Ellington

Montana to join Idaho, N. Dakota in holiday weekend patrols

On Labor Day weekend, troopers from the Montana Highway Patrol, the Idaho State Police and the North Dakota Highway Patrol will join together to carry out Operation Border to Border — a collaborative effort to reduce traffic fatalities, impaired driving and criminal activities on state highways.

Sperry Chalet lost in Sprague Fire

At about 6 p.m. Thursday, the main building at the Sperry Chalet was lost to the Sprague Fire, according to the

Peaceful Drive reportedly not so peaceful

A resident of Peaceful Drive reported hearing a series of gunshots coming from the somewhere in the not so peaceful neighborhood, according to Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Tornow drops out of Whitefish judge race

Longtime Whitefish attorney Thomas Tornow announced Thursday he is withdrawing his candidacy for Whitefish municipal judge.

Tally Lake Campground reopens

The Tally Lake Ranger District on the Flathead National Forest is reopening the Tally Lake Campground, Boat Launch and Day Use Area on Friday, Sept. 1. The campground was closed earlier in the week for public safety, following several reports of bear activity in the campground.

Great Fish fundraiser wraps up with color run

Sept. 15 is the deadline for giving

Dorothy Virginia (Ewart) Krause, 99

Dorothy Krause “went to be with the Lord” on Aug. 9, 2017.

Commissioner Mitchell pleads not guilty to felony

A Flathead County commissioner pleaded not guilty to felony criminal mischief in Flathead District Court on Thursday.

County buying Col. Falls acreage as jail site option

Flathead County is buying the former “Cedar Palace” and adjoining acreage owned by Weyerhaeuser Co. in Columbia Falls as a possible site for a new jail. The purchase price is $2.6 million.

Carl Elias Goble, 89

Carl Elias Goble passed away peacefully late in the evening on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2017, surrounded by his loving family.

Montana Sky suffers as part of massive internet outage

An internet outage that affected Montana Sky Networks customers Wednesday evening and Thursday morning was fixed by early Thursday afternoon.

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THURSDAY, AUG. 31

Fall quilt club meetings to begin Sept. 6

The Museum at Central School is again hosting a quilting club and workshop during the fall season, which is free and open to the public.

Crown Choir begins fall season Sept. 6

The Crown of the Continent Choir will begin rehearsals for the fall season from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 6, at Flathead High School.

Bent Rim Photography to be featured at Whistling Andy through September

Whistling Andy Distilling will host an artist reception featuring Bent Rim Photography on Friday, Sept. 1, from 5 to 8 p.m.

Bigfork celebrates 10th annual Rumble in the Bay

Bigfork’s 10th annual Rumble in the Bay will roll into Bigfork this weekend.

Auditions announced for 'Tarzan the Musical'

Students from across the Flathead Valley will swing into action when ATP Kids, the educational outreach program offered by the Alpine Theatre Project, holds auditions for its fall session, culminating in a production of a musical version of the popular Disney film, “Tarzan the Musical.”

Glacier Symphony launches 35th concert season

Glacier Symphony will launch its 35th concert season with a new look, a 35th Gala celebration and a concert that focuses on the power of healing through world music.

'Beauty and the Beast' auditions to be held Sept. 5

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre invites students in grades 2 through 12 to audition on Sept. 5, for the cast of the classic Disney musical “Beauty and the Beast.”

Season begins with '10-Minute Play Festival'

The Flathead High School Theatre Department will kick off the 2017-18 season with “Flathead’s 10-Minute Play Festival” at 6:27 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, in the David M. Hashley Theatre at FHS in Kalispell. Tickets are $5 at the door.

Paint, Metal and Mud to feature John Ashley

John Ashley is September’s featured artist at Paint, Metal and Mud art cooperative, 16 First St. W., Kalispell.

Rotary Club presents Falls Fest on Sept. 9

The Rotary Club of Columbia Falls will present the third annual Falls Fest on Saturday, Sept. 9, at Marantette Park.

Bigfork plays the 'Hits'

There was a “whole lot of shaking going on” as this year’s Bigfork Summer Playhouse cast prepared for the final show of the theater’s 58th season, “The Hit’s of the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s.”

Legals August 31, 2017

No. 24791 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE TO BE SOLD FOR CASH AT TRUSTEE'S SALE on December 15, 2017, at 11:00 AM at the East door of the Flathead County Justice Center located at 920 South Main Street, Kalispell MT 59901, the following described real property situated in Flathead County, Montana: TRACT 2 OF CERTIFICATE OF SURVEY NO. 14257, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE NORTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 29, TOWNSHIP 29 NORTH, RANGE 22 WEST, P.M.M, FLATHEAD COUNTY, MONTANA. FRANKLIN D. LITTLE, as Grantor, conveyed said real property to Insured Titles, as Trustee, to secure an obligation owed to Mortgage Electronic Registration System, Inc. as nominee for Homebridge Financial Services, Inc. DBA Real Estate Mortgage Network, as Beneficiary, by Deed of Trust on April 8, 2014, and recorded on April 8, 2014 as Document No. 201400005991. The beneficial interest is currently held by HomeBridge Financial Services, Inc. . First American Title Company of Montana, Inc., is the Successor Trustee pursuant to a Substitution of Trustee recorded in the office of the Clerk and Recorder of Flathead County, Montana. The beneficiary has declared a default in the terms of said Deed of Trust by failing to make the monthly payments beginning July 1, 2016, and each month subsequent, which monthly installments would have been applied on the principal and interest due on said obligation and other charges against the property or loan. The total amount due on this obligation as of August 1, 2017 is $295,551.43 principal, interest totaling $15,701.10 late charges in the amount of $1,697.90, suspense balance of $-94.66 and other fees and expenses advanced of $9,573.42, plus accruing interest, late charges, and other costs and fees that may be advanced. The Beneficiary anticipates and may disburse such amounts as may be required to preserve and protect the property and for real property taxes that may become due or delinquent, unless such amounts of taxes are paid by the Grantors. If such amounts are paid by the Beneficiary, the amounts or taxes will be added to the obligations secured by the Deed of Trust. Other expenses to be charged against the proceeds of this sale include the Trustee's fees and attorney's fees, costs and expenses of the sale and late charges, if any. Beneficiary has elected, and has directed the Trustee to sell the above described property to satisfy the obligation. The sale is a public sale and any person, including the beneficiary, excepting only the Trustee, may bid at the sale. The bid price must be paid immediately upon the close of bidding in cash or cash equivalents (valid money orders, certified checks or cashier's checks). The conveyance will be made by Trustee's Deed without any representation or warranty, including warranty of Title, express or implied, as the sale is made strictly on an as-is, where-is basis, without limitation, the sale is being made subject to all existing conditions, if any, of lead paint, mold or other environmental or health hazards. The sale purchaser shall be entitled to possession of the property on the 10th day following the sale. The grantor, successor in interest to the grantor or any other person having an interest in the property, at any time prior to the trustee's sale, may pay to the beneficiary or the successor in interest to the beneficiary the entire amount then due under the deed of trust and the obligation secured thereby (including costs and expenses actually incurred and attorney's fees) other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred and thereby cure the default. The scheduled Trustee's Sale may be postponed by public proclamation up to 15 days for any reason, and in the event of a bankruptcy filing, the sale may be postponed by the trustee for up to 120 days by public proclamation at least every 30 days. THIS IS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. Dated: August 3, 2017 Kaitlin Ann Gotch Assistant Secretary, First American Title Company of Montana, Inc. Successor Trustee Title Financial Specialty Services PO Box 339 Blackfoot ID 83221 STATE OF Idaho ss. County of Bingham On this 3rd day of August, 2017, before me, a notary public in and for said County and State, personally appeared Kaitlin Ann Gotch, know to me to be the Assistant Secretary of First American Title Company of Montana, Inc., Successor Trustee, known to me to be the person whose name is subscribed to the foregoing instrument and acknowledged to me that he executed the same. Rae Albert Notary Public Bingham County, Idaho Commission expires: 09/06/2022 Homebridge Financial Services, Inc vs FRANKLIN D. LITTLE 102441-1 August 24, 31, September 7, 2017 MNAXLP

James Andrew Vale, 24

James Andrew Vale died on Sunday, Aug. 27, 2017.

Bear activity prompts hard-sided camping at St. Mary

St. Mary Campground on the east side of Glacier National Park, is temporarily available to hard-sided camping only due to bear activity. The hiker/biker sites also will be temporarily unavailable at this campground due to the change.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drive, 11 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., Immanuel Lutheran Communities.

Planning Board to hear zone-change requests

The Flathead County Planning Board will hold public hearings to consider two zone change requests on Wednesday, Sept. 13.

Julian Leonard 'Len' Derby, 89

Julian Leonard “Len” Derby passed away from natural causes Aug. 28, 2017, at The Springs of Whitefish. He was 89.

Eureka teen wins hearing aids

Eureka’s DaySha Brown couldn’t believe her ears when she got the call: she had won a pair of custom hearing aids courtesy of the Hearing Aid Institute of Kalispell.

Man's feathers ruffled by trespassing poultry

A man told Kalispell Police he wanted his neighbors charged after their chickens allegedly entered his yard.

Kalispell man headed to prison for intimidation

A Kalispell man was sentenced to prison for felony intimidation after he repeatedly threatened a woman in front of police.

Mary Katrina Deitrick, 91

Mary Katrina Deitrick, 91, passed away Aug. 24, 2017.

KGEZ tower back on Board of Adjustment agenda

A proposal to relocate KGEZ’s radio towers to the West Valley awaits a decision when the Flathead County Board of Adjustment meets Tuesday, Sept. 5.

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Michael Tolomeo-Atwood was recently sentenced in Flathead District Court for reportedly head-butting a detention officer in November.

Glacier turns focus to Rustlers

The Daily Inter Lake

KNOW THE FOE: CMR brings young squad to challenge Glacier

Two programs with strong histories, both Glacier and Great Falls C.M. Russell struggled in the first week of games. Glacier fell down early against defending champ Billings Senior and the Rustlers were stopped short against Helena High. Great Falls Tribune sports reporter Steve Schreck helped us find out how CMR will try to respond in Friday’s game:

Flathead faces confident Capital

By EVAN MCCULLERS

KNOW THE FOE: Helena IR sports editor Troy Shockley previews Capital

Fresh off a 27-19 win over Butte in the season opener, Flathead now stares down one of its toughest tests of the season.

Fuller out as WHS volleyball coach

Jackie Fuller has resigned as head volleyball coach at Whitefish High School.

Busy holiday weekend for prep soccer action

Twenty-six Montana High School Association soccer matches, boys and girls, will be played by area teams over a three-day period this Labor Day Weekend.

Johnston has low round; Polson boys, Whitefish girls team champs

RONAN — Ryggs Johnston easily captured medalist honors at the Ronan Invitational golf tournament on Thursday.

Sandpoint stymies Stillwater

SANDPOINT, Idaho — The young Stillwater Christian soccer team couldn’t keep pace with Sandpoint, losing 8-0.

Man withdraws plea in sex assault case

George Wilcoxen of Bigfork will face a jury on a felony sexual assault charge after withdrawing an Alford plea following the judge’s rejection of a binding plea agreement before a packed courtroom on Aug. 30.

Resources stepped up for Eureka area fire

Management of the nearly 6,000-acre Gibralter Ridge Fire east of Eureka today will transition from a Type III Incident Team to a Type II Team to increase resources as Northwest Montana remains on high fire alert.

Lake McDonald Lodge closes early due to smoke

Lake McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park closed for the season on Wednesday due to air-quality concerns from the Sprague Fire and other regional fires.

Legals August 30, 2017

No. 24792 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR RURAL SPECIAL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT NO. 156 (BIGFORK STORMWATER IMPROVEMENTS) RE: ASSESSOR NO. 0014999 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on September 5, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. the Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on the recalculation of the special assessments for RSID No. 156. On August 26, 2015, the Board of County Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana (the "County"), adopted Resolution 2398D (the "Resolution"), a resolution creating Rural Special Improvement District No. 156 (the "District"), for the purposes of financing the costs of certain local improvements (the "Phase IV Improvements") to complete the Bigfork Stormwater Project (the "Project") and for paying the costs of maintaining the Bigfork Stormwater system and paying costs incidental thereto. The property assigned Assessor No. 0014999 is a new condominium unit that falls within the District boundary of RSID No. 156. Assessor No. 0014999 was not established at the time of District creation and, therefore, is not currently on the RSID No. 156 District Assessment Roll. Montana Code Annotated § 7-12-2151 mandates that an increase in the number of benefitted lots, tracts, or parcels within the boundaries of the RSID requires a recalculation of the amount assessable to each lot, tract, or parcel. It is proposed that the property assigned Assessor No. 0014999 shall be incorporated into RSID No. 156, and this property shall have the same assessments levied against it starting with the 2017 tax year as all other properties included within the boundaries of RSID No. 156, now and hereafter. The assessments for all other properties included within the District shall be reduced accordingly to reflect the addition of Assessor No. 0014999, now and hereafter. On Tuesday, September 5, 2017, at 10:30 a.m. in the Commissioners' Chambers, Third Floor, Flathead County Courthouse, 800 S. Main, Kalispell, MT, the Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and pass upon all objections, whether made orally or in writing, at the public hearing to the levy of the special assessments for Assessor No. 0014999 and the associated adjustments to all other properties included within the District. Dated this 21st day of August, 2017. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Flathead County, Montana By: /s/ Gary D. Krueger Gary D. Krueger, Chairman August 23, 30, 2017 MNAXLP

Suspected burglar was really woman's son

Whitefish Police Department received a report of a break-in attempt at a Wisconsin Avenue residence when a woman reportedly heard a screen being taken off a basement window. She found the screen had indeed been taken off the window, however, she learned that the would-be burglar was her son sneaking back into the house.

Relief efforts underway in Montana

As rain continues to pour down on coastal areas of Texas in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, Flathead Valley churches and the Red Cross of Montana are among those responding with disaster relief.

Brian Loucks, 37

Brian Scott Loucks passed away on Aug. 27, 2017.

Red-flag alert issued for Flathead as

A forecast of temperatures in the low 90s and a 20 to 30 percent chance of thunderstorms has prompted the National Weather Service to issue a red-flag alert for Wednesday night through Thursday night for the Flathead Valley

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Flathead County Health Department; 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Park Side Credit Union, Whitefish.

Harvey's staggering destruction

When we were putting a story on Saturday’s front page about Hurricane Harvey making landfall, we never would have guessed that the devastation would still be unrolling five days later.

Experience Day in Evergreen

Community collaborates to provide services to students

By HILARY MATHESON

Stage 2 fire restrictions continue

Stage 2 fire restrictions remain in effect throughout most of Flathead County.

No headline

It is the duty of any elected or appointed official, be it county commissioners, municipal judges or city planners, to consider the input on the community at large before rendering any final opinion or approval of the matter at hand. When one person or a small group of people propose a zoning expansion, or commercial development that will adversely affect and disrupt an entire community, the burden of the final decision of the arbitration is entirely on the elected or appointed officials.

Roxanna Dorothy Marie Menish, 61

Roxanna Dorothy Marie Menish, 61, passed away unexpectedly on June 7, 2017.

Narcissist Trump is everybody's problem now

Time for the rest of white America to grow up. Those who support this president can now consider themselves culpable in the nuclear narcissists’ tantrum going on between two king babies — Donald J. Trump and Kim Jong-un. There is a reason we don’t let toddlers play with guns, and it is the very same reason disordered personalities should never have the launch codes to a nuclear arsenal.

Legals August 29, 2017

No. 24742 NOTICE OF BANK MERGER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that applications have been made to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"), the Colorado Division of Banking ("Colorado DoB"), and the Montana Division of Banking and Financial Institutions ("Montana DBFI") for consent to merge Collegiate Peaks Bank, 105 Centennial Plaza, Buena Vista, Colorado 81211, with and into Glacier Bank, 49 Commons Loop, Kalispell, Montana 59901, with Glacier Bank as the surviving institution. Upon consummation of the merger, it is contemplated that all offices of the above-named institutions will continue to be operated, and the former branch offices of Collegiate Peaks Bank will be operated as branches of Glacier Bank, under the name and as part of "Glacier Bank" or "Collegiate Peaks Bank, a division of Glacier Bank." Any person wishing to comment on this application may file his or her comments in writing with (i) the regional director of the FDIC at its regional office, 25 Jessie Street at Ecker Square, Suite 2300, San Francisco, California 94105 and (ii) the Commissioner of the Colorado DoB at 1560 Broadway, Suite 950, Denver, Colorado 80202, and (iii) the Commissioner of the Montana DBFI at P.O. Box 200546, Helena, Montana 59620-0546. The closing date of the public comment period is Tuesday, September 5, 2017. The non-confidential portions of the application are on file at the appropriate FDIC office, the Colorado DoB, and the Montana DBFI and are available for public inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the non-confidential portions of the application file will be made available upon request to the FDIC, the Colorado DoB or the Montana DBFI. Publication Dates: August 4, August 11, August 16, and August 29, 2017 in the Daily Inter Lake and Denver Post. August 4, 11, 16, 29, 2017 MNAXLP

Lake County sees infestation of rush skeletonweed

BOZEMAN — A Montana State University project aimed at educating state residents about noxious weeds recently investigated a newly discovered rush skeletonweed infestation in Pablo.

New narrative details CFAC's history

A former Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. electrical planner has published a comprehensive online history of the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. plant. From the geology, chemistry, and history of Earth’s aluminum, to the aluminum boom from the 1960s to the 1990s, Richard Hanners’ history tells the whole story, including the rise and fall of Anaconda Aluminum Co. and the Atlantic Richfield Co. ownership of the facility.

No headline

TODay

Kalispell Public Schools ready for new year

School bells will ring in the new year this week in Kalispell Public Schools.

Whitefish wipes out Bigfork

BIGFORK — Whitefish sophomore Anna Cook scored three goals, all of them in the second half, to lead the Whitefish girls soccer team to a 6-1 win over Bigfork in its season opener on Tuesday afternoon.

Young, Whitefish girls win Corvallis meet

MISSOULA — Whitefish’s Gracie Young edged the field by two strokes to win the Corvallis Golf Meet on Tuesday at the University of Montana Golf Course.

Bigfork rallies past Breakers

MISSOULA — Bigfork rallied from a slow first set, dominating the next three sets in a 3-1 Western B conference volleyball victory over Missoula Loyola-Sacred Heart on Tuesday.

Wildfires continue to grow in western Montana

The Lolo Peak Fire outside Missoula experienced a climb in activity Sunday as drier air returned to the area and humidity dropped.

Bike bandit brings back the booty

Kalispell Police officers located a male riding an allegedly stolen bike. When confronted, the man reportedly admitted to having taken the bike from a grocery store and was escorted back to the store to return it.

Bear activity prompts Tally Lake Campground closure

The Tally Lake Ranger District on the Flathead National Forest is temporarily closing the Tally Lake Campground and Day Use Area for public safety following several reports of bear activity this last week in the campground.

Man pleads not guilty to felony robbery charges

The passenger of a vehicle involved in an alleged armed robbery where he brandished a gun pleaded not guilty to two felony charges in Flathead District Court on Aug. 17.

Ronan man charged in fatality case

A Ronan man has been charged in the Aug. 20 death of Jessie Qualtier, 36, of Ronan.

Wynona Doreen 'Nonie' Chapman Mathison, 89

Wynona Doreen “Nonie” Chapman Mathison, 89, passed away Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017.

Eldora (Dode) Altenburg, 91

Eldora (Dode) Altenburg passed away Saturday, Aug. 26, 2017.

Legals August 28, 2017

No. 24798 MONTANA ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FLATHEAD COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Randolph K. Nigg Deceased cause no. DP-16-127C NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of the above named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. A written statement of the claim indicating the name and address of the claimant, the basis of the claim and the amount claimed may be filed with the Clerk of District Court, Flathead County, Montana, or mailed, return receipt requested, to the Personal Representative at the following address: Lavern Nigg, 131 N. Cedar Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901. DATED this 24th day of August, 2017. /s/ Lavern Nigg Personal Representative August 28, September 4, 11, 2017 MNAXLP

Landfill manager: Handling garbage is complex business

As Jim Chilton contemplates the day ahead in an office filled with shelves of thick reports and binders full of water-quality and air-quality monitoring data, it’s clear there’s a lot more to running the county landfill than making space for garbage.

No headline

- Flathead County Democratic Women meet at Hilton Garden Inn, Kalispell. Social at 11:30 a.m. followed by noon buffet lunch for $14. For reservations, call Lynne Bradley, 756-9245; or Judy Cox, 755-1507.

New school year set to begin

A new school year is here with many school districts in the Flathead Valley starting Wednesday, Aug. 30. Columbia Falls and West Valley students start Thursday, Aug. 31.

County ready to adopt $90.3M budget

Flathead County’s taxable valuation has increased considerably because of a strong local economy, but whether property owners’ taxes will go up and down depends on the state’s new appraisals for individual properties.

Loud group gathers to watch fight

A Glenwood Road resident called the Whitefish Police Department to report a loud party going on nearby. The caller said there were a lot of male voices yelling, and requested that police tell the group to keep the noise down and close the doors. Officers found that the gathering wasn’t a party, but a group watching the fight on TV together. They agreed to close their doors to help with the noise.

Kalispell council tackles stormwater fee study

A study that recommends a 10.3 percent increase in Kalispell stormwater impact fees is the focus of a City Council work session on Monday, Aug. 28.

Attendance up at the Northwest Montana Fair

Preliminary tallies show that attendance was up nearly 4 percent at this year’s Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo. Approximately 79,500 people attended various events, concerts, rodeo performances and exhibits Aug. 16-20 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

Kalispell man charged with sexual assault

Daily Inter Lake

Kalispell to host Governor's Conference on Aging

Nearly a quarter of Flathead County residents are over the age of 60, and the graying trend is showing no signs on slowing down. By 2025, the 60-plus population is expected to hit 26.8 percent, up from 24 percent in 2013, further increasing demand for medical services, according Flathead County’s Agency on Aging.

Legals August 27, 2017

No. 24800 CITY OF COLUMBIA FALLS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS The Columbia Falls City-County Planning Board will hold a public hearing for the following items at their regular meeting on Tuesday, September 12th at 6:30 p.m. at the Council Chambers of City Hall, 130 6th Street West, Columbia Falls, Montana. The Columbia Falls City Council will hold a subsequent hearing on September 18th, 2017 starting at 7:00 p.m. in the same location. Request for a Zone Change in the Columbia Falls Zoning Jurisdiction: Swan Mountain Real Estate Holdings, LLC, applicant, and Lester Elletson, land owner, request to amend the zoning district map for property in the Columbia Falls Zoning Jurisdiction. The applicants have a contract to purchase 0.42 acres of land that is currently zoned CRA-1 (Residential Apartment). The applicants propose to change the zoning to CB-2 (General Business) or CB-3 (Limited Business) which would allow them to operate their snowmobile guide and rental business and a full time reservation office. The property is located at the corner of Railroad Street and 6th Avenue East North and is described as Lots 1, 2, 3, & 4 of Lot 24 Van's Acre Tracts in Section 9, T30N, R20W, P.M.M. in Columbia Falls. Persons may testify at the hearing or submit written comments prior to the meeting. Written comment may be sent to Columbia Falls City Hall, Attention: Susan Nicosia, City Manager, 130 6th Street West, Room A, Columbia Falls, MT 59912. For more information call Eric Mulcahy, Columbia Falls City Planner at 755-6481. DATED this 23rd day of August, 2017. By: /s/Susan Nicosia Susan Nicosia, CPA, MPA, City Manager COLUMBIA FALLS CITY-COUNTY PLANNING BOARD August 27, 2017 MNAXLP

If we want to save country, common sense must prevail

There comes a point in time when decent people must stand up for what is right and dismiss the idea that by some kind of action we can literally re-write our way into “A more perfect union.”

Flathead Valley cannot escape America's biggest challenges

Those of us who live in the Flathead Valley do so because it’s a lovely place to raise a family, seemingly separate from the traffic, crime, and pollution that many Americans tolerate as part of their daily lives. It also seems a place separate from the uglier racial tensions and prejudices that permeate American life.

Gustafson and Alexander

Ivy Grace Gustafson and Joseph James Alexander were married July 22 at the bride’s family lake lot on Echo Lake in Bigfork.

Editor missed the mark in critique of national media

I’d like to say a few things about the Inter Lake’s managing editor’s “2 cents” column in the June 24 edition (“Trump and the ‘Mean Girls’ of the media”).

Who are the politically correct police and what is their goal?

Who really sets the political social agenda for the United States? Who sets the criteria for someone to be labeled a bigot or racist? Who defines what hate speech is and identifies those who use it? Who establishes the criteria for being a “white supremacist” and who has the authority to label someone as one? Why is it all right for one African-American to call another African-American the “N” word but no other race can use that word? Just what groups can set the “politically correct” (PC) standards for all Americans?

A bold new beginning for Kalispell

The verdict is unanimous — downtown Kalispell is on the cusp of a renaissance.

No headline

Change the name of Flathead High School? (as suggested in a letter to the editor)?

Eradicating history

What will you remove next? Lewis and Clark?

Not surprisingly, the city of Helena has caved in to demands by Indian legislators to remove a memorial to Confederate war dead. Montana’s Indian legislators are bringing ridicule upon themselves, as they have no problem with monuments that honor the United States, which conquered, subdued and exploited them. Meanwhile, the mere existence of a monument in tribute to the Confederate states that were treated similarly by the United States during and after the Civil War, and never had any meaningful contact with the tribes of Montana, strikes terror in the hearts of these once fierce warriors.

VA removes red tape to increase access to care

Imagine the day that you can see your medical provider from anywhere in the country, including from the comfort of your own home. You wouldn’t have to take a full day off of work, travel long distances or spend hours in a hospital waiting room. Thanks to the age of smart phones and other advanced technology, that day has come. And it couldn’t have come at a more critical moment.

The so-far fruitless search for evidence against Trump

I recently read an article in National Review that asked, “When does all the evidence arrive?” The search for proof of Trump-Russia collusion has been going on for months and has, to date, produced nothing more than suppositions, inferences, and possibilities. Without concrete evidence there is no case except in the minds of those longing for it to be true. After all, how could it be explained that Hillary, with her sizable war chest and all of her valuable experience (?), lost to a “buffoon” (a Gene Lyons descriptive word) with no experience?

More letters on rewriting history

“Every record has been destroyed or falsified, every book has been rewritten, every picture has been repainted, every statue and street and building has been renamed, every date has been altered. And that process is continuing day by day and minute by minute. History has stopped. Nothing exists except an endless present in which the Party is always right.”

Cross Country Flathead, Bigfork's Morley dominate Libby Invite

Flathead’s cross country season is off to a fast start.

Glacier boys, girls blank Billings West, Butte in AA soccer

HELENA — Glacier had six different players account for goals in boys soccer match victories on Saturday to open the season at the AA Jamboree.

Libby, Whitefish top 2 at Tipoff

FRENCHTOWN — Northwestern A teams captured the top two places in the Tipoff Tournament versus Southwestern A schools on Saturday.

Rewriting history: It's nothing new

Total perfection: Chasing solar eclipse totality

For those lucky enough to have clear weather on Monday, Aug. 21, the path of totality for the Great American Eclipse gave sky watchers around two minutes of undiluted perfection. While the direct shadow of the moon did cross a small patch of Montana, those who wanted to see the real power of a total eclipse of the sun had to travel to get to it. And many Montanans chose to do just that.

Grandpa's Barn offers local antiques, vintage pickings

Members of the Blasdel family have a tendency to collect things — lots of things. And after time, they add up.

Neighbor has cat trap fever in Whitefish

An individual contacted the Whitefish Police Department regarding a cat that repeatedly trespassed on their property and sprayed in their windows. The caller said every time they chased the cat, it ran to a neighboring house. The caller expressed interest in trapping the cat.

Man denies assault with weapon charge

A 48-year-old man has pleaded not guilty to felony assault with a weapon in Flathead District Court.

Linda Lillian Williams, 79

Linda “went to be with her family, friends and the Lord” on Aug. 18, 2017. She passed peacefully at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. It was here that she showed her true bravery, strength and faith in the Lord.

Roger H. Elliott, 86

Roger H. Elliott passed away on Aug.1, 2017, at the age of 86 after a lengthy struggle with brain tumors.

Kalispell projects vie for tax credits

Two of eight affordable-housing projects in the running statewide for Montana Board of Housing tax credits are in Kalispell.

Program aims to fill gaps in rural health care

There were 55 miles between Nicole Russell’s childhood home along the Mission Mountains and her primary care doctor in Missoula.

Residents near Lolo Peak Fire allowed to go home

HAMILTON (AP) — The last of the Ravalli County residents who were ordered to leave their homes because of the Lolo Peak Fire have been allowed to return.

No headline

TODay

University touts research at tour stop in Kalispell

Professors and faculty of Montana State University brought the Innovation Road Show to Kalispell Friday evening as part of a statewide mission to share the research and stories developing at the university

Robots and reporting: a shift toward AI

I watched a morning TV news show a couple of weeks ago about artificial intelligence that was fascinating as it showed all of the automation that already exists — robots making pizza and all kinds of other things. It’s no secret robots have become a way of life in many industries. Amazon’s Alexa and iPhone’s Siri, those friendly, life-like virtual assistants, are becoming pretty commonplace.

Program gears up to assist students in need

Voisin makes World Cup finals

The Daily Inter Lake

Flathead, Glacier start soccer play in G. Falls, Helena

The prep golf season began last week, football kicked off Thursday evening and now it’s soccer’s turn to enter the fall sports scene.

Torn bike streamers not intentional

An caller contacted the Columbia Falls Police Department to report their daughter’s bike had allegedly been vandalized. The person said a juvenile female ripped the streamers off the bike. An officer responded to the scene and spoke with the suspect’s grandmother who said she would replace the streamers in about two days. She also noted that the incident wasn’t intentional — her granddaughter reportedly fell and grabbed the streamers to break her fall.

Organizers hope chainsaw event puts Libby on world map

The sawyer-artist overseeing September’s chainsaw carving contest in Libby believes the event will put the city on the world map of such competitions.

Whitefish High graduate travels abroad to learn Arabic

Makkie Haller has set her sights on working for the U.S. Department of State. In doing so, the 2017 Whitefish High School graduate has focused her efforts over the past couple of years on learning Arabic.

Child sex offender gets 100 years

Phillip Kevin James Bruinsma, 42, was sentenced to two concurrent 100-year terms in Montana State Prison — accused of sexually abusing and raping children.

Fire crews make strides; rain brings little relief

Three wildfires in Northwest Montana this week reached important milestones, though firefighters aren’t out of the woods yet.

Flathead Football vs. Butte

Photos from Flathead football’s 27-19 victory over Butte on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2017.

Gianforte booked after assault conviction

HELENA — Montana U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte was photographed and fingerprinted Friday, days after a judge ordered him to be booked after pleading guilty to assaulting a reporter on the eve of the special election that put him in office.

Couple arrested in connection to death in Lincoln County

LIBBY (AP) — Law enforcement officials say an Idaho couple has been arrested in connection to a suspicious death in northwestern Montana.

Kalispell woman gets 10 years in child pornography case

A Kalispell woman was sentenced to 10 years in Montana Women’s Prison for her reported involvement editing pornographic photos of children following emotional and tearful testimony from a victim and a mother of some of the victims.

Legals August 25, 2017

No. 24765 MONTANA ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FLATHEAD COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF THERESA WELTY Deceased cause no. DP-16-061D NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative of the above named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Floyd Welty, the personal representative, return receipt requested, at 321 9th Ave. West, Kalispell, MT 59901, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. I declare under penalty of perjury and under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct. DATED this 8th day of August, 2017. /s/ Floyd Welty Personal Representative August 11, 18, 25, 2017 MNAXLP

Dorm gives FVCC new recruitment tool

Wednesday evening marked the newest milestone for Flathead Valley Community College, with the ribbon-cutting ceremony and official opening of Founders Hall.

Senior slices Wolfpack, 37-21

COLUMBIA FALLS — The state champs haven’t lost a step.

Whitefish 6-2 in pool play; Libby sweeps 3 matches

FRENCHTOWN — Whitefish posted a 6-2 mark in pool play on Friday at the season-opening Northwestern A versus Southwestern A Tipoff Tournament.

Eureka, Bigfork win Class B football openers

EUREKA — Class B state champion Eureka opened the 2017 football season Friday night by thumping Cut Bank 41-0.

Evacuations ordered on new fire near Helena

HELENA (AP) — A wildfire that started after a thunderstorm moved through the Helena area has led to evacuations for several homes in the hills south of the city.

Charles H. Roman, 83

Father Charles H. Roman, 83, died peacefully on Aug. 23, 2017, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Handbag goes missing at wildlife preserve

A woman was reportedly riding her bike near a wildlife preserve when she realized she had set her bag down on the side of the road. When she went back to find it, it was allegedly gone and a woman was sitting on the side of the road nearby. The reporting person accused the woman of being a prostitute and claimed she got into a truck that pulled up and peeled out of the area. The woman never saw the other woman with the bag.

PHOTO GALLERY: Zombie Survival Camp

Kalispell Parks and Recreation hosted Zombie Survival Camp at Woodland Park on Tuesday. Children at the three-day camp learned survival techniques like water purification, making a smokeless fire, tracking, orienteering and building a bow and arrow.

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Labs begin testing state's medical marijuana supply

Roughly 10 miles outside of Whitefish just off U.S. 93 sits a building that appears to be a series of storage units, including one with bars on the windows. Inside is Montana’s first licensed medical marijuana testing facility.

Self-described 'mountain man' in 1984 killing is released

MISSOULA — Self-described “mountain man” Don Nichols was released on parole Wednesday after serving 32 years for kidnapping a world-class athlete out on a training run in 1984 and killing her would-be rescuer — an attack that drew widespread media coverage and became the subject of a made-for-TV movie.

Montana lottery winner thought he won $30

HELENA — Joseph Thompson, of Salt Lake City thought he knew how the story would end when he dropped a Montana Lottery Powerball ticket in the mail last month.

Man accused of burglary spree denies charges

Samuel Robert Hundley, 29, pleaded not guilty to seven felony charges in Flathead District Court after being accused of leading police in a car chase following a rash of Kalispell burglaries in 2016.

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THURSDAY, AUG. 24

Diana Neville Knowles offers portrait painting workshop

Artist Diana Neville Knowles is offering a portrait painting workshop at Hobby Lobby in Kalispell for four days, Aug. 28 through Aug. 31. Each session will begin at 10 a.m. and finish at 5 p.m. with a one-hour break for lunch.

Musician Jay Cravath releases album

While the Whitefish of old lives on in most people’s memories, Jay Cravath keeps the sights and sounds of his childhood alive in music.

SNOW Bus Summer Brewfest in Whitefish

The SNOW Bus Brewfest will be held from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26, at Depot Park in downtown Whitefish. There will be 20 brewers presenting libations, as well as food vendors and live music.

Book reading, signing with author George Bristol

Montana House is hosting guest author George Bristol for an evening reading and book signing from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26.

Auditions announced for 'The Liar'

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions at 6 p.m. Aug. 27 and Aug. 28 for the fall production of “The Liar” at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. Actors should plan to arrive early to fill out an audition application and review the script. WTC is asking everyone to enter at the north side of the building near the new conference room.

'A Timeless Legacy' award winners announced

The Hockaday Museum of Art has announced five award-winners honored Friday and Saturday, Aug. 11 and 12, during the private sponsor event and premier art sale of “A Timeless Legacy — Women Artists of Glacier National Park.”

Confessions of an addict

I’ve been clean for eight years now. But I live with the knowledge that relapse is always just one slip away. And even though the opportunities in Northwestern Montana are limited, it still takes only an oblique stimulation from the environment to bring the memories and that inextinguishable lust rushing back.

Northwest Ballet celebrates 40th season

The Northwest Ballet is celebrating its 40th season of dance education and performance in the Flathead Valley this year.

Whitefish Theatre Co. announces 2017-18 season

Whitefish Theatre Co., celebrating 39 years of community theater, world music and more, has announced its shows for the 2017-2018 season.

Historic Film Club to screen 'Dave'

The Historic Film Club will screen political comedy “Dave” at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 28, at the Museum at Central School in Kalispell.

Deadication Festival hits Columbia Falls Aug. 26

The Deadication Festival is once again coming to Columbia Falls, from 1 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 26. Gates open at noon. This annual event features food, art and music inspired by the Grateful Dead, put on by local musicians and vendors.

Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival takes over Bigfork for eighth annual event

Music is about to take over Bigfork from Aug. 29 to Sept. 2 with the eighth annual Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival.

Zinke won't recommend eliminating any national monuments

BILLINGS — Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke announced Thursday he won’t seek to rescind any national monuments carved from the wilderness and oceans by past presidents. But he said he will press for some boundary changes and left open the possibility of allowing drilling, mining or other industries on the sites.

Legals August 24, 2017

No. 24737 NOTICE OF SALE FOR STATE SCHOOL TRUST LAND The Dept. of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) will offer the following parcels of state land located in Flathead County, for sale at public auction on September 21, 2017 at 9:00 a.m., at the DNRC Northwest Land Office, 655 Timberwolf Parkway, Suite 1, Kalispell, MT under terms and conditions provided herein. Sale No. 848 Acres: 2.111 Legal Description: Lot 1 & 2, Echo Lake, Sec. 5, T27N-R19W Minimum Bid for Land: $520,000 Value of Improvements on Property: $155,000 Location: 1882 Echo Cabin Loop, Bigfork, MT 59911 BID PARTICIPATION A bid packet containing an Offer to Purchase and Bid Deposit Receipt Form and Invitation to Purchase State Land at Public Oral Auction and General Terms & Conditions for Sale is available on the website: http://dnrc.mt.gov/cabinsitesales or from DNRC upon request. For Open House dates go to http://dnrc.mt.gov/cabinsitesales. All persons wishing to participate in the auction, on or before September 1, 2017, must submit a bid deposit in the form of a certified check made payable to DNRC equal to five percent (5%) of the minimum bid indicated for that parcel. In addition, an Offer to Purchase and Bid Deposit Receipt Form must be completed and submitted with each bid deposit. Failure to submit the Offer to Purchase and Bid Deposit Receipt Form as provided herein will prohibit participation in the auction. All Offer to Purchase and Bid Deposit Receipt Forms and payments must be sent to the address shown below. DNRC, Attn: Emily Cooper, PO Box 201601, 1539 11th Ave., Helena, MT 59620-1601, (406) 444-4165 or ecooper@mt.gov. TERMS OF SALE: 1. The improvements and any other personal property on the cabin/home sites are owned by the lessee or other 3rd party. The successful bidder shall be required to pay the appraised value of the improvements in addition to the purchase price of the cabin/home site determined by the highest bid at the auction in accordance with M.C.A. §77-2-318. 2. The minimum acceptable bids for the land are the values indicated above. 3. The parcel will be sold to the high bidder of that parcel. However, the current lessee of the parcel shall retain the option to exercise their preference right for purchase by matching the high bid for that parcel. If that right is exercised, the lessee will be deemed the purchaser of the parcel. If the preference right is not exercised, the high bidder shall be deemed to be the purchaser. The high bidder will be responsible to pay the lessee for the value of improvements located on the property. 4. In addition to the purchase price for each parcel and the purchase of the improvement, the purchaser shall also be responsible for the following costs (if applicable to that particular sale) including, but not limited to: Advertising, Appraisal, Filing fees, Water Right Transfers, Cost of Closing. All inquiries, bid deposits, or requests for forms are to be sent to: DNRC, Attn: Emily Cooper, PO Box 201601, 1539 11th Ave., Helena, MT 59620-1601, (406) 444-4165 or ecooper@mt.gov . August 3, 10, 17, 24, 2017 MNAXLP

Quick scores lift Braves over Butte

BIGFORK — Early in the third quarter, Taylor Morton raced down the sideline with his fist raised high to celebrate with wideout AJ Jones after a score.

Class AA football Title rematch as 'Pack opens against Senior

Glacier will kick off the 2017 season in much the same fashion it ended 2016.

Polson out to defend league crown; C-Falls sets sights on state title

The Northwest A football conference has a new look this fall.

Libby's Johnston wins again at C-Falls Invite

COLUMBIA FALLS — Libby junior Ryggs Johnston didn’t set any records this time out, but easily walked away with medalist honors at the Columbia Falls Invitational on Thursday at Meadow Lake Resort. Johnston shot a 3-under-par 69 to win the golf tournament by six strokes. Hamilton’s Bryce Reed finished second at 3-over 75 to lead the Broncs to a team title.

AA football champ Senior features fresh faces

Glacier football will start its season with a familiar opponent at 7 tonight, playing a championship rematch against Billings Senior in what is one of the state’s most anticipated matchups of the opening weekend.

Eureka, Bigfork prep for new-look Western B

By JOSEPH TERRY

FVCC opens student housing

The newest addition to the Flathead Valley Community College campus is now open and will house around 120 students beginning Friday, Aug. 25.

Fighting words tossed around at C-Falls bar

Three males were reportedly circling a bar with the intention of fighting an individual inside the establishment. A caller contacted the Columbia Falls Police Department and said the males allegedly called him names after the he confronted them. Law enforcement responded to the scene but was unable to locate the males in question.

Dog rescued from Evergreen trailer fire

An electrical fire Tuesday afternoon left an Evergreen trailer uninhabitable after flames torched the kitchen area and caused smoke damage throughout the home.

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Final round of Fourth Avenue paving begins

Crews will begin final preparation and paving for the second phase of the Fourth Avenue East water-main replacement project on Thursday in Kalispell.

Tribal coalition joins blitz to save national monument areas

SALT LAKE CITY — Conservation and tribal groups are airing TV ads, sending letters to President Donald Trump and creating parody websites in a last-minute blitz to stop Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke from downsizing or eliminating national monument areas that cover large swaths of land and water from Maine to California.

Landowners support, Whitefish opposes zoning plan

Property owners along the U.S. 93 corridor south of Whitefish last week got a chance to weigh in on a proposed overlay zone and accompanying zone changes aimed at creating more flexibility in how they can use and develop their property.

Judge overturns ruling on grizzly status

HELENA — Animals and plants can be considered endangered even if they are not on the brink of extinction, a judge ruled in overturning the U.S. government’s re-classification of a small population of grizzly bears living in the forests of Montana and Idaho near the Canada border.

Stabilization work resumes at Whitefish Stage slump

Stabilization work has resumed on a slump-prone bluff off Whitefish Stage Road near Village Greens golf community in Kalispell.

County sets Bigfork, Lakeside green-box fees

Bigfork residents will see their annual green-box garbage collection fee decrease by about $10 for the next tax year, and Lakeside residents won’t pay as much as proposed.

Kalispell man sent to prison for breaking child's arm

A Kalispell man has been sentenced to four years in prison for breaking a 3-year-old’s arm who was in his care.

Topography, snowfall affect retreat of cirque glaciers

University of Montana doctoral candidate Caitlyn Florentine is taking a new look at Sperry Glacier’s retreat, and this particular glacier’s near future isn’t quite as bad as previously thought.

Conservation deal protects habitat in Swan Valley

A wildlife landscape previously threatened by potential development in Northwest Montana is now in the public’s hands.

Players hold breath as $700M Powerball jackpot drawing nears

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Lottery players across the U.S. are scooping up $2 Powerball tickets in hopes of beating the odds and winning a massive $700 million jackpot as Wednesday night's drawing nears.

Legals August 23, 2017

No. 24792 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR RURAL SPECIAL IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT NO. 156 (BIGFORK STORMWATER IMPROVEMENTS) RE: ASSESSOR NO. 0014999 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on September 5, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. the Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on the recalculation of the special assessments for RSID No. 156. On August 26, 2015, the Board of County Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana (the "County"), adopted Resolution 2398D (the "Resolution"), a resolution creating Rural Special Improvement District No. 156 (the "District"), for the purposes of financing the costs of certain local improvements (the "Phase IV Improvements") to complete the Bigfork Stormwater Project (the "Project") and for paying the costs of maintaining the Bigfork Stormwater system and paying costs incidental thereto. The property assigned Assessor No. 0014999 is a new condominium unit that falls within the District boundary of RSID No. 156. Assessor No. 0014999 was not established at the time of District creation and, therefore, is not currently on the RSID No. 156 District Assessment Roll. Montana Code Annotated § 7-12-2151 mandates that an increase in the number of benefitted lots, tracts, or parcels within the boundaries of the RSID requires a recalculation of the amount assessable to each lot, tract, or parcel. It is proposed that the property assigned Assessor No. 0014999 shall be incorporated into RSID No. 156, and this property shall have the same assessments levied against it starting with the 2017 tax year as all other properties included within the boundaries of RSID No. 156, now and hereafter. The assessments for all other properties included within the District shall be reduced accordingly to reflect the addition of Assessor No. 0014999, now and hereafter. On Tuesday, September 5, 2017, at 10:30 a.m. in the Commissioners' Chambers, Third Floor, Flathead County Courthouse, 800 S. Main, Kalispell, MT, the Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing and pass upon all objections, whether made orally or in writing, at the public hearing to the levy of the special assessments for Assessor No. 0014999 and the associated adjustments to all other properties included within the District. Dated this 21st day of August, 2017. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Flathead County, Montana By: /s/ Gary D. Krueger Gary D. Krueger, Chairman August 23, 30, 2017 MNAXLP

Hospital takes more strides forward

Kalispell Regional Healthcare quietly broke ground this summer on yet another expansion project.

Gianforte needs to rise to the next level

The managing editor’s profoundly simple “do the math” theme of his June 11 “Editor’s 2 Cents” column makes perfectly good sense. Rep. Gianforte has committed just one lone “violent incident” compared to a couple more such incidents attributed to Sen. Lee Metcalf, thusly, it is concluded, that “Montana’s original hot head in Congress” is not Gianforte, but, indeed, it is Metcalf.

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Thank you, Matt and Keith Regier, for your recent letters to the editor, for naming names when exposing corruption in the political process in Helena.

A new beginning for Flathead

The Flathead football team entered last season with lofty goals and dreams of playing into late November in head coach Kyle Samson’s third year on the job.

Glacier back in state title hunt

After six straight trips to the state semifinals, Glacier football has cemented itself as a perennial title contender in Class AA. In 10 seasons as a program, the Wolfpack has made the championship game more times than it has missed the playoffs.

Morton's moment arrives as Braves host Butte in Bigfork

Taylor Morton’s aim is to keep everything the same.

Speedy Bulldogs look for redemption

Football is finally back.

Man denies three felony drug charges

A 22-year-old man has pleaded not guilty to three felonies for allegedly possessing heroin and methamphetamine.

Dognapping do-gooder in Kalispell

Someone reportedly stole an injured Chihuahua out of a locked vehicle and took the dog to a veterinarian, according to Kalispell Police. When the owner confronted the suspect, the man refused to tell him which vet he had taken the dog to. The dog was later located and returned to its owner.

Allen Ray Ream, 79

Allen Ray Ream “went to be with his Lord and Savior” on Aug. 19, 2017, after losing his 45-year battle with Huntington’s disease.

Event highlights state's outdoor economy

The thriving state of Montana’s outdoor economy was the talk of the town at the Last Best Outdoors Fest held Tuesday at The Coop in Columbia Falls. The celebration, hosted by Business for Montana’s Outdoors (BFMO) and the Montana Brewer’s Association, focused on celebrating the state’s booming outdoors industry with food, craft beer and music, preceded by a panel discussion on the economic value of public lands.

New district ranger hired for Spotted Bear

Scott Snelson has been hired as the new Spotted Bear District Ranger for the Flathead National Forest. He replaces Deb Mucklow, who retired earlier this year.

Rifle optics manufacturer relocating to Kalispell

A manufacturing company that has been building custom rifle scopes and optics for 26 years in Southern California is relocating to Kalispell.

Jury refuses to convict in Nevada ranch standoff

LAS VEGAS — A federal jury in Las Vegas refused Tuesday to convict four accused gunman in a 2014 standoff with federal authorities near the Nevada ranch of states’ rights figure Cliven Bundy.

93 Bypass a finalist for national award

The U.S. 93 bypass around Kalispell is in line for another award.

Work begins on new rail park

Dozens gathered in a dusty lot off Whitefish Stage Road on Tuesday morning to celebrate the long-anticipated groundbreaking of the Glacier Rail and Industrial Park. As Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson kicked off the ceremony, he described the project as the first step in “transforming the city of Kalispell.” This, he said, would be a moment in history the town would look back on 50 years from now with pride.

Legals August 22, 2017

No. 24789 PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Intent to Transfer Location of Air Quality Permit (Pursuant to Section 75-2-211, MCA, and ARM Title 17, Chapter 8, Subchapter 7, PERMIT, CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF AIR CONTAMINANT SOURCES). Knife River will file on or about 08/21/2017 a notification of intent to transfer location of an air quality permit with the Permitting and Compliance Division/ Air Resources Management Bureau of the Montana Department of Environmental Quality. Applicant seeks approval of its transfer of location of Crushing and Screening Plant. Air Quality Permit # 2978 to Section 23, Township 30N, Range 21W, Flathead. 493 Hodgson Road, Kalispell, MT. The division must approve or disapprove the permit transfer within 30 days of receipt of a complete notice of intent. Any member of the public with questions or who wishes to review a copy of the permit and the division's analysis of it, or to submit comments on the change of location must contact the division at 1520 East Sixth Street, P.O. Box 200901, Helena Montana 59620-0901-phone (406)-444-3490. Any comments on the location transfer must be submittied to the division within 15 days after the date of this publication. August 22, 2017 MNAXLP

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C-Falls boys win host invite

WEST GLACIER — The Columbia Falls boys bested half of the Western A in the first of two host golf invitationals this week, beating Frenchtown, Ronan and Corvallis on Tuesday at Glacier View Golf Course.

Mercer, McDaniel win Missoula Invite

MISSOULA — Flathead freshman Marcella Mercer won her first high school tournament in only her second outing, taking the Missoula County Invite on Tuesday at Canyon River Golf Club.

Watching the solar eclipse

Locals gathered around valley to witness event

Kalispell community comes together for eclipse

By 11:10 a.m. Monday, a crowd of several hundred people had gathered on a lawn at Flathead Valley Community College to watch the solar eclipse. There was still a line of about two dozen people hoping to pick up safety viewing glasses, but most everyone was already watching the action while Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart” played over the loudspeakers.

Angry man starts throwing things

A woman’s angry boyfriend was reportedly throwing things, including her dinner. When the boyfriend approached her while she was on the phone, he was reportedly heard saying “you can’t say you’re not mad,” before the line went dead. On a call back from Kalispell Police Department, the situation was reportedly calm and the boyfriend was going to leave.

Entertainment drives strong fair numbers

Buoyed by good weather and a strong local economy, the Northwest Montana Fair reported increases in gate admissions, entertainment sales and carnival revenue for last week’s five-day fair.

Wisconsin Avenue plan details future of key Whitefish road

A plan for how the primary highway north of the railroad tracks in Whitefish should develop over the next two decades will be unveiled at a meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 23.

Whitefish schools' budget includes $700,000 increase in spending

The Whitefish School Board has approved a budget for 2017-18 that totals $18.6 million or a roughly $700,000 increase from last year.

Carson sees 'moral duty' to give Native Americans a chance at prosperity

Ben Carson, secretary of housing in the Trump administration, visited Polson on Monday afternoon and said there is a “moral duty” to ensure Native Americans have the same opportunity to prosperity as others.

Kalispell woman sentenced for heroin trafficking

COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — A Kalispell woman who transported a bag of heroin inside her vagina will spend three years in prison on a trafficking conviction, according to a ruling by a Coeur d’Alene judge earlier this month.

Woman pleads not guilty in child endangerment case

Linda Carrie Williams, 41, pleaded not guilty to felony criminal child endangerment in Flathead District Court on Aug. 10.

Lolo Peak Fire destroys at least 2 homes

Two homes in the upper Folsom Road area were completely destroyed in the Lolo Peak Fire on Aug. 18 and multiple other structures reportedly have been lost as well, according to the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office. The homeowners from Folsom Road had been evacuated and have been notified of the loss.

Monday morning fire closes Finnegan's until further notice

A kitchen fire broke out early Monday morning at Finnegan’s Family Restaurant on East Idaho in Kalispell.

Legals August 21, 2017

No. 24773 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE To be sold for cash at a Trustee's Sale on September 26, 2017, 11:00 AM at the main entrance of the Flathead County Justice Center located at 920 Main Street, Kalispell, Montana 59901, the following described real property situated in Flathead County, State of Montana: That portion of the Northeast One-Quarter (NE1/4) of Section Twenty (20) and the Northwest One-Quarter (NW1/4) of Section Twenty-One (21), Township Thirty (30) North, Range Twenty-One (21) West, Principal Meridian, Montana, Flathead County, Montana, known as: Tract 1 of Certificate of Survey No. 6699. More commonly known as 4780 Whitefish Stage Road, Whitefish, MT 59937. Kari Mariah Jurgens and Scott M. Cremeans, as Grantors, conveyed said real property to Whitefish Title Services, Inc., as Trustee, to secure an obligation owed to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Mann Mortgage LLC, its successors and assigns , by Deed of Trust on September 25, 2006, and filed for record in the records of the County Clerk and Recorder in Flathead County, State of Montana, on October 2, 2006 as Instrument No. 200627516280, of Official Records. The Deed of Trust was assigned for value as follows: Assignee: Bank of America, N.A., successor by merger to BAC Home Loans Servicing LP FKA Countrywide Home Loans Servicing LP Assignment Dated: September 29, 2011 Assignment Recorded: October 12, 2011 Assignment Recording Information: as Instrument No. 201100020850 All in the records of the County Clerk and Recorder for Flathead County, Montana Benjamin J. Mann is the Successor Trustee pursuant to a Substitution of Trustee recorded in the office of the Clerk and Recorder of Flathead County, State of Montana, on November 9, 2016 as Instrument No. 201600025007, of Official Records. The Beneficiary has declared a default in the terms of said Deed of Trust due to Grantor's failure to make monthly payments beginning June 1, 2016, and each month subsequent, which monthly installments would have been applied on the principal and interest due on said obligation and other charges against the property or loan. By reason of said default, the Beneficiary has declared all sums owing on the obligation secured by said Trust Deed immediately due and payable. The total amount due on this obligation is the principal sum of $273,745.23, interest in the sum of $8,180.45, escrow advances of $6,335.43, other amounts due and payable in the amount of $1,570.32 for a total amount owing of $289,831.43, plus accruing interest, late charges, and other fees and costs that may be incurred or advanced. The Beneficiary anticipates and may disburse such amounts as may be required to preserve and protect the property and for real property taxes that may become due or delinquent, unless such amounts of taxes are paid by the Grantor. If such amounts are paid by the Beneficiary, the amounts or taxes will be added to the obligations secured by the Deed of Trust. Other expenses to be charged against the proceeds of this sale include the Trustee's fees and attorney's fees, costs and expenses of the sale, and late charges, if any. Beneficiary has elected, and has directed the Trustee to sell the above described property to satisfy the obligation. The sale is a public sale and any person, including the Beneficiary, excepting only the Trustee, may bid at the sale. The bid price must be paid immediately upon the close of bidding in cash or cash equivalents (valid money orders, certified checks or cashier's checks). The conveyance will be made by Trustee's Deed, without any representation or warranty, including warranty of title, express or implied, as the sale is made strictly on an as-is, where-is basis, without limitation, the sale is being made subject to all existing conditions, if any, of lead paint, mold or other environmental or health hazards. The sale purchaser shall be entitled to possession of the property on the 10th day following the sale. The Grantor, successor in interest to the Grantor, or any other person having an interest in the property, has the right, at any time prior to the Trustee's Sale, to pay to the Beneficiary, or the successor in interest to the Beneficiary, the entire amount then due under the Deed of Trust and the obligation secured thereby (including costs and expenses actually incurred and attorney's fees) other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred and by curing any other default complained of herein that is capable of being cured by tendering the performance required under the obligation or to cure the default, by paying all costs and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the obligation and Deed of Trust with Successor Trustee's and attorney's fees. In the event that all defaults are cured the foreclosure will be dismissed and the foreclosure sale will be canceled. The scheduled Trustee's Sale may be postponed by public proclamation up to 15 days for any reason. In the event of a bankruptcy filing, the sale may be postponed by the Trustee for up to 120 days by public proclamation at least every 30 days. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Successor Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. This is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Dated this 19th day of May, 2017. Benjamin J. Mann Substitute Trustee 376 East 400 South, Suite 300 Salt Lake City, UT 84111 Telephone: 801-355-2886 Office Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8AM-5PM (MST) File No. 47893 August 14, 21, 28, 2017 MNAXLP

Teacher shares passion for agriculture

Justin Heupel has stuck with plan A for more than two decades as he’s moved from eastern to western Montana teaching agriculture.

Telephone operators gather for reunion

There was once a workforce in the Flathead Valley that acted as the sole link for people to reach the world outside their home. They were the nameless voices on the other end of the line asking, “How may I connect your call?”

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Deer down in yard causes concern

A Wisconsin Avenue resident told the Whitefish Police Department that there was a buck down in his front yard. He said his neighbors had heard gunshots in the area the night before, and he thought the incidents might be related.

Whitefish ready to adopt $40.9 million budget

The Whitefish City Council is poised to adopt a $40.9 million budget for the coming year and will hold a public hearing on Monday, Aug. 21, before taking final action.

Kalispell council to finalize fee increases, budget

The Kalispell City Council will decide Monday, Aug. 21, whether to increase residents’ urban-forestry and stormwater assessments.

Forest plan delayed until October

A final plan for the Flathead National Forest will be delayed a couple more months. The final record of decision will now likely come out in mid-October Forest Planner Joe Krueger said last week.

Pete G. Bergen, 84

Pete G. Bergen, 84, passed away at home in Austin, Texas, on Aug.14, 2017, due to complications from congestive heart failure. Pete was born on Dec. 24, 1932, to Peter and Agnes Bergen in Hampton, Nebraska, the eldest of five living children.

Publicist: Jerry Lewis, comedian, telethon host, dies at 91

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Jerry Lewis, the manic, rubber-faced showman who jumped and hollered to fame in a lucrative partnership with Dean Martin, settled down to become a self-conscious screen auteur and found an even greater following as the tireless, teary host of the annual muscular dystrophy telethons, has died. He was 91.

PHOTO GALLERY: Northwest Montana Fair

Smiling faces at the Northwest Montana Fair.

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I am offended by Commissioner Phil Mitchell’s total disregard for the property he swore to protect when elected commissioner. His request that county officials “treat me no differently than they would treat any other citizen” is even more offensive. County officials should hold him to an even higher standard with respect to charging and sentencing him in district court. Any official in a position of trust to its citizens should bear a heavier burden in this regard. I hope that this is grounds for removing him from office and I would support anyone who has the knowledge to achieve such a move against him. This is disgusting! —David Mosby, Kalispell

Commissioners take risk with other people's jobs

County commissioners invariably say they want to create jobs and economic development when they’re running for office. It sounds good as part of their campaign shtick, and supporting local business certainly is a laudable goal.

Is it time to rename Flathead High?

I grew up living in northern Wisconsin and lived adjacent to the Red Cliff Indian Reservation. As I grew older, I attended Northland College, where I studied Native American culture with one of the tribal elders. One of the highlights of my musical career was recording a CD (“Woodland Winds”) with a Native American flute player. Both of us had had dreams of using music to help bridge cultures and ease ethnic tension.

Charlottesville and beyond

Readers react to aftermath of deadly confrontation

Recently I’ve seen opinions supporting Donald Trump on the grounds that the stock market is up, along with lame excuses about how he’s new at his job and his comments about Charlottesville should be forgiven. I ask this question: what does it profit our nation to gain the whole world’s economy and lose our own soul?

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The total eclipse of the sun this year is a cost-to-coast phenomenon not experienced in our country for a hundred years. I was in Minneapolis in the late spring of 1954 when the Twin Cities experienced a total eclipse for about 1 1/2 minutes. That was about 63 years ago.

Planning by panic in Glacier Park

The Inter Lake of Aug. 8 contains the headline, “Glacier visitation tops 1 million in July” — not much of a surprise for those who have visited this summer. What is a surprise is that after a July “emergency congestion management workshop,” park managers have decided to make matters dramatically worse at Logan Pass by imposing a one-hour time limit for 60 parking spaces. The stated intent is to provide an opportunity for people who want to make a quick restroom stop, take a few photos, and go for a short walk to be able to do so.

The human cost of hate, and the high price of love

If life were as simple as the mainstream media makes it out to be, then we would have the luxury of never having to think about anything.

Flathead readies for solar eclipse show

People have been watching and documenting solar eclipses for centuries, but for those under the age of 38, Monday’s coast-to-coast total solar eclipse will be a first.

National Guard called to Lolo Peak Fire

National Guard troops were called to the rapidly growing Lolo Peak Fire south of Missoula after it made another big run on Friday.

Fair stock sale tops $500k

The 2017 Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo market stock sale grossed $515,090 Saturday as local 4-H and FFA members bid farewell to their steers, hogs and lambs. This year’s stock sale grossed nearly $138,000 more than last year’s sale.

Whitefish man charged with DUI following car chase

A Whitefish man has been charged following an alleged attempt to elude officers by speeding away in his vehicle, but ultimately leading them to his place of residence.

Mildred Elaine Berner, 98

Mildred Elaine Berner, 98, passed away peacefully Aug. 17, 2017

Iva Pedersen 81

Iva (Meeks) Pedersen was born Feb. 25, 1936, in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Iva moved with her family to Montana in 1945. She attended Russell Elementary School and graduated high school with American Schools.

Fay Lynnette “Lynn” Martinez, 76

Lynn left us peacefully “to her permanent fishing spot above” on Aug. 2, 2017, after 76 amazing years with us. While here, those cool waters always held for her the promise of peacefulness and happiness, and we now trust those waters to carry her into eternity. She is survived by her two daughters, Tanya “TJ” and Belinda, and son Ben; seven grandchildren, Miro, Winter, Corissa, Cassy, Sidonya, Shaelynn and Breaunna; and great-grandchildren, Ian, Austin, Vela and Spencer.

Skunk leaves its mark inside vehicle

A Kalispell Police Department officer checked on a vehicle with its door open. The driver reported they had left the door open to get the skunk odor out.

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TODay

Northwest Montana Fair results

The following individuals earned honors for their award-winning entries at the 2017 Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo:

Passersby give travelers much needed 'lifts'

Sid and Carol Anderson of Kalispell titled their recent letter to the Inter Lake “Kindness and thoughtfulness still live in Kalispell.”

Kalispell Regional names new pediatric facility

The $40 million pediatric facility currently under construction at Kalispell Regional Healthcare has been named the Montana Children’s Medical Center. The hospital made the announcement Wednesday and decided on the moniker to emphasize the program’s statewide scope.

Kalispell woman wins apple pie baking contest

“Holy moly, there’s some pretty ones,” judge Karen Strong said as she examined the field of 20 apple pies at the eighth annual Great American Pie Baking Contest. There were pies with precise lattice work and delicate leaves, and pies with crystallized sugar on top that seemed to sparkle. There were pies with traditional covered tops next to slim pies and round ones about to burst out of their pans.

Legals August 19, 2017

No. 24766 PUBLIC NOTICE: On or after August 21st, 2017, 5:00PM, Ranger Storage LLC, will have a public auction. Gardner Auction Service will conduct the auction at 200 United Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901 and at gardnerauction.com. To be sold for cash, the personal items stored at Ranger Storage LLC, 4181 Hwy. 93 South, Kalispell, MT, by the following persons: Zeke Johns, Hanna Phlaum, Trevor McClain, Leslie Leigh and others that have received notice per MCA 70-6-420. Ranger Storage, LLC Office: 282 4th Ave. WN, Kalispell, MT 59901. Phone 406-752-7867 August 12, 19, 2017 MNAXLP

Jobless rate remains steady in Flathead County

Flathead County’s unemployment rate improved in July, posting at 3.9 percent compared to 4.5 percent in June.

NW Montana Fair PRCA rodeo saves best for last

The Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo saved its best for last.

Libby's Cielak state Mid-Am golf champ

HELENA — Libby’s Joe Cielak won the Montana State Mid-Amateur golf tournament on Saturday at Green Meadow Country Club.

James Russell Durtsche, 71

James Russell Durtsche was born in Kalispell on July 7, 1946, and passed away at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Aug. 15, 2017.

Groceries alleged victim of angry ex

A woman contacted the Kalispell Police Department to report her boyfriend’s ex-girlfriend had allegedly harassed her at the fairgrounds the night before. The reporting party said the suspect reportedly let the air out of her tires and smashed her groceries. An officer spoke with the female in question and advised her to avoid conflict or confrontation.

Blackfeet designer bound for City of Lights

Belinda Bullshoe isn’t your ordinary fashion designer.

Airport poised to expand parking lot

Glacier Park International Airport plans to expand the main airport parking lot by more than 30 percent, adding 224 new spaces to the existing 660 spaces, the airport announced Thursday.

New era begins for Flathead High's marching band

Neighbors living near Legends Stadium on Kalispell’s west side have probably been hearing some new sounds this week.

Whitefish considers mandatory curbside recycling program

The Whitefish City Council will take a closer look at mandatory curbside recycling for city residents during a work session on Monday.

HUD secretary Ben Carson to speak in Polson

On Monday, August 21,

Cigarette likely cause of grass fire near Col. Falls

Columbia Falls firefighters were able to extinguish a grass fire Thursday night before it burned down a garage on U.S. 2 about a half mile south of the Blue Moon.

Sprague Fire grows to 500 acres

The Sprague Fire in Glacier National Park has grown to more than 500 acres and is starting to drop down into both the Snyder and Sprague creek drainages.

PHOTO GALLERY: Northwest Montana Fair Parade

Images from the Northwest Montana Fair parade in downtown Kalispell.

Helena begins removing Confederate memorial

HELENA — The City of Helena on Friday began removing a monument to Confederate soldiers that has been in a public park in Montana’s capital city since 1916.

Legals August 18, 2017

No. 24783 CITY OF COLUMBIA FALLS AUDIT PUBLICATION STATEMENT An audit of the City of Columbia Falls, Flathead County, Montana, has been conducted by Doyle and Associates, P.C. Certified Public Accountants. The audit covered the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016. Montana Code Annotated (MCA) Section 2-7-521 requires the publication of the following summary of Significant Audit Findings. This is only a summary and is not intended to be used as an audit report. Summary of Significant Findings The audit report for the City of Columbia Falls, Flathead County, Montana, for the year ended June 30, 2016 contained the following independent auditor's reports: The independent auditor's report on the City's basic financial statements was unmodified. The independent auditor's report on the City's internal control over financial reporting and on compliance and other matters reported no findings. Public Inspection of Audit Report The audit report is on file in its entirety and can be viewed on the City's website at http://cityofcolumbiafalls.org/finance-and-clerks-office. The audit report is also open to public inspection at City Hall, 130 6th Street West, Room A, Columbia Falls, MT 59912. The City will send a copy of the audit report to any interested person upon request. By: /s/Barb Staaland Barb Staaland City Clerk August 18, 2017 MNAXLP

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Is America being abused? Local businesses along our borders might prosper but what about the remaining tax-paying citizens?

Name that school! Good ideas abound

Kalispell Public Schools is seeking public input on what to name the new elementary school on Airport Road, which is under construction now and is expected to open in August 2018.

Browning bull rider bucks trend

Dakota Louis put an exclamation point on the second round of the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo, pointing the biggest ride of the night in the final trip out of the chutes.

Hill opens season ranked nationally

By JOSEPH TERRY

Cielak, Mance in contention at Mid-Am golf

HELENA — Moving day went the wrong direction for all but two golfers on the second day of play at the Montana State Mid-Amateur golf tournament on Friday at Green Meadow Country Club.

Blue Bay Fire makes run

A wildfire burning east of Flathead Lake flared up Wednesday night, sending up a plume of smoke visible from Kalispell.

Rabbit jumping makes its debut at fair

Onlookers draped themselves over the fence surrounding the bunny jumping competition Thursday at the Northwest Montana Fair. Handlers and their rabbits were spread out beneath the shade of a canopy, some taking time for an extra snuggle with their competitors while others kept a close eye on the competition.

Oregon man charged with trying to kill Montana deputy

MISSOULA (AP) — An Oregon man who spent nearly two weeks in the hospital after being shot by a Montana sheriff’s deputy is charged with trying to kill the deputy during a pursuit in southwestern Montana.

Wildfire leads to more evacuations near Missoula

HELENA (AP) — A month-old wildfire flared up in Montana, forcing the evacuation of hundreds more homes and devouring another large chunk of forest as the drought-stricken state struggles with one of its worst wildfire seasons in years.

Grandson spooks sleeping grandma

A woman reported to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office that a man was pounding on her windows at night. Terrified, the woman refused to look out the window to see who it was. It was her grandson.

Carl Elias Goble, 89

Carl Elias Goble passed away peacefully late in the evening on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2017, surrounded by his loving family.

Whitefish man accused of making meth

A 30-year-old Whitefish man will be arraigned Aug. 24 at Flathead District Court for two felony counts of operation of an unlawful clandestine laboratory and criminal possession of dangerous drugs.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Finance Committee meets 7:30 a.m., district office, 233 First Ave. E.

Best Food at the Fair contest results

406 Bar and Grill in Kalispell won top honors at the inaugural Best Food at the Fair contest at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo.

Rash of burglaries hit Kalispell churches, businesses

The Kalispell Police Department is warning residents about recent rash of burglaries targeting churches and businesses in the city.

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The following individuals earned honors for their award-winning entries at the 2017 Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo:

1967: Parade with a View

This year, the Daily Inter Lake is sharing some memories of the Northwest Montana Fair from 50 years ago.

'Flash' theater in Kalispell

On Aug. 17, the public is invited to compose a performance in an afternoon, then go out on the town to put on the show. Rebecca Schaffer of Viscosity Theatre will lead this workshop. Ages 9 and older are welcome, no experience necessary, and adults are particularly encouraged to participate.

Action Rentals launches Stillwater Bathtub Races

From noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 26, Action Rentals in Olney will host the inaugural Stillwater Bathtub Races.

Zino and the Bel Aires play on new stage

On Saturday, Aug. 19, Zino and the Bel Aires will perform for the inaugural show at the new LaSalle Grange Theatre.The restored performance center is located on U.S. 2, two miles north of Glacier Park International Airport.

'Night at the Museum' program on Aug. 24

The Miracle of America Museum is holding its monthly “Night at the Museum” event on Thursday, Aug. 24.

'Uncommon Threads: A Weaving of Art and Community'

The Bigfork Art and Cultural Center presents “Uncommon Threads: A Weaving of Art and Community,” on exhibit from Aug. 25 to Sept. 22.

Shops at Station 8 present 'Diva Day: Music and Literature'

The Shops at Station 8 presents “Diva Day: Music and Literature” from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19.

Tyler Childers to play the Remington in Whitefish

Singer-songwriter Tyler Childers will make a tour stop at the Remington Bar in Whitefish on Friday, Aug. 18. He is on tour currently promoting his debut album “Purgatory.”

Last Best Outdoors Fest comes to C. Falls

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., Business for Montana’s Outdoors and the Montana Brewers Association announced they will be hosting the Last Best Outdoors Fest in Columbia Falls to celebrate the jobs and businesses that power Montana’s outdoor economy.

Whitefish Trail Hootenanny set for Aug. 25

With new trails in Haskill Basin nearing completion and plans to Close the Loop around Whitefish Lake, the Whitefish Trail has hit its stride and is celebrating with the annual Whitefish Trail Hootenanny event from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 25, at Depot Park in downtown Whitefish.

Mare Wakefield and Nomad make Whitefish tour stop

Mare Wakefield and Nomad, an award-winning, Nashville-based Americana duo, are on tour this summer and fall promoting their upcoming record “Time to Fly,” set to be released in January. The tour started in the Midwest and circles the nation, ending in Texas in early October.

Painting demonstration by Nicholas Oberling

The Montana House in Apgar Village, inside Glacier National Park, is hosting a live painting demonstration by Nicholas Oberling, renowned Glacier National Park plein air painter, as part of its “Look, Listen and Learn” series. A reception starting at 5 p.m. with a demonstration and talk at 6 p.m. is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 20, at the Montana House Kintla Camp event room.

Love Not Hate holds Summer Block Party

Love Not Hate will hold a Summer Block Party from 4 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 19, at the Coop in Columbia Falls.

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THURSDAY, AUG. 17

All that's to come ... ... the sun is eclipsed by the moon

This week, the most profound art and best entertainment will be provided by Mother Nature herself in the form of a total solar eclipse on Monday, Aug. 21.

Legals August 17, 2017

No. 24761 CALL FOR BIDS Notice is hereby given that the Board of County Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana, will receive bids on FOUR (4) All Wheel Drive Articulated Graders. Specifications may be obtained from the Flathead County Road Department, 1249 Willow Glen Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901. Delivery/shipping will be F.O.B. to the Flathead County Shop at 1249 Willow Glen Drive, Kalispell, Montana, 59901, within ninety (90) days of the signing of a contract for purchase. Each bidder must deposit with his bid a bid security in the amount of ten percent (10%) of lease payments for five (5) years on all four (4) graders to secure his express covenant that if the bidder is awarded the contract, the bidder will, within ten (10) days, enter into a formal contract for the purchase and sale of said unit. Bid security shall be payable to Flathead County and shall be in the form of lawful money of the United States: a cashier's check, certified check, bank money order or bank draft issued by a Montana bank, or a bid bond executed by a surety corporation authorized to do business in Montana. The form of contract and the bid form to be signed are on file and may be obtained at the County Commissioners' Office, located on the third floor of the old courthouse in Kalispell, Montana. The bidder shall include with his bid a contract form to be executed by the parties. Flathead County reserves the right to negotiate the terms of said proposed contract (excluding prices contained therein) and to consider the terms of said proposed contract, including warranty provisions, in determining the award of bid. All sealed bids, plainly marked "All Wheel Drive Articulated Graders", must be in the hands of the Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners, 800 South Main, Room 302, Kalispell, Montana 59901, on or before 8:45 o'clock a.m. on August 21, 2017. Bids will be opened and read at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners' Chambers. The Board of County Commissioners reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to accept the bid deemed to be in the best interest of Flathead County. The award of a bid will be made solely by the issuance of a letter of award to the successful bidder by the Office of the Flathead County Road Department. Dated this 7th day of August, 2017. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Flathead County, Montana By: /s/ Gary D. Krueger Gary D. Krueger, Chairman August 10, 17, 2017 MNAXLP

Construction to begin on Rail Park

Construction of the long-awaited Glacier Rail Park will begin this month, kicking off the transformation of a 40-acre tract off Whitefish Stage Road into a business park that will spur more than $38 million in public and private investment over the coming years.

Montana cowboys put on show

Josh Boka says the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds always seems to bring out the best in him.

U.S. women into Rugby World Cup semifinals

DUBLIN, Ireland — USA joined pool winners New Zealand, England and France in the semifinals of Women’s Rugby World Cup 2017 as the best runner-up across the three pools.

Grattan, NW golfers in the mix at Mid-Am

HELENA — Whitefish’s Brad Grattan is one stroke back after the first round at the Montana State Mid-Amateur golf tournament on Thursday at Green Meadows Country Club.

Reilly, Eskimos sputter in first loss of CFL season

WINNEPEG, Manitoba — A slow first half doomed the Edmonton Eskimos in their first loss of the CFL season, dropping a 33-23 game to the Winnepeg Blue Bombers on Thursday.

Flathead, Glacier set to scrimmage

Flathead head coach Kyle Samson will be in an unfamiliar position when his team takes the field tonight.

Around-the-clock work at Montana's wildfire camps

A 2,000-acre wildfire continues to spread across Gibralter Ridge just 7 miles east of Eureka, consuming timber, brush and anything else in its path. Less than 20 miles away, however, the best chance of controlling what one resident described as a “raging inferno” has set up camp and will remain there until the danger has passed.

Soon-to-be exes have 'one last argument'

A couple told Kalispell Police officers they were parting and having “one last argument” when neighbors reported they were yelling at one another.

Lloyd Edwin Lee, 83

Lloyd Edwin Lee passed away Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2017, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls, after a long battle with Parkinson’s.

Kalispell woman charged with felony arson

A Kalispell woman is in jail after allegedly setting a neighbor’s house on fire out of anger.

Classic rides and new thrills

Ride operator TJ Beitel twisted a long metal bar at the base of the Zipper, tightening the metal supports that hold up the classic carnival ride. The caged buckets hooked to the oval exterior were empty for the moment, but would soon fill with thrill-seeking fairgoers by the time the Northwest Montana Fair carnival officially opened on Wednesday.

Commissioners grant one tax break, deny another

Total Label USA was granted a tax break on Monday by the Flathead County commissioners, but a similar request from Nomad Global Communications Solutions and KK&B Partnership was rejected because the company missed a deadline for its application.

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Horse Show – Open

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TODay

State wildfire fund nearly depleted

HELENA — Montana’s firefighting fund could run out by the end of the week, the state’s budget director acknowledged Wednesday, forcing officials to draw money from emergency reserves to keep crews and equipment on the front lines of the worst collection of wildfires in the U.S.

Neo-Nazi site's publisher says he's got no home on internet

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — A neo-Nazi website’s publisher said Wednesday that he has “effectively been completely banned from the internet” after mocking the victim of a deadly car attack at a white nationalist rally in Virginia.

Park Service rolls back bottled-water ban

The National Park Service on Wednesday discontinued a policy that encouraged parks to ban the sale of bottled water.

Helena commission orders removal of Confederate fountain

HELENA (AP) — The Helena City Commission ordered the removal of a Confederate memorial during an administrative meeting Wednesday.

Libby man convicted of deliberate homicide

Trevor Mercier, the Libby man charged October 2016 in the death of Sheena Devine, was convicted Thursday, Aug. 10 of deliberate homicide and tampering with evidence. The jury took little over an hour to return the verdict.

Legals August 16, 2017

No. 24757 MONTANA 11TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT FLATHEAD COUNTY In re the marriage of: Alea Lyn Kohl Petitioner, and William Albert Kohl, JR. Respondent Cause no. DR-17-273B Robert B Allison Summons for publication THE STATE OF MONTANA SENDS GREETINGS TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT: You the respondent, are hereby summoned to answer the petition in this action, which is filed with the Clerk of this Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to file your answer and serve a copy thereof upon the petitioner within twenty-one days after service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the petition. This action is brought to obtain a dissolution of marriage and to establish a permanent parenting plan for the minor child(ren) of the marriage. DATED this 5th day of July, 2017. PEG L ALLISON Clerk of Court By: /s/ RACHAEL C MITCHELL Deputy Clerk August 9. 16, 23, 2017 MNAXLP

NWMT Fair PRCA Rodeo kicks off today

The Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo looks to kick off in style this weekend with a roll call of world-class cowboys rolling through the Flathead County Fairgrounds today through Saturday.

Ryggs runs away at NWA

Ryggs Johnston didn’t need a tune-up tournament.

Turning Montana into a hockey state

Bill Foley has a big job on his hands.

NHL's Golden Knights ride into Whitefish

WHITEFISH — The Vegas Golden Knights have a strong connection to Whitefish.

Market sale supporters stress value of ag

As Wes McAlpin prepares for this year’s 4-H/FFA Market Livestock Sale on Saturday, he is reminded once again how deep agricultural roots run in Flathead County.

Black bear fails unexpected mascot tryout

A black bear was seen near a high school during a soccer match, according to Kalispell Police. The bear ran toward town before climbing a tree. Fish and Game employees responded to handle the bear.

Noe Gomez, 65

Noe Gomez, 65, of Bigfork, passed away Friday, Aug.11, 2017, at his home.

Howard A. Stockwell, 92

Howard A. Stockwell, 92, passed away in his home in Kalispell on Aug.13, 2017, following a brief battle with cancer.

Mary “Lori” Delores (Bauer) LaVanway, 80

Mary “Lori” Delores (Bauer) LaVanway, 80, passed away on Feb. 8, 2017, at her home in Smith Valley with her husband Carroll by her side.

Travis Paul Collier, 75

Travis Paul Collier was born Oct. 30, 1941, in Wichita Falls, Texas, to Neal and Anne Collier.

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TODay

4-H'er perseveres despite rare disease

Jenessa Levanen carefully made her way around the show arena at the Northwest Montana Fair on Tuesday, stepping along with the aid of a bright blue walker and her lamb Nutella in tow. She wasn’t worried about the other 4-H’ers or even their sheep — it was the sawdust floor that she had her eye on. One errant bump could send her crashing to the ground and in Jenessa’s case, even simple falls were serious business.

Hospital begins work on $12.9M center

In Kalispell Regional Healthcare’s latest stride toward becoming a medical destination, the hospital system has begun construction on a $12.9 million Digestive Health Institute.

Man denies charges in robbery, high-speed chase

Following an alleged armed robbery and car chase in July, David Warrant, 57, has pleaded not guilty to three felony counts of accountability to robbery, felony criminal endangerment and criminal possession drugs in Flathead District Court on Aug. 10.

Hungry Horse man pleads not guilty to drug charge

Richard Glenn Rossbach of Hungry Horse pleaded not guilty to felony criminal distribution of dangerous drugs in Flathead District Court Aug. 10.

Landmark building to be repurposed

The iconic Wright’s Kalispell Lumber building won’t be standing tall for much longer. The 22,000-square-foot structure built in 1939 will be dismantled over the next 12 weeks and reassembled at another location in Kalispell.

New Kalispell elementary school in need of a name

As the first foundation walls have been erected on the south elementary school gym, Kalispell Public Schools has begun a nomination process to name the new school located on Airport Road.

Glacier wildfire grows to 100 acres

A wildfire in Glacier National Park blocking trail access to the Sperry Chalet continued to actively burn Tuesday, having charred about 100 acres since it started Aug. 10. Citing forecasts of more dry weather, fire managers believe the Sprague Fire may continue to burn in some capacity throughout the summer before a snow event this fall.

Legals August 15, 2017

No. 24748 REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services seeks comment on the proposed allocation of Montana Dakota Utilities Universal System Benefit (USB) funds designated for low income energy programs. Draft copies of the proposed allocation of USB funds may be obtained by writing the Department of Public Health and Human Services, 1400 Carter Drive, P.O. Box 202956, Helena, MT 59620-2956 or by calling (406) 447-4276. Written comments must be received at the above listed address by 5:00 PM, Wednesday, August 16, 2017. August 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 2017 MNAXLP

U.S. 93 corridor plan hearing set

By LYNNETTE HINTZE

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- Creston School board meets 7:30 a.m.

Prep golf tees off

Welcome back to Class A, Libby.

Glacier opener shifted to C-Falls

The Glacier football team will open its season a little closer to its namesake national park this fall.

Connolly takes over Glacier softball

Entering its 11th year, Glacier has hired its first alumni as head coach, tabbing 2010 grad Abby Connolly to lead the Wolfpack softball team this season.

Longtime Lincoln County legislator Aubyn Curtiss dies

Longtime Republican lawmaker Aubyn Curtiss, who served in both the House and Senate of the Montana Legislature, died Aug. 9 at her home in Fortine. She was 92.

Garner named MVP of legislative session by state Chamber

Fern receives ‘Champion of Business’ award

Whitefish man, 21, charged with vehicular homicide

A Whitefish man is in jail, charged with felony vehicular homicide while under the influence of drugs, more than a year after his passenger, a 17-year-old Bigfork girl, died from injuries sustained in a crash.

Kalispell man sentenced in intimidation case

A 65-year-old man’s continued refusal to register as a sex offender — maintaining his innocence — in addition to threating to go a killing spree to gain the public’s attention on the county’s criminal justice system has landed him 40 years in prison.

Kalispell Public Schools' budgets released for 2017-18 year

There will be some belt-tightening in Kalispell Public Schools’ budget for the 2017-18 school year as plans are made to tap into reserves to cover expenses and plan a future that will likely include requesting a levy next spring to cover expenditures when the new south elementary opens.

Girls prepared to protect property

Two juvenile females reported that a man wearing dark clothing allegedly broke into a shed on their property and kicked in the screen on a window to the house while the two girls were home alone. Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies were advised to call the house before approaching because the girls were “armed and nervous.”

Aubyn Ann Curtiss, 92

Aubyn Ann Curtiss, 92, has died. The former Montana state senator and representative passed away at her home near Fortine, surrounded by the love and care of her children, relatives and friends on Aug. 9, 2017.

Louis Metz Kimbrell Sr., 93

Louis Metz Kimbrell Sr., 93, passed away Aug. 11, 2017, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Supreme Court rejects request for Nov. 7 election

The Montana Supreme Court has denied a request from a Creston-area resident to force Flathead County to set a Nov. 7 countywide election for a ballot issue on expanding the Egan Slough Zoning District.

Evacuations lifted for Gibralter Fire

The evacuation order put into place Aug. 7 as a result of the Gibralter Ridge Fire east of Eureka has been lifted and residents were allowed to return to their homes at noon on Monday.

Legals August 14, 2017

No. 24715 Montana Eleventh Judicial District Court Flathead County In the Matter of the Name Change of Luann Rae Moriarty Luann Rae Moriarty, Petitioner Cause No. DV-17-626B ROBERT B. ALLISON Notice of Hearing on Name Change This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Luann Rae Moriarty to Luann Rae Peterson. The hearing will be on August 30, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Flathead County. Date: July 18, 2017 PEG L. ALLISON Clerk of District Court By: JENNIFER ANDERSON Deputy Clerk of Court July 24, 31, August 7, 14, 2017 MNAXLP

Donations support ranchers affected by fires

Between 12 and 15 Kalispell FFA and vocational agriculture students started one of the few remaining Friday mornings of the summer hauling 15 tons of hay onto a flatbed truck as part of a larger effort to provide relief to ranchers who lost grazing land by the Lodgepole Complex wildfire in eastern Montana.

Hospital spokesman Jim Oliverson retires

The man that has acted as a voice for Kalispell Regional Healthcare for nearly four decades recently adjusted his silver handkerchief in his suit jacket as he talked about his Montana beginnings at a lumber mill.

Hobbs, McDaniel lead Polson boys in golf opener

BUTTE — Matt Hobbs of Polson opened the Class A high school golf season by winning a scorecard playoff with three other golfers on Monday at the Butte Central Invitational.

Flathead's Mercer leads Great Falls golf

GREAT FALLS — Marcella Mercer’s high school golf career is off to a very notable start.

Police handle parking problems

A caller told the Whitefish Police Department that a truck had parked the wrong way on Spruce Court. Officers contacted the truck’s owner, who said he would park it correctly.

Kalispell woman sentenced in elder abuse case

A Kalispell woman was sentenced for felony elder abuse after being convicted of neglecting her elderly mother, whose body was found in a bed soaked in urine and fecal matter, in a house they shared.

No headline

TODay

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks seeks members for advisory committee

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking up to five volunteer applicants to serve terms of two to three years on the agency’s Citizen’s Advisory Committee that was established in 1996. The primary function of the committee is to increase Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ awareness of emerging issues throughout the region by sharing the perspectives of the increasingly diverse constituencies.

Sonya Palmer, 68

Sonya (Son yo) Palmer passed away on Aug. 4, 2017, at her home in Kalispell at the age of 68 years.

New fire west of Kalispell at 300 acres

Lightning storms over the weekend have resulted in more fires being detected on the Kalispell, Plains, Swan and Libby units of the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. It is now estimated that there have been 34 new fires in these areas since Friday evening.

Let's send Rob Quist to North Korea as a peace ambassador

By RON CARTER

Tribal politics proving George Washington's warning true

Why is it that people become so entrenched in their views that they are unable to change or consider other points of view? In spite of all objective truths to the opposite, people contrive any reason they can to reach the objective their tribe wants. How has this happened?

Fly-fishing industry needs action on climate change

Even though some politicians in Washington want to keep disagreeing with the science, the effects of climate change in Montana can be seen far and wide. Whether it is the spread of mountain pine beetle infestations, increased frequency of wildfires, or extreme drought, climate change threatens to affect the way of life for many Montanans.

Long weekends and Congress' short attention span

As members of Congress look forward to their annual August recess, many congressional observers are once again raising the concern that lawmakers do not spend a whole lot of time on Capitol Hill doing the people’s business. For example, the House was in session for 131 days last year, while the Senate met for 165 days.

New water-sports shop opens in Evergreen

A Bozeman outdoor retailer with more than four decades in the water-sports business has opened Northern Lights Rivers, Lakes & Oceans in the former Replay Sports building on U.S. 2 East.

Here we are again - more live fires and dead trees

My last letter to the editor was in 2003, when Montana was on fire. Here we are 14 years later, and apparently, we haven’t learned a thing! Montana has (well, HAD, before this fire season) 19.39 million acres of national forest, and another 3.443 million acres of forested wilderness area in our beautiful state.

GOP focuses on responsible budgeting in lean times

In lean financial times, families across Montana know that the responsible thing to do is to prioritize spending and, in some cases, cut back on the wants so that the needs of their families can be met. Understandably, Montanans want to see state government take the same actions — prioritize spending, cut back on non-essential government operations and make due with less taxpayer money — until revenues increase.

This week, we'll see you at the fair

Our favorite time of the year has arrived — which means the Northwest Montana Fair is back!

1967

On Sunday, Aug. 13, 1967, exactly 50 years ago today, excitement was reaching a fever pitch as the Flathead Valley awaited the start of the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. The Daily Inter Lake, then as now, played an important role in recording the fair from beginjning to end. Today, we present a sampling of images from that week, mostly taken by photographer Rick Prestbye. If you have memories of the 1967 fair, send them to edit@dailyinterlake.com.

Gore's climate assumptions must be challenged

Al Gore expects us to believe that climate change science is settled. According to the former Vice President, scientists know, with a high degree of certainty, that our emissions of greenhouse gases, 82 percent of which is carbon dioxide (CO2) in U.S., is causing dangerous climate change. The solution, Gore tells us, is a dramatic reduction in our use of fossil fuels, the source of 86 percent of the world’s energy supply.

Stop pointing fingers and face facts about budget

As governor of Montana it’s my job to responsibly manage the state through everything from a difficult fire season and the challenges posed by increasing drought conditions to making sure we take advantage of the opportunities presented by our growing outdoor recreation economy. This includes making tough decisions during lean budget times.

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In his July 27 Inter Lake letter concerning overcrowding in Glacier National Park, P. David Myerowitz defended his advocacy for parking area expansion at Bowman Lake. He did so primarily by disparaging Bob Muth’s fact-based letter of June 8. In an attempt to illustrate that there are no constraints in the 1916 National Park Service Establishment Act, Myerowitz invoked outdated policy options — logging and grazing — from the Act. In reality, the Act merely gave authority to consider logging and grazing. Those activities have long since been considered incompatible with the purpose of national parks. Many national park management policies have changed since 1916 as a result of evolving scientific understanding of natural ecosystems. In contrast, as Muth pointed out, the congressionally enacted purpose of national parks has remained constant through the years. Our understanding of how to achieve it has grown.

Who benefits?

Resistance and chaos are paralyzing our country

Regardless of whether you are a “never-Trumper” or voted for him, the prevalent resistance movement is producing vitriolic discourse and has now become beyond the pale and could easily result in a dangerous outcome. It may not be a real actor as one comedian joked but a “bad actor” carrying out a John Wilkes Booth style tragedy.

Politically correct and intellectually intolerable

There is no issue more clearly delineating right and left (or perhaps I should say right and wrong) than political correctness.

Fire has Eureka residents on edge

While firefighters work around the clock defending homes from the still-growing Gibralter Ridge Fire east of Eureka, the evacuated residents of those homes wait in motels and temporary shelters for some kind of news.

Police receive tip on bear spray incident

Someone called the Whitefish Police Department to report they may have information on “the bear spray incident” in a local park. On Thursday, a parent reported their child incurred chemical burns on their back and legs after playing at the Kiddie Park in Whitefish. The park was closed Thursday so the bear spray could be cleaned off the equipment.

Mary 'Lori' Delores (Bauer) LaVanway, 80

Mary “Lori” Delores (Bauer) LaVanway, 80, passed away on Feb. 8, 2017, at her home in Smith Valley with her husband Carroll by her side.

Judy Carr, 75

Judy Carr, 75, passed away on Jan. 29, 2017, in Omaha, Nebraska, due to a month-long battle with respiratory failure.

Myrna Mae Johnson, 78

Myrna Mae Johnson, 78, of Kalispell, passed “into the light” on Thursday, Aug. 10, 2017.

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- Annual Huckleberry Days Art Festival 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Depot Park, Whitefish. More than 100 artists and food vendors, live entertainment, huckleberry dessert bake-off contest, mobile climbing wall for kids. Free admission.

LaSalle Grange revival

Jack and Catherine Stephens look around the new LaSalle Grange Theatre and marvel at the many small miracles that came together to make their dream come true.

Montana's Health Co-op remains standing as others falter

HELENA — Montana’s health care co-op, one of America’s few remaining alternatives to traditional health insurance, will resume accepting new enrollees Sunday after it voluntarily pulled itself from the state’s insurance marketplace in December.

Lightning sparks 20 new fires west of Kalispell

Lightning from the past couple of nights resulted in numerous new fires burning west of Kalispell on Saturday.

Second grizzly spotted in Big Belt Mountains

Biologists with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks say they have confirmed a grizzly bear sighting on a ranch in the northern Big Belt Mountains. The sighting is the second in the Big Belts this summer and FWP believes it is two separate bears.

Small fires pop up on Glacier's east side

Fire resources continued to attack a number of small fires burning in Glacier National Park on Saturday. The fires were sparked by a violent wind and lightning storm that hit the area on Thursday evening.

Legals August 12, 2017

No. 24646 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Board of Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana, herby gives notice, pursuant to Section 76-2-205(1), M.C.A., that it will hold a public hearing to consider a request from the Flathead County Planning Board to amend the text of the Flathead County Zoning Regulations. The proposed text will create a new overlay use district entitled SWO Highway 93 South Overlay as Section 3.51. The general character of the proposed SWO Highway 93 South Overlay is an overlay district to mitigate development impacts along the Highway 93 South corridor adjacent to the City of Whitefish. The overlay district proposes to add design standards, including landscaping, buffering, signage, architectural design, lighting, and transportation improvements. The Flathead County Zoning Regulations apply in all County zoning districts created under Section 76-2-205, M.C.A., and are on file for public inspection at the Office of the Board of Commissioners, located at 800 South Main, Room 302, Kalispell, Montana, the Flathead County Planning and Zoning Office, 40 11th Street West, and on the Flathead County Planning and Zoning Office's website at: http://flathead.mt.gov/planning_zoning/downloads.php. Documents related to the proposed amendments to the regulations are on file for public inspection at the Office of the Board of Commissioners and at the Flathead County Planning and Zoning Office. The public hearing will be held on the 17th day of August, 2017 at 9:30 o'clock a.m. in the Commissioners' Chambers, Third Floor, Old Courthouse, Kalispell, Montana. At the public hearing, the Board of Commissioners will give the pubic an opportunity to be heard regarding the proposed change to the text of the Flathead County Zoning Regulations. Written comments are encouraged and will be reviewed by the Commissioners prior to the hearing if received by the Flathead County Commissioners' Office at least three business days prior to the hearing. DATED the 27th day of June, 2017. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Flathead County, Montana By: /s/ Gary D. Krueger Gary D. Krueger, Chairman August 5, 12, 2017 MNAXLP

Woods Bay boat wreck under investigation

A caller reported a boat accident to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office at 11:48 p.m. The incident occurred in Woods Bay and was referred to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. FWP Warden Morgan Post declined to provide further details and stated the incident was still under investigation Friday.

Jumping for joy

Twenty-four skydivers packed themselves like sardines into a Twin Otter airplane Thursday afternoon. As the aircraft climbed rapidly above Marion, they made the final adjustments to their gear, examining gauges, buckling helmets and preparing mentally for the imminent rush of free fall.

Montana has nearly 18K medical marijuana patients

BILLINGS (AP) — Montana has registered 10,000 medical marijuana patients since voters approved a ballot initiative that repealed a law that limited each provider to three patients.

County elections clerks criticize Secretary of State

ANACONDA (AP) — County elections officials across Montana criticized Secretary of State Corey Stapleton’s repeated assertions that voter fraud took place during the May 25 special election.

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Whitefish man sentenced in arson case

A Whitefish man received consecutive suspended sentences in Flathead District Court Thursday for felony criminal endangerment and felony criminal mischief after being accused of setting an ex-girlfriend’s Whitefish home on fire in 2013.

Waller and Hosler

Katie C. Waller and Jesse W.H. Hosler were married July 8 at the Conrad Mansion in Kalispell.

Whitefish neighbors help stomp out fire

Crews with the Whitefish Fire Department were dispatched to two separate fires after a windstorm hit the area Thursday evening. Both fires were due to down power lines.

Polson man in deep water over Coast Guard impersonation charges

A Polson man is facing felony charges following allegations that he impersonated a member of the U.S. Coast Guard while on Flathead Lake.

Storm sparks fires in Glacier Park

WEST GLACIER — A violent storm that moved through Glacier National Park Thursday evening triggered about 150 lightning strikes throughout the park, sparking multiple fires.

Legals August 11, 2017

No. 24719 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Board of Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana, hereby gives notice, pursuant to Sections 15-24-1402 and 76-15-103, M.C.A., that it will hold a public hearing to consider the application of Nomad Global Communications Solution and KK+B Partnership, located at 5420 Highway 2 West in Columbia Falls, Montana, seeking the application of tax reducing benefits for the $890,000.00 worth of new construction. If the application is granted, the increased value will be taxed at fifty percent of its taxable value in the first five years after approval; in each year thereafter, the percentage will be increased by 10 percent until the full taxable value is attained in the tenth year. The public hearing will be held on the 15th day of August, 2017 at 9:30 o'clock a.m. in the Chambers of the Board of Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana, Courthouse, Third Floor, 800 South Main Street, Kalispell, Montana. At the public hearing, the Board of Commissioners will give members of the public an opportunity to be heard regarding the application for tax reduction of the Nomad Global Communications Solution facility. DATED this 24th day of July, 2017. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Flathead County, Montana By: /s/ Gary D. Krueger Gary D. Krueger, Chairman July 28, August 11, 2017 MNAXLP

Commissioner's misstep concerning

Flathead County finds itself in an awkward position with one of its own commissioners charged with felony criminal mischief for killing a half-dozen cottonwood trees in a county park on Whitefish Lake near his home.

No headline

In a letter published in the Daily Inter Lake, Duncan Scott accused the Whitefish City Council of violating the public’s constitutional rights. While I seldom weigh in on letters to the editor, the seriousness and significance of Mr. Scott’s accusation merits a response.

Orchard owners press on

“Come on, Bill,” Clarice Bush hollers back to her husband as she climbs a hill through her cherry orchard. Bill, cane in hand, follows behind until he meets his wife beneath the boughs of a Lapin cherry tree, weighed down heavily by clumps of the plump, maroon fruit.

AA Football Flathead, Glacier to play season openers away from Legends Stadium

Flathead and Glacier will each be the home team in their opening games of the upcoming football season. They will not, however, play those games at home.

Woman gets barking mad over animal cruelty

After discovering a dog left in a car with the windows cracked, a woman allegedly became upset and left the scene, saying she intended to return with a hammer to break the window. Whitefish Police told the reporting person that if the woman came back to advise her to call them before breaking the window. They advised the caller to inform the woman that breaking the window would result in the report changing from animal cruelty to more serious charges against her. Officers arrived and located the dog in the car, determining it was never in distress.

Patrick David Meehan, 25

Patrick David Meehan, beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, uncle, father, fiance and friend, 25, passed away at home on Aug. 6, 2017.

Donald Eugene Howard, 83

Donald Eugene Howard, 83, passed away on Jan. 16, 2017, in Bozeman, due to a combination of multiple health issues.

Twila Helen Dopp, 91

Twila Helen Dopp passed away Saturday, Aug. 5, 2017, at her residence in Prestige Assisted Living in Kalispell.

Several small fires in Glacier controlled or out

Glacier National Park fire crews have squashed several small fires in the North Fork area.

Whitefish playground closed after bear spray discharged

The Whitefish Police Department is investigating an incident that forced the closure of the Kiddie Park on Thursday after bear spray was discharged on playground equipment and in the restrooms.

Former Olney fire chief sentenced for embezzlement

A former Olney Fire Department chief has received suspended sentences more than a year after allegations of embezzlement were brought forward by residents and fire district trustees.

Commissioner apologizes for killing trees

Flathead County Commissioner Phil Mitchell has issued letters of apology following a recent charge of felony criminal mischief for allegedly killing six cottonwood trees on a county-owned public park on Whitefish Lake.

No headline

Time to dust off the cowboy boots — the Northwest Montana Fair starts next week, and promises to be a rootin’-tootin’ good time.

Yellowstone visitation down in July and for the year

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — More than half way through the calendar year, Yellowstone National Park has seen about 5 percent fewer visitors so far this year.

Legals August 10, 2017

No. 24718 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Board of Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana, hereby gives notice, pursuant to Sections 15-24-1402 and 76-15-103, M.C.A., that it will hold a public hearing to consider the application of Total Label USA, LLC, located at 500 Label Lane, Whitefish, Montana, seeking the application of tax reducing benefits for the $202,089.00 worth of new construction. If the application is granted, the increased value will be taxed at fifty percent of its taxable value in the first five years after approval; in each year thereafter, the percentage will be increased by 10 percent until the full taxable value is attained in the tenth year. The public hearing will be held on the 15th day of August, 2017 at 9:15 o'clock a.m. in the Chambers of the Board of Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana, Courthouse, Third Floor, 800 South Main Street, Kalispell, Montana. At the public hearing, the Board of Commissioners will give members of the public an opportunity to be heard regarding the application for tax reduction of the Total Label USA, LLC facility. DATED this 24th day of July, 2017. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Flathead County, Montana By: /s/ Gary D. Kruger Gary Krueger, Chairman July 27, August 10, 2017 MNAXLP

New report: State could do more to prevent cancer deaths

Montana could do more to prevent cancer deaths, according to a recent report by a nonprofit that lobbies the goals of the American Cancer Society.

Softball Emeralds finish third at national tournament

KAYSVILLE, Utah — The girls were just looking to get in some out-of-state competition.

Local junior golfers at regional competition

Nine young Flathead Valley golfers will be taking part in the PGA Junior League Golf Final Four on Sunday at Three Lakes Golf Club in Malaga, Washington.

CFL: Reilly leads Eskimos to historic win

OTTAWA, Ontario — It wasn’t an easy win for Mike Reilly and the Edmonton Eskimos. Then again, they rarely seem to come that way.

'Yuppies' give Bigfork man problems

A Bigfork man told Flathead County Sheriff’s officers he wanted to get a reaction from the “yuppies” who allegedly give him problems, which he said is why he set up a target across a roadway and started firing at it. Officers told the man the message had been received.

Larry McIlhargey, 67

Larry McIlhargey, 67, passed away peacefully Monday, Aug. 7, 2017, in Kalispell, after a long battle with cancer.

Several small fires close some Glacier Park trails

Glacier National Park has closed some trails and a portion of the Inside North fork Road from Polebridge down to Logging Creek as it battles several small fires in the region.

Commissioner faces felony charge

A Flathead County commissioner has been charged with felony criminal mischief.

Golden Knights making trip to Whitefish

By JOSEPH TERRY

Strong winds fan Eureka wildfire

The lightning-caused Gibralter Ridge Fire east of Eureka has grown to more than 1,100 acres since Monday night.

Air quality alert sounded for Montana

With wildfire smoke stretching across Montana, the state has issued an air quality

Legals August 9, 2017

No. 24756 AUDIT PUBLICATION STATEMENT An audit of the Bigfork Fire District has been conducted by Denning, Downey & Associates, CPA's, P.C. The audit covered the fiscal year ended June 30, 2015 and June 30, 2016. Section 2-7-521, MCA, requires the publication of the following summary of significant findings. Summary of Significant Findings The audit report for the Bigfork Fire District for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2015 and June 30, 2016, were unmodified. The audit report also contained several other auditor's reports. Following is a list of the reports and a summary of the findings included in each. This is only a summary and is not intended to be used as an audit report. 1. Report on Compliance and on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting Based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed in Accordance with Government Auditing Standards. This report contained findings in the following matters: a. Pension Plan b. Outstanding Warrents (Fiscal Year 2015 only) 2. Report on Other Compliance, Financial and Internal Accounting Control Matters. This report contained no findings. 3. Report on Audit Report Recommendations. This report summarized the findings from the prior audit report, and noted the action taken on them. a.. Internal Control-Implemented b. Overstatements of Accounts Receivable-Implemented c. Outstanding Warrents-Implemented for Fiscal Year 2016 Public Inspection of Audit report The complete audit report is on file in its entirety and open to public inspection. August 9, 2017 MNAXLP

Bruce E. Getter, 80

Bruce E. Getter passed away on July 30, 2017, at his home in Whitefish.

Dry weather creates dust problem on county roads

The lack of rainfall this summer has exacerbated the dust and washboard effect on Flathead County’s 500 miles of gravel roads, prompting road officials to remind motorists to slow down.

Eugenia Ford Tartaglino, 53

Eugenia F. Tartaglino passed away on Friday, Aug. 4, 2017, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Dorothy Mae (Saddler) (Anderson) Johnson, 94

Dorothy Mae (Saddler) (Anderson) Johnson, 94, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017, at Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell. She was born in Puposky, Minnesota, to Clyde and Grace (Durand) Saddler on Dec. 10, 1922. Dorothy grew up in Puposky, graduating from the Bemidji High School Class of 1939 with honors.

Rising fees raise hackles in Kalispell

A crowd filled the Kalispell City Council chambers Monday to talk about proposed fee increases — many asking city leaders to find another way to cover rising costs.

A Cleveland comeback for Brock?

No matter how much abuse is heaped on Brock Osweiler by NFL pundits, he will always have friends and fans in the Flathead.

No headline

I was shocked and amazed that Judge Molloy shut down the Montanore mine application once again! Astounding!

No headline

TODay

Kalispell man back in jail for more drug charges

A Kalispell man who received a probationary sentence for growing marijuana with his cousin in Flathead National Forest is back in jail.

Valley players ready for football season

The first Flathead Valley High School football kickoff show was held on Monday.

Football is back, and so are the stories

Football is finally back.

Hundreds turn out to support Flathead's Daniel Long

Daniel Long didn’t know what to expect when he arrived for a fundraiser in his honor at Fatt Boys Sports Bar in Kalispell on Wednesday evening.

Hot temper battles with hot-air balloon

The pilot of a hot-air balloon reportedly received a threatening voicemail from an angry woman. The woman allegedly threatened to shoot the hot-air balloon down if it flew over her house. Flathead County sheriff’s deputies counseled the woman and told her she could not shoot at the balloon because she would be shooting at people.

Judge denies request to intervene in Egan Slough zoning fight

A Flathead District Court Judge has denied a Creston area resident’s request to force the Flathead County commissioners to set a Nov. 7 election for a ballot issue on the proposed Egan Slough Zoning District expansion or show cause why they won’t do so.

Small wildfires prompt big response in dry conditions

A one-acre wildfire south of Bigfork Tuesday morning prompted responses from multiple fire agencies across the Flathead due to increasingly dry conditions creating a heightened threat of small fires spreading.

New fire east of Eureka forces evacuations

At least 30 homes were evacuated Monday night as a result of an 800- to 1,000-acre wildfire along Gibralter Ridge east of Eureka.

Whitefish goes to Stage 2 fire restrictions

The city of Whitefish has imposed Stage 2 fire restrictions within city limits, effective immediately.

Legals August 8, 2017

No. 24754 PUBLIC NOTICE - REQUEST FOR INFORMATION: Flathead Valley Community College (Kalispell, MT) is seeking options available for vending machines to be installed on campus in Founder's Hall. To request an RFI, please contact cahill@fvcc.edu August 8, 2017 MNAXLP

Team creates device to find, fight mussels

The pristine waters of Flathead Lake that have supported local residents’ way of life for centuries are being threatened by invasive species that have devastated lakes and waterways across the country.

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TODay

Heavirland helping Eagles soar

The last time the United States won the Women’s Rugby World Cup was the first time it was ever held.

Donna Svendsen, 83

Donna Svendsen, 83, passed away Friday, Aug. 4, 2017, in Kalispell.

James 'Jim' Michael Redman, 72

James “Jim” Michael Redman, 72, died on Aug. 2, 2017.

Renovations delayed at Legends Stadium

A delay in the renovation of Legends Stadium means the local football season openers will be relocated.

County OKs new regs for vacation rentals

Administrative permit will be required

Vacation rentals in zoned areas of Flathead County now must abide by new regulations approved Monday by the county commissioners.

Glacier visitation tops 1 million in July

For the first time ever in a single month, more than 1 million people visited Glacier National Park during July.

Police on puppy patrol

Kalispell Police Department was on puppy patrol when following up on a report that someone thought animal cruelty was going on at a Kenway Drive residence because he or she could hear puppies howling and barking outside in the heat “all summer long.” Officers met with the puppy owner and located four “loud and excited” puppies in a round pen with shade and water, appearing in good health. The owner and possibly the puppies were cautioned on the noise level.

C. Falls man pleads not guilty to bail jumping

A Columbia Falls man on Thursday pleaded not guilty to felony bail jumping.

Mother and son charged in theft, assault incident

A mother and son are in jail after their alleged involvement in an incident of theft and assault at a grocery store.

Man pleads not guilty in strangulation assault case

David Dautel of Kalispell pleaded not guilty to felony partner or family member assault/strangulation on Aug. 2 in Flathead District Court.

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Here are the results from the 2017 Evergreen Car Show ‘N’ Shine, held Aug. 5 at Conlin’s.

Legals August 7, 2017

No. 24739 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Housing Solutions LLC, PO Box 2099, Missoula, MT, 59806, Tel: (406) 203-1558, hereby notifies all interested persons of Flathead County, Montana, that Housing Solutions LLC is planning to develop Creekside Commons, an affordable multi-family rental housing complex on the site at 110 Financial Dr, Kalispell, MT. The project will consist of 22 one bedroom and 12 two bedroom units for elderly. There will be public hearing on whether the proposed qualifying low-income housing meets a community housing need on August 8th, 2017 at 6:00 P.M. in the City Council Chambers, 201 1st Avenue East, Kalispell. You are encouraged to attend and comment. August 1, 7, 2017 MNAXLP

Animal warden shares her passion for pets

Despite the reputation given to big-screen dogcatchers as the infamous villain, Kalispell’s lone animal warden took on her demanding role out of a lifelong love of animals and a desire to see them thrive.

No headline

TODay

Council to vote on final plat for Kalispell North Town Center

The Kalispell City Council is set to consider the final layout of the first portion of a massive commercial project that’s been a long time coming.

Don't drink and drive-thru

An employee of a coffee kiosk on Baker Avenue called the Whitefish Police Department when a customer allegedly came through the drive-thru intoxicated, still drinking from an open beer can while placing his order from behind the wheel. Officers were unable to locate the vehicle described by the employee.

Man pleads not guilty to felony sexual intercourse without consent

A 20-year-old man pleaded not guilty to felony sexual intercourse without consent in Flathead District Court on Thursday.

Whitefish man charged with DUI after crash

A Whitefish man with a prior history of driving under the influence of alcohol has been arrested following involvement in a two-vehicle crash.

Downtown Whitefish building gets facelift

The downtown Whitefish building that once housed Piney Creek Interiors is in the midst of a $450,000 renovation. The two-story building located at 100 Central Ave. will house an art gallery, interior design company and clothing store, along with two professional offices. Monica Pastor said she purchased the property in the winter of 2015 with partners, Tanya and Judah Gersh, and Alicia and Daniel Hollis.

How the deaths of two park employees changed bear management for good

Bears and humans have crossed paths in Glacier National Park since it first opened in 1910 — and long before that. In the park’s early days, it wasn’t unusual for these behemoth mammals to walk right up to visitor vehicles chugging along Going-to-the-Sun Road. Vintage photos depict bears sometimes half crawling over cars or peeking into windows, while drivers offered up bits of food or stood a few yards off, firing away on their cameras. The visitors got the wildlife encounters they came for and the bears were treated to an easy lunch.

Trump's reversal on transgender troops will hurt the military

In a sudden reversal of policy, President Trump recently announced transgendered people would no longer be eligible to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. Yet, a 2016 RAND study found that the costs of gender-transition-related health care are relatively low, and that allowing them to serve openly has no effect on military readiness. Furthermore, according to estimates, thousands of transgendered people are already serving on active duty.

The March of Time

Senators, members of Congress defy death and the public

Many decades ago when I was a teenager, I could run and jump and do all sorts of things. I even set a record in my division and league for cross-country. Today, I mow my front lawn and the next day the back yard, for it just takes too much out of me to do them both in the same day. Which means, like everyone else, I’m growing old.

'Night of the grizzlies': Then and now

We’ve come a long way since the tragic events of the so-called “night of the grizzlies” shook our community 50 years ago.

Reduce costs, bolster morale and improve combat readiness

I for one strongly applaud President Trump’s decision to ban transgenders from serving in the military. This decision will reduce costs, enhance military readiness and improve force morale and esprit de corps.

Local food blogger teaches cooking workshops

Women from around the Flathead Valley gathered in the Whitefish home of Glenda Smith on July 10 for a unique learning opportunity. Smith has attended a few workshops with Julie Laing, creator of the Twice as Tasty blog, and decided she wanted a personalized one for herself and some of her hiking friends. Their subject matter for the day: Indian spices.

The establishment - on both sides - weaponizes 'fake news'

The epidemic of “fake news” is apparently so contagious it has spread to India. Ravi Prasad, the country’s Electronics and Information Technology Minister, claimed India is “helpless” in combating “objectionable content.” The Indian government has even threatened to jail people responsible for spreading that content.

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In response to Rep. Matt Regier’s letter, “Eye-opening session for new legislator,” I would like to publicly thank Regier for his courageous and “eye-opening” exposing of compromised and corrupt politicians Frank Garner and Rob Cook.

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TODay

Inter Lake's grizzly story 'repurposed' by the Post

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

Weyerhaeuser donates to Senior Mobile Home Repair

A $10,000 donation from Weyerhaeuser was issued recently to the Senior Mobile Home Repair program, whose umbrella organization is Flathead County’s Agency on Aging. The program is designed to help seniors with maintenance and repairs they may not be able to afford otherwise.

Kids not injured in locked-car incident

A woman called Kalispell Police Department to report she had accidentally locked her kids in her car outside of a local hair salon. The vehicle had been locked for five minutes and the kids reportedly seemed fine and were not in distress.

LaVaughn Deloris (Meyer) Bernau, 85

LaVaughn Deloris (Meyer) Bernau passed away Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017, at the Heritage Place in Kalispell, at the age of 85.

Margaret Belle 'Margiebel' Hart, 87

Margaret Belle “Margiebel” Hart passed away peacefully on July 22, 2017, in Whitefish.

Linnea Samuelson, 71

Linnea Samuelson was born July 11, 1945, to Carl and Maxine Samuelson in Vancouver, Washington.

Ted 'Theo' N. Chaffey, 81

Ted Chaffey passed away at the Veterans Home in Columbia Falls on Tuesday, July 25, 2017, surrounded by his family and friends.

Bruce E. Getter, 80

Bruce E. Getter passed away on July 30, 2017, at his home in Whitefish.

Elva Irene 'Todd' Johnston Kinniburgh Miller, 100

Todd was born to George Ralph and Iva May Johnston in Brockway, Montana, on May 25, 1917. She joined her brother Jack and later a sister Annette and brother Merrill. Todd went to a country school with very few kids. She herded sheep for her dad in the summers and for awhile after she finished school.

Marilyn Jean (Hocking) Easton, 86

Marilyn Jean (Hocking) Easton, 86, of Bigfork, and Fountain Hills, Arizona, died July 25, 2017, in Scottsdale, Arizona, with loving family present.

Robert Myers Westberg, 85

Robert Myers Westberg died July 25, 2017, at his home in Kalispell, surrounded by his loving family. He was 85. A retired lawyer, he and his wife Nancy moved to Montana in 2000 from the San Francisco Bay Area.

Legals August 5, 2017

No. 24646 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The Board of Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana, herby gives notice, pursuant to Section 76-2-205(1), M.C.A., that it will hold a public hearing to consider a request from the Flathead County Planning Board to amend the text of the Flathead County Zoning Regulations. The proposed text will create a new overlay use district entitled SWO Highway 93 South Overlay as Section 3.51. The general character of the proposed SWO Highway 93 South Overlay is an overlay district to mitigate development impacts along the Highway 93 South corridor adjacent to the City of Whitefish. The overlay district proposes to add design standards, including landscaping, buffering, signage, architectural design, lighting, and transportation improvements. The Flathead County Zoning Regulations apply in all County zoning districts created under Section 76-2-205, M.C.A., and are on file for public inspection at the Office of the Board of Commissioners, located at 800 South Main, Room 302, Kalispell, Montana, the Flathead County Planning and Zoning Office, 40 11th Street West, and on the Flathead County Planning and Zoning Office's website at: http://flathead.mt.gov/planning_zoning/downloads.php. Documents related to the proposed amendments to the regulations are on file for public inspection at the Office of the Board of Commissioners and at the Flathead County Planning and Zoning Office. The public hearing will be held on the 17th day of August, 2017 at 9:30 o'clock a.m. in the Commissioners' Chambers, Third Floor, Old Courthouse, Kalispell, Montana. At the public hearing, the Board of Commissioners will give the pubic an opportunity to be heard regarding the proposed change to the text of the Flathead County Zoning Regulations. Written comments are encouraged and will be reviewed by the Commissioners prior to the hearing if received by the Flathead County Commissioners' Office at least three business days prior to the hearing. DATED the 27th day of June, 2017. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Flathead County, Montana By: /s/ Gary D. Krueger Gary D. Krueger, Chairman August 5, 12, 2017 MNAXLP

Allana Marie Erekson, 87

Allana Marie Erekson a beloved friend, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 16, 2017, at home surrounded by her loving daughters and granddaughter.

A HELPING HAND

The crowded van he was riding in had just entered the city limits of Spokane, Washington, when Daniel Long’s phone rang.

Graves leads Lions to unforgettable year

In eighth grade, Garrett Graves wrote on his locker three goals for his high school athletic career.

Pack's Krueger overpowers Class AA

In a decade of dominance in north Kalispell, Glacier has seen very few athletes combine the type of multi-sport excellence that Nikki Krueger displayed during her senior season.

Interior watchdog reviewing Zinke's calls to Alaska senators

WASHINGTON — The Interior Department’s internal watchdog is examining phone calls to Alaska’s Republican senators from Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke seeking support for the GOP health care bill.

Legals August 4, 2017

No. 24702 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE To be sold for cash at a Trustee's Sale on September 26, 2017, 11:00 AM at the main entrance of the Flathead County Justice Center located at 920 Main Street, Kalispell, Montana 59901, the following described real property situated in Flathead County, State of Montana: That portion of Government Lot 5 and the Northwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 4, Township 27 North, Range 21 West, P.M.M., Flathead County, Montana, known as: Parcel F of Certificate of Survey No. 6806. More commonly known as 435 White Basin Road, Kalispell, MT 59901. Grant Spoklie, as Grantor, conveyed said real property to First American Title Company, as Trustee, to secure an obligation owed to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for CitiMortgage, Inc., its successors and assigns, by Deed of Trust on June 26, 2008, and filed for record in the records of the County Clerk and Recorder in Flathead County, State of Montana, on July 1, 2008 as Instrument No. 200800018386, of Official Records. The Deed of Trust was assigned for value as follows: Assignee: Green Tree Servicing LLC Assignment Dated: August 19, 2014 Assignment Recorded: August 20, 2014 Assignment Recording Information: as Instrument No. 201400016062 Assignee: CitiMortgage, Inc. Assignment Dated: March 31, 2014 Assignment Recorded: April 11, 2014 Assignment Recording Information: as Instrument No. 201400006127 All in the records of the County Clerk and Recorder for Flathead County, Montana Benjamin J. Mann is the Successor Trustee pursuant to a Substitution of Trustee recorded in the office of the Clerk and Recorder of Flathead County, State of Montana, on May 11, 2017 as Instrument No. 201700009392, of Official Records. The Beneficiary has declared a default in the terms of said Deed of Trust due to Grantor's failure to make monthly payments beginning August 1, 2016, and each month subsequent, which monthly installments would have been applied on the principal and interest due on said obligation and other charges against the property or loan. By reason of said default, the Beneficiary has declared all sums owing on the obligation secured by said Trust Deed immediately due and payable. The total amount due on this obligation is the principal sum of $385,577.10, interest in the sum of $14,120.25, escrow advances of $1,885.31, other amounts due and payable in the amount of $1,289.21 for a total amount owing of $402,871.87, plus accruing interest, late charges, and other fees and costs that may be incurred or advanced. The Beneficiary anticipates and may disburse such amounts as may be required to preserve and protect the property and for real property taxes that may become due or delinquent, unless such amounts of taxes are paid by the Grantor. If such amounts are paid by the Beneficiary, the amounts or taxes will be added to the obligations secured by the Deed of Trust. Other expenses to be charged against the proceeds of this sale include the Trustee's fees and attorney's fees, costs and expenses of the sale, and late charges, if any. Beneficiary has elected, and has directed the Trustee to sell the above described property to satisfy the obligation. The sale is a public sale and any person, including the Beneficiary, excepting only the Trustee, may bid at the sale. The bid price must be paid immediately upon the close of bidding in cash or cash equivalents (valid money orders, certified checks or cashier's checks). The conveyance will be made by Trustee's Deed, without any representation or warranty, including warranty of title, express or implied, as the sale is made strictly on an as-is, where-is basis, without limitation, the sale is being made subject to all existing conditions, if any, of lead paint, mold or other environmental or health hazards. The sale purchaser shall be entitled to possession of the property on the 10th day following the sale. The Grantor, successor in interest to the Grantor, or any other person having an interest in the property, has the right, at any time prior to the Trustee's Sale, to pay to the Beneficiary, or the successor in interest to the Beneficiary, the entire amount then due under the Deed of Trust and the obligation secured thereby (including costs and expenses actually incurred and attorney's fees) other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred and by curing any other default complained of herein that is capable of being cured by tendering the performance required under the obligation or to cure the default, by paying all costs and expenses actually incurred in enforcing the obligation and Deed of Trust with Successor Trustee's and attorney's fees. In the event that all defaults are cured the foreclosure will be dismissed and the foreclosure sale will be canceled. The scheduled Trustee's Sale may be postponed by public proclamation up to 15 days for any reason. In the event of a bankruptcy filing, the sale may be postponed by the Trustee for up to 120 days by public proclamation at least every 30 days. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder's sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Successor Trustee and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. This is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Dated this 19th day of May, 2017. Benjamin J. Mann Substitute Trustee 376 East 400 South, Suite 300 Salt Lake City, UT 84111 Telephone: 801-355-2886 Office Hours: Mon.-Fri., 8AM-5PM (MST) File No. 48814 July 21, 28, August 4, 2017 MNAXLP

No headline

As residents of the beautiful Swan Valley, we are deeply disturbed by the Lake County Conservation District’s proposal to transfer the management of 60,000 acres of the Flathead National Forest. The proposal calls for the establishment of a “Conservation Forest” to produce timber revenue for the conservation district. This proposal is a direct attack on our public lands, and we cannot stand for it in our own backyard.

Do your part to protect Flathead Lake

It’s no surprise the top concern in the latest State of the Lake report for Flathead Lake is the threat of aquatic invasive species. Boat inspections have now become a way of life here in Northwest Montana, and we can’t imagine anyone would purposely bypass an inspection station and put an uninspected boat into our pristine waters.

Reilly, Esks escape with another win

The Daily Inter Lake

Drought spreads and intensifies across Northern Plains

HELENA — The drought plaguing eastern Montana and much of North and South Dakota came on quickly and is intensifying, leading ranchers to sell their cattle and farmers to harvest early whatever crops that have grown so far this summer.

Ronald William Wachsmuth, 80

Ronald William Wachsmuth, 80, passed away July 19, 2017, at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula with his family by his side.

Dorothy Jean Hanson, 75

Dorothy Jean Hanson of Mesquite, Nevada, formerly Kalispell, passed away Sunday, July 30, 2017 in Missoula.

Eek! Caller reports mouse in the house

Someone reportedly called the Kalispell Police Department requested to speak to an officer about a mouse he found in his house.

James Richard 'Pete' Peterson, 71

James Richard “Pete” Peterson passed away July 2, 2017, at 71 years old, at Genesis Healthcare in Whitefish.

Laura Grace Barrett, 87

Born in Froid, Montana, in 1930, Laura was raised on a wheat farm, which she left at the age of 16 to attend the University of Montana. She worked as schoolteacher in San Francisco. The bright and beautiful Laura became a stewardess for Pan American Airways. There she met Jim Barrett, who was love-struck by the bold blonde bombshell. Laura was captivated by the handsome young attorney. They married and moved to Los Angeles. They had five children, Stephanie Jo, James Patrick, Michael Sean, Kevin Vincent and Gabriela Goodwin.

Drive-thru crash results in felony charge

A Kalispell man has been charged with felony criminal child endangerment after allegedly rear-ending a vehicle in a drive-thru, having reportedly taken sleeping medication and morphine earlier in the day.

$6 million in state grants helps boost local preschool programs

Preschools across the state are experiencing new opportunities for growth and improvement with the implementation of a state-funded grant meant to specifically benefit early childhood programs.

Businesses ask county for tax break

Two local manufacturing companies have asked Flathead County for tax incentives offered through a county resolution for new or expanding industries.

Water-ski community taking shape

Greg Alsbury pops up out of the water as if he were weightless, gliding across the surface on a single ski at 34 mph. He whips in and out of the slalom course, marked by colored buoys, down one of two half-mile long lakes at Rosewater water-ski community in North Kalispell off Rose Crossing.

California firefighter dies in Montana

MISSOULA (AP) — A California firefighter died in western Montana when a tree that was being cut down fell and hit him.

Best of the Flathead 2017 results

'Always ... Patsy Cline'

It is closing weekend for the Whitefish Theatre Co.’s production of “Always…Patsy Cline.” In intimate, cabaret style, final performances for this nearly sold-out show are Aug. 3-6 at 8 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Bigfork Festival of the Arts this weekend

The 39th annual Bigfork Festival of the Arts will take place in downtown Bigfork from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Aug. 5 and 6. The event is free, open to the public and appropriate for all ages.

'Folk Rewind' with Steve Eckels

“Folk Rewind” is an evening of group singing led by guitar instructor Steve Eckels, to be held at the Montana House on Friday, Aug. 11, from 7 to 9 p.m. The event will be in the new Kintla Camp event room at the Montana House, located in Apgar Village in Glacier National Park.

'Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr.'

A five-time Broadway veteran. A former Radio City Rockette. One of the nation’s most in-demand tap dancers. These have been just a few of the professionals working with local students in Alpine Theatre Project’s Broadway Summer Training Camp. The camp culminates in a performance of the classic musical comedy, “Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr.” on Aug. 4 and 5 at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Great Bear Festival comes to Kalispell's Depot Park

Celebrate local and regional beers, wines and hard ciders at the first Great Bear Festival on Saturday, Aug. 5, from 3 to 10 p.m. at Depot Park in Kalispell.

No headline

THURSDAY, AUG. 3

Legals August 3, 2017

No. 24737 NOTICE OF SALE FOR STATE SCHOOL TRUST LAND The Dept. of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) will offer the following parcels of state land located in Flathead County, for sale at public auction on September 21, 2017 at 9:00 a.m., at the DNRC Northwest Land Office, 655 Timberwolf Parkway, Suite 1, Kalispell, MT under terms and conditions provided herein. Sale No. 848 Acres: 2.111 Legal Description: Lot 1 & 2, Echo Lake, Sec. 5, T27N-R19W Minimum Bid for Land: $520,000 Value of Improvements on Property: $155,000 Location: 1882 Echo Cabin Loop, Bigfork, MT 59911 BID PARTICIPATION A bid packet containing an Offer to Purchase and Bid Deposit Receipt Form and Invitation to Purchase State Land at Public Oral Auction and General Terms & Conditions for Sale is available on the website: http://dnrc.mt.gov/cabinsitesales or from DNRC upon request. For Open House dates go to http://dnrc.mt.gov/cabinsitesales. All persons wishing to participate in the auction, on or before September 1, 2017, must submit a bid deposit in the form of a certified check made payable to DNRC equal to five percent (5%) of the minimum bid indicated for that parcel. In addition, an Offer to Purchase and Bid Deposit Receipt Form must be completed and submitted with each bid deposit. Failure to submit the Offer to Purchase and Bid Deposit Receipt Form as provided herein will prohibit participation in the auction. All Offer to Purchase and Bid Deposit Receipt Forms and payments must be sent to the address shown below. DNRC, Attn: Emily Cooper, PO Box 201601, 1539 11th Ave., Helena, MT 59620-1601, (406) 444-4165 or ecooper@mt.gov. TERMS OF SALE: 1. The improvements and any other personal property on the cabin/home sites are owned by the lessee or other 3rd party. The successful bidder shall be required to pay the appraised value of the improvements in addition to the purchase price of the cabin/home site determined by the highest bid at the auction in accordance with M.C.A. §77-2-318. 2. The minimum acceptable bids for the land are the values indicated above. 3. The parcel will be sold to the high bidder of that parcel. However, the current lessee of the parcel shall retain the option to exercise their preference right for purchase by matching the high bid for that parcel. If that right is exercised, the lessee will be deemed the purchaser of the parcel. If the preference right is not exercised, the high bidder shall be deemed to be the purchaser. The high bidder will be responsible to pay the lessee for the value of improvements located on the property. 4. In addition to the purchase price for each parcel and the purchase of the improvement, the purchaser shall also be responsible for the following costs (if applicable to that particular sale) including, but not limited to: Advertising, Appraisal, Filing fees, Water Right Transfers, Cost of Closing. All inquiries, bid deposits, or requests for forms are to be sent to: DNRC, Attn: Emily Cooper, PO Box 201601, 1539 11th Ave., Helena, MT 59620-1601, (406) 444-4165 or ecooper@mt.gov . August 3, 10, 17, 24, 2017 MNAXLP

Whitefish Gallery Nights downtown tonight

Whitefish Gallery Nights continues Thursday, Aug. 3, from 6 to 9 p.m. in downtown Whitefish. This year’s event features 11 galleries and dozens of local artists.

Agile Rascal Bicycle Touring Theatre hits Whitefish

A group of eight actors are pedaling their way across Montana this summer, making stops in towns to perform their original play before packing up their bikes to cycle on to the next show.

'Homegrown' Comedian Matt Evans returns to Kalispell with new jokes, new outlook on life

Comedian Matt Evans isn’t afraid to get real.

Man with spam tries unplugging computer

Flathead County Sheriff’s officers advised a man to unplug his computer until he got a “real computer expert” to clear up issues caused by an alleged scam. The caller said someone had somehow accessed his computer, resulting in the device showing him web pages he didn’t want to see.

Herbert Osorio, 93

Herbert Osorio, 93, of Missoula, and a longtime resident of Kalispell, passed away at his home in Missoula on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2017.

Deidra 'Dee' Bryant Faessler, 70

Deidra “Dee” Bryant Faessler passed away in Kona Community Hospital from extended complications of acute pneumonia on July 29, 2017.

Herbert Joseph Osorio, 93

Longtime Kalispell resident, Command Sgt. Maj. (Ret.) Herbert Joseph Osorio died Aug. 1, 2017, in Missoula.

Glacier reveals plan for motor boats on Lake McDonald

Glacier National Park today will begin scheduling motorized watercraft inspections and sealing for boaters to launch on Lake McDonald after a 30-day quarantine period.

Viewing area for fair parade expanded

Due to growing crowds at parades in Kalispell over the last 18 months, the parade route and viewing area for the upcoming Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo Parade will extend by two blocks to the south on the east side of Main Street.

Boy Scouts paddle marine trail from Lakeside to Polson

A group of Kalispell Boy Scouts didn’t anticipate having to battle 2-foot waves, 30 mph winds and gusts up to 50 mph on their paddling excursion from Lakeside to Polson in mid-July, but they’re scouts so they persevered.

Helicopters douse quick-moving fire

A quick-moving grass fire west of Kalispell burned 4 acres on Wednesday afternoon before crews contained the blaze that threatened a couple nearby homes.

Zinke recommends no changes to Montana monument

WASHINGTON (AP) — Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said Wednesday he will not recommend changes to Montana’s Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument as he continues to review national monuments for possible elimination or reduction.

Bear attacks jogger in Idaho, jogger kicks it and it flees

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A black bear attacked a man jogging in the Panhandle National Forests in northern Idaho in the second bear attack at the popular recreation area in a month but the bear ran away after the jogger kicked at it, officials said Wednesday.

Kalispell Regional names new CEO

Roughly six months after Northwest Montana’s largest medical system lost its chief executive officer, Kalispell Regional Healthcare has named its newest leader.

Legals August 2, 2017

No. 24733 Peg L. Allison Clerk of District Court Flathead County Justice Center 920 South Main Street Kalispell, MT 59901 (406) 758-5906 IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF THE ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF THE STATE OF MONTANA, IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF FLATHEAD IN THE MATTER OF: X.S.F., YOUTH IN NEED OF CARE. Cause No. DN-17-006(D) SUMMONS FOR PUBLICATION To: Daniel Scott Ford YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that a Petition has been filed in the above-entitled Court by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, Child and Family Services Division, 121 Financial Drive, Suite C, Kalispell, MT 59901, requesting termination of parental rights with permanent legal custody and right to consent to adoption of the above-named child. NOW, THEREFORE, YOU ARE HEREBY DIRECTED to appear on Friday, October 6, 2017, at 1:30 p.m. before the Honorable Dan Wilson, District Judge, Department 4, Flathead County Justice Center, 920 South Main Street, Third Floor, Kalispell, Flathead County, Montana, then and there to show cause, if any you may have, why the Petition should not be granted. X.S.F. was born on May 8, 2015 in Whitefish, Flathead County, Montana. The birth mother is Erika Michelle Stratton. You have the right to representation by an attorney in these proceedings. If you are unable to afford an attorney, the Court will appoint an attorney to represent you. Your failure to appear at the hearing constitutes a denial of your interest in the above-named child, which denial may result, without further notice of this proceeding or any subsequent proceedings, in the Court entering judgment by default against you for all relief requested in the Petition. A copy of the Petition is filed with the Clerk of District Court for the Eleventh Judicial District Court in and for Flathead County, 920 South Main, Third Floor, Kalispell, Montana, 59901, telephone (406) 758-5870. WITNESS my hand and Seal of this Court this 27th day of July, 2017. PEG L. ALLISON Clerk of District Court By: CASSANDRA M. LOVELESS Deputy Clerk August 2, 9, 16, 2017 MNAXLP

Where's the leadership?

When was the last time an NFL owner asked your opinion on building your favorite team’s roster?

Great Lakes wolves to stay on endangered list

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — A federal appeals court Tuesday retained federal protection for gray wolves in the western Great Lakes region, ruling that the government acted prematurely when it dropped them from the endangered species list.

Shelly Ruth Walter Moen, 54

On July 26, 2017, “heaven became a more fun place with the arrival of” Shelly Ruth Walter Moen. Shelly died unexpectedly of natural causes at her home in Eureka, with her beloved dogs by her side. Shelly, who was funny, smart and loved life will be missed by so many.

Jan Marie Taylor, 65

Jan Marie Taylor passed away on Saturday, July 22, 2017, at her home on Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho.

Little piggies cry all the way home

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report of dozen domestic pigs allegedly seen squealing down Montana 35. The bovine buds reportedly escaped from a farm off the highway. The owners of the pigs were found to be out of town, and a man who was allegedly watching the property was called to use a bucket of grain to lead the pigs home.

Library kiosks set up in rural communities

The rural communities of Stryker, Fortine and Trego — all located northwest of Whitefish — have joined the ranks of cities around the world that have tapped into the Free Little Library movement to provide book exchanges for readers of all ages.

Artist working on mural for C-Falls bank

Hungry Horse artist Nick Oberling can only work on his latest painting from 7 to about 9 every morning. After that, it just gets too hot — literally.

Wildfires cost state $21 million to date

HELENA — Montana has nearly depleted its $63 million firefighting reserve fund after budget cuts swept away nearly half the money and the state spending as much on wildfire suppression efforts last month as it did in the 12 months before that, state officials said Tuesday

Parched July fifth hottest ever

July 2017 in the Flathead Valley will go into the record book as the fifth-hottest and fifth-driest July since record-keeping began, the National Weather Service said.

Red flag warning in Glacier, Flathead

Numerous wildfires continued to burn across Western Montana on Tuesday as a relentless hot and dry weather pattern kept the fire danger at extreme.

Legals August 1, 2017

No. 24739 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Housing Solutions LLC, PO Box 2099, Missoula, MT, 59806, Tel: (406) 203-1558, hereby notifies all interested persons of Flathead County, Montana, that Housing Solutions LLC is planning to develop Creekside Commons, an affordable multi-family rental housing complex on the site at 110 Financial Dr, Kalispell, MT. The project will consist of 22 one bedroom and 12 two bedroom units for elderly. There will be public hearing on whether the proposed qualifying low-income housing meets a community housing need on August 8th, 2017 at 6:00 P.M. in the City Council Chambers, 201 1st Avenue East, Kalispell. You are encouraged to attend and comment. August 1, 7, 2017 MNAXLP

Swimmer makes history crossing Flathead Lake

As the sun rose over Flathead Lake Saturday morning, a Kalispell woman dove into the chilly water with a goal to do what no one ever had.

No headline

TODay

Final decision pending on short-term rentals

The Flathead County commissioners are poised to make a final decision Aug. 7 on imposing regulations for short-term rental housing in zoned areas of the county.