Ellington

Three Polson teachers receive Educator Grants

Three Polson teachers received Educator Grants, funded by the Greater Polson Community Foundation in conjunction with the Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation.

Legals for October, 31 2024

Delaney runs to individual XC state title

Polson Sophomore Morgan Delaney has several years of running ahead of her.

Fyant represents our future

There are people in this world who possess the wisdom of generations, and carry it with them with grace, aplomb, and equanimity. Shelly Fyant is one of those people.

Leishman 5th at state cross country

Mission’s Harlon Leishman was the Mission Valley’s top finisher in the Class B State Cross Country Championships at the University of Montana Golf Course in Missoula on Saturday, October 26, with a personal best of 16:21.2.

Two Eagle places eighth at State Championship

Two Eagle Places Eighth At State Championships Two Eagle River’s Lochlyn Finley was 22nd (18:59.5) in the boys race of the Class C State Champions at the University of Montana Golf Course in Missoula on Saturday, Oct. 26. Two Eagle as a team placed eighth thanks to depth from their running squad.

Polson falls to Hamilton, 45-23

Hamilton used an 18-point second quarter to take control of a Class football battle on Friday, Oct. 25. The Broncs defeated Polson 45-23, ending the Pirates' regular season with a record of 4-4.

Warriors drop league matchup to Plains

Plains defeated Arlee 19-14 in Eight-Man Football action on the Warriors home field on Friday, Oct. 25. The loss dropped Arlee to 3-6 on the season and 2-6 in league play, while the Horsemen improved to 3-5.

Polson sweeps Libby, falls to Whitefish

Polson picked up a 3-0 sweep over Libby in Northwest A Conference action on Thursday, Oct. 24 to rebound from a loss to Whitefish on Tuesday, Oct. 22.

Lady Bulldogs can’t get past Florence-Carlton

Mission fell to 6-9 overall with a 25-10, 25-18, 25-11 loss to Florence-Carlton in Class B volleyball action on the road. Alecia Steele’s six kills led the Lady Bulldogs, while Jada Domebo had six assists, and Amelia Cronk had five.

Let's be neighbors first

Finally, the election is upon us, and I’m pretty sure we’ll all breathe a sigh of relief when it’s over.

Montana Ambassadors name Frank Tyro Educator of the Year

The Montana Ambassadors celebrated Frank Tyro, a pioneering television producer and professor, as the 2024 recipient of the Mike Malone Educator of the Year Award during a ceremony Oct. 4.

Election Time: Polls open Tuesday across Lake County

As of Monday, Lake County Election Administrator Toni Kramer reported that more than 60% of the absentee and early voting ballots had been returned, well in advance of Tuesday's Election Day deadline.

Haunted Fairgrounds needs more victims

The buildings look normal, painted and nicely kept, but inside lurks a scary maze, haunted rooms, the wall of hands, skeletons, ghouls and graveyards, just to name a few of the sights at the Haunted Fairgrounds in Ronan.

Tribute to a champ: Darryl Dupuis inducted to Montana Indian Athletic Hall of Fame

Although Darryl Dupuis is most noted as a standout football player and coach, two champion wrestlers nominated him for the Montana Indian Athletic Hall of Fame.

Ronan Council continues tree discussion

Ronan’s City Council members went on a field trip at the beginning of last Wednesday’s meeting.

Duende Libre delivers "euphoric new jazz"

The award-winning jazz trio Duende Libre performs at 7 p.m. Nov. 8 at the Polson High auditorium as part of the Mission Valley Live concert series.

On the Agenda

Upcoming public meetings

Mission Valley Calendar

Your Mission Valley events guide

Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies

News gleaned from the Ronan Pioneer 100 years ago

Tester’s October surprises

The long-awaited October lies by Tester have arrived on schedule.

Fall Mack Days enters final stretch

The 2024 Fall Mack Days Fishing Event on Flathead Lake will end Nov. 3 after nine weeks of lake trout fishing.

Profusion of parvo cases is preventable

Communities across the Flathead Reservation are currently facing an explosion in parvo cases. Meanwhile, organizations like the Arlee Rehabilitation Center (ARC) are fielding daily calls from families in crisis who need to surrender unwanted dogs. Puppies and dogs are being abandoned on roadsides and in fields.

Births at the Nesting Place

Luthien Adele-Rae Carter was born Oct. 9 at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place in Polson.

Dollar General store opens; Dollar Tree comes next

A Dollar General store opened recently at 63741 Hwy. 93, just south of Valley Bank in Ronan. Meanwhile, a Dollar Tree is under construction at 143 Ridgewater Dr. in Polson, and is advertising for sales associates.

Judges support Bidegaray

Judges are in a good position to know which candidates can meet the high standards for a Justice of the Supreme Court.

Ronan Seniors: Looking for input on raising lunch prices

With the cost of groceries going up, we would like some feedback on raising our prices from $7 to $8. It’s not an ideal situation but we don’t know what else to do.

Veteran warns against another Trump term

Racism has always been a big part of our society. The Puritans considered witches, Indians and Catholic priests "vermin."

Glacier Country seeks board applicants

Glacier Country, the official tourism marketing, management and stewardship organization for Western Montana, is seeking applicants for positions on its volunteer board. Applicants must live in Lake, Lincoln, Mineral, Missoula or Ravalli counties, and work in a tourism-related business or organization.

PEO chapter donates clothing to local schools

As the holiday season approaches, the local CA chapter of PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization) again decided to forgo exchanging gifts with each other at Christmas and instead, donate money for clothing items for students at Cherry Valley and Linderman schools in Polson.

St. Ignatius Seniors: AARP offers driving course

The AARP Safe Driving Course is available at 1 p.m. Nov. 7. Some insurance companies will give graduates a discount for taking the course.

Salisbury's sentence reinstated for partner assault

A Polson man had his 10-year suspended sentence revoked for violating its terms. Shawn Allen Salisbury, 48, was initially given the 10-year term with the Montana Department of Corrections in District Court in Polson Jan. 17, and shortly afterwards absconded from probation.

Dixon woman accused of assaulting witness

A Dixon woman is accused of assaulting a potential witness in a Lake County rape case.

Man admits to threatening family with ax

Judge Molly Owen set a sentencing date of Dec. 18 for a Polson man accused of threatening his family with an ax.

Arlee man admits to raping 15-year-old girl

An Arlee man, accused of raping a 15-year-old girl, admitted to the charge in District Court in Polson Oct. 24. Michael Charlo, 62, entered a plea of guilty to sexual intercourse without consent.

Polson Seniors: Watch time fly away

Sunday, Nov. 3, is so irritating. Set your clocks back Saturday evening, Montana Standard Time. Or just throw your clock outside and watch time fly away.

Ronan Hall of Fame inductees announced

The Ronan Hall of Fame Committee recently released the 2024 class of inductees.

Donna Lorraine (Bras) Cason, 94

Donna Lorraine (Bras) Cason, age 94, passed away Oct. 16, 2024, at St. Joseph Assisted Living in Polson.

Let’s not usher in another Gilded Age

The 2024 Senate map had Republicans giddy over nine races where the GOP might pick up seats and take control of the Senate in 2025. In four of those races where incumbent Democrats were most vulnerable – Montana, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin – Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Montana’s own Steve Daines recruited extremely wealthy Republican challengers, most with tenuous ties to their states.

Legals for October, 30 2024

Azzopardi advocates fiscal responsibility

For those living in HD 13, know who and why you are voting for Shirley Azzopardi.

Legals for October, 24 2024

Wallace Merritt

Wallace Lowell Merritt of Polson, loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to all who knew him, left our world and was called home on Friday, Oct. 11, 2024. Memorial services for Wally were held on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, at the Bridge Church in Polson followed by graveside services at Lakeview Cemetery.

Levi Scott, 42

Levi James Scott, age 42 of Polson, passed away at his home on Aug. 26. Levi was born Jan. 14, 1982, in Missoula to Charlie and Barb Scott of Polson.

Public lands are on the ballot

The legacy of Montana public lands, public access, public water, and public wildlife are on the ballot this November. A vote for Gianforte is a vote against Montana’s public lands legacy.

Leishman takes second at Western BC Invite

Mission’s Harlon Leishman was second (16:36.43) at the 2024 Western BC Invite boys race at River Bend Golf Course in Thompson Falls on Thursday, Oct. 17.

Delaney wins Western A Classic

Polson’s Morgan Delaney won the conference championship at the 2024 Western A Classic girls race on Saturday, Oct. 19, at the Cabinet View Golf Course in Libby with a time of 18:19.04.

Polson soccer teams bounced from playoffs

The Polson boys soccer team season came to an end with a 3-0 playoff loss to Columbia Falls on Saturday, Oct. 19.

Whitefish air attack swamps Pirates; Chiefs down Park

Polson faced a Whitefish air attack on Friday, October 18, which proved effective in a 38-10 Northwest A Conference road battle.

Superior topples Arlee in 8-man action

Arlee fell to 3-5 on the season with a 60-14 loss to Superior in eight-man football action on Friday, Oct. 18. Superior got off to a quick start with a 34-0 lead in the first quarter.

Matt leads Mission to win over Troy

Mission got 17 kills from Cora Matt in a 25-21, 25-17, 18-25, 22-25, 15-5 victory over Troy in Western 7B volleyball action on Saturday, October 19. Matt also had an incredible six blocks at the net.

Congressman Zinke: "It's not my first rodeo"

Flags, campaign slogans and a multitude of honking horns greeted U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke last Friday as he stood alongside Highway 93 in Polson, holding a big Zinke for Congress sign and waving at passers-by.

Polson second, Ronan third at Blocktober Tournament

Polson placed second in the consolation bracket at the Blocktober Tournament in Butte on Saturday, October 19. Ronan placed third in the Copper bracket at the same tournament.

Charlo defeats Noxon in 13C volleyball

The Lady Vikings continue to pile up wins as the postseason looms.

Lake County Sheriff reports missing woman

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information on a Ronan woman who has been missing since Oct. 8.

Elizabeth (Bette) Leona Seibert Hawkins

Elizabeth (Bette) Leona Seibert Hawkins died at St. Luke Community Hospital in Ronan on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, from natural causes. Bette was born on May 9, 1956, in Ronan to H. Homer and Anita R Seibert.

Government study commissions still need members

According to the Montana League of Women Voters, Montana’s Constitution is the only one in the nation to stipulate that voters be given an opportunity every 10 years to decide whether or not to review their form of government by forming local government study commissions.

Local meat processor participates in Hunters Against Hunger

Local food pantries across the state are preparing to receive donations from the Hunters Against Hunger program. Locally, the CSKT Peoples Food Sovereignty Program will receive game processed by Round Butte Custom Cuts in Ronan.

Jake's Farm in the Dell lauded as "shining example" of cooperation

Three state legislators and representatives from the Department of Public Health and Human Services visited the future site of Jake’s Farm in the Dell on Monday.

Mission Valley Calendar

Your events guide to the Mission Valley

Polson city manager offers Civics 101 class

Polson City Manager Ed Meece is a self-described “government geek.” His enthusiasm for the inner workings of city government and his hope that citizens will catch the bug too is behind “Civics 101: Polson,” a class he’s teaching from 5:30-7 p.m. Oct. 29 at Polson City Hall.

Mission police host Krav Maga self-defense class for women

The St. Ignatius Police Department is hosting a free women’s self-defense class, taught by Amberly Walker of Ten Snakes Krav Maga. She also offers a free class at 9:30 a.m. Nov. 2 and Dec. 7 at the Ronan CSKT Senior Center.

Bison Range goes batty in honor of Bat Week

In honor of international Bat Week, Oct. 24-31, and in advance of Halloween, bat enthusiasts gathered Saturday, Oct. 19, to celebrate the iconic critter at the CSKT Bison Range in Moiese.

Week 7: Fall Mack Days total outstrips previous years

A total of 14,621 lake trout entries have been entered in the 2024 Fall Mack Days Fishing Event at the conclusion of the seventh week on Oct. 20. Entries in the nine-week event continue to be taken until the final day, Nov. 3.

Donna Cason, 94

Donna L. Bras Cason, age 94, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, at St. Joseph Assisted Living in Polson.

Forget the mud-slinging America and get to work

Here we are again ... in a fragile state as a nation. Worried sick, I always return to my values, instilled by my solid Republican parents and my life experiences.

Local performers take stage in inaugural Montana's Got Talent

Musician Halladay Quist, daughter of Montana Hall of Fame entertainer Rob Quist, is host and founder of the inaugural Montana’s Got Talent Showcase at the Wachholz College Center in Kalispell on Saturday, Oct. 26, at 7 p.m.

Taxpayers fund party primaries so why can’t we vote in all of them?

I just got a flier in the mail from the Montana Republican Party asking me to vote “no” on CI-126, that’s the ballot initiative to allow a primary election where the top four vote getters advance to the general election.

Azzopardi is a collaborative problem solver

Shirley Azzopardi, who is running for District 13 in the Montana House of Representatives, has all the qualities I want in a political candidate – integrity, common sense, knowledge and perseverance.

CI 128 seeks to destroy future generations

Please prayerfully consider CI 128 before you cast your vote.

Ronan Seniors: Looking for meat, produce

If anyone has produce, meat or consumable products we would gladly take them! We are especially interested in meat.

St. Ignatius Seniors: Remember to vote Nov. 5

Remember to vote on Nov. 5. Bingo was held last Saturday and fun was had. The lucky Blackout winner took home $100. Our next Bingo will be Nov. 9 at 2 p.m.

Polson Seniors: Spinning group meets at center

The Mission Mountain Spinners group is new to our activity list (see below). Bring your spinning wheel, fiber, etc. from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month, beginning Nov. 5. Call Linda, 208-520-1013.

Sheehy, Tester, and respect

By now, most of us have learned of the shocking recordings of Tim Sheehy at Montana campaign events talking about "bonding with all the Indians while they’re drunk at 8:00 A.M.," and having "Coors Light cans flying by your head" while riding in the Crow parade.

Baszler pleads not guilty to gun threat

A Polson man is accused of threatening a couple with a handgun while intoxicated. Eric Walter Baszler, 41, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson Oct. 16 to felony assault with a weapon and misdemeanor DUI.

Idaho drug dealer sentenced to state prison

An Idaho Falls man, who admitted to dealing drugs in Lake County, was sentenced in District Court in Polson Oct. 16 to the Montana State Prison.

Polson man pleads not guilty to choking girlfriend

A Polson man is accused of choking his girlfriend at an RV park in Ronan. Shellton Scott Hall, 25, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson Oct. 17 to felony strangulation of a partner or family member.

Woman sentenced for fentanyl poisoning of 13-month-old son

A Ronan woman was sentenced in District Court in Polson Oct. 17 to the Montana State Women’s Prison for 15 years, with 10 years suspended, for the fentanyl poisoning death of her 13-month-old son. Roberta Hammer, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of negligent homicide after reaching a plea agreement in the case during an earlier court appearance.

Legals for October, 23 2024

Fall Mack Days: Top anglers surpass 18 days of fishing

Six of the 2024 Top Ten anglers in the Mack Days Fishing Event have fished 18 straight days of weekend fishing on Flathead Lake.

St. Ignatius Seniors: Nurse on the Go visits Oct. 23

We have a “Nurse on the Go” that is coming to our center to do toenails. She charges $25 a session and it takes about 30 minutes. She will be at the St. Ignatius Senior Center on Oct. 23 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Let’s protect human life

Rights go hand in hand with responsibilities. Please read CI-128 and consider the evidence: Between 1973 and 2021, the number of legal abortions – per 100 live births – ranged between 18 and 36. [Statista 2024]

Candidate says current PSC "is a mess"

My name is Elena Evans, and I’m running as an Independent for the Public Service Commission because we can’t afford another 28% increase on our utility bills.

Reader shares Natelson's take on CI-128

Professor Rob Natelson recently reviewed CI-128. The following are all his words and excerpts of his conclusions regarding this bill:

The Western Way: Lonnie Metzger inducted to Cowboy Hall of Fame

Ronan rancher Lonnie Paul Metzger was recently inducted into the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame for District 10, which includes Lake, Flathead Lincoln and Sanders counties. He’ll be honored, along with other members of the 17th class, on Feb. 8 during an induction ceremony and Western Heritage Gathering at the Heritage Inn in Great Falls.

Mission man pleads not guilty to choking wife

A St. Ignatius man is accused of choking his wife after she accused him of doing drugs. Dalton Daniel Hall, 26, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court at Polson Oct. 10 to felony strangulation of a partner or family member.

Bird found guilty of drugs, officer assault

Judge John A. Mercer set a sentencing date of Nov. 21 for Nathaniel Bird, 39, an Idaho man convicted of assault on a peace officer and criminal possession of dangerous drugs.

Ronan Liquor Store gathers donations for hurricane victims

The Ronan Liquor Store is gathering goods to help victims of the extreme flooding in North Carolina that followed in the wake of Hurricane Helene.

Farris-Olsen best pick for Clerk of Supreme Court

As an attorney practicing here in Lake County, I understand firsthand how critical it is to have competent and impartial administrators running clerks' offices for our courts. That’s why I’m supporting Erin Farris-Olsen for Clerk of the Montana Supreme Court.

Nancy Roberts Mallery, 74

Nancy Roberts Mallery of Kalispell died Oct. 9. Services for Nancy will be held at a later date.

Why seniors in seven counties are voting for Elena Evans

We are retired Montanans living in all seven counties within District 4 of the Public Service Commission. Most of us are on fixed incomes. Some of us are Republicans and some are Democrats. But all of us are voting for Elena Evans, an Independent candidate for the PSC.

SAFE Harbor receives $20,000 Mary Kay award

Violence is a societal challenge around the world, and within Lake County and the Flathead Reservation, the impact of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence has consequences crossing generations.

Polson Seniors: Banner year for memberships

The annual membership campaign is underway and so far, we’ve exceeded expectations and are looking at a record year again. Dues are $15 and expire next August.

Ronan Seniors: Looking for cook, dishwasher

We are trying to find someone who is interested in a part-time position cooking and dishwashing; please contact Donna at 676-2371.

House fire subdued, but structure uninhabitable

The City of Polson Fire Department was dispatched shortly after noon Oct. 8 to a possible structure fire on the 700 block of Fifth Ave. E.

Endorses Azzopardi for House District 13

It is my pleasure to write this letter in strong support of Shirley Azzopardi for HD 13. I taught with Shirley during her tenure at St. Ignatius Schools.

Problem trees prompt Ronan Council discussion

Trees planted on Ronan’s Main Street were a topic of discussion at the Ronan City Council meeting. Leaves have clogged the storm drains during big rainstorms, and city workers have been called out at 1 p.m. to shovel them out.

Audubon program explores birding in Mexico

Josh Covill presents the Mission Mountain Audubon's next educational program, "Birding and the Day of the Dead in Oaxaca, Mexico," at 7 p.m. Oct. 24 in the North Lake County Library meeting room in Polson.

Former treasurer coaches new candidate for office

An old hand is temporarily at the helm of the Lake County Treasurer’s Office. But emergency acting treasurer Robin Vert-Rubel says she’ll happily relinquish the reins at the end of the year, when candidate Rebecca Maso takes the oath of office.

DiGiallonardo wins at Mission Shadow Duels

Polson’s David DiGiallonardo won the Mission Shadow Duels at the Silver Fox Golf Course in Pablo on Saturday, Oct. 12.

Lewings stage "Meagher of the Sword" before Australian debut

The Port Polson Players are gearing up for their 50th season of presenting live community theatre to Mission Valley audiences with a two-person production of “Meagher of the Sword.” The duo stages the show Oct. 25-27 at the John Dowdall Theatre on the Lake in Polson, before taking it to Tasmania, Australia, in January.

Entrepreneur proposes innovative housing option

At a meeting last Thursday with the Lake County Commissioners, Keith DeVille offered an overview of the “big idea” that he and his partners are planning and why.

Charlo battles at Mineral County Tournament

Charlo battled plenty of teams at the Mineral County Tournament on Saturday, Oct. 12 - reaching the championship match.

Ronan football falls to undefeated Frenchtown

Ronan fell to 3-4 on the year, falling to undefeated Frenchtown 48-12 in Northwest A Conference football action on Friday, Oct. 11.

Polson sweeps two important league matches

Polson bounced back from their Northwest A Conference loss to Ronan to rip off two important wins last week to keep pace in the league standings.

Mission volleyball drops two in Western 7B

Mission dropped a pair of Western 7B volleyball matchups, falling to Plains on Tuesday, Oct. 8, and to Thompson Falls on Thursday, Oct. 10.

Mission Valley Calendar

Your guide to events in the Mission Valley

Pirates boys soccer settles into No. 3 playoff spot

Polson leveled Frenchtown 5-1 in an important South A Conference victory on Saturday, Oct. 12 that let them settle in the No. 3 seed in the upcoming playoffs.

Lady Pirates blank Frenchtown

Polson’s 8-0 victory over Frenchtown in South A Conference girls' soccer action clinched them the No. 2 seed in the playoffs.

Mission football earns fifth victory

With 15 miles separating Mission and Arlee, it doesn’t get much more local in rivalry than that. The Bulldogs won the eight-man football matchup 56-16 over the Warriors to improve to 5-1 on the season.

CSKT hosts meetings on Chronic Wasting Disease

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes urge hunters to help protect deer, elk, and moose populations by preventing the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) on the Flathead Reservation.

Legals for October, 17 2024

Polson NAPA opens second store north of Pablo

The new Mission Valley Auto Parts–NAPA north of Pablo is huge, and it needs to be big to hold the variety and number of parts they sell. The store celebrated its second location with a grand opening bash Saturday, Oct. 5.

Legals for October, 16 2024

Judge Lynch: A steady hand for Montana’s future

In the upcoming election for Chief Justice, Montanans face a critical decision to shape our legal system’s future and safeguard our citizens’ rights and liberties. As someone who has practiced law in Montana for over 42 years, I have seen what it takes to be an exceptional Chief Justice.

Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies

Stories of yesteryear, harvested from the archives

Polson girls take out Stevensville, again

The Polson girls picked up an important season sweep over South A Conference foe Stevensville, defeating them 4-2 on Saturday, Oct. 5.

Polson harrier Delaney wins Hamilton Invite

Polson sophomore continues to tear up the cross-country season, posting her third race win and sixth top-3 finish at the Hamilton Invite on Saturday, Oct. 5. Delaney had a time of 18:49.20, while her teammate Kimora Scott was fifth (20:50.10).

Mission volleyball sweeps Superior

Mission won its fourth straight game, downing Superior 25-14, 25-21, 25-18 on Thursday, October 3. Cora Matt led the team with seven kills, while Alecia Steele had five.

Perry's 3 TDs lead Pirates past Stevensville

Polson improved to 4-2 on the season with a 60-14 victory over Stevensville on Friday, Oct. 4.

Polson's Milton claims State A title on home course

Golfing on his home course, Max Milton secured the individual Class A State Championship, posting 11 birdies in two rounds on Oct. 4-5.

Arlee outscores Charlo in football rivalry

Arlee picked up a big win, downing Lake County rival Charlo 62-20 and returning back to .500 on the season with the victory in eight-man football action on Friday, October 4.

Ronan downs Polson in volleyball showdown

In the always-heated Ronan-Polson matchup, the Maidens took home the four-set 25-21, 21-25, 25-19, 25-20 victory over the Lady Pirates on Saturday, Oct. 5.

Sen. Tester delivers pep talk in Polson

U.S. Senator Jon Tester, the lone Democrat representing Montana at the national level, dropped by campaign headquarters in Polson Sunday to pose for pictures and chat with supporters and volunteers who were heading out to knock doors on his behalf.

On the Agenda

Upcoming public meetings

Mission Valley Calendar

Upcoming events in the Mission Valley

MDT to begin wetland mitigation project near Mission

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), along with construction partner Rehbein Enterprises, began wetland mitigation work the week of Oct. 7 on MDT-owned property located south of St. Ignatius.

Lake level to drop two feet by month's end

In a recent press release, Energy Keepers announced that over the coming weeks Flathead Lake's elevation will be slowly reduced to approximately 2891 feet by the end of October. Full pool is 2893.

Judge Katherine Bidegaray right choice for Justice

District Court Judge Katherine Bidegaray is the right choice to be the next justice on the Montana Supreme Court.

Solution to a problem that doesn’t exist

Here is what is happening with CI 126 and 127 on the ballot this November:

Vote no on CI 128

When debating legislation, legislators are always looking for unintended consequences. If you are pro-life or pro-choice, CI 128 must be a major concern.

Lynch will have our backs

We live in challenging times that demand we again come together and elect a Chief Justice of the Montana Supreme Court who can protect the liberties and freedoms enshrined in our Constitution.

Support Judge Dan Wilson for Supreme Court

I have not heard a more timely and justified comment made about Montana Government, be it The Executive, Judicial, or Legislative branch than the suggestion of voting for Dan Wilson for Supreme Court.

Azzopardi: A Voice for All Montanans

I proudly endorse Shirley Azzopardi for Montana’s House District 13. With her experience and dedication, she is the leader we need to effectively represent District 13.

Put politics aside and vote O’Brien for OPI

Election Day is just around the corner in Montana. Like many people, I’m nearly exhausted from being inundated with campaign flyers, phone calls and what seems like a perpetual blitz of political commercials on television and ads on social media – unfortunately, mostly negative and attacking.

Azzopardi has courage to buck the system

Courage, determination and commitment to community. These are just a few of the qualities I would use to describe Shirley Azzopardi who is running to represent us in House District 13.

Charlo headed to trial on rape charge

After an Arlee man, who is accused of rape, rejected a plea agreement calling for five years in prison, he’s headed back to trial in District Court in Polson.

Mack Days: Helena angler lugs in three-foot-plus lake trout

Anglers are on the downhill side of the nine-week long Mack Days competition with just four weekends left in the event that ends on Sunday, Nov. 3.

St. Ignatius Seniors: Bingo is this Saturday

Bingo begins at 2 p.m. Oct. 12 with a special blackout prize.

Polson Seniors: Review Medicare drug plans Oct. 17

Memory Café by Angel Care hosts activities for those in need of cognitive support on the the first Tuesday of every month at the center. Call 406-409-8149 for details.

Another season wraps up for Big Arm camp hosts

Huge cedar trees, some twisted and gnarled but all displaying ice blue berries this time of year, mingle with mature Ponderosa pines at Big Arm State Park on the southwest shore of Flathead The park is a favorite place to camp on the shore of Flathead Lake, with shade and access for swimming and fishing.

Appreciates MVP workers

A special thank you to the Mission Valley Power emergency crews.

Commissioner counters Passieri allegations

I feel a response is needed to Thompson Smith’s blatant attempt of character assassination directed at House District 91 candidate David Passieri in his letter to the editor published in the Oct. 3 issue of the Leader.

Night watchmen for the oil-a-garchs

Like most Americans, I deeply respect and appreciate Ryan Zinke and Tim Sheehy’s service during the oil wars. As politicians, however, they no longer strike me as warriors.

Dog dilemma: More dogs, fewer foster homes and adoptions

Life Savers Animal Rescue always needs more foster homes in order to save more pups and find them a forever home. Needing more people to foster dogs and more resources is also an issue for the Mission Valley Animal Shelter, located south of Polson.

Packing the Court

President Franklin D. Roosevelt must have known just how today’s Montana Republican leadership feels.

Ronan Seniors: Roast pork served Sunday

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

Michael Howard Hodsdon, 71

Michael Howard Hodsdon died suddenly on Sept. 23, 2024, of heart failure. He lived in Bigfork, in the former home of his younger brother, Stephen Hodsdon.

Man pleads not guilty to choking stepson

Judge Molly Owen set a trial date of March 3 for a Ravalli man accused of assaulting a minor.

Gardipe sentenced for drugs, intimidation

A Big Arm man was sentenced in District Court in Polson Oct. 2 to the Montana State Prison for a total of 13 years with eight years suspended.

Legislative Forum Part II: Candidates on abortion rights, housing & education

Many of Lake County's legislative candidates gathered Sept. 26 at the Montecahto Club near Finley Point for a forum moderated by Thomas Spencer, who teaches government classes at Polson High. The Leader focused on their responses to questions about Medicaid expansion and property taxes in last week's issue, and covers their stances on abortion access, housing and education this week.

Absentee ballots go out Oct. 11

According to Lake County Election Administrator Toni Kramer, sample ballots should be available this week at the courthouse in Polson, and absentee ballots go in the mail Friday, Oct. 11, for the general election on Nov. 5.

Marriages & Divorces

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

Legals for October, 10 2024

City urged to tackle noxious weeds

Chuck Jarecki, a retired rancher and former member of the Lake County Weed Board, scolded the City of Polson for letting weeds proliferate on city rights-of-way during the Polson City Commission meeting on Monday.

Legals for October, 9 2024

Town Pump again offers match program

For 21 years, the Town Pump Charitable Foundation has been offering an annual campaign to raise funds for Montana food banks, now numbering 118.

St. Luke Community Healthcare welcomes three providers

This October, St. Luke Community Healthcare added three healthcare providers to its team: Dr. Michael Dolecki, Dr. Jay Perret, and Family Nurse Practitioner Katie Troxel.

Outgoing economic development director praises Polson amenities

I wanted to take a moment to highlight the incredible community we’ve experienced in Polson … Anyone can see the benefits, but as someone who has lived in various communities throughout the Northwest, I understand how unique Polson and the valley are.

Billee Ann Collins, 96

On Thursday afternoon, Sept. 5, 2024, Billee Ann Collins departed this world, her spirit soaring to join with her Lord and Creator. A memorial service and celebration of life will be held at Glacier View Seventh-Day Adventist Church on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2024, 3 p.m. A dinner reception will follow.

Community keeps rural clubhouse going

Thank you to everyone who attended our 100-year celebration for the Valley View Women's Club. Your attendance and generosity were greatly appreciated.

Part I: Candidates from both parties converge at forum

Several candidates for Lake County’s legislative districts gave attendees a snapshot of their positions on everything from property taxes to abortion rights during a forum at Montecahto Club, north of Polson, last Thursday. Our first installment covers property taxes and Medicaid expansion. Part 2, which comes out Oct. 10, looks at stances on CI-128, regarding abortion access, affordable housing and education.

Car and driver rescued from river

Polson City Fire was dispatched at 1 a.m. Sunday morning to a report of a vehicle in the water at 7th Ave. and Kerr Dam Rd., where the dog park is located.

Milton third, Cannon fourth at Divisionals

Polson’s Max Milton placed third at 2024 Western A Divisional at the Old Works Golf Course in Anaconda on Friday, Sept. 27. He was one of six Lake County golfers to qualify for the State A Golf Tournament, to be held Oct. 4-5 at Polson Bay Golf Course.

Polson girls and boys drop soccer match-ups to Hamilton

Lady Pirates fell to conference-undefeated Hamilton 4-1 and tied Loyola on the soccer pitch. The boys also fell to Hamilton.

Finley passes for four touchdowns in Ronan victory

Ronan picked up its second win of the year, defeating Stevensville 36-8 on Friday, Sept. 27, in Western A football action.

Wildcats blast past Polson

Columbia Falls attacked through the air and defeated Polson 42-0 in Western A football action on Friday, Sept. 27

Delaney wins Whitefish Invite, posts third at Mountain West

Polson’s Morgan Delaney won the Whitefish Invitational, posting a time of 19:15 on Tuesday, Sep. 24. She also placed third at the regional Mountain West

Mission, Arlee football pick up victories

Mission improved to 3-1 on the year with a 44-14 victory over Charlo in eight-man football action on Friday, Sept. 27. The Bulldogs racked up 32 points in the first quarter and led 38-6 at halftime.

Public education needs new leadership

This letter supports Dr. Shannon O’Brien for Montana State Superintendent of Schools. The Office of Public Instruction needs leadership that brings change that supports students and teachers in Montana’s schools.

Election initiatives would help dial down extreme partisanship

In November, Montanans will vote on two constitutional initiatives that will improve how elections are conducted.

Tester: Salt of the earth

“Hello, Jon!” my outgoing husband cheerily called out to Senator Tester in the concourse of the Salt Lake City Airport. The senator, obviously headed to the men's room, turned around, grinning, and stuck out his right hand. To my surprise, what followed was a five-minute conversation about the state of affairs in the state of Montana.

Legals for October, 3 2024

Births at the Nesting Place

Recent births at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place in Polson:

Sleep well, princes of fame and fate

Wyman McDonald remembers Ed Loder and Joe McDonald.

John Fleming, 77

John Fleming, 77, passed away peacefully of Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body Dementia on Sept. 19, 2024, with his family by his side.

Dems offer "Platform for the People"

Montana is changing. Freedoms we have taken for granted are being threatened by intolerant political agendas spawned at the national level.

Azzopardi is best choice for HD 13

I have known Shirley Azzopardi for over 25 years as a coworker, a hiking companion, and a friend. Shirley is the best choice for HD 13.

Polson remains undefeated in Northwest A volleyball

There is little doubt that Polson volleyball is looking strong in Northwest A Conference play, and their sweep of Libby on Thursday, Sept. 26, only furthered their record impressive in league play.

New Arlee exhibit showcases work by Sean Parson

Mixed media artist Sean Parson is the featured artist at the new exhibit opening Oct. 3 at the Arlee Community Development Corporation.

Mission Valley Calendar

Your events guide to the Mission Valley

Sunny Harvest Fest drew large crowd

Harvest Fest in Ronan was loaded with vendors, visitors, children, animals, and food trucks on Saturday, Sept. 21.

Cathleen Reese (Biggs), 63

Cathleen Marie (Biggs) Reese passed away on Aug. 28, 2024, at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane.

Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies

Football, errant muley bull, and hot lunch for kids: News from the Flathead Courier in 1924

Pedal to Plate highlights farms, local history

Mother Nature smiled on the Mission Valley Area Pedal to Plate bike ride, held Saturday, Sept. 21. The weather was sunny but a bit crisp at starting time and slowly warmed up as the day progressed.

Polson Seniors: Join center for $15/year

Memberships (new or renewed) are currently being accepted and cost $15 for the year ending Aug. 31, 2025.

St. Ignatius Seniors: Bingo, bake sale coming up

The senior center hosts a Yard/Bake Sale Oct. 4 and 5 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with cookies, breads, bars, and other goodies, plus clothes, craft items, bedding, kitchen ware and many other items in the yard sale. Bingo begins at 2 p.m. Oct. 12 and includes a special blackout prize.

Sheehy sidesteps responsibility for his words

Montanans deserve a Senator that respects all of us, not one that uses damaging punchlines that divide us.

Mack Days: Anglers reel in nearly 9,000 lake trout by week 5

There are still five weeks left in the 2024 Fall Mack Days Fishing Event on Flathead Lake. A total of 8,730 lake trout entries have been entered so far in this event.

Parents reach plea agreements on endangerment charges

A Ronan couple, accused of exposing their children to drugs, have each reached plea agreements. Trevor John Blackweasel and Ashley Michelle Upham, both 27, were each charged with three counts of endangering the welfare of children.

JoAnn Hall, 88

JoAnn Hall, age 88, passed away from natural causes on May 27, 2024, at St. Luke Extended Care in Ronan. JoAnn was born Dec. 6, 1935, to Dale and Alma (Johnson) Greenland in Kalispell.

Francis Thomas

Francis (Frank) Thomas passed away Sept. 25, 2024, at home surrounded by family. A Celebration of Life will occur on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024, at the Polson Elks, at 2 p.m. All friends and family are welcome.

Cleo C. Walter, 73

Cleo C. Walter, age 73 of Ronan, passed away on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Kalispell Rehabilitation and Nursing Home.

Who's looking out for the children?

Questionable spending, suspension of fiscal responsibilities – who's looking out for the children?

Vote for a hopeful future

What I love about where we live is our community of people. We are friends and neighbors, sometimes with varying views, but always there for each other in times of need.

Passieri's record includes extremism, intimidation

In the race for Montana House District 91, big money is funding billboards in which a smiling David Passieri tells us, “Because I care.” Let's ask: exactly what does Mr. Passieri care about?

Correction to Rocket Kid

Correction: The story about Ronan student Tobias Becker, who earned a trip to the Kennedy Space Center as part of the SpaceKids Press Squad (Leader, Sept. 19) inaccurately attributed the program to Blue Origin.

Ronan Seniors: Looking for cook, dishwasher

Flu shots are available from 12:30-1:30 p.m. Oct. 2. Please bring your insurance card and seniors should bring their Medicare/Part B coverage cards. No one will be denied due to inability to pay.

Legals for October, 2 2024