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.

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.

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.

Who will speak out for Mahmoud?

I raise my voice for Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Kahlil. Trump is silencing Mahmoud through politically-targeted illegal deportation. Trump doesn’t like Mahmoud’s opinions and activism on Gaza.

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.

Mack Days anglers haul in more than 20,000 lake trout

The third week of Spring Mack Days ended with a total of 20,211 lake trout entries. Weekend totals were 1,939 on Friday, 1,806 on Saturday, and 1,821 on Sunday.

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.

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.

Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies

Stories unearthed from the pages of the Flathead Courier, March 14, 1935

Lake County athletes shine at Frenchtown Invite

The Polson and Ronan track and field teams made a strong statement at the highly competitive Frenchtown Invitational on Saturday, March 29, racking up top finishes, personal records, and championship-worthy performances.

Legals for March, 13 2025

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.

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.

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.

Time Capsule: From the archives of local weeklies

Stories gleaned from the Lake County Leader, March 20, 1997

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.

Woman charged with stealing from family trust

A Ronan woman is accused of stealing from a family trust account. Lindsey Montgomery Polchies, 37, entered a plea of not guilty in District Court in Polson March 26 to felony theft.

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.

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.

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.