with your questions. Free hats and gloves will also be given away.
Fridays at 10 a.m. for 0-24 month olds.
Saturday Story Time held
POLSON - This program is held at 10 a.m. and is a repeat of the Thursday theme and is focused on 3-5 year olds. We read stories and have activities for kindergarten readiness. Theme for this week is Halloween and Narnia’s 75th Celebration.
Saturday, Nov. 29
Shop local then light tree
LAKE COUNTYSupporting your favorite local stores is more important than ever. Shop and support our local businesses, Saturday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. At 6 p.m. join community members for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.
‘The Rose Code’ discussed at library
Library closed for holiday
POLSON - The Polson Library will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27. All Thursday programs are cancelled for this day.
Friday, Nov. 28
Little ones love Mother Goose
POLSON - The Polson Library’s Mother Goose Program is held on
POLSON - Polson Library’s Bookfest Club will meet to discuss “The Rose Code” by Kate Quinn. The Bookfest Club is an adult book club. Please sign up at the front desk or call the library at 406-883-8225.
Wednesday, Dec. 3
Free meditation class offered
POLSON - Join the Mission Mountain Zen Center on Wednes-
from page 18 days for online instruction, practice and discussion via Zoom and in-person. The classes will be from 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.
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. Theme for this week is daytime/nighttime.
Learn music recording, engineering
ARLEE - The Arlee Community Development Corporation is sponsoring a series of classes on music recording and engineering, taught by musician and music educator Andre Floyd. Arlee High School students are invited to sign up for this fun, hands-on experience in learning how to make profession-
al-sounding music recordings. The classes will meet twice a month on Fridays, 9 to 11 a.m., with two sessions offered. Session one will meet from Dec. 5 through Feb. 20, and session two will be from March 6 through May 15. To sign up, call Andre at 406-890-8559.
Watch Polson Parade of Lights
POLSON - Fill Main Street to watch the festive floats from local businesses, community groups & individuals, each creatively decorated for the season, starting at 6 p.m.
Little ones love Mother Goose
POLSON - The Polson Library’s Mother Goose Program is held on Fridays at 10 a.m. for 0-24 month olds.
MV Choral Society hosts holiday concert
ST. IGNATIUSMark your calendars for the Mission Valley Choral Society Holiday Concert weekend featuring Copeland Memorial Bell Ringers with a drummer, flutist and cellist. The first concert is at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, at the St. Ignatius Mission. Director Cathy Gillhouse has selected traditional and contemporary songs from Handel’s Messiah mixed with Breath of Heaven by Amy Grant and It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year. Her international selections include Cold December Flies Away a Catalonian carol and Pata-Pan, a French Burgundian carol. The concerts are free and welcoming
to all. A free-will offering will be taken to help the choir with music expense. For information contact 406-261-3304 or 406260-6103 or go to the MVCS website: missionvalleychoralsociety.org or their Facebook page.
POLSON - Good Shepherd Church will hold their Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Purchase handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, musthave items, and gifts along with cookies and treats.
Saturday Story Time held
POLSON - This program is held at 10 a.m. and is a repeat of the Thursday
theme and is focused on 3-5 year olds. We read stories and have activities for kindergarten readiness. Theme for this week is daytime/nighttime.
St. Ignatius holds Christmas Festival
ST. IGNATIUSFrom 5- 8 p.m. at Good Old Days Park enjoy a chili feed, raffle, sugar shack, live reindeer and a tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. This festival will also include face painting, a craft fair, free Santa pictures courtesy of Valley Banks, and a parade of lights at 6 p.m. There will be a caroling trailer for all ... line up at the Good Old Days Park.
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.
Happy Thanksgiving!
We are extremely grateful for our loyal readers and advertisers. Thank you for supporting Your Homegrown Newspaper for the past 21 years! It is an honor to serve you.
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Help wanted
PHARMACIST / RELIEF
PHARMACIST (Various Locations)
TRIBAL HEALTH
DEPARTMENT Successful applicant must
have a minimum of a bachelor’s of science degree in Pharmacy. Must maintain proper licensure/certification and registration. Must possess a valid driver’s license. All applicants must submit a Tribal application. A copy of academic transcript/training, certificates, or licensures. A completed supplemental background questionnaire (contact the CSKT Personnel Department), copy of valid driver’s license, if applicable, proof of enrollment in a federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN IMMEDIATE DISQUALIFICATION DURING THE SCREENING PROCESS. Salary is $57.76 - $66.57 per hour, may be employed under a contract. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) months probationary period. To apply, contact the Tribal Personnel Office at (406) 675-2700, ext. 1040 or personnel@cskt.org Tribal applications and full advertisement are available online at www.csktribes.
org. Closing date is Monday, December 1, 2025 @ 5:30 p.m.(MST) CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.
HIGHWAY COORDINATOR ROADS PROGRAM/DEWR KH OFFICE – RONAN, MT DIVISION OF ENGINEERING & WATER RESOURCES
NATURAL RESOURCES
DEPARTMENT
The Highway Coordinator is a professional, full-time position responsible for coordinating and managing Tribal involvement, facilitating the planning, development, operations, maintenance and construction in highway projects as identified in the Memorandum of Understanding between the Tribes and the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT). This includes Project Specific Agreements (PSA) that have been negotiated be-
tween the Tribes and MDOT. The Highway Coordinator will provide assistance to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Natural Resources Department’s Division of Engineering and Water Resources - Roads Program in the role of Tribal Corridor Construction Administrator. Successful applicant must have a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Engineering or closely related field and five (5) years of professional experience, most of which must be in the maintenance, management, planning, design, and construction of highways; required to have an administrative and project management experience in the construction of highways and appurtenant facilities. Professional knowledge of theories, principles, practices and techniques of engineering to plan, design and construct highways and bridge; in addition to program budgeting, planning and management. Possession of a valid 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). Required to obtain and maintain additional certification as necessary for various Roads or other Program projects. 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 driver’s license, if applicable, please submit proof of enrollment from a Federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT, must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range is $27.34 to $31.43 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 Scott Johnston - 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 Monday, December 15, 2025 at 5:30 pm.
CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.
CUSTODIAN - (2 OR MORE POSITIONS AVAILABLE) FACILITIES & MAINTENANCE
- PABLO, MT
This position is an integral part of the Facilities & Maintenance Department and consists of work to provide technical and skilled custodial, grounds, and maintenance functions in and around CSKT Facilities’ offices, buildings, and surrounding areas. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean, sanitary and safe environment throughout assigned Tribal Facilities. The successful applicant must possess a valid driver’s license with no alcohol related convictions for the last three (3) years. Must be able to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License if requested. One (1) to two (2) years’ experience in cleaning chemicals and their proper uses, with ability to obtain professional/commercial experience through three (3) months of training. One (1) to two (2) years’ experience in the operation of specialized equipment. Knowledge in effective cleaning and sanitizing techniques. Knowledge in basic carpentry, plumbing, and electrical. Skilled in the mixing of cleaning chemicals. Skilled in the handling of hazardous waste. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL OF THE INFORMATION BELOW 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), copy of relevant transcripts and/or certificates, copy of valid driver’s license,
if applicable, please submit proof of enrollment from a Federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by the Tribes, must pass a pre-hire drug test and serve a six (6) month probationary period. Salary is $13.44 to $15.45 per hour (Including Benefits: Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Retirement, Long-term Disability, and PTO & Paid Holidays). To apply, contact Tribal Personnel at (406)6752700 Ext. 1040. Tribal Employment Applications are also available online at cskt.org/ personnel. Closing date will be Monday, December 1, 2025 at 5:30pm.
CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.
CIVIL ENGINEER TECHNICIAN ROADS PROGRAM/DEWR KH OFFICE – RONAN, MT DIVISION OF ENGINEERING & WATER RESOURCES NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT
The Civil Engineer Technician position is a full-time specialized technical position, with responsibilities and duties associated with the computeraided design work and construction monitoring of road construction projects for the Tribal Roads Program. Successful applicant is required to
cont’d from pg. 21
have an Associate’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology or related field OR two (2) years of increasingly responsible work in engineering design, planning, maintenance or management, or equivalent formal training beyond an Associate’s degree in one of these areas. Must have a high degree of skill in organizing and analyzing data; interpreting maps, plats aerial photography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS); and in drafting technical documents including plans, maps and reports, as well as the operation of CADD or other software. Possession of a valid 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, 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 driver’s license, if applicable, please submit proof of enrollment from a Federally recognized Tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is not a Testing Designated Position(TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass a pre-hire drug test
and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range is $21.36 to $24.55 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 Scott Johnston - 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 Monday, December 15, 2025 at 5:30 pm. CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.
DIVISION OF ENGINEERING & WATER RESOURCES (DEWR) KH OFFICE - RONAN, MT NATURAL RESOURCES
DEPARTMENT
Are you a skilled GIS professional who thrives in a collaborative environment where your geospatial skills can make a difference?
The Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes are searching for a GIS Analyst to join our innovative and purpose-driven team. Make a meaningful impact in our community - learn more and apply at cskt.org/personnel. The GIS Analyst is a full-time, highly technical, professional- level position working in the Tribes’ Natural Resources Department in the Division of Engineering and Water Resources (DEWR). The successful applicant will serve as the primary geospatial analyst and GIS resource for the Division, and will work within the Information Technology Services and Support Group under the direct supervision of the Division Manager. The successful applicant must possess a Master’s of Arts or Master’s of Science with three (3) years of relevant professional-level experience or Bachelor’s of Arts or Bachelor’s of Science with a minimum of five (5) years of relevant professional- level experience. Education must be in the field of GIS and Geospatial Analysis, Geography,
Forestry, Water Resources, or a closely related Natural Resources field. Exposure and emphasis on water resources is preferred. Education and experience must demonstrate focus on GIS and Geospatial Analysis, analytical aptitude, and ability to work interactively in a team setting. Must be able to work 40 hours a week, with additional time and evenings and/or weekends when necessary. Requires prolonged sitting, some bending, lifting, and stooping at times. Must have a valid State driver’s license with the ability to secure a current State of 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) and a dependable vehicle for transportation on and off job duty station. Is required to wear CSKT safety apparel as necessary. Required to successfully complete a certified defensive driving course approved by the Department. 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 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 $24.02$27.61 per hour (Including Comprehensive Benefits: Health and Life Insurance, Retirement, Long-term Disability, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, and an energizing work environment). To apply, contact Personnel at 406/675-2700 Ext. 1040. Tribal Employment Applications are also available online at cskt.org/personnel. This position will close on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 5:30pm.
PLEASE CONTACT US FOR
MORE INFORMATION:
Casey Ryan, Division Manager-DEWR at 406/675-2700 Ext. 6207, or Email: casey. ryan@cskt.org. INTERESTED AND QUALIFIED APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY!
CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER.
INFORMATION AND EDUCATION PROGRAM MANAGER
DIVISION OF ENGINEERING & WATER RESOURCES (DEWR) COMPLEX RONAN, MT - NATURAL RESOURCES DEPARTMENT
Are you a skilled communicator with a passion for outreach and education?
The Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes are searching for an Information and Education Program Manager to join our innovative and collaborative team. Make a meaningful impact in our community - learn more and apply at cskt.org/personnel.
The Information and Education Program Manager is a full-time, professional-level position working in the Tribes’ Natural Resources Department within the Division of Engineering and Water Resources. This position reports directly to the Division Manager for Engineering & Water Resources. The Program Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing comprehensive information and educational programs that promote the Division’s mission, projects, and initiatives. Other duties as assigned will include working with the Division Manager and/or Department Head on specific public information, education, or involvement tasks.
The successful applicant must possess an undergraduate
(From puzzles on page 20)
Word Search Answers
degree in communications, journalism, education, engineering, or a natural resource management field, with a minimum of three (3) years of combined experience in these fields. A graduate degree is preferred and would count towards two of these years’ experience; must have a strong understanding of media operations and public relations best practices, along with superior skills in written and oral communication, developing news releases, feature and human-interest stories, radio and television announcements and organizing and facilitating public meetings. Basic knowledge of relevant Tribal, Federal, and State regulations and laws, and of Tribal cultures and traditions preferred. Must have a valid driver’s license. Required to successfully complete a certified defensive driving course approved by the Department. Must wear Tribal Government identification and safety apparel when 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 Trib-
al Employment Application), copies of relevant academic transcripts and/or certificates, copy of valid driver’s license, if applicable, please submit proof of Enrollment from a Federally recognized tribe if other than CSKT, and if claiming Veteran’s preference, a copy of DD214 must be submitted. This position is not a Testing Designated Position (TDP) within the definition of the CSKT Drug Testing policy. The successful applicant, if not already employed by CSKT must pass pre-hire drug test and serve a mandatory six (6) month probationary period. Salary range is $31.72 - $36.46 per hour (Including Benefits: Health and Life Insurance, Retirement, Long-term Disability, and PTO & Paid Holidays, and a collaborative team environment). To apply, contact Personnel at 406/675-2700
Ext. 1040. Tribal Employment Applications are also available online at cskt.org/personnel. This position will close on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 5:30pm. PLEASE CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION: Casey Ryan, Compact Program Officer at 406-675-2700 Ext. 6207, or Email:casey. ryan@cskt.org
INTERESTED AND QUALIFIED APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY! CSKT IS A TRIBAL MEMBER PREFERENCE EMPLOYER. PART TIME ASSISTANT TO THE CLERK sought by City of Ronan, MT. Accepting applications for a part time position, until position is filled. Wage DOE. Vacation and sick leave benefits. Must be skilled in general office practices and procedures and the operation of office equipment. Experience in government accounting and Black Mountain Software a plus. Obtain application at
Ronan City Hall, 207 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864. Or request by e-mail: clerk@ cityofronan.org
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.
The Board of Trustees of School District No. 30, Lake County, Ronan, Montana is calling for bids for the Ronan High School Front Entry Project. The bid will be for the construction of a new front entry with some existing structure. There will be a walk-through for contractors wishing to examine the project on December 1, 2025 at 1:00 pm. If you have questions please contact Kevin Kenelty, Principal of Ronan High School, at 676-3390 ext.7501 or email at kevin.kenelty@ ronan- k12.edu
Bids must be received by December 8, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. at the District Administration Office at 421 Andrew NW, Ronan, MT. Bids should be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Ronan High School Front Entry Project.”
A bid bond in the amount of 10% of the bid amount must accompany all bids, per MCA 18-1-202. This bid bond will be returned to the unsuccessful bidders when the bid is awarded.
Bids will be opened at the Ronan School District Administrative Office at 4:05 p.m. on December 8, 2025 and will be presented at the regular board meeting scheduled for 7:00 pm.
The Board of Trustees reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to waive irregularities, to evaluate the bids submitted and to accept the proposal which best serves the interest of the school district.
Nov. 26 and Dec. 3, 2025 MNAXLP
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LISA PETERS BURGESS, Deceased.
CAUSE NO. DP-25-70 NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-entitled Estate. All creditors of the decedent having claims against the decedent’s estate are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this Notice or said claims will 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, must either be mailed to BRIAN MACLAY BURGESS, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, c/o FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC, 324 Main SW, Ronan, MT 59864, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.
DATED this 20th day of November, 2025.
/s/ Brian Maclay Burgess BRIAN MACLAY BURGESS, Personal Representative
Nov. 26, Dec. 3 and 10, 2025 MNAXLP
William P. Williams, IV FRENCH, GRAINEY & WILLIAMS, PLLC
324 Main SW Ronan, MT 59864
Telephone: (406) 676-4470
Attorneys for Personal Representative bill@fgwilliamslaw.com
MONTANA TWENTIETH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, LAKE COUNTY
