Ellington

TERRY COLUMN: Rein in all-state teams

FOOTBALL: Glacier has 7 named Class AA first team all-state

Flathead has two on second team

The Glacier football team had seven players named Class AA first team all-state, capping a year that saw the Wolfpack finish 11-2 overall after a loss in the state championship game.

3 ways to turn discarded wood into beautiful home decor

Paleo Dark Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies

Our family is allergic to wheat, dairy and soy. So, what to do when you want a chocolate chip cookie? You go Paleo! We have lived the Paleo lifestyle for more than five years. This is one of our favorite recipes. I suggest mixing up the nuts to create a different favorite profile. If necessary, you […]

Man reports run-in with North Fork 'patrol'

A man was counseled by Flathead County Sheriff’s Office personnel after he drove from Polebridge to the department in Kalispell to complain that he had been stopped by a North Fork “patrol” person who was allegedly not really law enforcement. The man claimed the faux patrol person had stood in the middle of the road in order to get him to stop, and then had reached inside the person’s vehicle without permission.

Businesses look ahead after overtime rule blocked

Last month, Willie Hobbs and his co-owner at Great Northern Cycle and Ski in Whitefish were crunching numbers to figure out how they would be able to pay themselves on the budget they had set. This was in reaction to a new federal regulation on overtime that would more than double the threshold requiring employers to pay overtime to employees. Starting Dec. 1, everyone making less than $47,476 a year would have been entitled to overtime pay, up from the previous $23,660 a year threshold. 

Avalanche awareness classes planned

The Flathead Avalanche Center hosts a free avalanche awareness presentation today at Rocky Mountain Outfitter in Kalispell. The one-hour presentation begins at 6:30 p.m.

Relaxed regs assist strong whitetail harvest

Poor weather conditions didn’t stop hunters in Northwest Montana from bagging nearly 1,500 white-tailed deer during the general rifle season this year, with game check stations recording the highest harvest — both overall and in terms of bucks — in seven years.

Laid-off mill workers qualify for assistance

Laid-off Weyerhaeuser employees are now eligible to apply for federal benefits slotted for industry workers who lost their job as a result of international trade or competition.

Glacier Chorale

Governor proposes 10 percent budget cut for Highway Patrol

BOZEMAN (AP) — Gov. Steve Bullock’s budget proposal for the next two years includes a 10 percent cut for the Montana Highway Patrol — a $7.7 million reduction that would mean the loss of 27 jobs, most of them troopers.

Desmond Wesley McDonald, 90

Thomas Wyndham 'Wyn' Thomas, 89

Thomas Wyndham “Wyn” Thomas, a longtime resident of Kalispell, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2016, at the age of 89. 

Man charged with armed robbery in downtown Kalispell

A convicted felon is back behind bars, less than three months after he was released from federal prison, for allegedly committing an armed robbery in downtown Kalispell on Nov. 23. 

Bullock declares 'natural resource emergency' to boost invasive mussel response

Responding to growing evidence of invasive mussel contamination in Central Montana this month, Gov. Steve Bullock on Wednesday declared a “statewide natural resource emergency” to focus the state’s response to the issue.

snow 4.jpg

Frost and snow cover the trees at the top of Blacktail Mountain. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

snow 3.jpg

Max, a Labrador retreiver, plays in the snow at Blacktail Mountain on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Snow 2.jpg

Frost and snow cover the trees on top of Blacktail Mountain on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Patrick O'Connell.jpg

Glacier linebacker Patrick O'Connell (16) and cornerback Lance Dannic (23) celebrate after stopping Helena during the Wolfpack's semifinal victory at Legends Stadium. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

1201 SPO DIL Patrick O'Connell 2.jpg

Glacier linebacker Patrick O'Connell breaks up a pass to Helena's Matt Rispens during the Wolfpack's semifinal victory. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

10 smart swaps to make baking and cooking healthier

12 Gorgeous Pear Recipes to Impress Your Guests

Pears have always been one of my favorite fruits. I love pears because they’re elegant, sweet to the tastebuds, and make any dish look so much prettier. Whether you like your pears poached, or baked, in a fancy tart or a simple cake, there are options for you to choose from to serve at your party this […]

Hello Dolly Cookies

It isn’t Christmas at my house without the Hello Dolly Cookies. These are also known as seven layer bar cookies. These cookies are a family tradition. First, they were made by my grandmother and then my mom. Now, I enjoy baking them during the holidays. These cookies feature several layers that are packed with delicious ingredients! […]

Are you receiving the best care for your medical problem?

8 Chicken Dishes From Simply Baked to Simple Casseroles – Pick Your Favorites!

Chicken can be so versatile and made in so many ways, and in most cases is relatively inexpensive; so it’s nice to find new recipes all the time. Here are a few simple, timesaving chicken dishes that I have been making for years. All are family favorites and nice for company and potluck dinners as well. […]

Chewy Double Chocolate Candy Cane Cookies

This cookie is for the chocolate lover in your life.  We have loaded this cookie with chocolate and peppermint to create the perfect Christmas cookie recipe.  If you only try one new cookie recipe this season, this needs to be it! I have so much fun baking cookies each year, making new recipes makes it […]

Bob Schneller and the Civil Air Patrol

Montana Wing CAP Bob Schneller at the airport in Kalispell on Wednesday afternoon, November 30. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

25 Must Have Christmas Cookies

Christmas time is my absolute favorite time of the year. I truly struggle waiting to put up my decorations and you will likely hear Christmas music in my house by Labor Day. Last year my 6-year-old was still singing Christmas songs in March and I couldn’t help but giggle. She’s just like her mama. One […]

Who do you know that gives the most during the holidays?

This Week in the Flathead: A Christmas Story

4 tips to help keep your home warm, comfortable and energy efficient this winter

Exchange

The United States, Canadian and Montana flags flying near the Kalispell Center Mall on Friday. (Seaborn Larson/Daily Inter Lake)

Gerald Lloyd Glade

The best holiday gifts of 2016

Tips to make good nutrition a family affair in 2017

Winning the fight against the dropout rate one student at a time

Protecting your health: Survey shows diabetic patients often skip important eye examinations

New Lakeside pedestrian trail 'all about safety'

It’s a small trail, but one the community of Lakeside has been looking forward to for five years.

Judge tells man to accept responsibility for child's injuries

Flathead District Judge David Ortley told a 26-year-old man to accept responsibility for injuries he allegedly caused a young child in 2014. 

One-weekend DIY projects to get your house relative-ready for the holidays

Inter Lake Daybook for Wednesday

Sen. Tester to hold Facebook town hall

Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., tonight will host his first online town hall meeting via Facebook Live, where he will take questions and comments from constituents through Facebook and Twitter.

New pedestrian trail 'all about safety'

It’s a small trail, but one the community of Lakeside has been looking forward to for five years.

Maintenance man mistaken for bank burglar

A pedestrian on told a Whitefish police officer they had seen a man trying to break into a local bank. The officer found the man, who was actually a janitor at the bank. 

Attorney: Oil patch murderer needs treatment, not prison

BILLINGS (AP) — A defense attorney says a mentally-disabled Colorado man serving 100 years in prison for killing a Montana teacher should be transferred to the custody of state mental health officials.

Senate OK's bill to improve rural health care

The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan bill Tuesday that could expand access to specialty health care for rural patients in states like Montana where services are often scattered.

Kalispell closing in on short-term rental ordinance

The short-term rental debacle is coming to a close for the city of Kalispell, as officials set their sights on regulations they hope will please all parties involved. 

Violent offender admits to not registering, again

A violent offender admitted on Nov. 22 to not registering with authorities as required by law. 

Newspaper: Butte citizens have lost faith in Superfund talks

HELENA (AP) — Confidential Superfund settlement negotiations to clean up a century's worth of mining waste in Butte need to be opened to the public because residents have lost faith that the U.S. government will protect their interests, an attorney for a Montana newspaper said Tuesday.

Open-burning season ends

Open-burning season ends today at 5 p.m. in Flathead and northern Lake counties.

Lawmakers consider tax on medical marijuana

BILLINGS (AP) — Montana lawmakers will be asked to consider placing a tax on the sale of medical marijuana.

Pipeline protest arrests strain North Dakota's court system

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The hundreds of arrests during the months of protests against the Dakota Access oil pipeline in North Dakota have created an unprecedented burden for the state’s court system, which faces huge cost overruns and doesn’t have enough judges, lawyers and clerks to handle the workload.

Hockaday Museum of Art announces People's Choice Award winners

Linda L. Olsen’s watercolor painting “Wired” is the winner of the Hockaday Museum of Art’s People’s Choice Award, selected by a vote of more than 330 visitors to the annual Members’ Salon exhibit.

Frances A. Combs, 78

Willie Frances Alexander Combs, 78, of Fortine, was called home Nov. 24, 2016. She was born Aug.13, 1938, to Wilson Forrest Alexander and Lela May Daniels at the family home in Luling, Texas.

Deanie B. Witty, 77

David Lynn Strandberg, 59

Robert H. Hills, 86

Robert “Harold” Hills, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016, with his wife, Jeanie, at his side. He was 86.

Gerald Lloyd Glade, 85

John Leo Desjardins, 73

A celebration of life service for John Leo Desjardins, 73, who died Nov. 21, will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Jehovah Witnesses Hall at 1414 Woodland Ave. Kalispell.

Horace W. 'Bill' Driver, 94

Horace W. “Bill” Driver, 94, passed on Nov. 6, 2016, surrounded by family in Billings, due to natural causes.

OPINION: The North Fork numbers don't lie

LETTER: Back to Montana

LETTER: Did they walk to the protest?

LETTER: An amused look at Election 2016

Lakeside Trail

Muffie Thomson, the director and treasurer of the Lakeside Community Development Foundation, stands on the bridge of the Lakeside Trail on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Vernon Anderson's "Lake Five"

THIRD-PLACE (tie) selection "Lake Five" by Vernon Anderson. (Courtesy photo)

Rob Akey's "Montana Homestead"

THIRD-PLACE (tie) selection "Montana Homestead" by Rob Akey. (Courtesy photo)

Ron Ukrainetz's "Gold in the Fall"

SECOND-PLACE selection "Gold in the Fall" by Ron Ukrainetz. (Courtesy photo)

Linda Olsen's "Wired"

FIRST-PLACE winner "Wired" by Linda L. Olsen. (Courtesy photo)

Preparing for the annual 8th annual multi-denominational Christmas Celebration

Melanie Labrum of Kalispell adds ornaments to a tree in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Whitefish Stage in Kalispell as the church prepares for the eighth annual multi-denominational Christmas Celebration. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

New air conditioner/heating unit installed

For two days teams from FICO, Central and Harmon Crane have worked together to install a new air conditioner/heating unit at the Daily Inter Lake in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Evergreen shooting under investigation

A 33-year-old Evergreen man was taken by ambulance to Kalispell Regional Medical Center Monday evening with non-life-threatening injuries after he was shot in the hip at his residence on Sleepy Hollow Drive, according to Flathead Sheriff Chuck Curry.

4 Tips for Better Sleep

DIL 112016 Cover

Ranger district requests comments on project

The Hungry Horse-Glacier View Ranger District is requesting comments on the management activities proposed in the Hungry Lion Resource Management Project. The proposed activities are available for review and public comment through Dec. 21. The district is hosting an open house on Thursday, Dec. 8, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Hungry Horse Ranger Station, 10 Hungry Horse Drive in Hungry Horse, to share information on the project and invite public comment.

5 fun ways to make holiday memories with your child

Hispanos al frente de las tendencias digitales

Hispanics at the forefront of digital banking trends

Holiday Gift Guides: Gifts For A Coffee Addict

If you are an adult, it’s almost guaranteed that you’re addicted to caffeine.  Being an adult (or, as the kids say it, #adulting) is exhausting, and since it’s not socially acceptable to drink alcohol all day long, we spend hours each day sipping on a steady stream of caffeine to keep us awake and functioning, […]

Teacher uses Beatles music to inspire students

If it wasn’t for a Beatles performance on the Ed Sullivan Show, Peterson Elementary School music teacher Paul Lovett may not have picked up a guitar as a second-grader in 1967. He also wouldn’t be teaching Beatles hits to second- through fifth-graders today.

Senior Center fundraiser begins

It’s a Wrap

As kids line up to see Santa Claus at the Kalispell Center Mall, a few people in the background will be wrapping presents to go under the tree this season.

Kalispell woman charged for allegedly aiding fugitive

A Kalispell woman has been charged with a felony for allegedly hindering officers’ attempts to apprehend an escaped criminal.

Woman sentenced beyond plea deal after fifth DUI

Flathead District Court Judge Amy Eddy went beyond the bounds of a plea agreement on Wednesday and gave a longer sentence to a woman who admitted to drinking with two and three times the legal limit of alcohol in her blood in two felony DUI cases that occurred within days of each other in July.

Maintaining heart health around the holidays

Whitefish wants input on U.S. 93 corridor plan

A plan to rezone 490 acres of land along the U.S. 93 corridor outside of Whitefish city limits has prompted the city of Whitefish to schedule a public hearing Monday to provide more public feedback on the proposed corridor plan.

Man wanted on rape charges arrested in Whitefish

A man wanted on a $150,000 arrest warrant for allegedly raping a woman has been arrested.

Eureka, C-Falls, Polson, gridders dominate all-state teams

State high school football champion Eureka and playoff participants Columbia Falls and Polson dominate the all-state and all-conference player honors for their respective leagues in balloting by coaches.

Woman disgusted by decapitated carcass

Someone on Waverly Place reported seeing a decapitated giant elk or deer hanging from a second-floor balcony and was concerned that it was going to “attract varmints and bears,” and “that it is just plain disgusting,” according to the

Frances 'Fran' Belik Bowker, 93

Frederic John 'Fred' Hook, 77

Frederick John 'Fred' Hook, 77

On Thanksgiving afternoon, Nov. 24, 2016, at home in Yuma, Arizona, Fred passed peacefully with his wife, son, niece, nephew and their spouses near him.

Beatlemania

Peterson music teacher Paul Lovett leads a class of fifth-graders as they sing "Help!" by The Beatles in music class on Tuesday.

Woman injured in Kalispell shooting

A 39-year-old woman shot in the upper thigh on Sunday evening had what appeared to be non-life-threatening injuries, according to a press release issued Monday by the Kalispell Police Department.

Lolita Zinke appointed to President-elect Trump's VA team

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Lolita Zinke, wife of U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Montana, on Tuesday was appointed to President-elect Donald Trump’s Veterans Administration landing team. In this role she will assess the agency top to bottom in order to identify opportunities for overhaul and improvement during the first 100 days of the forthcoming presidential administration.

It's a Wrap

DJ Lopez, left, and Chessica Koprovich volunteer at the Gift Wrapping table in the Kalispell Center Mall on Monday afternoon, Nov. 28.

Babbling Brook

A creek that flows into Lake McDonald catches the last rays of sunset on Saturday evening, November 26, in Glacier National Park. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Bigfork family provides largest donation in UM history

A Bigfork family’s name will adorn the University of Montana’s forestry school building after the Frankes donated $24 million — the university’s largest gift to date.

Bigfork bridge repair options discussed at open house

The Montana Department of Transportation and Flathead County are in the final stages of determining how to keep Bigfork’s iconic, yet decaying, Swan River Bridge.

Auditions for 'Murder on the Nile' Dec. 2 and 3

The Bigfork Community Players are seeking approximately six men and six women to act in “Murder on the Nile,” their winter production.

Sick of being sick? 5 tips to getting better and kicking that cold to the curb

Ask Carrie: What Will You Do For Giving Tuesday?

Dear Readers, While Black Friday and Cyber Monday may kick off the holiday buying frenzy, to me one of the best days of the season is Giving Tuesday. And apparently a lot of other people think so too. Inaugurated in 2012 and celebrated on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, this international day of giving kicks off […]

Probation officer reflects on 'blessed' life

On Friday, his last day of work as a probation and parole officer, there was one set of words Paul Parrish kept repeating over and over again.

Time-saving tips so parents can have a little break

Important safety steps to keep kids' holidays bright, happy and burn-free

Council to review final pieces of short-term rental regulations

The Kalispell City Council tonight will revisit regulations on short-term vacation rentals, specifically who can operate them and how to define density limitations.

Peterson Elementary students meet for morning choir

Outlet for expression

At 8 a.m. Tuesday dozens of students were warming up with some rhythm exercises to pack in some singing before school started at Peterson Elementary.

Swan Lake netting yields no new walleye

While invasive mussel discoveries worry the state’s fisheries experts, Swan Lake provided a small ray of sunshine after Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ annual lake-trout netting program was completed last month with no new walleye caught in the popular fishery.

Complaint prompts hearing over portable toilet storage

A complaint over the storage of portable toilets at North Valley Refuse is the impetus for a conditional-use permit request that will be considered Dec. 6 by the Flathead County Board of Adjustment.

Woman sentenced for three felonies

A woman has been placed with the Montana Department of Corrections for five years for a handful of crimes in Flathead Valley.

Love Lives Here plans 'Celebrate the Light' event

Love Lives Here, a local nonprofit organization committed to creating a caring, open, accepting and diverse community, will hold a “Celebrate the Light” gathering at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, at 100 Central Ave. in Whitefish during the community’s annual Christmas Stroll.

Man charged with construction trailer theft

A Flathead County man already in jail for two felony charges has been charged with a third after he allegedly stole more than $15,000 worth of construction gear.

Friendly dog reunited with owner

Someone found a “very friendly” dog wandering on Baker Avenue and took the pooch to the

Kalispell woman denies stealing from employer

A Kalispell woman has pleaded not guilty to two felony charges filed for allegedly stealing more than $40,000 from her employer.

Whitefish housing study results to be unveiled Dec. 5

Whitefish business owners, managers, employees and the public are invited to attend to attend a meeting on Dec. 5 to hear the results of a housing needs assessment aimed at helping Whitefish address the issue of affordable housing.

Whitefish City Council approves hot tub, various rezoning ordinances

Whitefish City Council on Nov. 21:

Monday Profile: Paul Parrish

Paul Parrish is retiring as a probation officer after 35 years of service.

LETTER: Confederate flag is always bad

LETTER: Satire or sadistic?

LETTER: Maybe church just needs to change its ways

LETTER: Clinton voters give serious cause for concern

OPINION: Sweet land of liberty not really home to conservatives

OPINION: Air ambulance billing problems must be solved

High-density growth allowed west of Kalispell

Kalispell’s housing boom continues to expand each year, and with Monday’s change in the city growth policy, some of that growth will be happening west of town. 

OPINION: Religious persecution in Middle East

Why isn’t anyone doing anything about it?

EDITORIAL: Eureka! Local teams are golden

OPINION: Born and raised a Montana environmentalist

Judge tells clashing couple to stay apart

Flathead District Court Judge Amy Eddy told a couple on Wednesday that she did not want the pair to have any contact with each other as they go through the court process facing allegations they got to a drunken argument, crashed vehicles into each other and fired shots in a residential neighborhood. 

Antique negatives bring early Flathead history to life

More than 1,000 photographic glass plate negatives left in storage for decades are starting to give shape to the life, art and humor of early Montana settlers who created homes on the northern edge of Flathead Lake. 

Cauliflower craze won't affect lefse production

Now hear this, foodies. There is no way cauliflower is ever going to taste like mashed potatoes, rice or pizza crust, in my humble opinion.

Canadian exchange rate remains low, but leveling out

As the Black Friday shopping flood drains from the Flathead this weekend, the local retail and hospitality industries are gauging how much Canadian traffic to expect this winter.

Man charged in construction theft

A Kalispell man has been charged with felony theft for allegedly stealing $22,000 worth of construction equipment from a local businessman. 

Kalispell man denies seventh DUI charge

A Kalispell man pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to an alleged seventh instance of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

Postal Service will send letters to Santa Claus

The U.S. Postal Service’s Letters from Santa Program offers families an opportunity to have their children receive a letter from Santa, complete with a North Pole postmark.

Military training groups land in the Flathead Valley

A pair of military training groups is building a presence in the Flathead Valley. One has already landed, purchased land and is ready to roll. The other is following suit, a much larger operation ready to make its first footprint in the valley.

Boarding house proposed for seasonal workforce

A plan has emerged to convert the former Whitefish Independent High School building into a boarding house for seasonal workers in the hospitality industry.

COLUMN: Don't assault Constitution over partisan complaints

'Tis the season for family-owned Christmas tree business

Thanksgiving turkey and dressing are already distant memories for the Rogers family. It’s Christmas tree season and they’re in the thick of it now until Christmas Eve.

Man involved in DUI crash gets 30 days in jail

A man was sentenced on Wednesday to five years probation and 30 days in jail for a drinking and driving accident that left a woman severely injured. 

Margaret Alice Shirts, 98

Margaret Alice Shirts, 98, of Salem, Oregon, formerly Kalispell, passed away peacefully on the evening of Nov. 15, 2016, at Salem Hospital in the companionship of her daughter and granddaughter. Her family and close friends encompassed her with their love and support in her final days. With unwavering faith in her Lord, she looked forward to flying with the angels in heaven. 

Dad unhappy with alleged pot usage

A father called for advice from Whitefish Police after his teenage daughter allegedly admitted to smoking pot while under the care of her mother. The man wondered if he should get a drug test for the girl. 

Livingston hunting guide recounts killing charging grizzly

LIVINGSTON (AP) — Justin Souza says he didn’t even know the big beast was there — that is, not until he saw a cloud of warm breath rising from a seemingly anonymous mound of earth.

Inter Lake Daybook for Sunday

TODay

Kalispell Regional touts 'revolutionary' heart procedure

Cardiac specialists at Kalispell Regional Medical Center are the first doctors in Northwest Montana to perform a heart valve replacement procedure that circumvents open-heart surgery. 

Facility plans mulled for Muldown Elementary

A community forum will be held Thursday, Dec. 1, to discuss facility plans for Muldown Elementary School in Whitefish.

LAW ROUNDUP: Please don't play Pokemon in traffic

Bigfork bridge repair options discussed at open house

The Montana Department of Transportation and Flathead County are in the final stages of determining how to keep Bigfork’s iconic, yet decaying, Swan River Bridge. 

Richard 'Dick' W. Keniston, 83

Kenneth Sigurd Mattson, 86

Woman charged with using counterfeit bills

A Kalispell woman was arrested last week on a $15,000 warrant for allegedly passing counterfeit bills at several locations in the Flathead Valley. 

Fidel Castro, 2016

In this April 19, 2016 file photo, Fidel Castro attends the last day of the 7th Cuban Communist Party Congress in Havana, Cuba. Fidel Castro formally stepped down in 2008 after suffering gastrointestinal ailments and public appearances have been increasingly unusual in recent years. Cuban President Raul Castro has announced the death of his brother Fidel Castro at age 90 on Cuban state media on Friday, Nov. 25, 2016. (Ismael Francisco/Cubadebate via AP, File)

Fidel Castro, 1957

In this March 14, 1957 file photo, Fidel Castro, the young anti-Batista guerrilla leader, center, is seen with his brother Raul Castro, left, and Camilo Cienfuegos, right, while operating in the Mountains of Eastern Cuba. Cuban President Raul Castro has announced the death of his brother Fidel Castro at age 90 on Cuban state media on Friday, Nov. 25, 2016. (AP Photo/Andrew St. George, File)

Bullock proposes using state wildfire fund for other efforts

BOZEMAN (AP) — Gov. Steve Bullock is looking to Montana’s wildfire suppression fund to help make up budget shortfalls caused by the state’s declining revenues.

Teen sentenced for Flathead High vandalism

Flathead District Judge Amy Eddy imposed a six-month deferred sentence Wednesday for a former student convicted of a felony in a case of extensive vandalism at Flathead High School. 

Administrator of state public defender's office resigns

BILLINGS (AP) — The new chief administrator for the Office of the State Public Defender has resigned, saying he was meeting “palpable resistance” from program managers as he tried to cut costs to help the agency make up a $3.5 million budget shortfall.

Woman sentenced for role in Arlee murder

Family members of an 18-year-old man who was murdered and hidden in an Arlee trailer this spring were in tears Wednesday as a Western Montana woman received a partially suspended sentence for her role in concealing the killing. 

Puppy reading program a hit with Elrod students

First-graders were preparing to transition into silent reading in Elrod Elementary teacher Tiffany Strauss’ classroom last week. After going over the routine of picking three to four books, Strauss told the excited children to grab their puppies.

Kenneth Sigurd Mattson

Richard 'Dick' W. Keniston

Northwest Ballet Co.

Northwest Ballet Company principals (from left) Alexis Faulk, Olivia Ogle and Stephanie Smith. (Trevon Baker Photography)

Daybook for Saturday

-Christmas at the Fairgrounds, today and Sunday, Expo Building, Flathead County Fairgrounds, Kalispell. Local arts and crafts, unique gifts and decor. Food and beverages available. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free admission and parking.

Benefit show planned for Samaritan House director

Fellow musicians are coming together to raise money for Chris Krager by hosting a benefit show from 6 to 9 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 27, at the Craggy Range in downtown Whitefish.

Teen cited for allegedly running over toddler on Thanksgiving

A teen driver has been cited with negligent homicide and failure to remain at the scene of a death after he allegedly ran over a 3-year-old child in Northwood Trailer Park in Pablo.

Black Friday.jpg

Haley O'Brien shops with her 1-year-old daughter Callie at Target on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Black Friday 2.jpg

Jeff Potter and Best Buy's Joel Vowes load Potter's new TV into his car at Best Buy on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

List growing for Small Business Saturday

The Small Business Saturday event is growing with gusto.

FJ 11/21/16 Cover

TWIF 11/25/16 Cover

TWIF 11/25/16

25 Awesome Gifts For Everyone Under $100

Over the next few weeks, you’re going to be bombarded with gift guides from everywhere (including here!)—their presence screaming, “HURRY!  YOU DON’T HAVE MUCH TIME TO FIND THE PERFECT GIFT FOR LITERALLY EVERY PERSON THAT YOU LOVE!”  Talk about pressure. You click on a gift guide that guarantees perfect suggestions for things that “mom” will […]

Proposed river regs would limit motor boats

The use of motorized watercraft on many popular rivers and creeks throughout Montana would be substantially limited under a batch of proposed regulations based on a petition approved by the state Fish and Wildlife Commission earlier this year.

New cookbook benefits Creston Fire Department

‘The Hungry Fork’

There are 548 recipes in Louise Tidwell’s new cookbook and she’s made all of them except one — a recipe for homemade vinegar.

Flathead residents give holiday boost to Standing Rock protest

After collecting about $4,000 worth of donations, tepees, cold-weather clothing and other gear, Whitefish environmental educator Brett Holmquist set off Tuesday across Montana to spend Thanksgiving at the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation in North Dakota.

Soroptimists participate in global initative against gender-based violence

Soroptimist International of Whitefish is tapping into an international campaign that will shine the spotlight on gender-based violence.

LETTER: Don't 'report' on liberal reactions to the election

LETTER: Letter writer not backing down

LETTER: Church should follow its rules

LETTER: Confederate flag part of history

LETTER: Open letter to the Beautiful People

EDITORIAL: Shop local on Small Biz Saturday

Mailbox and post found, returned

A 12th Avenue West resident called the

Clarice L. Amundsen, 81

Clarice L. Amundsen was born Dec. 2, 1934, in Pittsville, Wisconsin, to Glendine and Hamer Rose. She passed away from natural causes, heart and lung issues, on Oct. 16, 2016, while surrounded by family at the Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Standing with Standing Rock

Small Business Saturday

Rose Mountain Floral manager Brooke Walsh takes a phone order on Wednesday as she prepares the shop for the big consumer's weekend ahead.

Valley snow in forecast for Sunday

A cold-weather system is expected to finally bring seasonal temperatures and snow to Northwest Montana by the end of this weekend, according to the National Weather Service in Missoula.

LETTER: Thanks and farewell to Gene Speelman

LETTER: A thankful letter

Ring the Bells

Hearing one lone person, playing just two different notes, isn’t much of a musical experience.

Whitefish siblings participate in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will celebrate its 90th event today in New York City. As the balloons, floats and performers prepare to take over Manhattan, a pair of Whitefish siblings are leading the way.

EDITORIAL: George Washington's words still relevant today

This Week in the Flathead | Nov. 24-30

Valley Voices Choir to sing at Carnegie Hall

Ask the members of the Valley Voices choir which performance venue is their favorite and it’s hard to find a consensus.

$90M in tax credits goes to Montana and Idaho

The Montana and Idaho Community Development Corporation last week received $90 million in new market tax credits allocated from the U.S. Treasury Department, the largest allocation ever received by the dual-state organization. Previously, the largest allocation made to Montana and Idaho CDC was $65 million. 

Someone's got mail, but not the right someone

Wild Rose Tree Lot

A collection of wreaths on display at the Wild Rose. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Uptown Hearth

Kendra Hope bakes fresh bread at Uptown Hearth on Wednesday, November 16, in Columbia Falls. They have switched to their winter hours and are currently open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursday, and Fridays. However, on Friday, December 2, they'll extend their hours for the Night of Lights parade and in the evening they'll be joined by Azul Coffee Bar. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Brix Bottle Shop

Portrait Karen Sanderson in Brix Bottle Shop in downtown Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Bottleshop boosted in new Main Street location

Jerry Meerkatz

Jerry Meerkatz in August was named president and CEO of MWED and FCEDA. He's since been spending time learning about the organizations' big projects on hand, as well as developing a schedule of programs to assist area businesses. (Seaborn Larson/Daily Inter Lake)

Q & A with new Montana West Economic Development president Jerry Meerkatz

jerry meerkatz interview

New Eureka plant manufacturing fireproof house panels

New dog resort and spa offers deluxe digs

MudMan opens second burger joint in Columbia Falls

6 tech features that can make the holidays more manageable

Doreen 'Dodi' Sharon Michels, 66

Firebrand Hotel

State political commissioner rules Fish, Wildlife and Parks violated ethics code

Montana’s chief political regulator on Tuesday found the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks responsible for three code-of-ethics violations, after the agency allowed a political committee to use public resources in its 2014 opposition to a ballot initiative to ban trapping on public lands.

Rooftop hot tub OK'd for Whitefish hotel

The Firebrand Hotel in downtown Whitefish will get its rooftop hot tub after all.

5 tips to protect your devices from cybercrime

Louise Tidwell: 'The Hungry Fork'

Louise Tidwell in her kitchen with the newly published cookbook she has worked on for seven years. The book has hundreds of recipes and the proceeds from the sales will be donated to the Creston Fire Department.

Valley snow forecast for Sunday

A cold-weather system is expected to finally bring seasonal temperatures and snow to Northwest Montana by the end of this weekend, according to the National Weather Service in Missoula.

5 tips to prepare the bath for winter

Matthew G. 'Ricky' Riley, 88

Martha E. Odegaard, 82

Dorothy J. Flint, 102

LAW ROUNDUP: Wascally wabbits wear out welcome

Happy Valley robbery accomplice sentenced for not registering

A frequent felony offender is possibly headed back to federal prison to serve the rest of his sentence for a 2011 armed robbery in Happy Valley. 

Turkey hunting opportunities abound

Hunters in Montana have no shortage of opportunities this year to bag a last-minute turkey before Thanksgiving — or as many as seven, if you’re willing to do some traveling.

Montana elector, age 92, under fire for anti-gay comments

BILLINGS (AP) — A 92-year-old man casting one of Montana's electoral votes has been criticized for his comments about gay people.

DIL 111316 Cover

Feds deny Montana request to delay driver's license law

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana residents won’t be allowed to use their driver’s licenses to access military bases, nuclear power plants and federal facilities starting Jan. 30, and they’ll need another form of identification to board commercial aircraft a year after that, federal officials said Tuesday.

Traditional Kalispell Christmas parade moved to Dec. 10

In an effort to allow local families and friends the chance to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday together, the annual Christmas parade in downtown Kalispell is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 10, at 5 p.m. on Main Street.

Kalispell works to define limits on vacation rentals

Kalispell City Council will stretch the discussion on vacation rentals a little longer as it looks to withstand the risk of dense rental commercialization in the city.

Possible mussel detection in Missouri River

Preliminary test results have indicated another possible detection of mussel larvae south of Canyon Ferry Reservoir in the Missouri River, although additional lab work is needed to confirm the detection.

LETTER: Please don't hit your children

LETTER: Liberals need to get over it

LETTER: Science supports evolution

LETTER: Trump makes world safe for flim-flammery?

LETTER: 'Three Simple Rules' to live by

Dorothy J. Flint

Matthew G. 'Ricky' Riley

Bigfork school computers breached

Bigfork School District will not submit to ransom demands after the district’s computer network was compromised over the weekend by ransomware.

Outlet for expression

Kacie Bray leading a choir in practice on Tuesday morning, Nov. 22, at Peterson Elementary in Kalispell.

Montana Life: Glass Slides at the Museum at Central School

Photo by Matt Eccles. These images show one of Eccles negatives and what a print from the negative could look like.

Thanksgiving Day snowstorm targets Lincoln County

Forecasters with the National Weather Service are warning that a winter storm is likely to bring up to half a foot of snow to parts of Lincoln County on Thanksgiving.

5 budgeting tips to host a spirited, not spendy holiday party

Class B Football Championship

Turkeys.jpg

A group of tom turkeys lead the hens away near Whitefish Mountain Resort on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Eureka Championship.jpg

Eureka Championship 22.jpg

Eureka Championship 19.jpg

Eureka Championship 18.jpg

Eureka Championship 17.jpg

Eureka Championship 16.jpg

Eureka Championship 15.jpg

Eureka Championship 14.jpg

Eureka Championship 13.jpg

Eureka Championship 12.jpg

Eureka Championship 11.jpg

Eureka Championship 10.jpg

Eureka Championship 9.jpg

Eureka Championship 8.jpg

Eureka Championship 7.jpg

Eureka Championship 6.jpg

Eureka Championship 5.jpg

Eureka Championship 4.jpg

Eureka Championship 3.jpg

Eureka Championship 2.jpg

Valley Voices

Abigail Nase, center, Ellen Wright, and members of the Valley Voices rehearsing on Monday evening, November 21, at Flathead High School in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

3 tips to prevent common holiday injuries

When it's not just the flu: Kids with Type 1 diabetes often misdiagnosed due to the rapid onset of common symptoms

Flathead Lake home lost in Sunday fire

A home outside of Rollins on Flathead Lake is in ruins after a fire erupted late Sunday night. 

Creating desirable jobs by getting back to the basics

Norovirus on the rise in Flathead County

Cases of a stomach bug causing diarrhea and vomiting from norovirus have appeared in local assisted and long-term care facilities, according to the Flathead City-County Health Department. With Thanksgiving just a couple of days away, health officials are worried time with family could put people with underlying health conditions at risk if the illness is ignored.

Patients seek immediate re-opening of pot dispensaries

HELENA (AP) — Medical marijuana advocates and patients are asking a judge to fix a mistake in a voter-approved ballot initiative that inadvertently delayed the re-opening of shuttered pot dispensaries in Montana by eight months.

Gifts that say 'yum': A foodie holiday wish list

Bigfork family provides largest donation in UM history

A Bigfork family’s name will adorn the University of Montana’s forestry school building after the Frankes donated $24 million — the university’s largest gift to date.

Area food banks get boost from foundation

The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation recently announced a special holiday donation of $203,500 to food banks, food pantries, rescue missions and homeless shelters across Montana. The five Northwest Montana counties that will benefit from the donation are Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, Sanders and Mineral counties.

Rollins fire

Mountain lion harvest quota met

Mountain lion hunting will close Tuesday, Nov. 22, one half-hour after sunset, in Montana Hunting District 132 after Fish, Wildlife and Parks announced Monday the harvest quota has been met.

LAW ROUNDUP: Woman's struggle with alcohol goes public

William 'Bill”' J. Beirne Jr., 73

Franke family

Bill and Carolyn Franke and their family visit the UM campus to celebrate their gift with the University community.

Collision of the Bypass

A south bound vehicle struck a Kalispell Police Officer as he prepared to make a U-turn to pursue a speeding north bound driver. The collision happened around 6 p.m. on Monday night, November 21. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

William 'Bill' J. Beirne Jr.

Chris Krager

Samaritan House Executive Director Chris Krager stands outside in the morning sunlight on Monday, Nov. 21. Krager fell off a ladder and had to undergo surgery on his spine. He is back to work, but still recovering.

Somers Sunrise

A cloudy sunrise over Flathead Lake on Monday morning, November 21, from the Somers Beach area. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Street in Hungry Horse renamed in honor of Brad Treat

Family, friends and coworkers from various agencies turned out for the revealing of the new street signs dedicated to Brad Treat of the U.S. Forest Service. Treat was killed by a grizzly bear in June near Glacier National Park. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

This Week in the Flathead: The Alpine Ringers Handbell Choir

Karen Leftwich focuses intensely as she plays the largest bells in the Alpine Ringers handbell choir as they practice on Monday, Nov. 14, at the First Presbyterian Church in Whitefish. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

A guide to holiday traditions worth starting in 2016

Modern desktops: Re-imagining the workhorses of personal computing

Daybook for Monday, Nov. 21, 2016

Ask Carrie: Mindful Spending: Can You Resist The Black Friday Hype?

Dear Readers, As Black Friday looms ahead of us, I can’t help but think that the race to spend is on. At least that’s what retailers hope is happening. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), it’s expected that retail sales will total $655.8 billion this November and December, up 3.6 percent from last year. […]

Egan Slough expansion rejected

The Flathead County Commissioners on Monday nixed one of the strategies being pursued by opponents of a proposed water bottling facility near Creston, unanimously rejecting a proposal to expand the Egan Slough Zoning District.

FJ 11/21/16

Communication, not silence, is golden for men battling prostate cancer

Tips for finding unique health and wellness gifts for the holidays, no stress included

5 steps for happy holiday spending

Helping nonprofits navigate the art of giving

Fostering philanthropy

One of the most important tenets Chany Reon Ockert strives to convey to the nonprofit organizations she helps is that fundraising is not begging for money.

FVCC course focuses on the human body's dominance factors

Hunched over in a Kalispell coffee shop, Carla Hannaford drew a rough outline of a person’s body in her notebook and began a series of questions:

Whitefish City Council vote expected on hotel hot tub

A final decision is expected tonight on the Firebrand Hotel’s quest to install a rooftop hot tub.

Kalispell council considers land-use change

A request to change the future land-use designation on 30 acres of land near the intersection of Stillwater Road and Four Mile Drive is the focus of a public hearing before the Kalispell City Council tonight.

Flathead legislators selected for leadership positions

Several legislators from Northwest Montana have been tapped for leadership and committee chair positions in the 2017 Montana Legislature, following the Republican and Democratic caucuses last week.

Man was just trying to borrow money

A man in a trench coat was allegedly banging on doors at a residential complex on Eighth Avenue West, and a caller told the

Sen. Bob Keenan

Gift Guide

DIL 112016

Tolerance is easier to preach than practice

OPINION: Bishop was elected using open and democratic process

LETTER: Letter set world record for bashing Obama

LETTER: Flag photo promotes idea of divisiveness

OPINION: 'Anything goes' in new Methodist Church?

LETTER: Stunned to see photo including Confederate flag

LETTER: Politically motivated resignation not really news

LETTER: Epic rant reveals left's willingness to destroy U.S.

Skijoring championships planned for Lakeside

A new skijoring event has been added to the Flathead Valley’s winter outdoor itinerary and will take place Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 on a private airstrip at The Lakeside Club in Lakeside.

LETTER: 'Liberal lament' really just more socialist dogma

OPINION: Touched by the news included in veterans tribute

Flathead Basin Commission pushes for more boating closures

YELLOW BAY — A group tasked with protecting the aquatic resources of the Flathead River drainage is urging state officials to close the Canyon Ferry and Tiber reservoirs to all boats as evidence mounts that both of the Central Montana water bodies now harbor invasive mussels.

Consequences of invasive mussels could prove costly

A tiny mollusk could have massive ecological and economic implications in Montana, which earlier this month became the latest state in the U.S. to confirm the long-feared presence of invasive mussels.

EDITORIAL: Fighting back against invasive species

OPINION: Lesson from political 'has-bins': Stay open-minded

Floyd Elmer Grigg, 75

Floyd Elmer Grigg, 75, a longtime resident of Columbia Falls passed away on Nov. 16, 2016.

Elvira M. 'Marie' Keller Heide, 72

Elvira M. “Marie” Heide passed away Nov. 16, 2016, at the Bland-Bekkedal Center for Hospice in Viroqua, Wisconsin.

Gene Richard Speelman, 72

Gene Richard Speelman, 72, passed peacefully at his home in Evergreen on Nov. 8, 2016.

Tammey Jo (Nix) Stremel Blinco, 56

Tammey Jo (Nix) Stremel Blinco, 56, of Kalispell, passed away at home on Aug. 16, 2016, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Mistakes sink C-Falls in Class A football final with Dillon

COLUMBIA FALLS — Dillon’s Troy Anderson had four touchdowns, including one on defense, as the Beavers bested Columbia Falls 34-17 in the Class A state football championship game on Saturday.

Class B final: Eureka stuns Loyola on Hail Mary

MISSOULA — Eureka head football coach Trevor Utter had just one word for this one: “unbelievable.”

LETTER: Resist anger and build for a better future

LETTER: Commissioners finally need to take a stand - What will it be?

LETTER: The bears don't want you to stop feeding them! ?

LETTER: Electorate failed to do its job ...

LETTER: A good example for healing after close election

Hummel appointed Flathead justice of the peace

Longtime Kalispell attorney and substitute judge Eric Hummel has been appointed Flathead County justice of the peace. He will take office Jan. 1.

LETTER: Grandpa cheered by words from 8-year-old

Law Roundup: Social media helps business identify theft suspect

Whitefish Police Department took a report from a woman on Central Avenue who claimed that a shoplifter had stolen from her business and had been identified on social media. According to call records, the suspect in question had been to the Flathead County Detention Center before for other incidents. 

Bigfork students explore at cave camp

Dangling from a rope, Rhianyon Larson smiled as she tried to propel herself a few feet higher. She was hanging 10 feet off the ground from a pulley system at Camp Rotary in Monarch, near Great Falls. This day was only her second journey into a cave, and she was training to explore more in the future.

John Russell Cloud, 89

Brad Ludden

Brad Ludden was recently selected as one of 10 finalists for the CNN Hero of the Year award.

First Descents founder reflects on CNN 'Hero' nomination

Just as Brad Ludden began his professional whitewater kayaking career, his aunt was diagnosed with cancer. While he was able to see the effects cancer can have on a person and their family, Ludden also realized he had a therapeutic escape in kayaking, and if it worked for him, he might be able to help others. 

Plenty of reasons to be grateful

An alleged thief is singing a different tune after being caught red-handed in gas station casino bathroom last month.

Officials move closer to delisting Yellowstone grizzlies

CODY, Wyo. (AP) — Wildlife officials have moved one step closer to removing the Yellowstone grizzly population from the Endangered Species Act by approving a future conservation strategy.

Bigfork man sent to prison for stalking

Flathead District Judge David Ortley sentenced a 21-year-old Bigfork man to the Montana State Prison on Tuesday, saying that he hoped time and extensive treatment would help the stalker and burglar grow up and make better choices.

Report: Man died seeking place to soak in Yellowstone

BILLINGS (AP) — An Oregon man who died after falling into a scalding Yellowstone National Park hot spring in June was looking for a place to “hot pot,” the forbidden practice of soaking in one of the park’s thermal features, officials said.

Eureka Trophy.jpg

The Eureka Lions hold up the plaque for their first state title after defeating Missoula Loyola 31-28 on a Hail Mary as time expired in the Class B Championship at Loyola on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Eureka Hail Mary.jpg

Eureka senior Austyn Sherwood hauls in the 38-yard, Hail Mary as time expired to give the Lions a 31-28 victory over Missoula Loyola in the Class B State Championship at Missoula on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Eureka Celebration.jpg

Eureka running back Matthew Anderson celebrates after a game-winning Hail Mary that gave the Lions a 31-28 victory over Missoula Loyola in the Class B Championship on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Thanksgiving community dinners planned in Flathead

Restaurants in Bigfork and Kalispell invite the public to free community dinners on Thanksgiving Day.

Vandalism at Polson GOP office

Gift Guide Cover

Births, published Nov. 19, 2016

Zachary Chase Rhoads, 16

Tesa Marie (Rhoads) Rein, 44

LAW ROUNDUP: Missing friend had reason for lying low

Politically motivated crimes crop up across region

As emotions nationwide run high in the days following the election, there have been a few incidents of politically-motivated crimes in Western Montana.

Antoinette Stanton Jungster, 88

Antoinette (Toni) Jungster passed away peacefully at North Valley Hospital on Nov. 11, 2016.

Small businesses grapple with health insurance decisions

As health insurance rates continue to rise, small business owners have to decide whether to offer health insurance as a benefit to their employees or let them purchase it on their own through the individual market.

Cricket Wireless offers new service to Flathead

The Flathead Valley’s newest wireless provider opened on Sept. 1, and has done pretty well so far, manager Jeremy Frank said. 

AA state football title game: Senior pulls away to beat Glacier

BILLINGS — Glacier kept pace early but couldn’t outlast top-seeded Billings Senior, falling 33-21 in the Class AA state football championship game on Friday night at Daylis Stadium.

Invasive mussels

A boat propeller encrusted with invasive mussels.

Dunn gets the job done for the Lions

Don’t let the 6-foot-even, 165-pound stature of senior James Dunn fool you.

Eureka at Loyola for Class B state football championship

The last time Eureka played for a state title in football was 1990.

C-Falls looks to score first state football title

COLUMBIA FALLS — The Columbia Falls football team was trying to prove something the first time it faced Dillon. Now it’s trying to win the first state championship in school history.

LETTER: A Christian dissent from evolution theory

LETTER: Thoughts about Affordable Care

LETTER: Forced spending on insurance has forgotten effect

LETTER: Timing, coverage of school-bond vote criticized

EDITORIAL: Local food banks need your help

OPINION: Skepticism about infrastructure needs

Zachary Chase Rhoads

Tesa Marie (Rhoads) Rein

Macy Day's Parade.jpg

Kellie and Christian Klepper at their home in Whitefish on Friday, Nov. 18, 2016. The two will be on the lead float in the Macy's Day Parade on Thanksgiving. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Puppy reading.jpg

Elrod first-grader Celeste Church reads to her puppy Samantha for the Learning with Lucky program in Tiffany Strauss' classroom on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

puppy reading 2.jpg

Elrod first-grader Pepper Westermeier reads to her puppy Savannah for the Learning with Lucky program in Tiffany Strauss' classroom on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

5 tricks to a happier, less stressful holiday season

Your family's guide to cold and flu season

Kalispell protester

Jennifer Allen holds up signs protesting the election of Donald Trump at Depot Park in Kalispell on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Women sent to prison for locking children in basement

Flathead District Judge Robert Allison went beyond the bounds of a plea agreement and sent two women to prison Friday for locking their children in the basement. 

5 affordable ways to connect with family without breaking the bank

Celebrate and save with 8 affordable entertainment tips

Students 'mix it up' at lunch to promote inclusion

Kalispell Middle School “Team Tenacity” mixed things up a little at lunch on Thursday.

Questions raised about closure of popular Whitefish clinic

A new North Valley Hospital practice with a three-month patient waiting list is set to close this month after administrators decided not to renew its contract. The doctor that led the clinic said the abrupt closure has left him and his patients with unanswered questions.

Changes coming to Boys and Girls Club

With a change in leadership, the Boys and Girls Club is going back to the basics — ensuring after-school and summer programming for youth will remain in Evergreen and Columbia Falls long into the future.

Immanuel Lutheran recognized for safe working conditions

Montana’s largest workers’ compensation insurance company is giving $35 million back to its policyholders across the state. The Montana State Fund is directing more than $2 million of that money back to Flathead County businesses. 

Stroke education campaign reaches final phase

State officials are kicking off the final phase of a stroke education effort in Flathead County this month as an effort to tie people to care quickly in emergency situations.

No scrooges in charity solicitation

AA football championship game: Wolfpack looks to limit explosive Broncs

This is the game Glacier football has been playing for.

Kalispell man accused of making meth

The Flathead County Attorney’s Office has filed charges against a Kalispell man accused of stealing a motorcycle in July 2015, and storing it in a building where meth was being manufactured.

Glacier's winning culture: Built one week at a time

It’s commonplace for football coaches to talk about a team feeling and acting like a family.

Hummel appointed justice of the peace

Longtime Kalispell attorney and substitute judge Eric Hummel has been appointed Flathead County justice of the peace. He will take office Jan. 1.

Eric Hummel

Eric Hummel

DIL 110616 Cover

DIL 103016 Cover

DIL 102316 Cover

DIL 101616 Cover

Interim committee recommends $1M for suicide prevention

HELENA (AP) — A legislative committee is recommending the state spend $1 million on suicide prevention efforts over the next two budget years.

TWIF 111716 Cover

TWIF 111716

Cindy Hooker.jpg

Cindy Hooker recently became the director for the Boys and Girls Club of Glacier Country. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Cindy Hooker 2.jpg

Boys and Girls Club of Glacier County Director Cindy Hooker helps Griffin Hattel build a tower during a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics project at the club on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Developer drops plans to demolish historic Frank Lloyd Wright building in Whitefish

Following a backlash from those wanting to preserve the Frank Lloyd Wright building in Whitefish, a developer has dropped plans to demolish the historic building and now says he will put it up for sale.

Glacier success 2.jpg

Chris Turner, an assistant coach for Glacier High School, reacts to a touchdown during the Wolfpack's win over Missoula Sentinel in the opening round of the playoffs. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Success.jpg

Glacier seniors Jaxen Hashley (right) and Patrick O'Connell (16) celebrate after the Wolfpack's 29-14 victory over Helena High in the semifinal game at Legends Stadium last Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

My Voice Mix It Up Day

Payton Juelfs, left, laughs along with students in her group at the My Voice Mix It Up Day at Kalispell Middle School on Thursday, November 17. The goal of the event was to allow students to learn more about others that they may not know. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Nic Lee of Glacier Distilling

Portrait of Nic Lee of Glacier Distilling on Wednesday, November 16, in Coram. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Chick-fil-A opens in Kalispell

Kacey Franks gives her breakfast order for herself and her children to Mercedes Pyatt at opening day for Chick-fil-A in Kalispell on Thursday, November 17.  (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

DIY projects to increase the resale value of your home.

Create grand, open living spaces with unique pocket door frames

Five Ways to Help You Enjoy the Holiday Season

John Zauner Jr., 83

Joan C. Warren, 95

Janice Marie Eggen, 73

LAW ROUNDUP: Woman cited for disrupting bank

Copper King Fire salvage logging project proposed

The Lolo National Forest is proposing a salvage logging project on a portion of the roughly 29,000-acre Copper King Fire that burned east of Thompson Falls this summer.

Organizations focus on antibiotic education

Each year, roughly 23,000 people die from infections caused by bacteria resistant to antibiotics, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Part of the issue stems from people over-relying on the medication.

This Week in the Flathead | Nov. 17-23

Allen Jimmerson's wild art

Allen Jimmerson, a soft-spoken Montanan in jeans and a well-worn navy shirt, points to the small painting in the corner.

Kalispell plans to add new police officers

Kalispell is planning to add two new officers to the police department with the goal of gaining ground on an uptick in crime in the city.

Man accused of making drunken threats with gun

A man is facing felony and misdemeanor charges after he allegedly threatened a man with a gun on Nov. 4. 

Forecasts predict strengthening Montana economy, revenues

HELENA (AP) — Forecasts released this week predict a strengthening economy and a modest revenue boost for Montana over the next two years, though a legislative leader says the recent declines amid a downturn in oil and coal production will take their toll on the next state budget.

Northwest Montana deer harvest remains steady

White-tailed deer harvest remains steady and similar to last year’s totals in Northwest Montana, according to check-station data from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Kalispell man facing felony weapon charge

A Kalispell man is facing a felony assault with a weapon charge after he allegedly threatened people with a knife at a Stag Lane home on Nov. 9.

Classmates remember Flathead student killed in crash

Classmates gathered Wednesday with the robust energy of a truck rally to remember Zachary Rhoads, 16, a friend described as quiet, loyal and dependable.

LETTER: Author touts theory of 'real Republicans'

LETTER: Trouble ahead

LETTER: Is 'Indian reservation' same as 'Indian country'?

LETTER: Power, or principle?

Janice Marie Eggen

Rally for Zachary Chase Rhoads

Students gather behind Flathead High School on Wednesday afternoon, November 16, in Kalispell, to honor the memory of fellow student Zachary Chase Rhoads who was killed in a three-vehicle accident on Saturday, November 12, near Marion. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

This Week in the Flathead: Robin Sorg

Robin Sorg, one of the artists with work on display at the gallery on the second level of Snappy Sport Senter in Evergreen. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

This Week in the Flathead: Allen Jimmerson

Allen Jimmerson painting in his studio on Wednesday morning, Nov. 16, in the gallery on the second level of Snappy Sport Senter in Evergreen. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Richard Spencer

Whitefish resident Richard Spencer is head of the National Policy Institute, a white nationalist think tank.

Changing the end-of-life care conversation

Montana-based 'alt-right' leader has Twitter account suspended

NEW YORK (AP) — Twitter has suspended the accounts of several prominent members of the so-called "alt-right" in an apparent crack down on accounts tied to hate speech or threats of violence.

Baby on board? 8 tips for stress-free infant travel

5 tips to for pain-free holiday shipping this year

Be ready: Simple preparations to ensure winter weather doesn't catch you by surprise

Company cancels Badger-Two Medicine oil, gas leases

An Oklahoma-based energy company announced Wednesday it was voluntarily relinquishing 22,900 acres of oil and gas leases in the Badger-Two Medicine region south of Glacier National Park.

Creston hatchery pond closed to boating

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has closed the Jessup Mill Pond near Creston to all boating access while hatchery managers await updated sampling and information on the extent of invasive mussel contamination detected in Central Montana.

Hit the road with your team for the ultimate weekend adventure

The many moods of modern design

Edward Shawn Stefanatz, 43

Edward Shawn Stefanatz, “Little Ed,” 43, died in an automobile accident on Nov. 12, 2016. The accident also tragically took the life of two of his other family members, Tesa and Zach Rhodes. Ed and his family were returning home from a day of hunting out west of Kalispell, something that he dearly loved.

Hazel Arvilla Childers, 94

Peter W. Putzier, 75

Revisions proposed for Whitefish subdivision

Revised drainage, road and lot configurations for the proposed Cottonwood Estates subdivision near Stumptown Ice Den will be considered Thursday by the Whitefish Planning Board.

LAW ROUNDUP: Escaped cow charges good Samaritan

Glacier speech and debate takes 2nd at Missoula Classic

The Glacier High School speech and debate team took second place at the Garden City Classic in Missoula.

5 ways to find extra money during the holidays

Badger-Two Medicine

A hiker looks over Buffalo Lakes in the Badger-Two Medicine.

VOLLEYBALL: C-Falls' Finberg leads list of all-state honorees

Columbia Falls led all teams in Class A in honors, with Finberg joining fellow seniors Morgan Stenger, Kiara Burlage and Kaitlyn Casazza as all-state and first team all-conference recepients. Finberg, a setter who has committed to play collegiately at the University of Great Falls, was the engine of a Wildkat team that only dropped a handful of sets on the way to an undefeated season and a second straight state championship.

Governor's budget includes new taxes on wealthy, marijuana

HELENA (AP) — Montana Gov. Steve Bullock proposed Tuesday to create new taxes on the wealthy and medical marijuana in an attempt to bolster state revenues that have stagnated amid a downturn in oil and coal production.

Whitefish building one of Wright's final projects

The Frank Lloyd Wright Building on Central Avenue in downtown Whitefish is not a commercial building that stands out in any overt way, but the famous architect’s philosophy was all about blending into the environment.

Election results prompt historical society director to step down

Northwest Montana Historical Society Executive Director Gil Jordan will retire from his position on March 31 in part due to the election of Donald Trump as president, he announced to the group’s board of directors last week.

Immunization program focuses on teen vaccines

The Montana Immunization Program and its partners have launched a multi-year campaign called MT TeenVax that aims to remind parents about the importance of teen vaccines.

Kila woman sent to prison for dealing meth

A Kila woman and her Missoula boyfriend were both sent to prison Thursday for distributing methamphetamine between February and July. 

Long-awaited Chick-fil-A opens Thursday

The long-awaited dynamo of the quick-serve chicken sandwich industry opens its doors this week to the Flathead Valley.

Whitefish historic landmark headed for wrecking ball

Plans are underway to demolish the historic Frank Lloyd Wright Building in downtown Whitefish and replace it with a three-story mixed-use commercial facility, but a push to save the iconic building is gathering steam.

Peter W. Putzier

Edward Shawn Stefanatz

Hazel Arvilla Childers

Hazel Arvilla Childers

Evergreen: Weyerhaeuser

Sign for Weyerhaeuser along West Reserve Drive in Evergreen on Tuesday, November 15. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Evergreen: Lowery Studio and Gallery

Portrait of Ronald Lowery in the studio where he does his metal work at the Lowery Studio and Gallery in Evergreen. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Evergreen: The Shed Man

Shawn Davisson framing a shed on Thursday, November 10. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Easy DIY tips to save on your winter energy bills

AA Choir

Choirs from Flathead, Glacier, Bozeman, Missoula Big Sky and Helena High rehearse for the AA Concert Choir Festival at Glacier High on Tuesday. Three hundred students participated in the two-day festival. The guest director for the concert was Dr. Goeffrey Boers from the University of Washington. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Evergreen: Cricket

Wall art in the Cricket store. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Evergreen: Refurbished art gallery in Snappy's Sports Senter

View of the refurbished art gallery in Snappy's Sports Senter in Evergreen. Art on display includes pieces from Allen Jimmerson, who runs the gallery, Sunti and Robin Sorg. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

This Week in the Flathead: Allen Jimmerson

View of the refurbished art gallery in Snappy's Sports Senter in Evergreen. Art on display includes pieces from Allen Jimmerson, who runs the gallery, Sunti, Robin Sorg and Tina Milisavljevich. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

BNSF to study coal covers under tentative lawsuit agreement

SEATTLE (AP) — BNSF Railway will study the use of physical covers for coal and petroleum coke trains as part of a tentative agreement reached Tuesday with environmental groups that sued alleging that coal spilled from trains pollutes waterways in Washington state.

Has your tattoo expired?

Brix Bottle Shop

Interior of Brix Bottle Shop in downtown Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Monday Profile: Chany Ockert

Chany Ockert, of Bigfork, is a certified fundraising executive.

Research: Men want useful gifts, not fluff this holiday season

Semifinals 2.jpg

Semifinals.jpg

Football Semifinals

Semifinals 26.jpg

Semifinals 25.jpg

Semifinals 24.jpg

Semifinals 23.jpg

Semifinals 22.jpg

Semifinals 21.jpg

Semifinals 19.jpg

Semifinals 18.jpg

Semifinals 17.jpg

Semifinals 16.jpg

Semifinals 15.jpg

Semifinals 14.jpg

Semifinals 13.jpg

Semifinals 12.jpg

Semifinals 11.jpg

Semifinals 9.jpg

Semifinals 8.jpg

Semifinals 7.jpg

Semifinals 6.jpg

Semifinals 5.jpg

Semifinals 4.jpg

Semifinals 3.jpg

Find savings through recycling this holiday season

4 simple steps toward better heart health

Coughing? Bring a Healthy Dose of Sick-Etiquette to Work

How to get the most out of your lawn and snow tools

Cyberattack 411: Protecting your vehicle from hackers

Tickets available for Trump inauguration

Montanans interested in attending the presidential inauguration of Donald Trump can request tickets through the office of U.S. Sen. Steve Daines.

Students learn to build houses

Construction as a classroom

On a cloudy Friday afternoon, Flathead High School senior Riley Leighty was busy running a circular saw at a job site at 125 Corporate Drive.

Tribe closes waters to boats over mussel concerns

The Blackfeet Nation announced Monday it would close all its waters to both motorized and non-motorized boats, citing last week’s announcement confirming Montana’s first-ever detection of invasive mussels in the nearby Tiber Reservoir.

Fundraising underway for Kila School gym

Kila School Principal Jason Christy is taking a chance that the community can help raise close to $40,000 to replace the school gymnasium floor rather than go to taxpayers with a levy request or bond issue.

The breast cancer no one talks about: One woman's journey with metastatic disease

Wildlife baiting still illegal in Montana

It’s OK to buy a deer lick in Montana, but that’s about all you can do with it.

Operation Christmas Child drop-off sites announced

Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, is collecting items to fill shoeboxes to deliver to children overseas living in extreme poverty or affected by war, disease and natural disaster.

Extra patrol requested at airport

Dianne Lynn (Lockwood) Harpine, 66

Dianne Lynn (Lockwood) Harpine, 66, passed away after a long struggle with multiple health problems on Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016, at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson.

Group hopes to secure conservation easement

A haven for sandhill cranes and scores of other migratory birds would become one of the only protected habitats in the West Valley under a conservation easement being coordinated by the Flathead Land Trust.

Construction as a classroom

Flathead High School house construction teacher Brock Anderson assists senior Skylar Fincher in cutting wood to build a stairwell in the student-built home.

Wildlife baiting laws

Kila School Gym

An overview of they Kila School gym. The school is raising funds to have the floor replaced.

Divers find historic houseboat in Somers Bay

The first privately owned houseboat ever to navigate the waters of Flathead Lake — a beauty of a boat launched in 1928 — has been resurrected from Somers Bay almost 80 years since the luxury vessel burned and sank.

Feel-good lunches: How to bust the fast food blues

'Tis the season: 5 expert tips for seamless holiday entertaining

Extraordinary women are all around us

How extraordinary that the 100th anniversary of the election of the United States’ first woman to hold federal office — our very own Jeannette Rankin — coincided almost to the day of our recent presidential election.

Telecommuter expands career in Flathead

High-tech frontier

As Northwest Montana continues to grow as a hub for the high-tech sector, with both companies and individuals relocating here to run their operations worldwide, Bjorn Beer is a prime example of what that growing population of telecommuters looks like.

Three die in crash near Marion

A three-vehicle crash on U.S. 2 east of Marion Saturday evening claimed the lives of three Kalispell residents and left three other people involved in the crash injured.

Chicken noodle soup: Pressure cooking the homemade version

At Home Nov 16 Cover

Homegating for the holidays: 5 pro tips for MVP hosts

8 stress-free family travel tips for dads

The easy guide for creating an amazing holiday cheese board

Chief encourages community to weigh in on extra officer

Kalispell Police Chief Roger Nasset told community members at his monthly Coffee with the Chief meeting on Wednesday that he would welcome community members to show up and voice their opinion at Monday’s city council work session, when the council is set to discuss options for funding an additional officer.

Kalispell man charged for allegedly stealing unemployment benefits

A Kalispell man was arrested Thursday on a $25,000 warrant after state officials filed charges last week claiming that he stole more than $12,000 in unemployment benefits.

Kalispell Regional begins free valet parking

Kalispell Regional Medical Center has announced it will provide season-round valet parking for patients and visitors, as continued construction projects further shrink already limited parking on the campus.

90,000-acre logging project proposed near Troy

The Kootenai National Forest is proposing a logging project to harvest trees on more than 2,100 acres, spread over a more than 90,000-acre project area extending from Troy into Idaho.

The key to good caregiving: A healthy caregiver

4 undeniable reasons to travel in 2017

Kalispell Parks and Recreation earns top regional award

The Kalispell Parks and Recreation office on Monday was awarded the Gold Leaf Award — a top honor of a region that stretches from Canada to Mexico — for its 2016 Arbor Day event, which brought Kalispell students, teachers, businesses and organizations together for an educational event.

No smoke, no fire, just bad batteries

A Talbot Pines Loop resident called the

Man sentenced for dealing heroin

A Kalispell man will serve five years with the Montana Department of Corrections for dealing heroin last year.

Evergreen man accused of sexually assaulting child

An Evergreen man was arrested Nov. 3 on a $50,000 arrest warrant after the Flathead County Attorney’s Office filed charges alleging that he inappropriately touched a 12-year-old girl.

Monday Profile: Bjorn Beer

Bjorn Beer, a telecommuter recently transplanted in the Flathead Valley, said Glacier National Park was one of the factors drawing his family to Montana. 

Judge refuses to lower bail for theft suspect

Flathead District Court Judge Robert Allison refused last Thursday to release a man accused of stealing from an orchestra concert in October.

School for speedy skiers entering its first season

For those aspiring to be the fastest kids in Montana and beyond, the alpine ski racing season begins on the grass at Smith Fields in Whitefish long before the snow starts to fly up in the mountains.

Coalition receives teen alcohol use prevention grant

A Lincoln County coalition aimed at preventing teens from diving into the world of drinking, smoking and doing drugs received more than $47,000 in federal grants to expand its reach.

DIL 111316

Columbia Falls man charged with aggravated burglary

A Columbia Falls man has been jailed on a felony charge after allegedly breaking into a home and assaulting a man who he thought might be having an affair with his wife. 

Methodist church violated own rules in naming lesbian bishop

Defiance, deception, deceit and dishonesty: All actions or words to describe what seems to go on in the secular world today. Now these actions have infected or infiltrated the religious world — the CHURCH.

Kalispell man accused of making meth

The Flathead County Attorney’s Office has filed charges against a Kalispell man accused of stealing a motorcycle in July 2015, and storing it in a building where meth was being manufactured.

Mammogram truck to visit Bigfork Thursday

Hello Bigfork. Thanks-giving is just around the corner, and for many it is a time to give thanks for the many blessings in our life. Myself, I am grateful for many things and one of those things is that I am now a 16-year survivor of a cancer and that after treatment by the Kalispell medical community I am still alive.

Kalispell man admits stealing unemployment benefits

A Kalispell man admitted Thursday to taking more than $11,000 in unemployment benefits from the state. 

At Home Nov 16

OPINION: It's not the wall that imprisons you; it's the rhetoric

How one man nearly brought Many Glacier back to the Rockies

I worked in Glacier Park for about seven years, mostly over at Many Glacier Hotel. Many Glacier is a 210-room hotel built in 100 days in 1914 by the Great Northern bridge crew. They shipped in enormous logs and built a majestic lobby soaring up four stories on these huge columns, which continue down into the basement, or lake level.

Impeach IRS commissioner

It sure would be nice to have our three members of Congress from Montana explain this to us. I’m NOT holding my breath.

Lawsuit may be brewing over hotel hot tub

The threat of a lawsuit has prompted the Whitefish City Council to postpone its decision on a request for a rooftop hot tub at the Firebrand Hotel.

Voters speak decisively at polls

Montana was decisive with its voting on the slate of initiatives appearing on this year’s ballot, with each measure passing or failing by double-digit margins.

The fragility of power, and the power of the people

What a difference a day makes. 

Bison Range transfer proposal not adequate

In late August, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes released the second draft of the National Bison Range Transfer and Restoration Act of 2016. The Tribe also released a summary of key changes that had been made to the original draft. The revisions that were made came in response to suggestions made during a five-week-long public comment period solicited by the Tribes according to CSKT spokesman Rob McDonald.

Islamic radicals making inroads?

In August, MSU student Jaelyn Young was sentenced to 12 years in prison for attempting to join the Islamic State. Her fiance was sentenced to eight years. The couple planned on claiming they were traveling on their honeymoon as a cover story. Young stole her mother’s credit card to pay for their airline tickets. They were arrested at the airport before boarding a flight to Istanbul.

A postmortem liberal lament sans handwringing

I can’t bear all the handwringing on the inter-tubes by Democratic bloggers, pundits, and failed strategists, so this is my own postmortem liberal lament. Anyway, the energy of anger and disgust is better redirected into words than sticks and stones, or punching out windows in my petrol-mobile with arthritic knuckles.

STATE VOLLEYBALL: Weary Wolfpack finishes third

BOZEMAN — One day after back-to-back dramatic comebacks, the Glacier Wolfpack just didn’t have another one.

PERFECTION: Columbia Falls caps undefeated volleyball season with a 2nd straight Class A title

BOZEMAN — Nobody beats the Columbia Falls Wildkats, and they’ve got the record to prove it.

FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS: Columbia Falls flies past Belgrade, into Class A title game

BELGRADE — Columbia Falls continued its barrage on opposing defenses, connecting on four touchdowns of at least 43 yards in a 38-7 blowout of Belgrade in the Class A football semifnials on Saturday afternoon.

FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS: Eureka blasts Whitehall, advances to Class B title game

EUREKA — Behind 207 yards rushing and five touchdowns from senior running back Cannan Smith, the Eureka Lions turned a 7-6 halftime deficit into a 36-7 romp of the Whitehall Trojans Saturday afternoon to advance to the Class B state championship for the first time since 1990.

Gun sales cool off after Trump elected

After Donald Trump was elected as the 45th president of the United States on Tuesday, business markets and economists preached uncertainty for the future. One industry expecting stability, however, is firearms and ammunition suppliers.

Increased land management will enhance quality of life

While the Flathead was recently ranked as the fastest growing county in the state, our unemployment rate still stands above the state average despite our growth. We’ve seen layoffs at some of our oldest employers like Stoltze Land and Lumber Co., mill closures at Weyerhaeuser, and diminished numbers in some of our older sources of revenue like agriculture and mining. Many suggest tourism will replace these industries, but in the Flathead, it’s important to embrace all that our natural resources have to offer not only to ensure a strong economy, but also to enhance the quality of life that Northwest Montana has to offer.

Food banks feel wave of new families in need

As food banks and welfare services brace for the holiday season, when the number of people in need typically reach out for help is at its highest point of the year, several services around the valley were feeling the rise in need before the usual swell.

Eureka Football.jpg

Eureka running back Cannan Smith breaks the tackle of Whitehall defensive back Wyatt Alexander and sprints to the end zone for his third touchdown of the day during the third quarter of the Lions' 36-7 victory in the Class B semifinals in Eureka Saturday. Smith finished with five touchdowns. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Eureka Football 3.jpg

Eureka's Cannan Smith (26) and Austyn Sherwood (14) celebrate after Smith scored his first of five touchdowns in the Lions' 36-7 win against the Whitehall Trojans in the Class B Semifinals at Eureka on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Eureka Football 2.jpg

Eureka quarterback Garrett Graves slices through the Whitehall defense during the first quarter of the Lions' 36-7 victory in Eureka Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Bear in Columbia Falls feasts on garbage

Columbia Falls Police Department took a report from a caller who said that he or she had chased a bear off a property, but that the animal was undeterred and came right back. The caller was concerned that the bear did not appear to be afraid of people. A little while later the bear was spotted in the garbage can and then up a tree. Extra patrol was requested. 

Patricia Ann Sanders, 95

Patricia Ann Sanders, 95, passed away Nov. 8, 2016, at her home in Kalispell.

Man sentenced for threating people with gun

A Kalispell man was given a six-year deferred sentence on Thursday for threatening people with a gun on July 6. 

Marion man admits to not registering as sex offender

A Marion man admitted on Tuesday to not registering as a sex offender. 

WWII vet loved regimented routine of Coast Guard

As World War II raged in 1942, Gina Becker was trying to find a way to continue her education after graduating from high school in Libby.

Without a moral compass, can we find our way?

I was born in 1939, actually the day that England declared war on Germany, so like many of my generation, I am considered to be an “old fart”! But like so many of my generation, I have seen time after time, this republic rise from the ashes of devastation, to once again hold its head up high in the court of world opinion. 

Commission to look at oversight of houseboats on Flathead Lake

A pair of houseboats stationed along Flathead Lake’s north shore may rankle some lakefront property owners, but for now the floating homes appear to operate in a legal “no-man’s land,” where agencies lack any regulatory authority to manage the vessels’ presence.

Daybook

Columbia Falls receives $40,000 grant for virtual technology lab

Columbia Falls School District will be on the cutting edge of technology when it’s science, technology, engineering and math curriculum comes alive in virtual reality.

La clave de una buena atención es un cuidador saludable

Prep football playoffs: C-Falls on the road again; another home contest for Eureka

Like the Willie Nelson song, the Columbia Falls Wildcats (9-1) are rolling out of town again this weekend on another football playoff quest.

Wildkats cruise to Class A state championship volleyball match

BOZEMAN — Expecting a fight, the marauding Columbia Falls juggernaut instead romped its way to the state championship match and left the drama for its cross-valley rival on a wild, emotional Friday night at the all-class state volleyball tournament at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse.

Glacier rallies twice, stays alive at AA state volleyball

OZEMAN — Glacier volleyball coach Christy Harkins was grinning ear-to-ear in the hallways of Brick Breeden Fieldhouse late Friday night.

AA football semifinal: Wolfpack rolls Helena

Trailing by two scores early, Glacier (11-1) leaned on its strength up front to pull away against Helena High (8-4), beating the Bengals 29-14 on Friday in a thick fog at Legends Stadium in the Class AA football semifinals.

Glacier Football 2.jpg

Glacier running back Drew Turner drags a couple of Helena defenders with him as he rushes for a first down during the third quarter of the Class AA semifinals at Legend Stadium on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Football.jpg

Glacier's Jackson Pepe rushes upfield on a long kick return during the first quarter of the Wolfpack's 29-14 win over the Helena Bengals in the Class AA semifinals at Legends Stadium on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Football 4.jpg

Glacier reciever Jackson Pepe stretches out as he attempts to haul in a pass during the Wolfpack's 29-14 victory on a foggy night at Legends Stadium on Friday. With the victory the Wolfpack will advance to the state championship against Billings Senior. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Football 3.jpg

Glacier's Ethan Baines hauls down Helena running back Ryan Arntson during the fourth quarter of the Wolfpack's 29-14 victory. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Smith Valley School shares crosswalk concerns

Smith Valley School Principal Laili Komenda’s concerns about students crossing the busy highway in front of the school haven’t eased since she joined the district in 2010. 

LAW ROUNDUP: Woman's day gets off to rocky start

Hedges preschool applications available

Applications are available for families to find out if their children are eligible to attend preschool at Hedges Elementary starting in December.

Residents successfully lobby for lower project density

A united neighborhood group has successfully trimmed an upcoming residential development’s density nearly in half, in hopes of keeping their subdivision from becoming the next landing pad for Kalispell’s growing population. 

Montana man fined for lying about military service

GREAT FALLS (AP) — A Montana man who lied about serving in the military to have his burglary and theft case assigned to a Veterans Treatment Court has been found in contempt of court and sentenced to community service with a veterans’ service organization.

Kee-O-Mee

Executive Director of the Northwest Montana Historical Society Gil Jordan displays the remains of a tea kettle, one of the items recovered from the sunken remains of the Kee-O-Mee. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Korean War rigger still active with American Legion

As a U.S. Air Force parachute rigger during the Korean War, Joan Ortmann already was in a league of her own.

Veterans Day Ceremony at Depot Park

The Honor Guard prepares to fire three volleys at the close of the Veterans Day ceremony at Depot Park on Friday morning, November 11, in downtown Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Dickens, ice slides, beaches and roller coasters: Holiday magic awaits at Galveston's Winter Wonder Island

LETTER: Kalispell schools help support local economy

Recently, Kalispell Public Schools hosted its sixth and final state sports championship for the year — the state AA soccer tournament. The weekend before, the Montana High School Association’s Cross Country State Championships represented every size school in the state in a final competition. This past spring, we hosted AA Tennis Championships, the Archie Roe Track & Field Invitational, Basketball’s Western B Divisional and finally Girls AA Softball.

LETTER: Volunteer to assist a veteran

Today is Veterans Day.

OPINION: Distractions in a digital society

In my last letter, I voiced my opinion that parents and teachers need to become more familiar with the pitfalls of digital devices in the hands of students. I stated that, in many cases, having a smartphone results in reduced creativity, concentration, and lowered communication skills (the 3 C’s). In my opinion, one way that we can arm ourselves for the way technology “bites back” is to update our digital vocabulary. I believe that one should begin with the terms: multi-tasking, uni-tasking, shift-tasking, and flow/engagement.

COMMUNITY BRIEFS: Food for Fines

Kalispell Municipal Court is offering defendants a chance to reduce their existing fines or citations during Food for Fines, Dec. 1 and 2.

Alice Virginia Olson, 92

Alice Virginia Olson died Oct. 30, 2016, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home.

Nancy Wallace Ashton, 85

Nancy Wallace Ashton, 85, passed peacefully at home on Sunday, Oct. 16, 2016.

Daybook

Great Chief selection supports span of community groups

In recognition of his “exemplary passion for the community, service and magnetic charisma,” the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce named B.J. Lupton the city’s 45th Great Chief.

WEEKEND UPDATE: Veterans Day Events

All veterans, active military and the public are welcome to attend the following ceremonies.

Montana lawmakers to look at raising their pay 82 percent

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Future Montana lawmakers would receive an 82 percent pay raise or more compared to what they're making now under a measure to be considered next week by a legislative panel.

Vietnam-era vet devotes life to helping other veterans

Colleen Ross was the seventh woman ever to be stationed at the Minot Air Force Base as part of the women’s squadron when she arrived there in 1971.

Gulf War vet later volunteered in war-torn Bosnia

Angela Faustini was a bit of a wild child during her teenage years in Northern Maine.

FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS: Wolfpack looks to run down Bengals

For all the bells and whistles in the Glacier playbook, there’s an aspect of its football team that would fit in any era of the Montana high school playoffs.

STATE VOLLEYBALL: Glacier splits on opening day

BOZEMAN — A day that started with an eye-opening, dominating sweep ended with a thud, a wild emotional swing for the Glacier Wolfpack Thursday at the all-class state volleyball tournament at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse.

STATE VOLLEYBALL: Columbia Falls rolls into semis; Whitefish hangs tough

BOZEMAN — Challenges have been hard to find for the defending Class A state champs.

Children testify about being locked in basement

Flathead District Court Judge Robert Allison continued a sentencing hearing on Thursday for two women who admitted to locking children in a basement earlier this year.

Alice Virginia Olson

Tips to help you prepare your home for holiday celebrations

Mark Pirrie

Mark Pirrie, co-owner of Western Outdoor, is the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce's Businessman of the Year. (Photo courtesy of the Kalispell chamber)

Holly Jean Larson

Holly Jean Larson, manager of the First and Main Building in downtown Kalispell, is the Kalispell chamber's businesswoman of the year. (Photo courtesy of the Kalispell chamber)

BJ Lupton

BJ Lupton, owner of Snappy's Sports Senter and a member of numerous community organizations, has been named the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce's 45th Great Chief Award winner. (Photo courtesy of the Kalispell Chamber)

1111 LOC DIL Crystal Mears.jpg

Crystal Mears listens to testimony during her sentencing for locking her children in a basement without access to food or a proper toilet at Flathead District Court on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

1111 LOC DIL Amy Newman.jpg

Amy Newman listens to testimony during her sentencing for locking her children in a basement without access to food or a proper toilet at Flathead District Court on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Treating the whole person: How a small community of philanthropists made a big difference in health care

When bad health hits, look to this financial tool

Meal planning made easy: 5 tips to save time and cut stress

More than 500K Montanans voted in General Election

HELENA (AP) — For the first time in state history, more than 500,000 Montanans voted in a general election.

Glacier visitation 20 percent ahead of last year

Glacier National Park is still on pace to eclipse last year’s visitation record by about 20 percent, although October statistics indicated a leveling out of crowds once the park wrapped up its busiest summer in history.

3 simple tricks to improve your at-home barista skills

Columbia Falls selects new police chief

Clint Peters has been appointed the new chief of the Columbia Falls Police Department. 

food bank.jpg

Volunteer Dan Clark organizes items at the Flathead Food Bank on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier issues temporary boating closure

Glacier National Park implemented a temporary boating closure on all waters within the park Thursday, one day after Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks announced the first-ever detection of invasive mussels in state waters.

Glacier visitation drives fundraising boost

Glacier National Park’s chief fundraising partner has raised more than $1.3 million during its first phase of annual fundraising, a nearly three-fold increase compared with donations during the same span last year.

LETTER: Don't trust sale of federal lands

As a lifelong taxpayer in Sanders County (as well as Flathead County), I believe that a different perspective on the economics of state takeover of federal lands is in order.

LETTER: Bullock right to fight Real ID

Your editorial’s appeal for care in the fight against the federal REAL ID Act is thoughtful and well-intended (“Real ID battle must be waged smartly”), but the best strategy is to be loud and uncompromising in opposing the national ID law. Gov. Bullock is doing it right.

LETTER: Transfer of bison range opposed

Like most Americans and Montanans, I oppose disposition of federal land. So, it was amazing to see the Montana Conservation Voters, a leftist environmental advocacy group which professes to protect public lands, endorse giving a Federal Wildlife Refuge worth tens of millions of dollars to a sovereign nation. But that is exactly the result of transferring ownership of the National Bison Range to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

Food trends and a tempest in a teapot: Changing tastes bring out the best

LETTER: Country wrong at many levels

For those of us that have lived long enough to remember when things were different, it is so very sad to watch the death of America as we once knew it.

10 small ways to make everyday eating special

TWIF 111016 Cover

TWIF 111016

3 ways to revamp your winter skincare regimen

Ask Carrie: What Do Vets Need To Know About Their Finances?

Dear Carrie, My son joined the Army right out of high school with the idea of a military career. After 12 years and two tours of duty, he’s decided to return to civilian life. I’ve been reading that vets have a lot of financial problems once they’re on their own, especially with debt. How can […]

Froth up favorite fall flavors: Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate

The best wearable tech devices to help you look and feel better

LAW ROUNDUP: Unwanted furry guest gets catty

'Dragapella Beautyshop Quartet' hits Whitefish Friday

When the 70-year-old retired Presbyterian minister and her 84-year-old retired minister husband perused the Whitefish Theatre Co.’s proposed 2016-17 schedule, there was a single act that stuck out above the rest.

Now hear this: 10 jobs that can damage your hearing

3 reasons why winter is a smart time to buy a home

This Week in the Flathead | Nov. 10-16

A historic victory, and a good start

Daybook

Norma Jean (Schwaderer) Corbitt, 79

Norma Jean (Schwaderer) Corbitt passed away on Nov. 6, 2016, in Kalispell after a long fight with dementia. She was 79.

Home on the (Craggy) Range

The kind of massive, two-month renovation that the Craggy Range Bar & Grill endured this spring can be a twisted maze of planning and preparation, with dozens of moving parts weaved together until the final product — a sparkling, wide-open facility at 10 Central Ave. in downtown Whitefish — is revealed.

Glacier National Park Conservancy

Nikki Eisinger, director of development for the Glacier National Park Conservancy, presents a check to Glacier National Park Superintendent Jeff Mow and the park's leadership team.

Clint Peters

Clint Peters was hired as Columbia Falls Police Chief on Monday.

Jim and Ian Paisley

Jim Paisley, left, of Kalispell and Ian Paisley of Denver pose in front of the Wrigley Field marquee before Game 4 of the World Series last month. (Courtesy photo)

TERRY COLUMN: Experience of a Lifetime

A young baseball fan enamored with the sport, Ian Paisley asked his dad, Jim, if they could make a trip to the World Series when his favorite team finally made the highest pinnacle of the sport.

No headline

As a lifelong taxpayer in Sanders County (as well as Flathead County), I believe that a different perspective on the economics of state takeover of federal lands is in order.

STATE VOLLEYBALL: Columbia Falls seeking to defend Class A crown

Glacier, Whitefish contenders in Bozeman

As buses roll into Bozeman from around the state, one team is rolling better than any other this season.

Veterans get into Glacier free on Friday

In honor of Veterans Day this Friday, Glacier National Park will be waiving entrance fees for all visitors.

Births, Published Nov. 10

Roxie Jones

2016 Election Clinton

Hillary Clinton, accompanied by her husband, former President Bill Clinton, pauses while speaking to staff and supporters at the New Yorker Hotel in New York, Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016, after conceding the Presidential election to Donald Trump. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Obama, urging unity, says he's rooting for Trump's success

WASHINGTON (AP) — In an awkward political ritual, President Barack Obama urged the nation Wednesday to join him in rooting for President-elect Donald Trump’s success, even as he and his shell-shocked aides prepared to watch a successor undo much of their work.

Republicans seek concessions from Bullock after election win

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Republican leaders say Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock will be forced to shift politically in their direction after the GOP maintained decisive majorities in both the state House and Senate.

Clinton says highest glass ceiling will be shattered one day

NEW YORK (AP) — Gone was the ballroom with a soaring glass ceiling, the confetti and the celebrity guest stars. Instead, Hillary Clinton looked out to a group of grief-stricken aides and tearful supporters, as she acknowledged her stunning loss of the presidency to Donald Trump.

Kinsey Sicks

The Kinsey Sicks will perform "Chicks with Shticks" Friday at 8 p.m. at the O'Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. (Photo provided by the Whitefish Theatre Company)

Brewfest moves to Whitefish after Kalispell council denies permit

The Kalispell City Council on Monday denied a request by local groups to host a benefit brewfest at Woodland Park that had been scheduled for Friday. 

Marijuana patients have lengthy wait until limit is lifted

HELENA (AP) — Montana voters may have successfully reversed severe restrictions state lawmakers imposed on medical marijuana, but patients will have to wait nearly eight months before they can step into a dispensary again.

Stay One Step Ahead of Diabetes and Help Protect Against Vision Loss

Women Veterans

A collection of memorabilia including medals, graduation yearbook, challenge coins and dog tags belonging to Angela Faustini. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Beyond the Cancer: Working With Your Care Team to Help Reduce Risk of Infection During Strong Chemotherapy

First sign of invasive mussels detected in Montana

Montana’s wildlife agency announced Wednesday that invasive mussels had been detected in a reservoir in Eastern Montana, the first such detection in the state. The discovery has fisheries managers scrambling to re-test samples taken from other water bodies in the state, but so far the tests have not revealed any additional contamination west of the Continental Divide.

Somers Bay Fog.jpg

The morning sun burns off the fog on Flathead Lake in Somers Bay on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Smith Valley Trafic.jpg

Smith Valley School crossing guard Danielle Prichard stops traffic on U.S. 2 West to let students pass after school. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Houseboats.jpg

Ben Lard stands in his houseboat the Kee O Mee II at Somers Bay on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Houseboats 3.jpg

The Abraham houseboat sits in Somers Bay on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Houseboats 2.jpg

The Kee O Mee sits in Somers Bay on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Lake County election results (20/20 precincts)

Kalispell allows short-term rentals, with conditions

The Kalispell City Council on Monday passed a new set of regulations to allow short-term vacation rentals within city limits. But the final ordinance passed came with a last-minute amendment that could narrow the number of rentals for owners. 

Turn Thursdays into together time this holiday season

Ryan Zinke election 2016

Shock, joy and fear as voters elect Donald Trump president

Zinke celebrates reelection to U.S. House

Cheers broke out at a Whitefish Republican victory party just before midnight on Election Day as polls showed U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke defeated Democrat Denise Juneau to maintain a two-decade Republican lock on Montana’s sole House seat. 

Women are a mighty minority in U.S. military

Vietnam Era veteran Colleen Ross of Columbia Falls well remembers the response she got at an employment office when she asked about job opportunities for veterans.

6 holiday-friendly home design features

Election results from Sanders County (9/9 precincts)

Election results from Sanders County with all precincts reporting. 

Columbia Falls veteran's unit helped clear IEDs in Iraq

Kellie Barker remembers lying awake at night in the Iraqi desert and trying to remember the favorite smells of her home in North Dakota as she finally drifted off.

Determined thief steals from garage

Few surprises in local House, Senate elections

Holmquist retains commissioner seat

Trump victorious

President-elect Donald Trump, right, shakes hands with Vice-President-elect Mike Pence during his election night victory rally, Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2016, in New York. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Restituta E. Bradley, 74

Barack Obama

Women Veterans

Vietnam War veteran Colleen Ross holds a photo of herself from her days in uniform on Tuesday, October 27, outside the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Trump victory party

Members of the National Border Patrol Council cheer as GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump took Ohio at his election party at the Midtown Hilton in New York, late Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2016. From left are, Vice President Art Del Cueto, President Brandon Judd and Lee Smart. (Tom Fox/The Dallas Morning News via AP)

Eddy, Wilson elected as district judges

Lincoln County Election results (14/14 precincts)

Zinke sails to victory in U.S. House race

Bullock defeats Gianforte in close race for governor

Kalispell to California: Flathead senior commits to play basketball at Sacramento St.

Flathead senior Tiana Johnson has committed to play basketball at Sacramento State, the school announced Monday. Johnson will officially sign a National Letter of Intent today, the first day of the early signing period for NCAA Division I programs.

Montana statewide results for major races (98 percent)

Trump wins White House in astonishing victory

No headline

After reading the Democratic Party candidates’ quotes as to their objectives, I cannot believe that Lisa Morrow would “support eliminating big-money lobbying and politician kickbacks, exposing dirty money and the politicians that take it,” and yet be running as a Democrat. Where has she been? Has she not witnessed the lies and corruption of Hillary and her husband Bill? Or perhaps Obama and his corrupt Justice Department?

No headline

If only I could single-handedly vote Pam Holmquist out of office in the same way she is almost single-handedly turning Kalispell and our beautiful Flathead Valley into a commercial blight.

Trump and Clinton

Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump and Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton shake hands after the presidential debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y., Monday, Sept. 26, 2016. (AP Photo/David Goldman)

Updated results from Flathead County (42/42 precincts)

2016 Election Results

Craggy Range Bar and Grill

The new open layout at the Craggy Range Bar and Grill photographed before the bar opened on Monday, Nov. 7, in Whitefish.

Election header

Election results

4 reasons why you should fill your shopping cart with store brands

Long lines worth the wait for many Flathead voters

Misprint slows voting at precinct 5

Flathead Valley voters headed to the polls early Tuesday morning to cast their ballots. By 9 a.m., the line at the Flathead County Election Department stuffed the hallways and zigzagged outside of the new facility, holding eager voters at bay in the morning sun.

10 truly unique gifts for under $100

Polling Place.jpg

One-year-old Jax Roper reads while his grandma Mary Roper votes at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

POlling Place 2.jpg

A line of voters stretches to the back of the polling place Trade Center at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

5 kitchen updates that stand the test of time

Local man dies in Martin City crash

A man died in a single-vehicle crash early Tuesday morning in Martin City. 

Losing weight to maintain a healthier lifestyle: Advice from a board-certified endocrinologist

No-stress holiday entertaining tips and tricks

6 cooking tips to impress your guests this holiday season

Confidence-boosting tips for fitness class first-timers

5 easy ways to 'charge up' your recycling habits

Polls open, late registration continues

ELECTION DAY

A minute past noon on Monday, an election volunteer walked down the steps of the Flathead County Election Department with a sign announcing registration had closed for the day. Behind him, a line of people waiting to register led up the stairs and double backed, snaking along the department’s hallway.

Convicted veteran gets 6-year deferred sentence

Case brings vet treatment options to the forefront

Flathead District Court Judge David Ortley on Thursday gave a former Kalispell man a six-year deferred sentence for committing an armed robbery of a Kalispell Town Pump in November 2014.

Speech and debate teams compete over the weekend

Kalispell teams commanded the top spots at a home tournament over the weekend.

Veterans Day events take place all week

Veterans Day ceremonies are scheduled across the Flathead Valley this week. All veterans and active military personnel are invited and the public is encouraged to attend.

Caller reports drugs and threats

The

Montana Wooden Boat Foundation offering new adult classes

The Montana Wooden Boat Foundation is offering new adult boat building classes in early 2017 at its Boat Building Center located at 100 Bierney Creek Road in Lakeside.

Agency offers help to Medicare customers

With the deadline for Medicare enrollment set for Dec. 7, the Flathead County Agency on Aging is working to connect seniors with a plan that makes sense for each individual.

Five simple steps to prevent the spread of cold and flu germs

Music in the Morning

Nick Fischer of Kalispell plays the grand piano at the Museum at Central School on Monday morning, November 7. Fischer is a self-taught musician who has been playing guitar and piano for more than ten years. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Voter Registration lines

A large sign at the base of the stairs of the new South Campus Building announced that voter registration and absentee voting would close at noon on Monday, Nov. 7. People who got in line before noon were allowed to complete registration, but at noon people had to be turned away.

Intimacy & chronic illness: Redefining "normal"

A surprising strategy for getting the most out of your Social Security

Overdose deaths on the rise and where you can get help

Ask Carrie: The Case For Financial Education

Dear Readers, You probably know that I’m a champion of financial literacy. And as I look at some of the recent research from FINRA, it only reinforces my commitment. According to their findings, fewer than 50 percent of Americans have tried to figure out how much they need for retirement, have an emergency fund or […]

Former Olney fire chief charged with felony theft

A former chief of the Olney Fire Department has been charged with felony theft of more than $10,000 following allegations of embezzlement by residents and fire district trustees earlier this year.

2014 youth poaching ring case comes to close

2014 youth poaching ring case comes to close

'Tis the season for creating dazzling holiday tables

Polls open at 7 a.m. on Election Day

The polling places for Flathead County’s 42 precincts will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Election judge reflects on experience

A love for voting

While the nation seems stretched from a tense election season, one Bigfork resident is less focused on candidates and more concerned with voters.

Smith Valley School looks to expand

Smith Valley School is seeking to expand its district by roughly 10 acres of land.

Whitefish council mulls hotel's rooftop hot tub proposal

The fate of the Firebrand Hotel’s embattled rooftop hot tub proposal will be determined by the Whitefish City Council tonight following a public hearing on the matter.

Kalispell Council to tackle variety of topics

Ten months after its initial appearance on the city agenda, short-term rental regulations are coming to a vote at tonight’s council meeting.

Too young to skateboard

A caller told the

Kalispell woman accused of stealing more than $40,000

A Kalispell woman is facing two felony charges after allegedly stealing more than $40,000 from her employer.

Woman denies Glacier Park thefts, admits skipping out on probation

A Whitefish woman has denied accusations that she stole people’s wallets and credit cards from Glacier National Park last year.

Gerald 'Jerry' Eby, 84

DIL 110616

LETTER: Questions about Bullock

Corruption, secrecy, and unaccountable. All three words describe the Bullock administration quite well. The administration gave contracts to companies with family ties to the administration. This happened with the tourism advertising contract which went to a Wisconsin company. The rules were changed during the allocation process and the Wisconsin company came out on top while having no experience in the marketing.

LETTER: Wildlife Society group supports trapping

The Montana Chapter of the Wildlife Society supports continued regulated trapping on public and private lands for sustained harvest of furbearers and other non-game as a method of managing Montana’s wildlife.

LETTER: Thanks for explanation

For a while now I have been bombarded by literature from various candidates.

LETTER: Miele misses the mark

Mr. Miele’s Oct. 30 column regarding Gianforte’s position on the sales tax accuses Democrats of “smear”ing Gianforte for a statement he made in 2002, supporting a sales tax.

LETTER: Vote against Taylor Rose

I am puzzled by the decision of Taylor Rose to try to represent House District 3 in the Montana Legislature. I believe Mr. Rose does not reside in HD 3 and does not represent the locals here.

LETTER: Clinton record worries voter

Hillary Clinton smugly touts that she defends toddlers and women while supporting Planned Parenthood, which rips babies from the safety of their mothers’ wombs and sells their body parts. She laughs about this. And our tax dollars pay for this holocaust upon the innocent of the most innocent! How barbaric, brutal and vulgar have we become?

LETTER: Vote for Gianforte for fiscal responsibility

The scandal of $1.1 billion improperly accounted for is enough to tilt my vote for Greg Gianforte and against incumbent Steve Bullock.

LETTER: Gianforte for governor

Greg Gianforte wants local control of our schools. He is a job creator, founding RightNow Technologies, which created over 500 jobs in Bozeman — average wage of $90,000. He’s a proven jobs creator, not a career politician.

LETTER: Democrats not squeaky clean

After reading the Democratic Party candidates’ quotes as to their objectives, I cannot believe that Lisa Morrow would “support eliminating big-money lobbying and politician kickbacks, exposing dirty money and the politicians that take it,” and yet be running as a Democrat. Where has she been? Has she not witnessed the lies and corruption of Hillary and her husband Bill? Or perhaps Obama and his corrupt Justice Department?

LETTER: Editor applauded for challenging liberal media

I am very proud of our editor; he has moxie. I would bet there are not 50 papers in the U.S. that would challenge the liberal media, both paper and TV as he did in his Oct. 23 “2 Cents” column. Everything we hear from them and the Clintonistas is doing all they can to destroy their opponents. No real plans to help this nation to be as our founders wanted us to be. —

LETTER: Vote for Perry

Before you vote, HD3, think about this potential scenario. I’m a businessperson considering a location in Northwest Montana. The state representative of one community has a long history of ties to groups he claims are “dedicated to the defense of Western Civilization” but that are more commonly called “white nationalist.” The next community over doesn’t have that kind of baggage. Which am I more likely to choose? Time and again in recent years, the politics of prejudice have proved to be bad for business. Vote Zac Perry for HD3. —

LETTER: Fielder best for SD7

I have known Sen. Jennifer Fielder for a number of years. She works incredibly hard and is completely dedicated to solving problems. Her integrity is for real.

LETTER: A vote in remembrance

I recently learned that a man who worked in a local business had died several weeks ago. He was what I thought of as my sporting-goods friend and we often talked about everything that people of advancing years find reassuring: family, the cost of .22 shells, and politics.

LETTER: Trump doesn't have history of discrimination

I am tired of all this emotional drama over “he hates women” as a category or personality trait.

LETTER: Bullock's campaign ads mislead the public

Bullock has lied about Greg Gianforte being a New Jersey millionaire when in fact Greg spent only a short time there and brought his work ethic to Montana where he wanted to raise his family, and he became a millionaire by starting a business in his garage which grew to a business that employed 550 people locally and 1,100 worldwide.

LETTER: Lowery for commissioner

The election of the best county commissioners is of crucial importance to us all and the future of the Flathead Valley. We have a choice on Nov. 8 when incumbent Pam Holmquist faces challenger Eileen Lowery.

LETTER: Vote for Greg Gianforte for jobs

Please join me in voting for Greg Gianforte, Republican candidate for governor of Montana. Greg stands for the values Montanans believe in. Greg is against un-vetted refugees, for legal immigration, for proper management of our public lands, in favor of access to public lands, and for lower taxes, better jobs and less government. Greg is a staunch supporter of our constitutional rights, especially our Second Amendment rights. We need Greg to protect our freedoms, our pocketbooks and to bring high-paying jobs back to the state of Montana.

LETTER: Bush was joined by Democrats in WMD concerns

A recent writer said that Congress was lied to by President Bush that Iraq had WMDs (and therefore the Senate voted for the Iraq invasion).

LETTER: Candidate disputes charges by letter writer

In his letter to the editor on Nov. 4 endorsing my opponent, Steve Thompson told some whoppers about me.

LETTER: Hillary failed to help the women of Tanzania

I am a radical Christian. For 21 years, I’ve been putting my money where my heart is — a girls school in Tanzania, which started with 37 students, and now has 325. Hundreds of six-year graduates — teachers, nurses, almost any job you can name. Without education, in a multiple-marriage society, many of these girls had no right to their own bodies. Child marriage, circumcision and drudge work were their fate. What a difference education makes and an opportunity to know Christ. Wow, I couldn’t ask for a more rewarding job.

LETTER: It's not just trapping that offends some

It was last hunting season when I experienced the genuine concern of the Foot Loose crowd. These are the folks who are pushing for the end of trapping.

OPINION: News media covering up for Hillary Clinton?

The Clinton News Media is not covering the WikiLeaks emails, which could be a duplicate of those in the procession of the FBI from off a backup server tape. All emails including speeches to Wall Street are now being made public.

Yes, Trump is flawed, but that doesn't justify vote for Clinton

I think Barack Obama has been one of the most effective and successful presidents in the history of the U.S., certainly in my lifetime. He promised change, and he, thanks to a feckless, witless, and spineless Congress, has delivered.

'An open letter to my children during presidential campaign'

Dear kids: It’s a great time of year. Montana’s autumn is breathtaking! We’ve enjoyed our first good snowfall. And you’re well into a new school year, learning the skills you’ll use to inherit and then take care of this beautiful world.

EDITORIAL: Get informed - and then vote

It’s almost here — the day we’ve all been waiting for — the day AFTER Election Day!

LETTER: Vote against Holmquist

If only I could single-handedly vote Pam Holmquist out of office in the same way she is almost single-handedly turning Kalispell and our beautiful Flathead Valley into a commercial blight.

LETTER: Misdirection by the Clintons

I once attended a magic show in Las Vegas to where Siegfried and Roy made a baby elephant disappear off a stage in front on 300 people. How did they do that? Misdirection.

LETTER: Gianforte is against sales tax

I am a licensed CPA here in Montana. I was curious as to why Montana has never eliminated the income tax, and replaced it with a sales tax. Given Montana’s high number of visitors and seasonal residents, a sales tax would seemingly provide incremental revenue to the state (paid for by non-residents). And (so the thinking goes), by eliminating the income tax, Montana could start attracting companies which have historically found the income-tax climate better in other states.

Arlene 'Nannie' Tutvedt Shepherd, 87

Slightly opening her eyes for the final time, Mom raised her frail hand and pointed to the pictures of family we had placed on the walls surrounding her bed ... she smiled and sighed. So fitting of a wonderful, loving mother who had devoted her life and her heart to family.

Bill Koenig, 56

William “Bill” Koenig passed away on Oct. 27, 2016, at his home in Kalispell, surround by his loving wife and children, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Tavern Association chapter forms on the North Shore

The Montana Tavern Association recently tapped a chapter from the North Shore of Flathead Lake, the first new member in over two decades.

LETTER: Another view of trapping

Too many people wrapped up in the anti-trapping vote are missing some important points. Many people are making a significant part of their income from trapping. Will the anti-trappers pay those with lost income? Also, remember those trapping supply dealers and their employees will lose jobs too as well as affecting ATV and snowmobile sales and service which most trappers use.

Daybook

ANNIVERSARY: Harry and Maureen Pitman

Harry and Maureen (Gaffaney) Pitman were married Aug. 27, 1955, in Cut Bank.

WORKPLACE WATERCOOLER: Workshop examines recruiting a diverse workforce

The Flathead Valley Society for Human Resource Management will host a workshop on recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce on Nov. 10 at Flathead Valley Community College.

Rhonda R. Braaten, 56

“We love you so very much. Do not be afraid. He will catch you in his arms and you will ascend to the happiness and heaven that awaits you.”

COMMUNITY BRIEFS: Salvation Army taking applications for Christmas assistance

The Salvation Army is taking applications for Christmas assistance on the following dates:

COLUMN: Silver Anniversary of Dayton Daze

For the last 25 years the community of Dayton has boosted the Chief Cliff Volunteer Fire Department and Quick Response Unit’s budget by throwing a big summer celebration.

Woman facing felony after allegedly firing shot at house

A Kalispell woman has been charged with felony criminal endangerment after she allegedly fired a shot at a residence on U.S. 93 South on Oct. 29.

ANNIVERSARY: Carroll and Lori LaVanway

Carroll and Lori LaVanway of Kalispell are celebrating their 60th anniversary today, Nov. 6, with a potluck dinner hosted by their daughters at the Kalispell Moose Lodge.

Ashlee Renee Sifuentes, 31

Ashlee Renee Sifuentes, 31, passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2016, at her home in Kalispell. After a long battle and the struggles she faced with her pain, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, Ashlee chose to take her own life.

Lawson rushes for 7 TDs, Hot Springs romps in Class C 6-Man football playoffs

HOT SPRINGS — The first touchdown was scored by Bainville but it was all Hot Springs after that as the Savage Heat romped to an 89-19 victory in Class C 6-Man quarterfinal football playoff action on Saturday afternoon.

Florence wins Western B volleyball; Bigfork 3rd

ANACONDA — Florence captured the Western B divisional volleyball championship on Saturday by defeating Thompson Falls 20-25, 25-23, 25-19, 23-25, 15-10 in a wild, marathon title match.

Class B football playoffs: Eureka slams Shelby

EUREKA — Blemish repaired.

Class A football playoffs: C-Falls sinks Sidney

SIDNEY — Columbia Falls battled back after giving up two big scoring plays to upend Sidney 35-20 in quarterfinal action of the Class A football playoffs on Saturday afternoon.

Wildkats roll to Western A volleyball title

COLUMBIA FALLS — Columbia Falls made no doubt about how strong it is entering the state volleyball tournament, dominating the Western A divisional on the way to a four-set win in the championship match on Saturday afternoon at Larry Schmautz Memorial Gym.

LAW ROUNDUP: Man hit by car possibly injured in crash

Funeral home puts personal touch on final memories

By the nature of his career, Lee Darlington comes into people’s lives during some of their most painful and vulnerable times. From the perspective of a funeral director, the range of tragedy is endless, he said.

Polson man gets 30 days for possession of child porn

A Polson man was ordered Oct. 28 to serve 30 days in federal prison and 15 years on probation after he pleaded guilty to one felony count of possession of child pornography in U.S. District Court in Missoula.

Artist crafts Native American-style flutes

SOMETIMES LIFE’S JOURNEY veers in an unexpected direction. David Webb can attest to that.

Ronan man admits to robbery, carjacking, kidnapping

A Ronan man admitted on Tuesday to violently robbing Deano’s General Store in Missoula on May 27, holding a family hostage at gunpoint in their vehicle and leading authorities on a high-speed chase while in the vehicle with the family.

COLUMN: Right makes might? We'll know soon enough

I am nothing if not an optimist.

Man sent to prison for bear spraying deputies

A Flathead County man was sentenced to 15 years in prison on Friday for assaulting two sheriff’s deputies with bear spray in late January in Evergreen.

Transient man charged in string of Kalispell thefts

A transient has been charged with felony theft after he was allegedly caught in Kalispell Center Mall parking lot with a haul of stolen loot.

Wolf shot in Judith Gap traveled 700 miles from Washington

A wolf shot near Judith Gap in central Montana spent the previous three months traveling about 700 miles, starting in western Washington, Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks officials said.

Wildkat Volleyball.jpg

Columbia Falls setter Cydney Finberg tips the ball over the net for a point against Whitefish during the Western A Divisional Championship at Columbia Falls on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Wildkat Volleyball 2.jpg

Columbia Falls senior Mogan Stenger hammers the ball past a pair of Whitefish defenders during the Western A Divisional Championship at Columbia Falls on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Voter Snapshots: Election Day can't arrive soon enough for most Flathead Valley voters

WHATEVER THE OUTCOME of this year’s vitriolic campaign season, voters will likely unite around at least one shared sentiment: Thank God it’s over.

Rhonda R. Braaten

Arlene 'Nannie' Tutvedt Shepherd

Bill Koenig

Ashlee Renee Sifuentes

Darlington Cremation and Burial Service

Inside the chapel at Darlington Cremation and Burial Service. (Seaborn Larson/Daily Inter Lake)

Amber and Lee Darlington

Amber and Lee Darlington operate the newest funeral service in the state. (Seaborn Larson/Daily Inter Lake)

Carroll and Lori LaVanway (now)

Carroll and Lori LaVanway (then)

Harry and Maureen Pitman (now)

Harry and Maureen Pitman (then)

Kara Criscuolo

Butte native Kara Criscuolo, 19, is still undecided going into her first election. (Seaborn Larson/Daily Inter Lake)

Kim and Tony Vasquez

Kim and Tony Vasquez, of Whitefish, are voting Republican. (Seaborn Larson/Daily Inter Lake)

John McKee

John McKee is submitting a full Democratic ballot this fall. (Seaborn Larson/Daily Inter Lake)

Barbara Jenkins

Barbara Jenkins, who owns a small Columbia Falls business, split her ballot this year. (Seaborn Larson/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Speech.jpg

Glacier's Brock Adkins delivers his dramatic interpretation during the Kalispell Kickoff Speech and Debate Tournament at Glacier High School on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Flathead speech.jpg

Flathead's Katie Stobie presents her argument during the Varsity Lincoln-Douglas Debate at the Kalispell Kickoff Speech and Debate Tournament at Glacier High School on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

FAITHS ROUNDUP: Presbyterian church holds prayer vigil in Kalispell

First Bible Presbyterian Church in Kalispell will hold a prayer vigil on Monday, Nov. 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in recognition of the Day of Prayer for Our Nation.

Woman charged in Ptarmigan Village Condos burglary

Authorities believe they have caught a woman who broke into Ptarmigan Village Condos in Whitefish on Oct. 16. 

Flathead, Glacier debate looking to return to championship form

Flathead and Glacier high schools are looking for a comeback season in speech and debate.

Columbia Falls aiming for another speech title

In Class A speech and debate, reigning champion Columbia Falls High School is aiming for a 12th consecutive win this season as it competes against state runner-up Whitefish High School.

Rising premiums vex the minority paying full price for health insurance

Michelle Harris, 61, had waited since July to hear the price of her 2017 health insurance plan. In her Columbia Falls home this week, she spread the results across her kitchen table. 

School calendar

— St. Matthew’s School will perform “ Rapunzel,” with Missoula Children’s Theatre at 5:30 p.m. today in the auditorium at Flathead High School.

Daybook

Florence hands Bigfork first loss at Western B divisional volleyball

ANACONDA — Florence advanced to the championship match of the Western B divisional volleyball tournament by downing Bigfork 25-21, 25-18, 25-23 in semifinal play Friday evening.

Volleyball: C-Falls, Whitefish advance in Western A

COLUMBIA FALLS — Whitefish and Columbia Falls will meet for a third time this season on the volleyball court, each winning second-round matches Friday afternoon at the Western A divisional tournament to set up a meeting in the undefeated semifinals today at noon at Columbia Falls High School.

Prep football playoffs: Eureka gets another shot at Shelby

It terms of getting emotionally ready to play a football game today, Eureka will have no trouble doing that.

Wolfpack runs down Sentinel

There was no shootout this time.

Glacier Football.jpg

Glacier running back Drew Turner breaks loose for a long run duing the second quarter of the Wolfpack's win against Missoula Sentinel in the opening round of the Class AA playoffs at Legends Stadium on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Fball 3.jpg

Glacier running back Jackson Pepe cuts upfield as Andrew Durado blocks for him during a Wolfpack scoring drive in the first quarter against Missoula Sentinel. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier fball 2.jpg

Glacier quarterback Tadan Gilman lunges forward during a Wolfpack scoring drive in the first quarter against Missoula Sentinel at Legends Stadium on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Kalispell schools taking team approach to student discipline

Kalispell Public Schools, law enforcement officers, social workers, counselors and the Center for Restorative Youth Justice have teamed up to share their expertise in revising the approach to student discipline and addressing behavioral concerns of at-risk youth.

Kenneth R. 'Kenny' Guenther, 61

Kenneth R. “Kenny” Guenther, 61, died Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2016, at his home in Columbia Falls. 

Paul E. Klapp, 69

Paul E. Klapp, 69, of Bigfork, died Nov. 2, 2016, in Kalispell. 

Kathryn 'Katie Lou' Rosenow, 78

Kathryn Louise “Katie Lou” Rosenow, 78, passed away peacefully Monday, Oct. 31, 2016, with family in Kalispell, where she resided for the past four months with her daughter. 

Patricia Hughes, 72

Whistlestop tour

Ivan Jaquette, left, talks with Greg Gianforte at Laurie's Deli in Columbia Falls Friday morning. The Republican gubernatorial candidate made a stop in the city on a 42-community tour before the election. (Chris Peterson/Hungry Horse News)

Health Insurance

MICHELLE HARRIS looks over health insurance documents at her home in Columbia Falls. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Lawmaker sues Montana commissioner of political practices

HELENA (AP) — A Montana lawmaker sued Commissioner of Political Practices Jonathan Motl on Friday for saying the legislator faces penalties for revealing a confidential ethics complaint he filed against Gov. Steve Bullock, a lawsuit Motl said was timed to sway voters in a close governor’s race.

Gianforte makes final campaign stop in Flathead

Republican gubernatorial candidate Greg Gianforte made a brief stop in Columbia Falls Friday, urging supporters to help drive turnout in the Flathead Valley during his final statewide campaign tour before Election Day.

Man mum about BB stuck in his head

Kalispell Police took a call from Stag Lane, where a man possibly in his late teens reported that a BB was stuck in his head. The man was incoherent and was not forthcoming about how the BB ended up lodged in his body. He said that he had not tried to shoot himself and that no one else had shot him. The man kept saying that the situation was complicated. He was taken to the hospital by the family for treatment. 

Flathead houseboat.jpg

Dorothy McGlenn stands with the barometer and clock from the Kee-o-Mee, a houseboat that her father built, at her home in Kalispell on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Flahtead Houseboat 2.jpg

Guests on the Kee-O-Mee houseboat inscribed the barometer. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

#### LOC DIL Flathead Houseboat 3.jpg

The barometer and clock of the Kee-O-Mee houseboat. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Smith Valley School

A fifth-grade class at Smith Valley School has 32 students. 

LETTER: Skees endorsed

It is my honor to endorse Derek Skees for state representative in House District 11.

LETTER: Check the facts about I-177

The man who pulls a knife in a fistfight is desperate and losing. The liar in an argument is also. Knowingly telling lies is a sign that we may have a belief that cannot be honestly defended. Those of us who support I-177 have checked the facts whenever we write or say anything about trapping. We do not have to make things up.

LETTER: 11 reasons not to support Zinke

I have 11 reasons why we shouldn’t vote for Ryan Zinke for U.S. House.

LETTER: Holmquist protects rights

Please join me in voting for Pam Holmquist, the Republican candidate for county commissioner. We need to keep Pam to protect our property rights, water rights, our freedoms and to promote businesses and jobs in Flathead County.

LETTER: Hartman is right choice for SD3

We’re fortunate that Whitefish resident Melissa Hartman is running to represent us in the Montana Senate. She deserves your vote. I’ve gotten to know Melissa well over the past couple years and found her to be intelligent, fair and willing to dig in and work hard on local solutions.

LETTER: Decision on I-177

If you agree with the following statement, please vote YES on I-177. “I think it is a bad idea to have thousands of unattended traps that can kill or maim unintended species sharing public recreation land with me, my family, and my pets.” The issue really is as simple as that. —

OPINION: State auditor candidate stresses opposing visions

The Montana state auditor leads an office that is often overlooked or misunderstood, even though its insurance and investment work impacts every single Montanan. I’ve spent the past seven years serving as the top lawyer in the office and in that time, I’ve had the absolute joy of helping Montanans in every corner of our state. I’ve been in the trenches fighting for you and I’m ready to put that experience to work as your next state auditor.

OPINION: Candidate gives his take on U.S. House election

As a 23-year U.S. military commander, I’ve always been mission-focused, and no mission is too big or too small to take on with everything I have. Whether it’s hunting terrorists in the Middle East, winterizing the house, or fighting for Montana in Congress, I always take the same mission-critical approach as your representative in Congress.

OPINION: Justice for survivors of sexual assault in Montana

Prosecutors will tell you that sexual assault cases can be some of the most difficult to prosecute. Survivors will testify to the lasting physical and emotional scars from their assault. That’s why we at the Montana Department of Justice have worked to improve laws, ensure survivors are treated appropriately, bring perpetrators to justice, and help Montanans prevent such horrible crimes from happening.

EDITORIAL: Mental health care gets a boost

Overall health isn’t limited to a person’s physical condition. Mental wellness plays an equally important role.

17th Annual Holiday Craft Sale at Hoopers Garden Center

Robin White of Columbia Falls shopping at the 17th Annual Holiday Craft Sale on Friday afternoon, November 4, east of Kalispell at the Hoopers Garden Center. The event has more than 60 vendors and takes place Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

An affordable way to qualify for a home loan without that big down payment

Kalispell man charged with seventh DUI

A Kalispell man has been charged with a seventh instance of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. 

Addicted to heroin or opioids? Help is available

Time-saving kitchen hacks for the holidays

LAW ROUNDUP: Is your refrigerator running?

COMMUNITY BRIEFS: Community volunteers for CASA

Judge David Ortley swore in 11 new community volunteers for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate on Oct. 24.

Broadway veteran offering lessons in Whitefish

Singer Mike Eldred is ready to call the Flathead Valley home, and to make his mark on aspiring local performers.

Daybook

Thomas Gregory Byrd, 45

Thomas Gregory Byrd, aka “Tommy B,” passed away on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016, at 5:10 a.m. peacefully in hospice care in the arms of his loving wife Cassie Rae Byrd, from complications related to colon cancer. He was 45 years old.

WEEKEND UPDATE: Ski sale in Whitefish

The Big Mountain Ski Club’s annual ski sale is this weekend at The Wave in Whitefish. Today is consignment day. Bring in your good, used sporting equipment and clothing between 1 and 7 p.m. Memberships may also be purchased today.

State accepting Future Fisheries grant applications

Landowners and watershed groups have until the end of the month to apply for next year’s round of state grants from the Future Fisheries Improvement Program.

Bigfork, Florence 2-0 at Western B volleyball

ANACONDA — The Bigfork girls pulled off a pair of five-set upsets to advance to the undefeated semifinal at the Western B divisional volleyball tournament on Thursday.

Strong start for C-Falls, Whitefish at Western A divisional volleyball

COLUMBIA FALLS — Columbia Falls shook off a sluggish start to dispense with Stevensville in three sets on Thursday during opening-round play of the Western A divisional volleyball tournament at Columbia Falls High School.

Glacier prepares for Sentinel as AA football playoffs begin

The last time Glacier football played Missoula Sentinel, it had an extra week to prepare and eked out the highest-scoring game in school history.

Whitefish bike path plan ready for prime time

A bicycle and pedestrian master plan that outlines $23.5 million worth of trail development in Whitefish over the next 20 years will make its debut at a Whitefish Planning Board public hearing this month.

Thomas Gregory Byrd

CASA volunteers sworn in

Gianforte leads nation in ads by a state candidate

HELENA (AP) — Montana residents inundated with TV ads about gubernatorial candidate Greg Gianforte now have proof of just how much they’ve seen of him: A nonprofit investigative journalism organization says he’s aired more campaign ads than all other candidates in the nation seeking to win statewide elections.

Wildkat volleyball.jpg

Columbia Falls senior Keavyn Baker blasts the ball past a pair of Stevensville defenders during the Wildkats' 3-game victory at the Western A Divisional Tournament in Columbia Falls on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Columbia Falls Volleyball.jpg

Columbia Falls senior Morgan Stenger hammers the ball past a pair of Stevensville defenders during the Wildkats' 3-game victory at the Western A Divisional Tournament in Columbia Falls on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Man, woman charged in Hungry Horse shooting

A boyfriend and girlfriend each face a felony charge of criminal endangerment after the couple allegedly got into a spat that ended in a shooting.

Lawmaker reveals confidential complaint against Bullock

HELENA (AP) — A Montana lawmaker has revealed a week before Election Day that he filed an ethics complaint against Gov. Steve Bullock, despite a state law saying such complaints are confidential until they are resolved.

Mike Eldred

Officials look to put no-name lake on the map

Officials tasked with naming things on maps are looking for historical information on a small, unnamed lake in the West Valley.

Madre con diabetes narra la historia de su bebé milagrosa para informar sobre la enfermedad

unnamed lake.jpg

Geese and ducks takes off on an unnamed lake in West Valley on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

1104 LOC DIL unnamed lake 2.jpg

Geese and duck on the water of a small unnamed lake in West Valley. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Managing osteoarthritis: What you don't know is hurting you

5 ways guys can plan the perfect vacation

Immunotherapy Medicine May Offer Hope to People Affected by Lung Cancer

LETTER: Romano best for superintendent

Melissa Romano is running for superintendent of public instruction.

LETTER: Candidate's ties are unacceptable

I’m an Irish citizen now living in Montana, and I find the candidacy of Taylor Rose for the District 3 Montana House seat deeply disturbing, considering his reported ties to far-right white nationalist movements — a fact that the Montana GOP has sought to paper over.

LETTER: Allow conscience to decide vote on trapping horror

Montana voters will soon have the rare privilege to reduce suffering on public lands and help end trapping’s shameful legacy of virtual torture across the Montana commons. I-177 is a citizen drafted initiative that will limit recreational trapping on public land.

5 fall fashion finds that blend comfort and style

LETTER: SD3 candidate reflects on valley's generosity

As Election Day approaches, I want to express how honored I am to run for the office of state senator in District 3. Having knocked on almost 3,000 doors here in the Flathead Valley, I feel incredibly thankful to the many people who opened their doors and shared their concerns with me.

TWIF 110316 Cover

TWIF 110316

Mom with diabetes shares the story of her miracle baby to spread awareness

OPINION: Vote for life and against big government

We have some great choices in this November election — individuals who are pro-life, pro-Second Amendment (and understanding it is not ONLY for hunting, but also for the self-defense of the American people), and anti-big government.

OPINION: Is Rep. Zinke still supporting Trump? How could he?

In the wake of Donald Trump’s 2005 admission to having committed sexual assault, and then a few of his victims corroborating that admission, I sent an email to Rep. Ryan Zinke asking if he still supports Trump.

OPINION: Candidate touts business experience

I have a business. Product, service and availability are essential to the growth and client retention of my business. Why? Because my clients have choices. They can always leave for another company. I want to be part of a future where our city, county and state public institutions provide better service and availability to the citizens they are supposed to serve.

LAW ROUNDUP: 'Ms. MacGyver' handles dying bear

Columbia Falls speech opens with win

Reigning Class A speech and debate state champions, Columbia Falls High School, kicked off the season with a first-place win in Stevensville.

Avalanche safety workshop in Whitefish Nov. 5

This year’s Northern Rockies Avalanche Safety Workshop in Whitefish has drawn another panel of experts to enlighten winter sports enthusiasts about safe backcountry travel.

Kalispell sprinkler rates end

City of Kalispell residents are reminded that the discounted sprinkling rate for the current year ended Oct. 31.

American bison designated national mammal of U.S.

RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — The American bison has been designated the national mammal of the U.S. during a ceremony at Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota.

This Week in the Flathead | Nov. 3-9

Somers-Lakeside corridor tops list for wildlife crashes

The winding stretch of U.S. 93 between Somers and Lakeside earned the state’s top ranking for vehicle collisions with wildlife, according to a study published last month by the Center for Large Landscape Conservation.

EDITORIAL: FFA does the Flathead proud - again

Once again the caliber of the Flathead Valley’s young people is in the spotlight with Kalispell FFA students recently excelling in competition at the National FFA Expo and Convention.

Judge: Property crimes leave lasting mark

Last week, the third-floor chambers of the Flathead Justice Center saw a number of criminals walk through the doors.

Candidates interviewed for justice of peace

The Flathead County Commissioners interviewed two candidates Tuesday for a Flathead County justice of the peace position that will be vacant in January.

Daybook

Gov. Steve Bullock

Montana Govenor Steve Bullock speaks at the Flathead Democratic Party Office in Kalispell during a stop on the Montana Democrats Get out the Vote Tour on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Group behind Supreme Court ads disputes state filing order

HELENA (AP) — An organization that has spent $268,000 to influence a Montana Supreme Court election doesn't need to register as a political committee with the state, an attorney for the group said in a letter to Montana's commissioner of political practices Wednesday.

Births, published Nov. 3, 2016

Democrats make final pitch in Kalispell stop

Montana’s top Democratic candidates kicked off a statewide campaign tour Wednesday, delivering get-out-the-vote speeches to supporters in Kalispell between similar stops in Pablo and Browning.

Candidates interviewed for Flathead justice of peace

The Flathead County Commissioners interviewed two candidates Tuesday for a Flathead County justice of the peace position that will be vacant in January. 

Obama says Army Corps examining Dakota oil pipeline route

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — President Barack Obama has called for “peace” and “restraint” on the disputed Dakota Access oil pipeline, and says the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is examining whether the four-state project can be rerouted in southern North Dakota to alleviate the concerns of American Indians.

3 tips for a more flavorful holiday meal

AP Election Video

Go West! Adventurers, film buffs flock to Rocky Mountain resort

Fall Color

A red barn and autumn leaves make a striking contrast against the blue of the mountains on a mostly overcast morning on Wednesday, November 2, in Columbia Falls. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Sunlight and Fall Color

A ray of sunlight brightens a tree on the banks of the Whitefish Lake State Park on Tuesday afternoon, November 1. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Tips to help millennials minimize digital eye strain symptoms

MT life Flute.jpg

Dave Webb blows into a flute he is making to check its tone at his shop on Wednesday, October 26,2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

MT Life Flute 6.jpg

A collection of Dakota WindSong flutes are displayed in Dave Webb's studio. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

MT Life Flute 5.jpg

Dave Webb plays one of his flutes in his studio at his house on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

MT LIfe Flute 3.jpg

David Webb turns a flute on his lathe at his shop. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

MT Life Flute 2.jpg

A block of blue stain pine that Dave Webb plans to make a flute from is marked and sits on a work bench. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Democrat tour.jpg

Montana Govenor Steve Bullock speaks at the Flathead Democratic Party Office in Kalispell during a stop on the Montana Democrats Get out the Vote Tour on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

90% child bone mass acquired by age 20 - nutrient packed foods can help

Pneumonia kills 37 bighorn sheep on bison range

During the past two months, wildlife officials at the National Bison Range have documented the deaths of 37 bighorn sheep due to a pneumonia outbreak.

Safe food techniques every home cook should know

Floyd Edwin Ott, 91

Floyd Edwin Ott

Salt storage barns: The key to safe winter roads

5 ways to design with the 1980s comeback kid: Marble

5 travel tips for a last minute getaway

LAW ROUNDUP: 'Ms. MacGyver' handles dying bear

Canyon Creek repairs to wrap up next year

Due to recent heavy rains and snowfall, permanent repairs on the Canyon Creek Road will not be completed until next summer, according to a press release from the Flathead National Forest.

Robert Orman Lyford, 87

Robert Orman Lyford passed from this life in the morning of Oct. 30, 2016, while in Kalispell Regional Medical Center, surrounded by close family members.

Local physicist announces two new books

Local physicist Edwin Berry on Friday announced the publication of two books covering American and Montanan politics.

LAW ROUNDUP: Envelopes full of cash reported lost

COMMUNITY BRIEFS: Holiday Bazaar benefits museum

The Heritage Museum’s Holiday Bazaar will take place this weekend in Libby. Hours are 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5.

Gladys Ruth Spear, 86

Lifelong Whitefish resident Gladys Ruth Spear passed away peacefully on Saturday, Oct. 29, 2016, at her home in the same Colorado Avenue neighborhood in Whitefish where she lived her entire life.

James 'Jim' Kavert, 76

James “Jim” Kavert passed away in his sleep late on the night of Oct. 15, 2016, at age 76.

Daybook

No headline

I’m an Irish citizen now living in Montana, and I find the candidacy of Taylor Rose for the District 3 Montana House seat deeply disturbing, considering his reported ties to far-right white nationalist movements — a fact that the Montana GOP has sought to paper over.

VOLLEYBALL: Big Sky ousts Bravettes

Flathead falls short in four sets in Class AA play-in

After falling in the first two games to Missoula Big Sky 25-20 and 25-17 in their Class AA play-in volleyball match, the Flathead Bravettes stormed back and pushed the Eagles to the brink of a fifth game but couldn’t put away the fourth and fell 3-1 to bring their season to a close on Tuesday at Flathead High School.

Flathead man admits tying up, threatening woman

A Flathead County man admitted Monday to an incident in which he tied and held a woman against her will at gunpoint, and another in which he stole an all-terrain vehicle. 

Kalispell sign project directs visitors to popular places

The Kalispell Convention and Visitors Bureau is on the final lap of a wayfinding sign project to help travelers navigate to the city’s points of interest. 

Canyon Creek repairs to wrap up next year

Due to recent heavy rains and snowfall, permanent repairs on the Canyon Creek Road will not be completed until next summer, according to a press release from the Flathead National Forest.

Whitefish housekeeper, two others facing burglary charges

A Whitefish woman asked Flathead District Court Judge Heidi Ulbricht on Thursday to keep her former housekeeper behind bars after the housekeeper and two others allegedly stole thousands of dollars worth of property from her family’s home.

Rain slows county road work

Record rainfall during October has hampered fall maintenance on Flathead County roads, but crews are out in full force to get roughly 400 miles of gravel roads graded by winter.

Federal judge upholds state campaign disclosure law

HELENA (AP) — Montana’s new campaign disclosure law has survived its first test, with a federal judge rejecting arguments that it unconstitutionally interferes with the free speech of groups that want to influence elections without revealing where they get their money or how they spend it.

Wreck at Woodland and Center

Kalispell police officer Garrett Smith, center, interviews the driver of a vehicle that struck the concrete barriers where Woodland turns onto Center Avenue on Tuesday evening, November 1, in Kalispell. Kalipsell Fire was also dispatched to the scene but the driver of the vehicle was not transported to the hospital. The wreck caused a brief road closure.

Telling stories through songs - Nick Spear

Nick Spear will take part in the Stumptown Songwriters' Circle on Thursday, Nov. 10, at 7:30 p.m.

Telling stories through songs - Mike Murray

Mike Murray is one of the musicians taking part in the Stumptown Songwriters' Circle on Thursday, Nov. 10, at 7:30 p.m.

Telling stories through songs - David Walburn

David Walburn is one of the musicians taking part in the Stumptown Songwriters' Circle on Thursday, Nov. 10, at 7:30 p.m.

This Week in the Flathead: Songwriter Circle

David Walburn is one of the musicians taking part in the Stumptown Songwriter's Circle will be Thursday, November 10 at 7:30 at the O'Shaughnessy. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Telling stories through songs

From left, Mike Murray, David Walburn and Nick Spear play a song during a photo shoot at Whitefish Lake State Park on Tuesday, Nov. 1. The three will be performing in the Stumptown Songwriters' Circle on Thursday, Nov. 10, at 7:30 p.m. at the O'Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Robert Orman Lyford

James 'Jim' Kavert

Gladys Ruth Spear

Hunting numbers up

Jeff Christensen glasses a hillside as the clouds start to lift during the opening weekend of the general deer and elk season west of Kalispell. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

James

KId Kare.jpg

Sue Motes-Conner of the Kid Kare Center sits in the new Kid Kare Infant Center on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Research is clearing up the understanding of rosacea, a common skin condition

4 ways to make your family's holiday portraits shine

October brings a foot of rainfall to area mountains

Already the wettest October on record for most of Northwest Montana, last month wrapped up as Kalispell’s sixth-rainiest month of all time and broke the overall records for single-month precipitation in several nearby towns.

7 datos de la Seguridad Social que necesita saber

7 Social Security facts you need to know

3 ways schools are redefining mealtime

Pregnant? What you should know about preterm birth

Home improvement tips for your car that can save you money

Tech tools that can help you find a mortgage and home faster

Autumn and early winter: The best times to be a homebuyer?

Plastic prosthesis helps one dog live a better life [Video]

Australian sewing whiz schools on computerized machines

Students in stitches

Over the weekend 25 sewers had the opportunity to test drive “the Cadillac” of computerized sewing machines under the instruction of an international teacher at A-1 Vacuum and Sewing in Kalispell.

Hunting numbers still up in Northwest Montana

Hunters in Northwest Montana reported another good weekend of hunting, with hunter success and harvest numbers up from last year in most of the region’s check stations.

Weyerhaeuser awards grant to Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity got a $10,000 boost last week from its new neighbors in Columbia Falls, who have picked up where Habitat’s past boosters left off.

Northwest Pacific Trail council meets this week in Whitefish

An advisory committee for the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail will meet in Whitefish this week as it prepares to begin developing a comprehensive plan for the 1,200-mile scenic hiking route.

Man accused of driving over employee in Kalispell

A 40-year-old man was arrested and charged with robbery after allegedly shoplifting then driving over an employee.

Man denies drug dealing

A Kalispell man has denied trafficking drugs into Flathead Valley, though a judge has found that the charges are enough for him to remain in jail, and not be released without posting some sort of bail or bond.

Spring Prairie Development gains momentum

Concrete walls climbed quickly last week, forming the initial shape of Hobby Lobby, Kalispell’s newest store in the Spring Prairie Development.

Hungry Horse Dam

The rain gauge at Hungry Horse Dam recorded more than a foot of rain in October. 

Kalispell way finding

A wayfinding sign on U.S. 93 North directs travelers to points of interest in Kalispell. (Seaborn Larson/Daily Inter Lake)