Thursday, April 12
‘Food for Fines’ food drive begins at library
POLSON – The North Lake County Public Library is holding a food drive April 8-14. All contributions will be donated to the Polson Loaves and Fish Food Pantry. Patrons with overdue items or fines on their cards are encouraged to bring sealed, commercially prepared, nonperishable food items to the circulation desk. Fines will be reduced by $1 for each item donated. Please note that forgiveness of fines does not include lost or damaged items. Patrons without fines are also encouraged to join in this event to help replenish the food pantry.
Join the Mussel Walk, save our waters
SALISH POINT — The Flathead Lake CSKT Mussel Walk will host events about invasive mussels on Thursday, April 12, from 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Salish Point. There will be student activities on invasive mussel identification and life history, how to clean, drain, and dry water vehicles, and how to inspect boats for mussels. The day will end with a Mussel Walk along the shoreline. Check out the event on Facebook.
KWH fourth graders to perform
RONAN — K. William Harvey’s fourth grade will put on a spring concert on April 12 at 1:30 p.m. in the Performing Art Center at the Ronan Middle School.
Nome birding adventure topic of April Audubon meeting
POLSON – “Going Nome: Familiar Birds in Unfamiliar Places” by Pat Jamieson will be Mission Mountain Audubon’s evening program at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 12 in the Polson Library Meeting Room. Everyone is welcome.
St. Ignatius High Schools host annual Career Day event
ST. IGNATIUS — St. Ignatius High School will host their annual career day on Thursday, April 12, from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. with keynote speaker Angela McLean, Director of American Indian Minority Achievement and K-12 partnerships.
Story time held at library
POLSON – Please join us at the North Lake County Public Library every Thursday at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. for a one-hour program for children ages 3-5, their siblings and their caregivers. The program for April 12 is “Going to the Birds!”
Friday, April 13
Free dinner held at Polson Presbyterian Church
POLSON – The April Friendship Table Dinner will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Polson Presbyterian Church across from the Linderman School. Come join us. This dinner is free and open to all.
Polson superintendent to address Pachyderms
POLSON – Members of the public are invited by Lake County Pachyderms to hear speaker Rex Weltz, Superintendent of Polson School District, address school safety from noon to 1 p.m. on Friday, April 13 at the Polson Rural Fire Department off of Regatta Road. Montana law allows school boards to arm staff as part of an approved program to improve response time for school safety. Mr. Weltz will discuss this seemingly insurmountable local issue covering ideas and factors involved in the public policy about protecting students. For more information, call Norm Johnson at 249-5303.
Reception for new exhibit at Sandpiper Gallery held
POLSON — A reception for the new exhibit, “It’s All About The Timing” will take place at the Sandpiper Gallery, 306 Main Street, from 5-7 p.m. on Friday, April 13.
Saturday, April 14
Enjoy 1950s dinner, aid disaster fund
POLSON — Polson United Methodist Church, 301 Sixteenth Ave. E, will host a Dinner and Bingo Party on April 14. Dinner will be served from 6-7 p.m. This will be an old-fashioned 1950s dinner with all the trimmings, including milk shakes and cokes. The cost is $12 per person and no charge for children 5-years and under. There will be door prizes, entertainment, a 50/50 raffle and Bingo. Come for an evening of good food, fellowship and fun. All profit will be used for the East Slope winter storm disaster fund. For tickets call 406-883-0099.
Final chance to reduce library fines
POLSON — The final day of the North Lake County Public Library food drive is April 14. All contributions will be donated to the Polson Loaves and Fish Food Pantry. Patrons with overdue items or fines on their cards are encouraged to bring sealed, commercially prepared, nonperishable food items with current expiration dates to the circulation desk. Fines will be reduced by one dollar for each item donated. Please note that forgiveness of fines does not include lost or damaged items. Patrons without fines are also encouraged to join in this event to help replenish the Food Pantry.
Flathead Lake Community Mussel Walk planned
BIGFORK – Montana State Parks will co-host “Flathead Lake Community Mussel Walk” at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 14, at Flathead Lake State Park – Wayfarers Unit. Join the Flathead Lakers, the Flathead Lake Biological Station, and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to help spread the message of aquatic invasive species, and not the mussel. Learn how to identify invasive mussels, report something suspicious, and effectively clean, drain, and dry your boat. Then, join us for a shoreline mussel walk or go to your favorite Flathead Lake spot to look for mussels. The Wayfarers Unit of Flathead Lake State Park is at 8600 Montana Hwy. 35, Bigfork. Meet at the Birch Grove Picnic Shelter by the water.
Sunday, April 15
SKQ overlook to reopen
POLSON – Gates to the SKQ overlook are scheduled to officially open on April 15. A schedule has been established and moving forward, the overlook gate will open on April 15 and close on Oct. 15 annually. Please adhere to the posted gate hours as you enter the premises. For more information please contact the main office at 406-883-1113 or email us at information@ energykeepersinc.com.
Tuesday, April 17
Kindergarten Round Up held for Ronan schools
RONAN/PABLO — The Ronan and Pablo School District No. 30 annual Kindergarten Round Up pre-registration will be held at the Ronan Middle School on Tuesday, April 17, from 8:30 a.m.– 5:30 p.m. This registration will be for the upcoming 2018/2019 school year. To be eligible for kindergarten, a student must be 5 years old on or before Sept. 10, 2018. Parents are asked to bring the birth certificate, immunization records and certificate of Indian Blood for their child's registration. Please watch the paper for more information.
Library celebrates National Poetry Month
POLSON — April is National Poetry Month which is the largest literary celebration in the world. North Lake County Public Library is celebrating with “Black-Out Poetry.” Millions of readers, students, teachers, librarians, and, of course, poets, mark poetry’s important place in our lives and culture. Drop in anytime in April for an experience creating “Black-Out Poetry!”
Signup for AARP Smart Driver Course
POLSON — AARP’s Smart Driver Course will be taught at the Polson Area Senior Center from 8:30- 11 a.m. and 1-3 p.m. on Tuesday, April 17. Call 406-883-4735 for a reservation
Wednesday, April 18
Examine Montana’s anti-Muslim movement
POLSON — Flathead Reservation Human Rights Coalition and Montana Human Rights Network present Travis McAdam: “Separating Fact from Fiction: Examining Montana’s Anti-Muslim Movement.” The public is invited at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18, at the Polson Library Conference Room. Written questions only; contact 406-745-4259 for further information.
Join the Polson Community Dance
POLSON — Thank you to the new couples who attended our last Wednesday dance. We hope you enjoyed it and will come back. Our next dance is on Wednesday, April 18, from 7-10 p.m. at the Elks on Main Street. Everyone is welcome. Dance to the Waltz, Two Step, Swing, Cha-Cha, etc., with Ken’s Country Combo Band. Wear casual attire. The price is $5 per person. Snacks are provided at break and drinks are available at the bar. Again, this would be a great time to get out and meet new friends, socialize with old ones and dance or listen to a good mix of Classic Country and a little '50s and '60s rock. For those who don’t know, we have a birthday celebration for anyone who has a birthday during the month, on the third Wednesday. All who attend and would like to be included in the celebration please let Betty Carter or Ellen Achenbaugh know and we will see that your name is on the cake for the right month. (No day or year is required.) Hope to see you there.
Participate in free Quickbooks II workshop
RONAN —Keep your company’s financial data complete by learning Quickbooks Pro on Wednesday, April 18, at Lake County Community Development Corporation, 407 Main St. SW. You’ll learn: transaction entries; working with balance sheets; understanding other current liabilities; fixed assets and depreciation; setting up long-term liabilities; equity and petty cash accounts. We’ll also discuss inventory tracking, budgeting and cash flow, custom fields, and integrating with MS Office. This level II class is for Quick- Books users who are already familiar with the basics and want to improve their skills. Join us for this free class to learn the Quickbooks skills you need for your business to succeed.
Thursday, April 19
Flathead Historical Museum discussed at Kiwanis meeting
POLSON — Polson Kiwanis Club’s speaker on Thursday, April 19, will be Karen Dunwell, talking about Polson Flathead Historical Museum in Polson. Karen’s grandparents, Olive and Faye McAlear were instrumental in the beginning of the Museum. She will talk about the history and exhibits, newest artifacts and the recent filming by the Travel Channel. A planned event for 2019 involves Flathead Lake monster sightings and a mystery monster fishing tournament. The public is welcome at noon on April 19, downstairs at Best Western KwaTaqNuk Resort, 49708 Highway 93.
SPLASH held at MOAM
POLSON — The Miracle of American Museum, 36094 Memory Lane, is the site of SPLASH on April 19 from 5-7 p.m. The food will be provided by America's Best Value Port Polson Inn.
Story time held at library
POLSON – Please join us at the North Lake County Public Library every Thursday at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. for a one-hour program for children ages 3-5, their siblings and their caregivers. The program for April 19 is “Celebrating Astronomy Day.”
Valley View School holds Kindergarten Round Up
VALLEY VIEW — Valley View School will hold a Kindergarten Round Up and Child Find from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on Thursday, April 19, at the school. Later times may be arranged by appointment. The child must be 5 years old by Sept. 10, 2018, to enroll in school. This screening is open to all children ages 3-5 years old. Parents must bring Immunization records and the original birth certificate. Call 406-883-2208 to schedule a time.
Friday, April 20
Hear about alcohol, corsets, the vote
POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library hosts Montana Conversation, “Alcohol, Corsets, and the Vote: A Conversation with Mary Long Alderson,” with Anne Foster on Friday, April 20, at 2 p.m. This program is free and open to the public. Funding for the Montana Conversations program is provided by Humanities Montana through grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities, Montana’s Cultural Trust and private donations.
Learn about ‘Foster Love’
RONAN — On April 20, at 7 p.m. at Terrace Lake Church hear personal stories from individuals about foster care and adoption. We will share the many ways you can be involved or support those who are involved. Dessert will be provided afterward.
Listen to unique country music
POLSON – Mission Valley Live, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing quality live music to the valley, brings “Twin Kennedy,” to Polson on April 20. “Twin Kennedy” will perform their unique country music sound created from a fusion of folk, jazz and classical music at 7 p.m. at the Polson High School auditorium. Tickets are $13 when purchased in advance purchase and $15 at the door. College students are $5 with college ID. Youth 18 years and younger are admitted free.
Support fairgrounds, dance at Cowboy Ball
POLSON — The 28th annual “Cowboy Ball,” a fundraising banquet and auction, will take place on Friday, April 20, under the big tent at the Polson Fairgrounds. No-host cocktails and a silent auction begin at 5:30 p.m.; dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the live auction starts at 7:30 p.m. Dancing will follow the auction with Sho-Down providing the entertainment. For tickets and information, call 406-883-1100. Tickets may be purchased at Wild Horse Framing, Muley Blues (Ronan), Crow’s Nest Gallery, or PFI Board Members for $50 each. Proceeds benefit Polson Fairgrounds improvement.
Saturday, April 21
Benefit planned for Snyder
RONAN — A benefit to help with Kim Snyder’s medical bills will take place at the Ronan Community Center, 300 3rd Ave. NW, on Saturday, April 21, from noon-5 p.m. Support one of our veterans. There will be chili burgers for $8 per person and children 6 and under are free. There will also be a bake sale, a used book sale, a silent auction (gently used, homemade, store bought goods), and a 50/50 drawing. All donations are accepted. Your support is greatly appreciated. For pickup of donations or to purchase 50/50 tickets, text or call 406-269- 0007, 406-207-6164, 406-883-2910 or 406-260-6164.
Reception for new exhibit at Hangin’ Art Gallery
ARLEE — An opening reception will be held on Saturday, April 21, from noon -2 p.m. at Hangin’ Art Gallery & Café. Come rest up after the Buttercup Run and enjoy the show and meet the artists. On exhibit will be the paintings, photography, silkwork, jewlery and sculpture by members of Killdeer Artisans’ Guild, including a great selection of smaller, more affordable pieces suitable for gift giving. Afterwards, we’ll draw the winning ticket of the raffle of the original oil painting by Gail Trenfield. There is still time to buy a $2 raffle ticket. Come meet the artists, and explore this surprising art destination located on Highway 93 N. Refreshments will be provided.
Support CASA, help abused, neglected children
POLSON — CASA of Lake & Sanders Counties would appreciate your donations and support. We ask this just once a year - at our annual CASA Golf Scramble held in Polson scheduled for April 21. You can advertise your business, register a 4-person golf team, and/or purchase raffle tickets to win a free golf membership at Polson Bay Golf Course. Please feel free to contact us at 406-883-0158, to be a part of this important cause. This is an opportunity like none other to make a real difference in the future of the children who have been abused and neglected.
Support seniors at Dinner, Auction
POLSON — The Lake County Council on Aging is hosting their first annual Senior’s Benefit Dinner and Silent Auction. The fundraiser will support the physical, mental, and financial health of elders in Lake County. Dinner selections will include prime rib, shrimp scampi, and lemon chicken. Awards will be given to outstanding seniors in our community at this event. Join us at the Red Lion Inn at 5 p.m. on April 21. For tickets please call 406-676-2367.
Monday, April 23
Dixon Schools hold Round Up
DIXON — Dixon School’s Pre-K and Kindergarten Round Up will take place on Monday, April 23, from 5-6:30 p.m. Join us for a fun evening of pizza and cookies Meet the teachers, see the classrooms, get help filling out registration forms and take home an at-home learning kit.
Therapist discusses responses to childhood trauma
PABLO — CSKT’s Project Launch, Tribal Health and the Best Beginnings Children’s Partnership serving the Flathead Reservation and Lake County are pleased to host two public presentations by the renowned therapist Stacy G. York, LCSW. Stacy’s work centers around responding to traumatized children. Her message is for parents, caregivers, teachers and anyone who works with children who have experienced trauma in their lives. On Monday, April 23, from 6-8 p.m. at the Salish Kootenai College Johnny Arlee and Vic Charlo Theater, she will offer a free, open to the public presentation entitled: Real-life, Applicable Strategies for Supporting the Youth in Your Life. A light meal will be served at 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, April 24
Computer classes held at library
POLSON — North Lake County Public Library presents free twice-monthly computer classes that can provide you with computer and technology basics. On April 24, at 2 p.m. “Internet Basics No. 2” will be taught. All classes will be held in the Library Community Room. Reserve your spot by contacting Heather or the Circulation Desk at 406-883-8225.
Learn about Essiac tea
POLSON — Mrs. Wonderful’s, 103B Third Ave. E, will hold a free tea-tasting with Wonderful cookies to follow on Tuesday, April 24, from 4-6 p.m. Come learn about Essiac tea and its 100 plus-year history of helping people thrive. We are seeking volunteers for an informal anecdotal study.
Learn tools for suicide prevention
ST. IGNATIUS — On Tuesday, April 24, from 1-4 p.m., Stacy G. York, LCSW will continue her discussion on response to childhood trauma with “Trauma- Informed Tools for Suicide Prevention” at the St. Ignatius Tribal Fitness Center. This talk is also free and open to the public. For more information on the Tuesday workshop call Brandon Burke at 745-3525, ext. 5071. Stacy is a trauma specialist who has spent the past 16 years working with children and families and promoting the importance of mental health.
Wednesday, April 25
Candidates' forum at PHS
The Polson Education Association (PEA) would like to invite the public to a school board candidate’s forum on Wednesday, April 25th at 7 p.m. in the Polson High School Library. There are four school board candidates running for three positions with Polson School District #23. Candidates will have a chance to introduce themselves and answer questions submitted by PEA members. Please join us in order for you to make an informed decision before you vote on May 8th.
Democrats hold ‘Meet and Greet’
ARLEE — Lake County Democrats will hold a candidate “Meet and Greet” in Arlee from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25, at the Hangin’ Art Gallery in Arlee. Candidates attending will be: Caroline McDonald for Lake County Commissioner; Susan Evans for HD 12; Eldena Bear Don’t Walk and Steve York for HD 93, (which will be a primary runoff in the June 5 primary); Marvin Weatherwax Jr. for HD 15; Jennifer Allen for SD 5; Tyrel Suzor-Hoy for Public Service Commission; and a representative for Senator Jon Tester. Your financial support for these hard working, committed candidates would be very much appreciated.
Elks begin ‘Open Mic/ Jam’ events for charities
POLSON — The Elks is having an “Open Mic/ Jam” for charity to benefit the Helping Hands group on Wednesday, April 25, at 7:30 p.m. The jam is open to the public. Call Steve McCoy at 406-253-8666 for more information. The Elks plan to have an “Open Mic/Jam” every third Wednesday of the month to benefit a different non-profit each time. Please come out and play/support your local musicians and help different charities.
Free Zen Meditation Class offered
POLSON — A Zen Meditation Class is being offered at the YogaHeart Studio, 314 Main Street, on Wednesday, April 25, at 6 p.m. The classes will be presented by Zen Priest Zenku, Jerry Smyers. There is no charge for the class. Everyone is welcome. For more details call 847-721-0665.
Visiting author shares passion for history
NINEPIPE – Author Rick Steber is on a quest to share his passion about storytelling during his visit to the Mission Valley April 24-26. Steber has authored over 40 books, won numerous literary awards, and has been the featured speaker at national and international conferences. One of his most recent books, “Red White Black: A True Story of Race and Rodeo” relates the story of Jackson Sundown, and will be the focus of his public presentation at the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25. Space is limited for this presentation. The ticket price of $20 per person also buys a raffle ticket; the three raffle items include a commemorative Pendleton blanket honoring Jackson Sundown, a gift package of Rick Steber books, and a vacation package valued at over $400. Call the museum at 644-3435 to make your reservation.