Ellington

Marta Lee Whitlock, 69

Marta Lee Whitlock, a much beloved and larger-than-life figure to the people and animals around her, left this Earth on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. She died peacefully at the home she and her husband, Dave, built overlooking Flathead Lake, just outside of Polson.

Washington man admits to killing eagles on reservation

A Washington man admitted last Wednesday, March 20, to conspiring to hunt and kill bald and golden eagles on the Flathead Indian Reservation and then selling them on the black market across the United States and elsewhere. Sentencing is set for July 31.

Mission Valley Calendar

Your guide to Mission Valley events

Applications due by April 8 to fill judicial vacancy

In the wake of Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher’s announcement last week that she’s resigning from the bench effective April 5, Governor Greg Gianforte announced this week that his office is now accepting applications and nominations to fill her vacancy in the Twentieth Judicial District. The chief justice of the Montana Supreme Court, Mike McGrath, notified the governor of the impending vacancy March 21, and nominations are due by April 8.

Drone curriculum takes flight in Polson Middle School

Just the word “drone” entices kids; they want to get their hands on the intricate machines and learn how to fly them. If they attend Polson Middle School, they are in luck.

CSKT offers to loan bear-resistant garbage cans

To facilitate Bear Smart practices in local communities, CSKT is continuing its Bear-Resistant Garbage Can Loaner Program to reservation residents who self-haul garbage to a local transfer station.

Willard Carroll Nelson, 79

On March 16, 2024, our wonderful father, Willard Carroll Nelson, age 79 of Charlo, and Carmen's loving husband, went into God's embrace.

Commissioners ask AG for meeting

The Lake County Commissioners sent the following letter to Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen on Tuesday: We are writing today to invite you to meet with the Lake County Commission for the purpose of discussing ways forward in light of Lake County's reluctant withdrawal of its consent to Public Law 280 enforcement on the Flathead Reservation.

Landowners object to FWS efforts to use conservation lands for new headquarters

Dean Vaughan, a biologist who has worked for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for more than 30 years, was finishing a conference call in his home office south of Charlo last October when he noticed something unusual happening at the property across the road.

Softball season underway for Maidens, Lady Pirates

Polson opened its 2024 campaign with an 8-0 victory over Flathead in just two innings of play due to inclement weather on Saturday, March 23. Ronan made a furious comeback in their season opener against Hamilton, but they ultimately fell 11-10 on the road

The week's baseball roundup

Polson loses to Co-Falls, blasts past Browning and Thompson Falls/Noxon; Ronan loses games to Bigfork, Co-Falls

Meeting to discuss creation of Draft Horse Driving Club

The Montana Draft Horse and Mule Association is working with interested groups to form a local/regional draft driving club in the Mission Valley. An exploratory meeting is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, April 28, at the Ronan Community Center.

Blustery week two of Mack Days causes anglers to retreat

Two weeks are in the books for the 2024 Spring Mack Days Fishing Event on Flathead Lake. Anglers went from one weather extreme to another in the first two weeks of the nine-week-long event.

Let's keep our wild places wild

Wilderness Study Areas like the Sapphires represent some of our state’s greatest reservoirs of wildlife habitat, clean water and solitude for those who visit. It’s places like our WSAs that brought me to Montana and why I’ll never leave.

Filing deadline for school board trustees is March 28

Looking for a challenging and rewarding way to contribute to the community? Seats are open on every school board in Lake County. But hurry: the filing deadline is today, March 28.

Bob Gauthier honored for lifetime of leadership

During the annual meeting of the United Native American Housing Association (UNAHA), held March 25 in Denver, CSKT tribal member Bob Gauthier was honored for his lifetime of achievements regarding Native American housing throughout Indian Country.

Water supply vs. water demand

Two years ago when the city was asked to approve the annexation of CSKT ground near the KOA for a new casino, our city manager publicly assured the concerned residents that water supply was not an issue.

Uncharted territory: U.S. Attorney paints bleak picture of 280 withdrawal

During a meeting that lasted more than an hour, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich and U.S. Assistant Attorney Ryan Weldon sought to map the law-enforcement landscape in Lake County after the county officially withdraws from Public Law 280 on May 20. They painted a rather bleak and muddled picture.

Ninepipes hosts inaugural Easter egg hunt and bazaar

Sunday’s surprise snow around Ninepipes Lodge was dotted with brightly colored Easter eggs, and children in hats, mittens, and warm boots hunting for them.

Bringing the Electoral College into the 21st Century

The ability to have a say in government by voting is the bedrock principle of democracy. Because of that, every vote should be of equal value and carry the same weight. That is true for every political office in the United States except for the office of the presidency where some people’s votes carry more weight than others depending on which state they vote in.

March births at the Nesting Place

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

Speaker explores "Climate Conversations Across Differences"

The Flathead Reservation Human Rights Coalition hosts “Climate Conversations Across Differences” at 7 p.m. April 3 at the Mission Valley United Methodist Church atop Post Creek Hill, north of St. Ignatius.

Polson Bridge slated for biennial inspection

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) plans to inspect the Polson Bridge on U.S. Highway 93 during the week of April 1, weather permitting. The bridge crosses the Flathead River in the heart of Polson.

Driver in high-speed chase charged with endangering motorists

A Ronan man is accused of endangering other motorists during a pursuit with law enforcement. Daylan James Munoz Little, 24, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court March 20 to felony criminal endangerment.

Time Capsule: From the weekly archives

Headlines from the weekly newspapers of yesteryear

St. Ignatius Seniors: Happy Spring, Montana-style

Happy Spring Montana Style. Mother Nature pulled a good one on us with the snow and cold weather. The next Bingo will be April 13 at 2 p.m. Come and enjoy, with the possibility of winning the special Blackout Prize.

Trafford Cox places third in regional Elks Hoop Shoot

Got grit? Young Trafford Cox of Polson does. He participated in a national Elks tradition that’s more than 50 years old: The Elks Hoop Shoot. Sponsored by the Elks National Foundation, the annual event encourages boys and girls ages 8-13 to show off their competitive basketball skills.

Legals for March, 28 2024

Choral Society offers Spring Concerts April 20-21

Mission Valley Choral Society’s Spring Concert Weekend begins with a concert at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 20, at the St. Ignatius Mission and ends with a concert at 4 p.m. Sunday, April 21, in Polson at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

Cherry growers host annual meeting April 13

The 86th annual cherry growers’ meeting presented by the Flathead Lake Cherry Growers Association will be held Saturday, April 13, at the Yellow Bay Community Clubhouse on the east shore of Flathead Lake.

Ronan woman pleads not guilty to weapon assault

A Ronan woman is accused of firing two rounds from a firearm during a domestic dispute. Lucy Laryn Smith-Cluff, 26, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court March 20 to two counts of felony assault with a weapon.

Beverly Dellwo, 89

Beverly Jean Dellwo, 89, passed away Dec. 22, 2023, at St Luke Hospital in Ronan. Celebration of Life Services will be held for her at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the Ronan Community Center.

Polson Seniors: Thanks for nutrition support

Thank you to Country Pasta, Montana Marbled Meats and Super One Foods for their continuing support of our nutrition program.

Ronan Seniors: Easter dinner served Friday

The center serves Easter Dinner March 29 with a meal of ham salad and dessert. Other upcoming meals include enchiladas April 1 and stroganoff April 3.

Polson man denies assaulting officer

A Polson man is accused of elbowing a law enforcement officer in the forehead during the man’s arrest. Thatcher Thomas Mullan, 21, entered a plea of not-guilty in Polson District Court March 20 to felony assault on a peace officer.

Morrison receives suspended five-year sentence for break-in

Bryce L. Morrison, 26, who admitted to breaking into a Polson business during an earlier court appearance, was sentenced in District Court in Polson March 20 to the Montana Department of Corrections for five years with all that time suspended.

Legals for March, 28 2024

On the Agenda

Upcoming public meetings

Legals for March, 27 2024

Montanans pay $100,000 for legislative hubris and abuse of power

In the current political landscape, Republicans have a supermajority in both houses of the Montana Legislature. In 2021, legislative leaders hastily passed an illegal bill in the final hours of the session, disregarding constitutional provisions designed to prevent such actions.

Harold and Jerry McMillan

Harold Lee McMillan Sr., age 92, passed away Dec. 29, 2023 in Pahrump, Nev. He was born May 24, 1931, in Denver, Colo., to Viola V. McMillan (Armbrust) and Clarence J. McMillan. His wife, Jerry Lee McMillan (Burger), age 90, passed away Jan. 15, 2024, in Pahrump. She was born Dec. 19, 1933, in Denver, Colo., to Ella Lee Burger (Paxton) and Marvin L. Burger.

Arlee man accused of raping 15-year-old girl

An Arlee man is accused of raping a 15-year-old girl as she slept. Michael Charlo, 62, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court March 14 to sexual intercourse without consent, and is being held in the Lake County Jail on a $50,000 bond.

Polson man accused of assaulting partner and fleeing from police

Harry P. Medland III, 35, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court March 13 to felony charges of criminal endangerment, criminal mischief and assault with a weapon. He also pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor charges of theft, partner or family member assault and fleeing from or eluding a peace officer. The charges carry a combined maximum of more than 42 years in prison.

Isabelle (Welch) Mattson, 85

Born in Missoula, raised in St. Ignatius, and spent over 50 years in the Flathead Valley, Isabelle (Welch) Mattson was a Montana girl through and through.

St. Ignatius Seniors: Happy Easter

Happy Easter to everyone. May you have family near at this special time.

SB 442: A bill for all Montanans

The legislative session in Montana is a full-contact sport. Bills get introduced that stoke controversy and debate. My bill (SB 442) was no different to begin with, but we ended up with a bill Montanans could be proud of. As legislators get ready to override Governor Gianforte’s veto of SB 442, I wanted to remind Montanans what this bill does:

Holt to discuss long-eared owls at Audubon presentation

Mission Mountain Audubon presents "Key Highlights on 35 Years of Long-eared Owl Research in Montana" by Denver Holt at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 4, in the Polson Library Meeting room.

Mack Days: Perfect weather for opening weekend

The 2024 Spring Mack Days on Flathead Lake, sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and sanctioned by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, began Thursday, March 14, and wrap up May 11.

Ronald Henry Sapp, 66

Ronald Henry Sapp, age 66, was called home to join the lord on March 13, 2024.

Ronan City Council hears Pioneer Days plan for MREC

Mike Bartel, former Ronan Mayor Kim Aipperspach and Amanda Symington, representing Ronan Pioneer Days, approached the city council about the Mission Range Event Complex land during the council meeting last Wednesday. The property is located on Mink Lane, behind Western Building Center.

Polson Seniors: Beware the Ides of March

“March madness” is a phrase coined from sports telecasters to describe the time of year when the only thing on TV is basketball. I linked the phrase to English folklore: “as mad as a March hare,” although I do not understand why the March hare was so angry. It’s Spring. Those rabbits should be happy.

Wok and Roll: High school senior opens his first business

Not many business owners are going to the Polson High School prom, but William Debeeld is not just any entrepreneur. The Polson High senior attends school until 1:25 p.m. weekdays, runs home quickly before opening his business, Nicala’s Asian Cuisine by 2 or 2:30 p.m. at the Polson VFW Post 2986’s kitchen.

Stringfever launches Montana tour with Ronan concert

Stringfever kicks off an eight-town tour of Montana with a concert at 7 p.m. March 29 at the Ronan Performing Arts Center. The show is part of the Mission Valley Live series.

Flathead Basin dam managers defend management decisions

Dam managers in Northwest Montana reiterated in a public presentation last Thursday that reservoir operations during drought years require a delicate balance of competing objectives. “There will be tradeoffs,” cautioned Jennifer Carrington, regional director for the Bureau of Reclamation, which oversees the Hungry Horse Dam above Columbia Falls.

Mission Valley Calendar

Your events guide to the Mission Valley

Ronan dressed up in green for St. Patrick's Day

A profusion of green sprouted along Main Street in Ronan Saturday afternoon as spectators and parade participants alike paid homage to St. Patrick – the patron saint of Ireland.

Polson begins second season with two wins

A year after being the first Polson baseball team in school history and the first-ever state baseball champion in Montana history, the Pirates are ready for their sophomore season. They got off to a robust start last weekend with wins over Whitefish and Belgrade.

Several stand out at Mission Valley All-Star Game

The stars were out at the Ronan Events Center on Tuesday, March 12. It was time for the Mission Valley All-Star and local standouts from across the valley to take part in one final hoops showcase before spring sports started.

Mission, Charlo, TERS make All-State, All-District

Season accolades given for Class B, Class C players.

Spring Sports Calendar

Varsity tennis, track, softball and baseball get underway this week.

Dayton teacher brings extra tools to classroom

“It’s Dr. Seuss’s birthday that’s why we’re dressed like crazy people today – it’s Wacky Wednesday,” Cheryl Muri said.

Will not be voting to override Governor's veto

The 2023 Legislature ended almost a year ago. However, a couple weeks ago, Judge Mike Menahan issued a decision directing the Montana Secretary of State to conduct a veto override poll on SB 442 to determine if the bill will become law. I will not be supporting the veto poll override.

Judge Christopher announces resignation

In a letter dated March 15, District Court Judge Kim Christopher informed Supreme Court Chief Justice Mike McGrath that she is officially stepping down from her duties April 5. She calls the decision to resign “especially bittersweet,” given her family’s long history in Lake and Sanders counties.

MREC: Still no resolution in sight for Ronan parcel

Lake County Commissioners met with Ronan Pioneer Days representatives Kim Aipperspach and Mike Bartel Monday afternoon to discuss the future of the Mission Range Event Center.

View from the Library: Closure planned March 22-25

So much has been happening the past few months for the North Lake County Library, and we are so excited to be reopened in our newly renovated space. We are still putting the finishing touches on the building, which includes one last semi-major project inside that will be noisy and dusty, so it will require us to close the library March 22-25.

Legals for March, 21 2024

Legals for March, 20 2024

Appreciates editorial

Thank you for your excellent editorial, "Not my problem." Your title is a perfect fit.

Billy Gene Proud, 86

Billy Gene Proud, age 86 of Dayton, passed away peacefully in Missoula on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. His family was by his side.

SKC grad pursues doctorate in toxicology at UM

While growing up in Arlee, Niche’ Brown remembers summers when wildfire smoke filled the Mission Valley. Wildfire smoke is often a regular part of life in western Montana, but Brown became curious about what particles are in the smoke and how it affects human health.

Mary Belle Kinsel Boyd Grazier, 97

Mary Belle Kinsel Boyd Grazier of Ronan passed peacefully at the age of 97 on March 2, 2024, surrounded by her beloved family. Mary Belle was born in Columbus, Ohio, to Thomas and Mary Kinsel on July 30, 1926.

Marba Elizabeth LaBarrer, 87

Marba Elizabeth LaBarrer, of Arlee, passed away peacefully at her home Feb. 8, 2024, at the age of 87, following a recent cancer diagnosis. She made friends wherever she went, and is remembered as a woman who was easy to love and commanded great respect from the people in her life. Marba had a life lived well, and a life well lived.

People in Education

MSU lists recent Lake County graduates; University of Tampa and Upper Iowa University list local scholars.

Box sentenced for car theft, bail jumping

A Polson man admitted to stealing a car and skipping court. Charlie Corbin Box, 20, entered a plea of guilty in Polson District Court March 6 to felony theft and bail jumping charges.

Polson woman admits to pointing gun at spouse

A Polson woman, accused of pointing a gun at her husband, will avoid more jail time. Elizabeth Simone Richard, 36, entered a plea of guilty in Polson District Court March 6 to misdemeanor assault as part of an agreement that amended one count of felony assault with a weapon to misdemeanor assault.

Kalispell man enters Alford plea to indecent exposure

The trial for a Kalispell man accused of exposing himself to a minor has been avoided after Cole Michael Jacob, 33, entered an Alford plea in Polson District Court March 4 to felony indecent exposure. He could face maximum punishment of 20 years in prison.

In appreciation of strong women

“It's the mark of a backward society … when decisions are made for women by men.” (Melinda Gates)

Louise Andrew

Louise V. Andrew passed away at her home in Niarada on March 6, 2024, surrounded by her family.

Polson Seniors: Beware the Ides of March

Julius Caesar was warned to beware the Ides of March (15th). He went to the Senate anyway and was assassinated. I will beware the Ides of April (15th) tax-due day.

Ronan Seniors: Corned beef and cabbage served Friday

The Mission Valley Senior Center in Ronan celebrates St. Patrick’s Day March 15 with corned beef and cabbage. Other upcoming meals include spaghetti, March 18 and hash-brown casserole, March 20.

January Births at the Nesting Place

The following births were recorded at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center's Nesting Place in January

February Births at the Nesting Place

The following births were recorded in February at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place

Senator believes SB 442 deserved veto

For the last 14 years, I have had the honor of serving as a member of the Montana Legislature. In each session, the Legislature has passed bills which the Governor has vetoed.

Kunekune: Round Butte couple raises affable pigs

Kunekune (pronounced KOOnee KOOnee) sows and gilts bask in the sunshine or nibble on the remnants of their morning hay. On the other side of the fence, the Kunekune “boys” explore any plant life and hang out, some napping in the sun while Margie the Tibetan Mastiff keeps an eye out for coyotes and other predators.

Little Shop Montana finds new home on Main Street

The Little Shop Montana, which recently moved from Highway 93 to Polson’s Main Street is a pleasure to explore.

Thanks to Providence for health regained

The incredible gift of excellent healthcare right in our community! The care, kindness and professional services we all receive from Providence St. Joseph Medical Center and their Ortho/Outpatient Rehab center, need to be acknowledged.

The Republicans I grew up with – revisited

My father and his brother, younger by 20 years, were both ardent Republicans. They came from rural poverty, worked hard, and became successful, each in his own fashion. Along the way, they got an education in public schools, went to taxpayer-supported land grant colleges and worked for the privilege of an education.

St. Ignatius Seniors: One Happy Camper

Thank you for all who came to Bingo. One Happy Camper went home with a $100 for blackout.

Thank you to a kind stranger

I wanted to write a brief "Thank You" to the stranger (or unknown friend) who paid for some groceries for me about four weeks ago at Harvest Foods.

Commission candidate alleges Decker doesn’t reside in Ronan district

Josh Senecal, a candidate for Commission District 3, filed a complaint with the Commissioner of Political Practices Feb. 29, alleging that incumbent Lake County Commissioner Gale Decker, who has filed for reelection, does not reside in the district he serves.

Opposes Montana Sportsmen Conservation Act

I moved to northwestern Montana in 2021 and I have found so much mental and physical healing from the beauty of this wilderness.

Amelia Ruth Gipe, 103

Amelia Ruth Gipe, age 103, passed away Saturday, March 2, 2024 at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson.

Time Capsule: From the weekly archives

Benefit dance, knife fight and Bison Range: News from the archives of the Ronan Pioneer

Water managers host meeting on water supply outlook

With the official first day of spring less than a week away, farmers, ranchers and recreationists are paying close attention to weather forecasts and snowpack measurements – as are the region’s water managers.

Furious comeback: Arlee takes fourth in State Tournament

Arlee found itself short one shot in the Class B State Tournament third-place game against Lodge Grass. The Warriors posted one of the most impressive comebacks in state history, trailing by 21 points with four and a half minutes left in the game.

Ronan baseball gears up for first season

Baseball has always been a huge part of the Ronan community, so with the Chiefs forming a high school program, that enthusiasm for the diamond can continue.

On the Agenda

Public meetings by local government

SKC Lady Bison win national championship

The SKC Lady Bison are national champions again. The 2024 American Indian Higher Education Consortium featured the best American Indian schools in the country facing off in both men’s and women’s basketball at Concordia College March 5-7.

Area players named to All-Conference Northwest A Team

With the basketball season concluded, several area players were honored on the All-Conference Northwest A team.

Mission Valley Calendar

Your events guide to the Mission Valley

County officials look for answers from U.S. Attorney

Frustration seemed to be the tenor this week at the Lake County Courthouse as public officials contemplate their withdrawal from Public Law 280, which has given the county felony jurisdiction over tribal members on the Flathead Reservation for nearly 60 years.

More candidates enlist before Monday deadline

Monday’s deadline evoked a last-minute flurry of candidate filings at the local election office and with the Secretary of State.

Legals for March, 14 2024

Legals for March, 14 2024

Legals for March, 13 2024

CSKT loses elder Louise Veronica Andrew

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) flew flags at half-mast through Saturday, March 9, in honor of Kootenai Elder Louise Veronica Andrew, who passed away March 6 at age 89.

Legals for March, 7 2024

Polson Chamber of Commerce presents B2B event

The Polson Chamber of Commerce is offering a B2B (Business-to-Business) event on May 11, aimed at fostering connections and collaborations among local businesses.

Local Native American businesses receive state grants

The Montana Department of Commerce recently announced that $320,000 of grant funding has been allocated to support 26 start-up or expanding Native American businesses in Montana, including three on the Flathead Reservation.

Filing deadline is Monday for federal, state, county elections

The filing deadline is March 11 – less than a week away – for candidates seeking federal, state or county offices. According to a press release from the Secretary of State’s office, 32 candidate filings were processed last week. As of March 1, a total of 328 candidate filings had been processed for 173 different offices.

Not my problem

Governor Greg Gianforte finally responded to Lake County’s formal decision to pull out of Public Law 280 with a letter that could be paraphrased as “Not my problem.”

Governor responds to PL-280 withdrawal

In a long-awaited letter, Gov. Greg Gianforte informed the Lake County Commissioners March 1 that his administration had no intention of allocating “current resources to assist with law enforcement in Lake County” after May 20, when the county officially pulls out of Public Law 280.

Arlee gears up for State Tournament

Arlee is heading into the State Class B Boys' State Basketball Tournament in Billings with a lot to feel good about. The Warriors are coming off three straight wins in the Western B Divisional Tournament and are taking their No. 3 seed into the first round against the North's No. 1 seed, Fairview.

Lake Monsters scare up top finishes at state tourney

The locally based Lake Monsters Swim Team took to the pool in Butte at the Montana Swimming Short Course State Championships two weeks ago, making the podium several times. The boys accomplished the incredible feat of placing eighth with only five swimmers amassing 92.5 points, and the girls took 10th, notching 44.5 points.

Polson Commission approves summer watering restrictions

At its regular meeting Monday night, the Polson City Commission approved a new ordinance aimed at conserving municipal water during the summer months by limiting outdoor watering from June 10-Sept. 30.

Wildire “the new norm” says county mitigation specialist

Carey Cooley, Rollins fire chief and Lake County’s fire mitigation coordinator, is passionate about fire – or more specifically, preventing it. She’s spent the last 18 months bringing together a range of stakeholders to update the county’s Community Wildfire Protection Plan. And now, it’s ready for public input before the county commissioners sign off on the document.

Time Capsule: From the weekly archives

News gleaned from the archives of the weekly newspapers that became the Lake County Leader.

Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil

As I read David Daniels’ letter to the editor (Feb. 29 edition) I felt I must respond. It is tragic that he did not understand that salvation is a free gift and that you cannot earn it.

Friends of the Library hosts Book Sale

The North Lake County Public Library District Friends of the Library will hold a used book sale March 15-16 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday.

Harry Keith Ross, 93

Harry "Keith" Ross, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, peacefully departed this world on Feb. 26, 2024, in Polson. Keith was a beacon of light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. A celebration of Keith's life will be held March 9, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church with Father Bob Brooks officiating.

Ronan Council gives preliminary approval to Jake Jannsen subdivision

The Ronan City Council heard from Ronan Superintendent Mark Johnson last Wednesday about a plan to build two duplexes to house four new teachers who are unable to find housing in the area. The school district’s project will be part of the new Jake Jannsen minor subdivision, which received preliminary conditional approval from the council Wednesday.

Country Store moves to new location

Snowflakes as big as quarters didn’t deter the Country Store crew on Saturday morning as they hauled boxes of household goods, toys and clothing racks to a waiting trailer. As soon as the racks were in the trailer, volunteers carried out armloads of clothes on hangers and re-hung them for the short trip to their new digs, around the corner at the former Odyssey Auto Glass building at 5 4th Ave. West in Polson.

Ronan Cooperative Brewery celebrates new license

The Ronan Cooperative Brewery has been awarded its new license, which allows it to serve wine and stay open until 2 a.m. To celebrate, owners, patrons and friends of the Co-op turned out Friday night, March 1, for the official New License Party.

Students take advantage of new schooling options

Of the many education reforms passed by the 2023 Legislature, one has been generating a lot of news lately, particularly in the Bozeman area.

Urges Congressional leaders to stand by Ukraine

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began just over two years ago, and the devastating war that has followed has been a catastrophe for Ukrainians and Russians alike.

Two Eagle River School: After 50 years, still going strong

In 1973 it was noted that the dropout rate for high school age students in Montana was approximately 16%, and in schools with large numbers of Native American students, the dropout rate was estimated between 38-42%. Those numbers were even higher on the Flathead Indian Reservation, where a study showed that in the nine public school districts 63% of Indian students had quit school prior to acquiring a high school diploma.

Mission Valley Calendar

Your events guide to the Mission Valley

On the Agenda

Upcoming public meetings in Lake County

Marriages & Divorces

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

St. Ignatius Seniors: Bingo is March 9

We will have our next bingo on March 9 at 2 p.m. featuring a special blackout prize. Join the group for a fun day with tasty snacks available.

Ronan Seniors: Pork roast served Sunday

Our Sunday Roast Pork Dinner will be served noon-2 p.m. March 10. Come join us for a delicious meal!

Polson Seniors: Irish were so practical

St. Patrick’s Day is on Sunday this year, and I researched some old Irish laws concerning monks. “A layman may have six pints of beer with his dinner. A monk shall only have three so that he will not become inebriated before evening prayers.” So practical, those Irish. Corned beef at the Senior Center – see menu below.

Trial for Sunny White moved to September

A Butte woman, accused of striking and killing Mika Westwolf, has had her May 6 trial date pushed back to Sept. 30. The continuance was requested by Meghan Benson of Missoula, the public defender representing Sunny Katherinne White.

Sandra Fortney, 79

Sandra Gwen Fortney, known affectionately as “Sandy” to her family and friends, was born on Friday, Feb. 23, 1945, in Orange, Calif., shortly after the end of World War II. She was an extraordinary member of the “Baby Boomer Generation.”

Harbor Light Furniture: Still a family affair

Harbor Light Furniture and Flooring will celebrate a big anniversary this year: 75 years as a Main Street business and 50 years with the Fisher/Whisman family.

John Harlan, 68

John Masten Harlan, age 68, of Polson, passed away Feb. 7, 2024. John was born Jan. 12, 1956, in Los Angeles, Calif., where he was adopted by his parents, Frederick and Mary Harlan.

Spring Mack Days gears up for March 14 opener

The 2024 Spring Mack Days Fishing Event sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes is just around the corner. Lake trout anglers are gearing up to hit the waters of Flathead Lake for the 59-day event, which begins next Thursday, March 14, and continues through Saturday, May 11.

Ronan woman charged with selling fentanyl

A Ronan woman, accused of dealing fentanyl, entered a plea of not guilty in Polson District Court Feb. 29. Brandy Ann Unruh, 45, faces felony charges of criminal possession with intent to distribute and criminal possession of dangerous drugs.

Cheryl "Lily" Stone, 75

Cheryl (Lily) Stone, 75, of Polson, passed away on Feb. 27, 2024, with her husband, children, and beloved dogs by her side.

Arrest for throwing rocks at motorists leads to drug charge

A Pablo man, who drew the attention of law enforcement for allegedly throwing rocks at passing motorists, is also accused of possessing drugs and is the suspect in a Pablo arson fire.

BB-gun shooter back in jail for violating sentence

A former Polson man, who was convicted of shooting a man’s eye out with a BB gun, is back in jail for violating conditions of a six-year deferred sentence. Marshall Bigknife, 19, was given the deferred sentence in Polson District Court on Sept. 27, 2023, after reaching a plea agreement earlier.

Legals for March, 6 2024