With the breathtaking Flathead Lake and Mission Mountains, this is certainly a piece of paradise that’s loved by a lot of people. Whether this is your first time here, or if you live here year-round, I hope you’re able to get outside and enjoy another beautiful summer. Soak up some sun, go for a hike,
catch a fish, or do whatever it is that makes an enjoyable Montana summer for you.
Just remember to take care of this beautiful land as it takes care of us. Leave only footprints and take only memories. Put your campfires dead out and do your part to make sure no invasive
species enter our pristine waters by stopping at those watercraft inspection sites you see along the road. Let’s all do our part to keep this place wonderful for everyone to enjoy in the years to come.
Go have an adventure.
- Taylor Davison, EditorMontana Summer is a yearly publication of the Valley Journal newspaper (PE 23190) published weekly by Valley Journal LLC, periodicals postage paid at Ronan, MT.
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2023
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Staff:
Publisher / sales Summer Goddard
Adv. manager / owner ..... Boone Goddard
Editor Taylor Davison
our mission is to develop and implement programs and strategies designed to prevent the introduction of aquatic invasive species into waters of the Flathead Reservation, and to help contain, control and where possible, eradicate aquatic invasive species already present on the Reservation.
CLEAN. DRAIN. DRY.
Tiny, razor-sharp shells would coat and clog every hard surface of the lake - rocks, boats, docks & dams.
Invasive Mussels
Would Ravage the Lake Environment
Zebra and quagga mussels devastate native species by stripping the food web of plankton, and that has a cascading effect throughout the ecosystem. Lack of food causes populations of native trout, whitefish and native mussel species to plummet. Invasive mussels typically cause harmful algal blooms and permanently alter water quality in a way that impacts aquatic life and even human health.
Clean off all plants, animals, and mud from your watercraft (canoe, kayak, boat) and equipment (boots, waders, fishing gear). Use a high pressure washer or available power washing stations. If you use your own high pressure washer or a car wash, make sure the water goes into a contained-water holding area. Rinse with very hot water (140 °F).
Drain onto land all water from bait buckets, live wells, pumps, motor, bilges, and remove drain plugs. Eliminate all water BEFORE LEAVING an area where you have had your boat and trailer.
Dry all items completely before launching the watercraft into another body of water. Allow at least five days for you boat, trailer, and equipment to completely dry before launching into other waters.
Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes
Natural Resources Department
www.csktnomussels.org
email: katie.squeque@cskt.org
(406) 675-2700 ext. 7280
ARLEE — As the idea of food sovereignty comes more and more into the public eye, community members in Arlee are coming together to start to make the concept a reality. The first step? The Arlee Victory Garden.
Hosted by the Arlee Community Development Corporation (CDC) with projects sponsored by local nonprofit Indian Commerce Campsite, CSKT Food Sovereignty, SKC Agricultural Extension, and Fred Billings’ Garden for Life program, the garden will be part of the effort to provide fresh, locally grown vegetables to communities within the Flathead Reservation.
Not a traditional community garden, the Arlee Victory Garden will be developed through a series of classes conducted throughout the summer led by Fred Billings. Part of the intent, Food Sovereignty Chair Shelly Fyant explained, is to not only bring people in to work on the garden, but to bring people in to learn how to garden as well. “I’m a pretty seasoned gardener, and I learned so much from Fred last year,” Fyant commented. “He just has this really efficient way of gardening.”
A landscape architect by trade, Billings and an intern of his laid out a total of 55 rows for the garden from 50-80 feet long. Participants of all ages will each be planting at least one row before learning to maintain their budding crops for the next several weeks both inside a classroom and out in the field, tackling everything from soil preparation, cultivation and weed control, insect and disease control, to harvesting and handling.
The garden will be filled with a variety of crops selected from a polling of individuals who participate in the Arlee food pantry and will include a basic variety of things like carrots and tomatoes to more outlandish crops like sweet corn and watermelon. “We’re going to try it,” Fyant laughed. “Arlee doesn’t have a very long growing season, so corn is kind of hard to do in my experience, but we’re going to try it and some varieties of melons and just see.”
The community has been involved in the creation of the garden from the very beginning, from providing input to putting in physical contributions. More than 30 volunteers showed up to the site east of the Arlee Esyapqeyni (Celebration) grounds on Earth Day to contribute to the garden cleanup and preparation. Different organizations and Tribal departments contributed materials and fencing to get the garden functioning, while the Salish Kootenai College greenhouse contributed starter plants as well. The garden’s received additional funding from the No Kid Hungry Share Our Strength program, Gianforte Family Foundation, and the OP & WE Edwards Foundation.
The greenhouse for the Arlee youth group the Eagles will be contributing starters in the future as well.
“We kind of developed a school-community partnership,” Fyant explained. “We wrote a grant to get their greenhouse up and running … We’re excited to have them involved.” The Arlee CDC also hired an intern from the Eagles, Arlee High School junior Edwin Koetter, to help with the garden throughout the summer.
Fyant and garden co-facilitator Arlee Food Pantry Manager Marie Kloberdanz aim to maintain the garden classes as a yearly endeavor, training with Billings during this years’ classes to teach the curriculum themselves next year. Every individual that participates will be able to harvest some of everything that’s grown, and the pantry staff will harvest for clients of the food pantry as well.
Fyant explained that so much is produced in these gardens that there will be more than enough to go around. “Last year, I’m not even kidding, I was stopping at my neighbors’ houses to give away lettuce because there was just so much,” Fyant said. “There’ll be a lot of people eating some fresh veggies this summer.”
Fyant has been involved in food sovereignty education since 2016 when she learned about the concept in a conference with the Shakopee Nation in Minnesota. “I really started realizing that if the trucks ever shut down there’s like two days’ worth of food on the shelves,” Fyant explained. “Then I learned about the whole nutritional aspect of it, that it uses up value every day after its harvested, and I really started thinking about how our Tribe had a very sustainable lifestyle just three generations ago in my family. And I thought people are really getting away from that and
depending on the Walmarts or the Wincos or whatever of the world. Then when the pandemic hit, people started hording and panic buying and that kind of thing, I think people thought more about gardening.”
In recent years, a number of other community gardens have cropped up throughout the area, including at the Elmo Community Center, Ronan FFA High School, Kicking Horse Job Corps, SKC Agricultural Extension, CSKT Forestry Greenhouses, St. Ignatius Food Distribution, and Hot Springs Old Forestry. For its part, the Arlee CDC is also looking at offering food beyond what’s fresh, delving into canning, dehydrating, and other means of food preservation as well.
Fyant has noticed that in the Jocko Valley, there exists bison, beef, pigs, chicken, eggs, milk, honey, and fruits and veggies from a variety of Montana growers. “We have it all, it’s just kind of a matter of connecting the dots and letting people know who the producers are. The Arlee CDC in that regard is developing food hubs. Marie Hirsch, the executive director, is part of a statewide group that’s looking at developing food hubs,” Fyant said. “We’re looking at developing a food distribution system, maybe spread the wealth. It sounds like Arlee is going to be able to use what they produce, but say Mission has more than their community needs, we can spread the wealth around to communities that don’t have it … There’s a lot of work and a lot of work to be done, but we’re all really passionate about it, and I for one feel like there’s a lot that we can do and continue to do.”
To learn more about local food sovereignty efforts, visit: arleecdc.org or call 406-546-5633.
By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal
Flathead Lake, the 79th largest freshwater lake in the world, has some of the clearest, cleanest waters in the world. Flathead Lake also surrounds 14 pristine islands that together make up about 5.5 square miles of land. Scattered throughout the lake, from above the islands look like emerald jewels on a sea of deep blue and aqua water.
Wild Horse Island, the largest island with about 2,164 acres, has an interesting history. For hundreds of years, the island kept the horses belonging to the Kootenai Tribe, safe from other tribes that would steal them. Wild Horse Island has been part of the Flathead Indian Reservation since its creation in 1872. When the reservation was opened to homesteaders in 1904, the island was divided into individual plots. Between 1910 and 1915 homesteaders removed most of the old-growth trees and introduced non-native grasses. Many unsuccessful attempts at using the land for agriculture were made.
In 1977, Wild Horse Island became a state park with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks overseeing the wildlife that reside there. Home to bighorn sheep (about 100), five wild horses, mule deer, waterfowl, bald eagles, songbirds and falcons, and even the occasional bear, the island is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Located near Big Arm on the western side of Flathead Lake, Wild Horse Island State Park is open to fishing, swimming, trail hiking and wildlife viewing. Toilet facilities are available. The highest point on the island is 853 feet above the shoreline. The only access to the park is by boat. Fires of any kind and camping are prohibited. Visitors are asked to respect the private properties found on the perimeter of the island and to keep off of private docks.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks owns and manages several other islands on Flathead Lake including Cedar, Bird and O’Neil. These islands are managed as wildlife habitat and protection areas.
Bird Island, with nearly 30 pristine forested acres, is located just north of Finley Point. The island was purchased from the Ainsworth family in 1953. Just as its name implies, the island provides a nesting habitat for birds and geese. During the summer of 2020, a fire burned some of the acreage. Unfortunate as it seemed at the time, FWP expects that burning down some of the canopy on the island will improve the nesting environment in the long run. Bird island is part of a cluster of small islands that make up the Flathead Lake Bird Preserve, which was established by the Montana Legislature in 1947.
Shelter Island, a 24-acre private island on the western portion of Flathead Lake, houses the largest private home in Montana. With 32,000 square feet of buildings and 6,000 feet of lake frontage, the home rises from solid granite footing like something from a fairytale. With 45-foot ceilings, a fireplace large enough to fit 15 grown men in it, an indoor gun range and a copper observatory. The anonymous owner will not lack for anything. The exact sale price of the property isn’t known but the last asking price was listed as $13.95 million.
Stories from Shelter Island’s history involve a buffalo swimming to the island for safety from indigenous hunters; a drowning fisherman swimming to and then living on the island early in the 1900s; and the island housing a sweat lodge.
Shelter Island isn’t the only millionaire estate on the Flathead Lake however. Cromwell Island is home to a 22,000 square
Flathead Lake, the 79th largest freshwater lake in the world, has some of the clearest, cleanest waters in the world. Flathead Lake also surrounds 14 pristine islands that together make up about 5.5 square miles of land. Scattered throughout the lake, from above the islands look like emerald jewels on a sea of deep blue and aqua water.
Wild Horse Island, the largest island with about 2,164 acres, has an interesting history. For hundreds of years, the island kept the horses belonging to the Kootenai Tribe, safe from other tribes that would steal them. Wild Horse Island has been part of the Flathead Indian Reservation since its creation in 1872. When the reservation was opened to homesteaders in 1904, the island was divided into individual plots. Between 1910 and 1915 homesteaders removed most of the old-growth trees and introduced non-native grasses. Many unsuccessful attempts at using the land for agriculture were made.
In 1977, Wild Horse Island became a state park with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks overseeing the wildlife that reside there. Home to bighorn sheep (about 100), five wild horses, mule deer, waterfowl, bald eagles, songbirds and falcons, and even the occasional bear, the island is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Located near Big Arm on the western side of Flathead Lake, Wild Horse Island State Park is open to fishing, swimming, trail hiking and wildlife viewing. Toilet facilities are available. The highest point on the island is 853 feet above the shoreline. The only access to the park is by boat. Fires of any kind and camping are prohibited. Visitors are asked to respect the private properties found on the perimeter of the island and to keep off of private docks.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks owns and manages several other islands on Flathead Lake including Cedar, Bird and O’Neil. These islands are managed as wildlife habitat and protection areas.
Bird Island, with nearly 30 pristine forested acres, is located just north of Finley Point. The island was purchased from the Ainsworth family in 1953. Just as its name implies, the island provides a nesting habitat for birds and geese. During the summer of 2020, a fire burned some of the acreage. Unfortunate as it seemed at the time, FWP expects that burning down some of the canopy on the island will improve the nesting environment in the long run. Bird island is part of a cluster of small islands that make up the Flathead Lake Bird Preserve, which was established by the Montana Legislature in 1947.
Shelter Island, a 24-acre private island on the western portion of Flathead Lake, houses the largest private home in Montana. With 32,000 square feet of buildings and 6,000 feet of lake frontage, the home rises from solid granite footing like something from a fairytale. With 45-foot ceilings, a fireplace large enough to fit 15 grown men in it, an indoor gun range and a copper observatory. The anonymous owner will not lack for anything. The exact sale price of the property isn’t known but the last asking price was listed as $13.95 million.
Stories from Shelter Island’s history involve a buffalo swimming to the island for safety from indigenous hunters; a drowning fisherman swimming to and then living on the island early in the 1900s; and the island housing a sweat lodge.
Shelter Island isn’t the only millionaire estate on the Flathead Lake however. Cromwell Island is home to a 22,000 square
Friday & Saturday, June 23 & 24
Youth events begin at 6:00 p.m. Rodeo 7:00 p.m. both nights! Food
foot fortress-looking home built in the 1990s by the reclusive millionaire Robert M. Lee who is now deceased. Located southeast of Dayton, Cromwell Island is the second largest island on the lake with 342 acres.
Melita Island comes in at 64 acres. The Boy Scouts of Montana are the owners of this longtime summer camp on Flathead Lake. Melita Island has been a Boy Scout camp since the mid-1930s. Boy Scout campers share the island with mule deer, squirrels, eagles, osprey, geese and woodpeckers. Island activities include a wide variety of water sports like sailing, snorkeling, canoeing and water skiing, designed to challenge both youth and adults.
Bull Island and Little Bull Island are located in the “narrows” of Flathead Lake, an area in the south of the lake separating Polson Bay from the larger portion of the lake to the north. Prior to approximately 1920, Bull Island was also known as Idlewilde Island. The University of Montana Maureen and Mike Mansfield Library houses digitized archives of Native American artifacts found on Bull Island. Little Bull, owned by one family since 1959, houses several buildings and a chapel.
Emerald Island is private one-acre island listed on Airbnb as
a rental for $1,709 per night.
Cedar Island’s cedar and pine filled land once belonged to the Marshall family who sold the island to the state in the 1950s. The primary occupants of the island are birds, bats and some raccoons. Overnight camping is allowed.
Flathead Lake provides a lifetime worth of both water and land adventures so get started exploring. Research reveals a total of 17 names found for the islands on Flathead Lake: Bird Island, Bull Island, Cedar Island, Cromwell Island, Douglas Island, Dream Island, Emerald Island, Goose Island, Invitation Island, Little Bull Island, Mary B Island, Melita Island, Mother in-law Island, O’Neill Island, Rock Island, Shelter Island, Wildhorse Island. Apart from the publicly managed islands named in this story, others are privately owned and often marked as such with “no trespassing” signs on their shorelines.
For additional information about Wild Horse Island State Park, Flathead Lake and the state-managed islands contact the Flathead Lake State Park Ranger Station at 406-837-3041 or visit https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks
By Kathi Beeks / Valley Journal
Snow removal on Going-to-the-Sun began the first week of April and will continue until open to Logan Pass, usually between mid-June and early July. Typical years see snowstorms and avalanches continuing through May, making it impossible to predict an opening date. The road crew actively works across 40 avalanche paths, making operations highly dependent on avalanche hazard conditions.
Hikers and bikers can travel on Going-to-the-Sun Road as far as posted closures. Access beyond the closures is prohibited, and visitors who disobey the road closure signage are putting their safety, and that of rescue personnel, at risk.
North Lake McDonald Road is closed to public access including vehicles, hiking, or biking at the intersection with Going-to-the-Sun Road due to the Upper McDonald Creek Bridge replacement project. Parking at the intersection is also closed. Hikers will be unable to complete the Johns Lake Loop Trail and will need to turn around where trail closed signs are posted.
WEST GLACIER — Glacier National Park staff are gearing up for the season, and visitors will see an increase in recreational opportunities.
After remaining closed for the winter due to construction, the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road opened in May to vehicle and recreational access up to Lake McDonald Lodge. Construction will be ongoing through September to mill, reclaim, and pave the road. Visitors should drive and bike with caution. There will be waits of up to 30 minutes in each direction to pass through the construction zone. Nightly closures will begin June 1 from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. with opportunities for visitors to pass through at midnight, 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. The east side of Goingto-the-Sun Road is currently open to vehicles approximately six miles from St. Mary to Rising Sun.
The park’s free spring hiker/biker shuttle will provide weekend service from May 13 until June 25, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. running between Apgar Visitor Center, Lake McDonald Lodge, and Avalanche Creek. The shuttle operates on a first comefirst served basis. Full shuttle operations begin July 1 or when Going-to-the-Sun Road opens all the way, whichever comes first.
Due to bridge construction and road conditions, all roads in the North Fork area of the park are closed to vehicle traffic until May 25. The Inside North Fork Road will remain closed between Logging Creek and Fish Creek in 2023.
For more information about construction in the park, visit the construction page on the park website at: www.nps.gov/glac/ planyourvisit/projectwork.htm
Vehicle reservations are required for all west side park entrances starting May 26, and all east side entrances starting July 1. Check the Glacier National Park website for details.
Wilderness Permit Offices:
The Apgar Wilderness Permit office opened May 1. Two Medicine, St. Mary, and Many Glacier offices open May 26, and Polebridge opens May 27. The St. Mary and Polebridge permit offices are always accessible without a vehicle reservation. Apgar, Many Glacier and Two Medicine permit offices are inside the vehicle reservation areas. Once vehicle reservations go into effect for the season, these offices can be accessed without a reservation before 6 a.m. and after 3 p.m. Permits will also be available at the Waterton Lakes Visitor Centre in Alberta for trips originating from the Belly River, Waterton Townsite and Goat Haunt trailheads. Waterton Lakes Visitor Centre hours are currently 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For additional information on the wilderness permit reservation system, visit the park’s website.
Campgrounds: Most front country campgrounds will operate under a reservation system in 2023. Campground reservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Most campsites are reservable approximately six months in advance and several campsites in each campground can be reserved four days in advance to accommodate visitors with spontaneous itineraries. Visitors with camping reservations within a vehicle reservation area can use their camping reservation in lieu of a vehicle reservation. For example, a camping reservation for Apgar Campground counts as a Going-to-the-Sun Corridor vehicle reservation on the days of the camping reservation. The camping reservation may not be used to access other reservation areas including North Fork, Two Medicine and Many Glacier. Campgrounds in the North Fork area will be assigned first come, first served at the Polebridge Entrance Station. Front country campgrounds scheduled to open in May include:
- Apgar Campground: Advance camping reservations are required. Fish Creek Campground: Requires reservation.
- Sprague Creek Campground: Rrequires reservation.
- St. Mary Campground: Reservation will be required.
- Bowman Lake Campground: First come, first served basis.
- Kintla Lake Campground: First come, first served basis.
- Cut Bank Campground: Frst come, first served basis. Other park campgrounds not listed above are expected to open in June and July. Check the Campground page on the park’s website for a complete list of dates at: www.nps.gov/glac/ planyourvisit/camping.htm
Boat Inspections:
Private boating on Lake McDonald is available with the opening of the Apgar AIS (Aquatic Invasive Species) inspection station. Private boating for Bowman and Kintla lakes are open and AIS inspections will take place at the Polebridge Ranger Station.
Many Glacier AIS inspections begin May 26 at the Many Glacier Ranger Station. The park anticipates operational AIS stations for St. Mary and Two Medicine lakes in 2023. Opening dates are still to be determined.
Concession Operations:
All park concessions plan to operate this summer. Some concessioner services will open in May including lodging, tours, food service, and retail shops. Visitors can find links to each concessioner service through the Lodging, Restaurants, and Services webpage at: www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/ lodgingrestaurantsservices.htm
Visitor Centers:
The Apgar Visitor Center is staffed daily. St.Mary Visitor Center is open daily also.
Travelers should be prepared for changing conditions. Avalanches are still active on trails and along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Higher elevation trails can be dangerous and snowcovered until late June. Bears are emerging from their dens hungry, and visitors should take steps to travel safely in bear country.
Rodeo is a time-honored tradition here in the valley, a sport that brings people young and old together to enjoy sunny, high-flying fun and excitement in view of the gorgeous Mission Mountains. This summer, cowboys and cowgirls will test their skills with traditional competitions that date back to the early days of ranching in the old west.
According to the Smithsonian, rodeo as we know it, got its start in the 1800s based on the activities of rough-andtumble Mexican ranch hands, called “vaqueros,” who often gathered during downtimes to see who could ride the wildest horse or who was the best with a rope. The contests grew in popularity and ended up sweeping across the states, with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show in 1883 finally amplifying the sport’s recognition into the massive spectacle that we’re familiar with today.
A staple in Montana summers, rodeos include several challenges for men, women and even kids. Those too young for typical rodeo activities can try their hand at mutton busting, where kids are set atop a stationary sheep that’s then released and may start to run. Typically, a run lasts for under eight seconds and parents of mutton busters have described it as a good confidence building activity.
Calf roping is not only a rodeo event, but part of normal ranch work when a calf needs to be roped for branding or medical treatment. A roping competitor mounts their horse and takes after a calf once it’s set off running in the arena. The rider must rope the calf around the neck, dismount, bring the calf to the ground and tie three feet together to immobilize the animal.
Barrel racing sees a contestant and their horse enter an arena at full speed making a cloverleaf pattern around three barrels positioned throughout the arena as fast as
they can without tripping or knocking over a barrel. Victory goes to the fastest contestant ride, which often comes down to a hundredth of a second.
Saddle bronc riding, the “classic” rodeo event, has riders start out with their feet over the bronc’s shoulders to give the horse the advantage. To get a high score, riders have to synchronize their spurring with the horse’s bucking and keep control throughout the ride for at least eight seconds without using their free hand or slipping a stirrup.
Steer wrestling involves competitors jumping from their horse, grabbing a steer by the horns and leveraging its weight to wrangle it to the ground as quickly as possible. The wrestler must get the steer to the ground on its side and all four legs pointing in the same direction, to stop the timing clock.
One of the oldest rodeo traditions, bareback bronc riding, is also one of the wildest events. Like saddle bronc riding, riders start with their feet above the break of the horse’s shoulders. They have to do this holding onto a simple rigging with one hand and staying up for eight seconds. If their feet aren’t in the right position when the horse hits the ground on its first jump, the rider is out.
Arguably the most anticipated event, bull riding has riders climb atop a full-grown bull and try to hang onto a rope looped around the bull’s midsection for at least eight seconds. A challenging feat.
See the calendar of events section starting on page 38 for more details about the following local rodeos:
– Homesteader Days Rodeo, Hot Springs - June 10-11
– Mission Mountain Rodeo, Polson - June 23-24
– Arlee Rodeo, Arlee - July 4
– Pioneer Days Rodeo, Ronan - Aug. 4-6
– Flathead River Rodeo, Polson - Aug. 24-26
Story by Taylor Davison / Valley Journal
Bears are emerging from dens with the onset of spring, and people who are headed outdoors should be “Bear Aware.”
Bears can be found throughout Montana.
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) notes grizzly bear populations have expanded and bears are sometimes found in historic ranges beyond Western Montana.
People can avoid conflict by removing or securing food attractants such as garbage, bird feeders and pet food as bears begin foraging for food.
According to FWP, the most common human-bear conflicts involve unsecured food attractants.
People venturing into the outdoors can be bear aware by following these precautionary steps:
- Carry and know how to use bear spray.
- Travel in groups whenever possible and plan to be out in the daylight hours.
- Stay on trails or rural roads.
- Avoid carcass sites and concentrations of ravens and other scavengers.
- Watch for signs of bears such as bear scat, diggings, tornup logs and turned over rocks, and partially consumed animal carcasses.
- Keep children and pets close.
- Make noise, especially near streams or in thick forest where hearing and visibility is impaired. This can be the key to avoiding
encounters. Most bears will avoid humans when they know humans are present.
- Don’t approach a bear.
If you are camping in bear country, follow these guidelines:
- Camp away from areas where you see grizzly bear sign.
- Keep a clean camp at all times. Keep tents and sleeping bags free of food.
- Follow all food storage regulations. Contact the applicable land management agency to learn what food storage rules apply where you’re recreating. Hang all food, trash and other odorous items well away from camp and at least 10 feet above ground and 4 feet from any vertical support, or store in a bear-proof container. Livestock feed should be treated the same as human food.
- Anglers also need to practice safe behavior in bear country:
- Don’t leave fish entrails on shorelines of lakes and streams.
- Sink entrails in deep water.
- If you don’t properly dispose of entrails, you increase danger to yourself and to the next person to use the area.
- Carry bear spray when fishing along rivers or streams with dense streamside cover.
FWP offers additional advice on how to be bear aware at: fwp.mt.gov/conservation/wildlife-management/bear/be-bearaware
Wildfires can occur at any time of the year, the majority of wildfires in Montana occur between May and September of each year.
This is an ideal time to promote wildfire awareness in Montana so that residents and visitors can begin to reduce wildfire risk to their properties and communities through hazardous fuels reduction, incorporation of fire resistant building materials, and upkeep around their properties to maintain the wildfire risk reduction actions they have done previously. This is also an ideal time to remind recreationists, farmers, and ranchers to be cautious in their activities so that
there are fewer human-caused wildfires. Here are a few ways to prevent and prepare for wildfires:
- Clean out gutters, roofs and other areas where debris has settled
- Avoid burning on windy days and
never leave a burn pile unattended
- Create an evacuation plan and practice the route with family members
- Keep the space around your home, known as the home ignition zone, clear of dense vegetation
- Take action in your community by organizing a wildfire preparedness event
Preparedness is a shared responsibility, and we all have a role.
For more information and resources, visit www. keepgreen.org
If you have questions, please contact the Division of Fire at 406-676-2550 or contact C.T. Camel, Fire Prevention Specialist, at 406-676-2550 ext. 6407 or email ct.camel@cskt.org, or contact Devlin Lafrombois, Fire Prevention Tech II at ext. 6410 or email devlin. lafrombois@cskt.org.
POLSON — The Port Polson Players bring laughter back to the Mission Valley after a long, snowy winter. Montana’s fiftholdest summer stock company, the Players present three lively family-friendly comedies for their 48th summer season.
First up, playing July 6-16, is Tim McGuire’s heartfelt comedy with music, “Carry Me O’er.” Set in 1924 Ireland, an aging father, Cullan McGrath, brings his son Jack, a prominent teacher, back to the old homestead of six generations for some lessons in family, history, and a few very big surprises. But Jack has some pretty big news of his own. Neither man’s bombshell will make the other happy, yet must be told. As each tries to get the ball rolling, laughter abounds, and we learn a few lessons ourselves. Warm, wise and witty, the play features some of Ireland’s most popular traditional tunes.
Next up, July 21-August 6, “The Nerd” hits the Polson stage. Considered Larry Shue’s masterpiece, this razor-sharp comedy has become a theatre classic. Willum, an up-andcoming architect, and his local weather caster girlfriend Tansy, are obviously meant for each other. But when each is offered
a job far away, it’s up to their friend Axel, a seasoned theatre critic, to keep them together. Enter Rick Steadman, an army mate of Willum’s, who is now a hopeless nerd, and the tables –and everything else – get turned with gut-busting laughter.
An up-tight boss, his slightly psychotic wife and their 8-yearold grandson only add to the confusion, right up to the very surprising conclusion!
Please note – while regularly playing Thursday nights throughout the summer, there is no show July 20, as the company plays the Myrna Loy Theatre in Helena that evening, with the musical No Coward’s Epitaph, the story of Montana’s first territorial governor Thomas Francis Meagher.
The final summer show, “Butterflies are Free” by Leonard Gershe, plays Aug. 11 – 27. Set in the 1960’s, this period comedy tells the poignant story of a young man, Donny, who is making his first attempt at living on his own, despite the best efforts of his domineering mother. Donny is blind, and when he meets next-door neighbor, Jill, a full-fledged flower child, he discovers a whole new world, literally at his fingertips. The two develop a fast friendship that
quickly becomes a romance, threatened only by mother’s constant meddling and a creepy theatre producer. One wonders how things will end as these four very different worlds spin, connect and finally collide. All shows are produced at Polson’s beautiful Theatre on the Lake, on the Polson golf course in Boettcher Park. Curtain times are 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Seating is
reserved by calling the Players box office at 406-883-9212 or online at portpolsonplayers. com; walk-ins are also welcome. Tickets are $19 for adults, $18 for senior citizens and students, with a $1 discount for MVFA members and veterans. Although shows are not recommended for children under 10 (for complicated story lines), ask about family and large party rates.
News from the Port Polson Players
plenty of things that portray Montana as not what it is. This truly is a Montana film.”
Somewhere in Montana got its start about four years ago when Smith presented the concept to Bryant in 2019. They’d made short films together before, but when Smith explained that he was serious about making a feature film, Bryant told him to go for it and write the script. “So I did. Then it just escalated,” Smith said.
The two had intended to shoot the movie in 2020, but when COVID hit it ended up pushed back. Then, when notable actor Graham McTavish of Outlander, Lord of the Rings, Witcher, and House of the Dragon fame expressed interest in participating in the project “no matter what,” Smith and Bryant talked with the crew and decided to push back production a bit more to make sure McTavish could join. “Everybody said, ‘okay, that’s a good reason,’” Smith recalled. “(McTavish) is a fantastic actor. Not only that, but a fantastic guy.”
Smith and Bryant did end up creating another feature film during the wait, a horror film called “Nexus of Evil” that’s won a number of awards in film festivals since its release. They didn’t lose sight of their Montana love letter, however – which had gained a lot of traction and interest since the idea was shared –and returned to the project as soon as logistics allowed.
Filmed in Polson’s Perfect Shot, barber shop, Presbyterian
Church, and a local ranch as well as several places in Ronan, Big Arm, and along Flathead Lake, Smith explained the film became kind of a Lake County project. “It’s funny because you go outside and we’re in the barber shop in Ronan, then we go inside and we’re in the barber shop in Polson. But people outside this area are never going to know that,” Smith commented.
The movie also features Montana actors Tashia Gates from Anaconda who has acted in the show Yellowstone, Jared Broxterman out of Missoula who is originally from Ronan, as well as people from Helena, Marion, Bozeman, Great Falls, and more. All extras were from the area as well, as well as the businesses from which they rented equipment and got catering.
“Almost all of our crew was from Montana,” Smith stated. “We had a handful of people from out of state – we had to pull in a replacement first assistant director, and our director of photography was from out of state – but the majority of our production crew was from Montana.”
MONTANA’S RUGGED BEAUTY SERVES AS MORE THAN A BACKDROP, IT’S A CHARACTER IN THE FILM
Polson will get a taste of the spotlight this summer as the world premiere of the local made movie “Somewhere in Montana” will hold its red carpet event at Polson’s Showboat Theater on June 22.
A Nova Vento film, “Somewhere in Montana” is about a northwest Montana rancher at risk of losing his ranch, and a film crew that comes to town in search of a location to shoot their movie. The real story, however, is about the rancher and filmmaker – two very different men – who learn how to respect each other’s values without compromising their own.
The film was written and directed by Brandon Smith and produced by Eden Bryant, both Polson locals. Bryant attended grade school in Polson, while Smith and his wife have lived in the area for the last 18 years. “I think we’re locals now. I think, I’m not sure,” Smith laughed.
“We’re excited about having the premiere (at the Showboat) and show off their beautiful new location,” Bryant said. Owned
by Gary and Becky Dupuis, both Bryant and Smith expressed their gratitude for the theater.
“Gary and Becky have been really, really great about supporting us through a lot of things,” Smith stated.
The film itself, the two explained, is meant as a love letter to Montana, and Lake County in particular. “One of the best comments I think I’ve gotten on the film was – somebody watched the first few minutes and they said, “I’ve never felt so proud to live in this area,” Smith shared.
“I liked what our colorist said, (that) normally when he’s going through, he doesn’t have to pay much attention to background. It’s mostly the actors, skin colors, all that, getting the look and feel that the director and cinematographer want,” Bryant said. “(But) he said this film, the background is a character in it. Everything is so beautiful because it’s Montana. I loved hearing that, that they did pick that up because that was the intention, that Montana be a character in the film. And realistic – there’s
“We really tried to use people who knew and would understand the story,” Bryant said.
While there were some who came from out of state to contribute to the project, Smith and Bryant said the experience was a good one across the board. “From Eden on down through the whole Montana crew, it was so different from any other set you’ve ever been on,” Smith said. “Even people from out of town were like, ‘these are the kinds of sets we wish we could work on every film.’ Being in Montana was special for every single one of them.”
Being able to work in their home state was something special to both Smith and Bryant as well. “The feeling of being able to work at home is just amazing. And I think that’s one thing that people tend to forget, that Montana has filmmakers that live here. For so many years they’ve had to travel outside, to LA, to everywhere to get jobs, and to be able to work at home and be with your family is just incredible,” Bryant explained.
“One of the things we’d like to do is interface more with people in this area already … because we can get them more
involved at home. So, that’s another goal with all this,” Smith added.
In addition to their own productions, Smith and Bryant will be forming different classes to help local filmmakers with everything from set etiquette to things like “what’s a gaffer?” Additionally, they’re working to form support services in the area for a sort of film commission for Lake County to work with outside companies and connect with filmmaking resources while bringing money into the community as well. The two said they have a lot they want to do in the area and would love to be able to build a local crew and employ local people. “The idea is to train as many people as we can in this area because film is growing in Montana,” Smith explained.
As for Somewhere in Montana, tickets for the red carpet will open to the general public but only sold locally, not online. “We want it to really be about our community because without our community we wouldn’t have been able to make this film the way that we did,” Bryant stated. “It’ll be a Montana premiere, so you might have people show up with blue jeans and a cowboy hat, and you might have people show up
in full gowns because we never get the opportunity to do that here.”
Typically, films have a cast and crew screening before a big blow out premiere. However, this screening will be a combination, treating the cast and crew screening as the premiere. “We’re doing this specifically so people in the local community can experience this sort of thing,” Smith said. “We’re making a big deal of it (and) we’re letting everyone know this is happening. It’ll be a fun time.”
Smith and Bryant are currently working on a TV show and an additional movie, as well as distributing other indie films throughout the US. To learn more about their projects and how to participate in their filmmaking classes, visit: novavento. com
“(Even) though I don’t think any movie can be 100% authentic, so much of it was authentic in the way it was made, with the people who had their imprint on it – it’s not my movie, it’s not Eden’s movie, it’s everybody who had something to do with its’ movie,” Smith commented. “The DNA of the film is Montana. Lake County in particular.”
By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal
Lake County is home to six state parks offering multiple locations to fish, hike, camp, and swim. Five of the six are located on Flathead Lake: Wild Horse Island State Park, Big Arm, Yellow Bay, Finley Point and West Shore. The sixth park is at Lake Mary Ronan, a smaller lake located northwest of Dayton.
Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, offers world-renowned fishing opportunities. Anglers who are not members of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes will need a Flathead Reservation Use Permit/ State Conservation License with joint fishing stamp attached when fishing on the Flathead Indian Reservation. The Flathead Reservation includes the southern half of Flathead Lake.
A campsite reservation system was implemented in 2011 and is available for most state parks during the peak season of May 27- Sept. 5 by calling 855-922-6768; or go to montanastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
Big Arm
Located on U.S. Highway 93, Big Arm State Park is 13 miles north of Polson.
Visitors can enjoy the long pebble beach for swimming and sunbathing, go fishing for lake trout, board sailing, boating, picnicking, bicycling, hiking on the two and a half mile trail, wildlife viewing, scuba diving and water skiing.
The park is the only state park on Flathead Lake that’s open year-round. There are tent and RV sites for campers along with bear resistant storage lockers, as well as yurts for rent. Big Arm is the only Montana State Park to feature yurts, which
accommodate four to six people. Each campsite is equipped with sheltered picnic tables and fire rings.
Wild Horse Island State Park
Wild Horse is Flathead Lake’s largest island and offers a remote getaway for adventure-seekers. The 2,163-acre island was once used by Salish and Kootenai Indians as pastureland for their horses. The island was also used as way to protect the herd from being stolen by neighboring tribes.
The park is open all year. Visitors can beach their boats at one of the six public landing sites, as there are no public docks on the island. According to Montana FWP, visitors need to be cautious of wind, as it can come up without warning. All boats must be tied to live trees to prevent from blowing away.
There are a number of hiking trails throughout the island, with many opportunities for wildlife viewing. A herd of 200 bighorn sheep call the island home, along with plenty of mule deer and the occasional black bear.
Access to the island is by boat only, with Big Arm State Park being the nearest public boat launch.
Yellow Bay
Located in the heart of Montana’s sweet cherry orchards, Yellow Bay State Park is surrounded by fields of white cherry blossoms in spring. A sandy beach for swimming and sunbathing serves as a fishing access site in the winter. Visitors can enjoy scuba diving, bird watching, boating and fishing at the park. Yellow Bay is located 15 miles north of Polson on Montana Highway 35.
Finley Point
Located in a quiet pine forest on the south end of Flathead Lake, Finley Point State Park offers fishing access, a boat launch, and camping. The park has campsites, picnic tables and fire rings. For those planning a day trip, Finley Point visitors can take a short hike around the 28-acre park, jump in the lake to cool down or fish from land.
West Shore
Located in a mature forest overlooking Flathead Lake, West Shore State Park is another location to explore and enjoy a scenic area of the lake. The park has glacially-carved rock outcrops, which give visitors views of Flathead Lake, as well as the Swan and Mission Mountains. The rocky shoreline provides anglers with exceptional fishing, as many fish seek refuge in the rocks.
At 129 acres, the park has a wealth of outdoor activities for visitors. Activities include picnicking, swimming, fishing,
boating, hiking, camping, photography, wildlife viewing, ice fishing, and bird watching. The park offers fire rings, firewood, picnic tables, trashcans, drinking water and camping sites. The park is located six miles south of Kalispell on U.S. Highway 93.
Lake Mary Ronan
The only area park not located on the Flathead Reservation is Lake Mary Ronan. Located approximately eight miles northwest of Dayton off Lake Mary Ronan Highway, the secluded park surrounds the lake. Shaded by Douglas fir and western larch, the area offers scenic views throughout the park.
Fishing for kokanee salmon, cutthroat and rainbow trout and largemouth bass is good year-round at Lake Mary Ronan. The park offers numerous trails into the surrounding areas abundant in wildflowers and wildlife. Also while hiking, visitors have the opportunity to hunt wild mushrooms, pick huckleberries and spot birds along trails.
The park was renovated with new additions include pavement, electricity at individual campsites, a group campground area and additional boat trailer parking.
If you like the outdoors, you’ll love the Mission Valley. Hiking opportunities abound for every level of hiking activity, from flat day hikes ranging from less than an hour to all day within Ninepipe Reservoir to hilly climbs in the Mission Mountains that can lead to overnight trips.
Topographic maps and Flathead Indian Reservation Recreation Regulations Guide are available at local sports and outdoor activity retail stores, which provide information fishing, camping and picnic areas. Visitors should also note that recreational activities on tribal lands, from picnicking to day hiking to overnight camping and fishing, is generally permitted by everyone but requires purchase of a Flathead Indian Reservation Use and Conservation Permit.
Also note that some areas of the Mission Mountains are closed during a portion of the summer due to annual grizzly bear activity.
Irrigation canals also prevent short to intermediate hiking opportunities in various areas of the valley, however, note that many portions are closed to recreational activities. Property up to and including these canals is private property, with many owners fencing off access in order to graze livestock or limit access. Contact property owners for specific permission to access fenced off or gated roads or trails. Above all, respect the land and pack out what you pack in.
A brief overview of hiking areas includes:
— National Bison Range – The Range offers abundant opportunity for day hikes.
— Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge – The day hiking opportunities are endless at Ninepipe, matched only by the abundant wildlife that can be viewed through the Refuge.
— Pablo Reservoir – The Pablo National Wildlife Reservoir is located north of Pablo on the west side of Highway 93 along Reservoir Road. Hiking, fishing and waterfowl viewing are popular around the Pablo Reservoir.
— SKQ Dam – A short but steep hike yields a spectacular view, which is located southwest of Polson.
— Mud Lakes – This trail enters the Mission Mountains from Mud Lakes Trail, just over the Pablo Feeder Trail. It is an intermediate level hike that leads to a series of small lakes, including Mud Lake, that rewards hikers with a cool spot to enjoy a picnic lunch.
— North Crow – Follow North Crow Road to the trailhead, which
begins at the foothills of the Missions. The trail becomes steep and includes a number of switchbacks, including several shale slides. The trail winds up to Piper Crow Pass, which passes over to the eastern side of the mountains and down into the Swan Valley.
— Terrace Lakes – Access to the trailhead is via a long, old logging road that is primitive and accessed via Mollman Pass Trail. This is a long, intermediate to difficult hike.
— Swartz Lake – A shorter day hike, also accessed via a primitive road off Mollman Pass Trail.
— Mollman Pass – This trail leads to the Mollman Pass and Mollman Lakes, eventually leading down into the Swan Valley.
— Eagle Pass – This is a loop trail that leads up to a series of lakes, including Summitt Lake and Frog Lakes, before turning south to Moon Lake, then back west and down to McDonald Lake. Hikers should note that this trail runs just outside the northern border of the Special Grizzly Bear Management Zone, which is closed to recreational use July 15 to Oct. 1.
— Ashley Lakes – The Ashley Lake drainage from the two lakes to the Pablo A canal is restricted to day use only when the Grizzly Bear Management Zone is open to recreation use.
— McDonald Lake – Accessed by McDonald Lake, the long finger of a lake presents beautiful day hike and picnic opportunities. Note that the southern edge of the lake falls within the Grizzly Bear Management Zone.
— Mission Falls – Mission Reservoir, located east of St. Ignatius at the end of Mission Dam Road, includes plenty of day hike and picnic opportunities. At the east of the reservoir is the scenic lower Mission Falls, where another trail heads up into the mountains to the larger Mission Falls. This is an extremely difficult, markedly steep climb and recommended only for those in good physical condition.
— St. Marys Lake – Located southeast of St. Ignatius, St. Marys Lake is a pleasant area for recreation.
For more information on tribal recreation regulations, pick up a copy of the regulations wherever you purchase your conservation permit or contact:
CSKT-Natural Resources Department
301 Main Street, Polson, MT 59860 406-883-2888
When looking for activities to do here on the Flathead Reservation, those who are not Tribal members require recreation permits or licenses to enjoy the shared lands.
While there are no boating permits required on the Flathead Lake due to an agreement between the Tribe and State in 1988 – allowing people to boat, swim, kayak and more legally free of charge on Flathead Lake – boat ramps and docks for the area often do charge a small fee for their use.
Those interested in fishing on the south portion of Flathead Lake will need a fishing permit, as well as the CSKT AIS Prevention Pass for the year-long season. A fishing license is required to fish all other lakes and streams within Reservation boundaries. The Tribes also encourage people to take lake trout and whitefish out of the waters and these catches can even be donated to food banks in the area. Most facilities will accept fresh or frozen, cleaned or filleted fish, but please call an organization ahead of time to find out their parameters details before arriving.
Those looking to hunt during their time here should know that non-members of the Tribes are not allowed to hunt big game on the Reservation per state and Tribal law. However, bird hunting licenses are available.
Camping is a favorite activity of the area and requires a camping stamp to set up anywhere on Tribal lands. While off-roading in motorized vehicles is prohibited, people exploring on foot can find designated camp sites away from roads. Designated camping areas can be identified by things like fire rings or open areas with evidence of prior camping. For a fee, there are also paved campground spots available that include hook-ups for campers and RVs, such as the Blue Bay or Big Arm campgrounds.
While all non-tribal members are invited to enjoy the lands, certain wilderness areas on the reservation require a conservation license – sometimes called a reservation license – to both enter and recreate within; this includes hiking. These areas are marked by large metal signs and at popular locations, seasonal gate guards checking for permits. Those visiting without a permit will be asked to acquire one before proceeding. Permits
for both season-long access and threeday use are available, as well as some in combination with other recreation licenses.
Prices of permits and licenses may vary depending on the residence of the applicant. Additionally, there are some areas of the Reservation that are private property where visitors are not permitted and are marked with clear signs.
For up-to-date details and pricing information on all recreation permits and licenses, go online to: www.csktnrd.org/ fwrc/recreation or call or visit any of the following Reservation Permit Vendors:
Polson:
CSKT Division of Fish, Wildlife, Recreation and Conservation
406 6th Ave East, 406-883-2888
Walmart 36318 Memory Lane, 406-883-9211
Ronan:
Westland Seed
36272 Round Butte Road, 406-676-4100
St. Ignatius:
Allard’s Stage Shop
77579 US Highway 93, 406-745-2951
Pablo:
Zimmer Tackle
35933 Carlyle Lane, 406-675-0068
By Taylor Davison / Valley Journal
Farmers markets offer a plethora of locally sourced items and the chance for people to socialize during an outdoor event. People interested in market going have several choices in Lake County.
The Polson Farmers Market is held in Polson on 3rd Avenue West near Flathead Lake every Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This market is said to be Montana’s oldest, longest-running market. Vendors offer breads, vegetables, cheeses, flowers, and more.
In Ronan, the Ronan Farmers Market is a newer hub for handmade items and vegetables and it’s open every Thursday
from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. The Ronan market can be found on U.S. Highway 93 behind the Visitors Center.
The Mission Falls Market is the newest market in the valley and is open every Friday from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Good Old Days Park in St. Ignatius, across from the gas station in town. Many handmade items are available at all the markets. Jewelry of all types and sizes can be found on tables set up by local vendors. After looking at the non-edible items, visitors can start in on the goodies, including homemade pies, breads, scones and handcrafted cheeses.
For over 120 years the rich sounds of summer powwows filtered through the summer air on the Flathead Indian Reservation. The Jingle dress was said to sound like rain as the dancers circle around the powwow grounds with the echo of drum songs creating the heartbeat of each dance.
Willie Stevens of the Powwow Committee has said that a powwow was historically a time when Native American people came together during the summer months.
“The people wouldn’t see each other all winter,” he said, adding that many Salish people lived in smaller family groups and would winter in one spot. It was a way for people to get together to catch up with extended family and friends.
According to information compiled by Montana’s Indian Education for All committee, “dancing was one of the first aspects of Native American culture to come under criticism by missionaries and the federal government. In the 1880s, the federal government forbade most forms of dancing fearing that all dancing was a form of war dancing. The ghost dance was especially feared. It was not until the 1920s that Native peoples were again allowed to dance and practice parts of their religion.”
The Arlee Celebration began during the first weekend in July of 1898 after local tribal members came up with an idea to get around cultural suppression measures of the time. They decided to develop a powwow and call it a Fourth of July celebration so that the government would allow it. The Arlee Celebration has been held the first week in July ever since.
The permanent location for the celebration was designated on Powwow Road in Arlee where a pavilion shades dancers from
the summer sun. Stevens said that it was possible that about 10,000 people attended the event during a regular year now that it’s open to the public. The celebration often includes about 60 dance categories from Men’s Traditional to Contemporary Jingle. The State of Montana compiled a description of those dances for their Indian Education for All guide by Murton McCluskey.
Men’s Traditional Dance is said to be a dance “held over from times when war parties would return to the village and dance out the story of the battle or hunters would return and dance their story of tracking an enemy or prey.” Regalia is often decorated with beadwork or feathers. The dancers are often veterans who carry traditional items symbolizing the status of a warrior, including a shield, weapon and honor staff. “The traditional step is done with the ball of the foot touching the ground on the first beat, and the whole foot on the second beat. The traditional dancer’s movements are patterned after animals and birds, like the grouse, and maybe an imitation of the tracking of the animals themselves.”
The Fancy Dance was danced mostly by young men and boys and said to be based on the standard double step of the traditional grass dances with increased speed, motion and movement. Dancers “must follow the changing beat of the drum, stop when the music dies and have both feet on the ground.” Regalia is described as featuring “a good deal of colorful fringe” to accent the movement of the dancer.
The War Dance was once a major event that was performed after battle. Men who were returning from war entered the village in a procession while acting our their “exploits in the battle” through
dance. “The War Dance for the contemporary American Indian does not exclude women and is a main part of all powwows for many tribes.”
Traditional Women’s Dance regalia can include a shawl, ribbon work, decorated moccasins, feather fan and various pieces of jewelry. “The design of each dress had a symbolic meaning to the individual owner.” It is said that dancing slowly around the circle is acceptable as well as is subtly shifting the feet. “At certain points in the song, women may hear words that have meaning to them. They may signal their pride and acknowledge the words by raising their fans. Others raise their fans during the honor beats of the song.”
Women’s Fancy Shawl Dance is a “relatively new addition” to the dance competition. “Until recently, women performed their fancy dancing in traditional garb. Some accounts say, in the early 1900s, shawls replaced the blankets and buffalo robes young girls traditionally wore in public. In the 30s and 40s, young women would show off the shawls they made by doing some fancy footwork during the dances. Some say that was how the Women’s Fancy Shawl dance was born.” Footwork is said to be the main element of the dance. Dancers follow the changing beat of the drum and stop with the music.
Jingle Dress Dance is thought to come from a dream about four women wearing jingle dresses. The women showed the dreamer how to make the dresses and what songs went with it, “but until recently, the jingle dress dance had all but died out. Now interest in the jingle dress is rekindled and women from many tribes are beginning to wear them.” Hundreds of metal cones or jingles cover the dress. The dancers keep time with the music and stop when it does.
The Owl Dance is performed by couples to the beat of a drum. “It is performed at social events and all ages participate.”
The Round Dance “evolved into a dance of friendship” that is
performed by all ages and is easily taught to visitors. “Everyone is encouraged to dance by forming a circle and dancing clockwise.” Regalia is not necessary.
Intertribal Dancers move clockwise and everyone is welcome to dance in regalia or street clothes. The basic step is that one foot is tapped on one beat and placed down flatly with the next and the action is repeated with the opposite foot.
Exhibition Dances “give dancers an opportunity to exhibit their specific style” without being judged. “Usually, each category will have an exhibition dance.”
Dropped Eagle Feather Dance includes a ceremony where spectators should stand and remove their hats. Picture taking, with still or video cameras, is not permitted. “To most Native Americans the eagle feather is sacred. So, when a feather falls from a dancer’s outfit, the powwow must stop and a special ceremony must be performed.”
Further details about local powwows scheduled for this summer, can be found in the calendar starting on page 38.
By Valley Journal Staff
Mission Valley map sponsored by Flathead Lake Herb
M on t a n a F a c t s
◆ S t ate M o t to: O ro y P l a t a ( S pan is h f or gold and sil v er)
◆ S t ate F lo w e r : B i t te r r o o t
◆ S t ate A ni m al: G ri z zly B e ar
◆ S t ate B ird: W e s te r n M e adow l ark
◆ S t ate T r e e: P onder o sa P ine
◆ S t ate G em s : S apphire & A g ate
◆ P opu l ation: 1 ,0 84 , 225 ( 2 0 20 census) ( C ows s till o u t n u m b er p e ople 2 :1)
◆ A r e a: 1 4 7, 0 4 0 sq. mil e s
Mission Valley map sponsored by Flathead Lake Herb
M on t a n a F a c t s
◆ S t ate M o t to: O ro y P l a t a ( S pan is h f or gold and sil v er)
◆ S t ate F lo w e r : B i t te r r o o t
◆ S t ate A ni m al: G ri z zly B e ar
◆ S t ate B ird: W e s te r n M e adow l ark
◆ S t ate T r e e: P onder o sa P ine
◆ S t ate G em s : S apphire & A g ate
◆ P opu l ation: 1 ,0 84 , 225 ( 2 0 20 census) ( C ows s till o u t n u m b er p e ople 2 :1)
◆ A r e a: 1 4 7, 0 4 0 sq. mil e s
map provided courtesy of the Flathead Lake Biological Station
As Montanans look to enjoy the outdoors this spring and summer, state and local public health officials urge everyone to follow a few simple steps to prevent tick bites and related illnesses: limit exposure to ticks, use insect repellent, and inspect yourself, your gear, and your pets for ticks.
To avoid tick-borne illness, public health officials recommend:
— Avoid areas with high grass and leaf litter and walk in the center of trails when hiking.
— Use EPA-registered insect repellent.
— Treat clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin. Permethrin can be used to treat boots, clothing and camping gear and remains protective through several washings. Alternatively, you can buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear.
— Bathe or shower as soon as possible after coming indoors to find and wash off crawling ticks before they bite you. It’s important to pay close attention to areas where ticks like to hide: under the arms, in and around the ears, inside the belly button, back of the knees, in and around the hair, between the legs, and around the waist.
— After leaving the outdoors, check your clothing, gear and pets for ticks.
— Put dry clothes in a dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks after you come indoors. If the clothes are damp, dry thoroughly and then tumble dry on high for 10 more minutes.
Common symptoms of tick-borne infections include fever and chills, aches and pains, rash, and fever of varying degrees. The DPHHS stresses, although most symptoms are easily treated with antibiotics, many present with general flu-like symptoms so it’s important
to communicate exposure risk to your provider. Early recognition and treatment of the infection decreases the risk of serious complications.Individuals should see their healthcare provider immediately if they have been bitten by a tick and experience symptoms.
If a tick is found and is attached, follow these steps to safely remove the tick.
— Use fine-tipped, “pointy” tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
— Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the mouth parts with tweezers. If you are unable to remove the mouth easily with clean tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.
— After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.
— Do no use folklore remedies such as “painting” the tick with nail polish or petroleum jelly or using heat to make the tick detach from the skin. These methods are not recommended and may cause the tick to burrow deeper into the skin.
From the Department of Public Health and Human Services
To help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species and keep our waters clean, the state of Montana requires all people transporting motorized and nonmotorized boats into Montana to have their watercraft inspected before launching. This includes kayaks, canoes and paddle boards.
According to Montana’s Fish, Wildlife and Parks, boat owners are required to stop at all open watercraft inspection stations. People purchasing used boats should ensure the watercraft are clean, drained and dry before crossing the Montana state line.
If you do not encounter a Montana watercraft inspection station while traveling, inspections conducted in Idaho and Wyoming fulfill Montana’s inspection-before-launch requirements. Boaters must carry a proof of inspection receipt and, when applicable, a seal. Stop at all open inspection stations encountered in Montana where your watercraft may be reinspected.
An Aquatic Invasive Species check can also be scheduled at the CSKT Fish and Wildlife office in Polson. Located at 406 6th Avenue East, appointments are available Monday through Thursday by calling 406-883-2888 ext. 7200.
Thank you for doing your part to keep Montana’s waters pristine and enjoyable for everyone.
CHERRY
SUN
FOODIE COMPETITION 1PM
WEDNESDAY, MAY 31
Art exhibit
POLSON — The Sandpiper Art Gallery, 306 Main Street, will hold an invitational exhibit of fiber and glass. This exhibit will feature several regional artists and their interpretations of the theme. The exhibit runs until July 19.
SATURDAY, JUNE 3
First Saturday event
CHARLO — The Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana summer events schedule includes “First Saturday of the Month” events from 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m., featuring artists, photographers, writers,
MAY / JUNE
craftspeople, musicians, and the Frybread Ladies frying up their specialty frybread. Call 406-644-3435 or check our website and social media for updates on monthly featured artisans.
Craft fair
POLSON — The second annual “Connecting our Community” vendor/craft fair and garage sale will take place from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 301 16 th Ave. E. A hot dog lunch will be available for $2 from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Taco throw down
POLSON — Glacier Brewing Company, 6 10th Ave., will host a Taco Throw Down event
by Belly of the Beast and Saddled Up Tacos. Come join us Saturday, June 3, for a taco throw down where our most popular local food vendors are going head-to-head to see who wins the people’s vote. Tickets are $20 and are on sale now. The throw down takes place from 4-8 p.m. Live music, beer, tacos and great company are guaranteed. Don’t miss out.
SUNDAY, JUNE 4
St. Joseph Scramble
POLSON — The Providence St. Joseph Golf Scramble takes place at the Polson Bay Golf Course. This fun fourperson scramble begins at 8 a.m. and wraps up at 5 p.m.
Contact
THURSDAY, JUNE 8
Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous
RONAN — The Ronan Chamber of Commerce hosts the 4th annual Mission Valley Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous from noon on Thursday, June 8, to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 12. They are excited to present 13 of the most talented artists from across United States as well as internationally this year. The competition will be intense as they carve a
“masterpiece” to be auctioned off on Sunday at 1 p.m. Artists will also do a “quick carve” each of the four days. Some of the “quick carves” will be available for auction on Friday, June 9 at 6 p.m. All events take place at the Lake County Fairgrounds. The public is encouraged to watch these amazing carvers. No admission fees charged. Food and craft items will available from on-site vendors.
Chainsaw carving
RONAN — Watch as amazing works of art are created by international chainsaw carvers at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Ronan. The four-day Mission Valley Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous
will hold nightly quick-carve auctions, carvings for sale and food and craft vendors.
Homesteader Days
HOT SPRINGS — The 74th annual Homesteader Days and Open Rodeo, one of Northwestern Montana’s notto-be-missed signature events, will be held June 9-11 in Hot Springs. Fun-filled family events begin on Friday at noon and end at 11 p.m. There will be a variety of vendors on Main Street with art, crafts and food for sale. In the evening enjoy music and dancing.
Golf Polson
POLSON — The Glacier Bank Two-Person, Better Ball golf tournament will be held at
the Polson Bay Golf Course on June 10 and 11. Go to: polsonbaygolf.com for more information.
RONAN — Watch as amazing works of art are created by international chainsaw carvers at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Ronan. The four-day Mission Valley Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous will hold nightly quick-carve auctions, carvings for sale and food and craft vendors.
RONAN — The Mission Mountain Quilt Show will take place in conjunction with the Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous, on Saturday, June 10, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday, June 11, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., in
the High School Gymnasium. Our theme this year is “We the People,” exemplified by this year’s raffle quilt. Additional quilted items will also be for sale along with vendors, a consignment market, a raffle basket and more. Come vote for your favorite quilt. There is no admission fee. The guild supports those who’ve lost their homes to fire by giving Tender Loving Care quilts to fire victims in Ronan, St. Ignatius and Polson communities.
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of the Late Models, Mod 4’s, Hobby Stocks, Hornets and Legends racing. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for children 8-14; children under 7 are free.
Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. Call 406-212-8159 for more information.
HOT SPRINGS — Kids games, vendors, art and crafts shows, a car show and rodeo continue at the Homesteaders Days festival from 9 a.m.-2 a.m. on Main Street. The Homesteader Rodeo begins at 6 p.m.
CHARLO — On Sunday, June 11, from 2-5 p.m. a Heritage Keeper Benefit fundraising event will be held. The ticketed
event includes music, food, a live auction and will feature Native speakers Aspen and Cameron Decker of “Xwlxlilt”, (Salish for Alive and Well), along with Salish singing, drumming and hoop dancing. For more information call 406644-3435 or check out our website and Facebook.
RONAN — Sunday is the final day of the Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous at the Lake County Fairgrounds. The competition will be intense as they carve a “masterpiece” to be auctioned off. The final Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous auction begins at 1 p.m.
Quilt auction
RONAN —A Mission Mountain Quilt Guild Show will be held in conjunction with the Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous in the High School Gymnasium June 10 and 11. The guild
supports community home Fire losses by giving TLC (Tender Loving Care) quilts throughout the Ronan, St. Ignatius, and Polson communities. A beautiful queen size quilt will be auctioned off on Sunday afternoon.
Homesteader Days final day
HOT SPRINGS — The final day for Homesteader Days revelers takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Main Street. The much-awaited parade begins at noon and the second day of the rodeo begins at 2 p.m.
MONDAY, JUNE 12
WMCPGA Pro Am
POLSON — The 2023 WMCPGA ProAm will be played on the closed 18-hole course from 6 a.m.-5 p.m. Go to: polsonbaygolf.com for more information.
Summer Reading Program
POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library will begin their Summer Reading Program on Monday, June 12, at 9:15 a.m. Call 406-8722066 for more information or visit their website. Summer Reading Program activities will take the place of Thursday Story Time for the summer.
THURSDAY, JUNE 15
Visit historic site
ST. IGNATIUS — From June 15-18 live history displays will be held at the Fort Connah Trading Post . Primitive camp/traders set-up takes place Thursday, June 15, and Friday, June 16. Opening ceremonies take place at noon on Saturday and main events are on Saturday, June 17, and Sunday, June 18. For more information call 406-745-4336 or email: 4winds@blackfoot. net
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Visit historic site
ST. IGNATIUS — From June 15-18 live history displays including flint knapping, fur display, black powder and wool spinning will take place at Fort Connah Trading Post on Highway 93 just north of St. Ignatius. Plenty of fun and educational experiences for the whole family. Come see the oldest standing wooden structure in Montana. Main events are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, June 17, and Sunday, June 18. Book signings and talks take place both days from 12:30-3:30 p.m. Free wagon rides and Native American food tent on site along with daily 50/50 raffles, black powder shoots and a bake sale. For more information call 406745-4336 or email: 4winds@ blackfoot.net
Vase class offered
RONAN — Judy Wright will guide you in making your own fused glass pocket vases during this two-day class scheduled for June 17 and 24. The classes are from 1-4 p.m. each day and located at Judy’s Ronan studio. All materials provided. Call 406-883-5956, for more information.
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113
N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of the Legends, Winged Sprints, CAN-AM Sprint racing. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. Call 406-2128159 for more information.
ST. IGNATIUS — At 3 p.m., Tanner Laws, one of our own Montana boys, plays a large variety of both cover songs as well as many of his own originals. At 5 p.m. The Nate Champion Band will play. They
are a 5-pc. improvisational mixed genre jam band with an emphasis on fun music that makes you want to get up and dance! From 9:30-11 p.m. Kenny Feidler and The Cowboy Killers will perform. Fiedler’s dark and stormy cowboy lyrics combine with a heavy rock and roll band. Kicking off for Feidler will be up-and-coming singer/ songwriter Kellen Smith. All tickets are general admission for $40. There will be parking available at the St. Ignatius Schools (76 3rd Ave, St. Ignatius) for $10 with shuttles available or it is a 5 min. walk to the venue. All parking proceeds go to St. Ignatius Schools. There will also be limited free parking at the venue, 228 Mountain View Dr.
SUNDAY, JUNE 18
Father’s Day
Father’s Day golf
POLSON — A Father’s Day two-person scramble parent/ child and husband/wife golf tournament takes place at the Polson Bay Golf Course from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. Go to: polsonbaygolf.com for more information.
MONDAY, JUNE 19
Data and Donuts
YELLOW BAY/ZOOM — The
Flathead Lake Biological Station, 32125 Bio Station Lane, will hold science lectures for the public from 10-11 a.m., either on site or via Zoom. Speakers’ topics are determined by their areas of expertise. Contact Gordon Luikhart at 406-872-4517, for more information.
Bible Day Camp
POLSON — The Flathead Lutheran Bible Day Camp will be held June 19-23. The theme is “Holy Trinity, Wholly Love.” All children entering grades 1–6 (fall 2023) are welcome to attend. The cost is $75 per child and camperships are available. Space is limited. Lots of activities: swimming, games, arts and crafts. This Ecumenical program is sponsored by Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Polson Presbyterian Church, and the Dayton Community Presbyterian Church. The first five 1st graders to apply will receive free camperships. For information and forms, call any of the listed churches or contact VBDC Co-Chairs Marilyn Trosper 406-249-3938 or Carolyn Heinz 406-2508731.
Summer Solstice for the Flathead Lakers annual meeting and 65th Anniversary Celebration. Social hour begins at 5 p.m. with drinks and appetizers. The program starts at 6 p.m.
Pro-Am tourney in Polson
POLSON — The PWGA Ladies Invitational golf tournament will be held at the Polson Bay Golf Course on June 21 from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Contact bmvick@yahoo.com for more information.
FRIDAY, JUNE 23
Rodeo in Polson
POLSON — The Mission Mountain Rodeo is a Northern Rodeo Association sanctioned event that takes place Friday, June 23, and Saturday, June 24. At 6 p.m. watch youth events including mutton bustin’, mini bull riding and pony mini buckers. At 7 p.m. the rodeo begins with bareback, steer wrestling, saddle bronc, team roping, tie down roping, ladies and youth barrel racing, ladies and youth breakaway roping and bull riding. Tickets are available at the gate: $10/adult, $5/children under 12. There are no pre-sale tickets. Food, beverage and beer garden concessions will be available. Stay for live music after Friday night’s performance. Free vendors fair, non-food items only. Call Sharon at 406-2612861 for more information. For general rodeo information call 406-883-1100.
SATURDAY, JUNE 24
Summer Solstice Brewfest
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21
Lakers celebrate Anniversary
POLSON — Join us on the
RONAN — The Lake County Fairgrounds will be the site of Ronan Chamber of Commerce’s first Summer Solstice Beer and Music Festival on Saturday, June 24,
from 1-5 p.m. Over 20 different microbrews will be available. Dust off your dancing shoes for food, beer and fun.
ST. IGNATIUS — The St. Ignatius Fire Department Auxiliary is hosting their annual Picnic and Auction on Saturday, June 24. There will be concessions and a pig roast with all the fixin’s along with a silent auction starting at 11 a.m. There will be raffles for half a beef, a whole hog, and two guns along with door prizes, including entry into a drawing for a $500 Harvest Foods gift certificate with every meal purchase. Activities end at approximately 2-3 p.m.
MONDAY, JUNE 26
Data and Donuts
YELLOW BAY/ZOOM — The
Flathead Lake Biological Station, 32125 Bio Station Lane along the east shore of Flathead Lake, will hold science lectures for the public from 10-11 a.m., either on site or via Zoom. Speakers’ topics are determined by their areas of expertise. Contact Gordon Luikhart at 406-872-4517, for more information.
POLSON — Future Phenoms Golf Camp is designed for competitively driven Montana youth golfers, ages 12-18, who have goals of state championships or college scholarships. Two sessions will be held: 8 a.m.-noon and 1-5 p.m. The cost is $200. Two scholarships will be available for each session. Included in the scholarship will be entry into the camp and a $150
travel stipend. Scholarship information can be found by emailing lead instructor Cameron Milton, PGA at cmilton@pga.com.
Arlee Celebration Powwow begins
ARLEE — The Arlee Celebration Powwow begins with Campers’ Day. Gates open at 9 a.m.
THURSDAY, JUNE 28
Arlee Powwow continues
ARLEE — The Arlee Celebration Memorial Ceremony takes place at 7 p.m. (No gambling until after this ceremony.) Traditional material stick games follow the ceremony. Visit http://www. arleepowwow.com for more information.
FRIDAY, JUNE 30
Annual Chamber Blast planned
POLSON — The Polson Chamber of Commerce hosts their 12th annual Chamber Blast Event on Friday, June 30, at Big Sky Sporting Clays, 3500 Irvine Flats Road. Registration takes place from 10-10:20 a.m.; from 10:2010:30 a.m. a Shooter Safety briefing will take place; from 10:30-2 p.m. the sporting clays tournament will be held and from 2-2:30 p.m. lunch will be served and an awards ceremony will take place. Registration deadline is June 19. Cost is $150 per shooter or $450 per three-person team. Registration includes 100 targets, 100 shells, door prizes, lunch and awards. Send registration to: Polson Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 667, Polson, MT 59860.
FRIDAY, JUNE 30
(cont’d from pg. 43)
Youth softball tournament to be held in Polson
POLSON — The Polson Splash Classic Fastpitch Youth Softball Tournament will be held Friday, June 30 to Sunday, July 2. Register online at: tourneymachine.com. Call 406-890-9215 for more information.
Arlee Powwow continues
ARLEE — The Arlee Celebration Powwow, “Honoring the Ways of the Salish People,” begins at 8 a.m. with the youth co-ed 3-on-3 basketball tourney. Royalty contestant interviews take place at 11 a.m. Social dancing is at 1 p.m. followed by royalty dance exhibition judging at 2 p.m. Registration for drum and dance competition is a 4 p.m. Supper break is at 5 p.m. Drum roll call is at 6:45 p.m. and Grand Entry is at 7 p.m. Adult women dance Traditional, Jingle, and Fancy dances and men dance Traditional, Grass, Fancy and Chicken dances. The day ends at 11 p.m.
SATURDAY, JULY 1
Ninepipes event
CHARLO — The Ninepipes
Museum of Early Montana summer events schedule includes “First Saturday of the Month” events from 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m., featuring artists, photographers, writers, craftspeople, musicians, and the Frybread Ladies frying up their specialty frybread. Call 406-644-3435 or check our
website and social media for updates on monthly featured artisans.
Speedway host sprint night
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of the Late Models, Hobby Stocks,
Northwest Modifieds racing. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. Call 406-212-8159 for more information.
Join epic outdoor workout, fundraiser
POLSON — Join Fellowship Fitness for an epic outdoor workout hosted by Glacier Brewing Company. The workout includes 30 minutes of HIIT Cardio and 15 minutes of stretch. The $25 entry fee includes workout and a beverage with proceeds benefiting Fellowship Fitness, a local non-profit serving the community with free fitness classes. Glacier Brewing Company will also donate $1 to FF for every beverage sold on July 1. Games, food, family fun and prizes are also planned. Follow FF on Instagram or Facebook or email: fellowshipfitness406@ gmail.com to learn more and register for the event.
Arlee Celebration Powwow continues
ARLEE — Registration for the Fun Run begins at 8 a.m. as the annual Arlee Celebration continues. At noon registration for Drum and Dance begins. At 12:45 p.m. the Drum Roll Call takes place and Grand Entry is at 1 p.m. followed by an invocation and welcoming
SEE PAGE 46
address. Crowning of 202324 Royalty and the Honor Dance, a Down-Syndrome Awareness to honor Kenna Baylor will happen along with a Tiny Tots candy throw, 6-12 girls Jingle special, Golden Age exhibition and the Drum competition continues. Dance Competitions for jr. boys, jr. girls, teen boys, teen girls takes place afterward. The hand drum contest is at 5:30 p.m. Drum roll call is at 6:45 p.m. and Grand Entry is at 7 p.m. followed by an invocation and welcoming address. Introduction of Royalty, InterTribals and exhibition dances for Tiny Tots and Golden age (over 70), and drum contest begins. At 9 p.m. dance contests begin for Jr. and Teens, Inter-tribals, Golden Age, Seniors, Junior Adults. The day ends at 11 p.m.
Arlee Powwow continues, dance & drum winners announced
ARLEE — Introduction of Royalty, Inter-Tribals and exhibition dances for Tiny Tots and Golden age (over 70), and drum contest begins. At 9 a.m. dance contests begin for Jr. and Teens, Inter-tribals and then for Golden Age, Sr. Adult men, Sr. Adult women, and Jr. Adult men and Jr. Adult women. Flags will be retired at 6 p.m. and dance and drum competition winners of 2023 announced.
Flathead Lake Cheese hosts week-long open house
POLSON — Flathead Lake Cheese hosts their annual Open House Week from July 2-7, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, at their shop, 208 First Ave. E. Call 406-883-0343 for more information.
MONDAY, JULY 3
Arlee Powwow continues
ARLEE — This is Traditional Day for the Arlee Celebration. There will be social dancing and exhibition and recognition for all Salish dancers and drums.
Fireworks in Polson
POLSON — The annual Polson fireworks display will take place at beautiful Riverside Park at dusk on Monday, July 3.
YELLOW BAY/ZOOM — The Flathead Lake Biological Station, 32125 Bio Station Lane, will hold science lectures
for the public from 10-11 a.m., either on site or via Zoom. Speakers’ topics are determined by their areas of expertise. Contact Gordon Luikhart at 406-872-4517, for more information.
TUESDAY, JULY 4
Parade in Polson
POLSON — On Tuesday, July 4, “Have a Blast” at the annual 4th of July parade in downtown Polson, scheduled for 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Pick up parade entry forms at the Polson Chamber of Commerce or for more information call 406-883-5969. A $20 donation per group is requested as an entry fee.
ARLEE — The Arlee Celebration Powwow concludes on the 4 th of July with the Snake Dance, social dancing and singing. The Arlee Rodeo takes place at 2 p.m.
Arlee Parade
ARLEE — The Arlee community hosts their annual 4 th of July parade at noon. The theme this year is “Freedom and Fireworks.” Participants will gather at the high school beforehand at 11:30 a.m. There will be a full line of categories again this year. For more information about the parade call 406-360-5398.
Jocko Museum open
ARLEE — The Arlee Jocko Valley Museum will be open from 9 a.m. to approximately 3 p.m. on July 4. The museum is run by the Arlee Historical Society and offers private tours by reservation. The museum is located at the corner of Bouch and Fyant (by the grade school). The museum has many historical displays, including photographs of Native and homesteading families, genealogy information and a military display commemorating fallen soldiers. Call 406-726-3167 for more information and a viewing appointment.
Play set in Ireland
POLSON — The Port Polson Players present Tim McGuire’s heartfelt comedy with music, “Carry Me O’er” July 6-16.
Set in 1924 Ireland, an aging father, Cullan McGrath, brings his son Jack, a prominent teacher, back to the old homestead of six generations for some lessons in family, history, and a few very big surprises. But Jack has some
big news of his own. Neither man’s bombshell will make the other happy yet must be told. As each tries to get the ball rolling, laughter abounds, and we learn a few lessons ourselves. Warm, wise and witty, the play features some of Ireland’s most popular traditional tunes. Seating is reserved by calling the Players box office at 406-883-9212 or online at portpolsonplayers. com; walk-ins are also welcome. Tickets are $19 for adults, $18 for senior citizens and students, with a $1 discount for MVFA members and veterans. Although shows are not recommended for children under 10 years (for complicated story lines only), ask about family and large party rates.
SATURDAY, JULY 8
Basketball tournament
BIGFORK — The 12 th annual Bigfork Battle in the Bay Basketball Tournament takes place July 8 in the Bigfork Schools’ parking lot. Registration deadline is June 19, and the entry fee is $160. For more information, call Steve Woll at 406-261-1561. No dogs are allowed.
Monster Trucks
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site for Malicious Monster Trucks. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for children 8-14; children under 7 are free. Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. Call 406-212-8159 for more information.
MONDAY, JULY 10
Members & Memories show
POLSON — The Sandpiper Gallery & Gifts, 306 Main Street, presents a membersonly show that features all of their talented and creative Sandpiper member family. All submissions will be the artists’ interpretation of the theme. This exhibit runs through Sept. 8.
Data and Donuts
YELLOW BAY/ZOOM — The
Flathead Lake Biological Station, 32125 Bio Station Lane, will hold science lectures for the public from 10-11 a.m., either on site or via Zoom. Speakers’ topics are determined by their areas of expertise. Contact Gordon Luikhart at 406-872-4517, for more information.
TUESDAY, JULY 11
Lake monitoring site tour
POLSON — The Flathead Lake Biological Station invites you to climb aboard the Far West as Flathead Harbor at Lakeside and Far West Boat Tours graciously host an afternoon cruise on Flathead Lake with FLBS researchers and interns to one of the Biological Station’s Flathead Lake monitoring sites. Enjoy food and beverages from the Harbor Grille while FLBS scientists and educators offer a conversational overview of Flathead Lake ecology, Flathead Watershed Monitoring Program, important FLBS research updates, FLBS education programs, and more. Cost is $60/person. Proceeds benefit FLBS research and monitoring. Space is limited. Reservations
are required.
FRIDAY, JULY 14
Gallery reception
POLSON — A reception for the “Members & Memories” art show will take place at the Sandpiper Art Gallery & Gifts, 306 Main Street, from 5-7 p.m.
Montana 200
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of the NW Super Late Models and Hobby Stocks racing. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for children 8-14; children under 7 are free. Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. Call 406-212-8159 for more information.
ST. IGNATIUS — Good Old Days begins with their first annual Art Festival on Blaine
Street. There will be art, crafts, food vendors a corn hole tournament and a beer garden from noon to 5 p.m. Good Old Days welcomes all with a barbecue meal on Friday, July 14, at the Good Old Days Park from 5-7 p.m. There will be gourmet burgers with all the fixin’s, fresh roasted beef, potato and macaroni salads, baked beans, fruit salad and dessert for $15 for adults and $8 for kids under 10. There will be adult and junior division dessert baking contests with a $100 adult prize and a $50 junior prize. The farmers market takes place from 5-7 p.m. From 5:30-7 p.m. look for Big Toys. Beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the St. Ignatius Amphitheater, Jeff Daniels and Western Front will provide family fun by performing classic country and rock music. Weather permitting, a fireworks display will end the evening. Plans are in place for the first annual softball tournament on both Friday and Saturday.
Bright and colorful acrylics class offered
RONAN — Judy Wright will demonstrate playing with acrylic inks in her class taught at her Ronan studio on Saturday, July 15, from 1-4 p.m. Cost of the class is $50, and includes all materials. Call 406-883-5956 for more information.
ST. IGNATIUS — The St. Luke Buffalo Run is part of Good Old Days’ family-orientated fun and is hosted by St. Luke Community Healthcare. Due to rising costs, there will not be a half marathon this year, but the other runs will continue as they have for years. The 1-mile fun run (walk/run), 4-mile run, and
7-mile run all start promptly at 8 a.m. on Main Street in front of Gambles Hardware (112 N. Main Street, St. Ignatius.) While each run takes a different route, they all end back at the starting line and the courses will be marked. Entry deadlines: regular rates are available March 1 until July 12. All entries after July 12 will be considered same-day registrations. Sign up at: https://runsignup. com/Race/MT/StIgnatius/ GoodOldDaysBuffaloRun. T-shirts are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Exact sizing not guaranteed. Same-day registration shirts will be limited to the supply available on race day. For more information, please contact Whitney Liegakos at 406-5285262 or email wliegakos@ stlukehealthcare.org.
Good Old Days continue
ST. IGNATIUS — Day two of Good Old Days begins with a pancake breakfast served at the St. Ignatius Senior Center from 7-11 a.m. Register for the Good Old Days parade, (the largest parade in Lake County), at 9 a.m. on July 15. Judging starts at 11 a.m. and the parade is at noon. You must be at the St. Ignatius High School before 11 a.m. to enter the parade. Parade categories include animal drawn vehicle, child rider, Native American, youth 12 & under, farm equipment, antique car, custom car, stock car, adult horse rider, commercial, novelty/humorous, clubs/ organizations/group. Big Sky Mafia’s car/truck show will take place at the Community Center parking lot from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Come out and see all the awesome trucks and cars. Contact Big Sky Mafia on Facebook if you want to put a vehicle in the show. Big Toys will be at the Good Old Days Park from 1-4 p.m. Dog races are at 1 p.m. and food and craft vendors will be at
the park from 1-4 p.m. Bingo will be played from 2-4 p.m. at the senior center. Family games like egg races, a water balloon toss, sprints and gunny sack races happen at 2 p.m. A beer walk is at 2:30 p.m. along with a tug-o-war. Lawn mower races are at 3 p.m. and from 1-4 there will be a tractor show and a National Guard obstacle course. From 4-8 p.m. a brisket, pork with all the fixin’s barbeque will be held at the airport along with helicopter rides for $50 a seat. The day ends with a night at the movies in the Amphitheatre at dusk.
Montana 200
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of the NW Super Late Models and Northwest Tour Trucks racing. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for children 8-14; children under 7 are free. Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. Call 406-212-8159 for more information.
SUNDAY, JULY 16
Huckleberry pancake breakfast wraps up Good Old Days
ST. IGNATIUS — Final Good Old Days events begin at the airport with a Fly-In breakfast including huckleberry pancakes, ham, eggs, coffee or juice served from 8 a.m.noon. There will be door prizes as well as a large general aviation aircraft display. Duck races begin at 9 a.m. As a final weekend event, a church jamboree is set for 6 p.m. at Good Old Days Park.
THURSDAY, JULY 20
Foundation dinner
POLSON — The Greater Polson Community Foundation’s “Passion for Polson” annual dinner is scheduled for Thursday, July 20. Visit greaterpolsoncommunityfoundation. org, for more information.
FRIDAY, JULY 21
Theatre classic
POLSON — From July 21-August 6, “The Nerd” hits the Port Polson Players’ Polson stage. Considered Larry Shue’s masterpiece, this razor-sharp comedy has become a theatre classic. Willum, an up-and-coming architect, and his local weather caster girlfriend Tansy are obviously meant for each other. But when each is offered a job far away, it’s up to their friend Axel, a seasoned theatre critic, to keep them together. Seating is reserved by calling the Players box office at 406-883-9212 or online at portpolsonplayers.com; walkins are welcome also. Tickets are $19 for adults, $18 for senior citizens and students, with a $1 discount for MVFA members and veterans.
Seaplane Fly-in
POLSON —Polson Fairgrounds Inc. announces a Seaplane Fly-In scheduled for July 21 and 22. Go to: polsonfairgroundsinc.com for more information.
SATURDAY, JULY 22
Poker Paddle event
FLATHEAD LAKE — Join us for the 7 th annual Poker Paddle for Clean Water event on Saturday, July 22, from
dinner will be served at 5 p.m. Livestock arrival, including swine weigh-in from 3-6 p.m. and livestock weigh in from 6-8 p.m., will take place. The annual Lake County Fair is a big event in the lives of many boys, girls and adults in the area, especially for 4-H and FFA students. Go to: lakemt. gov/fair/events.html for event schedules or pick up a Fair Book from local retailers. Fair books can also be viewed online at www.valleyjournal. net .
WEDNESDAY, JULY 26
4-H breakfast, market beef judging at Lake County Fair
RONAN — From 7-11 a.m. the Lake County Fair will hold a 4-H breakfast. The swine show takes place from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The Horticulture Barn opens at 10 a.m. Perishable open class check-in is from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The cat show is at 1 p.m. A family style dinner takes place at 5 p.m. At 6 p.m. market beef judging takes place. Open class
judges orientation is at 6:30 p.m. and open class judging happens between 7-9 p.m.
THURSDAY, JULY 27
Lake County Fair continues
RONAN — Breakfast is served from 7-11 a.m. at the Lake County Fair. The Kid Zone is open from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Judges orientation is at 8:30 a.m. The Sheep Show is at 9 a.m., the Goat Show is at 11:30 a.m., the Fashion
Review is at 4:30 p.m., the Small Fry Stock Show is at 5 p.m., the Market Livestock Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. and the Market Livestock Sale starts at 7 p.m.
FRIDAY, JULY 28
Oil landscape painting
POLSON — Nancy Miller will teach a class entitled Beginning Landscapes in Oil on Friday, July 28. Please check with the Sandpiper for further details by calling 406-
8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the KwaTaqNuk Resort. Bring your kayaks, SUPs, canoes or swimming ability on a short or long course to designated stops on the beautiful south end of Flathead Lake in Polson. Collect playing cards along the way. Prizes for best and worst hand. Each participant receives a commemorative gift. Food and music to follow. For more information email: lakers@ flatheadlakers.org or call 406-883-1346. Lunch will be provided for all participants. General admission for one Poker Paddle participant is $75 and Team Poker Paddlers’ costs are $45 per team member.
Wildhorse 3-on-3 tourney planned
PLAINS — The seventh annual Plains Wildhorse 3-on3 Shootout will take place on July 22 at Amundson
Sports Complex. Registration deadline is July 14. Entry fee is $160. Divisions will include first grade through adult. For more information, call Erica Swanson Lawyer at 406-5448493.
Art Festival in Polson
POLSON — Sandpiper Art Gallery & Gifts is pleased to present its 2023 two-day juried art show on July 22 and 23, featuring original fine art and crafts. The festival will again be located at Sacajawea Park with high visibility from Highway 93 and Polson Bay. Go to: sandpiperartgalleryandgifts. com to apply online or by PDF.
Horse Show kicks off county fair
RONAN — The 2023 Lake County Fair Horse Show begins at the fairgrounds in Ronan at 9 a.m.
SUNDAY, JULY 23
Art Festival continues
POLSON — Sandpiper Art Gallery & Gifts’ two-day juried art show, featuring original fine art and fine craft will be located at Sacajawea Park.
Shotgun event
POLSON — The Lake County Fair Shotgun Sporting Clays event begins at noon at Big Sky Sporting Clays, 42295 Irvine Flats Road in Polson. Call 406-883-2000 for more information.
Flathead Lake Run
LAKESIDE — Save the date for the 8th Annual Flathead Lake Run from 8 a.m. - noon at Lakeside’s Volunteer Park. This year’s run includes a kids’ 1-mile run and a 10k,
in addition to the popular 5k. Run for the love of Flathead Lake on July 23. Go to flatheadlakers.org, for more information.
MONDAY, JULY 24
Lake County Fair
RONAN — Lake County Fair judging interviews will be held at the Lake County Fairgrounds at 1 p.m. followed by the Northwest Counties Farm Bureau Youth luncheon at 2 p.m.
TUESDAY, JULY 25
Lake County Fair continues
RONAN — The Lake County Fair dog show begins at 8 a.m. Non-perishable open class check in takes place from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. A family style
883-5956.
Blues Festival
HOT SPRINGS — For two days on the north lawn of Symes Hot Springs Hotel the annual Hot Springs Blues Festival will feature true blues. The Pleasure Kings play nightly from 6-8 p.m. and from 8:30-10:30 p.m. JD and the Jaguars will also perform. Call 406-741-2361 or go to: symeshotspringsbluesfestival. com for updates.
Market Livestock Dinner
RONAN Lake County Fair festivities continue with a breakfast from 8-11 a.m. The kid zone will be open from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. A Rabbit Show is at 9 a.m. and the Mission Mountain Quilt Guild Show takes place at K.W. Harvey Elementary gymnasium from
10 a.m.-6 p.m. The Poultry Show is at 1 p.m. and the Rabbit Show is at 2:30 p.m. The Crabfest takes place from 5-9 p.m. Beef Showmanship takes place at 6 p.m. and a teen dance starts at 9 p.m.
Crabfest planned at Lake County Fairgrounds
RONAN — Be sure to watch for tickets as soon as they go on sale. This event sells out quickly and that’s because the Ronan Chamber Board Members have the crab boiling and all the fixin’s ready for a family style Crab Fest. Grab your grandmas, coolers, camp chairs and bibs and meet us at the Lake County Fairgrounds. Live music and so much more. More information at ronanchamber.com
SATURDAY, JULY 29
More true blues
HOT SPRINGS — On the north lawn of Symes Hot Springs Hotel the Hot Springs Blues Festival will feature true blues from around the Northwest. Music performed from 4-6 p.m. will be by the Kenny James Miller Band with Money Penny performing from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Mudslide Charley plays from 9-11 p.m. Call 406-741-2361 or go to: symeshotspringsbluesfestival. com for updates.
Ranch rodeo
RONAN — The Lake County Fair continues with breakfast at the fairgrounds from 8-11 a.m. The kid zone is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and the beef and dairy breeding and showmanship begins at 9 a.m.
The Quilt Show continues from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at K.W. Harvey Elementary. The Large Animal Round Robin takes place between 3 and 4 p.m. with the small animal Round Robin to follow. A ranch rodeo is from 5-8 p.m. All fair projects will be released between 7-9 p.m.
POLSON — The Polson Business Community invites you to participate in the 23rd annual Flathead Cherry Festival from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, July 29 and 30. They are proud to note that this two-day event has been recognized among the top five must-see tourism attractions in the state. The festival includes fresh local cherry sales, artists, vendors, local food and drinks.
Fridays 9 am - 1 pm
POLSON — The final day of the Cherry Festival takes place on Main Street in downtown Polson from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.
RONAN — At 9 a.m. the NBHA barrel race takes place at the Lake County Fairgrounds.
Flathead Lakers host Summer Soiree
POLSON — Join the Flathead Lakers for a Summer Soirée on Aug. 3 from 5-9 p.m. Attendees will enjoy a private concert from Marshall Catch on Black Point overlooking Flathead Lake. Light appetizers and drinks will be served. Limited to 125 attendees. The purchase of a ticket for the Summer Soiree covers food, beverage, and entertainment costs for the evening. We welcome additional donations to the work of the Flathead Lakers and will be making a special appeal at the event. Go to flatheadlakers.org, for more information.
POLSON — The Bio Station’s annual Open House provides an opportunity for the interested public to learn more about the ecology of the Flathead Watershed, and the Bio Station’s contemporary and historic research being done locally and all over the globe. Join us on the shores of Flathead Lake as FLBS scientists and educators showcase the breadth of their activities, and discover how
FLBS research, monitoring, and education programs are ecologically and economically benefiting the Flathead Watershed, its area visitors, and residents for generations to come. Open house activities include: tours of Biological Station facilities, boat trips on our 30-foot research vessel, the Jessie B, exhibits on recent Flathead research, including Flathead Lake ecology, presentations by FLBS research scientists and invited speakers, and much more. This event is free to attend and open to all.
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of Late Models, Mod 4’s, Hobby Stocks. Admission is $12 for
adults, $10 for children 8-15; children under 7 are free. Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. Call 406-212-8159 for more information.
Learn mosaics
POLSON — Julia Kennedy will teach a beginning mosaics class on Friday, Aug. 4, from 1-3 p.m. at the Sandpiper Gallery. Cost of the class is $50 and includes all materials. For more information call 406883-5956.
Free entry to Glacier Park
GLACIER PARK — Entry to Glacier National Park is free on Friday, Aug. 4 in celebration of the Great American Outdoors Act anniversary.
Pioneer Days celebration begins
RONAN — The Pioneer Days celebration begins on Friday, Aug. 4 and continues through Sunday, Aug. 6 at the Ronan Fairgrounds. Ronan Pioneer Days is a community event with fun for the whole family. There will be plenty of good old-fashioned entertainment. For more information call 406676-8300.
SATURDAY, AUG. 5
CHARLO — The Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana will once again hold “First Saturday” artist events where featured artists, authors, photographers, musicians or crafts persons exhibit their work. The fourth event of the summer will take place on Saturday, Aug. 5. Check out the museum’s Facebook page and social media for updates on monthly featured artists.
RONAN — The 27th annual Ronan Pioneer Days 3-on-3 Tournament takes place Aug. 5 in the Ronan Event Center
parking lot. The free throw, 3-point contest and dunk contest will be held at the Leonard Park Logging Center Court. Registration deadline is July 24 and entry fee is $160. No dogs allowed. For more information, call 406-2611521.
Pioneer Days fun continues
RONAN — Ronan Pioneers continues. Past events have included a mini petting zoo, dummy roping, stick pony racing, lawnmower races, farmer Olympics, sheep riding and sheep dressing. Visit www.facebook.com/ RonanPioneerDays for more information.
‘Butterflies are Free’ plays in Polson
POLSON — “Butterflies are Free” by Leonard Gershe, plays Aug. 11 – 27. Set in the
1960’s, this period comedy tells the poignant story of a young man, Donny, who is making his first attempt at living on his own, despite the best efforts of his domineering mother. Donny is blind, and when he meets next-door neighbor, Jill, a full-fledged flower child, he discovers a whole new world, literally at his fingertips. The two develop a fast friendship that quickly becomes a romance, threatened only by mother’s constant meddling and a creepy theatre producer. One wonders how things will end as these four very different worlds spin, connect and finally collide. Seating is reserved by calling the Players box office at 406-883-9212 or online at portpolsonplayers. com; walk-ins are welcome also. Tickets are $19 for adults, $18 for senior citizens and students, with a $1 discount for MVFA members
and veterans. Although shows are not recommended for children under 10 years (for complicated story lines only), ask about family and large party rates.
music. There will be a wide range of displays from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. For information go to: https://www. sandpiperartgalleryandgifts. com/festivals
Cruisin’ by the Bay
POLSON — This is the last day to register for the North Lake County Public Library’s Summer Reading Program. Call or go to the library’s temporary location 301 16th Ave. E.
POLSON — The 52 nd annual Sandpiper Art Festival takes place on the Lake County Courthouse lawn in downtown Polson. You will find amazing examples of local and regional fine art, artisans, crafters and
You can prevent the death of a grizzly or black bear by protecting your livestock, garbage, bees, and other attractants today with an electric fence or bear-resistant garbage cans and preventing that bear from learning bad behaviors!!
Common Bear Attractants Include:
• Human food
• Household trash
• Fruit trees
• Livestock & poultry (and feed)
• Pet food on porches
• Vegetable & flower gardens
• Compost piles
• Birdfeeders
• Bee hives
The majority of conflicts involving bears and small livestock can be prevented by using electric fencing
POLSON — Mission Valley Cruisers will show off their cars from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Main Street while the Rotary Club hosts a Beer Garden. The Sandpiper Art Festival is held the same day on the Lake County courthouse lawn. For more information call 760-9649406.
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of the Hot Summer Nights Late Models and Northwest Modifieds racing. Admission
The number one human-black bear conflict on the Flathead Indian Reservation is garbage. Secure your garbage in a bear-resistant garbage container or secured hard sided dwelling until the morning of pickup.
Bring a current CSKT Recreation License or Tribal ID to the Division of Fish, Wildlife, Recreation & Conservation office in Polson (406 6th Ave E) to obtain a can of bear spray for only $20*while supplies last, only one can issued per person
To report a bear conflict, or to learn more about how to secure attractants in the Mission Valley on the Flathead Indian Reservation contact the CSKT Wildlife Management Program at (406) 275 - 2774
Their survival depends on it…
is $12 for adults, $8 for children 8-15; children under 7 are free. Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. For more information call 406212-8159.
POLSON — The Polson Rotary Festival for Youth is an annual fundraiser benefitting Mission Valley youth. Since 2007, the Polson club has distributed over $300,000 to various youth programs. Applications for the fundraiser can be found on the Polson Rotary website at: https://portal.clubrunner. ca/1867/. Email Brooke Duty via the rotary website’s contact us page for more information. Planning is underway for the annual event in August. The new format will be a Brewfest featuring four area breweries. Raffle tickets will be available.
POLSON — The North Lake County Public Library wraps up their Summer Reading Program with an ice cream social and prize drawing at 10 a.m. Check with the library for any schedule change.
Polson
POLSON — The Montana Contractors Association will hold a golf tournament at the Polson Bay Golf Club. The tournament gets underway at 8 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 17, and concludes at 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 18.
SATURDAY, AUG. 19
Market Event
POLSON — The Small-Town Girl Market offers antiques, handmade items, repurposed items, food, fun and unique goodies. Small Town Girl Market will take place on Saturday, Aug. 19, at the Foursquare Church, 40677 Partridge Trail, between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Admission is $3; kids under 12 are free. Email smalltowngirlmarket@gmail. com for more information.
Legend Madness
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of Legend Madness racing with Hobby Stocks and Legends. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for children 8-15; children under 7 are free. Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. For more information call 406212-8159.
POLSON — Nancy Miller will teach a class entitled Beginning Landscapes in Oil on Friday, July 28. Please check with the Sandpiper for further details by calling 406 883-5956.
FRIDAY, AUG. 25
Mixed media florals
RONAN — Judy Wright will teach a two-day workshop on painting mixed media florals on Aug. 25 and 26 from 1-4 p.m. The workshop classes will be held at Judy’s Ronan studio. Cost of the class is $75 and includes all materials. For more information call 406-883-5956.
GLACIER PARK — Entry to Glacier National Park is free on Thursday, Aug. 25 in celebration of the National Park Service’s birthday.
outstanding, popular and well attended Indian National Finals Tour Rodeo will be held Aug. 24-26. This event draws Native American contestants from all over the U.S. and Canada to compete for over $50,000 in prize money and awards. The rodeo is a qualifying event for the INFR Finals, held in Las Vegas in November. Produced by KwaTaqNuk Resort & Casino and the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes, the large event features three days of rodeo action, food and beverage vendors, other vendors, large screen TV in the arena and live music each night after rodeo action. Be sure to put it on your schedule.
SATURDAY, AUG. 26
Mission Valley Superoval racing
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of the Legend Madness racing with Mod 4s, Legends and NW Pro 4 Trucks. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for children 8-15; children under 7 are free. Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. For more information call 406212-8159.
SUNDAY, AUG. 27
Pine Cone Classic
POLSON — The Flathead River Rodeo was voted the “Tour Rodeo of the Year” again by contestants in 2022. This
POLSON — The Pine Cone Classic is the Polson Bay Golf Course’s Club Championship and is open to any passholder. The even takes place from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 27. Go to: polsonbaygolf.com, for more information.
THURSDAY, AUG. 31
Sanders County Fair
PLAINS — The 2023 Sanders County Fair takes place from Aug. 31-Sept. 3, and includes three full nights of PRCA Rodeo performances, a demolition derby, carnival rides, and a wide variety of food and fun for the whole family. This year’s fair theme is “Blue Jeans and Country Dreams.”
SATURDAY, SEPT. 2
Shakespeare in the Parks
ST. IGNATIUS — Montana
Shakespeare in the Parks presents “The three Musketeers” from 5-7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 2, at the Good Old Days Park in St. Ignatius. Audiences are encouraged to arrive early with chairs, blankets and picnics. Visit: www.shakespeareintheparks. org for a full schedule. All performances are free.
First Saturday event to be held at Ninepipes Musuem
CHARLO — The Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana will once again hold “First
Saturday” artist events where featured artists, authors, photographers, musicians or crafts persons exhibit their work. The fifth event of the summer will take place on Saturday, Sept. 2. Check out the museum’s Facebook page and social media for updates on monthly featured artists.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 3
CHARLO — Shakespeare’s “Measure for Measure” will be performed on Saturday, Aug. 27, from 5-7 p.m. at
Palmer Park. Audiences are encouraged to arrive early with chairs, blankets and picnics. Categorized by scholars as one of Shakespeare’s “problem plays,” neither neat comedy nor tragedy, audiences will be captivated by the way this play explores themes of power, class dynamics, and justice through a modern and inclusive lens. Visit: www. shakespeareintheparks. org for a full schedule. All performances are free.
PLAINS — “Carnage on the Clark Fork” Demolition
Derby will take place at the Sanders County Fairgrounds on Sunday, Sept. 3, at 6 p.m. Go to: rodeoticket.com to purchase your seats.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 9
Racing held at Mission Valley Speedway Superoval
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of Late Models, Mod 4’s, Hornets, Legends, and NW Modifieds racing. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for children 8-15; children under 7 are free. Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. For more information call 406212-8159.
DAYTON — Dayton Daze, the annual fundraiser of the Chief Cliff VFD and QRU, will have a brand new format and will be held at the Chuck Wagon Bar
and Grill. A dinner, gun raffle and live music are planned. Call 406-360-8597 for more information.
MONDAY, SEPT. 11
Polson Pirate Invite
POLSON — The Polson Bay Golf Club will host the Polson Pirate Invite, an 18-hole high school golf tournament that closes the golf course and is held from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
‘Montana Spirit’ exhibit opens
POLSON — The Sandpiper Art Gallery & Gift Shop will hold a non-juried exhibit entitled, “Montana Spirit” from Sept. 11-Nov. 3. This show is open to all artists as an invitation to our community artists and members to show us your creative side.
Artistic interpretation of the theme, in any medium, will be considered for display. For information and instructions visit: sandpiperartgalleryandgifts. com
THURSDAY, SEPT. 14
MISSOULA — This year’s Senior Olympic games will be held in Missoula Sept. 1416. Events include archery, badminton, basketball, bowling, cornhole, cycling, golf, horseshoes, pickleball, racewalk, road race, shuffleboard, swimming, table tennis, track & field and tennis. 2023 competitors can begin registration on June 5, with the final day being Aug. 18. For more information go to: montana.fusesport.com or call 406-552-6684. All sports offered with the MT Senior Olympics, other than
horseshoes, are qualifying events for Nationals.
SATURDAY, SEPT. 16
POLSON — The Mission Valley Speedway Superoval, 1113 N. Reservoir Rd., is the site of Late Models, Mod 4’s, Hobby Stocks, Legends, and NW Modifieds racing. Admission is $12 for adults, $8 for children 8-15; children under 7 are free. Seniors 55 and older, military and first responders pay a $10 admission fee. Family (two adults, three kids) is $40 general admission. RV dry camping fee is $50 per one RV. Time trials begin at 6 p.m. and racing begins at 7 p.m. For more information call 406212-8159.
RONAN — The annual Ronan
Harvest Festival is on Saturday, Sept. 16. This family friendly event is a local favorite. A farmers market and craft fair, petting zoo, bounce house, games, food, beer, ‘Ask a Farmer’ booth, live music and so much more are planned. The perfect event to load a wagon, put on your jeans and a flannel and come hang out with your local community. Contact the Ronan Area Chamber of Commerce for more information at 406676-8300 or visit: www. ronanchamber.com
POLSON — Polson Bay Golf Course will host the Toys for Tots golf tournament on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. This tournament is open to all players. For more information call 406-883-8230 or email: polsonbaygolfcourse@gmail. com.
CASA Golf Scramble
POLSON — The CASA Scramble is an 18-hole, fourperson scramble benefiting CASA of Lake and Sanders Counties. This event will be held at the Polson Bay Golf Course on Sunday, Sept. 17. For more information call 406-883-8230 or email: polsonbaygolfcourse@gmail. com.
Elks Golf Tourney
POLSON — The Mission Valley Elks Tour will be held at the Polson Bay Golf Club on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 8 a.m.- 5 p.m. Go to polsonbaygolf.com for more information.
GLACIER PARK — In celebration of National Public Lands Day, Saturday, Sept. 23, is a fee-free day at all National Parks.
Pedal to Plate event
MISSION VALLEY — Join us Saturday, Sept. 23 for a scenic bike tour at the base of the Mission Mountains on the rolling pastoral roads of the Mission Valley. This year we’ll be riding a gorgeous route near Ronan. Along the way, riders will stop and visit four to six local, sustainable farms with local food bites offered at each stop. This year for the first time ever, we’re offering riders two route options: a 50mile route for those wishing to complete a half century, and a route that is slightly
SEE PAGE 60
“Tours & Tidbits” presentations at Salish Kootenai College
Info: 406-275-4983
Polson Farmers Market • Every Friday Morning in Downtown Polson
Info: polsonfarmersmarket.com
May 19
June 23-24
Ladies Night in Downtown Polson
Mission Mountain Rodeo @ Polson Fairgrounds
Info: polsonfairgroundsinc.com
June 30 Polson Chamber Blast @ Sporting Clays at Big Sky Clays
July 3 Polson 4th of July Fireworks Show @ Sunset
July 4 Polson 4th of July Parade in Downtown Polson
July 15 Live History Days @ Miracle of America Museum
Info: miracleofamericamuseum.com • 36094 Memory Lane
July 22-30
July 22-23
July 29-30
August 4
Lake County Fair @ Lake County Fairgrounds
Info: 406-676-8660
Flathead Lake Festival of the Arts
Info: sandpiperartgallery.com • Sacajawea Park
Flathead Cherry Festival
Flathead Lake Biological Station Open House
Info: flbs.umt.edu
August 12 Cruisin’ By The Bay Car Show in Downtown Polson
Info: andersonbroadcasting.com
52nd Annual Sandpiper Art Festival
Info: sandpiperartgallery.com • Polson Courthouse Lawn
August 24-26
INFR Flathead River Rodeo
Info: polsonfairgroundsinc.com
Oct. 27 Ladies Night in Downtown Polson
November 25
Small Business Saturday
Polson Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration
December Lights Under the Big Sky @ Lake County Fairgrounds
Info: bigskylights.org • First 3 Weekends in December
December 1 Polson’s Parade of Lights in Downtown Polson
Feb. 23-25, 2024
Flathead Lake International Cinemafest
Info: flicpolson.com • Showboat Stadium 6 • Downtown Polson
* For more information visit the Polson Chamber website: polsonchamber.com
less than 40 miles for those interested in shortening the ride. Live music at the endof-ride dinner will be provided by local favorites, JIMnI. Want to skip the miles and just join us for the live music, local food and cooperatively brewed beer? This year you can register for just the dinner. Register to ride MMAPP or buy a dinner ticket at: www. bikereg.com/mmapp. Save $10 and help us plan for the ride. We are offering an earlybird rate until July 1, of $75/ person. Registrations after July 1 are $85/each.
MONDAYS
POLSON — Mother Goose early learning time is from 9:15-10:15 a.m. on Mondays in the North Lake County Public Library’s temporary location, 301 16 th Ave. E (United Methodist Church building). The program is geared toward ages 0 to 3, but all are welcome. Parents are encouraged to participate with their children. Doors open at 9 a.m.
TUESDAYS
CHARLO — The Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana, 69316 U.S. Highway 93, is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tour groups by appointment only. Museum contents include displays of
hundreds of Western Plains Indian items that depict the past life of all the Tribes of Montana and surrounding states. All museum items are true artifacts and not reproductions. As the Flathead Reservation was opened to homesteaders, the displays also represent the life of cowboys and early settlers, the fur trade and the Blackrobe missionaries. Call 406-644-3435 or email: info@ ninepipesmuseum.org for additional information.
THURSDAYS
RONAN — The Ronan Farmers Market is held every Thursday until Oct. 12, from 3:30-6:30 p.m. at the Ronan Visitors’ Center on Highway 93. You
can shop online at: www. localline.ca/ronan-farmersmarket and pre-order and prepay, or go visit the market to see everything local vendors have to offer. For more information go to: facebook. com/ronanfarmersmarket
POLSON — North Lake County Public Library holds their Summer Reading Program with special programs, activities and guests every Thursday from 10-11 a.m. (some programs may go longer) at their temporary location, 301 16 th Ave. E (United Methodist Church building). All programs are geared toward preschool through school age children. Everyone is welcome to attend. These programs
begin Thursday, June 15, and continue each week through Thursday, Aug. 17.
ST. IGNATIUS — The Mission Falls Farmers Market opens at the Good Old Days Pavilion on June 4. Open on Fridays from 4:30-7:30 p.m., this great local spot allows the St. Ignatius community and beyond to gather and purchase Montanamade crafts, produce and food. The market is open until Sept. 29.
POLSON — The Polson Farmers Market, downtown at Third Ave. W (in front of the Cove Deli), is open from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Friday, May through October. The Polson
Farmers Market offers locally produced fresh vegetables, fruits, plants, cut flowers,
cheese, eggs, honey, jams and jellies, baked goods, meats and poultry, popsicles,
artwork, fabric and craft creations, woodworks, jewelry, and much more.
