Stories for May 2023

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Thursday, May 25

May 25, 2023 12:05 a.m.

Mission sends six tennis players to state

Mission tennis teams were determined at the Western B-C Divisionals last Thursday and Friday in Bigfork. The boys secured an impressive second place overall, and the team's performance resulted in six players earning qualification for the upcoming state tournament in Great Falls.

May 25, 2023 midnight

Volunteers sought for National Trails Day

Do you want to give back to your local trails? Celebrate National Trails Day by volunteering at a pair of local state parks in early June.

Time Capsule: Irrigation action, graduation, retrocession and lightning strike
May 25, 2023 midnight

Time Capsule: Irrigation action, graduation, retrocession and lightning strike

From the archives: Typhoid fever, irrigation action, graduation, a house blaze and retrocession were in the news

Polson claims second place in Western A Divisionals
May 25, 2023 midnight

Polson claims second place in Western A Divisionals

Four-run rallies for Columbia Falls in the fourth and fifth innings proved to be the difference maker as the WildKats defeated the Lady Pirates 11-7 in the Western A Divisional Championship Game on Saturday, May 20, in Frenchtown.

May 25, 2023 midnight

Mission-Arlee-Charlo takes second at B-C Divisionals

Florence-Carlton scored all its runs in the first three innings en route to the Western B-C Divisional Softball title on Saturday, May 20, with a 9-3 victory over Mission-Arlee-Charlo. This game marked MAC’s third tournament encounter with the Bitterroot Valley team.

Charlo makes strong showing at Western C
May 25, 2023 midnight

Charlo makes strong showing at Western C

Charlo had a strong showing at the Western C Track and Field Championships on Friday and Saturday in Missoula, with the boys claiming third and the Charlo girls placing fifth.

Bulldogs take fourth at Western B Track Meet
May 25, 2023 midnight

Bulldogs take fourth at Western B Track Meet

The Mission Valley had a plethora of top placers at the Western B Track Meet last Friday and Saturday in Missoula at MCPS Stadium, qualifying a good number of athletes for the State B Track and Field Championships this weekend in Butte. Mission boys also placed fourth as a team.

May 25, 2023 midnight

Ronan, Polson athletes head to state track meet

At the Western A Track and Field Championships at Corvallis Community Event Center on Friday and Saturday, several personal bests were made by Mission Valley athletes as some punched their ticket to the State Track and Field Championships this weekend in Laurel.

Polson shines at Divisional Tournament
May 25, 2023 midnight

Polson shines at Divisional Tournament

Polson's boys and girls tennis teams showcased their skills at the Northwest A Divisional tennis tournament in Libby last Thursday and Friday, earning team championships for both boys and girls.

LaFrombois signs with Providence
May 25, 2023 midnight

LaFrombois signs with Providence

Mission multi-sport athlete Zoran LaFrombois signed with Providence University in Great Falls recently, where he will have the opportunity to pursue both basketball and cross country/track, fulfilling his passion for both sports.

Mila Hawk signs with Fighting Saints
May 25, 2023 midnight

Mila Hawk signs with Fighting Saints

Polson High School's standout basketball player, Mila Hawk, recently signed to play basketball at Carroll College, bringing her skills to the Fighting Saints' program.

Community meeting explores dangers of fentanyl
May 25, 2023 midnight

Community meeting explores dangers of fentanyl

Fentanyl has hit the Mission Valley hard, and fentanyl overdoses are becoming more commonplace, according to officials who spoke at a community meeting in St. Ignatius last Wednesday.

May 25, 2023 midnight

20th Judicial District Court News

News from Judge Kim Christopher's 20th Judicial District Court:

Mission Valley Christian Academy adds new building
May 25, 2023 midnight

Mission Valley Christian Academy adds new building

Ribbon-cutting set for May 26

Construction workers began excavation for the “Upper School” of Mission Valley Christian Academy right after Memorial Day in 2022. It’s now mostly finished, with a few small touches needed, according to Andrew Russell, head of the school. The public is invited to check out the addition campus during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1 p.m. Friday, May 26.

May 25, 2023 midnight

Flathead watershed needs help now

The 68th Session of the Montana Legislature recently concluded. While there have been some tacit wins for water quality, the Flathead Lakers see this as a glass-half-empty session.

May 25, 2023 midnight

Governor vetoes Public Law 280 legislation

Commissioners to vote Thursday on withdrawal

Last Wednesday, Gov. Greg Gianforte vetoed House Bill 479 – the only bill regarding Public Law 280 to make it through the 2023 Legislature. And this Thursday, the Lake County Commissioners vote on whether to withdraw from the law enforcement agreement that’s given the county felony criminal jurisdiction over tribal members since 1965.

James J. Cole, 91
May 25, 2023 midnight

James J. Cole, 91

James J. Cole, 91, of Kalispell, passed away Sunday, May 21, 2023. He is survived by his wife Lora and his children, James Jr., Patty Louden and Sue Reiman.

Memorial Day parades on tap
May 25, 2023 midnight

Memorial Day parades on tap

The Mission Valley Honor Guard will lead Memorial Day processions in Ronan and Polson on Monday, with each parade ending at community cemeteries for recitation of the names of fallen soldiers.

May 25, 2023 midnight

MV Calendar: Your events guide to the Mission Valley

Check out our guide to upcoming events in the Mission Valley

May 25, 2023 midnight

The Mayor of Alberton

I hadn’t seen Joe Hanson for a few years. Mutual friends were saying that I should get over to Alberton to see him because – you know – he’s getting up there in years. Aren’t we all, I thought.

May 25, 2023 midnight

St. Ignatius Seniors: Thankful for rain

It is nice to get the rain to nourish the plants and to settle the forest fire smoke. Sending positive thoughts to our neighbors to the North. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy a meal with at the center at noon Fridays and Tuesdays and 5:30 p.m. Wednesdays.

May 25, 2023 midnight

Legals for May, 25 2023

May 25, 2023 midnight

Red Cross seeks blood donors

The American Red Cross asks people to book a time to give blood now to address a recent drop in donation appointments that could lead to fewer transfusions for patients in the weeks ahead. Local opportunities are available June 6 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in St. Ignatius, and June 13 at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson.

History Makers: Polson wins Montana’s first-ever state baseball title
May 25, 2023 midnight

History Makers: Polson wins Montana’s first-ever state baseball title

This year, Polson made history by being the first-ever Pirate baseball team. They added to the history books on Saturday at 3 Legends Stadium in Butte, defeating Whitefish 10-4 in the inaugural Montana All-Class State Baseball Tournament Championship Game.

Three Polson grads make the UM cheerleading team
May 25, 2023 midnight

Three Polson grads make the UM cheerleading team

“I’m in a little bit of a pickle,” admits Polson High senior Lucy Violett, who recently won a spot on the UM Griz Cheer Squad.

Women 4 Wellness draws health-conscious crowd
May 25, 2023 midnight

Women 4 Wellness draws health-conscious crowd

It’s been four years since Women 4 Wellness filled the Joe McDonald Health and Fitness Center on the Salish Kootenai College campus with offerings for women of all ages. Held this year on May 18, about 450 visitors attended the health event.

Karen Ann Vergeront, 74
May 25, 2023 midnight

Karen Ann Vergeront, 74

Karen Beck Vergeront was born on July 9, 1948, to Sam and Betty Beck in Deer Lodge.

Darlene Evon Jackson, 82
May 25, 2023 midnight

Darlene Evon Jackson, 82

Darlene Jackson died March 9 in Hamilton.

May 25, 2023 midnight

Ronan Seniors: Audiologist to visit

The Mission Valley Senior Center, located across from St. Luke Hospital in Ronan, is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for lunch and other activities.

May 25, 2023 midnight

Polson Seniors: Remember the patriots

Last week Armed Forces Day was celebrated and May 29 is Memorial Day. Remember those who are dear to us, particularly those who offered their lives or lost their lives in military service.

May 25, 2023 midnight

Entries open for Golf for the Griz tournament

The Mission Mountain Chapter of the Grizzly Scholarship Association is hosting its annual Golf for the Griz Memorial Tournament on Friday June 9, at the Mission Mountain Golf Course in Ronan. All proceeds go for Grizzly Athletic Scholarships.

Players bring "Steel Magnolias" to Polson stage
May 25, 2023 midnight

Players bring "Steel Magnolias" to Polson stage

The Port Polson Players, in association with Mission Valley Friends of the Arts, open the historic log Theatre on the Lake for the summer with the southern classic “Steel Magnolias.”

Hwy. 93 road crew to take holiday break
May 25, 2023 midnight

Hwy. 93 road crew to take holiday break

Due to the holiday weekend, Riverside Contracting crews at work on the Ronan-North project will stop work by noon Friday and return Tuesday morning.

New weather station constructed at Bison Range
May 25, 2023 midnight

New weather station constructed at Bison Range

The CSKT Bison Range and the Montana Climate Office have teamed up to construct a new Montana Mesonet weather station behind the CSKT Bison Range Visitor Center.

Thursday, May 18

Polson posts two wins in Co-Falls tourney
May 18, 2023 midnight

Polson posts two wins in Co-Falls tourney

Teams find it extremely difficult to get runs off the Polson Pirates, which was confirmed during the Sapa Johnsrud Tournament last weekend in Columbia Falls.

May 18, 2023 midnight

St. Ignatius Seniors: Raffle and bake sale a success

I want to thank all the people who bought raffle tickets and baked goods for our Mother’s Day drawing and played bingo. Your support is much appreciated.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Governor vetoes Hertz’s lakeshore bill

Last Thursday, Gov. Greg Gianforte vetoed Senate Bill 301, sponsored by Polson Sen. Greg Hertz regarding structures built in the Lakeshore Protection Zone.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Commissioners move ahead on annex, road projects

The Lake County Commissioners moved forward on two major projects Monday morning by hiring a design and build team for the new courthouse annex and awarding an engineering contract for a $13-million road improvement project.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Legals for May, 18 2023

May 18, 2023 midnight

Spring Sports Calendar

Local teams are off to state and divisional contests this week.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Lake County graduations commence

High school graduations begin this week, with Two Eagle River in Pablo taking the lead, graduating 20 students at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 20.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Kicking the can down the road

Raising the debt ceiling isn’t a fix; it's kicking the can down the road.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Good-bye and thank you to Christian Bumgarner

Christian Bumgarner, a well-loved fixture in the Mission Valley’s musical community for more than three decades, has retired and moved to Idaho.

Polson hires alumnus as new activities director
May 18, 2023 midnight

Polson hires alumnus as new activities director

The Polson School District recently hired Sean Dellwo as the new district activities director.

Kendall Shae Schiele, 27
May 18, 2023 midnight

Kendall Shae Schiele, 27

Kendall Shae Schiele, 27 years old, entered into the arms of our Creator on Nov. 6, 2022.

Ryan Dale Anderson, 73
May 18, 2023 midnight

Ryan Dale Anderson, 73

Ryan Dale Anderson, age 73 of Pablo, passed away on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

Ronan grad receives prestigious counseling fellowship
May 18, 2023 midnight

Ronan grad receives prestigious counseling fellowship

Ronan graduate Jenaya Burns is one of two Montana State University students who plan to use their education to provide mental health counseling services to underserved populations. Both have been awarded a coveted fellowship to help them meet their goals.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation awards $46,000

The Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation awarded 36 scholarships totaling $46,000 to Polson High School seniors and former Polson High School graduates who are currently attending accredited two-year, four-year, community college, university or vocational schools.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Polson Seniors: Fly the flag May 20

Armed Forces Day is May 20. Since 1949 this holiday signifies the unification of the three branches of the armed forces into one unified force under the Department of Defense.

Claudia Dilys Cunningham (Nowicki)
May 18, 2023 midnight

Claudia Dilys Cunningham (Nowicki)

Claudia Dilys Cunningham (Nowicki), born in 1958, passed peacefully on April 24, 2023, in Missoula.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Learn to protect pollinators during Endangered Species Day

Make a pollinator seed ball and learn about Monarch butterflies during Endangered Species Day, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. May 18 at Mission Mountain View Point, south of Ronan.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Polson Rec offers free intro to pickleball

Polson Parks and Rec is sponsoring a free pickleball class for beginners from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 20 at the O’Malley Park courts. Scheduling begins Monday, May 22.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Veto shows disrespect to lawmakers, local governments

Governor Greg Gianforte’s attempt to veto Senate Bill 442 is unpopular, inexplicable, and contrary to the wishes of both the Legislature and the people of Montana.

May 18, 2023 midnight

UM lists spring graduates from Lake County

The following Lake County students were among 2,000 degree candidates for spring semester at the University of Montana.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Births at the Nesting Place

The following babies were born recently at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place in Polson:

May 18, 2023 midnight

The world is our classroom

Guns and gun safety are being talked about over and over in the news. How about having as much talk about how to address the obvious negative and dangerous human thinking and behavior patterns?

Mission Valley Calendar
May 18, 2023 midnight

Mission Valley Calendar

Your events guide to the Mission Valley

May 18, 2023 midnight

20th Judicial District Court News

Judge Molly Owen sees cases involving forgery, fifth DUI and criminal endangerment.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Montecahto Club offers scholarship; receives grant

The Montecahto Club, a nonprofit social service organization, is again offering a vocational scholarship of up to $1,000 to an individual in Lake County.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Ronan Seniors: Sunday dinner coming up

The Mission Valley Senior Center, located across from St. Luke Hospital in Ronan, is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for lunch and other activities.

Bullets fly, piggy bank stolen, postal rates rise
May 18, 2023 midnight

Bullets fly, piggy bank stolen, postal rates rise

Stroll through the archives of the Flathead Courier and Mission Valley News

Mack Days hauls in more than 33,000 lake trout
May 18, 2023 midnight

Mack Days hauls in more than 33,000 lake trout

The 2023 Spring Mack Days fishing competition on Flathead Lake wrapped up Saturday, May 13, with a grand total of 33,297 lake trout entered by 200 of the 615 anglers registered, making it one of the better events in the history of Mack Days.

Mark Andrew Trim, 61
May 18, 2023 midnight

Mark Andrew Trim, 61

Mark Andrew Trim rode a private jet to heaven on Jan. 23 where he is no doubt enjoying a margarita in Margaritaville. He prefers not to be followed so he can watch MASH in peace and quiet.

May 18, 2023 midnight

Four PHS grads to receive MUS Honor Scholarships

The Montana University System has awarded the prestigious Montana University System Honor Scholarship to Polson High students Addison Bahr, Rylie Dupuis, Piper Hoxie and Aspen McKee.

Beverly Ann Robison, 70
May 18, 2023 midnight

Beverly Ann Robison, 70

Beverly Ann (Jenkins) Robison, 70, surrounded by her family after a long fight against MS, went up to run with her angels on May 6.

Commissioners create new department to manage Ronan fairgrounds
May 18, 2023 midnight

Commissioners create new department to manage Ronan fairgrounds

After a public hearing on April 27, the Lake County Commissioners passed a resolution to create a Fairgrounds Department that will impact only the Ronan property.

Skillicorn, Durglo and Ulutoa winners at ABC Meet
May 18, 2023 midnight

Skillicorn, Durglo and Ulutoa winners at ABC Meet

Lake County had three event winners at the Polson ABC meet on Saturday, May 13.

Charlo earns pair of seconds in district track action
May 18, 2023 midnight

Charlo earns pair of seconds in district track action

The Charlo boys and girls were second in the 14C District Meet on Friday, May 12, in Missoula, with boys tallying 163 points and the girls collecting 107 points. The Arlee Boys were fourth in the Boys 6B District Meet with 37 points.

Mission has bark at District 7B Meet
May 18, 2023 midnight

Mission has bark at District 7B Meet

The Mission boys were second in the District 7B meet, held Saturday in Eureka, with 112 points.

Polson remains conference powerhouse
May 18, 2023 midnight

Polson remains conference powerhouse

Polson continued to be the power of the Northwestern A Conference in tennis as evidenced by last week’s matches.

Ronan falls to Libby
May 18, 2023 midnight

Ronan falls to Libby

Both the Ronan boys and girls tennis teams fell to Libby on Saturday, May 13, on the road, but the Maidens did pick up a pair of victories.

Lake County softball teams mostly fare well in busy week
May 18, 2023 midnight

Lake County softball teams mostly fare well in busy week

Polson, Ronan and Mission-Arlee-Charlo all posted wins during last week's softball marathon.

River Honoring teaches new generation about land stewardship
May 18, 2023 midnight

River Honoring teaches new generation about land stewardship

The fourth graders from St. Ignatius elementary loved the 36th River Honoring, according to their teacher. The kids agreed, smiling, and giving high fives.

Thursday, May 11

May 11, 2023 midnight

Judge rules Public Law 280 suit can go forward

The fate of Public Law 280 – the law enforcement agreement between the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Lake County and the State of Montana that gives the county jurisdiction over felonies committed on the Flathead Reservation – remains in limbo.

Deadline to sign up for gardening class is May 15
May 11, 2023 midnight

Deadline to sign up for gardening class is May 15

The Arlee Community Development Corporation is offering classes in gardening and leadership in conjunction with the community garden being planted on Powwow Road.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Highway project adds rumble strips on 93

In yet another Highway 93 project, the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is teaming up with HighMark Traffic Services to install rumble strips between the Interstate 90 Wye Interchange and Big Arm.

Organization bids farewell to Richardson, welcomes new ED
May 11, 2023 midnight

Organization bids farewell to Richardson, welcomes new ED

SAFE Harbor – an organization that assists those dealing with domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault, and dating violence – is going through its own transition as it welcomes new executive director Brandi Clark, and says farewell to DeeAnn Richardson.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Ronan Seniors: Mother’s Day brunch

The Mission Valley Senior Center, located across from St. Luke Hospital in Ronan, is open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for lunch and other activities. This week's offerings include Mother's Day brunch, May 15.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Hopefully not the new normal

I hope this is not the “New Normal”: Everywhere you go there are shortages of workers. Public schools are no different. The teacher shortage is very real and very challenging. We are dealing with those shortages as best we can.

May 11, 2023 midnight

View from the Library: Construction begins

And so it begins. The construction crew arrived early on Monday, May 1, and started tearing out the ceiling and built-in circulation desk.

Larry Powers, 69
May 11, 2023 midnight

Larry Powers, 69

Larry W. Powers, age 69, passed away May 2, 2023, at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson. No services are planned currently.

Patricia Ann Funke, 91
May 11, 2023 midnight

Patricia Ann Funke, 91

Patricia Ann Funke, 91, died at her Polson home on Saturday, April 29, 2023. She was surrounded by family and passed peacefully.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Conservation easement proposed along Thompson River

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is initiating public scoping on a potential purchase of a conservation easement in Flathead and Sanders counties, along the Thompson River drainage.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Polson Seniors: Celebrate the women in your life

Mother’s Day is May 14. I figure that every day is mother’s day. Honor and celebrate the women in your life, as well as the mothers.

Alva Thomas Symington, 77
May 11, 2023 midnight

Alva Thomas Symington, 77

Alva Thomas Symington, 77, passed away peacefully May 2 surrounded by his cows, the great outdoors and people whom he cherished.

May 11, 2023 midnight

20th Judicial District Court News

Some of last week's proceedings in Judge Molly Owen's court:

May 11, 2023 midnight

St. Ignatius Senior Center: Mom’s Day bake sale

Mother’s Day is fast approaching. If you do not know what you are going to surprise her with come into the St. Ignatius Senior Center on meal days and buy a chance to win our Mother’s Day Basket. The center also hosts a bake sale for Mother’s Day on May 12 and 13.

Daniel Frank Gerhardt, 62
May 11, 2023 midnight

Daniel Frank Gerhardt, 62

Daniel Frank Gerhardt, age 62, passed away on Friday, May 5, 2023 at St. Luke Community Hospital in Ronan.

Community members gather for National Day of Prayer
May 11, 2023 midnight

Community members gather for National Day of Prayer

Was it a sit-in, was it a protest, was it a picnic? No, Thursday, May 4, was National Day of Prayer, and at noon about 40 people gathered on the Lake County Courthouse lawn in Polson for prayers.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Lack of April showers brings diminished snow pack

After a couple of months of above normal precipitation across most of Montana, active weather largely slowed down in April.

Students plant trio of trees for Arbor Day
May 11, 2023 midnight

Students plant trio of trees for Arbor Day

On a sunny Arbor Day, 20 Polson Middle School students traipsed to O’Malley Park to plant a trio of purple robe locust trees, under the supervision of Polson Parks and Recreation employees.

Jeffrey D. Seago, 66
May 11, 2023 midnight

Jeffrey D. Seago, 66

A graveside celebration of life will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Lakeview Cemetery in Polson for Jeffrey D Seago (Jan. 18, 1956 to Oct. 17, 2022).

Bonnie D Seago, 91
May 11, 2023 midnight

Bonnie D Seago, 91

A graveside service will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, May 20, 2023, at Lakeview Cemetery in Polson to celebrate the life of Bonnie D Seago (April 26, 1930 to June 23, 2021).

Accepting impurity is important
May 11, 2023 midnight

Accepting impurity is important

A couple of months ago former Republican Governor Marc Racicot was labelled a RINO and formally drummed out of the Montana Republican Party, this in the face of the fact that he was responsible for the election of President George W. Bush and was also a former chair of the national Republican Party. Where had he gone wrong?

May 11, 2023 midnight

Blue Bay receives grant for life-jacket kiosk

The Recreation Management Program that oversees Blue Bay Campground on Flathead Lake received a grant from the Sea Tow Foundation to provide a life-jacket kiosk where guests can check out life jackets free of charge.

Mission Valley Aquatics celebrates 10th anniversary
May 11, 2023 midnight

Mission Valley Aquatics celebrates 10th anniversary

An anniversary party is approaching, celebrating 10 years since the first toes were dipped into the Mission Valley Aquatic and Fitness pools. To celebrate, MVAF is planning an ice-cream social, free swim and games on the lawn beginning at 10 a.m. June 10.

Kristine Walter, 57
May 11, 2023 midnight

Kristine Walter, 57

Kristine Kyla Walter, 57, of Polson, formerly of Missoula, gracefully slipped into the “promise land” May 3, 2023, at 1 a.m. to reunite with her beautiful mother, Jane, feisty Finnish Grams Elsie, and countless other friends and relatives undoubtedly eagerly awaiting her arrival.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Live History Days seeks volunteers

No books or classroom needed – it’s easy to learn history when you’re walking through the Miracle of America Museum in Polson. And every July during Live History Days, history comes to life as museum personnel start the engines and bring many of the static exhibits to life.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Spring Mack Days enters final week

There are just two days left in Spring Mack Days – the event sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and sanctioned by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks to bring lake-trout populations down in Flathead Lake.

Mussel Walk: Students learn to defend Flathead from AIS
May 11, 2023 midnight

Mussel Walk: Students learn to defend Flathead from AIS

Students from St. Ignatius High and Two Eagle River School in Pablo learned about the scourge of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) during a recent Mussel Walk – one of three scheduled this spring along the shores of Flathead Lake.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Ravalli AIS check station open 24/7

As the tourism season amps up, the Aquatic Invasive Species inspection station in Ravalli is gearing up too, and will be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week beginning May 13.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Polson posts win/loss, Mission bests Browning

In baseball action, Columbia Falls narrowly beats Polson, and Mission triumphs over Browning.

Softball: Mission Valley teams keep bats swinging
May 11, 2023 midnight

Softball: Mission Valley teams keep bats swinging

Mission Valley softball teams post wins during a rainy week at bat.

Polson sweeps Ronan in tennis
May 11, 2023 midnight

Polson sweeps Ronan in tennis

Polson continued their strong season, having the boys and girls sweep against Lake County rival Ronan on Wednesday, May 3.

Ronan tops team scores at Lake County Track Meet
May 11, 2023 midnight

Ronan tops team scores at Lake County Track Meet

Both the Ronan boys and girls won the team scoring at the Lake County Track Meet on Friday, May 5, in Polson, with all Lake County schools competing.

Fourth graders soak up ag information
May 11, 2023 midnight

Fourth graders soak up ag information

Fourth grade students from around Lake County had a special opportunity last Thursday and Friday.

Library construction starts with demolition
May 11, 2023 midnight

Library construction starts with demolition

The bright yellow walls of the North Lake County Library District building had big red x’s on them, indicating which wall was to be demolished as construction began on the building April 26.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Mission Valley Calendar

Check our guide to fun events in the Mission Valley

May 11, 2023 midnight

Former police chief pleads not-guilty to DUI

Jeremy Morigeau, attorney for former Polson Police Chief Wade Nash, entered a not-guilty plea to a DUI charge on behalf of his client on April 26 in Justice Court.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Railroad coming, Flying horse, Postal rates on the rise

A stroll through the archives of the Flathead Courier and Mission Valley News

Third time’s a charm: Polson voters approve two bond issues
May 11, 2023 midnight

Third time’s a charm: Polson voters approve two bond issues

Polson’s two bond issues passed by comfortable margins during last Tuesday’s election.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Motorcyclist dies after colliding with cow

DeWayne L. Kemp of Ronan died May 3 when his motorcycle struck a black cow on Highway 93 near the intersection of Lake McDonald Road on Post Creek Hill. He was 59.

May 11, 2023 midnight

Legals for May, 11 2023

Wednesday, May 10

May 10, 2023 midnight

Parks and Rec offers free pickleball session

Curious about pickleball? Polson Parks and Recreation Department is offering a free learning session at 8 a.m. Thursday, May 11, at the pickle-ball courts at O’Malley Park.

May 10, 2023 midnight

Parks and Rec offers free pickleball session

Curious about pickleball? Polson Parks and Recreation Department is offering a free learning session at 8 a.m. Thursday, May 11, at the pickle-ball courts at O’Malley Park.

Thursday, May 4

May 4, 2023 midnight

Bill invests marijuana tax revenue in roads

The Montana Senate gave final approval to a bill Monday that would take money taxed from the sale of marijuana in the state and contribute it to county roads, veterans, addiction treatment and wildlife habitat.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Grace Nicole Eastwood Manuel

Grace Nicole Eastwood Manuel was born on April 20 at the St. Luke Community Healthcare New Beginnings Birth Center.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Where have Montana manners gone?

During the 2007 legislative session, I sponsored legislation to allow alternate certification of teachers by local school districts on a one-year trial basis.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Celebrating Small Business Week

The week of April 30-May 6 as “National Small Business Week” in order to celebrate the impact small businesses and entrepreneurs have on Montana communities.

May 4, 2023 midnight

County posts job listing for Clerk & Recorder

Looking for a complicated job? The Lake County Commissioners are currently advertising for a Clerk and Recorder, Surveyor, Auditor and Public Administrator – the job title of elected official Katie Harding, who announced in early April that she’s leaving her post May 12 to pursue a different career opportunity.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Use the Speaker's gavel wisely

Speaker Regier has a gavel. He can declare members of our state's legislature out of order but without depriving them of their rights as members.

Mission student's ledger art selected to hang in Congress
May 4, 2023 midnight

Mission student's ledger art selected to hang in Congress

Cedar Hunt's recent painting, “Girl on Horse,” won the Congressional Art Competition for Montana’s First Congressional District, represented by U.S. Congressman Ryan Zinke, and will hang in the halls of Congress for the coming year.

Mission Valley Calendar
May 4, 2023 midnight

Mission Valley Calendar

MV Calendar: Your events guide to the Mission Valley

St. Luke at 70: Looking forward
May 4, 2023 midnight

St. Luke at 70: Looking forward

At the ripe old age of 70, St. Luke Community Healthcare Network has weathered winds of change that have sunk rural hospitals across the state and nation.

St. Luke at 70: Looking back
May 4, 2023 midnight

St. Luke at 70: Looking back

When St. Luke Hospital finally opened in 1953, after five years of community labor and donations, an editorial in the weekly Ronan Pioneer proclaimed it “a dream come true.”

Polson prevails again; Bulldogs drop two
May 4, 2023 midnight

Polson prevails again; Bulldogs drop two

The Pirates jumped on Whitefish for three runs in the first inning then had to come from behind in the fourth after trailing 5-4. The Mission Bulldogs dropped two games last week, losing to Florence-Carlton Wednesday, 19-4, and to the Plains/Hot Springs Horsemen 11-10 on Friday.

Frenchtown Invite punishes Polson, MAC
May 4, 2023 midnight

Frenchtown Invite punishes Polson, MAC

The Lady Pirates fell twice at the Frenchtown Invitational on Saturday. MAC’s pitchers prevailed in shutout games last Monday against Ronan and Tuesday against Loyola Sacred Heart. From there, they headed to the Frenchtown Invite to best the defending State A champion Broncs, 8-6 on Friday, followed by a loss to Class A Columbia Falls.

Sweet Home Montana Designs offers unique goods
May 4, 2023 midnight

Sweet Home Montana Designs offers unique goods

The bejeweled, life-size cheetah statue in the front window of Sweet Home Montana Designs draws customers to Krista Denning’s new shop. Located at 49487 U.S. Hwy. 93 in Polson, the light-filled store has clothing, home decor, small furniture, gifts and Montana items.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Spring Sports Calendar

Varsity teams across the Mission Valley play softball, baseball, tennis and track.

SKC student named a Montana Student Volunteer
May 4, 2023 midnight

SKC student named a Montana Student Volunteer

Jade Dempsey, a Salish Kootenai College elementary education student, is one of 12 Montana college students to receive 2023 Montana Student Volunteer Awards.

County Centennial plans underway
May 4, 2023 midnight

County Centennial plans underway

Election in 1923 set stage for Lake County’s formation

The first entry into the minutes of the Lake County Commissioners Office on Aug. 10, 1923, includes the following statement: “This is the day on which Lake County begins to function.”

Head Start powwow dancers celebrate
May 4, 2023 midnight

Head Start powwow dancers celebrate

It’s been three years since Head Start hosted a powwow, according to Jeanne Christopher, head of Early Childhood Services for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, as she officially opened the pow wow on April 28.

May 4, 2023 midnight

The silencing of democracy

Wednesday, April 26, 2023, was a sad day for Montana. The Montana House of Representatives voted along party lines to bar Representative Zooey Zephyr from the house chamber’s floor, anteroom, and gallery.

University athletes speak at Fields of Faith
May 4, 2023 midnight

University athletes speak at Fields of Faith

Polson’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes group hosted its fifth Fields of Faith at the Polson High School Stadium on April 26.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Assistance for Business Clinic comes to Ninepipes

The Montana Department of Labor and Industry, in partnership with the Polson Job Service, is offering an Assistance for Business Clinic (ABC) from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. May 18 at Ninepipes Lodge.

Volunteers help ready Polson golf course
May 4, 2023 midnight

Volunteers help ready Polson golf course

Golfers dot the fairways and greens of the Polson Bay Golf Course, 111 Bayview Drive. It’s spring, and the golf course is open. With green grass replacing brown, golf course clean up was sped along, thanks to a volunteer group of golfers.

Dean George Biesemeyer, 90
May 4, 2023 midnight

Dean George Biesemeyer, 90

Dean George Biesemeyer, age 90, passed away on March 1, 2023, at his home in Ronan.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Spring Mack Days: Totals rise with temperature

As the temperatures are rising so does the 2023 Spring Mack Days lake trout fishing total. Of the 591 registered anglers, 196 have turned in a whooping total of 28,176 lake trout entries with two weeks left in the event.

Polson goes undefeated in four matches
May 4, 2023 midnight

Polson goes undefeated in four matches

The Polson boys and girls’ tennis teams went undefeated during a week with four tennis matches in six days. The boys raised their record to 16-0 on the season and the girls are now 15-1.

Dozen teams compete in ARM Invitational
May 4, 2023 midnight

Dozen teams compete in ARM Invitational

Polson's Ashtyn Wagner and Drifter Skillicorn were the two Pirate tracksters invited to participate in the Russ Pilcher Top Ten meet in Missoula last Tuesday. Skillicorn showed up for his team again Saturday, taking second in the 200 meter and fourth in the 100 meter during the ARM Invitational meet in Whitefish.

May 4, 2023 midnight

On the agenda

Your guide to upcoming school board and city council meetings

May 4, 2023 midnight

Pace picks up for Ronan-Pablo highway projects

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) in partnership with Riverside Contracting launched a safety improvement project May 1 near Pablo on Glover Road, just west of U.S. Hwy 93.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Fort Connah plans Rendezvous

The Fort Connah Restoration Society is organizing at Father’s Day Weekend Rendezvous, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 17-18.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Marriages & Divorces

The following marriages and divorces were recently recorded at the Lake County Courthouse:

May 4, 2023 midnight

20th Judicial District Court News

A sampling of cases heard by Judge Kim Christopher April 27:

Doris Elvina Nadrau
May 4, 2023 midnight

Doris Elvina Nadrau

Doris Elvina Nadrau, 77, was born Nov. 14,1945, to Dorothy and Ray Nadrau and fell asleep in death on April 24, 2023.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Ronan Seniors: Recruiting board members

The Area VI Council on Aging is having a cookbook fundraiser. To submit a recipe, stop by and pick up a form.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Polson Seniors: Sneezing allergy moon

The “mesmerizing flower” full moon arrives May 5. I call it the sneezing pollen allergy moon.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Arlee dinner serves fresh, seasonal fare

A series of community dinners are bringing families, friends and neighbors together in Arlee. The next one is Monday, May 8.

Ron Kimmel
May 4, 2023 midnight

Ron Kimmel

On April 11, a blustery Tuesday evening, Ronald Evin Kimmel lost his battle with cancer.

May 4, 2023 midnight

Legals for May, 4 2023