Thursday, May 29
Richard H. 'Rick' Taylor, 78
It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of our beloved Dad and Grandpa, Richard Harvey “Rick” Taylor, on Friday, April 25, 2025, at his home in Polson.
Mission man accused of threatening sheriff, courthouse
A St. Ignatius man is accused of making threats to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Lake County Courthouse. Joshua Aaron Kenney-Greenwood, 45, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson on May 21 to felony intimidation.
State titles, personal bests at Class A Track Championships
Between two state titles, podium finishes, and personal records, competitors from Lake County schools made their mark among Montana’s best.
Mission Valley Calendar
Upcoming events and meetings in the Mission Valley
Polson Seniors: Mourning Harvey Kinitzer
The Polson Senior Community mourns the death of our longtime volunteer Harvey Kinitzer. He was a reliable asset for us in many capacities, including our transportation program.
Koldeway sentenced for felony sexual assault
A Polson man accused of assaulting a minor was sentenced May 21 in District Court in Polson to 10 years with the Montana Department of Corrections, with all but six months jail time suspended.
PEO awards two memorial scholarships
PEO marguerite daisies were in full bloom as they were presented to Polson High School seniors Olivia Jore and Alyssa Orien along with $1,000 Chapter AI Memorial Scholarships on Senior Signing Day.
Leo Dean Howell, 82
Leo Dean Howell, 82, of Bellows Falls, Vt., passed away May 10, 2025, after a tragic accident at his home.
Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation awards 35 scholarships
Polson Scholarship and Education Foundation (PSEF) awarded 35 scholarships totaling $52,000 to Polson High School seniors and former Polson High School graduates who are currently attending an accredited two-year, four-year program, community college, university or vocational school.
Polson Softball takes second at State
The Polson Lady Pirates wrapped up the 2025 campaign with a second-place finish at the State A Softball Tournament in Columbia Falls, battling through a challenging five-game stretch that included a blowout win, a pair of tight victories, and two losses to eventual state champion Frenchtown.
Sharbono tops in Class B discus
At the 2025 MHSA Class B/C State Track and Field Championships, held May 22–24 at Missoula County Public Schools Stadium, Lake County had one state champion and several placers.
Jury finds Baszler guilty of weapon assault
After a day-long trial, a Lake County jury found a Polson man guilty of assault with a weapon. Jury selection began Monday, May 19, in District Court in Polson for Eric Walter Baszler, 42. On Tuesday morning, Baszler was found guilty.
Ronan Seniors: Birthday dinner Friday
Birthday dinner, roast beef, Friday May 30
Suspect in Christmas Day shooting pleads not guilty
Elijah Cajune, accused of shooting and killing a Polson man early Christmas morning in 2024, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson May 21 to deliberate homicide. Cajune, 18, was afforded the opportunity to have his case transferred to youth court because he was 17 at the time of the alleged murder, but he waived the hearing.
Bills offer real relief on residential property taxes
Did you know that California residents now own $9.5 billion of residential property in Montana? They enjoy the ability to vacation here without paying a dime in Montana income tax.
Richard Orton, 75
Richard Orton of Polson, 75, died May 18.
James "Jim" Thomas Collins, 82
On the evening of April 25, 2025, James “Jim” Thomas Collins ascended from this earthly realm, carried on the mighty wings of an eagle, departing from Silver Springs Assisted Living Facility in Townsend, Mont. Jim’s final resting place will be the Montana State Veterans Cemetery at Fort Harrison, with interment June 6, 2025. A memorial service is planned for June 7, at 1 p.m. at Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home in Townsend, followed by a small reception at the Mint Cafe/Bar.
Arlee’s River Gray makes quiet contributions
During his time at Arlee High School Gray has been involved in athletics like basketball and track and was an officer in National Honor Society as well as the president of HOSA, an organization for Future Health Professionals.
Letter from yore offers reminder of immigrants' value today
Several decades ago, Mr. Grit Boring, an immigrant to this country, wrote a letter to the editor of the Missoulian with a grateful message to Judge Russell Smith and to the citizens of this country.
Polson Tennis wraps up season with gritty effort
Though no players advanced deep into the tournament, several Pirates notched first-round victories and battled through the consolation brackets before bowing out against tough competition.
Amorette Marie Gaither, 77
The tender hand that once held mine now finds eternal peace, but the memory of that gentle touch remains a cherished treasure in my heart.
Gloria Edith Lawrenz, 92
Gloria Edith Lawrenz, 92: June 29, 1932 – May 14, 2025.Service: June 28, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Lakeview Cemetery, Polson, on the shores of Flathead Lake.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Balance is important for health and safety
As we age, balance is important for health and safety. Decrease in balance can lead to falls, injuries and reduced independence.
DOJ prosecutor to discuss elder scams
The Department of Justice’s elder justice prosecutor and investigator will visit St. Ignatius June 11 to discuss elder scam’s and exploitation.
Tax credits help U.S. keep clean-tech edge
Many countries are investing in clean-tech products like solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles (EVs). The U.S. has long been a tech leader.
Cast of 35 performs "Fiddler on the Roof"
The Port Polson Players’ 50th season continues when a cast of 35 takes the stage for “Fiddler on the Roof” June 5-15.
Kalispell woman admits to causing fatal crash on Polson bridge
A Kalispell woman admitted causing a fatal head-on crash on the Armed Forces Memorial Bridge in Polson last May.
Commissioners backpedal on controversial resolution
Lake County Commission Chair Gale Decker seemed a little wary as he stepped to the microphone for last Thursday’s public hearing. The topic, a resolution to impose a Notice of New Construction for any property improvements in Lake County, had already drawn ample ire on social media, and the commissioners were apt to attract more of the same from the crowd of at least 75 people filling the courthouse conference room, and another 20 or so tuning in via Zoom.
Pablo kids celebrate new skate park
The commotion was thanks to a fresh skate park located on Pablo West Road and tons of tunes blasting out new and old hits. The new park also features two bowls which drew skaters of all ages and skill levels to the event.
MAC Softball battles to fourth place
The Mission-Arlee-Charlo (MAC) softball team capped a stellar season with a fourth-place finish at the State B/C Tournament held May 22-24 in Glasgow, earning a pair of dramatic one-run victories and battling through a loaded bracket that included perennial contenders.
Two Eagle River grads take first walk of season
The Chief Cliff Singers sang and drummed the 2025 Two Eagle River High graduates into the packed gym Sunday for the first graduation of the season.
Help and support hallmarks of annual Women 4 Wellness
Women 4 Wellness once again brought healthcare seekers and healthcare providers to the Joe McDonald Health and Fitness Center at Salish Kootenai College last Thursday.
Honoring those who gave their today so we can have tomorrow
Amid the sturdy ponderosa pines, fresh flowers, wreaths and miniature flags punctuated the graves of veterans at Mountain View Cemetery in Ronan Monday. Chaplain and Korean War veteran Richard Tobel quietly invoked President Franklin D. Roosevelt and General George Patton.
Ronan Charter Academy to open this fall
Josh Illig, the new director of the Ronan Charter Academy understands that some learning environments might be challenging for certain students. He believes the new academy, which opens this fall, could “provide a more flexible learning environment to meet the needs of more students.”
Legals for May, 29 2025
Wednesday, May 28
Motorcycle fatality reported at Buffalo Bridge
On Wednesday, the Lake County Sheriff released the name of a 41-year-old man who died after an off-road motorcycle crash May 25 near the Flathead River. Jake D. McConnell of Belgrade died at approximately 2:25 p.m. while riding his motorcycle near Buffalo Bridge.
Harvey Kenitzer, 80
Harvey John Kenitzer, a longtime resident of Polson, passed away peacefully at home on May 21, 2025, at the age of 80. A memorial service will be held at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Thursday, June 5, at 11 a.m.
Thursday, May 22
Volunteer firefighters gather for spring training
Around 100 volunteer firefighters convened at the CSKT Division of Fire headquarters last Friday and Saturday for the Lake County Fire Association Spring Training.
Pablo Skatepark celebrates Grand Opening
The community of Pablo is invited to celebrate the grand opening of the Pablo Skatepark from noon-2:30 p.m. May 24. The event will feature food from Cheers Etcetera, music by DJ Foreshadow and Salish Drum, and skateboarding.
Legals for May, 22 2025
Missoula woman appears on drug charges
A Missoula woman is accused of dealing drugs in Lake County. Reba Hawkins, 37, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson May 15 to felony criminal possession with intent to distribute.
Mission Valley Calendar
Upcoming events and meetings in the Mission Valley
BREAKTHROUGH: Governor signs PL 280 bill
“Well, it’s the end of a long journey,” said Lake County Commissioner Gale Decker about newly minted legislation regarding Public Law 280, a law enforcement agreement between Lake County and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
Sandpiper Gallery awards four art scholarships
Sandpiper Art Gallery & Gifts recently awarded scholarships ranging from $500 to $3,000 to four Salish Kootenai College students.
St-Char-Ro: A blooming success at 50
Main Street in Ronan was closed to traffic Saturday as St-Char-Ro celebrated its 50th anniversary with a street fair, inflatable bounce houses, classic cars and even a miniature race track.
Athletes excel at Western B/C Divisional Track Championships
Athletes from Mission, Arlee, Charlo and Two Eagle River delivered strong performances at the Western B/C Divisional Track and Field Championships held May 16-17 at MCPS Stadium in Missoula, collecting top-six finishes across a wide range of events and earning qualifications to the upcoming state meet.
The Big (true) Beautiful (not so much) Bill
After all the concern about runaway government spending and the hand wringing about the budget deficit why on earth would Congress want to pass a tax bill that cuts taxes for the 400-plus American billionaires, pays for it by penalizing sick and lower income people and STILL increases the deficit by $3 trillion?
Commissioners hold hearing on proposed construction notice
The Lake County Commissioners are holding a public hearing today on a resolution that would require property owners to file a “notice of new construction” with the planning department. The proposed fee is $5 if filed before the project begins, and goes up to $1,000 if filed after construction begins.
Will you show some humanity and look out for Montanans?
Let’s talk about how Republicans in Congress want to throw millions of Americans off their health insurance so the ultra-wealthy and corporations can get tax breaks. If this statement sounds hyperbolic, I hate to break it to you: it’s the cold, hard truth.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Slow down on salt intake
Foot care with Mandy Jo on May 27. The cost is $30. Call the center (406-745-4462) to schedule. Next Bingo date is June 14.
New pediatric dentist comes to town
If one walks into the recently opened building that sits diagonally across the highway from Mcdonald’s they might think it to be like any other dental office in the United States. Big glass doors enter into an open waiting area with a semi-oval desk to check-in at. That is living life at the level of an adult.
Polson music students earn superior ratings at state festival
Several members of the Polson High School Band and Choir received Superior ratings at the State Music Festival, May 2-3 in Great Falls.
Flathead Bio Station installs second erosion control beach
A second dynamic erosion control beach has been established at Flathead Lake Biological Station on Yellow Bay to help prevent land from being washed away by waves.
Head-on collision kills young Elmo woman
A collision early Saturday morning near Big Arm resulted in the death of a 22-year-old woman from Elmo.
Garden of the Rockies Museum reopens in June
The Garden of the Rockies Museum in Ronan provides a place where the essential connections between generations, represented by the materials, images, and stories of local history can be protected, shared and used as educational tools.
Fur Harvesters hold spring rendezvous in Ronan
Mountain men dressed in furs, buckskins and capotes made from Hudson Bay blankets mingled with their modern-day counterparts, attired in fleeces and jeans, at the Fur Harvesters Spring Rendezvous, May 16-17 in Ronan.
Entwistle pleads guilty to Town Pump knife threat
A Ronan man, accused of threatening another person with a knife, entered a plea of guilty in District Court in Polson May 14 to felony assault with a weapon.
MAC Bulldogs drop pair in shutout losses
The MAC Bulldogs baseball team endured a tough week on the diamond, suffering back-to-back shutout losses to Florence-Carlton and Frenchtown.
MAC Softball punches ticket to State
The Mission-Arlee-Charlo softball team secured its spot at the Class B state tournament with two strong wins and one tough loss at the Western B/C Divisional tournament in Florence, improving its season record to 19-6.
Eureka offense overpowers Ronan
The Eureka Lions used a fast start and a pair of big innings to hand the Ronan Chiefs a 14-4 loss in their final game of the season Tuesday evening.
Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies
Stories harvested from the Flathead Courier, May 10, 1984
Polson Police Department honors fallen chief
Members of the Polson Police Department traveled to Washington, D.C., last week to participate in National Police Week 2025, where they honored Polson’s first chief of police, John Emory Hern, who died in the line of duty more than a century ago.
Lynn Trombetta, 72
Lila ‘Lilavati’ (Lynn) Trombetta journeyed from this earth on May 6, 2025. She died peacefully with her beloved cat, Das, by her side at her home in Hot Springs.
Ronan Seniors: Remember our veterans
We will be closed May 26th for Memorial Day! Remember our Veterans!
Ronan softball season ends with shutout loss
The Ronan Maidens’ softball season came to a close Saturday afternoon with a 7-0 loss to Stevensville in a Class A state tournament play-in game.
Kiwanis luncheon honors groups that nurture kids
The mission of Kiwanis is serving children, one child at a time. At last Thursday’s luncheon at KwaTaqNuk Resort and Casino, that mission came to fruition as the group dispensed checks to organizations that help children.
Ronan and Polson athletes qualify for State
Ronan and Polson athletes turned in a string of top-six finishes and personal bests at the Western A Divisional Track and Field Championships, held May 16–17 at the Polson Athletic Complex. Facing fierce competition from powerhouse programs like Columbia Falls, Corvallis, and Whitefish, local athletes earned their way onto the podium and into state contention.
Veterans lead Memorial Day processions
The Mission Valley Honor Guard will lead Memorial Day processions in Ronan and Polson on Monday, with each parade ending at community cemeteries to commemorate fallen soldiers.
Audubon program explores longspur habitat
"Fatal Attraction for an Imperiled Songbird: Is Cropland in the northern Great Plains an Ecological Trap for the Thick-billed longspur?” is Mission Mountain Audubon's community program at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 29, in the Polson Library Meeting Room.
Wilma Charleen Perkins
A Celebration of Life for Wilma Charleen Perkins will be held May 31, with a family graveside service at 11 a.m. and a reception to follow at noon at the Presbyterian Church in Polson.
Saving the lives of innocent children is never a crime
The October 7, 2023, attack on Israel marked a horrible day. Some Montanans might say this issue doesn’t involve us. I disagree. When genocide is committed using American tax dollars and equipment, it becomes our problem.
Polson Seniors: Closed Memorial Day
Monday, May 26: Memorial Day, we are closed. Go see the parade and ceremonies honoring our war dead.
Polson Tennis qualifies several for State
Polson High School tennis athletes turned in a gritty, resilient performance at the Western A Divisional Tournament last week, qualifying several competitors for the state tournament and finishing second overall in the girls team standings behind Whitefish.
Polson Baseball wraps up season
The Polson Pirates wrapped up a successful 2025 baseball season with a series of mixed results at the Sapa-Johnsrud Tournament in Whitefish, finishing with a 14-7 overall record but falling short of a state tournament berth.
Wednesday, May 21
Jury finds Ailport guilty of attempted homicide, arson
Paul Ailport, accused of setting his truck on fire and intentionally driving into his neighbor’s home, was convicted by a Lake County jury on felony charges of attempted deliberate homicide with use of weapon, criminal mischief and arson.
Legals for May, 21 2025
Thursday, May 15
How can you not be romantic about softball?
Jesse Nesper, the head coach of the Mission-Arlee-Charlo softball team, turned the phrase just slightly as he watched his team practice from the dugout. “How can you not be romantic about softball?”
This land is your land
One thing of great value, that every American citizen owns, is public lands. National parks and monuments, Forest Service lands, Bureau of Land Management lands, rivers. They are where we hike, sightsee, fish, hunt and camp. Public lands are at risk of being sold.
Ag Days brings kids to the Cheff ranch
Sun shining through trees dappled the grass and washed over the bright spring grass as school buses trundled down the road to Fourth Grade Ag Days at Buddy and Brittany Cheff’s place above Kicking Horse Reservoir, south of Ronan.
Casino construction gets underway
Kraus-Anderson (KA) recently began construction on 400 Horses Casino, located west of Polson on tribal land and managed by S&K Gaming for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
Marriages & Divorces
The following marriages and divorces were recorded recently at the Lake County Courthouse in Polson:
Robert "Bob" Gauthier, 75
Robert L. “Bob” Gauthier, 75 of Ronan, passed away surrounded by his family on Feb. 8, 2025. A Celebration of Life will be held for Bob on Friday, May 23, at 11 a.m. at the Salish Kootenai College, Joe McDonald Center in Pablo.
SKC names health science building for Dorene Vallee
Salish Kootenai College honors the legacy of Dorene Dupuis Vallee with a ceremony naming the Vallee Building at 11 a.m. May 30.
Mission Bulldogs make their mark at District 7B track meet
The St. Ignatius boys’ track and field team turned in an impressive all-around performance at the District 7B Meet on Friday, May 9, with top-three finishes across sprints, distance, throws, and jumps — a strong showing as the Bulldogs gear up for the divisional and state rounds.
Lake County athletes punch tickets to Divisionals
Athletes from Arlee, Charlo, and Two Eagle River turned in strong performances at the District 6B and 13C meet May 9-10 at MCPS Stadium in Missoula, with several finishing in the top three and advancing to the divisional meet.
Volunteers plant 33 ponderosa pines at Finley Point park
On Earth Day 2025, Encompass LLC sponsored a tree restoration project at the Finley Point Unit of Flathead Lake State Park in partnership with Montana State Parks, AmeriCorps and the Montana State Parks Foundation.
Polson Baseball picks up two victories
The Polson Pirates continued their impressive run through the spring season, going 3-1 over a busy stretch of games and improving to 12-5 on the year. Polson earned wins over Ronan, Plains-Hot Springs, and Frenchtown before falling to a red-hot Columbia Falls team on May 12.
MAC Softball rolls to 4-2 week
The Mission-Arlee-Charlo (MAC) softball team delivered a dominant stretch of play over four days, winning four of six games and improving to 17-5 on the season. With their bats staying hot and pitching depth on display, MAC secured big wins over Powell County, Anaconda, Huntley Project and Cut Bank, while dropping a close one to Conrad and another tight contest to Glasgow/Hinsdale/Nashua.
Snowpack drops as stream flows increase
April ushered in the transition from winter to spring in the Montana snowpack accumulation season.
View from the Library: A summer preview
Where does the time go? It’s hard to believe we’re already gearing up for another Summer Reading Program here at the library. The “Color Our World” program runs from June 9 through Aug. 7 and we’re bringing back the beloved Bug Race.
Spring Mack Days sets a new record
Spring Mack Days on Flathead Lake, sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, wrapped up Saturday, May 10, breaking the 2019 Spring Event record of 40,362 lake trout with a total of 60,138 entries turned in over the nine weeks of fishing.
Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies
Stories harvested from the Lake County Leader, May 17, 2001
River Honoring celebrates elders, educators
With the Flathead River flowing behind him, Elder Johnny Arlee opened the 38th annual River Honoring on Monday night with a prayer in Salish and some special words for the gathering. This year’s River Honorees are elders Violet Trahan and Germaine White and educators Nicole Camel, Polson, and Jennifer Jilot and Bill Stockton, Arlee.
Ronan holds off late rally to top Noxon/Thompson Falls
A strong outing on the mound from Liam Jackson and timely hitting helped lift the Ronan Chiefs to a 4-2 victory over the Noxon/Thompson Falls Red Devils on Thursday evening.
Registration open for drug awareness presentations
Registration is now open for a free Drug Awareness and Community presentation by the Polson Police Department and the Flathead Tribal Police on Wednesday, June 19, at the library in Polson.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Nice weather but stay safe
With the nice weather and yard work that needs to be done, safety is a top priority.
Legals for May, 15 2025
Sentinel Spartans overwhelm MAC Bulldogs
The MAC Bulldogs fell to 1-10 on the season after a difficult outing against the Sentinel Spartans on Wednesday, May 7, suffering a 12-1 loss at home.
Freedom Caucus fought against property tax reform
This session a group of Montanans – Republicans and Democrats, conservatives and liberals – came together to deliver meaningful property tax relief. Unfortunately, a group of Montana lawmakers stood in the way and are now actively campaigning to get Governor Gianforte to veto meaningful property tax reform for you.
Polson Boxing Club member competes at Golden Gloves
Polson Boxing Club athlete Oziah HeavyRunner represented Montana at the Rocky Mountain Regional Golden Gloves Tournament, held April 12-13 in Salt Lake City.
Polson and Ronan track athletes shine with strong finishes
With state just around the corner, the Nelson-Thomas ABC Meet on Saturday, May 10 gave Polson and Ronan athletes a prime opportunity to test themselves against top regional competition.
Election results posted for schools, library and fire districts
Across Lake County last week, a smattering of mail ballots – 3,665 in all – were cast for school board, library and fire district trustees, as well as in three school levies.
The graduation season begins
With six high schools and one college in Lake County, graduation season is hectic for students, families and friends.
Ronan Maidens pick up two late-season wins
The Ronan Maidens softball team improved to 10-8 on the season after winning two out of three games. Ronan posted back-to-back wins over Dawson County and Anaconda before falling to the Havre Blue Ponies.
Births at the Nesting Place
The following babies were recently welcomed at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center’s Nesting Place in Polson:
Ronan Seniors: Thank you Lacy Mutchler
We’d like to give a big Thanks to Lacy Mutchler for the wonderful job she did on our flower beds!
Weary weeder could use a hand with Main Street flowerbeds
It all started five years ago. I noticed the VFW bump-out, as I call the flowerbeds at the four corners on Polson’s Main Street, was looking pretty ratty. My husband, father and grandfathers are/were veterans. I felt they and all veterans deserved a better recognition.
Lawrence Ruffatto, 93
Larry Pete Ruffatto, 93 of Ronan, was born Nov. 18, 1931, in Corvallis, and went to rest on April 29, 2025, after a long battle with cancer. He passed peacefully.
Lady Pirates go 4-2 over busy week
The Polson Lady Pirates softball team faced a packed schedule with six games over five days, emerging with a 4-2 record and improving to 16-5-1 on the season. Along the way, Polson picked up dominant wins over Custer County and Anaconda and earned key victories against Laurel and Florence-Carlton, while battling Columbia Falls and narrowly falling to the Wildkats in a 15-13 thriller.
Gregg Doerfler, 70
Gregg Allen Doerfler, age 70, passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at his residence in Polson. There are no services planned at this time for Gregg.
Mission Valley Calendar
Upcoming events and meetings in the Mission Valley
Polson Seniors: Birthday dinner next Friday
Birthday Dinner on May 23 brings the good stuff: roast beef and cake!
Samantha Rensvold: A team player
This time of year, you’ll find Samantha Rensvold with the ball in her hands in the middle of the pitching circle – a position with unquestionable spotlight and responsibility.
Wednesday, May 14
Legals for May, 14 2025
Tuesday, May 13
Second suspect arrested in death of Ed Loder
A second suspect in the death of Edwin Loder, 67, is in custody at the Lake County Jail. Jonathan Michael Drennan-Beck, 30, of St. Ignatius, was arrested May 6 and booked into the jail on felony charges of conspiracy (deliberate homicide) and tampering with or fabricating physical evidence.
Monday, May 12
Brett McCrumb, 61
Brett Thomas McCrumb of Polson arrived in his final Home with Jesus on May 7, 2025. He dealt with a cancer diagnosis over a year ago with courage. He tried treatments and health regimes that would help, but he always relied on the attitude and truth of “I know where I’m going.” His Celebration of Life is Monday, May 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. at his parents’ place, The Barn at Finley Point, with a cemetery burial to follow.
Bruce Newby, 69
Bruce Edward Newby of Pablo went home to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on May 6, 2025. His graveside-only service is Friday, May 16, at Lone Pine Cemetery next door to the Little Brown Church at the corner of MT Hwy. 35 and Swan Hwy. in Bigfork, Montana. Bruce’s funeral procession will depart from the 4B’s parking lot in Polson at 10:20 a.m. May 16.
Thursday, May 8
MAC Baseball drops third straight game
The Mission-Arlee-Charlo baseball team suffered its third consecutive loss Tuesday, falling 11-4 to visiting Stevensville in St. Ignatius.
Polson, Ronan dominate annual Lake County Track Meet
The 2025 Lake County Track and Field Meet brought together athletes from across the area last Thursday at Ronan High School, with Polson and Ronan asserting dominance in both boys and girls competition amid warm weather and intense performances.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Farmers markets opening this month
Farmer’s Markets will be open this month. Take advantage of the fresh fruits, vegetables, and other items they will offer
Polson Seniors: Board of directors meeting on the horizon
The board of directors meeting is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on the second Friday of each month. The meetings are open to the public. You have a voice; your opinion is welcome and respected.
Polson tennis wraps busy weekend against Bigfork, Corvallis
The Polson tennis teams had a packed weekend of match play across western Montana, securing a pair of team victories over Bigfork on Friday and splitting with Corvallis
Brown pleads guilty to gun theft
A St. Ignatius man admitted to breaking into an occupied residence to commit a theft. Gentry William Brown, 27, entered a plea of guilty in District Court in Polson May 1 to felony burglary.
Reum accused of stealing camper
A Polson woman is accused of stealing a camper trailer. Erica Joanne Reum, 39, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson May 1 to felony theft.
NPR and PBS enrich lives, need federal support
NPR and PBS connect us to the world. Our lives are richer and more interesting because of these organizations. Now an Executive Order has threatened to take away federal funding.
Wendy Rae Fairchild, 62
We are devastated to announce that our family rock, Wendy Rae Fairchild, passed unexpectedly at home in Polson on Monday, April 21, 2025.
Community action can make a difference
The events surrounding Beker Rengifo Del Castillo, the 33-year-old Venezuelan man living in Whitefish and taken into ICE custody on April 24 before being released, speak to the efficacy of community organizing right here in northwest Montana.
Two Eagle students showcase talent at Art Slam
Emcee Tilden Sankadore held up his cell phone flashlight and started swaying to the song one of the Two Eagle River students was singing and the audience joined him. Singing was one of the many talents on display last Wednesday at Two Eagle River School’s 23rd annual Art Slam.
Face time at the City Hall Open House
Despite the senses and weather saying summer it is still spring. However, that didn’t stop the City Hall Open House event from being a fun time for everyone involved.
Pro and amateur golfers compete at Lake City Open
The 35th Annual Polson Scholarship & Education Foundation Lake City Open once again brought some of Montana’s premier amateur and professional golfers to the Polson Bay Golf Course May 3-4.
Ronan Baseball drops three straight in tough stretch
The Ronan baseball team endured a challenging run last week, falling in three consecutive games against Whitefish and Polson to drop to 5-9-1 on the season.
MAC Softball rebounds from tough loss with weekend sweep
After a difficult midweek loss to Florence-Carlton, the Mission-Arlee-Charlo softball team roared back with a pair of convincing wins over Three Forks and Ennis on Saturday, improving to 13-3 on the season and continuing their red-hot stretch.
Polson Softball powers past Ronan, Libby
It was a busy week for Lake County softball as Polson continued its dominant run with back-to-back wins over Ronan and Libby, while Ronan fell in two games, including a thrilling extra-inning contest against Columbia Falls.
Letter asks governor to veto bills that weaken environmental protections
We are gathered at Salish Kootenai College to celebrate Earth Day, and to follow the teachings of tribal elders: to take care of all we have been given, our lands and waters and air, the plants and animals, and to ensure they are healthy and abundant for all the generations to come. We are therefore writing to urge you to veto six bills now before you that would weaken protections for our environment at the very moment when our natural systems are more imperiled than ever before in human history.
Polson Baseball bounces back with dominant weekend
After dropping a close contest to Bigfork to start the week, the Polson baseball team responded with authority, posting back-to-back run-rule wins over Ronan and Troy to improve to 9-4 on the season.
Big rig island opens at Mountain West Cenex
CHS Mountain West Co-op in Ronan opened a new facility that’s specifically for 18 wheelers two weeks ago. The new five-pump station is located just south of the current Cenex building.
Mission Valley Calendar
Upcoming events and meetings in the Mission Valley
Repertory Dance Theatre delivers world-class dance to Mission Valley
Mission Valley Live wraps up its performing arts season with a splash, courtesy of Repertory Dance Theatre of Utah. Members of the nation’s oldest and most successful repertory dance company will bring a dozen programs to area schools and other Mission Valley venues, before taking the stage at the Ronan Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. next Friday, May 16.
Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies
Stories harvested from the Flathead Courrier, May 11, 1989
The best use of political power
In 2008, during my last year in the Montana Legislature, a woman came to me with a problem. I made a phone call to a government agency and got it fixed, then I called her to tell her the good news. “Boy,” she said, “I wish I had that kind of power!” “You do!” said I, “I just used it for you.”’
Mission delivers podium performances at KLH Meet
St. Ignatius athletes turned in standout efforts at the KLH Memorial Track Meet on May 3, with multiple top-10 finishes and a gold medal performance highlighting a strong showing for the Bulldogs.
Polson resident commended for heroic rescue
Police Police Chief George Simpson formally recognized Polson resident Ryan Hunter with a Letter of Commendation for his heroic actions during a life-threatening accident on Sept. 28, 2024. The letter was presented during the Polson City Commission meeting Monday.
If you care, leave them there
With spring approaching comes warmer weather and new life to the Flathead Indian Reservation. As wildlife in our area begin their new families, people are more likely to encounter their young.
Richard "Dick" Wiese, 85
Richard “Dick” Wiese, 85, passed away March 17, 2025, surrounded by family. The funeral mass will be June 14 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Fargo, N.D. Dick will be laid to rest next to his wife, LaVonne, at Lakeview Cemetery in Polson and a celebration of life will be held at the Elks Lodge in Polson at a later date.
Mission man receives deferred sentence for threatening school
The imposition of sentencing was deferred for three years in District Court in Polson April 30 for a man accused of making threats to St. Ignatius Elementary School.
Ronan Seniors: Pork roast dinner coming soon
Our Sunday Roast Pork Dinner will be May 18th this month so mark your calenders.
Legals for May, 8 2025
Aspen Decker takes top honors in “19 Under 39” Exhibition
Arlee-based artist Aspen Decker received the first-place prize of $10,000 in the University of The Montana Museum of Art and Culture’s inaugural “19 Under 39: Celebrating Montana’s Emerging Artists.”
Wednesday, May 7
Legals for May, 7 2025
Spring Mack Days enters final weekend
The 100 fish limit was on the minds of many anglers on Friday, May 1 at Spring Mack Days on Flathead Lake.
Monday, May 5
Patricia Binger
Patricia Sue Binger of Big Arm was born in Long Beach, Calif., on Oct. 1, 1944, to Margaret and Hiram Hovick. On Feb. 27, 2025, while surrounded by her loved ones, cancer defeated Pat’s body, but her soul is with Our Savior. A Celebration of Life will be held 9:30-11 a.m. May 10, 2025, at the Boy & Girls Club in Polson, with a short program at 10 a.m. Please wear fun attire – she wants it to be a party!!
Dennis Joe (Denny) LaBonty, 76
Dennis (aka “Denny”) Joe LaBonty, Ph.D., passed away peacefully while surrounded by family and loved ones on May 3, 2025, at his home in Polson. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Polson with a reception to follow at 1 p.m. at the Polson Bay Golf Course Bunkers Bar & Grill clubhouse.
Thursday, May 1
Ronan and Charlo pick up wins at Big Sky Quad Track Meet
Athletes from Ronan and Charlo put together a strong showing Friday at the Big Sky Quad meet in Missoula, collecting multiple top-three finishes in both boys and girls events.
Dana pleads guilty to officer assault, indecent exposure
Codie James Dana, 34, entered a plea of guilty in District Court in Polson April 24 to felony charges of indecent exposure (third offense-felony), assault on a peace or judicial officer and two counts criminal endangerment.
Ronan Seniors: Center renting available for events
The Senior Center is available for renting for your events. Call us if you are having an event and need a location to have it!
Polson Seniors: Programs under scrutiny
The continued funding of these senior programs is under scrutiny for reduction and/or abolition. MSNBC has reported on the President Trump’s plan to dismantle the Meals on Wheels nutrition program for Seniors. Contact your state and federal elected officials.
Ronan Baseball Drops Three Straight
The Ronan Chiefs baseball team battled through a tough week on the road, dropping three games to Sentinel, Bigfork, and Columbia Falls to fall to 5-6 on the season.
St. Ignatius Seniors: Mother's Day bake sale coming soon
Beautiful day today! Enjoy the sunshine!
President ignoring Constitution and courts
America has a rich tradition of Welcoming the Stranger and profiting from the energy, new ideas and innovations of immigrants. Our official backtracking on this has more to do with populist politics than any possible benefit to our country.
Becky and Gary Dupuis take on CinemaCon
You might expect the big names like AMC, Regal, and Cinemark to dominate the week. While those companies were all in attendance the Mission Valley was well represented by our very own Becky and Gary Dupuis.
Spring concerts promise promise "music in our hearts"
Mission Valley Choral Society’s “Music in Our Hearts” Spring Concert Weekend, is set for 1 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at the St. Ignatius Mission and 4 p.m. Sunday, May 11, in Polson at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.
Softball fields conundrum headed for a solution
Ronan Pablo Youth Softball League and Mission Valley Thunder officers and parents crowded Ronan City Hall, and softball was the main topic at the Ronan City Council meeting on April 23. At issue were the Ronan Softball Fields and a draft agreement for management of the fields.
Hamilton shuts out MAC Baseball in St. Ignatius
The Mission-Arlee-Charlo (MAC) baseball team struggled to get its offense going against Hamilton on Tuesday afternoon, falling 8-0.
Northwest track athletes shine at Top Ten and ARM Invitational Meets
It was a busy week for Class A track teams at the Top Ten Invite in Missoula on April 22 and the Whitefish-hosted ARM Invitational on April 26.
Polson Tennis wraps busy week with strong showings against conference rivals
Polson High School’s tennis teams powered through a packed week of competition, racking up a string of victories in both boys and girls' action, highlighted by dominant performances over Ronan and close battles against Columbia Falls, Corvallis, and Hamilton.
Message to "Get-a-Job"
On Saturday, April 26, I participated in a ‘We the People Rally’ at the intersection of Highway 35 and 93 in Polson. There were about 45 of us with signs and drummers.
Hall released, then arrested again
Dalton Daniel Hall, 26, pled guilty to felony strangulation of a partner or family member during an earlier court appearance.
Ronan Softball splits four-game stretch, moves to 7-5 on season
The Ronan Maidens softball team came away with a pair of wins and a pair of close losses during a busy weekend of action, improving to 7-5 on the season. Ronan’s bats were alive throughout the four-game stretch, as the team combined for 41 runs and 49 hits.
Hazel Miller, 98
Hazel Belle Miller, age 98 of Polson, peacefully passed away April 27, 2025, while residing at St. Luke’s Extended Care in Ronan.
Packing, Camping
Mules Lucy, Sadie, and Suzy, and Charlie, a horse, were all tied to the fence at Hobbyhorse Place, north of Polson, waiting for something to do on Saturday morning. That “something” was about twenty youth coming to a mule packing, camping, back country event put on by the Mission Valley Back Country Horsemen.
Which kind of power will Americans choose?
Recent governmental events (kidnapping people off the streets, arresting dissenters, blocking free speech, withholding monies) brought back a few thoughts.
Cherries growers hopeful for big crop after total loss in 2024
The rows of cherry trees at Buena Vista Orchard in Bigfork last week were flaunting thousands of buds of the delicate white flowers that will eventually turn to delicious fruit this summer.
Cowboy Ball’s big tent brings big fun to Polson
Sunshine and blue skies welcomed guests to the 33rd Annual Cowboy Ball at the Polson Fairgrounds on April 25. Evening dress was boots, hats, and lots of turquoise.
Heeding the message of "The People's Pope"
We just lost a powerful leader, “The People’s Pope.” His power stemmed from his connection to all people; religious or not, black or white, poor or wealthy. Tenderness was his strength.
Ronan man accused of "one-man crime wave"
A Ronan man is accused of stealing an ATV that was parked in front of a Polson residence, and fleeing to Ronan.
Barbara Stark Klammer, 79
Barbara Stark Klammer was born to Charles "Max" and Charlotte Stark on Jan. 22, 1946 in St. Ignatius, Mont. She was the third of 10 Stark children.
Polson Softball stays hot during busy stretch
The Polson Lady Pirates continued their strong season over the past week, navigating a busy slate of games with a 5-2 record and improving to 11-2 overall. Along the way, senior slugger Olivia Jore etched her name deeper into the program's record books by tying for fourth on the PHS all-time home run list.
Firefighter Robyn Bishop is a lifetime learner
In the popular book “Fahrenheit 451” fire and books are sort of enemies to each other; however, it’s these two elements that make up a major part of the life of Polson High teacher and volunteer firefighter Robyn Bishop.
Mission Valley Calendar
Upcoming events and meetings in the Mission Valley
Legals for May, 1 2025
MAC Softball pulls past Eureka, Troy in big week
The Mission-Arlee-Charlo (MAC) softball team continued its impressive season with a dominant three-game stretch last week, picking up two wins over Eureka and holding off Troy in a high-scoring contest. The victories improved MAC’s record to 11-2 overall.
