Friday, March 28
Doreen Trusler, 96
Doreen Margaret Trusler of Polson passed away peacefully during the early morning hours of March 26, 2025, in Ronan.
Jessica Maley, 37
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing away of Jessica Lynn Maley on Feb. 24, 2025, at Sacred Heart Memorial Hospital in Spokane, Wash.
Thursday, March 27
Republican senators say leaders must face ethics investigation
As senators, we are charged with the responsibility to serve the people of Montana by working together to shape laws that are in the best interest of our state. As Republican senators, we believe we have been tasked with pursuing fiscal responsibility and limited, effective government.
Justice for Kaylee Hale delayed due to no-show
John Philip Donaldson, the primary suspect in the death of Kaylee Hale, failed to appear in District Court in Polson March 24 for a trial on domestic abuse charges dating back to Dec. 30, 2023. The Lake County Attorney’s Office issued a warrant for his arrest in the amount of $200,000.
Jana Clairmont, 78
Jana M. Clairmont, 78, died March 20 in Kalispell.
New data released on Lake County population and poverty levels
Updated county-level data recently released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture highlights significant demographic and economic changes in Lake County.
Barred owls take spotlight at Audubon program
"Barred Owl Ecology, Expansion, and Controversy" by Adam Potts will be Mission Mountain Audubon's community program at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, in the Polson Library meeting room.
Polson Softball aims for State in 2025
Expectations and Polson Softball go hand in hand. With plenty of state hardware in the trophy case, they added a third-place finish in last year’s campaign. Head Coach Jami Hanson believes the Lady Pirates are poised to make another strong run toward a state championship this spring.
Local wrestlers find podium at qualifier
Arlee High School hosted the Western Montana Little Guy Wrestling (WMLG) Unit 2 Qualifier on March 15, showcasing impressive talent from young wrestlers across the region.
Bud Cheff entertains gathering of Montana History Buffs
Bud Cheff was the guest speaker at the latest meeting of the Montana History Buffs held at the Miracle of America Museum on March 19.
B-I-N-G-O: Polson seniors host weekly game
Bingo is a regular Friday night event at the Polson Senior Citizens Center. About 30 people were seated in the main room of the center recently as Randy Burley called out the letter and number combo, and players quickly scanned the rows on their cards.
Amelia Cronk: A natural leader
Not only does Amelia Cronk participate at St. Ignatius High School, she excels.
Glittery talent ushers in new era for Pirate track team
Thanks to young talent, familiar faces, and a little bit of glitter it’s a new era for Polson track and field.
Anglers brave rough water during week two of Mack Days
With the second week of 2025 Spring Mack Days in the rearview mirror, anglers still have seven more weekends to enter before the final day on May 10.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Food assistance help available
With the price of food today, people need additional help.
Legals for March, 27 2025
Donald "Don" Lake, 89
Donald William Lake of Ronan, who was 89, joined Jesus and his beloved wife, Bernadine, on Feb. 13, 2025.
Public meeting slated for Post Creek, Ninepipe road projects
The Montana Department of Highways has scheduled a public open house May 1 to provide more information on design and construction plans for U.S. 93 projects for Post Creek and Post Creek Hill and Ninepipe-Eagle Pass Trail areas.
Internet access aid should help Montanans not Musk
Monica Tranel has started publishing on Substack under Monica Tranel from Montana Connections. Her article on broadband access caught my eye as at times I am frustrated with my internet access.
Commissioner praises dealership expansion
I am writing this letter to congratulate Don Aadsen Ford in Ronan on their acquisition of Ronan Motors. This is a large investment in their continuing goal of providing great products and service to the residents of Lake County and the Mission Valley. Ford, Chevrolet, Ram, Dodge, Chrysler and Jeep will all be available under one dealer.
Ronan Seniors: Birthday dinner served March 28
The birthday dinner is Friday, March 28, and features roast beef. Other menu offerings include spaghetti, March 31; and taco bar, April 2.
Mission Valley Calendar
Upcoming events and meetings in the Mission Valley
Ninepipes Museum opens April 3 for season
Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana, located south of Ronan on Hwy. 93, reopens to the public April 3, and celebrates the season with a Spring Community Open House, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. April 5.
Subsidizing healthcare or billionaires
It looks like the only way Congress can pay for tax cuts for billionaires is to cut spending on Medicaid and Medicare. Why? It’s like the bank robber Willie Sutton said when someone asked him why he robbed banks, “That’s where the money is.”
Polson Baseball looks to rebound in 2025 season
After a 2024 campaign that ended short at the state tournament, the Polson Pirates baseball team is looking to turn the page and make another run at postseason success in 2025. Head coach Brad Fisher believes the team has the talent to compete but acknowledges there are areas where improvement is needed.
Polson tennis teams shine in weekend matchups
Polson had a busy start to the tennis season, hosting both Southwest A Conference foe Hamilton and fellow Northwest A Conference squad Libby. The boys split their matches while the girls won both matchups.
Polson Tennis strives to rebuild with young, eager squad
As the 2025 spring tennis season gets underway, the Polson Pirates and Lady Pirates find themselves in an unfamiliar position – rebuilding. For the first time in 19 years, the program lacks a returning all-conference player, but head coach Bob Hislop remains optimistic about the potential of his young squad.
Polson Seniors: Birthday dinner for lunch on March 28
Birthday Dinner for lunch, roast turkey with all the fixings is on the menu March 28.
Polson Softball battles to draw with Belgrade, shuts out Hamilton
Polson’s 2025 softball campaign started near the shores of Flathead Lake with two games that provided a good test for the Lady Pirates’ first time out. Polson recorded a hard-fought 4-4 tie against the Belgrade Lady Panthers before bouncing back with a dominant 6-0 win over Hamilton
Swanky Sisters moves to Creamery Mall
Owner Beverley Osterwyk and her crew moved Swanky Sisters Mercantile to a new location in the Creamery Mall in Ronan three weeks ago, and they’re still unpacking boxes of fabric, notions, baby items and gifts.
Air Alert: UM, Tribes join forces to protect air quality
Blending Western science with tribal knowledge, the University of Montana and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are working together to build infrastructure to combat the growing threat of wildfire smoke exposure in Montana.
Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies
Stories harvested from the Ronan Pioneer, March 30, 1972
HB 207 limits competition for your vote
Last year, I had the honor of running as an Independent candidate for the Public Service Commission in Western Montana. My goal was simple – to stop out-of-control rate hikes that profit out-of-state stakeholders while crushing Montana consumers, including my family.
Tuesday, March 25
Sheryl Ann (Knudsen) Kain
Sheryl Ann Kain passed away early Sunday, March 16, 2025. True to her nature, she gave her battle with cancer everything she had, facing it with the same strength, resilience and determination that defined her life. The family is planning a Celebration of Life on July 19 at 2 p.m. at Leon Hall in Charlo.
Monday, March 24
Comments sought for non-member hunting regs
The Flathead Indian Reservation Advisory Board is seeking comments on the draft 2025-2026 hunting seasons, shooting hours and limits for migratory waterfowl, pheasants and gray partridge for hunters who are not members of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
Emma L. Roberts, 99
Emma L. (Evans) Roberts of Polson went home to heaven peacefully on March 17, 2025. There will be a visitation on Friday, March 28, from 4-6 p.m. at The Lake Funeral Home in Polson. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, March 29, at 11 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, followed by burial in the Ronan Cemetery at 2:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 23
Lynnette Marie Haug Hintze, 68
Lynnette Marie Haug Hintze passed away on March 17, 2025, at the age of 68 in Houston, Texas where she was recovering from a bone marrow transplant after being diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.
Thursday, March 20
“Among the best”: Ronan Chiefs claim fourth at State
The Ronan Chiefs capped off a trophy year at the 2025 State A Boys Basketball Tournament with a fourth-place finish, battling through the grueling three-day event at MetraPark’s First Interstate Arena and Lockwood High School Gym from March 13-15.
Have they no decency at all?
To paraphrase Alexander Hamilton, “only the people can decide, by their conduct and example, whether societies of men and women are really capable or not, of establishing good government from reflection and choice, or whether they are forever destined to depend, for their political constitutions, on accident and force.”
Be the wind
What is a demagogue? Wikipedia says this: A demagogue is a power-seeking person who uses many of the following techniques:
Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies
Stories gleaned from the Lake County Leader, March 20, 1997
Maddy Illig: A portrait of resilience
What does it mean to be resilient? Maddy Illig knows the answer.
Job fair brings employers and job-seekers together
Employers and potential employees packed themselves into the ballroom at the KwaTaqNuk Resort and Casino for the Polson Job Service job fair, held last Wednesday, March 12.
Small-scale nuclear reactors pose big waste problems
Two bills moving through the Montana Senate would encourage siting nuclear reactors and their radioactive waste in Montana (HB 623); and allow importing and enriching uranium from out of state (HB 696).
Ronan man sentenced to 13 years on multiple charges
Kurtis William Snell of Ronan was sentenced in District Court in Polson March 12 to the Montana State Prison for a total of 13 years with eight years suspended.
Idaho prisoner faces local charge of auto theft
A man, currently incarcerated in the Idaho State Prison, is accused of stealing his former girlfriend’s car. Shay Andrew Leach, 35, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson March 13 to felony theft.
Polson man accused of threatening Town Pump employees
A Polson man is accused of threatening employees of the Polson Town Pump. Joseph Channing Entwhistle, 21, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson on March 12 to felony assault with a weapon.
Mission man admits threatening local school
A St. Ignatius man, accused of making threats against the St. Ignatius Elementary School on YouTube, admitted to the related charge of felony intimidation.
Spalliero admits to sexual abuse of children
Anthony Joseph Spalliero, 47 of Ronan, admitted to misrepresenting himself on social media to obtain explicit images of underage girls. He pled guilty in District Court in Polson March 12 to four counts of sexual abuse of children and one count of intimidation for threatening a girl to send more. His bail is set at $500,000.
Ailport attempted murder case now headed back to trial
The attempted murder charge against Paul Glen Ailport is headed back to trial on May 12, after the judge deviated from a plea agreement by adding a weapons enhancement at sentencing.
Meaningful property tax relief not on the agenda
Montana legislators are halfway through the session and blowing their own horns. But a closer look at proposed legislation reveals empty promises and endemic corruption.
Lake Monsters make waves at Montana Swimming Championships
The Lake Monsters Swim Team showcased their talent and tenacity at the 2025 Montana Swimming Short Course Championships in Butte, delivering an impressive performance against stiff competition.
Ronan Council adopts hazard mitigation plan, final budget
Mark Clary, head of the Lake County Emergency Management Office, asked the Ronan City Council to pass a resolution to adopt the Montana Western Montana Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan, 2024-2029. They passed it unanimously at their March 12 meeting.
Cherry growers convene April 5
The 87th annual cherry growers’ meeting, presented by the Flathead Lake Cherry Growers Association, begins at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 5, at the Yellow Bay Community Clubhouse, 23429 MT Hwy. 35.
Jack Adamson
Jack Kelley Adamson of Polson passed away Feb. 28, 2025. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Polson Community Church.
Charlene Fleming
Charlene Fleming, age 70, of Pablo, passed away Sunday, Feb. 23, at her home.
Representative Reksten supports Medicaid HELP Act
This session I’m supporting HB 245, which allows us to continue to provide important investments in rural healthcare.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Check out the Benefit Check Up
Did you know Area VI Council on Aging in Polson has a “Benefit Check Up” program? They will do a benefit screening to see what programs you may qualify for.
Ronan Seniors: Tax preparation help available April 2
The window for AARP tax preparation at the center has narrowed to just one day, April 2. There are still available spots; for an appointment, call the center at 406-676-2371.
Polson Seniors: Seeking meal delivery drivers
Due to the ever-increasing lunchtime food deliveries, we will be able to add an additional route, which should take about 45 minutes. Each route will have about 12 stops. Call for further details about being a volunteer driver. We need your help, please!
Ann Mitchell, 93
Ann Lucille Mitchell of Polson passed away peacefully on Jan. 24, 2025, at the age of 93. She was born in Seattle, Wash., in June of 1931 to Charles F Roening and Anna (Schwartz) Roening. Ann was their only child.
HB 207 makes hurdle higher for third party candidates
There’s an effort in the Legislature to keep Montana citizens off the ballot.
Ronan and Polson athletes shine in Northwest A All-Conference
As the 2024-2025 basketball season comes to a close, athletes from Ronan and Polson have earned well-deserved recognition on the Northwest A All-Conference teams.
County, City at odds over police chief's book
What’s typically a cordial monthly meeting between city and county government officials collapsed last Tuesday afternoon, March 11, after Lake County Commissioner Gale Decker opened the session – which he introduced as “a hearing” – by lambasting a book recently published by Polson Police Chief George Simpson.
Ronan goes green for annual parade
The people of Lake County didn’t seem to notice the blustery weather as they lined Main Street in Ronan Monday, decked head to toe in green for the 36th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Mari Black Trio begins Montana tour in Polson
Mari Black, called “one of the brightest fiddlers around today” (Brian O’Donovan, WGBH radio), and her trio bring a rich blend of musical styles to Montana March 21-30, beginning with Friday’s concert at Polson High School. The show begins at 7 p.m. and is part of the Mission Valley Live concert series.
Mission Valley Calendar
Upcoming events and public meetings in the Mission Valley
Community Action Partnership closes Polson office
The Polson office of the Community Action Partnership of Northwest Montana (CAPNM) closed its doors Friday, March 14. The office was located in the Salish Building at 110 Main Street and has been in Polson for 35 years.
Suspect apprehended after shooting in Dixon
The Dixon Elementary School was closed last Thursday after a shooting occurred outside the Dixon Bar early that morning. The suspected shooter was apprehended Thursday afternoon. Robert J. Gardner, born in 2005, has since been charged with two counts of aggravated assault with a weapon.
Legislators hear from constituents at Ronan forum
The six members of Lake County’s legislative delegation heard from constituents last Wednesday during a forum at the Ronan Community Center.
Legals for March, 20 2025
Wednesday, March 19
Week 1: Mack Days angler lands 38-inch lake trout
The 2025 Spring Mack Days Fishing Event on Flathead Lake started out with anglers saying “fish on” many times over the first few days of the event.
Tuesday, March 18
County launches three road reconstruction projects
Three Lake County roads will be rebuilt this summer, with funding awarded in 2022 from the American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program.
Thursday, March 13
Legals for March, 13 2025
Don Clement, 83
Don Clement of Polson, beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 24, 2025, with his loving wife, Stephanie, and his daughter, Tavia, at his side. He was 83.
Clinton Jay Folden, 68
With heavy hearts, we must say goodbye to Clinton Jay Folden, 69 years old, of Arlee. Clint passed away Feb. 24, 2025, from heart failure and chronic kidney disease.
Tim Bruner, 84
James Timothy Bruner, age 84, of Hockley, Texas, passed away Sunday, March 2, 2025, at his home. He was born Feb. 5, 1941, in Weldon, Texas, to parents Jessie Lee Bruner and Oma Sephronia Shaw Bruner.
Polson Seniors: Looking for volunteer drivers
Due to the ever-increasing lunchtime food deliveries, we will be able to add an additional route. Routes should take about 45 minutes, all within a five-mile radius of Polson.
Cheerful Heart offers free services to cancer patients
Cancer patients in Lake County can receive non-medical help from Cheerful Heart at no cost to a patient currently undergoing treatment.
Patricia Binger
Patricia Sue Binger of Big Arm was born in Long Beach, Calif., on Oct. 1, 1944, to Margaret and Hiram Hovick. Ten days later, having never even met her, her father was killed in a DC-3 crash while on a food dropping mission in the Burma/India area during WWII.
Sotero Muniz Jr.
Sotero Muniz Jr. of Polson died March 3, 2025, at St. Joseph Medical Center.
Pablo man pleads not guilty to charge of 7th DUI
A Pablo man is accused of what prosecutors say is his seventh DUI. Ronald Dale Quaring, 60, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson March 6 to felony DUI, fourth or subsequent.
Francis arraigned on murder, attempted murder charges
A California man accused of murder and attempted murder appeared in District Court in Polson for an arraignment hearing on March 6. Cameron Francis, 49, entered a plea of not guilty to deliberate homicide and attempted deliberate homicide.
Bigfork man admits to firing assault rifle
A Bigfork man admitted to firing rounds from an assault rifle during a domestic disturbance with his girlfriend.
Bipartisanship at its finest
It was 2011. I was travelling on business and I was travelling fast and comfortably in my 1976 Olds 98 with the Olds 455 engine. Coming down from Browning along the Eastern Front on a beautiful late spring afternoon. Zoom!
Commissioner takes issue with police chief's book
The last issue of the Lake County Leader included an article about a recent book written and published by Polson City Chief of Police George Simpson titled, “Polson Chief Authors Book on Public Law 280 and Indian Law.”
Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies
Stories unearthed from the pages of the Flathead Courier, March 14, 1935
Appreciates legislators' support of Medicaid
I am writing to express my gratitude and appreciation to our local legislators for their unwavering support and leadership in voting for HB 245. This crucial legislation has preserved Montana's current Medicaid program, which is vital to the economic wellness of businesses and the health of our community.
Yellow Bay State Park closed for upgrade
Beginning March 17, the Yellow Bay Unit of Flathead Lake State Park will be closed to the public for an upgrade of the 15-acre park between Bigfork and Polson.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Spring into exercise routine
We have sunshine! Regular physical activity (aka exercise) helps to improve mobility, balance, cognitive function, reduce fall risk and improves overall health and well-being.
Ronan Seniors: Two days remain for AARP tax help
Only two days are left for AARP tax preparation at the center: March 19 and April 2. For an appointment, call the center at 406-676-2371.
Chiefs clinch trip to state with third place at divisionals
Ronan had the lead in the first half but blasted the game against Frenchtown right open in the second by scoring 43 points in a 79-58 Western A Divisional Basketball victory on Saturday, March 8, in Whitefish. Added to tournament wins over Columbia Falls and Hamilton, the victory means the Chiefs will be dancing at the state tournament in Billings starting today, when they face Billings Central at noon.
Maidens end season with loss to Columbia Falls
Ronan girls had their highest scoring game of the season, but so did Columbia Falls, which meant the Lady Wildkats defeated the Maidens 68-65 to end their season at the Western A Divisional Tournament on Saturday, March 8. Even in the loss, Ronan shined as they had all season.
Water Warrior: Constanza von der Pahlen honored for stewardship
You could call Constanza von der Pahlen a water warrior for her tireless efforts to improve and conserve western Montana’s priceless waterways. But the Watershed and Wetland Stewardship Award she’ll receive Thursday also makes the point.
Polson commission revisits resort tax
Susan Nicosia, who retired last June after serving as Columbia Falls city manager for 13 years, told the Polson City Commission Monday that a 3% resort tax has been a boon to her community.
Scammers try to impersonate police chief
According to a press release from the Polson Police Department, a phone scam is currently circulating in the community with the caller masquerading as Chief George Simpson.
Antique Ronan grandstand needs help
Last year’s winds peeled a portion of tin roof from the west covered grandstand at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Ronan. But the damaged roof turned out to not be the only issue with the aging structure.
Mission Valley Calendar
Your guide to events and public meetings in the Mission Valley
Constitutional Road Show explores democracy's foundation
The Montana Constitution Road Show travelled to Polson last Friday, drawing a full house in the North Lake County Library meeting room.
Wednesday, March 12
Legals for March, 12 2025
February storms improve precipitation outlook
“February was overall a month of steady snow accumulation in Montana,” said Eric Larson, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) hydrologist. The SNOTEL site in the North Fork Jocko, posted nine inches of precipitation, compared to a median of 7.1 inches for February. The Flathead Basin overall was at 110% of normal as of March 1.
Monday, March 10
Monthly business journal ‘Insights’ to launch in April
A new journal focusing on the economic and entrepreneurial trends that shape Northwest Montana's business communities will make its debut next month.
Thursday, March 6
Pinewood Derby mixes fun and sportsmanship
It’s late Sunday afternoon and the basement of the First Lutheran Church in Ronan is packed and buzzing with anticipation. With chairs pointed toward the track, it’s clear what the excitement is all about: it’s time for the Pinewood Derby.
Divisional Tournament Preview: Ronan vs. Frenchtown
The Ronan Chiefs are set to face off against the Frenchtown Broncs in a pivotal Western A Divisional Tournament matchup in Whitefish. Neither team is a slouch; in fact, they are among the best in the Northwest and Southwest.
Tentative trial date set for three cases
Judge John Mercer set a tentative trial date of July 7 for three separate matters last Thursday.
Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies
Stories gleaned from the Flathead Courier, March 7, 1985:
Births at the Nesting Place
The following new arrivals were recorded recently at St. Joesph Medical Center's Nesting Place in Polson:
Hale family frustrated with pace of justice
Last Wednesday was a sunny morning – too beautiful for the sadness members of Kaylee Hale’s family and friends felt as they gathered in front of the Lake County Courthouse. Ravens cawed raucously as Hale’s grandmother and aunts handed out bright red signs and t-shirts reading “Justice for Kaylee.”
Coup stick presented to Polson Police chief
The Polson City Commission meeting on March 3 started a little differently than usual as Ken Camel stepped to the lectern. Camel came bearing the gift of a coup stick – also known as a greeting stick – for Polson Police Chief George Simpson.
Mission Valley Calendar
Your guide to Mission Valley events and public meetings
Polson chief authors books on Public Law 280 and Indian law
Weighty stacks of “Odyssey of the Flathead Indian Reservation and Public Law 280” and “An Odyssey of American Indian Case Law” sat beside George Simpson as he signed copies last Friday at the North Lake County Public Library in Polson.
Legals for March, 6 2025
Spring Mack Days begins March 13
Spring Mack Days on Flathead Lake begin next Thursday, March 13, and continued through May 10 with nine weeks of lake trout fishing on one of the northwest’s most beautiful freshwater lakes.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Bingo, audiologist on tap March 8
It looks like winter may be gradually relenting to spring? March is still to come.
Polson woman sentenced for negligent arson
A Polson woman, convicted of negligent arson, was committed in District Court in Polson Feb. 26 to the Montana Department of Corrections for five years with two years suspended.
Arraignment postponed for accused murderer
The arraignment hearing for a California man, facing murder and attempted murder charges, was continued to March 6 to give the Montana Public Defender’s Office time to appoint legal counsel.
Ronan woman admits to buying, selling fentanyl
A Ronan woman admitted to her role in bringing fentanyl to Lake County to distribute. Dorthea Carman, 34, pled guilty in District Court in Polson Feb. 27 to criminal possession with intent to distribute.
Lady Bulldogs finish third at Divisionals
The Mission Lady Bulldogs wrapped up their Western B Divisional run with a strong 56-34 victory over Thompson Falls in the consolation final, securing third place in the tournament on Saturday, March 1.
Lady Vikings win two, lose two at Divisionals
Lady Vikings make it to to consolation final in Western C Divisional Tournament in Butte.
Fire protection will suffer from layoffs
In the Flathead Valley we live in a fire prone area. Many of us have evacuated because of fires, or have packed and been ready to evacuate as we’ve watched smoke and flames advance. Don’t expect as much fire protection this summer.
We are no longer 'Leader of the Free World'
For the first time since the end of WWII, the position of “Leader of the Free World” is vacant. Donald Trump relinquished that title formally on Friday with a disastrous and embarrassing meeting with Ukraine’s President Zelensky, and all the world watched it unfold.
Polson Chamber honors community champions
Women wore flamboyant hats and frisky dresses, while men took their best stab at Kentucky Derby apparel in the Polson Chamber of Commerce’s annual community banquet, held Feb. 21 at KwaTaqNuk Resort. The chamber celebrated the outstanding contributions of local businesses, volunteers and leaders while embracing a Kentucky Derby theme to recognize those “who go the extra mile for Polson.”
Where is the outrage, Republicans?
The demented and dangerous actions of President Elon Musk and King Donald Trump, two of the richest men in the world, take aim at the poorest children in the world by dismantling the AID programs.
Jack Stivers steps in as county extension agent
Longtime MSU Extension agent Jack Stivers is back in the saddle again, sharing wisdom and ag advice at the MSU Lake County Extension Office in Ronan.
Let the shenanigans begin: Ronan celebrates St. Patrick's Day
Everyone will be looking for a pot of gold at the 36th annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, 5:30 p.m. March 17 in Ronan.
Government study commission welcomes input
We only get the opportunity to review our government every 10 years, and your study commission would like the input from the citizens of Polson to help us make sound decisions.
Marriages & Divorces
The following marriages and divorces were recorded recently at the Lake County Courthouse in Polson:
Objects to AG Knudsen's efforts to undo Section 504 protections
Montana State Attorney General Austin Knudsen is one of 17 Attorneys General who are suing to have Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act declared unconstitutional. Section 504 protects people with disabilities from discrimination at school and in the workplace.
Ronan City Council plans to “go to school” on SIDs
Mission Valley Homesites developer Mark Drinkwater and his attorney, James Raymond, were on hand at last Wednesday’s Ronan City Council meeting. They were on the agenda with a second request to create a Special Improvement District (SID) in Drinkwater’s 221-lot subdivision on the southeast edge of Ronan.
Mission falls to Troy to end season
Despite a strong start, the Mission Bulldogs couldn’t hold off a second-half surge from the Troy Trojans, falling 61-50 in the Western B Divisional Tournament in Hamilton on Friday, Feb. 28. Mission finished the season 8-16 after coming into the divisional tournament with a No. 4 seed.
Polson bows out of postseason with Bigfork loss
In a hard-fought Western A Divisional tournament play-in matchup on Saturday, March 1, the Polson Pirates came up short against the Bigfork Vikings, 55-46, in a contest where crucial momentum swings made the difference. The Pirates finished the season 10-10.
Arlee’s season ends with loss to Anaconda
In a win-or-go-home matchup, the Arlee Warriors gave everything they had. Still, they fell just short in a 49-44 loss to the Anaconda Copperheads, bringing their season to a close in the Western B Divisional Tournament on Saturday, March 1.
Two Eagle wins play-in game, but drops two tourney contests
Two Eagle River opened its Western C Divisional Tournament with a dominant performance against Twin Bridges in the play-in game on Monday, Feb. 27, securing an 83-66 victory and advancing to the main bracket. However, the Eagles dropped games to St. Regis and West Yellowstone in Butte, ending their season 13-13.
Polson girls end season at hands of Browning
In their first game of the Western A Divisional basketball tournament, the Polson Lady Pirates faced off against the Browning Lady Indians. In a contest that saw a sluggish start for the Lady Pirates, Browning came out on top, winning 65-52 on Saturday, March 1. The Lady Pirates earned their way into the first round by besting Whitefish 38-29 in the play-in game on Thursday, Feb. 27.
Sign up now for spring session of hunters education
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks team up to offer a hunters’ education class in early April.
Ronan Seniors: Drop by and say ‘so long’ to head cook
Our head cook, Kim Bauer, is retiring and her last day is March 14. Stop by and wish her the best!
Mary Jo Pugh, 80
We share sad news that Mary Jo Pugh passed away Feb. 9, 2025, in Roseville, Calif., after a short illness. Mary Jo was born June 16, 1944, in Polson, the first child of David R. and Johanna (Kray) Pugh. She attended Polson public schools, graduating as co-valedictorian in 1962.
Joe Quinn: More than an educator, more than a coach
Joe Quinn is a firework salesman, father and AC/DC enthusiast. Despite these labels however, for almost 20 years the community of Polson has known him by his surname, often linked with Mr. or Coach.
Wednesday, March 5
Legals for March, 5 2025
Local legislators offer update next Wednesday
Curious about what local legislators have accomplished in Helena? Plan to attend a legislative update next Wednesday, March 12, at 6:30 p.m. at the Ronan Community Center.
Valkyries prove tough matchup for Ronan
The league-leading Bigfork Valkyries (16-2) set the tone early and never looked back, cruising to a 51-35 victory over the Ronan Maidens in a Northwest A Conference matchup on Monday, Feb. 24.
Teddy Roosevelt Show comes to Polson and Ronan
By all accounts, Joe Wiegand bears an uncanny resemblance to President Theodore Roosevelt. Wiegand, an acclaimed impersonator, evokes the 26th president of the United States, in The Teddy Roosevelt Show, which he’ll perform in Ronan and Polson today and tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 4
Dorothy Rinke, 99
On Feb. 26, 2025, Dorothy E. Rinke of Round Butte, passed away at the age of 99. A Celebration of Life and potluck will be held at the Round Butte Club House at 1 p.m. March 9. Please bring your favorite dish or dessert along with your stories and photos to share.
Kenneth "Kenny" Prewett, 77
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Kenneth Allen Prewett, beloved husband, father, grandfather, pastor and friend, on Feb. 28, 2025. Services for Kenny will be held on Saturday, March 8, at Jocko Valley Baptist Church in Arlee. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m., with the funeral service at 12:30 p.m., followed by a small graveside service in Polson at Lakeview Cemetery.
