KLTZ/MIX-93 Local News Archive

(AP) The Montana Supreme Court says there are times when nontribal police officers have jurisdiction on Indian reservations. The court on Thursday ruled in a case involving a driver pursued by a Cut Bank police officer, first in the city and then on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.

In a four-to-one decision, the justices overturned a District Court ruling that forbade prosecutors from using evidence collected on the reservation, as part of that 1999 case. The driver was accused of operating a truck recklessly and failing to stop for the officer. The truck went off a highway on the reservation, and into a field.

Poplar Woman Charged With Negligent Vehicular Assault (Fri, Dec 28, 2001)

(AP) A drunken driver in a wreck that injured a child has pleaded guilty to a federal charge of negligent vehicular assault.

Thirty-year-old Denise Fast Horse of Poplar originally faced the more serious charge of assault with intent to commit murder.

Fast Horse was driving drunk on August 25th of 2000 when she allowed four youths to ride on the trunk of her car. Her 12-year-old nephew fell, and suffered a skull fracture.

Fast Horse appeared in U-S District Court in Great Falls Wednesday. She's scheduled for sentencing in April.

Meier To Run For Valley County Sheriff (Thu, Dec 27, 2001)

Glen Meier announced on Wednesday that he will run for sheriff on the Republican ticket in 2002.

Meier has been an investigator for the Montana Department of Livestock for almost 28 years. He has attended the Montana Law Enforcement Academy, which trains police, sheriff's deputies, game wardens and others; he has also attended numerous additional courses at the MLEA.

He was commended by Governor Racicot in 1996, when he was named outstanding employee of the state of Montana.

Meier is a native of Lewistown, living in Glasgow since 1978. He has been married for almost 21 years to Stephanie Meier, daughter of Lloyd and Alice Eide of Glasgow. In 1983 they founded Galpin Angus, which has been a purebred operation since 1985. They are members of the American Angus Association, and regularly produce award-winning breeding stock.

Meier has also been on the Fair Board for 15 years, president of the Jaycees, and serving on the boards of Nemont Manor, Independence Bank and th Valley County Farm Bureau. He is a member of North Star Lodge #46 and the Milk River Shriners.
Meier was elected public administrator in 1998. He will serve the remain year of his term and will not run again for his current office.

"Valley County is one of the most wonderful places in the world to live," Meier said. "I love this country and the people in it and I want to be of service to them."

November Uneployment Statistics Released For Montana Counties (12/26/01)

The November 2001 unemployment statistics have been released for Montana. Below is the breakdown of Valley County and the surrounding area.

November 2001 Preliminary
Not Seasonally Adjusted



                                                            
COUNTY               2000     CLF     Em-   Unem-    Rate     Ago
                     Pop.          ployed  ployed            Rate
U.S.                                                 5.3%    3.8%
MONTANA           902,195 470,767 449,772  20,995    4.5%    4.7%
Garfield            1,279   1,065   1,054      11    1.0%    3.5%
McCone              1,977   1,319   1,293      26    2.0%    2.7%
Phillips            4,601   2,554   2,458      96    3.8%    4.2%
Richland            9,667   5,587   5,415     172    3.1%    4.4%
Roosevelt          10,620   4,161   3,891     270    6.5%    7.6%
Sheridan            4,105   2,035   1,975      60    2.9%    3.3%
Valley              7,675   4,306   4,196     110    2.6%    3.9%

* For more information on other counties in Montana, visit the Department of Labor county statistics page.

Missouri River Country Opens Applications (Wed, Dec 26, 2001)

Missouri River Country has opened up applications again for cooperative marketing funds available during the fiscal year of 2001 – 2002, which started July 1, 2001. These funds will be available to nonprofit tourism-related organizations to promote an area or event. The intent of this program is to encourage the development of new or expanded marketing or advertising projects. The first round of applications have been received and evaluated. There are still monies available for projects that meet the requirements.

In the past years these monies have been used to produce and print brochures and to increase advertising outside the local community. Signage in Scobey for Pioneer Town and the Fairview events board were funded during fiscal year 2000/2001. In fiscal year 2001-2002, matching funds are available for projects in Richland, Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, McCone, Phillips, Daniels and Garfield counties as well as the Fort Peck Tribes.

For an application and guidelines, please contact Kim Lacey at the Missouri River Country tourism office, 1-800-653-1319 or write to P.O. Box 534, Glasgow, MT 59230.

Application deadline is February 15, 2002.

2002 Big Game Tentative Regulations To Be Discussed (Wed, Dec 26, 2001)

Public meetings regarding the 2002 Big Game Tentative Regulations in Region 6 will be held in three communities in northeastern Montana. Copies of the 2002 Big Game Tentative Regulations will be available for the public to pick up and review January 5th at the Glasgow and Havre area offices. Copies will also be available at the meeting sites.

If you are unable to attend any of the meetings and have a concern, direct it to the regional office. Written comments may be sent to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Attention: Big Game Tentative Regulations, Rt. 1-4210, Glasgow, MT 59230. All written comments must be received by January 18, 2002.

The meetings are set at the following locations:
City Date Location Time
Havre Jan 15 Duck Inn 7 - 9 p.m.
Malta Jan 16 First State Bank 7 - 9 p.m.
Glasgow Jan 17 Cottonwood Inn 7 - 9 p.m.

Commissioners Look To Sell More County Land (Thu, Dec 20, 2001)

The Valley County Commissioners are looking to sell another 4000 acres of county owned land this January.

Earlier this year the commissioners sold 4000 acres of land owned by the county and they look to do that again in January.

The county currently owns an estimated 40,000 acres of land and they want to have all the land sold in ten years. Those people interested in purchasing county owned land are urged to contact the commissioners by December 21st.

As of December 17th, 2700 acres of county owned that is currently leased by individuals will be sold at public auction in January.

Courthouse To Close Early Christmas Eve (Wed, Dec 19, 2001)

The Valley County Courthouse will be closing early on December 24th for the Christmas holiday.

According to the Valley County Commissioners, the courthouse will be closed from 3pm to 5pm on Christmas Eve and will be closed all day on December 25th.

Because of state law, the commissioners legally aren't allowed to close the courthouse early because Christmas Eve isn't an official holiday. They are using a legal means to get around the closing though by having District Court Judge John McKeon issue an order closing the courthouse for the two hours.

Police Department Battles Glasgow Drug Problem (Wed, Dec 19, 2001)

Glasgow Police Chief Lynn Erickson told Kltz/Klan that there is a drug problem in Glasgow and the police department is looking at several solutions to combat the problem.

At Monday's city council meeting, Erickson asked the council for permission to join the Big Muddy Drug Task Force at a cost of $2100. The task force is comprised of nine law enforcement agencies in eastern Montana including the Valley County Sheriffs Department.

Erickson said he has had complaints from the public about drug activity in Glasgow and the police department is doing what they can to combat the problem but they lack the resources for a full scale drug investigation. Erickson feels that with the help of the drug task force the drug problem can be tackled in a more effective way.

The Big Muddy Drug Task Force would start undercover operations in Glasgow that would provide the groundwork for arrests and convictions in the drug trade. Erickson stated that this would not be a cure all for the drug problem but it would be a good start. He also said a long term committment is needed to tackle the drug problem.

The Glasgow City Council did not immediately approve Erickson's request to join the Big Muddy Drug Task Force but will take it up at the January 7th city council meeting.

Commissioners Look To Combine Superintendent/Clerk & Recorder Duties To Cut Costs (Wed, Dec 19, 2001)

The Valley County Commissioners are looking at combining the Valley County Superintendent of School position with the Clerk and Recorder's office.

The commissioners told Kltz/Klan this is strictly a cost-saving measure and the savings could total $20,000 per year.

The current Superintendent of Schools is Edith Scott and her term ends December 31st of 2002. The position is currently part-time and pays $13,107 per year with a budget of $28,000.

The current Clerk and Recorder Lynne Nyquist hasn't yet said yes or no whether she approves of the consolidation and the commissioners' need her approval before making the decision. Nyquist would get a raise in salary with the added duties.

The Valley County Commissioners hope to make a final decision next week.

Council Members Attend Last Meeting (Tue, Dec 18, 2001)

Two long serving members of the Glasgow City Council presided over their last meeting Monday night. Marlene Jackson and Ed Tipton with a combined 26 years of experience will be replaced on the council by Gary Stidman and Bob West.

The first council meeting for West and Stidman is set for January 7th.

Glasgow Police Chief Lynn Erickson presented Tipton and Jackson with certificates of appreciation for their support of the Glasgow Police Department. Bob West also received a certificate of appreciation for his work on the Glasgow Police Commission.

Glasgow Recreation Director Dennis Dawson also presented a certificate of appreciation to Glasgow Mayor Willy Zeller for his support of the Recreation Department for the past ten years.

The City Council has opened up a position on the Glasgow Police Commission. Bob West has been serving on the commission but will have to leave because he was elected to the City Council. If anyone is interested in serving on the Police Commission you are urged to declare your interest at the city office.

The council also took under advisement a request from Glasgow Police Chief Lynn Erickson for permission to seek a grant that would help fight a drug problem in the City of Glasgow. Erickson told the council that he's working with the Big Muddy Drug Task Force for this grant. Glasgow would have to come up with $2100 for their share of the grant request. The council decided to wait until the January 7th meeting to decide on a course of action for the grant request.

Nashua Disbands Football Program (Mon, Dec 17, 2001)

The Nashua School Board has voted to disband the Porcupine football program and enter into a co-op agreement with the Glasgow Scotties.
Nashua had been in a co-op agreement with Frazer and Lustre Christian and had been playing 8-man football. But with declining numbers they were down to a choice of playing 6-man football or dropping the program completely. It appeared that the football program would only have nine players competing next year with 6 from Nashua, 2 from Lustre and 1 from Frazer.

The Glasgow School Board has approved the co-op agreement and both schools are now awaiting final approval from the Montana High School Association.

Block Of Bucks Raises Over $12,000 (Sun, Dec 16, 2001)

National Guard troops stood on the street corners of Glasgow again this year to collect money for the Block of Bucks program. Unlike last year, the National Guard members enjoyed temperatures in the forties. In 2000 they endured near-blizzard like conditions to collect funds needy children in the area.

The guard troops received $12,219.00 from area residents this year that went to 245 needy children. Last year, $13,563.79 was collected.

Judge Awards $3,000 In Dispute Over Big Burger Preparations (Sun, Dec 16, 2001)

(AP) In Phillips County, a justice of the peace has awarded three-thousand dollars to the former president of Hi-Line Promotions, for out-of-pocket expenses when the group was grilling a record-breaking six-thousand-pound hamburger.

Roger Ereaux, of Saco, took the fledgling Hi-Line Promotions to court, seeking reimbursement for bills he footed for the event two years ago.

Hi-Line Promotions grilled what was then the Guiness Book of World Record's largest hamburger, at the Sleeping Buffalo Resort near Saco.

The town of Seymour, Wisconsin, has since one-upped Montana with a four-ton burger.

In a related case, Hi-Line Promotions has settled with Sleeping Buffalo Incorporated, which manages the resort, for grilling expenses. Eureaux was manager of Sleeping Buffalo when he organized the event, and has since become its owner. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Local School Districts Facing Tough Times (Sun, Dec 16, 2001)

Area school districts are facing the same problems as other school districts across the state in hiring educators.

According to Glasgow Superintendent of Schools, Glenn Monson, the starting salary for a Glasgow teacher is $19,850. This low starting salary makes it very hard to attract qualified teachers to educate the youth of Glasgow. Monson notes that they have to this point been able to hire qualified teachers it will get much worse before it gets any better.

Monson told Kltz/Klan about trying to hire a special education teacher. He said he contacted every special education graduate from North Dakota and Montana and could find no interest in filling the open position.

Monson notes that money seems to be the main reason education graduates don't want to teach in Glasgow. In Montana the average starting salary is just $21,000 and the average teaching salary in Montana is $32,000. Education graduates in Montana can go to Nevada and start with a salary of $35,000 according to Monson.

A teacher in the Glasgow school system would have to spend several years before they could make that kind of money. The top salary in the Glasgow system is $42,082.

Nashua Schools are also facing the same kind of problems in attracting teachers. According to Nashua Superintendent Bruce Peterson, the starting salary in Nashua is $20,000. He told Kltz/Klan that Nashua needed to hire a music teacher this school year and received only one application for the job. Nashua was fortunate to hire a local woman to teach music but even she isn't completely certified to teach and is working on getting that certification.

Peterson also says money is the main reason why smaller schools are having trouble hiring teachers. He said Nashua is fortunate that they have a veteran teaching staff and haven't had to go out and hire many new teachers over the years. The top salary in Nashua is $37,500.

On a related note the Nashua schools are facing the possibility of making drastic cuts in the school budget for the next school year. Peterson told Kltz/Klan that because of declining enrollment Nashua will face a shortfall next year of $75,000. Nashua's total budget is an estimated one million dollars. Peterson said the Nashua school board will have to decide whether to cut $75,000 from the budget or take a look at a mill levy increase which would keep the budget the same as this year. The Nashua board will be having a public meeting in January to find out the taxpayers opinions on what should be done with the budget.

Partnership Receives One Million Dollar Grant For Wetlands And Prairie Conservation On Montana's Hi-Line (Thu, Dec 13, 2001)

On the heels of one of the driest summers on record in northern Montana, a $1 million grant promises to soon bring more water to the Hi-Line.

"This is the largest grant we’ve seen for farmers and ranchers on the Hi-Line to conserve potholes and prairie,” said Jim Stutzman, project leader for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission awarded the grant for the “Montana Hi-Line Prairie Wetland Project” in September.

The Montana Hi-Line Prairie Wetland Project seeks to protect 60,000 acres of wetlands and uplands through easements and cooperative agreements with landowners. Easements will provide direct cash payments to producers for protecting grasslands and wetlands, keeping producers on the land, a vital step in protecting wildlife habitat.

Stutzman emphasized that the Hi-Line funds will pay for easements and habitat projects, but not to acquire land. Grant funds will benefit northern Montana’s rural counties through payments to contractors to restore and enhance wetlands, install fences and other grazing improvements.

The funds, part of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), will be matched by state and federal agencies and by private conservation groups to conserve wetlands in a seven-county area across Montana’s Hi-Line from Hill County to North Dakota.

For further information about the Montana Hi-Line Prairie Wetland Project, contact Rick Northrup, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks in Malta at 406-654-1341 or Bruce Barbour with USFWS in Malta at 406-654-2863.

Heightened Alert At Border Crossing To Remain Indefinitely (Thu, Dec 13, 2001)

(AP) U-S Customs officials say the heightened alert status at Montana border crossings to Canada will continue indefinitely--maybe permanently. There are more agents and more searches.

Sweetgrass Port Director of Customs Kent Brimhall says the extra security also is in place at the other eleven points of entry along Montana's 530-mile border. He says if there is a vulnerable place and someone finds it they will exploit it and that cannot be allowed, especially at his busy Sweetgrass crossing north of Shelby.

Brimhall says inspections are much more rigorous and border crossing are now staffed 24 hours daily. He says some lawmakers in Washington D-C are looking at making the heightened border security permanent. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Wolf Point School Files Suit Over Student With Failing Grade (Wed, Dec 12, 2001)

(AP) A federal judge is being asked to referee a jurisdictional dispute, that pits the Wolf Point School District against an aspiring basketball player with a failing grade in French.

The student became ineligible to play when he flunked a French course at Wolf Point High School. But he has an order from a Fort Peck tribal judge, allowing him to play.

School district officials think otherwise. They've filed a lawsuit in U-S District Court in Billings, saying the tribal court has no jurisdiction. The school wants the tribal court blocked from any further action. It also says that if Wolf Point High School is compelled to use an academically ineligible player, the Wolves will have to forfeit every game in which he plays.

City And County Share Judge (Wed, Dec 12, 2001)

Linda Hartsock is the new City Judge for Glasgow after officials from Valley County and the City of Glasgow signed an inter-local agreement which will have her perform the duties of Valley County Justice of the Peace and City Judge.

Hartsock has served as Justice of the Peace for Valley County since her election in 1998. She will work as Justice of the Peace in the mornings and City Judge in the afternoons.

The agreement signed by the Commissioners and Mayor will have the city pay $12,431 to Valley County for City Court expenses through June of 2002.

The agreement will be up for negotiation again at the end of this fiscal year which ends on June 30th.
Hartsock will replace Lee Hagen who has been interim City Judge since the resignation earlier this year of Emery Breljie.

Four Valley County Projects Share Foundation Funding (Mon, Dec 10, 2001)

Four Valley County projects will share $2,800 in funding from the Valley County Community Foundation, Sam Waters announced this week. He chairs the grants committee for the Foundation, and added that grant recipients will be honored during the Foundation’s annual meeting, scheduled Jan. 8, 2002 at the Courthouse in Glasgow.

The following projects will receive funding:

The Valley County Historical Society, $1,000, to purchase canvas and framing for the mural backdrop on a new Lewis and Clark exhibit at the Pioneer Museum in Glasgow. This panoramic exhibit will feature the confluence of the Milk and Missouri Rivers as viewed on May 8, 1805 and include plants, wildlife and Assiniboine culture.
Opheim Public Schools Music Department, $1,000, to assist with the purchase of a new studio upright piano which is used in every day education as well as public performances, such as holiday concerts and music festivals.

Fort Peck Fine Arts Council, Inc., $400, to assist with wages for a director for the Fort Peck Fine Arts Camp scheduled for next summer. The director will be independent from the summer theatre and be responsible for outreach, curriculum, staff and overall organization for the two-week camp.

Opheim FFA, $400, to assist in the purchase of landscaping sod and building materials to create an outdoor classroom/meeting place between the high school and elementary school buildings. Ag education students have surveyed and mapped the area and will begin construction in the spring.

The Community Foundation is a steward of a community savings account, through which private assets are invested to meet the challenges of contemporary life, Waters explained. Funding for the grants comes from the endowment’s earnings. Directors consider grants in five areas: arts and culture, basic human needs, economic development, education and natural resources and conservation. Grants are awarded annually, and applications for next year’s awards will be available in the fall.

Everyone is welcome to help the Community Foundation grow, Waters added. For more information, contact him at 228-8231.

Waterfowl Hunters Waste Game (Mon, Dec 10, 2001)

The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks are looking for information leading to the arrest or conviction of the person or persons that wasted waterfowl in the area. On December 7th FWP officers discovered over 30 waterfowl carcasses had been wasted and discarded in a garbage dumpster near Fort Peck. Several of the ducks and geese had only the breast meat removed while several others were completely intact.

If you have any information please call the Fish, Wildlife and Parks headquarters in Glasgow at 228-3700 or the Tip-Mont hotline at 1-800- TIP-MONT (1-800-847-6668). You call can remain anonymous.

Post Office Looks At Mail Pick-up Changes (Sun, Dec 9, 2001)

The Glasgow Post Office is proposing a change in the way that mail is collected in the city of Glasgow.

Currently collection boxes throughout the city of Glasgow are serviced at 5 pm every Monday Friday. But Glasgow Postmaster Kita Axtman is proposing that those collection boxes be serviced by mail carriers during their normal street delivery time. Apparently the reasoning behind this proposed scheduling change is for security and safety.

The proposal would go into effect on December 29th but postal customers are encouraged to give written comments.

Those comments must be received by December 14th.

Commissioners Upset At Government Land Buying (Sun, Dec 9, 2001)

The United States Fish and Wildlife is finalizing a deal which would have them purchase 2,760 acres of private land in Valley County from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

This land, located in the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, would be purchased for the appraised value of $929,400. The sale includes the state grazing lease, water rights and improvements such as fencing and a house, which will be used for research or an administrative site.

No public hearings are required on the acquisition of inholdings by the Fish and Wildlife Service. When Congress established the refuge, it authorized such acquisitions without further public action.

The Valley County Commissioners aren't happy about the pending sale which would have the land go from private taxpaying status to federal non-taxable status.

The commissioners calculate that they will lose $1,712 annually in property taxes, which does not include improvements or taxes paid on the cattle that grazed the land.

Valley County is in the process of selling over 40,000 acres of county owned land to private groups and Commissioner Dave Reinhardt commented that "the federal government is taking land off the tax rolls faster than we can put it on."

Wildlife Federation Says Plans Are Inadequate (Fri, Dec 7, 2001)

(AP) The National Wildlife Federation says a recently released multi-state plan to conserve prairie dogs is not enough to keep the species from being listed for federal protection.

The organization says many individual state plans, including Montana's, also fail to measure up. The organization's wildlife biologist in Missoula, Sterling Miller, says the states want to avoid having prairie dogs listed as an endangered species, but the only way to do that is to take the species out of jeopardy.

The federation petitioned the U-S Fish and Wildlife Service in 1998 to list the black-tailed prairie dog because of declining populations. That agency decided last year that listing the prairie dog as threatened was warranted, but said it couldn't do it because other species have higher priority.

The black-tailed prairie dog is a key species in the prairie ecosystem because several other species depend on it for food and shelter. The multi-state plan was developed by the wildlife agencies in Montana and ten other Western and Midwestern states. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Commissioners Decide To Sell More County Land (Fri, Dec 7, 2001)

The Valley County Commissioners have decided to sell more county owned land at a public auction this coming January. These county owned lands are all currently leased by private individual. They are asking anyone currently leasing land from the county who wishes to see those tracts sold to contact the commissioners as soon as possible.

The commissioners own over 42,000 acres of land and they hope to sell all of the land over the next 10 years. Last year they sold an estimated 4000 acres and plan to sell about that much acreage this year.

The county is currently involved in a lawsuit filed by four grazing districts and the Hinsdale School Districts over the sale of the four thousand acres of county owned land last year.

That case has yet to come to trial and the presiding Judge will be District Court Judge John Warner of Havre.

Kitzenberg Named To Flemming Fellows (Thu, Dec 6, 2001)

State Senator Sam Kitzenberg was recently chosen to enter the 2002 Class of 35 Flemming Fellows selected from more than 4,000 eligible state legislators from across the nation. Kitzenberg was identified as one of Americ'‚s outstanding public leaders who is helping to maintain faith in our democratic institutions.

The Center for Policy Alternatives annual Flemming Fellows Leadership Institute trains policymakers to think and lead and to solve problems in unconventional ways, successfully working across lines of party, race, class and gender to achieve consensus.

Senator Kitzenberg joins a diverse group of state legislators who were selected for their leadership, dedication to public life and civil service, and commitment to making government a part of the solution to challenges facing our country.

"I'm looking forward to exploring ways I can more effectively serve my constituents and to learn from other legislators serving across the country," said Kitzenberg "This is a great opportunity! I am honored to have been chosen and excited to be a part of it."

The Flemming Fellows Leadership Institute, established in 1994, was created to prepare state legislators who are in their first or second term of office to be effective policymakers by helping them build problem-solving and leadership skills. The Institute was named for the late statesman Dr. Arthur Flemming, a top-level official for eight Presidents of both parties, president of four universities, and a decade-long member of the Center for Policy Alternative‚s board.

"This Fellowship is designed to help state-elected officials learn to find common ground and forge alliances to make government work," said Institute Director Renée Bianco. "Being selected as a Flemming Fellow has become a mark of prestige among state lawmakers, and has resulted in a very competitive selection process. We are very pleased to welcome Senator Kitzenberg as a Flemming Fellow."

The bipartisan class of Fellows participates in a curriculum focused on the role of government and how varied and many leadership roles help build policy consensus. The Flemming Fellows Leadership Institute, supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is organized by the Center for Policy Alternatives, a nonpartisan public policy and leadership development center serving state legislators, state policy organizations, and state grassroots leaders. Visionary leadership has never been more important as more power and authority has shifted to the states over the last two decades. Requested to bring tough questions for input, discussion and research, Senator Kitzenberg has asked to examine alternatives to successfully finance quality public education.

Senate Passes Measure Allowing Railroad Pension Investment In Private Markets (Wed, Dec 5, 2001)

(AP)The U-S Senate today passed a bill that would invest a 15 (b) billion dollar railroad retirement fund in stocks and bonds. The bill now seeks the approval of the House and President Bush.

Critics of the bill say it will increase the federal deficit and unduly put taxpayer dollars at risk.

Senator Max Baucus, who chairs the Senate Finance Committee, says he does NOT believe the bill will cause budget concerns.

Supporters say the bill would increase benefits for about one million railroad retirees and their families. It would also cut payroll taxes for companies and allow early retirement for some workers. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Fire Marshal Offers Holiday Safety Tips (Wed, Dec 5, 2001)

As the holidays approach, Montana Fire Marshal Terry Phillips and the Consumer Product Safety Commission are offering Montanans a few simple tips to make this holiday season a fire-safe one.

Each year in the United States, more than 10,000 people are treated for injuries from falls, cuts and electrical shocks related to holiday lights, decorations and Christmas trees. Christmas trees are also involved in about 400 fires annually, resulting in 20 deaths, 70 injuries and an average of more than $15 million in property loss and damage.

Live Christmas Trees When purchasing a live Christmas tree, Phillips said Montanans should look for one that's been treated with an approved flame retardant. Treated trees will have tags that state the type of flame-retardant treatment used, the name of the person who applied the flame retardant and the name of the individual affixing the tag. Each tree should be checked for dryness. Phillips recommends grasping a branch firmly and pulling, allowing the branch to slip through. If the needles fall off readily, the tree does not have adequate moisture and should not be used. Prior to setting up a tree, the trunk should have a fresh bottom cut on a diagonal at least an inch above the original cut. Support stands should be filled with hot tap water and the water level should be at least two inches above the butt of the tree. Phillips said if the water level drops below the bottom cut of the tree, the tree should be re-cut. Trees should be tested daily and the test should include the test for dryness and a check of the water level. Candles and open flames should not be used on or near a tree within a distance equal to the height of the tree.

Candles Each year there are 11,000 candle-related fires in the United States. In Montana, candles have caused three fires in Havre in three months and most recently, a Great Falls mobile home was destroyed by a fire caused by an unattended candle. At home, candles should not be left unattended. Small children should not be allowed to light candles, as it may lead to other unsupervised use of matches and lighters. Young children are often exposed to "friendly fire," like candles, fireplaces, campfires, etc., and they may not realize fire can become uncontrolled and deadly, Phillips said.

Decorations Throughout the home, decorations should be non-combustible or flame-retardant. Indoor and outdoor lights should be tested by a recognized testing laboratory - examples are Underwriters Laboratories or Factory Mutual - and conform to safety standards. Phillips said consumers should only purchase lights deemed safe by the testing facilities. Multi-plug adapters, multi-plug extension cords, cube adapters, strip plugs and other devices that do not comply with fire codes and electrical codes should also be avoided.

Fireplaces Wrapping papers should not be burned in the fireplace. Wrappings may ignite suddenly and burn intensely.

Smoke Alarms Holiday time is a good time of the year to check smoke alarms throughout the home, Phillips said, and make sure they have fresh batteries. "If you're stumped for a gift to give this season, give a 'gift of life,' " Phillips said. "A smoke alarm and a carbon monoxide detector can save lives - maybe even your own." For more information on how to keep the holidays safe, visit the websites of the Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov or the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org

School Board Faces Another Round Of Budget Cuts (Wed, Dec 5, 2001)

The Glasgow School Board is once again facing drastic budget cut because of declining enrollment.

Glasgow School Superintendent Glenn Monson told Kltz/Klan that school enrollment was down to 796 students at the end of November. This compares to 887 students in February of 2001.

Education funding from the state of Montana is calculated per student so the Glasgow School District is facing a budget deficit of an estimated $369,000 for the next budget year.

Superintendent Monson said that the school board has the option of running a mill levy to raise the funds to keep the budget the same as it is this year. If the board decides to run a levy it would be run next May. The board could also decide to cut the budget for the Glasgow School District.

Monson said that the board will see a savings of an estimated $100,000 with the closure of the South Side School. That would still require the board to cut close to $200,000 from the districts budget.

Decisions will have to be made on staffing with the possiblity of more teachers being let go because of the declining enrollment.

Controversy Brews Over Dispatch Center (12/4/01)

The Glasgow City Council met in regular session on Monday evening and the majority of the meeting was taken up by issues relating to the city's relationship with Valley County.

The main issue seems to be who's in charge of the law enforcement dispatch center in the Valley County Courthouse.

Glasgow Police Chief Lynn Erickson reported to the council that he has spoken with Valley County Sheriff Dick Wessler about having an equal say in the operations of the dispatch center. Currently the city pays 50 percent of the wages of the dispatchers plus $2400 a year for the state teletype system and roughly $2000 a year for the telephone system.This totals approximately $56,000 a year paid to Valley County.

Erickson said with this type of financial support for the dispatch center, he would like to have a say on who is hired as dispatchers and how the dispatch center is run.

Back in June, Erickson wrote a letter to the Valley County Commissioners proposing that the Glasgow Police Department pay a user fee of $25,000 year. The council agreed and started making payments of $2083.33 per month for a total of $25,000 a year compared to the $54,000 a year that they had been paying.

Marlene Erickson, Chairman of the Commission, wrote a letter back to the city enclosed with the monthly check from the city explaining that the payment was unacceptable. The city though continued making payments of just $2083.33 per month through the month of November.

On November 21st, Marlene Erickson wrote another letter to the council stating that the city is behind in payments to the tune of $10,705.66. Erickson stated that the commissioners expected payment of $10,705.66 by November 30th. If the payment was not received by then, and the user fee is not kept current, the commissioners threatened to stop dispatching for the city of Glasgow.

November 30th came and went and the city still hadn't paid the $10,705.66 but the county still kept up the dispatching services for the city.

At Monday night's council meeting a very colorful discussion occurred on whether the city should pay the county the full amount for the dispatching services. The council was adamant about the city having an equal say in how the dispatch center is run. According to Police Chief Erickson, the Valley County Commissioners and Sheriff Dick Wessler have resisted all efforts to share in the oversight of the dispatch office. Mayor Zeller commented that the city of Glasgow pays for half of the dispatch center costs, but other law enforcement agencies such as police in Fort Peck, Nashua, and Opheim pay nothing.

After much discussion the council did agree to pay the outstanding balance of $10,705.66 with the understanding that the city and county share oversight of the dispatch center. Chief Erickson was told to meet with the County Commissioners and pay the balance and get in writing an agreement for sharing of oversight. The vote on this motion was 4-1 with Alderwoman Marlene Jackson voting against paying the outstanding balance. It also seemed that there were a couple members of the city council who were willing to break from the county and run their own dispatch center.

The council is also awaiting a policy and procedures manual being written by Glasgow Police Officer Mike Sukut on how the dispatch center should be run. This manual is being written with the approval of the Sheriff and Police Chief.

On Tuesday Police Chief Lynn Erickson met with the Valley County Commissioners. Erickson said he wanted a written agreement stating that the city would have equal say in how the dispatch center is run. If there are any problems in how the center is run the problems would be worked out by the Sheriff and Police Chief. Meanwhile the city would go back to paying nearly $56,000 a year for their share of the dispatch center costs.

The Commissioners said they would have to run this by the Sheriff who is currently out of town at a coroners school. They said they wouldn't have a written agreement until sometime next week. Chief Erickson said that was okay by him and was looking forward to a positive relationship with the county in running the dispatch.

Kltz/Klan news asked the commissioners if they agreed with the proposal to have the city share in the oversight, only County Commissioner Dave Reinhardt said he had no problem with an "equal say" agreement. Commissioners Marlene Erickson and Ron Gilbertson both were non-committal on the agreement. Both said that they would discuss it at a later date with the Valley County Sheriff.

But for now the law enforcement dispatch center will continue to dispatch calls for the Glasgow Police Department.

Snowmobile Tips Released (12/4/01)

It’s that time of year when recreationists begin to tune up their snowmobiles looking for snow to enjoy a little outdoor fun. Before venturing out, snowmobilers across Montana need to be aware of legal and safety responsibilities. Below are some rules, tips and suggestions to make your venture outdoors both fun and safe.

Operation of a snowmobile on public roads, streets, or highways within the city limits is prohibited, unless authorized by a municipal ordinance. All snowmobiles must have one running headlight and one running taillight while operating.

Snowmobile operators who do not have a driver’s license must complete a Montana approved snowmobile safety education course before operating on approved plowed streets or roads this winter. Young snowmobilers also must be in the physical presence and under the supervision of an adult 18 years of age or older. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks offers a home-study course and many snowmobile clubs throughout Montana offer certification courses. Both courses are free.

All snowmobiles must display a 2001-2002 decal as visual proof of registration. All registrations and decals expire on June 30 of each year. The decal fee is $6.50. Snowmobilers who travel on public lands also must register their snowmobile with their County Treasurer and pay a fee in lieu of tax. The fee in lieu of tax assessed on snowmobiles less than four years old in $22. The fee in lieu of tax is $15 for all other snowmobiles.

Snowmobile operators are liable for all actions and must understand their limitations. Inherent risks include; rough terrain, bare spots, rocks, trees, and visibility. Operators must report any accident, collision, or personnel injury that occurs to the nearest law enforcement agency. Also, it is unlawful to operate a snowmobile:
at a speed greater then law requires for motor vehicles in a careless or reckless mannerwhile mentally or physically disabled, which includes operating under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs with intent to harass wildlife or livestock discharging any firearm from or upon any snowmobile

Snowmobile safety begins before you leave home. A good rule is to tell someone you trust where you plan on snowmobiling and your return time. You also should prepare an emergency survival kit that contains:

High energy food
Medicine and medical information about yourself
Signal devices such as flares, mirror or whistle
Matches and fire starter
Knife/ rope
Compass and map
Flashlight
Paper and pencil
First Aid supplies (bandages, 4 inch compress)
Extra clothing

The selection of proper clothing can often make or break a trip in the harsh climate. Your outside layer should be windproof and waterproof. The layer next to the skin should wick away the moisture, which helps prevent you from getting cold. Your clothing should be snug so it doesn’t get caught in the snowmobile, but it should be loose enough to permit easy movement and good blood circulation. An approved helmet helps prevent heat loss, but also is the most important piece of safety equipment you can wear.

Finally, if you are recreating in an avalanche area carry an avalanche receiver, shovel, and probe. Also, be on the alert for quickly changing weather conditions. Many snowmobilers jeopardize themselves every year. Take every precaution while venturing through these hazardous areas.

Take advantage of advanced training, planning and preparation before heading out on your snowmobile. Then you will be able to enjoy snowmobiling in the great outdoors of Montana.

Senator Wants Money Used For Highway-widening Study (12/3/01)

(AP) Montana got a one million-dollar highway grant from Congress last week, and Senator Sam Kitzenberg of Glasgow knows just what to use it for. The state Transportation Department disagrees, however.

Kitzenberg is a leading advocate of transforming U-S Two across northern Montana into a four-lane highway. He says the money should pay for a study of adding two lanes to the 43 miles of highway between Havre and Harlem. He says that's one of the worst and most heavily traveled sections of the 700-mile highway.

The deputy director of the Transportation Department, Jim Currie, says the agency does not oppose use of the grant.But, he says such a study would delay plans - possibly three years - to begin re-building a ten-mile section just east of Havre. Currie says state officials want to know what area residents want. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Nice Sunday Weather Brings Out Glasgow Residents (12/3/01)

On Candy Cane Lane, we take decorating a little serious: Todd Riggs, double-checking his strings of Christmas lights on Sunday afternoon.

The weather was beautiful on Sunday, with a high at 44°. Many Glasgow residents attended the Remembrance Tree ceremony (see story below) and many took to their yards to put the finishing touches on their Christmas decorations.

Remembrance Tree Ceremony Held (12/3/01)

The Glasgow High School and Middle School Student Councils held their annual Remembrance Tree Lighting Ceremony on Sunday.

Adam Arneson, Student Council President of GHS, welcomed the crowd to the ceremony. Reverend Marty Mock did the main address and the GHS Swing Choir followed with two songs.

Those present were invited to place a bulb on the trees when the name of their loved one who passed away was read.

Proceeds from the Remembrance Tree will benefit the Block of Bucks program.



	Remembrance Tree 2001

Special School Board Session Reviews Fall Sports (12/3/01)

The Glasgow School Board met in special session on Friday and held an activities review for football and girls basketball.

Ryan Malmin the head football coach addressed the board and gave a review of the scottie football season. One of the items discussed during the review was a perceived lack of discipline at times during football games. Malmin said that discipline will be addressed even more next year and if need be athletes will be made an example of. This year two senior football players were ejected from varsity football contests. Seth Morehouse was ejected from the last regular season game with Chinook and had to miss the first round playoff game with Fairfield. Senior Tyler Fox was ejected from the playoff game with Fairfield.

Malmin also suggested the possibility of a weight lifting class at Glasgow High School. School board member Ted McIntyre pushed the idea of a weight lifting class that would be taught by Malmin. School Superintendent Glenn Monson said that would mean changing the schedule at the high school and the district would have to hire another certified teacher. Most students already have their classes set for the next semester and all teachers have their periods filled. Board member Dennis Dawson told the other members of the board that it's time for them to make a decision on whether they want to support athletics and make the athletic program competitive or be content with the status quo.

Dawson said too many times coaches or athletic administrators come in front of the board and make requests and the board comes up with plenty of excuses on why they can't fund the program or support it.

Monson reminded the board that they are facing budget cuts of $300,000 for the next school year and adding new teachers might be something the school district can't afford at this time. The board ended up taking no action on the matter of adding a weight lifting class until more information can be obtained.

The board did hire another assistant volleyball coach. Connie Becker has been hired to be the freshman coach and joins the staff of new head coach Kathy Nielsen.

The board also heard from girls basketball coach Ryan Rebsom who announced he would not be the head coach of the scotties next year. Rebsom will instead concentrate on the boys program. The board gave a verbal commitment to Kristin Lawrence to be the head girls coach for next year. She spent this past year as the varsity assistant girls coach.

Letters To Santa Program To Debut On December Third (12/2/01)

Thanks to the efforts of Rod Karst, Glasgow-area teacher and coach,and extended staff member of KLTZ/Mix-93, the Letters To Santa program will hit the airwaves at 4:05 Monday, December 3rd on both KLTZ and Mix-93.

The program will be hosted by Karst, and will feature Christmas stories, music and of course, Letters To Santa. Karst has already received a hefty amount of mail for Santa, but submissions are still being accepted from throughout northeast Montana.

If you would like to send an letter to Santa for your children, you may either mail it to KLTZ/Mix-93 Letters To Santa, P.O. Box 671, Glasgow, Montana, 59230, fax it in at 406-228-9338 or e-mail it to us at kltz@kltz.com. Please include the word Santa in the subject of your e-mail.

The show will air on both stations at 4:05pm, Monday-Friday. It is sponsored by Prairie Ag Sales & Service of Glasgow and McDonald's of Glasgow. McDonald's will provide a free happy meal to one child who had their letter read on the air each day.

Uneployment Statistics Released For Montana Counties (12/2/01)

The October 2001 unemployment statistics have been released for Montana. Below is the breakdown of Valley County and the surrounding area.

October 2001 Preliminary
Not Seasonally Adjusted



                                                            
COUNTY             2000    CLF    Em-     Unem-     2001   2000
                   Pop.          ployed   ployed    Rate   Rate
 
U.S.                                                       5.0%     3.6%
MONTANA            902,195  471,214  452,329   18,885      4.0%     4.3%
Daniels              2,017    1,323    1,302       21      1.6%     1.8%
Garfield             1,279    1,192    1,175       17      1.4%     2.9%
McCone               1,977    1,364    1,336       28      2.1%     1.8%
Phillips             4,601    2,604    2,535       69      2.6%     3.3%
Richland             9,667    5,793    5,620      173      3.0%     4.3%
Roosevelt           10,620    4,208    3,942      266      6.3%     7.6%
Sheridan             4,105    2,081    2,038       43      2.1%     2.5%
Valley               7,675    4,395    4,269      126      2.9%     3.0%

* For more information on other counties in Montana, visit the Department of Labor county statistics page.

Healthy Eating Habits From Eat Right Montana (12/2/01)

'Tis the season when Americans eat too much, move too little, and plan to diet come January.

"Eating well and being active are even more important during the holiday frenzy," says Katie Bark, RD, registered dietitian with the Montana Team Nutrition Program. "The ABCs of good health can help you maintain your weight, reduce your stress, and survive the season with your spirit intact."

First, Aim for fitness. Physical activity is important for both "waist" management and stress management. All it takes is 30 minutes a day, at least 10 minutes at a time. Try a lunchtime walk with a friend, a few laps around the mall before shopping, or building a snowman with the kids.

Next, build a healthy base by eating breakfast every day. Eating well in the morning can provide all-day benefits.

"A balanced breakfast will energize your day and prevent overeating in the evening," says Bark. "Be sure to include a high-protein food, like yogurt, peanut butter, eggs or Canadian bacon."

Finally, choose sensibly. This means enjoying all foods without going overboard. Bark has a tip for making choices at holiday parties: Never arrive hungry. If you starve all day, you will overeat when tempted by a table full of treats. She suggests a light snack (like string cheese or a glass of low-fat milk), before you go out. When you arrive at a party, scan the table and choose a few foods you really want.

Eat Right Montana, a statewide coalition promoting healthful eating and active lifestyles, wishes all Montanans a holiday season filled with good health and good cheer - and a safe New Year.

According to Bark, a healthy lifestyle is always in season.

"Nutrition and fitness are gifts that you can give yourself. Follow the ABCs of holiday health and see how much better you feel every day."

WAYS TO DONATE FOOD AND NUTRITION The holidays are always a time for generosity and for sharing. Giving this holiday season may be more important than ever. Millions of Americans have been touched by tragedy and millions more are suffering from the economic slowdown. War and political upheaval continue to cause starvation and death, most vividly right now in Afghanistan. If you want to make a nourishing food donation this holiday season, there are ideas to fit every wish list and every pocketbook. Here are just a few of them:

PERSONALLY: The most direct way to make a nutrition donation is to invite someone to share food with you - in your home, in their home, or at a restaurant. Consider an invitation to someone with limited income, limited mobility or limited social contacts. Be a foster grandchild ~ take an older person to lunch. Offer to grocery shop for, or with, someone with a disability.

LOCALLY: Some local charities have reported drops in donations since September 11. Remember local food banks, food pantries or soup kitchens with donations of money, food or time. Challenge family, friends or co-workers to match your gifts. Donate nutrient-dense food, like canned tuna, chicken or beans. Make a commitment to give regularly throughout the year.

NATIONALLY: Large national groups support many services that local groups cannot provide: coordination and distribution of large corporate donations; surveys and studies of hunger statistics; and advocacy for public policies. America's Second Harvest: Ending Hunger www.secondharvest.org Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) www.frac.org

GLOBALLY: Solving global hunger problems requires both short-term and long-term solutions. Donations for food relief to Afghanistan are obviously a high priority this year. However, longer-term agricultural support projects are also critically important. Heifer International (livestock and training) www.heifer.org

United National Children's Fund (UNICEF) www.unicef.org

CHECKING ON CHARITIES: To give wisely, it is important to make certain that charities are doing well at doing good. You can visit local groups personally and investigate others on the web. These sites can help you check out the finances of your charities of choice: American of Institute of Philanthropy (AIP) @ www.charitywatch.org

Ministry Watch: Independent Ratings @ www.ministrywatch.org

Wise Giving Alliance of the Better Business Bureau @ www.give.org

Provided by Eat Right Montana Real Guidelines for Real People: The ABCs of Holiday Health Holidays can be tough on your health. There seems to be food everywhere. It's all high in fat and sugar - and it all looks irresistible. There is no time to exercise - and you're too tired to workout anyway. And, then, of course, there's the stress - this year more than ever. It's really no wonder that people gain weight during the holidays!

Fortunately, there is good news on the holiday horizon. With just a bit of nourishing self-care, you can survive this stressful season with your current weight and your holiday spirit intact. Making a commitment to taking good care of your health does not mean that you have to deprive yourself of goodies or spend hours in the gym. All it takes is a little time and attention to yourself. Give it a try and see how much better you feel. What better way to enjoy yourself, your family and the holidays!!

Tips for high-energy, low-stress holidays

1. Aim for fitness ~ be active every day. * Physical activity is the secret to holiday stress reduction and 'waist' management. Find activities that you enjoy - dancing, walking, skiing, skating, or building a snowman with kids - for at least 30 minutes a day.

2. Build a healthy base ~ with breakfast every day. * Eating breakfast will give you energy for busy days - and help prevent overeating in the evening. Include a high-protein food in every breakfast with yogurt, cheese, eggs, peanut butter, leftover meats, or smoothies.

3. Choose sensibly ~ and tastefully every day. * The key to choosing sensibly is to enjoy all foods; just don't overdo it. Enjoy your favorite holiday treats; just pay attention to the amount you eat. Balance rich holiday foods with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

4. Prevent overeating ~ plan for holiday events. * Deprivation leads to overeating at parties filled with tempting goodies. Instead of starving, eat regular meals and have a light snack just before you go out. String cheese, beef jerky or a glass of low-fat milk will work.

5. Lighten-up your cooking ~ with low-fat ingredients. * Many holiday foods can be made with lighter ingredients - and still have their usual wonderful flavors. Try light sour cream in dips, light cream cheese in baked treats, and light whipped cream as a topping.

6. Savor foods slowly ~ and listen to your stomach. * When you eat quickly or while doing other things, it is easy to overeat. Satisfaction comes from eating slowly, from savoring the smells, textures and flavors of food, from letting your stomach tell you when to stop.

7. Continue food traditions ~ and make new ones. * Traditional foods bring comfort to our lives with links to family and our cultural heritage. It's also fun to create new traditions with your family. How about Christmas pizza with a "wreath" of red and green peppers?

8. Drink to your health ~ and stay well hydrated. * Too much holiday 'cheer' can cause serious problems. If you're the host, offer non-alcoholic options - and designated drivers as needed. Maintain your holiday spirit with lots of refreshing fluids - water, juice and milk.

9. Share the bounty ~ with food and nutrition gifts. * Your kitchen is the perfect place to create delicious gifts, like holiday fruit and nut baskets or dry soup mixes for winter days. Or consider light-style cookbooks or a certificate for a complete dinner delivery.

10. Take time for yourself ~ get away from the frenzy. * Rest, relax and renew your holiday spirit for at least 15 minutes a day. Put away the holiday snacks - and get out of the kitchen. Listen to your favorite seasonal music, read a book to a child, or take a nap with a cat. For more tips on tasteful, healthful holidays: * Cooking Light Online: Healthy living, recipes and more

* Meals for You: Adaptable recipes and complete menus

* USDA Food and Nutrition Information Center

Food and Fitness for the Holidays: Make healthy choices so you can do all the things you want to do. There's no need to raise your stress level by trying to lose weight or make dramatic changes in your lifestyle. Just take these simple steps - so you can have tons of energy and plenty of holiday spirit.

BE ACTIVE. This really is the key to holiday health - and the bottom line is simple. Get moving and keep moving. In the hustle and bustle of the season, time for physical activity is often the first thing to go. To rejoice actively, you can: * Take a joyful walk - outside or at the mall - with friends, family and dogs. * Enjoy winter sports - skiing, skating, sledding, or making snow angels. * Turn up the volume on the Christmas carols - and rock around the house.

BE REALISTIC. Plan ahead for holiday greetings, meetings and feasts. If you are over-hungry, it's natural to over-eat with all the temptations of holiday tables. The secret is to eat something light, but filling, an hour or so before events. Fuel yourself with a piece of string cheese, a small muffin, some beef jerky or half a sandwich before you go out - that way you'll be able to make more sensible choices.

BE ADVENTUROUS. Expand your holiday treat selection with a variety of colorful fruits and veggies. Produce brightens up holiday tables and boosts your immune system at the same time. Serve crisp veggies with all your low-fat dips. Drink to everyone's health with a spicy tomato juice "mocktail" or hot apple cider. For dessert, think fresh fruit salad or fruit slices with a yogurt dip in addition to the pies and cakes.

BE FLEXIBLE. Stop fretting about your favorite holiday foods, the big party at work, or a day filled with holiday celebrations. The key is learning to balance what you eat and your physical activity over several days. Balance a heavy-duty holiday buffet by going light at breakfast and lunch beforehand. Take an invigorating walk before, or after, the party to help clear your head and digest your meal.

BE SENSIBLE. Enjoy all holiday foods and beverages, just don't overdo it. When you look at the wide array of food, make conscious choices. Relax, take a deep breath, and remind yourself that you don't have to eat everything right now. All the goodies will be around next year and the year after that! Start with small portions, eat slowly, and savor every bite. Listen carefully to internal signals that you are full.

10 Easy Ways to Enjoy Each Other Around Your Holiday Table

1. Turn off the television ~ and turn on some holiday music.

2. Wash your hands ~ and keep everyone healthy for the holidays.

3. Set your table in a festive way ~ and add holiday colors.

4. Talk to each other ~ and share some pleasant conversation.

5. Try a new food ~ and make a new favorite this year.

6. Plan some fun activities ~ and make some holiday memories.

7. Take your time ~ and enjoy a nourishing meal together.

8. Share memories ~ and talk about what makes you special.

9. Put the leftovers away ~ and keep food safe for later meals.

10. Hang around after the meal ~ and read a holiday book.

Developed for good health by: Yellowstone County Nutrition Coalition

Open Burning Season Ends November 30, 2001 (12/2/01)

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality reminds the public that the open burning season ended on November 30. No open burning will be permitted until March 1, 2002, except open burning to train firefighters, emergency open burning, essential agricultural open burning, prescribed wildland open burning, and open burning in the Eastern Montana Open Burning Zone. Specific permission for these types of open burning must be obtained from the department at (406) 444-3490.

Residents of the Eastern Montana Open Burning Zone who wish to conduct open burning during the winter months must notify both the Department and their county sanitarian by telephone prior to ignition. Burning will only be allowed if the department has determined that ventilation conditions are good or excellent. This provision allowing limited winter burning does not apply to the burning of trade waste material and landfill burns.

The Eastern Montana Open Burning Zone includes the following counties or portions of counties: Bighorn, Blaine, Carbon, Carter, Cascade, Choteau, Custer, Daniels, Dawson, Fallon, Fergus, Garfield, Glacier, Golden Valley, Hill, Judith Basin, Liberty, McCone, Meagher, Musselshell, Park (that portion north of Interstate 90), Petroleum, Phillips, Pondera, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Roosevelt, Rosebud, Sheridan, Stillwater, Sweetgrass, Teton, Toole, Treasure, Valley, Wheatland, Wibaux, and Yellowstone.

Residents of Yellowstone, Flathead, Missoula and Lincoln counties and all Indian reservations should contact their local air quality agency for regulations. Both the local fire control authority and county sanitarians must be contacted prior to open burning during any time of the year to obtain information on local open burning permits and rules.

Montana's open burning rules were amended in October 1995 to allow open burning in the eastern portion of Montana during the winter months of December, January, and February in order to recognize the difference in ventilation conditions in the eastern and western portions of the state.

In the western, more mountainous areas of the state, inversion layers are common during the winter months and pose a potential threat to the air quality and public health. In eastern areas of the state, ventilation conditions are better, and inversions pose less of a threat to the air quality and public health in general. Montana's open burning regulations limit open burning to the spring and summer months (March 1 through August 31) when ventilation is best.

During the fall months (September through November), when air ventilation conditions are worsening because of inversions and stagnant air conditions, the Department, in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management, the United States Forest Service, and the state's major open burners, operates a monitoring program to regulate open burning based on ventilation conditions in various airsheds. During this time, open burning restriction information can be obtained by calling 1-800-225-6779. From December 1 through the end of February, when ventilation conditions are at their worst, open burning is generally prohibited in the western portion of the state.

Montana Department Of Agriculture Promotes Businesses New Trade Show Program Seeks Applicants By Jan. 31, 2002 Deadline (12/2/01)

The Montana Department of Agriculture Trade Assistance Program is offering financial help and marketing assistance to promote Montana agri-business products and services at trade exhibitions throughout the United States.

"We're really excited about what this versatile program can do for Montana's agri-businesses," says Ralph Peck, director of the Montana Department of Agriculture. "The high-traffic visibility of trade exhibitions is the type of exposure that can really boost sales, and we want to make that happen for as many Montana companies as possible."

Three companies have already been approved to receive financial assistance through the new Trade Assistance Program. Eligible companies can apply to receive up to $1000 in financial support to defer the cost of participating in state and national trade exhibitions and promotions.

In addition to financial help, the Montana Department of Agriculture's Agriculture Marketing and Business Development Program provides a wealth of marketing advice and assistance free of charge.

"The department's marketing program can help to guide Montana's agribusinesses toward the trade opportunities that would best compliment a company's desired markets and production goals," says Brent Poppe, bureau chief of the Agriculture Marketing and Business Development Bureau. "The program is here to provide the tools and assistance needed to expand local, regional and national markets for Montana's high quality products."

The next application deadline is January 31, 2002, with subsequent deadlines falling on April 30, July 31 and October 31 annually.

For an application or for more information on the Trade Assistance Program, contact Angelyn Stonebraker, marketing specialist at the Montana Department of Agriculture at (406) 444-2404, or by e-mail at agr@state.mt.us. Program guidelines and trade show exhibiting tips are available at the Montana Department of Agriculture's web site at http://www.agr.state.mt.us.

Transportation Bill Passes House; Highway 2 And Fort Peck Roads Money Included (12/1/01)

State Senator Sam Kitzenberg stopped by the KLTZ/Mix-93 studios on Friday to let us know that the U.S. House had passed the Transportation Bill earlier that day. The bill includes $1 million to study the feasibility of widening U.S. 2 to four lanes, one of Kitzenberg's pet projects. Also included in the bill is another $1 million to improve the access of fishing access roads at Fort Peck Reservoir, another project Kitzenberg has been involved in.

Regarding the Highway 2 funds, he stated that he was "very excited" that the funding had passed. He noted that $1 million wasn't very much in terms of getting the project done, but that it is a very important first step. Kitzenberg said it will take many years for the highway to be expanded, if the expansion is approved. He encouraged citizens along the Hi-line to think long-term on the project.

The Transportation Bill passed the House 371-11 and now goes to the Senate.

Myron G. Grendahl

Myron G. Grendahl, 74, of Glasgow formerly of Wolf Point died on December 30, 2001, at the Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital in Glasgow.

Myron was born August 29, 1927, in Keene, North Dakota, the son of George M. and Celia Grendahl. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1950.

On November 24, 1950 he married Sheila Mae Judkins in Sidney, MT. When he came to Wolf Point he worked at Servisoft for a short time and then worked for the Ford Garage as a mechanic and shop foreman until he retired in 1997.

Myron loved fishing and bowling. He was a member of the VFW Post #1755 in Wolf Point and a member of the First Lutheran Church in Glasgow.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife in 1995, and two brothers and a sister.

Survivors include two sons, Bruce of California and Larry of Billings; a daughter Vicki Hammond of Ft. Mill, South Carolina; fiancée Sandra Svenningson of Glasgow; five brothers, Vernon of Freemont, OH, Dean of Colorado Springs, CO, Minor of New Castle, WY, Wayne and Noel both of Orlando, FL; two sisters, Avis Hendrickson of Minot, ND and Gayle Nybakken of Johnson City, TN; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Visitations will be held from 12:00 noon to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 2, 2002 at the Clayton Memorial Chapel in Wolf Point. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 3, at the Clayton Memorial Chapel with Pastor Marty Mock of Glasgow officiating. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

John Stuber

John Stuber, 76, died of cancer at the Parkview Convalescent Center in Dillon, MT, on December 25, 2001. Services will be held at the Hinsdale Legion Hall in Hinsdale, MT, on Monday, December 31 at 10:30 a.m. with Reverend Gus Gustafson officiating. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery in Thoeny, MT. Bell Mortuary in Glasgow is in charge of arrangements.

John Stuber was born on July 15, 1925 to Albert and Dorthea Thoeny Stuber of Thoeny, MT, now a ghost town. He was educated at the Thoeny grade school and Hinsdale High School. He worked as a farmer-rancher, on the family farm, later he was co-owner of the farm. He took time out to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, during WW II and was stationed on Guam and China. After the war he did more farming, dam and road building, was an expert mechanic and heliarc welder. He later did work on plumbing and heating.

He was a member of the Dillon American Legion Post #20. His hobbies consisted of flying and amateur radio.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine, two step-daughters, Jean Williams, of So. Lake Tahoe, CA and Rosann Mosier, of Blackfoot, ID; one sister Mrs. Ruby Johnson of Glasgow; two brothers, Joe Stuber of Hinsdale and Allen Stuber of Glasgow; three step-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Esther Barnard and Mary Hurmi; two brothers, Tim & Franklin Stuber; and his step son Ray Otte.

Arthur A. Busche

Arthur A. Busche, 82, a World War II Army veteran and retired rancher, died on Tuesday, December 25th at the Phillips County Good Samaritan Center in Malta.

No services are planned at this time; cremation has taken place. Adams Funeral Home of Malta is in charge of arrangements.

Jenimae (Johnson) Dahl

Jenimae (Johnson) Dahl, 80, died of natural causes on Wednesday, December 19, 2001, at Valley View Home in Glasgow, MT.

She was born January 28, 1921, in Opheim to Joseph and Elvina (Benson) Johnson. She always lived in Opheim and graduated from Ophiem High School. She married Otto Dahl at Opheim on December 10, 1939.

She was a very outgoing person. She loved to make buns and give them to friends and she enjoyed traveling. Her grandchildren were very important to her. To have known Jenimae was a true blessing. She had a positive input on all of our lives with a cheerful attitude. She always remained thankful in spite of her failing health. She loved to visit and never met a stranger. She welcomed all people to her home, making them feel comfortable with her sincere hospitality. Family gatherings will always hold special memories and be dear to her loved one's hearts. For Jenimae, the more people the happier the occasion.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Donalda Jean Dahl, of Lubbock, TX.

She is survived by her husband, Otto, of Glasgow; two sons, Rodney Dahl of Roundup and Allen Dahl of Great Falls; three daughters, Myrna Delay of Littleton, CO, Zona Gale Attwood of Melbourne, FL, and Lori Pyle of Gardnerville, NV; one sister, Eunice Crisp of Arkansas; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Sunday, December 23, at 2 p.m. at the Opheim Methodist Church in Opheim with Rev. Tim Henz officiating. Burial was in the Lawndale Cemetery in Opheim. Bell Mortuary of Glasgow was in charge of arrangements.

Pallbearers were Christopher Dahl, Zachary Dahl, Toby Dahl, Seth Dahl, Aaron Delay and Nathan Delay.

Louis Alfred Toavs

Louis Alfred Toavs, 87, died Christmas morning at 2:25 a.m. at the Northeast Montana Health Services Facility in Wolf Point, MT.

He was born on July 11, 1914 to Abraham F. and Maria Michel Toavs in Ulen, MN the seventh of fifteen children. He was two years old when he moved with his parents from Minnesota to homestead north of Wolf Point.

On June 3, 1937, he married Lena Koslowsky at Hawley, MN. They both worked in Wolf Point, Louis at Camrud Motors and Lena at the Sherman Hotel. They moved to the farm on Tule Creek in 1939 and to their present farm in 1949, purchased from an uncle N.J. Toavs.

He was a lifelong member of the Wolf Point Bethel Mennonite Church. He had a deep faith in God that was exemplified in his encouragement to family and friends in ministry which led to many "hands on" projects for churches and missions.

Louis was a farmer/rancher at heart. He loved each part of the seasons as he worked hard to see the success and progress of cattle and farming. Breaking up sod was one of his joys, from horses to the big John Deere four-wheel drives. A man who lived to the fullest is shown by the large John Deere collection he assembled in his later season of life. Many visitors come from far and near to see this dream.

Louis was active in community affairs, having served on the Trinity Hospital Board, Lustre Christian High School, Mennonite Disaster Service, and Grace University Advisory Board.

Survivors include his wife Lena of the family home; a daughter Lorna and husband John Jackson of Wolf Point; a grandson Terry, wife Lori and three great-granddaughters, Meagan, Laurel, and Kiley of Ljubljana Slovenia; a granddaughter Brenda, husband Richard Darland and three great-grandsons, Kyle, Andrew Louis, and Benjamin of Vancouver, WA; three sisters, Rosella Reeves, Lily Baker, and Lila Bartel all of Wolf Point; three brothers, Jesse of Anoka, MN, John of Wolf Point, and Harry of Billings, and many more family and friends.

Visitations will be held on Sunday, December 30, from 1:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Clayton Memorial Chapel in Wolf Point. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 31 at the Clayton Memorial Church with Pastor Marvin Penner of Wolf Point and Pastor Neville Peterson of Glendive officiating. Interment will be at Wolf Point Bethel Church Cemetery.

Marvin E. Garsjo

Marvin E. Garsjo, 90, died of natural causes on Saturday, December 22nd at Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital in Glasgow. Services will be on Wednesday, December 26th at 10 a.m. at the First Lutheran Church in Glasgow with Reverend Martin Mock officiating and with burial in Highland Cemetery. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Marvin was born in Hatton, North Dakota, in 1911 to Adolph and Martha Garso. He lived north of Nashua since 1916 on the family homestead. He started school at the Grain School north of Nashua; there were 44 students and the teacher, Helen Hines, was 16 years old. In 1938. he married Thelma Buen in Glasgow. In addition to farming, Marvin worked as manager of the Farmers Union Oil in Nashua from 1941-45, and also had worked on the construction of Fort Peck Dam. He had attended Hanson Auto Mechanic School in Fargo, North Dakota. Marvin also did custom farming, especially swathing and worked for Triple A (USDA) measuring fields and grain bins.

He was a member of the Glasgow Elks, Sons of Norway, was a 30-year director of the Farmers Union Grain Terminal, and was a director of the Fair Board for several years. He was a member of the Bethel Lutheran Church north of Nashua and First Lutheran Church of Glasgow. His family was most important to him and he loved to play cards, tease people and had a quick wit.

Survivors include 2 sons: Jerome Garsjo (and Donna) of Green River, Wyoming, and Carlyle Garsjo of Glasgow; 5 daughters: Marilynn Johnson (and Gary) of Wolf Point, Patricia Hill (and Jon) of Nashua, Irene Degele of Glasgow, Sandra Feit of Glasgow and Leona Garsjo of Glasgow; Sons-in-law: Tony Degele and Mike Goff; Daughters-in-law: Cindy Brady and Jane Nesbo; 3 brothers: Hartvik Garsjo of Nashua, Alfred Garsjo of Benton City, Washington and Ernest Garsjo of Stayton, Oregon; 1 sister: Alvhild Heuer of Hampton, Oregon; 16 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by 1 brother and 2 sisters and 2 grandchildren.

Dwight Bramble

Dwight Bramble, age 82, died of natural causes on December 15th in Glasgow. Services will be Thursday, December 20th at 11 a.m. at the First Congregational Church in Glasgow with Reverend Emory Robotham officiating. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include one daughter, Maurine Collins of Arizona.

Marion Louise Ochsner

Marion Louise Ochsner of Malta, 82, died of natural causes on Monday, December 10th at the Phillips County Good Samaritan Center. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Friday, December 14th at the Malta Lutheran Church, with burial in the Malta Cemetery. Adams Funeral Home of Malta is in charge of arrangements.

Marion was born in 1919 in Omaha, Nebraska, to Edward and Minnie Tierney. After her parents' death in 1927, she moved to Whitewater to live with her uncle and aunt, Martin & Delphia Dahlman. She married Edwiin Ochsner in 1937 in Malta. They lived in Whitewater where she worked for the Whitewater Schools and was a homemaker.

Survivors include 2 sons: Larry (and LeAnn) of Glasgow and Robert (and Marie) of Venice, Florida; 1 sister: Dorothy Bos of Sioux City, Iowa; 2 grandchildren: Heidi Ochsner of Cheney, Washington, and Erik Ochsner of Wahpeton, North Dakota.

She was preceded in death by her husband Edwin in 1986.

Wayne Douglass Hill

Wayne Douglass Hill of Nashua , 58, died of heart failure at Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital in Glasgow on December 9th. Services will be Thursday, December 13th at 10 a.m. at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Nashua with burial in the Nashua City Cemetery. Reverend Chris Flohr will officiate. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Wayne was born in 1942 in Glasgow to Calvin and Viola Osterberg Hill. He lived his entire life as part of the Nashua Community. He ran a farming operation north of Nashua. Wayne worked for the Glasgow Ready Mix for several years. He also drove truck for Rice Truck Lines and operated heavy equipment for oil field work. He enjoyed hunting, guns and shooting, and playing pinochle and cards.

Survivors include 1 daughter: Waynetta Dee Hill of Nashua; 3 brothers: James & Ardis Hill of German Town, Maryland, Jon & Pat Hill of Nashua, and Dustin & Sharon Hill of Scobey; 1 sister: Isabelle (and Gerald) Collins of Ramona, California. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother.

Michael J. Kittleson

Michael J. Kittleson of Glasgow, 51, died of heart failure on December 9th in Anaconda, Montana. Services will be Wednesday, December 12th at 2pm at the First United Methodist Church in Glasgow with Reverend Dave Hodsdon officiating and with burial in the Galpin Cemetery in Fort Peck. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Michael was born to Dorval and Blanche Kittleson in 1950 in Glasgow. He was raised and attended schools in Glasgow. Mike was a pawn-shop owner in Anaconda.

Survivors include his wife Janet of Anaconda; parents Dorval and Blanche Kittleson of Glasgow; 3 sons: Aaron of Anaconda, Josh of Jordan, Montana, and Jason & Cristin of Belt, Montana; 2 daughters: Megan of Anaconda and Kari & Chris Shirley of Helena; 3 brothers: Rocky Kittleson of Glasgow, Clay Kittleson of Fort Peck, Darin Kittleson of Great Falls; 2 sisters: Diane Golimowski of Glasgow and Karla McGill of Wolf Point; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Raymond C. "Red" Melby

Raymond C. "Red" Melby of Hinsdale, 92, died of natural causes at Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital on December 9th. Services will be Tuesday, December 11th at 3pm at the Hinsdale Legion Hall, with Reverend Dave Hodsdon officiating and with burial in the Hillview Cemetery in Hinsdale. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Raymond was born in 1909 in Coteau, North Dakota, to Gilbert and Esther Melby. Raymond was a World War II veteran, serving as a Master Sergeant in the U.S. Army. Raymond married Joan Schultz in 1952. He was active with the EMT, Hinsdale Ambulance, Lions Club, was a member of the American Legion, was a BPOE Lodge #2201 member in Glasgow and was a member of the Hinsdale Methodist Church and the Hinsdale Rodeo Club. He loved Hinsdale Raider basketball and he loved rodeos.

Survivors include his wife Joan of Hinsdale; 1 son: Calton Melby & Sharon Swanson of Gillette, Wyoming; 4 daughters: Janet Mader & Justin of Gillette, Wyoming, LaVaun McCann & Michael of Grand Forks, North Dakota, Dora-Jean Beil & Ed of Hinsdale, and Susan Apodaca & Larry of Denver; 1 brother: Elmer Melby of Salem, Oregon; 1 sister: Alice Peterson of Minneapolis; grandchildren: Jeremiah Mader, Lisa Mader, Michelle McCann, Robert McCann, Joshua Beil, Mandy Beil and Austin Beil.

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