Thursday, February 29
Polson police respond to gun-related incidents
Polson Police responded to two unrelated firearm incidents in the past week and both suspects were apprehended and taken into custody, according to Polson Police Chief George Simpson.
Lady Bulldogs end season one win away from State
Mission finished the year one win away from the state tournament, placing fourth overall at the Western B Divisional Tournament at Salish Kootenai College Feb. 22-24.
Arlee moves on to State Tournament
Arlee avenged an opening-round loss to Eureka in the battle for third-fourth place during the Western B Divisional Tournament at Salish Kootenai College, Feb. 22-24.
Maidens win one at Divisionals
The Maidens won one game at the Western A Divisional Tournament, Feb. 22-24 in Butte. While they didn’t place, Ronan was within striking distance of a state berth and ended the season with eight wins.
Chiefs fall in two at Divisionals
Ronan’s season ended at the Western A Divisional Tournament, as the Chiefs dropped two contests in Butte Feb. 22-23.
Legals for February, 29 2024
Federal agency says Energy Keepers managed lake level appropriately
Flathead Lake was 2,884.66 feet above sea level Feb. 28, 2023, and sat at 2886.12 feet Tuesday. But neither elevation predicts the summer ahead, or whether a lowered lake level will continue to frustrate boaters and businesses.
Voice of Democracy: Polson senior pens winning state essay, heads to D.C.
In an essay that captured first place in the statewide Voice of Democracy contest, Polson High senior Isabel Seeley explores the nation’s foundation, concluding that willingness to participate in our democracy is essential to our future.
On the Agenda
A calendar of upcoming public meetings
Mission Valley Calendar
Your events guide to the Mission Valley
Program explores the MMIP epidemic
The Flathead Reservation Human Rights Coalition hosts a Montana Conversation program with Buck Hitswithastick at 6 p.m. March 6 at the Mission Valley United Methodist Church at the top of Post Creek Hill.
Births at the Nesting Place
Recent births at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place in Polson:
Two tiers of justice at the Montana Supreme Court
“Equal justice under law” is such a foundational principle in our constitutional republic that the phrase is carved in stone above the entrance to the United States Supreme Court building in Washington, D.C.
Comments sought on non-member hunting regs
The Flathead Indian Reservation Advisory Board is seeking comments on the draft 2024-2025 Hunting Seasons, Shooting Hours and Limits for Migratory Waterfowl, Pheasants and Gray Partridge for non-member hunters.
Spring Debris Burning Season opens March 1
Spring debris burning season will open Friday, March 1. According to the CSKT Division of Fire, burning can help clear dead vegetation and clean up.
Choral Society still welcomes singers
Enjoy singing? There is still time to join the Mission Valley Choral Society as they prepare for their Spring Concert weekend, April 20-21.
Bonnie Kay Taylor
Bonnie Kay Taylor was born in Polson on June 3, 1942, to Mabel and Clinton Reum of St. Ignatius. Bonnie passed away Feb. 8, 2024, in a Missoula hospital from complications following a stroke.
Katherine Kaye Griffin
Kathryn Kaye Griffin was born Feb. 24, 2017, in Missoula, to loving parents Joshua and Christina Griffin. Katie lived her almost 7 years of life in Charlo, until she was called home to her Heavenly Father after a vehicle accident on Feb. 15, 2024. A visitation will be held Friday, March 1, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Ronan from 7-9 p.m. Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 2, 2024, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at 1 p.m. in Ronan.
Ila Kaye Griffin, 1944-2024
On Feb. 15, 2024, Ila Kaye Griffin, our beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and great grandmother lost her life in a tragic car accident along with her cherished granddaughter, Katie Griffin.
Sentencing deferred for damage to pot shop
A Polson man, Chadron Thomas Martin, 27, had the imposition of sentencing on one count of felony criminal mischief deferred for two years in Polson District Court on Feb 21. Martin, who admitted to causing thousands of dollars in damage at a marijuana dispensary, pleaded guilty to the charge during a change of plea hearing Jan. 3.
Bill Pittsley, 52
Bill Pittsley, age 52, passed away Nov. 1, 2023, in Libby, where he lived with his wife, Celeste. He attended school in Missoula, Butte and Tacoma, Wash., and graduated from Polson.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Indian tacos on tap March 6
We are still in need of a site manager/nutrition director to work 10-15 hours a week and a housekeeper for two hours a week. If you are interested or know of someone, please call 406-745-4462 and let us know.
Ronan Seniors: Tax help available
AARP tax preparers will be here every Wednesday through April 10. They will prepare taxes for any age and income level. Give us a call to sign up for this great service at 406-676-2371.
Polson Seniors: On the cusp of March
March has been described as coming in like a lion and out like a lamb. Although March 19 is the first day of Spring (9:06 p.m. MST), it is okay to say March 20 is the first daylight of Spring.
Laws, compassion and common sense
When God appeared to Solomon in a dream God offered him anything he wanted. Solomon asked to be given wisdom. He did not ask for power or long life. He asked for the wisdom to do the right thing. But then there’s politics, where wisdom and compassion are seen as weaknesses.
Chamber honors community leaders during Nashville Nights
Nashville Nights was the theme of Polson Chamber of Commerce’s Community Awards Night on Feb. 24. Guests got into the spirit of the event with hats, boots, jeans and bling.
Clay Benkelman, 73
Dr. Clay E. Benkelman, 73, passed away Jan. 23, 2024, at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and eye doctor to many.
Joanne Blood, 71
Joanne Blood, age 71, passed away peacefully on Feb. 8, 2024, due to long-term health issues.
Knoll signs with MSU-Northern
Jake Knoll didn’t start playing football as a running back, but he will certainly be doing just that at Montana State University-Northern.
Lady Vikings bow out at Divisionals
Charlo battled through the Western C Divisional Tournament in Frenchtown on Feb. 22-24, winning one game and losing two others. That concluded the Lady Vikings season, which included a district championship and a regular season league title.
Wednesday, February 28
Legals for February, 28 2024
Tuesday, February 27
Concordia Choir works with Polson High School choir
With 65 voices singing in harmony, conductor Michael Culloton brings The Concordia Choir from Moorhead, Minn., to perform in Missoula at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 5, at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Prior to the concert, the choir have a song share event with the Polson High School choir, which is taught by Concordia College alumna Kaylee Shirtliff. The two choirs will perform songs for each other.
Monday, February 26
FWP changes state park reservation system
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has implemented some changes to the reservation system for state parks, designed to make it easier for Montana residents to secure campsites during the hectic summer months.
Two Eagle ends season at Divisionals
Two Eagle’s season ended with two losses at the Western C Divisional Tournament in Frenchtown Feb. 22-23. The Eagles dropped contests to Harrison and Lincoln to finish the year 15-8.
Thursday, February 22
Houle admits to attempted gas-station robbery
A Pablo man admitted to brandishing a gun in an effort to steal money from a gas station. Josiah Michael Houle, 39, entered a plea of guilty in Polson District Court Feb. 14 to felony robbery.
Is Trump too young?
Is Biden too old? Try asking this: "Is Trump too young?"
Legals for February, 22 2024
Ryan Busse introduces running mate at SKC
Salish Kootenai College was the first stop in gubernatorial candidate Ryan Busse’s swing through Montana this week to introduce his running mate, Helena attorney Raph Graybill.
Tourism plan emphasizes stewardship
Glacier Country brought its Destination Stewardship Plan for tourism to a town meeting at the Ronan Community Center on Feb. 13. With approximately 14 people in the audience, the turnout was low but the input was high.
Lady Bulldogs win District Tournament
Mission’s defense was stout, and its offense was consistent in a 49-37 victory over Thompson Falls for the Western 7B District Championship on Saturday, Feb. 17, in St. Ignatius.
Polson Police adds two officers, commends a third
In early February, Polson Police Chief George Simpson introduced two new police officers, Kyle Kearney and Isaiah Williams, to the Polson City Commission. He also presented a letter of commendation to a third officer, Marcus Lindquist, for helping 911 dispatchers during a Dec. 10 shooting in Ferndale.
Greater Polson Community Foundation awards trust-based grants
In honor of the value the non-profit sector adds to the community’s well-being, the Greater Polson Community Foundation celebrated February, “the month of love,” by sending Valentines and Trust-Based Grant funds to select local non-profits.
Sharbono signs with Hastings College
Aubrey Sharbono has been a force on the wrestling mat for the Mission-Charlo wrestling program these past two years. She is now bringing her talents to Hastings College in Nebraska.
Lady Vikings claim 14C District Championship
Charlo hasn't lost to a Western 14C team this season, and they aren't about to start. The Lady Vikings picked up a 53-27 win over Hot Springs in the district championship game on Saturday, Feb. 17, in Polson. Two Eagle River took fourth in the tournament.
Two Eagle falls to St. Regis to place second at District
St. Regis surged in the middle quarters for a 64-53 Western 14C District Tournament championship, as Two Eagle finished second Saturday, Feb. 17, in Polson. Charlo's season ended Saturday after a loss to Noxon.
Mission, Arlee each place fourth at District
Mission mounted a comeback against Plains but ultimately fell 52-50 to place fourth at the Western 7B District Tournament in St. Ignatius on Saturday, Feb. 17.
The Awe Factor: Polson senior Kai McDonald heads to National meet
“There’s one part of my piece where I throw myself on the ground. I catch myself with my arms, and I kind of slowly lower myself and lay down. Every time a judge sees it, they are kind of left in awe,” Kai McDonald said, smiling.
Maidens knock Polson, Whitefish out of Postseason
Ronan ended Polson’s season with a 46-36 victory during the play-in round of the Western A Divisional Tournament on Saturday, Feb. 17, in Polson. The Maidens also knocked Whitefish out of the fray by a score of 49-37 on Thursday, Feb. 15
Ronan Chiefs advance in Western A Divisional
The Chiefs advanced past the play-in stage of the Western A Divisional Tournament, downing Whitefish 52-35 on Saturday, Feb. 18, in Polson, and dispatching the Libby Loggers 73-44 last Thursday.
Wain Alexander Lefthand, 65
Wain Alexander Lefthand was born to Alexander Lefthand and Josephine (Caye) Lefthand on Nov. 3, 1958, in Hot Springs. He was the last living child of nine. Wain passed away peacefully at his home in Elmo on Feb. 18, 2024.
FLIC showcases other lives, places, stories
On a cold and snowy winter weekend, the Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC) provided an interesting and fun indoor event at Showboat Stadium 6.
Alvin Lee, 85
Alvin Frank Lee (Joe), 85, of Polson, passed away Feb. 8 at his home surrounded by his son, Brad Lee, wife, Dolores, and stepdaughters, Nancy Wallace and Susan Lambert.
Mortgage bills next step in property tax increase
Well, the next step in your residential property tax increase is happening. Banks are sending updated “mortgage bills” to homeowners.
Polson man pleads not guilty to forging car title
A Polson man is accused of falsifying documents as a means to gain control over a vehicle. Dillon Michael Stiles, 32, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court Feb. 14 to felony charges of forgery and identity theft.
Mission Valley Calendar
Your events guide to the Mission Valley
Correction (and apology)
Leader editor Kristi Niemeyer goofed up on the front page of last week’s paper, substituting Craig McClure for Craig McCrea in the opening line of a story about McCrea’s conviction on two counts of arson.
Time to elect different leadership
I am really getting tired of our current state government policies and leadership. We are number one in the nation for homelessness – way to go super majority legislature!
Replace Biden dictatorship
Currently our democracy is lost unless we stand up against the tyranny of the Biden administration and the progressive Left. The dictatorial Left under the Biden administration has removed many of our freedoms and is attacking others.
Neal Lewing celebrates "50 Years of Montana Gold"
Neal Lewing, a lifelong Montana singer/songwriter, actor, playwright, poet, author and educator, will return to the University of Montana Feb. 25 to celebrate 50 years since matriculating as a professional entertainer and help raise awareness of the need for music and musicians. Proceeds benefit the UM Music Scholarship program.
On the Agenda
Public meetings coming up in Lake County
Shiver in the River lands in a pool
Thirty-five intrepid souls leaped off the dock at Riverside Park in Polson Saturday during Shiver in the River, the annual fundraiser for Special Olympics Montana. But this year, instead of plunging into the frigid Flathead River, they landed in an ice-infused swimming pool.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Site manager, housekeeper needed
We have a bookkeeper on staff, but the center is still looking for a site manager/nutrition director to work 10-15 hours a week. We are also looking for a housekeeper for two hours a week to mop and vacuum the main room of the center and clean two bathrooms once a week.
Climate Conversation: Predictions from the 1990s are coming true
Watching the vice-grip of climate change take hold, I’m beginning to understand how our grandparents must have felt in the 1930s as something equally horrible, fascism, took hold in Europe and Asia, and the world slowly marched to a war that would kill 38 million people. I have kids and grandkids, and I’m increasingly afraid for their future.
Did Jesus tell us to bear false witness and lie?
I have a bumper sticker featuring a quote from Gandhi. It says, “I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. They are so unlike your Christ.”
Two men admit to threatening juveniles
Two men have admitted threatening juveniles with a firearm in an altercation that culminated in a pursuit with law enforcement. Izayus Prewett, 18, and Nathan Videl Caye, 22, each entered into plea agreements on separate charges.
Appreciates Zinke remarks
I would like to commend Rep. Ryan Zinke for his remarks made Feb. 1 after a Congressional Executive Commission on China (CECC) hearing to assess the recent U.N. review of China’s human rights record.
Ronan Seniors: Memory Café returns
Memory Café returns from 2-4 p.m. March 6. If you have any questions call Danika at 406-409-8149.
Polson Seniors: Calendar plays catch-up on Leap Day
Leap Day is Feb. 29. The extra day added every four years at the end of February allows the human-made calendar to “catch up” to the actual orbit time of the earth around the sun (365.25 days). You cannot fool Nature – it runs on astronomical time, not Mountain Standard Time.
Wednesday, February 21
Legals for February, 21 2024
Monday, February 19
Registration open now for hunters ed classes
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks team up to offer a Hunters Education Class in early April.
Friday, February 16
Bad roads contribute to double fatality
Snow and icy roads contributed to a fatal collision on Highway 93 Thursday evening that killed 80-year-old Ila Griffin, and her passenger, 7-year-old Kathryn Griffin, of Ronan.
Thursday, February 15
FLIC celebrates its first dozen years Feb. 16-18
Now in its 12th year, the Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC) offers a diverse selection of domestic and international films screening Feb. 16-18 at Showboat Stadium 6 in Polson. Encore screenings continue at 7 p.m. nightly, Feb. 18-22.
Time Capsule: Now there was a fight – er, dance
From the Mission Valley News, Feb. 7, 1979: Oh, the dances they had up Valley Creek! The Morins, Morigeaus, Hansens, and Whites had come as homesteaders. Their homes were scattered up Valley Creek. All week every member of the family worked hard, putting up buildings, tilling the virgin soil, fulfilling the requirements of the Homestead Act.
Matthew Emerson, 47
Matthew Joseph Emerson quietly passed away in his home located in Huachuca City, Ariz., on Nov. 12, 2023. He suffered from severe health issues during the last year of his life, finally succumbing to death by natural causes.
Mission man admits to striking, killing friend with vehicle
A St. Ignatius man admitted to striking a friend and fellow party attendee with his truck and killing the man. Tommy Van Mahseelah, 20, entered a plea of guilty in Polson District Court Feb. 7 to felony negligent homicide.
Leaders failing Montanans on public land policies
We all agree that we want more public land; we want that land better maintained and we want better access to those lands. Why don’t we at least have that?
Barbara Namen, 80
Beautiful Barbara Jean Namen passed surrounded by family and friends at her Polson home on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, at the age of 80. We would love you to join us at her Celebration of Life at the Polson Community Church at noon on Feb. 10, 2024.
Let us act like a great nation
I am reading a history of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin and their role together in the creation of America. It depresses me greatly. It depresses me because of the stark contrast with the caliber of people we now elect to office.
Polson Seniors: Looking for nutrition director
Applications are now being accepted for the position of Program Director for Nutrition. Wage depends on experience, and the shift is from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Elsie Mae Brown, 95
Elsie Mae (Funk) Brown, age 95, passed away on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, at her residence in Polson.
On the Agenda
Meetings of local government entities
Ronan Seniors: Tax help available
AARP tax preparers will be here every Wednesday through April 10. They will prepare taxes for any age and income level. Give us a call to sign up for this great service at 406-676-2371.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Looking for a site manager
A special “thank-you” to all who came and played bingo on Saturday, Feb. 10. The blackout prize was $100 this time. We will have our next bingo on March 9 at 2 p.m.
Drew Hubatsek, 72
Drew William Hubatsek, 72, of Woods Bay, passed away Feb. 5, 2024.
Class B Boys: Arlee finishes regular season with win over Darby
Arlee scored at least 20 points in each of the first three quarters to defeat Darby 79-40 Saturday, and finished the regular season campaign in the Western 6B with a record of 7-2.
Class C Boys: Charlo, Two Eagle tie for no. 2 spot
Charlo wraps up regular season with Alberton win; Two Eagle falls to St. Regis but picks up two wins.
Class C Girls: Two Eagle, Charlo post wins
Two Eagle girls down St. Regis, bow to Noxon; Charlo slices past Hot Springs
Chiefs win rivalry matchup against Polson
Polson battled its way back, but Ronan ultimately proved the victor, winning the Lake County rivalry matchup against their nearby foe 44-32 in Northwestern A Conference action on Saturday, Feb. 10.
Polson girls score close win over Ronan rivals
The Lake County rivalry rematch between Polson and Ronan on Saturday, Feb. 10, was an important battle for the pecking order of the Northwest A Conference standings as the regular season draws to an end. The Lady Pirates and Maidens hung in the balance until the end, but Polson returned with the 37-36 victory.
Class B Girls: Lady Bulldogs finish regular season No. 1 in league
Mission blasted its way past Plains in the first half last Saturday en route to an 80-18 Western 7B victory, concluding the regular season with the league championship.
Ronan Girls win second state wrestling title
The Ronan Girls won their second-straight championship at the All-State Girls Wrestling Tournament on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 9-10, filling up the podium at MetraPark in Billings with several champs and placers.
Polson swimmers claim second and fifth at State
Polson piled up the medals at the 2024 MHSA State Swim Meet over the weekend in Great Falls. The Polson boys took second place in the State AB meet with two state champions, while the Polson girls took fifth.
Attorney files for embattled judge's seat
Local attorney Britt Cotter filed last week for the District Court seat currently held by embattled Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher.
"Aghast" foils Spelling Bee contestant
St. Ignatius fourth grader Kysen Incashola almost won the Lake County Spelling Bee until he fumbled “aghast,” after precisely spelling “milligram.” The faux pas landed him back in the competition, which was ultimately won by Charlo fifth grader Apollonia Hall, who correctly spelled “cupidity” and “methane.”
Mission Valley Calendar
Your events guide to the Mission Valley
Setting the Medicaid record straight
Plain and simple — people get sick. Right now, more than 250,000 predominantly low-income Montanans get help with health care through Medicaid — a state-federal partnership. Montana has overall and primary responsibility, while the Feds pick up most of the costs, averaging 80% (of total Medicaid spending).
Jury finds Craig McCrea guilty of igniting Boulder 2700 fire
Former firefighter Craig McCrea was found guilty last Thursday on two of four counts of arson after a dramatic four-day trial at the Lake County Courthouse.
Legals for February, 15 2024
Two men plead guilty to weapon, endangerment charges
Two men have admitted threatening juveniles with a firearm in an altercation that culminated in a pursuit with law enforcement. Izayus Prewett, 18, and Nathan Videl Caye, 22, each entered into plea agreements on separate charges.
Wednesday, February 14
Legals for February, 14 2024
Thursday, February 8
Hospital directors say Medicaid expansion crucial to Lake County
Two hospital administrators and the former head of the state Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) sat in on a Democratic Party-sponsored listening tour Jan. 25 at the senior center in Ronan. At the top of their list of concerns was whether the 2025 Legislature was likely to support reauthorization of Medicaid expansion.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Play bingo Feb. 10
The St. Ignatius center is hosting bingo at 2 p.m. Feb. 10 with a special blackout prize.
Flathead near normal, but many sites report lowest snowpack on record
At the beginning of January more than half of NRCS snow monitoring stations in Montana and surrounding river basins reported their lowest snowpack on record. The exception was the northern Flathead and Kootenai River basins in Montana where total monthly precipitation was near normal.
C Girls: Charlo girls improve league mark to 7-0
Charlo’s Lady Vikings went on a 21-1 run in the second quarter on their way to a 60-17 Western 14C victory over Noxon Saturday, Feb. 3. They also powered past St. Regis 60-22.
C Boys: Two Eagle surges past Hot Springs twice; Charlo bests Noxon
Vikings, Two Eagle best Noxon; Two Eagle tames Hot Springs Savage Heat twice.
B Boys: Loyola ends Arlee's seven-game winning streak
League-leading Missoula-Loyola downed Arlee 68-58 in a key Western 6B matchup in Missoula Saturday, Feb. 3, ending the Warriors seven-game winning streak. The Warriors also picked up wins to Deer Lodge and Florence-Carlton. Eureka and Troy triumphed against Mission.
B Girls: Mission bests Troy; ends winning streak to Eureka
Mission shut out Troy in the fourth quarter and held the Lady Trojans to just six points in each half as they came away with a 56-12 Western 7B victory on Friday, Feb. 2. Eureka surged in the third quarter to beat Mission 64-59 Thursday, Feb. 1.
A Girls: Lady Pirates best Libby; Maidens lose to Browning, Whitefish
In a low-scoring defensive battle, Polson picked up a 35-30 Northwest A Conference victory over Libby Saturday, Feb. 3. The win improved the Lady Pirates to 4-5 in league and 7-8 overall. Ronan dropped games to Browning, Whitefish, falling to 3-6 in league play and 5-10 overall.
A Boys: Ronan, Polson lose to Conference powerhouses Browning and Bigfork
Browning scored 32 points in the second quarter en route to a 77-54 Northwest A Conference victory over Ronan on Saturday, Feb. 3; the Chiefs also fell to Whitefish. Polson hung with Bigfork in the first half, but a 14-8 run by the Vikings in the third quarter was a key difference in the Pirates' 61-41 loss Jan. 30; the Pirates also succumbed to the Libby Loggers by just one point.
Mission-Charlo Girls claim third, fourth places at Divisionals
Mission-Charlo’s Aubrey Sharbono improved her tournament record to 23-8 with a third-place finish at 145 pounds at the Western B/C Divisional Wrestling Tournament in Shelby.
Glacier Country hosts town hall in Ronan
Western Montana's Glacier Country hosts a Town Hall Feb. 13 in Ronan to gather input on its community-driven Destination Stewardship Plan, designed to help balance increased visitation with the long-term health and vibrancy of Western Montana’s communities, natural resources and quality of life for residents.
McCauley faces third charge of PFMA
A Polson man with two prior convictions for partner or family member assault is now facing a third. Tyler James McCauley, 37, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court Feb. 1, to felony PFMA, third or subsequent.
Fake electors still faking it
The smooth transition of U.S. Presidential power came to an end after 225 years due to Donald Trump. The work of many, highly placed Republicans is responsible for this debacle.
Mission West offers free business workshops
Mission West Community Development Partners is offering free online workshops in February, geared toward businesses.
Cheerful Heart helps out cancer patients
Cheerful Heart is nonprofit organization that helps Lake County cancer patients who are currently in treatment by providing non-medical services at no cost.
Ronan Seniors: Fill up for Super Bowl
Among their other meals, the Senior Center is serving roast pork dinner Sunday, Feb. 11. Fill up before the Super Bowl!
Baby Fair: Love at First Sight
“Love at First Sight” was the theme of the 2024 Baby Fair, held Feb. 3 at the Joe McDonald Health and Fitness Center on the campus of Salish Kootenai College.
Time Capsule: Fighting the polio epidemic
From the Ronan Pioneer, Jan. 20, 1949: Polio epidemics, sales tax proponents, legislative assignments
Marriages & Divorces
The following marriages and divorces were recently recorded at the Lake County Courthouse in Polson:
More wilderness, not less
Senator Daines’ Montana Sportsmen Conservation Act permanently withdraws three Montana Wilderness Study Areas from wilderness consideration.
Donald McMillan, 86
Donald James McMillan, 86, passed away peacefully on Jan. 27, 2024, in Sun City, Ariz. He was born Feb. 15, 1937, in Los Angeles, Calif., and raised in Butte, Mont.
Polson Seniors: Tax assistance available
The Senior Center is providing AARP Tax Assistance on Mondays or Thursdays, through April 15. Call to set an appointment time. Pick up your packet and forms at the center prior to your appointment.
Helen McMillan, 84
Helen Allene (Ashley) McMillan, 84, passed away peacefully Jan. 17, 2024, in Sun City, Ariz. She was born Aug. 26, 1939, in Spokane, Wash., and raised in Butte.
Neil "Doc"John Holliday, 83
Neil "Doc" John Holliday of Columbia Falls died Jan. 27, 2024.
Garnet Crusch Stuerke
Garnet Crusch Stuerke of Polson was born on April 15, 1949, in Williston, N.D. She was the first child born to Cecil and Geraldine (Egosque) Crusch.
Kenneth Carl Nordberg, 79
Kenneth Carl Nordberg, age 79, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024 at his residence in Polson.
Carl Wall, 85
Carl “Jay” Wall, age 85, of Ronan passed away Jan. 30, 2024. A burial will take place at Western Montana State Veteran’s Cemetery in Missoula.
Arlee man sentenced for assaulting child
An Arlee man was sentenced in Polson District Court Jan. 29 to the Montana State Prison for 20 years, with 15 years suspended, for assaulting a child. Glenn Elliott Fortner, 64, pleaded guilty to the assault charge as part of a plea agreement reached during an earlier court appearance.
Man accused of erratic driving enters Alford plea
A Bigfork man, accused of endangering the lives of others with his driving habits, admits that a jury would likely convict him of doing so. Joshua Wayne Winfree, 34, entered an Alford plea in Polson District Court Jan. 30, to felony criminal endangerment.
Charlo man denies stealing safe
A Charlo man was identified from a photo line-up as the suspect in a case of theft involving a woman’s safe. Joshua Michael Vander Ploeg, 27, entered a plea of not guilty to felony theft in Polson District Court on Feb. 1.
Polson man admits to theft, heroin possession
A Polson man admitted to stealing a safe containing guns, heroin possession, and missing court appearances. Cirdan Zachorius Nader, 30, entered a plea of guilty in Polson District Court last Thursday to felony charges of theft, criminal possession of dangerous drugs and two counts of bail jumping.
Cloud sentenced for stabbing juvenile
A Lake County woman who admitted to stabbing a juvenile was committed in Polson District Court Jan. 30 to the Montana Department of Corrections for 10 years, with five years suspended.
Citizen ballots are democracy in action
Currently there are six ballot initiatives approved by the Secretary of State for signature gathering. Several are sponsored by single individuals – one by a young teenage girl! These are Montanans!
Comments sought on CSKT regulatory changes
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes recently announced proposed changes to the Hunting, Fishing and Recreation Regulations for CSKT members, effective March 1, 2024-Feb. 28, 2025.
Ronan boys win Western A Divisional
Ronan won the Western A Divisional team championship on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 2-3, in Hamilton, with four wrestlers claiming divisional championships.
Ronan Girls named Divisional champs; Polson no. 2
Ronan had six divisional champions as the Maidens won the Western A Divisional Tournament on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 2-3, in Hamilton. Polson girls placed second.
Varsity Sports Calendar
Wrestling heads to Billings for State; varsity basketball continues
Jury finds Craig McCrea guilty of two counts of felony arson
During opening statements in the trial against accused arsonist Craig McCrea, Assistant Attorney General Thorin Geist told jurors what to expect from the prosecution as the trial unfolded this week at the Lake County Courthouse. After three days of testimony, they began deliberations around 11:30 a.m. Thursday, and emerged five hours later with a verdict of guilty on two of four charges of arson.
Legals for February, 8 2024
On the agenda
Schedule of upcoming public meetings
Mission Valley Calendar
Your events guide to the Mission Valley
Wednesday, February 7
Legals for February, 7 2024
Thursday, February 1
Ronan Seniors: Dues are due
Dues are due for 2024: $10 per person.
Polson Seniors: Wood Carving offered
The Senior Center is providing AARP Tax Assistance on Mondays or Thursdays, through April 15. A new activity: Wood Carving for beginners! Sign up at the center and leave a phone number for more information.
Alice Stillwell
Alice Lorraine (Hiebert) Stillwell of Polson passed away Jan. 22. She was born Feb. 25, 1930, to David and Aimee (Rush) Heibert.
Houle jailed for attempted robbery
A Pablo man is accused of brandishing a firearm at a gas station in Pablo in an attempt to steal money. Josiah Michael Houle, 39, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court Jan. 25 to felony robbery.
Clay Benkelman, 73
Clay Benkelman died Jan. 23 in Missoula with his family by his side.
Tree removal rescheduled for Feb. 1
A dead tree will be removed Thursday, Feb. 1, closing a portion of Highway 35 south of Woods Bay for about two hours, from 10 a.m.-noon. The road closure was originally slated for Monday.
Class B Girls: Lady Bulldogs win 10th straight game
Mission won its 10th straight game, downing Anaconda 61-60 in nonleague road action on Saturday, Jan. 27.
Class B Boys: Warriors continue to roll
Arlee had a big first quarter and picked up a rivalry victory over nonleague foe Charlo 67-55 at home on Saturday, Jan. 27, and added a win over Deer Lodge. Meanwhile, Mission picked up its second season win over Troy.
Herbert Webb, 64
Herbert "Herb" E. Webb, 64, of Polson, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 6, at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula.
Class A Girls: Local teams pick up wins
Lady Pirates fall to Browning and stump Libby; Maidens topple Libby and Whitefish, fall to Columbia Falls.
Legals for February, 1 2024
Lively Library: The North Lake County Library prepares to reopen
It’s been years in the planning and a year in the building, but Polson’s North Lake County Library is about to open its doors to an eager community.
To know your judge, consider their actions
Recently, while sitting in our family's fictitious library room, I read Legislative Notes, those by Rep. Usher. His article brought up an important subject, Montana judges. He said that in spite of their apparent impartiality they "... are in fact politicians."
Trial begins Friday for accused arsonist Craig McCrea
A jury trial for accused arsonist Craig Allen McCrea begins Friday with jury selection at the Ronan Community Center. The trial begins Monday at the Lake County Courthouse with opening statements. McCrea is accused of intentionally igniting the devastating Boulder 2700 fire in August 2021, and two smaller fires the month prior.
Beverly Jean Hart, 79
Beverly Jean Hart, 79, a resident of Missoula, and formerly of Polson, left us on Jan. 21, 2024, at St. Patrick Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family, after bravely facing the challenges of a stroke. A graveside service to celebrate Jeannie’s life will be held on a later date at Lake View Cemetery in Polson.
Duck Boat Dynasty: Middle schoolers build inventive cardboard crafts
A flotilla of cardboard boats, held together with duct tape and ingenuity, churned across the Mission Valley Aquatic Center pool last Wednesday and Thursday, each with its own Polson Middle School rowing crew.
Time Capsule: From the weekly archives
News items harvested from the archives of Lake County's weekly newspapers
Lumpry sentenced for burglary, criminal mischief
Randall J. Lumpry, 34, of Ronan entered a plea of guilty and was sentenced on charges of felony burglary, misdemeanor criminal mischief, and violating conditions of a conditional release during an appearance Jan. 24 in Polson District Court.
A new way to connect with your legislators
There’s a new resource available to the public to stay up to speed on what is happening at the Legislature that I’d like to make you aware of. Last year, the Senate Republican caucus launched an email newsletter that anyone can subscribe to.
On the Agenda
Upcoming public meetings in Lake County
MV Calendar: Your events guide to the Mission Valley
Music, theatre, film and more: Your events guide to the Mission Valley.
Class A Boys: Chiefs post ninth win
Tayen Edmo hit a three-pointer at the buzzer to lift Ronan past Libby in exciting Northwest A play on Saturday, Jan. 27. It was one of two three-pointers for Edmo, and the Chiefs' ninth win of the season. The Pirates also picked up its first conference victory of the season, downing Libby 51-46.
Winter Sports Calendar
Varsity teams compete in basketball and wrestling
A rube arrives in Trout Creek
I had been eyeballing a piece of property in Trout Creek for about a year. It was cheap enough, I had the money, why not? So, I bought it.
Players bring murder-mystery to KwaTaqNuk
The Port Polson Players have teamed up with KwaTaqNuk Resort to stage “My Fatal Valentine,” an old-fashioned dinner theatre murder-mystery, Feb. 9-11.
Self-reliance seminar set for Feb. 10
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints hosts a Self-Reliance and Preparedness seminar, Saturday, Feb 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Guest speakers, displays, handouts and information address a variety of useful topics.
Judge Owen chastises no-show jurors, absent suspect
Disobeying an order from the court and “no show” jurors prompted a lecture from Judge Molly Owen in Polson District Court Jan. 24.
Koda King: “An exceptionally positive and contagious attitude”
Ronan High School’s boys wrestling team is having a great year, and junior Koda King is in the thick of it, wrestling in the 152-pound class. The highly motivated student athlete is the recipient of the Winslow Nichols Leadership Award from Logan Health.
Ronan council refunds subdivision fee
During the Ronan City Council meeting last Wednesday, Jan. 24, council members voted to refund $610 in planning fees to Scott Beggs for a proposed subdivision.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Meals go up $1
There is some news that we need to let everyone know: there will be an increase in the cost of the meals by $1 in February due to the increased cost of food, power, heat and other supplies.
Ronan Hall of Fame inducts third class
The Ronan Hall of Fame Induction ceremony, postponed due to cold weather and blizzard conditions in early January, was held last Saturday at the Ronan Community Center.
Montana’s public lands should be run by Montanans
As a fifth-generation Montanan, I have fond memories with my Grandpa Daines of learning how to fish and hunt north of Big Timber, and my goal is to pass these traditions on to my own children and grandchildren.
McElwee finishes second at Missoula Invite
Polson had several placers at the Missoula Invite on Saturday, Jan. 27, including two top five finishes against Class A schools in the relays.
Mission Valley Championships yield several local champs
Several Lake County teams competed at the Mission Valley Championships, held Saturday at St. Ignatius High School, with wrestlers from each school landing on the podium.
Class C Girls: Charlo remains undefeated in league play
The Lady Viking defense held Two Eagle to single digits in three separate quarters on their way to a 58-27 Western 14C victory over Two Eagle on Friday, Jan. 26. The win kept Charlo undefeated in league play at 5-0 and 8-4 overall, while Two Eagle fell to 0-3 in league play and 3-9 overall.
Lodge Grass man accused of assaulting child
Jordale Stephen Not Afraid, 34, entered a plea of not guilty to the charge of sexually assaulting a child in Polson District Court.
Class C Boys: Charlo tops Two Eagle
In a key Western 14C matchup, Charlo downed Two Eagle 66-54 on Friday, Jan. 26, as Karson Cox and Hayden Hollow each put on a show for the Viking home crowd.
