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!”

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 — 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 26 is “What is your DNA?”

POLSON — The free “Night at the Museum,” event will take place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 26, at the Miracle of America Museum, 36094 Memory Lane. By request, we will be doing an outside walking tour of the outside museum pioneer village with explanations of the history of some of the buildings and artifacts. April programs will cover the east yard. If you want more information, call 406-883-6804 or 406-270-7895.

BIG ARM — The Big Arm Association will host a potluck at the historic Big Arm School on Friday, April 27, at 6 p.m. Please bring your favorite dish to share with neighbors and friends. Dinner will be from 6-7 p.m. Our presenter will be Mona Rey - Master Gardner. She will offer advice to help us get our gardens ready for the Montana growing season. Come and join us for a delicious dinner and an informative presentation. Hope to see you there. Call 406-849-5133 with your questions.

POLSON — You are invited to hear a speaker at the Pachyderm meeting from noon – 1 p.m. on Friday, April 27, at the Rural Fire Station off Regatta Road. Amy Vaughan, the director of operations for the Boy and Girls Club, will share updates on what the organization is doing to build capacity and impact through various projects in Lake county. The organization plans a new facility in Polson across from the Middle School, which will include a Community Center.

POLSON — Polson High School students will perform the play, “Reality Stars: Greek Gods Edition” by Jonathon Yukich. At 7 p.m. on April 27 and 28 at the Polson High School Auditorium. The cost is $5 for students and $7 for adults. The Spanish Club will host a spaghetti dinner from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in the PHS cafeteria for $5 each or $20 for a family.

BIGFORK — Montana State Parks (stateparks. mt.gov) invites you to explore the world of birds during a ranger-led hike “Birds of a Feather” at Flathead Lake State Park – Wayfarers Unit, 8600 Mt. Hwy 35, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 28, and at 6 p.m. on Thursday, May 3. Meet at the Flathead Lake Ranger Station. Join a ranger on a short 1.5-mile hike to look for birds around the park and learn about some common and interesting species. A bird walk is a great way to get outside, introduce yourself and your family to birding, or refine your skills. A water bottle, sturdy shoes, and weather appropriate clothing are suggested. Binoculars and field guides will be provided. Meet at the Flathead Lake Ranger Station in the Harry Horn Day Use Area. The cost is $4 per person or $10 per family. For more information go to: http://stateparks.mt.gov/ wayfarers.

POLSON — Mission Valley Spring Trades Show and Business Expo takes place on April 28 at Polson High School. Get your picture taken with a real live Super Hero. Wear a Super Hero costume, t-shirt or hat and win special prizes. Follow us on Facebook to see which super heroes will be at the show. Businesses are invited to participate in this exciting, effective and unique marketing opportunity. The festive environment and tradition of the Trades Fair makes it convenient and fun for potential customers to experience your product or service. We are proud to have a history of a tremendous variety of exhibitors, with virtually all aspects of commerce represented. Space is limited. Reserve your booth today. Our fax number is 406-883-4441. Call 406-883-9200, 406-675-9200 or 1-800-750-5377 for information.

ARLEE — The Arlee Community Development Corporation will hold their monthly meeting in the Arlee High School library from 6-9 p.m. the last Monday of every month, (April 30). Please join us.

POLSON — Moving for Better Balance, an evidence-based, adapted Tai Chi class, will be offered by the Area VI Agency on Aging on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10-11 a.m. for 12 weeks, May 1-July 19. Classes will be held at the Polson Senior Center. The fee is $35 for senior center members, $50 for non-members (they get a membership included), but everything is on a slidingscale. Call 406-883-7284 for information or to sign up.

RONAN — The Mission Mountain Golf Course Ladies League will hold an organizational meeting for the 2018 season at the golf course at 6 p.m. on May 1. There will be a light snack served and the bar will be open as well. Also, we are planning to start play on May 8 with a fun night, if weather permits. There are lots of exciting changes at the course this year and all former and current teams are invited to attend the meeting. Ladies who are interested in forming or joining a team or perhaps subbing are encouraged to attend. Call 406-676-0802 or email the league at: mmgcladies@gmail.com, for more information.

RONAN — Mission Valley Back Country Horsemen will hold their next monthly meeting on May 1, at 7:30 p.m. at the VFW on Round Butte Rd. in Ronan. Our program will include a video on mule packing basics presented by Mack and Connie Long of Bob Marshall Wilderness Outfitters in Charlo. A question/answer period will follow after the video. The public is invited to attend. Hope to see you there.

POLSON — The exhibit, “It’s All About The Timing” will be shown at the Sandpiper Gallery, 306 Main Street, from April 9-May 11. This exhibit features member artists Nathan Eyre (wood); Patrick Berry (acrylic) ; Barb Shrider (watercolor) ; Willie DeJana (mixed media); and guest artists Kristy Humble (found art); Kody Bundy (scratchboard).

RONAN — The Mission Mountain Quilt Guild will be having their regular monthly meeting at the Terrace Lake Community Church. This month’s meeting is jam packed and will be busy, busy, busy. We will start at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 1, with election of officers followed by presenting your March fabric challenge and show and tell. May is a big month for the Guild, for those of you who are new or are not members yet. May is Brown Bag Auction month, which means you bring anything sewing related in a brown bag. The bag will be auctioned off to raise money. The item can be anything having to do with sewing but have not had time for or don’t need or just don’t want. If it will fit in the bag, we will bid on it. It’s that simple, so bring what you have and let’s have an auction. Make sure to bring your raffle Fat Quarters.