Tuesday, January 31
Army Corp told to approve Dakota pipeline easement
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The Acting Secretary of the Army has directed the Army Corps of Engineers to proceed with an easement necessary to complete the Dakota Access pipeline, North Dakota Sen. John Hoeven said on Tuesday.
Medical marijuana patient seeks ruling on 'usable' marijuana
BILLINGS (AP) — A medical marijuana patient is asking the Montana Supreme Court to rule whether the state can prosecute him and other patients for possessing more than one ounce of marijuana, even if the plant is not yet dry.
Sailor says goodbye to USS Enterprise
Ray Godfrey could feel the USS Enterprise slow from his station below the steel flight deck. It was 1964, and the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier was meeting two other nuclear-powered carriers in the Mediterranean Sea.
Fees on electric vehicles proposed
The Montana House of Representatives on Tuesday endorsed a bill creating an additional $90 fee to register a hybrid vehicle in the state. Electric vehicles would be subject to a $180 fee.
Trump nominates Neil Gorsuch for Supreme Court
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump nominated Neil Gorsuch, a fast-rising conservative judge with a writer's flair, to the Supreme Court on Tuesday, a selection expected to spark a fierce fight with Democrats over a jurist who could shape America's legal landscape for decades to come.
Officers respond to blown transformer
The Kalispell Police Department responded to a blown transformer above a building complex on East Washington and North Main streets after someone reported hearing a loud explosion and seeing a flash of light.
Roger Wayne Stevens, 80
Roger Wayne Stevens of Kalispell passed away peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in the comfort of his home, at the age of 80.
Laura Lea (Green) Djonne, 71
Laura Lea (Green) Djonne, 71, passed away Jan. 27, 2017, after a brief illness surrounded by her family.
Genevabell E. Matthews, 96
Genevabell E. Matthews, 96, passed away on Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, at Lake Shore Manor, an adult care home in Lake Stevens, Washington.
Patricia Mae Managhan, 95
Patricia Mae Managhan passed away peacefully on Jan. 26, 2017, with family at her side. She was a resident of Hot Springs but had been at the Edgewood Vista Memory Care Center in Kalispell since December of 2014.
Joy Ellen Elgin, 77
Joy Ellen Elgin, 77, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2017, from ovarian cancer, at her home in Kalispell.
No headline
TODay
Officials investigating Libby woman's death as homicide
A suspicious death in Libby last fall is officially being investigated as a homicide.
Daines to lead national parks subcommittee
Montana Sen. Steve Daines will head up the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on National Parks, the Republican’s congressional office announced Tuesday.
Former SEAL who says he killed bin Laden has book deal
NEW YORK (AP) — The Navy SEAL who has said he fired the shots that killed Osama bin Laden has a memoir coming out this spring.
Bill to ban foreign law in Montana moves forward
State legislation to ban foreign laws from being implemented in Montana courts was passed by the Senate Judiciary Committee on a party-line vote of 7-3 Tuesday.
Ryan Zinke OK'd by Senate committee for Interior job
WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans pushed President Donald Trump’s nominees to head the Energy and Interior Departments through a Senate panel on Tuesday while other committees moved toward votes on his picks to head agencies in the thick of partisan battles over health care, legal protections, education and the economy.
'Solar Guy' in Kalispell for presentation
Brad Van Wert, a solar installer known as “Solar Guy,” will be making a presentation at 4 p.m. today at Kalispell Brewing Co., 412 Main St. in Kalispell.
Polson, Browning housing projects get federal funding
Housing projects in Polson and Browning are among the developments statewide that will receive $27.1 million in federal housing tax credits through the Montana Board of Housing to help with the construction and rehabilitation of rental housing for low income families.
Legals January 31, 2017
No. 24232 Montana 11th Judicial District Court Flathead County In the Matter of the Name Change of: Alfred Rudolph Gaytan Jr. Alfred Rudolph Gaytan Jr. Petitioner Cause No: DV-17-021C HEIDI J ULBRICHT Notice of Hearing On Name Change This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Alfred Rudolph Gaytan Jr. To Alfred Rudolph Gaitan Jr. The hearing will be on 2/22/2017 at 8:30 a.m. The Hearing will be held at the Courthouse in Flathead County located at 920 South Main Street, Kalispell, Montana. Dated: January 9, 2017 /s/ Susanne Vining Judicial Assistant January 31, 2017 and February 7, 14, 21, 2017 MNAXLP
The puzzle of the Montana economy
You wouldn’t think that the economy we all live and work in would be such a mystery. Especially in this information age. Yet the state of the state economy — and especially for Montana’s cities and communities — can be frustratingly hard to assess sometimes. And this may be one such time.
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Montana, we had an opportunity to elect a governor who is not a career politician, has proven himself at good job creation and has strong conservative values. We need that. Instead, we chose four more years of Steve Bullock and Obama’s failed policies.
Sentinel slips past Bravettes
The Flathead girls didn’t back down from the toughest team in the state, leading Missoula Sentinel for three quarters before falling late 46-43 in a home Western AA conference basketball game on Tuesday night.
Monday, January 30
Lawmaker proposes bill shifting state parks authority
In the wake of former Montana State Parks Administrator Chas Van Genderen’s abrupt dismissal in December, a state lawmaker is proposing legislation that would remove the position from the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, along with most its authority over the state parks agency.
Glacier and Flathead finish second, third at state
Bozeman edged out Glacier High School by eight points to capture its second consecutive Class AA state title this weekend.
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Bigfork takes second in Class B-C Speech and Debate state tournament
Bigfork High School Speech and Debate wrapped up the season placing second at state.
Proposed bottling plant focus of water-group meeting
Water for Flathead’s Future will hold an educational meeting on Wednesday to discuss a proposed water bottling facility near Creston.
Columbia Falls Speech and Debate team takes first
Columbia Falls High School Speech and Debate brought home the hardware from state for the 12th consecutive time, capping an undefeated season.
Alleged attack involved bear spray
Up to three people were reportedly assaulted with bear spray. A bearded man with long hair and a woman with dark hair in a bun, both described as being in their 40s, allegedly showed up at a Pleasant Lane residence claiming they had car trouble Sunday afternoon, according to Kalispell Police Department. The pair then allegedly sprayed the individuals at the residence with bear spray in an attempt to rob them before leaving in a white minivan-type vehicle that possibly had a rack on top.
No headline
TODay
Trade center proposal tabled by committee
A Hungry Horse legislator’s proposal to establish a Montana trade center in Calgary was likely sunk for a second straight legislative session after a Senate committee tabled the bill on Tuesday.
Long-lost dog tag returned to local family
A World War II dog tag that belonged to a Flathead Valley soldier has found its way back to the man’s family, thanks to Facebook.
New health care leader talks about the future
The temporary leader at Kalispell Regional Healthcare is using his background as a businessman to help steer the valley’s largest employer.
Legals January 30, 2017
No. 24151 AUDIT PUBLICATION INTRODUCTION An audit of the affairs of Flathead County has been conducted by Anderson ZurMuehlen & Co., P.C. The audit covered the fiscal year ended 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 Flathead County for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016, contained an Independent Auditor's Report on the County's financial statements. The report issued for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2016 was an unqualified report. The audit report also contained several other auditor's reports. Following is a listing 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 Internal Control over Financial Reporting and on Compliance and Other Matters Based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed in Accordance With Government Auditing Standards-This report included finding 2016-01- Preparation of Financial Statements and Schedule of Expenditures of Federal Awards 2. Independent Auditor's Report on Compliance for Each Major Program and on Internal Control over Compliance Required by the Uniform Guidance-This report contained no findings. 3. Schedule of Findings and Questioned Costs-This report contained no findings. Public Inspection of Audit Report The complete audit report is on file, in its entirety, and open to public inspection at the County Court House. January 30, 2016 MNAXLP
Sunday, January 29
FVCC kicks off 50th anniversary
Flathead Valley Community College is kicking off its 50th anniversary this week with the first in a series of commemorative events, publications and exhibits honoring the college’s early advocates.
Whitefish woman sentenced for Glacier park thefts
A Whitefish woman was sentenced in Flathead County District Court Thursday for stealing wallets and credit cards at area bars and in Glacier National Park in 2015.
Police respond to parking problems
A Central Avenue business employee called the Whitefish Police Department to complain about a truck parked in the alley that was allegedly blocking traffic. Officers made contact with the truck’s owner, who said they hadn’t been there long, and were dropping off supplies at another business.
No headline
TODay
New Kalispell bar showcases craft beer
“Beer, if drank in moderation, softens the temper, cheers the spirit and promotes good health.”
Illi's op-ed on Trump didn't hit the mark
As a fellow sportsman, I look forward to Warren Illi’s outdoors column, usually in Thursday’s Inter Lake. After reading his ringing endorsement that Donald Trump’s election victory “should bode well for federal involvement in the tradition of hunting and fishing” on the editorial page in December, it made me think he should stick to Thursday’s stories and leave the Op-Ed page alone.
Whose land is it? A look at native claims
During the Vietnam War years I owned a lovely home on Stonybrook Drive in Anaheim, California. My children’s learning, memories, family traditions and life-experiences were forged in that home. My children were native to that soil. Although we had to move away and have been gone for many years, it was the homeland of our family origins.
Discussion points on future of the Affordable Care Act
When the Affordable Care Act was passed in 2010, its goal was to improve access to quality health care for all Americans. However, the law has provided the greatest benefit to states with large rural populations like Montana. The reason is that the Affordable Care Act targets the exact factors that lead to poor health outcomes in rural communities: lack of insurance coverage, lack of physicians, lack of access to care, quality of care and geographic barriers.
'Million-woman mob scene' is symptom of deeper woes
A lot was going on behind the elaborate presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C. Meanwhile an undercurrent and display of public reaction was churning. We are now witnessing the preliminary scenario of the upcoming Trump administration. Unfortunately strength draws arrows and stimulates animosity. Increasing divisiveness is fomenting under a pervasive wave of persecution complex. The follow-up million-woman march was an outgrowth of women’s causes and emotions. But also on display were “poverty” concerns and “racial” sensitivity shared by slave and Indian descendants, as well as current immigrants.
RSVP will be sorely missed service
We were disappointed to learn that the longstanding and valuable Retired and Senior Volunteer Program will cease operations this spring, apparently under the weight of shrinking funding and expanding administrative requirements.
Fred Whiteside's contribution to the U.S. Constitution
“Fred Whiteside is one of Montana’s authentic unsung heroes.”
Reflections on the Women's March in D.C.
Having just returned from the Women’s March on Washington, D.C., I felt it fair to attempt a representation of what I experienced. In the new reality of false news, real or imagined, I would like to provide a relatively pure interpretation from a man who was on the street. It is however my interpretation and my short story about the power of the people.
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Economic outlook seminar Feb. 7
The women's march in Helena
When I heard there was a Women’s March at our state Capitol, I knew I was in. As a young girl I learned how standing up for what you believe in can only happen through action.
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This is for the women in Lakeside (and others that complained) who said their children’s lives were being ruined by the “Trump that B*tch” sign on the side of the road before the election.
Saturday, January 28
Voisin finishes 7th in X Games big air
ASPEN, Colo. — Whitefish skier Maggie Voisin finished seventh in the inaugural X Games women’s ski big air competition, landing one big jump while having trouble mid-air during the event.
Dye, Babcock lead Whitefish, C-Falls swimmers
HAVRE — Caroline Dye of Whitefish and Colton Babcock of Columbia Falls were double winners on Saturday at the Havre Invitational swim meet,
Man shares his tale of surviving grizzly attacks
BOZEMAN (AP) — When the world last saw Todd Orr, his arms were bloodied, his back was scratched up, and there was a gash on the side of his head. He’s recovered pretty well, and his voice box works just fine, so on Jan. 23, Todd Orr told the story millions already know with an epilogue — hours of surgery, stitches and months of physical therapy.
PHOTO GALLERY: Whitefish skijoring races
Local man rises to occasion when he's accosted on plane for supporting Trump
Millions of people saw the video last week of an airplane passenger being accosted by a woman who was angry at him for saying that he was in Washington, D.C., to “celebrate democracy” rather than to protest Donald Trump.
Judge follows plea deal in sex assault case
A Marion man received an unusual sentence in Flathead County District Court Thursday for sexually assaulting a young girl.
Education panel votes to keep dropout age at 16
Montana’s minimum drop-out age for public-school students will likely remain at 16 for the time being, after a state education panel tabled a bill seeking to raise the age to 18.
GOOD NEWS: Five-star customer service
From the reviews, Vinny’s Grill & Sushi Restaurant in downtown Polson is a busy, people-pleasing kind of place.
Special Olympic skier heads to World Winter Games
On a recent afternoon at Whitefish Mountain Resort, Cedar Vance was still full of energy after a grueling practice session on the slopes.
SUV nearly hits car and guardrail
Kalispell Police Department responded to an SUV that was reportedly seen swerving all over the road, was slowing down and speeding up, nearly hit a vehicle head-on and almost hit a guardrail near Lakeside. The driver was believed to be driving under the influence.
Nancy I. Ostheller, 76
Nancy I. Ostheller “went home to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” on Friday, Jan. 20, 2017, with family by her side.
Randi Lynn (Heinrichson) Elliot, 67
Randi “went to be with her Lord and Savior” on Jan. 20, 2017.
Agnes Melasina (Patterson) Gustafson, 91
Agnes Melasina (Patterson) Gustafson, at the age of 91 1/2, passed away at the Buffalo Hill Terrace the evening of Jan. 23, 2017, with her beloved niece, Nancy, by her side.
Neal Wallace Baker, 87
Neal Wallace Baker, 87, passed away Jan. 24, 2017, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Dorothy M. Schwartz, 90
Dorothy passed away peacefully on Jan. 23, 2017, after a short stay at Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.
LaDona (Greer) Monk, 93
LaDona (Greer) Monk, 93, died Sunday, Jan. 22, 2017.
Doris Rose West, 90
Doris Rose West, 90, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017, at Brendan House in Kalispell,
Legals January 28, 2017
No. 24206 MONTANA ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, FLATHEAD COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ERIC DAVID WENDSCHLAG, Deceased. Dept. No. Dan Wilson Probate No. DP-17-003D 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 Dawn Michele Wendschlag, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, c/o Boone Karlberg P.C., P. O. Box 9199, Missoula, Montana 59807-9199, 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 11th day of January, 2017, at Menifee, California. /s/ Dawn Michele Wendschlag Dawn Michele Wendschlag, Personal Representative BOONE KARLBERG P.C. By:Julie R. Sirrs Julie R. Sirrs, Esq. P. O. Box 9199 Missoula, Montana 59807-9199 January 14, 21, 28, 2017 MNAXLP
New Bigfork project assists students in need
A new resource for Bigfork middle- and high-school students who are in need of clothing and hygiene products launched this month at the Bigfork Community Center.
Braves falter late in Hellgate loss
The Daily Inter Lake
Flathead pins Bruins, Bengals
HELENA — Top-ranked Flathead wrapped up regular-seaon action Saturday evening by downing fourth-ranked Helena High 36-23 and fifth-ranked Helena Capital 35-28 in Western AA dual wrestling.
Friday, January 27
OPI hires investigator to look into test score reporting
GREAT FALLS, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Office of Public Instruction is hiring an outside investigator to review policies related to reporting student proficiency data to the federal government a week after Superintendent Elsie Arntzen announced that some test data submitted last year was "falsified."
Panel hears pleas to approve long-delayed building projects
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Military veterans, college students and history supporters made passionate pleas Friday to Montana lawmakers to finally approve the building projects they've been requesting for years.
Montana House endorses whistleblower measures
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana House gave initial approval Friday to bills that would add protections for public workers who allege government waste, fraud or abuse within their agencies.
Montana senators seek waiver from enhanced driver's licenses
MISSOULA (AP) — Montana’s U.S. senators have asked the government for an emergency waiver from the REAL ID Act that requires driver’s licenses to have security enhancements and be issued to those who can prove they are in the country legally.
Construction debris drives landfill revenue
Almost a third of the waste brought to the Flathead County Landfill last year was construction debris fueled by large projects such as the demolition of Columbia Falls Aluminum Co.
Therapist focuses on childhood trauma
Trauma is something everyone has experienced.
Woman threatened with fork over Legos
A woman called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report that her teenage son was running around the house threatening her with a fork. The argument started over Legos. The son allegedly grabbed his mother around the neck and threw her down. He also reportedly threw a boot at his sister before calming down and returning to his room.
Donations for learning center top $2.1M
What began as a modest, student-led initiative to raise money to construct a greenhouse near Whitefish High School has snowballed into private donations totaling $2.1 million to construct, staff and start up the Center for Sustainability and Entrepreneurship.
Plea deal accepted in Ponzi-scheme case
Flathead County District Court Judge Amy Eddy on Wednesday accepted a plea deal in the Ponzi case of Catherine Ann Finberg.
Legals January 27, 2017
No. 24222 PUBLIC NOTICE DISPOSITION OF ABANDONED, OBSOLETE AND UNDESIREABLE PROPERTY Notice is hereby given as required by Section 20-6-604, MCA, the Board of Trustees of School District No. 3 (Fair-Mont-Egan School) adopted a resolution to sell or otherwise dispose of abandoned, obsolete and undesirable property at the regular meeting on January 16th, 2017. A list of this property can be found at any school building office between the hours of 8:30 am and 3:30 pm. Any taxpayer of the district may appeal this resolution to district court any time prior to the effective date of the resolution. The effective date of the resolution will be February 10th, 2017. January 27, 2017 MNAXLP
Another delayed win for asbestos victims
It’s been a long time coming, but Libby asbestos victims finally are getting a measure of financial compensation for their various diseases caused by asbestos exposure from the W.R. Grace & Co. vermiculite mine that has sickened thousands and killed hundreds of people.
Delivery driver had a 'ruff' night
A pizza delivery driver called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office after getting his car stuck in some snow after a delivery on South Cedar Drive. The driver said he went to one of the nearby residences for assistance, and was allegedly attacked and bitten by three dogs at the residence. Deputies and animal control followed up on the incident.
Sites may close on more holidays
A plan to close Flathead County’s green-box garbage container sites on more holidays throughout the year is in the works.
Bickering at Times let Trump off hook
Now that the horses have left the barn, trotted out the front gate and are galloping headlong down the county road, editors at The New York Times have taken to public bickering about who left the stalls unlatched.
Polson boys pile on Frenchtown
The Daily Inter Lake
Eureka wins Whitefish Duals
Eureka captured the Whitefish Duals title on Friday at Whitefish High School.
Thursday, January 26
Stevens leaves lasting health legacy
The Flathead Valley lost a dynamic advocate for quality health care with the recent death of Kalispell Regional Healthcare President Velinda Stevens. Her legacy to this community, though, will live on for generations to come.
Delores 'Dee' Ann Cartwright, 66
Delores “Dee” Ann Cartwright of Kalispell “was welcomed home by her heavenly father” Jan. 22, 2017.
Kenneth Lavern Frost, 77
On Thursday, Dec. 22, 2016, at the age of 77, Kenneth Lavern Frost, our beloved husband, father and grandfather, passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Whitefish forest project OK'd to begin this summer
Widespread prescribed burns and some timber harvesting has been OK’d for the mountains above Whitefish.
Bigfork optimistic about state tourney
Bigfork High School Speech and Debate team is going into state with confidence.
Renovations bringing Hockaday into 'digital age'
The first sign that the Hockaday Museum of Art was ready for a technological upgrade came from the children.
Arrests made in casino robbery case
Kalispell police have arrested two suspects in the armed robbery of a casino on West Idaho Street.
Proposals reconsider loosening gun laws
HELENA — Proposals to loosen gun restrictions in Montana are being revived by Republican lawmakers who are undeterred by their rejection in the past and with no assurance they stand a better chance of passing during the current state legislative session.
Legals January 26, 2017
No. 24192 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE TO BE SOLD FOR CASH AT TRUSTEE'S SALE on May 5, 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: A TRACT OF LAND SITUATED, LYING AND BEING IN THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 28 NORTH, RANGE 22 WEST, P.M.M., FLATHEAD COUNTY, MONTANA, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHEAST SECTION CORNER OF SECTION 13; THENCE WEST, A DISTANCE OF 491.10 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 20°01`00" WEST, A DISTANCE OF 505.10 FEET TO THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING OF THE TRACT OF LAND BEING DESCRIBED; THENCE NORTH 20°14`51" WEST, A DISTANCE OF 137.87 FEET TO A 1 1/2" PIPE; THENCE SOUTH 89°52`38" WEST, A DISTANCE OF 313.10 FEET TO A 1" PIPE; THENCE SOUTH 00°02`33" EAST, A DISTANCE OF 129.10 FEET TO A 5/8" REBAR; THENCE NORTH 89°56`00" EAST, A DISTANCE OF 360.91 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. SHOWN AS TRACT 4 OF CERTIFICATE OF SURVEY NO. 16326 DEBBIE A OFTEDAHL, as Grantor, conveyed said real property to Alliance Title and Escrow Corp., as Trustee, to secure an obligation owed to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Greenpoint Mortgage Funding, Inc., as Beneficiary, by Deed of Trust on August 18, 2006, and recorded on August 21, 2006 as Document No. 200623316200. The beneficial interest is currently held by HSBC Bank USA, National Association, as Trustee of J.P. Morgan Alternative Loan Trust 2007-A1, Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates. 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 May 1, 2009, 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 November 17, 2016 is $240,858.60 principal, interest totaling $70,828.75, escrow advances of $30,476.18, and other fees and expenses advanced of $11,618.14, plus accruing interest, late charges, and other costs and fees that may be advance. 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: December 20 2016 Rae Albert 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 20th day of December, 2016 before me, a notary public in and for said County and State, personally appeared Rae Albert, 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. Shauna Romrell Notary Public Bingham County, Idaho Commission expires: 06/04/2022 January 12, 19, 26, 2017 MNAXLP
FVCC hosting Women's Choral Festival, Feb. 6-7
Superlative high school students from throughout Northwest Montana will come together Feb. 6-7 for the biennial Women’s Choral Festival.
No headline
After three days of packing, planning, weighing and measuring, it was time for Ken Yarus and Richie Carter to go.
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THURSDAY, JAN. 26
Ultrasound: The anti-science left's bugaboo
Abortion extremists are the new Luddites.
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I believe Jeff Sessions should not be confirmed as attorney general of the United States.
Bigfork Film Festival seeking movie vets
The organizers of the Bigfork Film Festival are looking for Flathead Valley residents with experience in the movie industry to share their stories during this fall’s event.
12th annual Backcountry Film Festival Feb. 4
The Flathead-Kootenai chapter of the Montana Wilderness Association will celebrate the human-powered experience, Saturday, Feb. 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.
Annual Father-Daughter Ball set for Feb. 3
The third annual Father-Daughter Winter Ball, presented by Whitefish Theatre Co., welcomes fathers and daughters of all ages to the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish, Friday, Feb. 3 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Wolfpack edges Big Sky
The Glacier girls made their first shot of the game, didn’t score for another nine minutes of game time and still came out with their second conference win of the season in a 30-28 home basketball victory over Missoula Hellgate on Thursday night.
Flathead wrestlers stick it to Sentinel
The Daily Inter Lake
Glacier slips by Hellgate
MISSOULA — Caden Harkins sank a 10-footer in the lane with two seconds remaining to push Glacier past Missoula Hellgate 53-52 in a Western AA boys basketball thriller Thursday evening.
Wednesday, January 25
Hospital plans transition to new leadership
Days after Kalispell Regional Healthcare President Velinda Stevens died, the hospital’s leadership team gathered in the same conference room where Stevens had announced health-care expansions less than a year before. This time, they were there to describe how the organization planned to move forward in her absence.
Testimony heard on bill banning use of foreign law in state courts
Montana residents, many from the Flathead Valley, packed into the Montana State Capitol’s Old Supreme Court Chambers on Tuesday morning to offer support for state legislation that would prohibit the use of foreign law in Montana’s courts.
Local teams look to reclaim top spot
Flathead and Glacier high school speech and debate teams are hoping to earn the coveted title of state champion this weekend.
C-Falls aims for another state title
Columbia Falls High School is aiming to continue its speech and debate domination with a 12th consecutive Class A state title after an undefeated season.
Dinosaur snow sculptures bring cheer
A pair of snow dinosaurs that recently popped up on Margrethe Drive in Kalispell is the culmination of a bucket, lots of packed snow and a few hours of work each day over three days.
Flathead jobless rate increases in December
Unemployment rates in Flathead and surrounding counties inched upward in December.
Woman accused of drunken driving with child in car
A 32-year-old woman was arrested after allegedly being caught driving under the influence of alcohol during a traffic stop with a child in the vehicle.
James F. Brown, 81
James Brown, 81, passed away at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Jan. 22, 2017, with his children at his side.
Eugene Edward Lanquist, 94
Eugene Edward Lanquist passed away on Dec. 31, 2016, at home in Kalispell.
Driver stranded at the car wash
A woman called the Columbia Falls Police Department when her vehicle became stuck in a car wash on Ninth Street West. The woman told police the wash cycle had finished, but the door wouldn’t open to allow her to drive out. The woman also called an employee at the car wash for help, and was eventually able to find a button opening a door that allowed her to back the vehicle out without police assistance.
Bison slaughters temporarily blocked
BILLINGS — Montana Gov. Steve Bullock has blocked for now the impending slaughter of hundreds of Yellowstone National Park bison over disease concerns until a temporary home can be found for 40 of the animals wanted by an American Indian tribe.
Gianforte seeks to run in special election for US House
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Recent gubernatorial candidate Greg Gianforte plans to seek the Republican nomination in a special election for Montana's U.S. House seat.
Autopsy: Sandpoint man shot to death in Yaak
Authorities have determined that an Idaho man found dead in the Yaak earlier this month was shot to death.
Hockey group raising money for concrete rink
The Flathead Valley Hockey Association has a goal that is literally set in stone.
Committee takes up 9 bills on criminal justice system
Several bills aiming to reform Montana’s criminal justice system while saving tens of millions of dollars in annual incarceration costs have cleared their first legislative hurdle, while other related measures were tabled in committee.
Actress Mary Tyler Moore is dead at age 80, publicist says
NEW YORK (AP) — Mary Tyler Moore, the star of two of TV's best-loved sitcoms, has died.
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Ballot effort proposed for Egan Slough district
Two Egan Slough area residents are leading a petition drive for a special election that would allow residents throughout Flathead County to vote on expanding the Egan Slough Zoning District.
Legals January 25, 2017
No. 24202 CALL FOR BIDS Notice is hereby given that the Board of County Commissioners of Flathead County, Montana, will receive bids on ONE (1) NEW CAB & CHASSIS DIESEL PLOW TRUCK, minimum 58,000 GVWR. 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 one hundred fifty (150) 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 his bid to secure the bidder's 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 "58,000 GVWR Diesel Truck", 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 Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at 5:00 o'clock p.m.. Bids will be opened and read at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 9, 2017 in the Commissioners' Chambers, located on the third floor of the old courthouse. 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 Board of Commissioners. Dated this 12th day of January, 2017. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Flathead County, Montana By: /s/ Gary D. Krueger Gary D. Krueger, Chairman January 18, 25, 2017 MNAXLP
Busy week without games
The Glacier and Flathead boys basketball teams have played a combined one game in the last 12 days.
Tuesday, January 24
Tax-exempt bill for seniors faces scrutiny
A bill that would make Montanans’ social security benefits exempt from income taxes met scrutiny due to its annual $75 million price tag during a Senate hearing in the capital on Tuesday morning.
Bill would reduce amount of de-icers used on Montana roads
Montana is using too much salt on its highways, according to a Hungry Horse lawmaker who wants to scale back the state’s use of de-icers in the name of road safety and the protection of water quality.
Lake County officials report drug arrests
Over a 24-hour period, Lake County law enforcement arrested two men and seized a sizable amount of heroin, methamphetamine and marijuana in two separate incidents.
Bill would allow firearms in post offices
A Kalispell lawmaker is pushing a proposal to allow Montanans to bring firearms into post offices, although opponents Tuesday contended it would place state law into conflict with the U.S. Constitution.
Dale Howell, 89
Dale Howell, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather passed away from natural causes at his home in Polson with family members at his side Jan. 20, 2017.
Florence Lucille (Derencin) Welsh, 98
Florence Lucille (Derencin) Welsh, 98, passed away peacefully Jan. 22, 2017, in Columbia Falls.
Marvin E. Twamley, 90
Marvin E. Twamley, 90, of Lakeside, died on Jan. 20, 2017.
Walter Earl Whirry, 89
Walter Earl Whirry, 89, died Jan. 21, 2017, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Customer goes postal, throws trash
The Columbia Falls Police Department responded to a report of littering when an upset post office customer reportedly threw trash all over on First Street East in Columbia Falls. Officers contacted the alleged litterbug and advised him or her of the possible crime.
Erhardt 'Curly' Weidner, 82
Erhardt “Curly” Weidner, 82, passed away in Kalispell on Jan. 21, 2017. Curly has fought cancer since 2002.
Doris May Heuscher Ingram, 85
Doris May Heuscher Ingram, 85, passed away peacefully Dec. 29, 2016.
Velinda Jaynett Stevens, 64
On Jan. 22, 2017, those of us who knew and loved Velinda Stevens, lost one of our greatest gifts. She passed away in the comfort of her home in Kalispell. Breast cancer took Velinda from us before we were ready, but her contributions to our lives will continue in perpetuity.
Richard Jepsen, 82
Richard Jepsen, 82, passed away peacefully in the presence of his family, on Jan. 19, 2017, at the Brendan House.
Bigfork speech and debate team takes first at B-C divisionals
Bigfork High School Speech and Debate finished strong at the Class B-C divisionals last weekend, placing first with 102 points overall, and taking second in the drama competition with 46 points.
Kila Rep. Carl Glimm will seek nomination for House seat
Kila Rep. Carl Glimm has announced that he will seek the Republican Party’s nomination to fill an expected vacancy of Montana’s lone seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Oscar nominees include Kalispell's Michelle Williams
Actress tabbed for fourth time for role in “Manchester by the Sea”
Kalispell native Michelle Williams earned her fourth career Academy Award nomination Tuesday morning as the complete list of 2017 Oscar nominees was revealed.
Carol Jane Culkins, 59
Carol Jane Culkins, 59, of Kalispell, passed away Jan. 13, 2017.
Mary Louise Monk Lavin, 100
Mary Lavin passed away in her own home on Jan. 19, 2017, surrounded by her loving family. She had recently celebrated her 100th birthday.
Airport reports fifth consecutive record year
Passenger count nears half-million
Tribal leaders to hold meeting on trail system
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes will hold a community outreach meeting on Wednesday to discuss a proposed trail system.
Legals January 24, 2017
No. 24190 Cassie R. Dellwo MACKOFF KELLOGG LAW FIRM 38 Second Ave E Dickinson ND 58601 Phone: 701-227-1841 Fax: 701-225-6878 Attorney for the Plaintiff CDellwo@mackoff.com MT Bar #11880 MONTANA ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, FLATHEAD COUNTY Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree Mortgage Loan Trust 2005 - HE - 1, Plaintiff, v. Donald E. Garding; Franklin Credit Management Corporation; U.S. Bank, N.A. as Trustee for Bear Stearns Home Loan Owner Trust 2001-A, Defendants. Cause No. DV-15-1113 NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure by the District Court of the Eleventh Judicial District in and for the County of Flathead and State of Montana, and entered and docketed in the Office of the Clerk of said Court on August 31, 2016, in an action wherein Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree Mortgage Loan Trust 2005-HE-1, was Plaintiff and Donald E. Garding; Franklin Credit Management Corporation; and U.S. Bank, N.A. as Trustee for Bear Stearns Home Loan Owner Trust 2001-A, were Defendants, in favor of Plaintiff and against the Defendants for the sum of $138,559.07, which judgment and decree, among other things, direct the sale by me of the real property hereinafter described, to satisfy the amount of said judgment, with interest thereon and the costs and expenses of such sale, or so much thereof as the proceeds of said sale will satisfy; and by virtue of a writ issued to me out of the office of the Clerk of said Court, I, Chuck Curry, Sheriff of Flathead County, Montana, or a Deputy on behalf of the Sheriff, will sell the property described in the Judgment to the highest bidder for cash or credit bid at public auction at the lobby of the Justice Center in the City of Kalispell in the County of Flathead, and State of Montana, on the 31st day of January, 2017, at the hour of 10:00 A.M., to satisfy the amount due, with interest thereon, and the costs and expenses of such sale, or so much thereof as the proceeds of such sale will satisfy. The property to be sold is situated in the County of Flathead, and State of Montana, and described as follows: ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE IN THE COUNTY OF FLATHEAD AND STATE OF MONTANA, KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT 487 OF HAPPY VALLEY HOMESITES, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK AND RECORDER OF FLATHEAD COUNTY, MONTANA. Physical location: 468 Bear Trail, Whitefish, MT 59937. Dated this 5th day of January, 2017. FLATHEAD COUNTY SHERIFF CHUCK CURRY By: Civil Bureau Civil Bureau MACKOFF KELLOGG LAW FIRM 38 Second Ave E Dickinson ND 58601 Attorney for the Plaintiff January 10, 17, 24, 2017 MNAXLP
What it felt like to join the Women's March in Helena
I would like to tell you about Saturday, which I spent in Helena, with 10,000 people on the Women’s March on Montana, one of nearly 700 sister marches for the Women’s March on Washington.”
Trump and America's economy
Most of those who liked Donald Trump’s inaugural speech Friday probably voted for him. And many others, if they bothered to pay attention, surely came away feeling sour. That’s not a reflection of President Trump as an especially divisive figure. That’s politics in an especially divided nation. All of us recall similar fissures after the inaugurations of Presidents George W. Bush in 2000 and Barack Obama in 2008.
Bravettes bowl over Big Sky
By JOSEPH TERRY
Glacier beats on Hellgate in mat dual
What better way to conclude a prep career in your final home wrestling dual of the season than with a pin.
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Kalispell Wrestling Club sign-up on Thursday at FHS
Monday, January 23
Kalispell Regional President Velinda Stevens dies
Kalispell Regional Healthcare President Velinda Stevens died early Sunday morning after a long battle with breast cancer, according to hospital officials.
Women's March in Helena draws 10,000
HELENA — Organizers of the Women’s March on Montana estimate there were 10,000 people gathered at the Capitol in Helena on Saturday.
Affordable housing bill gets preliminary House approval
Despite broad support in a state legislative committee, legislation intended to clarify a type of affordable-housing arrangement gaining traction in the Flathead Valley faced substantial opposition in the Montana House of Representatives on Monday.
Man 'done with this town'
A man told the Whitefish Police Department “he’s done with this town” after reporting that his best friend punched him in the face.
Kalispell to offer new high school courses
Several new courses will be offered at Flathead and Glacier high schools in 2017-18 school year.
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ImagineIF Library Foundation hires new executive director
The ImagineIF Library Foundation recently hired a new executive director and appointed five new members to its 2017 board of trustees.
Realtors want short-term rentals throughout county
By LYNNETTE HINTZE Daily Inter Lake
First-year legislators learn the ropes
HELENA — In Montana politics, you’ll often hear the every-other-year state legislative session referred to as “the fire hose.” More than 1,000 bills to review over a fast-paced, 90-day policymaking sprint.
Glacier sophomore heading to Carnegie Hall
From her toddler days of singing “Take Me to the Ball Game” in home videos, to present day renditions of the Italian aria “Se Florindo è fedele,” 15-year-old Bria Anderson has made her way to Carnegie Hall.
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The Kalispell City Council is set to workshop rules around requirements for alcohol sale at city park events as council members continue to debate whether to change the rules and allow for-profit events to apply for the chance to sell alcohol.
Legals January 23, 2017
No. 24200 AUTHORIZATION TO PUBLISH REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) FOR ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES The ImagineIF Library Board is requesting a Statement of Qualifications from firms interested in providing architectural services to ImagineIF Libraries pursuant to the requirements of Section 18-8201 et seq., M.C.A. Services needed include a feasibility study comparing two properties and conceptual drawings of a 55,000 sf central library. Copies of the detailed RFQ, including a description of services to be provided by respondents, the minimum content of responses and the factors used to evaluate the responses can be found on the ImagineIF Libraries webpage at: http://imagineiflibraries.org/about-us/news/ or by contacting Kim Crowley, ImagineIF Libraries, 247 First Ave E, Kalispell, MT 59901- (406) 758-5826 / kcrowly@imagineiflibraries.org. All statements must be submitted to ImaginIF Libraries by 11:00 a.m. local time on February 6, 2017 Flathead County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Dated January 12, 2017 Library Board of Trustees ImagineIF Libraries, Flathead County, Montana By: Terry Guidi, Terry Guidi, Chair January 16, 23, 2017 MNAXLP
Sunday, January 22
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People with stories of caring for someone with dementia spoke before state legislators Thursday morning. They expressed support for adding $1.5 million to Montana’s budget for families touched by Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Roughly $93,000 of that could unfold within Flathead County, according to the local Agency on Aging.
District looks to expand school parking lot
Kalispell Public Schools is looking into purchasing two homes to expand the Flathead High School parking lot.
Man convicted in shooting incident
A man was convicted on Jan. 12 of felony criminal endangerment for allegations that he shot at a newspaper delivery driver at the end of May.
Man sentenced for road-rage incident
Flathead District Court Judge Heidi Ulbricht followed the sentencing recommendation on Thursday of a prosecutor in sentencing a Eureka man who was convicted in a case of alleged road rage that took place on Memorial Day in Kalispell.
Polson man admits having illegal gun in drug stop
A Polson man pleaded guilty in federal district court in Missoula on Jan. 12 to one felony count of possession of a firearm not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
Police assist with car troubles
A caller told the Kalispell Police Department that a vehicle was broken down near South Main Street. The caller said the vehicle was blocking traffic, and that nothing on the vehicle was working, including the hazard lights. Before officers could assist, the driver called back to let police know a passer-by stopped and helped push the vehicle out of traffic. The driver was eventually able to “jiggle the battery cable” to get the vehicle back on the road.
Man accused of threatening woman
A man is being held in Flathead County Detention Center with bail set at $100,000 for allegedly telling officers he intended to “violate, violate, violate” an order of protection in an attempt to see his children.
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A mission of safety on the roads
Of the eight Montana Highway Patrol districts, District 6 is consistently one of the busiest. The district covers Flathead, Lake and Lincoln counties.
Investing in Montana's future
The 2017 legislative session got underway on Jan. 2, and the people of Montana have the chance to weigh in on our state’s priorities. The old saying, “Don’t tell me your priorities; show me your budget,” comes to mind. The budget proposed by Gov. Bullock invests in our future in a number of ways. Montana can have a solid physical infrastructure while at the same time investing in the next generation and providing early education for all Montana’s children. Montana remains one of five states without a statewide pre-K education program. We owe it to our working families to change this.
Legislator provides his views on infrastructure and budget
The first two weeks of the 65th Montana legislative session are now behind us.
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Have you ever wondered how fascism became so powerful in Germany when less than 10 percent of the people were members of the Nazi Party? According to Hitler’s propaganda minister Joseph Goebbels, there was a specific strategy to controlling the majority of people. It might be useful to review these strategies and see if any of these apply today.
President Trump and the end of politics as usual
President Donald J. Trump was sworn in as the 45th president of the United States on Friday, and he began his term with a call to action and a promise that politics as usual would come to a grinding halt in Washington, D.C.
The American ideal and the challenges still ahead
I read the headline “America’s Last Hurrah” with an excited curiosity. Sounded like somebody might understand history in general and our history in particular.
Zinke: Leading Interior is great honor and responsibility
As a son of a plumber and a kid who grew up in a small timber and railroad town next to Glacier National Park in Montana, I am humbled to be the president-elect’s designee for secretary of the interior. I am also humbled because of the great responsibility the position holds to be the steward of majestic public lands, the champion of our great Indian nations, and the manager and voice of our diverse wildlife.
Kalispell Chamber details agenda
Buoyed by a new highway bypass and strong growth in the retail, health-care and tourist industries, the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce expects a good year for the local economy.
Kalispell Regional President Velinda Stevens dies of cancer
Kalispell Regional Healthcare President Velinda Stevens died early Sunday morning after a long battle with cancer, the hospital announced in a press release.
Saturday, January 21
Trump's victory was on shoulders of American people
It was approximately 18 months ago when I wrote my first column about Donald Trump. Like many of the columns I have written before and after it, the focus was illegal immigration.
'For the forgotten men and women'
The full text of Donald Trump’s inaugural address
C?hief Justice Roberts, President Carter, President Clinton, President Bush, President Obama, fellow Americans, and people of the world: thank you.
Arntzen says test-score report 'falsified'
HELENA (AP) — Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen said some Montana student test data submitted to the U.S. Department of Education weeks before she took office were “falsified” and out of compliance.
Women's march draws thousands to Helena
HELENA (AP) — Despite below-freezing temperatures, thousands of people attended a march and rally in Helena in answer to President Donald Trump’s inauguration.
Flathead native aiming to visit every ski hill in North America
Should you happen to bump into John Andrew, it’s pretty likely he’ll be at a ski hill, chatting with a stranger and cracking one-liners.
Whitefish residents push for tax-relief legislation
A gaggle of Whitefish Lake residents convened in the Montana State Capitol Friday to advocate for legislation that would ease property taxes on some state homeowners with skyrocketing land values.
Senior volunteer program set to end
A nearly 40-year-old program that connects seniors with volunteer opportunities is ending this year due to a lack of funding.
Winter Warm Up connects families to services
The annual Winter Warm Up commmunity event will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26, at the Gateway Community Center, 1203 U.S. 2 W., in Kalispell.
Man protects boat found in the road
A man called the Columbia Falls Police Department to report that some type of small boat was in the middle of the road. The caller remained on scene with his flashers on until the owner of the boat returned to retrieve it.
Frank Leon Levandowski, 72
Frank Leon Levandowski, 72, a generous, hardworking man who never met a stranger, died Jan. 13, 2017, surrounded by his family.
Leota 'Dutch' Porteus, 81
Leota “Dutch” Porteus, 81, passed away peacefully with family at her side on Jan. 14, 2017, at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.
Edith P. Smith, 76
Edith P. Smith, 76, of Whitefish, born Jan. 9, 1941, passed away Jan. 14 2017.
Jere R. Gregory, 64
Jere Ramsdell Gregory, 64, of Cedar Falls, Iowa, died Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017, at his home.
Dozens gather in Kalispell for Pro-Life Rally
About 50 women, men and children gathered outside the Flathead County Courthouse in Kalispell on Saturday afternoon for the annual Pro-Life Rally and March for Life. The anti-abortion rally is sponsored by Flathead Pro-Life and is scheduled each year around the anniversary of Roe v. Wade — the U.S. Supreme Court case that on Jan. 22, 1973 decided that a woman’s right to an abortion was protected by the Constitution.
Agency moves to transfer bison range to tribes
Two days before the official end of Barack Obama’s presidency, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced it was initiating an environmental review to consider returning the National Bison Reserve to the Flathead Indian Reservation.
Grandparenting can quickly become an obsession
I think I might be addicted to my granddaughter.
Don K adds detail building to Whitefish dealership
The Don K car dealership in Whitefish has embarked on another round of expansion with the addition of a $650,000 accessory and detail building that is an extension of the business’ Subaru operation.
Legals January 21, 2017
No. 24169 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at 2pm, Batavia Self Storage 190 Batavia Ln will have a live auction to the highest bidder on abandoned storage units owing delinquent storage rent. The goods to be sold are described as household goods. The terms of the sale will be cash, money order, certified check. Units are reserved subject to redemption by owner prior to sale.All Sales final. Units 6, 17, 28, 35, 54, 58, 95, 99, 122, 136, 209, 221, 300, 340, 346, 348, 359, 398, 416, 437, 451, 459, YD029 January 4, 7, 14, 21, 2017 MNAXLP
Bozeman tops Flathead in AA Duals mat final
GREAT FALLS — Flathead finished second to Bozeman at the Class AA Duals wrestling tournament on Saturday.
Swimming Babcock wins 2 events; Burnham breaks 2 records
MISSOULA — Colton Babcock of Columbia Falls was one of five double winners at the Missoula Invitational swim meet on Saturday at the Griz Pool.
Wildkats bounce back, buck Broncs
The Daily Inter Lake
Friday, January 20
Man pleads guilty to concert thefts
Brian David Radabah, 25, pleaded guilty to one felony count of theft for stealing items during an orchestra concert as per a plea agreement on Thursday in Flathead District Court.
Plea hearing moved to February for woman shot by deputy
A change in plea hearing for a Columbia Falls woman who was shot by a Flathead County Sheriff’s deputy in 2013, has been rescheduled to February.
Man fights a bat-wielding boyfriend
Kalispell Police Department received a report from a woman on Fourth Avenue East who said a man, who had reportedly slept in her car, was being held up against a house by her baseball bat-wielding boyfriend and a neighbor. The man reportedly attempted to fight the boyfriend before other people showed up and the man ran down an alley.
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Living on Trump Drive
Hours after Donald Trump took his oath as the 45th president of the United States on Friday, I decided to take a walk along Trump Drive in Kalispell to see if neighborhood residents were ambivalent, in celebration, or mourning. Standing on the street now named after one of the most powerful leaders in the world, I began knocking on doors.
Hundreds from Flathead expected to join Helena rally
Among the thousands of women expected to hold hands and encircle the State Capitol during the Women’s March on Montana today will be an 82-year-old great-grandmother whose optimism outweighs her anger.
Photo gallery: Montana Pond Hockey Classic
State agrees to pay asbestos victims $24M
The state of Montana has agreed to pay just over $24 million to victims of asbestos disease to settle claims that state health officials did not warn Libby residents about the toxic exposure created by the W.R. Grace & Co. vermiculite mine.
Trump takes charge: Sworn in as nation's 45th president
WASHINGTON (AP) — Pledging to empower America's "forgotten men and women," Donald Trump was sworn in as the 45th president of the United States Friday, taking command of a deeply divided nation and ushering in an unpredictable era in Washington. His victory gives Republicans control of the White House for the first time in eight years.
Photo gallery: Trump takes oath as 45th president of the United States
Longtime project coming to fruition
It’s been a long time coming — 17 years to be exact — but it looks as though the commercial and residential community planned so many years ago for the area north of West Reserve Drive is poised to finally materialize.
Trump lives deep in Putin's pocket results for NATO, U.S.
Here’s a thought exercise: What do you suppose would happen if Russian strongman Vladimir Putin decided to clarify remarks he reportedly made about Donald Trump during the election campaign?
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With the inauguration fast approaching, let us all come together and agree on the following: Donald Trump was lawfully elected to be the 45th president of the United States.
Caller concerned about loose logs
A driver on Spokane Avenue called the Whitefish Police Department to report a logging truck was losing some logs off the back of the load while driving. Officers were unable to locate the truck.
Wildkats can't stop Sentinel
The Daily Inter Lake
Columbia Falls goes 4-0 at A Duals
BELGRADE — Havre, Columbia Falls, Sidney and Lewistown were all pool winners on Friday at the Class A Duals wrestling tournament.
Thursday, January 19
The Pond Hockey Classic is back!
The Montana Pond Hockey classic is back where it belongs — on Foys Lake.
Lawmaker seeks to rebuke judge over marijuana ruling
HELENA (AP) — A Republican Senate leader who says he wants to stop judges from treading on the Legislature’s turf has introduced a measure that would rebuke a Montana judge for changing the effective date of a voter-approved medical marijuana ballot initiative.
Doris May Heuscher Ingram, 85
Doris May Heuscher Ingram, 85, passed away peacefully Dec. 29, 2016.
Lewis D. 'Pete' Ransier, 87
Lewis D. “Pete” Ransier, 87, of Rexford, died on Jan. 11, 2017, at Brendan House in Kalispell.
Man allegedly tries to spear officer
A man has been charged with felony assault on a peace officer after he allegedly threw a piece of moulding like a spear at a police officer.
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Aryus Romain, son of Ian and Elizabeth Romain, was born Oct. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Council considers boundary changes
A small crowd of Kalispell property owners gathered in council chambers on Tuesday night to debate the city’s proposed new boundaries for the Kalispell Business Improvement District which, for many, means new taxes.
Bill would raise drop-out age
HELENA — Raising Montana’s minimum age to drop out of public school from 16 to 18 has been voted down by several previous Legislatures, and the latest proposal, brought before the House Education Committee on Wednesday, could face stiffer opposition given the current budget shortfall.
State contends clinic vandal should pay restitution
The Montana State Attorney General’s office wants the man serving a five-year sentence for destroying a Kalispell health clinic to also pay the full $642,477.29 of restitution ordered to be paid back to the owner of the clinic.
Sheriffs: State prisoners a burden on local jails
Taxpayers in Flathead County are paying about $80,000 per year to house the state’s prisoners in its “woefully overcrowded” jail, Sheriff Chuck Curry told a panel of lawmakers in Helena on Thursday.
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Lakeshore tax-relief bill gets first look
HELENA — Citing the sharp growth in property taxes paid by homeowners along the shores of Flathead and Whitefish lakes, a Flathead legislator is pushing a bill to provide relief for some Montana homeowners whose property-tax bills have spiked in recent years.
Legals January 19, 2017
No. 24167 AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE & MOVING LLC NOTICE OF AUCTION BY PUBLICATION On JANUARY 21, 2017 at 10AM AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE & MOVING LLC, pursuant to MCA 70-6-420, will auction to the highest bidder by silent written bid the contents of abandoned storage units owing delinquent storage rent for the following unit numbers: 10 and 16. The units contain household goods, furniture, tools, electronic equipment, sporting goods, water craft and vehicles. These units may be viewed by appointment at AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE AT 48573 US HWY 93 N POLSON, MT 59901 during the day of the sale from 9 AM to 10AM. Written sealed bids may be submitted to AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE at that time. Buyer's bid will be for the entirety of the contents of each unit. Only cash, cashiers checks and money orders accepted for payment NO CHECKS. AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE reserves the right to refuse any bid or to cancel or postpone the auction for all or part of the units scheduled for sale and also to bid on the units on behalf of AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE. December 30, and January 6, 12, 19, 2016 MNAXLP
Cinemafest to feature local films
The fifth annual Flathead Lake International Cinemafest kicks off this weekend in Polson with a large offering of local films.
Major commercial, residential project resurrected
The first phase of development for a 485-acre site once pegged for a large shopping mall and later as a mixed-use lifestyle community is headed to the Kalispell City Council for approval next month.
MHSA board gives class realignment final approval
HELENA — The Montana High School Association executive board took final action on the realignment of classes A and B and placement for eight- and six-player football at its annual meeting on Monday.
Final approval granted for water-ski subdivision
The two man-made lakes — each 2,300 feet long, 250 feet wide and 8 feet deep — are full, bearing roughly 30 million gallons of water.
Are they activists or sponsors of anarchy?
Hoodlums will be out in full force this Inauguration Day weekend. Count on it.
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The 20th will see the inauguration of our 45th president of the United States. Some will rejoice, some will demur and for the really loathsome, some will object with malice.
Bigfork Community Players auditioning for 'Panache'
The Bigfork Community Players are producing Don Gordon’s romantic comedy, “Panache” and open auditions are Friday, Jan. 27 and Saturday, Jan. 28.
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THURSDAY, JAN. 19
Glacier boys slide by C-Falls
COLUMBIA FALLS — The Glacier boys dominated their final nonconference game, topping Columbia Falls 65-32 on Thursday night at Larry Schmautz Memorial Gym.
Wednesday, January 18
No headline
Naomi Nice, daughter of Ryan and Amanda Nice, was born Oct. 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Former clinic worker accused of trying to obtain painkillers
A former employee of a Whitefish clinic has been charged with a felony after allegedly using her employment at the clinic in an attempt to obtain painkillers.
Man sentenced to probation for stealing unemployment benefits
A Kalispell man will have to pay back to more than $11,000 in unemployment benefits that he admitted he stole from the state, plus a 33 percent penalty.
Couple admit to not paying taxes since 1998
A St. Ignatius couple admitted in federal court on Jan. 11 to not reporting years’ worth of income to the federal government.
C-Falls man accused of stealing from landlord
A $5,000 arrest warrant was issued Jan. 9 for a Columbia Falls man after he allegedly stole items valued at thousands of dollars from a residence he had rented and then pawned the goods.
Kalispell plagued by gas thieves
Kalispell Police Department took a report of a woman who was allegedly caught on camera stealing gas from First Avenue East twice over two days.
Kalispell moves forward on core area plan
The Kalispell City Council voted Tuesday night to push plans forward to shift rail use out of the city’s core area and transform the heart of Kalispell into a city center.
Report details fatal avalanche
The Kalispell man killed in an avalanche while backcountry skiing in Glacier National Park on Jan. 5 possibly triggered the slide while weighting his skis in an attempt to test snow stability, according to an incident report from the Flathead Avalanche Center released Tuesday.
Annual radiothon expands Wings' reach
A nonprofit that raises funds for cancer patients’ expenses not covered by insurance has set a goal to raise $100,000 in the next two days in order to maintain its reach in the community.
Bill seeks access to public information
HELENA — Mugshots taken when a criminal is arrested in Montana would become public information under a bill sponsored by a Kalispell lawmaker and former chief of police.
Federal study on Dakota Access pipeline to move forward
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A federal judge said Wednesday he won’t keep the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers from launching a full environmental study of the $3.8 billion Dakota Access pipeline’s disputed crossing under a Missouri River reservoir in North Dakota.
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TODay
Rabbis plan response to white supremacist threats in Montana
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Orthodox Jewish rabbis said Wednesday they will counter white supremacists' harassment of the Jewish community in the Montana town of Whitefish by sending students to visit the Auschwitz concentration camp and by mailing a Torah to every Jewish family in the state.
Fairview man gets life in prison for killing Kalispell woman
SIDNEY, Mont. (AP) — A Fairview man has been sentenced to life in prison for killing a Kalispell woman that he had been dating.
Officials investigate death in Yaak area
LIBBY — The Lincoln County sheriff’s office says it is investigating a suspicious death in extreme northwestern Montana.
Whitefish won't allow guns at neo-Nazi march
The city of Whitefish will use a state law to forbid participants from carrying firearms in a neo-Nazi march that may be held in Whitefish sometime in February.
Earning a win in 10 seconds or less
Blink and you could miss it.
Tuesday, January 17
Flames were just to keep warm
What appeared to be flames coming through the window of a motor home that had propane tanks and people inside on First Avenue West and 18th Street West turned out to be someone “burning rubbing alcohol to keep [the] entrance warm.” Kalispell Police Department counseled people involved.
Glacier tops Butte at weekend speech meet
Glacier High School Speech and Debate placed first this weekend in the final tournament before the state tournament.
Columbia Falls takes first at Ronan tournament
First place went to Columbia Falls High School Speech and Debate team this weekend as the team heads to divisionals.
Man gets 5 years for 7th DUI
A man was sentenced to the Montana Department of Corrections for five years on Thursday, for his seventh drinking and driving offense.
Zinke takes hot seat at confirmation hearing
WASHINGTON — Montana Rep. Ryan Zinke, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of the Interior, disputed Trump’s belief that climate change is a “hoax” and forcefully reaffirmed his opposition to the sale of public lands during his confirmation hearing Tuesday in front of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.
Election offers further proof that Fielder's views don't represent most Montanans
In her Nov. 27 op-ed, Montana state Sen. Jennifer Fielder continued to perpetuate phony myths about American public lands in an attempt to prop up her naive attempts to dispose of them.
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Math vs. Trump
Kiska's relocates Southern cuisine to Kalispell
Kiska’s Southern Kitchen, the month-old relaunch from the owner of the former Kiska’s by the Lake in Bigfork, will begin offering lunch delivery service in Kalispell from its new location at The Docks on Central Ave.
Owner expands to take on bakery business
Stumptown Marketplace owner David Gatton hadn’t planned on running the candy store inside the market when he bought the building in Whitefish three years ago. And he certainly hadn’t planned on taking on the bakery next door.
New McDonald's to feature tech upgrades
Big plans are in store this year for the McDonald’s restaurant that raised the golden arches in Kalispell in 1974.
RockFish gym aims to create climbing team
Since opening in August, the RockFish Climbing Gym and Fitness Center in Whitefish has hosted a public climbing competition, started an after-school climbing program for kids and taken steps toward running an accredited college course.
Sushi chef finds his niche at Smith's in Kalispell
Nay Myo Thu Swe, the 33-year-old owner, operator and chef at the sushi bar inside Smith’s grocery store in Kalispell, wanted to be just like his father — an engineer on a cargo ship cruising off the coast of Myanmar.
Echo Lake murderer sent to prison for 110 years
The Kalispell man convicted of stabbing a man 25 times and stashing the body under a log at Echo Lake in May was sentenced Tuesday to 110 years in Montana State Prison and 45 years without the eligibility of parole. Robert Matthew Wittal, 29, was found guilty by a jury in October of the deliberate homicide of Wade Rautio, 35.
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Interior nominee Zinke urges array of uses for federal lands
WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump's choice for interior secretary says the nation's vast federal lands should be used for a variety of purposes, from hiking, hunting, fishing and camping to harvesting timber and mining for coal and other energy sources.
Man convicted of murder to be sentenced today
A Kalispell man continues to maintain his innocence in the May 26, 2016, murder of Wade Rautio, but nonetheless has asked a judge to send him to prison for decades.
Raceway subdivision on hold amid density and access concerns
A proposed subdivision at Montana Raceway Park north of Kalispell has been put on hold until the developer comes up with a different design and addresses access issues.
Seminar delves into dementia training
Every 66 seconds, someone in the United States is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or some form of dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. About 27,000 Montanans are projected to carry that diagnosis by 2025. In response, local health-care workers are increasing efforts to educate Montana communities on how to react to the disease.
Legals January 17, 2017
No. 24190 Cassie R. Dellwo MACKOFF KELLOGG LAW FIRM 38 Second Ave E Dickinson ND 58601 Phone: 701-227-1841 Fax: 701-225-6878 Attorney for the Plaintiff CDellwo@mackoff.com MT Bar #11880 MONTANA ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, FLATHEAD COUNTY Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree Mortgage Loan Trust 2005 - HE - 1, Plaintiff, v. Donald E. Garding; Franklin Credit Management Corporation; U.S. Bank, N.A. as Trustee for Bear Stearns Home Loan Owner Trust 2001-A, Defendants. Cause No. DV-15-1113 NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure by the District Court of the Eleventh Judicial District in and for the County of Flathead and State of Montana, and entered and docketed in the Office of the Clerk of said Court on August 31, 2016, in an action wherein Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree Mortgage Loan Trust 2005-HE-1, was Plaintiff and Donald E. Garding; Franklin Credit Management Corporation; and U.S. Bank, N.A. as Trustee for Bear Stearns Home Loan Owner Trust 2001-A, were Defendants, in favor of Plaintiff and against the Defendants for the sum of $138,559.07, which judgment and decree, among other things, direct the sale by me of the real property hereinafter described, to satisfy the amount of said judgment, with interest thereon and the costs and expenses of such sale, or so much thereof as the proceeds of said sale will satisfy; and by virtue of a writ issued to me out of the office of the Clerk of said Court, I, Chuck Curry, Sheriff of Flathead County, Montana, or a Deputy on behalf of the Sheriff, will sell the property described in the Judgment to the highest bidder for cash or credit bid at public auction at the lobby of the Justice Center in the City of Kalispell in the County of Flathead, and State of Montana, on the 31st day of January, 2017, at the hour of 10:00 A.M., to satisfy the amount due, with interest thereon, and the costs and expenses of such sale, or so much thereof as the proceeds of such sale will satisfy. The property to be sold is situated in the County of Flathead, and State of Montana, and described as follows: ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE IN THE COUNTY OF FLATHEAD AND STATE OF MONTANA, KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT 487 OF HAPPY VALLEY HOMESITES, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK AND RECORDER OF FLATHEAD COUNTY, MONTANA. Physical location: 468 Bear Trail, Whitefish, MT 59937. Dated this 5th day of January, 2017. FLATHEAD COUNTY SHERIFF CHUCK CURRY By: Civil Bureau Civil Bureau MACKOFF KELLOGG LAW FIRM 38 Second Ave E Dickinson ND 58601 Attorney for the Plaintiff January 10, 17, 24, 2017 MNAXLP
Braves pound Pack
By JOSEPH TERRY
No headline
TODay
Bills look to reform sentencing guidelines
HELENA — A dozen bills moving through the Montana Legislature would substantially reform the state’s criminal sentencing guidelines, with the intention of reducing overcrowding in jails and prisons while providing better addiction and mental-health treatment to offenders.
Monday, January 16
Flu season in full swing
Montana health officials say outbreaks of influenza in the state are widespread as the flu season progresses.
Convicted child rapist jailed for alleged probation violations
A Coram man found guilty in 1997 of sexually assaulting two underage girls has been arrested again for allegations that he did not follow numerous conditions of probation, was found in a bed with a toddler unsupervised, and sexually harassed a coworker.
Neighbors don't like 'funky grooves'
Kalispell Police Department received a complaint of loud music and thumping coming from a garage on Second Avenue East North. Contact was made with the music fan, who said he was “remodeling his room and jamming to some funky grooves whilst doing so.” He was advised to “turn down the funk as he was keeping neighbors up.”
Sen. Tester addresses state House of Representatives
HELENA — Touching on a bevy of issues from banking regulations to the expired lumber agreement between the U.S. and Canada, U.S. Sen. Jon Tester unveiled his sweeping “Employ Montana” plan during an address to the state House of Representatives on Monday.
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TODay
State lawmakers address invasive mussel threat
HELENA — Lawmakers from two legislative appropriations panels on Monday got their first look at a proposal to begin spending $5.1 million per year to combat the threat of invasive mussels in Montana’s waterways. The state currently spends $1.2 million annually on existing mussel prevention efforts.
Kalispell council set to approve deal with Northwest Drywall
After announcing it has reached a deal with Northwest Drywall to facilitate the company’s move to the new rail park, the Kalispell City Council on Tuesday will look to make that deal official.
Black woman's role in Montana history chronicled in new book
If Miantae Metcalf McConnell hadn’t been severely injured in a car accident nearly 17 years ago, she may never have spent the years of research it took to piece together the story of a black woman who made her mark in the Montana wilderness.
Whitefish may expedite city study for U.S. 93 corridor
County zoning proposal put on hold
Legals January 16, 2017
No. 24204 NOTICE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REQUEST FOR FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT PERMIT The Flathead County Floodplain Administrator has received the following Floodplain Development Permit application: FDP-16-28 A request by Bigfork Builders on behalf of Farren Properties, LLC for the construction of a dock within the 100-year floodplain of the Flathead River. The applicant is constructing a permanent double sided 'F' dock built to a height of 2900'6", which is one foot above the BFE 2899'6". The project is located at 1920 Riverside Road in Bigfork and further described as Tract 6DA in Section 4, Township 27 North, Range 20 West, P.M.M., Flathead County, Montana. The complete application may be viewed at our office. Written or oral comments concerning the above requests should be directed to the Floodplain Administrator at the Flathead County Planning & Zoning Office, Earl Bennett Building, 40 11TH Street West, Suite 220, Kalispell, Montana 59901, (406) 751-8200. Comments should be received by 5:00 PM on Friday, February 3, 2017. /s/ Mark Mussman Mark Mussman, CFM® Planning Director Flathead County Planning & Zoning January 16, 2017 MNAXLP
Sunday, January 15
Whitefish mulls permit for outfitting shop
The Whitefish City Council has three public hearings scheduled for its meeting on Tuesday, including a conditional-use permit request to locate a recreational guide and outfitting shop and retail store at 779 Spokane Ave.
Lakeside man charged with alleged cocaine distribution
A Lakeside man is facing a felony drug charge after allegedly being caught in possession of cocaine last year.
Man accused of mailing heroin
A man already facing five felony drug charges for allegedly trafficking heroin into Flathead Valley is now facing two more, this time for allegedly shipping the drugs through the mail.
Woman shot by deputy back in court
A Columbia Falls woman who was shot by a Flathead County Sheriff’s deputy in October 2013 is scheduled to enter a no-contest plea to misdemeanor negligent endangerment in the case on Thursday.
Man allegedly caught with meth
A Cut Bank man is wanted on a $30,000 warrant that was issued Jan. 6 for allegedly getting caught with a significant amount of methamphetamine.
Officials warn about ice jams
With temperatures expected to climb this week, the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation on Friday warned that the heavy ice covers on waterways could break apart in some areas, producing prime conditions for ice jams and associated flooding.
Fair-Mont-Egan adds superintendent position
Due to an increased number of staff, Fair-Mont-Egan will have a superintendent position for the duration of the school year.
Not the best job interview technique
A manager of a Central Avenue business called the Whitefish Police Department when a man allegedly came into the business “screaming and demanding a job.” The caller said the often rude and vulgar man had come in demanding a job before, and she wanted him trespassed from the property. The man allegedly left the business before officers arrived, and officers were unable to locate the suspect.
Council to direct architecture committee on apartment designs
During last Monday’s city council work session, council members had some disagreements about whether or not the legislative body should be a part of the designing phase for projects like the one proposed for south Kalispell, but ultimately decided to allow the architectural review committee to do the heavy lifting.
Meetings will focus on elk hunting regulations
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks will host a series of public meetings in Northwest Montana over the next few weeks, focusing on elk hunting regulations and season setting.
No headline
TODay
Community Pond Program grant applications due Feb. 1
Groups or individuals interested in constructing or improving a community fishing pond have until Feb. 1 to apply for a Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks for Community Pond Program grant.
Ten Lakes comment period extended
The comment period for the Ten Lakes Travel Management Project Draft Environmental Impact Statement on the Fortine Ranger District of the Kootenai National Forest has been extended for an additional 15 days. Comments must now be received by Feb. 14, 2017.
PROOF gets $11.42 million government contract
Columbia Falls firearm manufacturer PROOF Research has been awarded an $11.42 million contract to develop advanced weapons parts for the federal government, the has company announced.
Proposed law would expunge misdemeanors
Under Montana law, those convicted of felonies — including sexual intercourse without consent — can petition the court to have their records wiped clean through a deferred sentence, while misdemeanors remain on a person’s criminal history permanently.
Fish and Wildlife Service considers fisher protections
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced Friday it will begin a formal, one-year science review to determine whether to propose listing the Northern Rockies population of fishers under the Endangered Species Act.
Reject Trump's ambassador to Israel
David Friedman is a poor and dangerous choice as ambassador to Israel, and I urge the members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee not to approve his nomination. The U.S. ambassador to Israel holds an important and strategic position in the U.S. diplomatic force. That person must support American policy in a dangerous part of the world, and he should not carry the baggage of expressed personal positions that are counter to the best American interests in the region. The occupier of this post must be experienced in diplomatic affairs. David Friedman fails on all these counts, in particular:
Race, religion and reason
A psychiatrist’s view of good and bad in Whitefish
Without question, if Aristotle were to come to Whitefish he would proclaim it the ideal town. Goodness of ethos and form, beauty of psyche and breakfast diners would cause him to reject the stale metropolis of Athens and he would move here immediately.
FHS grad is new 4-H extension agent
A 2003 Flathead High School graduate with a strong interest in youth development has taken the reins of the 4-H program in Flathead County.
A view on the situation in Whitefish from Israel
Until just a couple of weeks ago, the only whitefish I really ever heard of was the kind you sometimes find in a small plastic container that you ate with a meal at kiddush. But, suddenly, there is a new whitefish to be reckoned with. Or, perhaps more precisely, Whitefish, Montana — population 6,649. It has a handful of lodges, a couple of restaurants, a few stores and a ski resort. I feel fairly confident in saying that the vast majority of those reading these words will have never heard of Whitefish, Montana.
Exciting new chapter for Kalispell
The final piece of the puzzle has fallen into place, and Kalispell’s core-area redevelopment plan is now looking like a blueprint for success.
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•Bald eagles are dying needlessly
Did governor try to pull a fast one?
By Al Olszewski and Dee Brown
Strausers named Whitefish Carnival royalty
Ross and Sue Strauser were crowned King Ullr and Queen of the Snows on Saturday night and will rule over the Whitefish Winter Carnival this year.
Democracy miscarries again, thanks to Electoral College
The Miami Herald ran a piece after the election by Joseph E. Uscinski, an associate professor of political science, titled “There’s a strong case to be made for Electoral College.” He claims that popular election of the president of the U.S. would make vote rigging easier “anywhere in the country.” Apparently he has not visited a local polling place or vote-counting huddle at the courthouse bossed by the election commissioner. There he would see lines of volunteer election judges, mostly elderly ladies with a few token men, who are very serious about their jobs. There’s a lot of scrutiny and integrity on the local level and election fraud would not be easy or widespread.
Flathead Valley cannot be silent about supremacists
A front page story in the Daily Inter Lake on Jan. 12 informed readers that an alt-right neo-Nazi organization has postponed its planned “armed march” in Whitefish to mid-February. This was news because a despicable hate-group leader, Andrew Anglin, made it clear that he still plans to hold an anti-Semitic parade in Flathead County. The purpose of the parade is to intimidate minority groups and to silence those citizens who have stood against age-old hateful and un-American prejudices against minorities. Anglin’s decision comes on the heels of firm action by citizen groups to protest the views of the neo-Nazis and their local co-bigot.
Saturday, January 14
In Montana, love your neighbor is not just talk
“I believe that what self-centered men have torn down, other-centered men can build up.” —Martin Luther King Jr.
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Group looks out for lookouts
With the “Polar Express” rolling through Montana the past couple of weeks, forest fires may be far from most folks’ daily concerns.
FVCC professor's poetry goes national
A Flathead Valley Community College professor’s poetry is scheduled to hit national airwaves Monday morning.
Anneli Elizabeth Margaret (Flechsig) Heintz, 90
The “Lord Jesus Christ sent his holy angels to take” Anneli Elizabeth Margaret (Flechsig) Heintz “to heaven” on Jan. 9, 2017, following a short illness.
Dorothy Burns, 77
Dorothy Burns was a loving wife, devoted mother and a caring grandmother.
George M. Dennison, 81
George M. Dennison, the longest-serving president of the University of Montana and one of the most impactful educators in the history of the state, died Jan. 3, 2017, due to complications from non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He was 81.
Robert Alan Blickenstaff, 75
Robert Alan Blickenstaff died peacefully surrounded by his family on Dec. 31, 2016, in Barrington, Illinois.
Richard Joseph Page, 34
Richard Joseph Page, 34, died unexpectedly from a congenital heart condition Saturday, Jan. 7, 2017, at his home in Whitefish.
John 'Johnny' Heidler Williams, 84
John “Johnny” Heidler Williams, 84, passed away with “peace and grace” on Christmas morning 2016 with Bonnie, his life partner of 23 years by his side.
Annie Ellen Ek, 3 weeks
Annie was born Dec. 23, 2016, in Kalispell and passed away Jan. 13, 2017, at home in Lower Valley of complications due to trisomy 13.
Flag flap was a misunderstanding
Whitefish Police Department received a call from someone who said he was headed over to the viaduct to tell someone to right a flag that was flying upside down. The caller said this was disrespectful. The man was advised to stay away. Officers spoke with the owner of the flag, who explained that a clip had broken and repairs were planned.
Dad upset that officer spoke with daughter
Whitefish Police fielded a complaint from a father who was upset that an officer might have been rude to his daughter.
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TODay
Bill gives incapacitated patients proxy decision-makers
The Monana Senate judiciary committee on Friday heard a bill that would allow health-care providers to find proxy decision-makers for patients incapable of making medical decisions.
EPA offers 'last call' for Libby asbestos cleanup
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is giving owners of residential and commercial property in Libby and Troy a final opportunity to participate in the investigation and cleanup of Libby asbestos linked to exposure from the former W.R. Grace vermiculite mine near Libby.
Kalispell considers artificial turf for Legends Stadium
Public comments accepted through Feb. 10
By HILARY MATHESON
No headline
At Bigfork Middle School on Monday, 10-year-old Samuel Plummer picked up a dark blue acoustic guitar and strummed the strings.
Group focuses on physical activity, empowerment
A school librarian and family practice physician have laced up physical activity, personal development and teamwork in a new group for girls.
Terri Lynn Saubert, 57
Terri Lynn Saubert passed away on Jan. 7, 2017, under hospice care at her home in Austin, Texas.
Legals January 14, 2017
No. 24169 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at 2pm, Batavia Self Storage 190 Batavia Ln will have a live auction to the highest bidder on abandoned storage units owing delinquent storage rent. The goods to be sold are described as household goods. The terms of the sale will be cash, money order, certified check. Units are reserved subject to redemption by owner prior to sale.All Sales final. Units 6, 17, 28, 35, 54, 58, 95, 99, 122, 136, 209, 221, 300, 340, 346, 348, 359, 398, 416, 437, 451, 459, YD029 January 4, 7, 14, 21, 2017 MNAXLP
Glacier grinds past Capital
The Daily Inter Lake
Rush, Flathead champs at Rocky
The Daily Inter Lake
Friday, January 13
Whitefish Mountain Resort moving Chair 5 to East Rim
Whitefish Mountain Resort’s Chair 5, which has sat idle atop the mountain’s south face for years, will be relocated and repurposed to the east side, the resort announced Friday.
Hundreds honor firefighter Ben Parsons at funeral
Family, friends, and fellow first responders were openly weeping as the members of the Montana State Firemen’s Association Honor Guard began to ring the bell signaling the end of watch for Whitefish firefighter Ben Parsons at his funeral on Thursday, Jan. 12, at the Flathead County fairgrounds in Kalispell.
Legals January 13, 2017
No. 24187 PUBLIC NOTICE The Board of County Commissioners of Flathead County did this 6th day of January, 2017 approve payroll and claims for payment in the amount of $8,216,788.62 for the period beginning December 1, 2016 and ending on December 31, 2016. The full and complete claim list is available for public view in the Office of the Clerk & Recorder, Flathead County Courthouse, Kalispell, Montana. Individual requests for personal copies will be accepted by the Clerk and Recorder. Dated this 6th day of January, 2017. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Flathead County, Montana By: /s/ Gary D. Krueger Gary D. Krueger, Chairman By: /s/ Debbie Pierson Debbie Pierson, Clerk & Recorder January 13, 2017 MNAXLP
Chair 5 on Big Mountain being moved to East Rim
Whitefish Mountain Resort’s Chair 5, which has sat idle atop the mountain’s south face for years, will be relocated and repurposed to the east side, the resort announced Friday.
Whitefish in running for 'most charming' ski town title
Whitefish is among 23 ski towns across America showcased in TripAdvisor’s “Most Charming Ski Vacations” online voting poll.
Capital crushes Flathead girls
Helena Capital smothered the Flathead offense in the first half, pulling away to take a Western AA conference girls basketball win 52-39 on Friday night at Flathead High School.
Braves on top at Rocky Mountain Classic
The Daily Inter Lake
Thursday, January 12
Montana Legislature Whistleblower protections proposal gets first hearing
A proposal to provide new protections for government whistleblowers got its first hearing in the Montana Legislature on Thursday, earning praise from a public employee currently suing the state for wrongful termination while prompting concerns from lawmakers that it would result in additional caseloads and costs to the state if enacted.
Cayuse Prairie asks for input on expansion
Cayuse Prairie School is asking for input from the community on potential remodeling and expansion plans.
No headline
Alesia Mathison, Daughter of Wesley and Emily Mathison, was born Sept. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
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Gavin Reed Herset, son of Matt and Amy Herset, was born Oct. 17 at North Valley Hospital.
Joyce Lugene Lape, 83
Joyce Lugene Lape, 83, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017, in Henderson, Nevada, with family by her side.
Caller feels nutty after squirrel encounter
Kalispell Police Department answered a person’s questions regarding possibly “needing a rabies shot if bit by squirrel.”
Teacher takes on necktie challenge
After about two and a half years the last necktie in Brian Fox’s collection had finally been tied.
Equestrian event generates $5.5M in economic impact
The Event at Rebecca Farm continued its reign in 2016 as the most impactful of Flathead events for the local economy.
Legals January 12, 2017
No. 24167 AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE & MOVING LLC NOTICE OF AUCTION BY PUBLICATION On JANUARY 21, 2017 at 10AM AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE & MOVING LLC, pursuant to MCA 70-6-420, will auction to the highest bidder by silent written bid the contents of abandoned storage units owing delinquent storage rent for the following unit numbers: 10 and 16. The units contain household goods, furniture, tools, electronic equipment, sporting goods, water craft and vehicles. These units may be viewed by appointment at AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE AT 48573 US HWY 93 N POLSON, MT 59901 during the day of the sale from 9 AM to 10AM. Written sealed bids may be submitted to AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE at that time. Buyer's bid will be for the entirety of the contents of each unit. Only cash, cashiers checks and money orders accepted for payment NO CHECKS. AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE reserves the right to refuse any bid or to cancel or postpone the auction for all or part of the units scheduled for sale and also to bid on the units on behalf of AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE. December 30, and January 6, 12, 19, 2016 MNAXLP
Early season hoops hint at fun second half of season
You can’t learn a ton from the pre-holiday high school basketball schedule.
'WARRIOR POET'
Before he flashes his wide, toothy smile, or greets you warmly with his bear paw of a right hand, 58-year-old Jack Gladstone, 6-foot-2 with a smoothly shaved head, looks like a fighter.
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THURSDAY, JAN. 12
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Wrestling
C-Falls girls, boys belt Whitefish
WHITEFISH — The Columbia Falls girls ran away early to beat rival Whitefish 65-22 in a Northwest A conference basketball game Thursday evening.
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TODay
Northwest Drywall deal sealed to help business move to rail park
Concessions made in a three-way agreement between the city of Kalispell, a local economic development group and Northwest Drywall will allow that business to relocate to the Glacier Rail Park rather than shutter its operation.
Officials still pushing for health-care plan sign-ups
Despite the majority of Senate Republicans working toward abolishing the Affordable Care Act, the Obama Administration is increasing efforts to get a record number of people signed up for health coverage through healthcare.gov.
Wednesday, January 11
Fundraiser held for woman injured in accident
A fundraiser will be held at IHOP in Kalispell on Sunday night to benefit a local woman who was injured in snowmobile accident north of Columbia Falls on Jan. 8.
Beverly Jean Bateman, 68
Beverly Jean Bateman of Great Falls passed away Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016, in Kalispell.
James Haldeman Armstrong Sr., 87
Our father was born Nov. 18, 1929, in Northampton, Massachusetts, to the Rev. James Newton Armstrong Jr. and Louise Storms Armstrong.
Manuel Martinez Jr., 83
Manuel Martinez Jr., born Jan. 3, 1934, died peacefully at his home in Bigfork, surrounded by family and close friends Jan. 5, 2017. Manuel fought Parkinson’s disease for well over a decade.
Owner's rep selected for Kalispell school projects
Erick Enz, president of Axiom Builders Group based in Kalispell, has been selected as the owner’s representative to manage Kalispell Public Schools’ elementary and high school construction projects totaling $54 million, but not without reservations by some trustees.
Montana Legislature revisits net-metering regulations
Several net-metering bills got their first hearing in the Montana Legislature this week, setting off another session in which lawmakers will attempt to fine-tune how small electricity generators sell excess energy to the state’s electric grid.
Council to host hearing on proposed Silverbrook changes
The Kalispell City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed changes at Silverbrook Estates, after the council decided the developer’s proposed changes may have major effects on the subdivision’s residents.
No headline
TODay
Northwest Drywall relocation deal will allow city to proceed with redevelopment plan
Late Wednesday afternoon, a deal was announced that would result in Northwest Drywall leaving its current location on Eighth Avenue West North and relocating to the Glacier Rail Park as part of the city of Kalispell’s Core Area Revitalization program.
Neo-Nazi march postponed
A neo-Nazi march planned Monday in Whitefish has been postponed and may be rescheduled in February, a white supremacist website announced Wednesday.
2016: State opened doors to sharing economy
In 2016 Montana opened its doors to the sharing economy, a new form of business that regulators have been wrestling with for nearly the past decade.
ASSIST Center opens doors
A Kalispell nonprofit has created a middle ground for patients discharged from the hospital but in danger of ending up back in the emergency room.
No headline
Montana’s U.S. senators continue to lambaste the company that runs Veterans Choice, a health-care program intended to increase veterans’ access to health care but marked by issues since its start.
Tuesday, January 10
Glacier High staff to have active-shooter training
Glacier High School staff will go through active-shooter and emergency-preparedness training Monday as part of a professional development day.
No headline
TODay
Too much pow, public complains
Kalispell Police took multiple complaints about neighbors and paid snow plow drivers shoving the snow into unwanted places. The city government issued a statement on Friday warning that snow storage capacity had almost been reached and that some public rights of way and sidewalks might end up with the freshly fallen precipitation piled on top. Officers advised that people go around berms and exercise patience with the situation.
Benjamin Jim (Curtis) Parsons, 36
Benjamin Parsons, 36, of Kalispell, died Jan. 5, 2017, in an avalanche while backcountry skiing on Stanton Mountain in Glacier National Park.
Michael James Lyngholm, 66
Michael James Lyngholm, 66, of Missoula, “has launched his next great adventure.” Mike died on Jan. 6, 2017, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Francis J. 'Nick' Engel, 97
Nick passed away on Jan. 6, 2017, at the Immanuel Lutheran Nursing Home in Kalispell.
Harriett M. 'Hattie May' (Almond) Damm, 83
Beloved sister, mother and friend, Harriett M. “Hattie May” (Almond) Damm, 83, formerly of Kalispell, resided in Oak Hills, California, at the time she passed away on Dec. 23, 2016.
Reservoir boating restrictions lifted
Tiber, Canyon Ferry reservoirs reopen after mussel scare
Citing the low level of risk for invasive mussels to be transported to other bodies of water in the state, Montana officials on Tuesday lifted boating restrictions on Tiber and Canyon Ferry reservoirs.
Remaining Badger-Two Medicine Area oil and gas leases canceled
The U.S. Department of the Interior on Tuesday announced it has canceled the last two oil and gas leases remaining in the Badger-Two Medicine Area southeast of Glacier National Park.
Police seek help in identifying casino robbers
Police are asking for help in identifying the culprits of a casino robbery that took place early Tuesday morning.
Kalispell woman injured in snowmobile accident
A single Kalispell mother is fighting for her life after a Sunday snowmobile accident left her suffering from a rare, often fatal condition.
More snow, cold on the way
The National Weather Service is forecasting this year’s second round of arctic winds to blow through Northwest Montana this week. The negative temperatures are predicted to come on the heels of a snowstorm that dumped between 3 and 6 inches of snow across the Flathead Valley as of Monday morning.
Legals January 10, 2017
No. 24190 Cassie R. Dellwo MACKOFF KELLOGG LAW FIRM 38 Second Ave E Dickinson ND 58601 Phone: 701-227-1841 Fax: 701-225-6878 Attorney for the Plaintiff CDellwo@mackoff.com MT Bar #11880 MONTANA ELEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, FLATHEAD COUNTY Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree Mortgage Loan Trust 2005 - HE - 1, Plaintiff, v. Donald E. Garding; Franklin Credit Management Corporation; U.S. Bank, N.A. as Trustee for Bear Stearns Home Loan Owner Trust 2001-A, Defendants. Cause No. DV-15-1113 NOTICE OF SALE Notice is hereby given that by virtue of a judgment of foreclosure by the District Court of the Eleventh Judicial District in and for the County of Flathead and State of Montana, and entered and docketed in the Office of the Clerk of said Court on August 31, 2016, in an action wherein Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for Green Tree Mortgage Loan Trust 2005-HE-1, was Plaintiff and Donald E. Garding; Franklin Credit Management Corporation; and U.S. Bank, N.A. as Trustee for Bear Stearns Home Loan Owner Trust 2001-A, were Defendants, in favor of Plaintiff and against the Defendants for the sum of $138,559.07, which judgment and decree, among other things, direct the sale by me of the real property hereinafter described, to satisfy the amount of said judgment, with interest thereon and the costs and expenses of such sale, or so much thereof as the proceeds of said sale will satisfy; and by virtue of a writ issued to me out of the office of the Clerk of said Court, I, Chuck Curry, Sheriff of Flathead County, Montana, or a Deputy on behalf of the Sheriff, will sell the property described in the Judgment to the highest bidder for cash or credit bid at public auction at the lobby of the Justice Center in the City of Kalispell in the County of Flathead, and State of Montana, on the 31st day of January, 2017, at the hour of 10:00 A.M., to satisfy the amount due, with interest thereon, and the costs and expenses of such sale, or so much thereof as the proceeds of such sale will satisfy. The property to be sold is situated in the County of Flathead, and State of Montana, and described as follows: ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE IN THE COUNTY OF FLATHEAD AND STATE OF MONTANA, KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT 487 OF HAPPY VALLEY HOMESITES, ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF ON FILE AND OF RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK AND RECORDER OF FLATHEAD COUNTY, MONTANA. Physical location: 468 Bear Trail, Whitefish, MT 59937. Dated this 5th day of January, 2017. FLATHEAD COUNTY SHERIFF CHUCK CURRY By: Civil Bureau Civil Bureau MACKOFF KELLOGG LAW FIRM 38 Second Ave E Dickinson ND 58601 Attorney for the Plaintiff January 10, 17, 24, 2017 MNAXLP
Why we need Electoral College
The country is abuzz with demands that the U.S. abolish the Electoral College. Does anybody making these demands understand that the United States was purposely founded as a republic and not as a democracy? What is the difference between the two, and why?
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•Zinke — Leader or lapdog?
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As another year fades away and a new one comes into view, many of us stand at the divide and reflect on our blessings (or not) of the old and our hope for the blessings to come in the new.
Braves blank Hellgate
Payton Hume and Tilynne Vasquez had more competition with teammates during their warm-up session than in their matches Tuesday evening in a Class AA wrestling dual with Missoula Hellgate at Flathead High School.
Glacier rolls Frenchtown
FRENCHTOWN — Jaxen Hashley had 21 points and 17 rebounds to lead Glacier to a 55-33 nonconfrence rout of Frenchtown on Tuesday.
Monday, January 9
Boarding house wins approval in Whitefish
City wants more zoning flexibility for multifamily housing
Glacier speech and debate compete at BlackSnake Invitational in Idaho
Glacier High School Speech and Debate switched gears up this year and competed at the BlackSnake Invitational at Idaho State University over the weekend.
In plea deal, C. Falls woman agrees to 10 year prison sentence for embezzlement scheme
A Columbia Falls woman accused of embezzlement and bilking people in a Ponzi scheme has reached a plea deal with state prosecutors that includes a 10-year prison sentence.
Smoking stove prompts call to police
Someone told Kalispell Police they were cleaning the stove when it started to smoke and said “they needed it checked out.”
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TODay
Application for neo-Nazi march deemed incomplete
The city of Whitefish on Monday received by mail an incomplete application for a special event from The Daily Stormer for a proposed Jan. 16 march on Second Street from Memorial Park to City Hall.
Flathead comes out on top
Flathead Valley speech and debate teams took the top placements at the Corvallis-Hamilton Invitational this weekend.
Man who killed stepmother to be paroled from prison
A man convicted along with his father of bludgeoning and suffocating his stepmother to death in De Borgia on Nov. 28, 1995, has been approved for parole from his 60-year prison sentence.
Local judge sits with Montana Supreme Court
A Flathead District Court judge had the honor of sitting in the place of a justice in the state’s highest court in December.
John Heidler Williams, 84
John Heidler Williams, 84, died Sunday, Dec. 25, 2016, at his home in Bigfork.
Marie Mildred Scudder, 92
Marie Mildred Scudder passed away Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2017, in Kalispell.
It's official: Record Glacier visitation in 2016
‘Busy, packed and overcrowded’
A year marked by unprecedented crowds has shattered another visitation record in Glacier National Park, where the 2,946,681 visitors to enter the park in 2016 eclipsed the previous year’s all-time high by a staggering 24 percent.
Northwest Montana hit with snow; more cold on the way
The National Weather Service is forecasting this year’s second round of arctic winds to blow through Northwest Montana this week. The negative temperatures are predicted to come on the heels of a snowstorm that dumped between 3 and 6 inches of snow across the Flathead Valley as of Monday morning.
Instructor reflects on life lessons
Four women and one man gathered on the dance floor in front of their instructor, a tall man dressed black, from his collared shirt to his dance shoes.
Kalispell City Council to work on apartment designs
During the Kalispell City Council work session tonight, the council will re-examine the conditional use permit request from Lofts at Ashley, LLC to build a 55-unit apartment complex.
2017 Glacier entrance pass now available
Glacier National Park announced Wednesday that the 2017 Glacier National Park annual entrance pass, featuring a photo of Glacier’s first Blackfeet park ranger, is now available.
Flathead Lake water level drawn down
After plummeting more than 3 feet last month, the surface of Flathead Lake has finally reached its typical elevation for the season.
Legals January 9, 2017
No. 24178 NOTICE FOR PUBLIC COMMENT REQUEST FOR FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT PERMIT The Flathead County Floodplain Administrator has received the following Floodplain Development Permit application: 1. FDP-16-27 A request by KC Yahvah of Montana Department of Transportation to replace the bridge over the South Fork of the Flathead River and reconstruct 1.1 miles of road on U.S. Highway 2. There is currently an existing bridge that will remain in place throughout construction, the new bridge will be located just downstream from the existing bridge. The old bridge will be removed with the issuance of this floodplain development permit. The project will occur on Tract 1AB, 1ABB in Section 1, all of Section 12 Ex N2NW in Township 30 North, Range 19 West and USA Land and Highway 2 in Section 7, Township 30 North, and Range 19 West P.M.M., Flathead County, Montana. The complete application may be viewed at our office. Written or oral comments concerning the above requests should be directed to the Floodplain Administrator at the Flathead County Planning & Zoning Office, Earl Bennett Building, 1035 First Avenue West, Kalispell, Montana 59901, (406) 751-8200. Comments should be received by 5:00 PM on Friday, January 27, 2017. /s/ Mark Mussman Mark Mussman, CFM® Planning Director Flathead County Planning & Zoning January 9, 2017 MNAXLP
Sunday, January 8
Bigfork retreat center proposal postponed
An application to create a camp and retreat center near Bigfork has been postponed until the property owners can work out concerns over a road easement and septic-system requirements.
Teen admits to stealing truck, leading police on chase
A Kalispell man admitted Thursday to stealing a railroad maintenance truck and leading police on a high-speed chase in the Coram area in December.
Police departments offer opportunities to meet with officers
The new year is getting kicked off with plenty of opportunities to interact with local law enforcement as two of the valley’s police departments host open meetings with the public.
Kalispell annexes future elementary school site
The Kalispell City Council last Tuesday took the first steps toward building a new school in south Kalispell.
Woman who injured 7 in drunken crash now faces new charges
A probation violation hearing was delayed Thursday for a Kalispell woman who injured seven people in a drunk-driving crash in Evergreen in 2009.
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TODay
Police collect misplaced backpack
An employee of a Second Avenue East business called the Kalispell Police Department to report a backpack had been left at the location. The caller said there was nothing particularly suspicious about the bag, but it did reportedly contain a knife and the caller wanted it picked up.
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•Trump is off to promising start
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Welcome to a new year and a new legislative session. With our eyes toward Montana’s future, we are hopeful that the next 90 days will bring badly needed changes. We must put our state back on a path toward economic stability that creates greater opportunities for all Montanans.
Trump not suited for the subtleties of foreign policy
It is not domestic but rather foreign policy, which has consumed the days and nights of most American presidents. Since World War II, our leaders have been watchmen on freedom’s wall and although most of those presidents were brilliant, experienced and surrounded by well-seasoned advisers they discovered, each in turn, the great difficulty of guiding our international affairs.
Highway strip no longer rural countryside
The U.S. 93 corridor south of Whitefish was rural countryside for the most part in 1993 when the Blanchard Lake Zoning District was put in place, governing land uses for the area that includes the highway strip.
Egan Slough vote is warning to all in Flathead
It was profoundly disappointing to read the report of the Nov. 21 decision by our Flathead County commissioners to reject the citizen-proposed expansion of the Egan Slough Conservation District, despite the overwhelming support of district residents and concerned Flathead Valley citizens.
Find middle ground and invest in infrastructure
A great nation’s strength, like that of a great building, is built upon a solid foundation. The larger the nation or building, the more substantial the required foundation. Besides the human, spiritual, philosophical and intellectual foundation there must be a strong infrastructural foundation. A great nation must have good roads, streets and highways, safe and pure water delivery systems as well as waste water treatment that prevents pollution of water supplies. It needs a modern air transportation system including airports; good passenger and freight rail service, as well as good ports and shipping infrastructure. A solid electrical power grid and modern pipelines are essential. These and many more infrastructural items support a modern nation. Without them we are weak.
Democratic legislators talk about what unites us in 2017
Montana has made progress in recent years, but we need to continue to work hard this legislative session to shore up our economy and create good-paying jobs across our state.
Dennison studied, then made, history
The University of Montana and the Flathead Valley are mourning the loss of George Dennison last week, a man who is widely regarded as one of the most impactful educators in the state’s history. Dennison had been battling cancer and passed away Tuesday morning in Missoula.
Proposal opens door to commercial growth on U.S. 93 South
The future of Whitefish’s southern entrance hangs in the balance as Flathead County considers a zoning proposal to allow more commercial development along the U.S. 93 highway corridor.
A deep and abiding respect for winter
As I filled up my gas tank earlier this week before the deep freeze descended upon the Flathead, Dad’s voice was drumming in my head.
Saturday, January 7
No headline
Daily Inter Lake photographers share their best images from 2016.
911 funding reform up for consideration
With 911 centers throughout Montana struggling to keep pace with the increasingly pervasive use of wireless technology, a sweeping measure to reform the state’s program for supporting those local entities will get its first committee hearing this week.
Local hospitals brace for repeal
The same week lawmakers in Washington took the first step to dismantle Obamacare, Montana health-care workers gathered at Kalispell Regional Medical Center to outline what the law’s disappearance could mean for health agencies and patients.
Brewery-style winery coming to Evergreen location
As breweries continue their burgeoning ascension of popularity across Montana, one Flathead business is taking wine into the same model.
Man appeals sentence for killing three grizzlies
In March the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals will consider the appeal of a man convicted of killing three grizzly bears that had been killing his chickens in the Ferndale area in May 2014.
Governor names new fish and wildlife, agriculture directors
HELENA (AP) — Montana Gov. Steve Bullock filled several key cabinet and adviser positions on Friday, including appointments to the state’s departments of agriculture and fish and wildlife.
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Today
Message of unity spread at 'Love Not Hate' block party
WHITEFISH — Hundreds of hardy souls braved frigid temperatures to share a message of togetherness across racial, gender and religious lines at the Love Not Hate block party near Depot Park Saturday morning.
Quick action saves home from fire
Creston Volunteer Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief Bill Tidwell said team effort kept embers in an attic from completely catching a house on fire Friday night.
Roy Milton 'Pat' DeLong, 94
Roy Milton “Pat” DeLong, 94, passed away on Dec. 28, 2016, surrounded by his family at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Kennedy Grace Ruff, 6 months
Kennedy Grace Ruff, 6 months, was born in Portland, Oregon, on June 29, 2016, to Shawn and Jyndia Ruff, who is formerly of Kalispell. She arrived in her own perfect timing- nearly two weeks late (a characteristic she received from her mommy).
James Cherington Price, 28
On Dec. 23, 2016, James lost his long and difficult battle against addiction.
Violet J. (Hone) Rask, 91
Violet J. Rask passed away Dec. 19, 2016, from complications after a fall and breaking her hip.
Cecilia Lyons, 49
Age 49, Our beautiful Mommy, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Dec. 30, 2016.
Clarence Gembala, 86
Clarence Gembala passed away peacefully at his home on Jan. 4, 2017.
Herman 'Hal' Loff, 67
Herman “Hal” Loff, 67, passed away on Dec. 31, 2016, at his home in Coram.
Elda 'Ferne' (Downes) Hill, 87
Elda “Ferne” (Downes) Hill, 87, passed away peacefully surround by loving family on Friday, Dec. 30, 2016.
Myra Louise (Shaw) Birky, 54
Myra Louise (Shaw) Birky, 54, passed away Jan. 3, 2017.
Legals January 7, 2017
No. 24169 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at 2pm, Batavia Self Storage 190 Batavia Ln will have a live auction to the highest bidder on abandoned storage units owing delinquent storage rent. The goods to be sold are described as household goods. The terms of the sale will be cash, money order, certified check. Units are reserved subject to redemption by owner prior to sale.All Sales final. Units 6, 17, 28, 35, 54, 58, 95, 99, 122, 136, 209, 221, 300, 340, 346, 348, 359, 398, 416, 437, 451, 459, YD029 January 4, 7, 14, 21, 2017 MNAXLP
Music school has big plans for new building
North Valley Music School is buying the city of Whitefish’s Depot Park office building for $20, with plans of increasing space and programming for the music program that has been in Whitefish for 20 years.
Columbia Falls third at W. Montana Duals
RONAN — Frenchtown edged Ronan in the championship dual while Columbia Falls rolled over Corvallis in the third-place match on Saturday at the Western Montana Duals.
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Eureka’s Graves
Four Polson wrestlers place at LeProwse
BOZEMAN — Bridger Wenzel finished fourth for Polson at the Tom LeProwse Invitational wrestling tournament on Saturday.
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CHENEY, Wash. (AP) — Walter Wright scored 19 points, Michael Oguine hit 4 of 5 from 3-point range and finished with 17 points and Montana closed the game on a 7-0 run to beat Eastern Washington 65-59 on Saturday.
Babcock, Gibson, Dye earn firsts at swim meet
Colton Babcock of Columbia Falls was a double winner at the Kalispell Invitational swim meet on Saturday at The Summit.
Triplett bucked in second round
The Daily Inter Lake
Wolfpack wears out Post Falls
The Daily Inter Lake
Flathead finishes 2nd at PNW Classic
Flathead 2nd at PNW Classic
Osweiler, Texans dump Raiders
HOUSTON (AP) — Brock Osweiler redeemed himself after last month’s benching.
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Fake news, or: 'The Art of the Fail'
In the old days, philosophers used to meditate about how many angels could fit on the head of a pin. These days, deep thinkers want to know how much fake news CNN can squeeze into an hour.
Friday, January 6
Triplett third after opener in NY
NEW YORK — Columbia Falls bull rider Matt Triplett continued his strong start to the 2017 season with an 87-point ride on the first day of competition at the Professional Bull Riders Buck Off at the Garden on Friday night at Madison Square Garden.
Kalispell council tables project permit over apartment design
The city of Kalispell is reflecting the cautiousness brought by south-side neighborhood residents in permitting a new 55-unit apartment complex that will alter the neighborhood’s character.
Felon admits to escaping from officer's vehicle
A man admitted on Thursday to escaping out of the window of an unsecured probation and parole office vehicle in October.
Musicians selected to elite group
Eleven talented and hard-working student musicians from around the area have been selected to perform in one of the National Association for Music Education All-Northwest honor groups.
Kalispell braces for another round of snow
A snowstorm is expected to bring significant accumulation to Northwest Montana beginning on Sunday, according to forecasters at the National Weather Service office in Missoula.
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TODay
Why budget tops Montana Legislature's agenda
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The state budget has emerged as a top issue in the 2017 legislative session, with Republican leaders saying money is so tight that the state can’t afford new programs. Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock paints a less dire picture, and he and GOP majority lawmakers are expected to spend much of the session wrangling over spending cuts and new sources of revenue to balance the next two-year budget and leave cash in the bank.
Eureka man convicted in road rage incident
A Eureka man was convicted on Thursday in a case of alleged road rage that took place on Memorial Day in Kalispell.
Multiple people shot at Ft. Lauderdale airport
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Authorities say a lone shooter opened fire at the Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, international airport Friday, killing “multiple” people before he was taken into custody. The airport suspended operations as law enforcement authorities rushed to the scene and emergency medical workers treated at least one bleeding victim on the tarmac.
Mourning the loss of a local hero
Ben Parsons, 36, a well-known local athlete and Whitefish firefighter and paramedic, was killed in an avalanche Thursday afternoon while backcountry skiing on Stanton Mountain in Glacier National Park.
Legals January 6, 2017
No. 24167 AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE & MOVING LLC NOTICE OF AUCTION BY PUBLICATION On JANUARY 21, 2017 at 10AM AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE & MOVING LLC, pursuant to MCA 70-6-420, will auction to the highest bidder by silent written bid the contents of abandoned storage units owing delinquent storage rent for the following unit numbers: 10 and 16. The units contain household goods, furniture, tools, electronic equipment, sporting goods, water craft and vehicles. These units may be viewed by appointment at AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE AT 48573 US HWY 93 N POLSON, MT 59901 during the day of the sale from 9 AM to 10AM. Written sealed bids may be submitted to AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE at that time. Buyer's bid will be for the entirety of the contents of each unit. Only cash, cashiers checks and money orders accepted for payment NO CHECKS. AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE reserves the right to refuse any bid or to cancel or postpone the auction for all or part of the units scheduled for sale and also to bid on the units on behalf of AALL ABOUT SELF STORAGE. December 30, and January 6, 12, 19, 2016 MNAXLP
Whitefish slips by Flathead in OT
Whitefish outscored Flathead 9-6 in overtime to edge a 49-46 victory on Friday in a nonconference boys basketball game at Flathead High School.
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SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. — Flathead earned six pins in the opening round of the Pacific Northwest Classic wrestling tournament on Friday at University High School, moving into a tie for third place at the two-day event.
Western Duals Wrestling MatCats, Pirates, Chiefs, Braves, Wolfpack in title bracket
RONAN — Columbia Falls, Polson, Ronan, Flathead JV and Glacier JV have qualified for today’s champion bracket of the Western Montana Duals.
Polson's Wenzel in semis at LeProwse wrestling tourney
BOZEMAN — Polson’s Bridger Wenzel has pinned his way into today’s semifinal round of the Tom LeProwse Invitational wrestling tournament.
Thursday, January 5
No headline
•Whitefish mayor sees community doing right thing
Don't mess with Founders' plan for Electoral College
Here we go again. When losers of an election do not get their candidate for president, even though their choice received the majority of votes nationwide, they want to concoct ways to subvert the Constitution. They want to get rid of the Electoral College.
Road rage incident allegedly ends in foot injury
Kalispell Police took a report from Four Mile Drive and Stillwater Road, where someone reported that another driver had run over his foot with a vehicle. The man reported that he had seen another vehicle driving recklessly on Four Mile Drive, attempting to pass in an unsafe manner. The man reported that he stopped his vehicle diagonally across the road and the other driver got out and started yelling. The other person then allegedly got back into the vehicle and tried to drive around the man. The other driver allegedly ran over the man’s foot. Both parties then pulled off the roadway and waited for police.
Nancy Dougherty Best, 85
Nancy Louise Dougherty was born in Groffdale, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, on May 18, 1931, as the first child of Frank and Kathyrn Ebersol Dougherty. Frank had an automotive repair shop in Lancaster. He later switched to industrial engineering design and obtained a few patents. He had grown up in Seattle and Alaska. Kathyrn was a seamstress who sewed some of the historical costumes for the Lancaster mansion of James Buchanan, the last president before Lincoln. Kathyrn had old roots in Lancaster County, with Nancy’s great-grandmother having heard the cannons of Gettysburg from many miles away. Nancy had a younger brother, Terry, who was an Air Force pilot and served in Vietnam.
Man sent to prison for robbing woman at knifepoint
A Columbia Falls man is headed to prison for robbing a woman at knifepoint in the parking lot of Smith’s grocery store on March 28, 2014.
Art exhibit raises awareness of human trafficking
Soroptimist International of Whitefish, in conjunction with the office of Attorney General Tim Fox, is taking a unique art exhibit on a four-city tour of Montana to raise awareness of human trafficking.
FWP found to have violated its hiring process
BILLINGS (AP) — The state Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks violated its hiring rules in passing over Warden Sgt. Dave Loewen when he applied for three different promotions within the agency, the Board of Personnel Appeals found.
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TODAY
Chimney fire overwhelms Whitefish Stage home
Pieces of twisted metal and what appeared to be siding was virtually all that remained Wednesday afternoon as steam rose up from the foundation of a North Pinnacle Road house destroyed by fire Tuesday night.
Application for neo-Nazi march still not filed
Although The Daily Stormer neo-Nazi website is touting a planned march in Whitefish on Jan. 16, the city of Whitefish has not received an application for a special event on that date, Whitefish City Manager Chuck Stearns confirmed Thursday afternoon.
Backcountry skier killed in Glacier avalanche
A 36-year-old Kalispell man was killed in an avalanche Thursday afternoon while backcountry skiing on Stanton Mountain in Glacier National Park.
Agencies volunteer to return $5.5M to help state budget
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana government agencies volunteered Thursday to return a combined $5.5 million that had been budgeted to them this year, which is about $15 million short of what Republican legislative finance leaders had been seeking to help the state's bottom line.
Another water main breaks in Kalispell
A second water main in a west Kalispell neighborhood snapped due to cold Wednesday weather.
Grenade-toting meth dealers sentenced to federal prison
A Hungry Horse couple was sentenced last month after a federal raid on their home found more than a pound of methamphetamine, multiple weapons and even a 37 mm grenade launcher with explosive grenades.
Zinke votes with House GOP on land transfer measure
Montana Rep. Ryan Zinke voted with other Republicans in the U.S. House on Tuesday to approve a measure widely viewed as a precursor to transferring federal public lands to the states.
Ferndale family loses home after Monday fire rekindles
A Ferndale family’s home was destroyed in a fire that ignited Monday night and rekindled Tuesday morning.
Wednesday blaze destroys Kalispell mobile home
A Kalispell mobile home was destroyed by fire shortly before midnight on Wednesday, leaving a woman homeless.
Legals January 5, 2017
No. 24138 NOTICE OF CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT WITH PPL MONTANA, LLC AND THE MATTSON PLAINTIFF CLASS OF PROPERTY OWNERS ON THE SHORELINE OF FLATHEAD LAKE AND THE BANK OF FLATHEAD RIVER A group of landowners on Flathead Lake and a portion of the Flathead River located in Flathead County filed a class action lawsuit in the Montana Eleventh Judicial District Court, Kalispell, Montana on November 9, 1999 against Montana Power Company ("MPC") and PPL Montana, LLC ("PPLM"). The landowners claimed the power companies' operation of the Kerr Dam caused damages to the landowners' property. The lawsuit is captioned Mattson, et al. v. Montana Power Co., et al., No. DV-99-548A. The Court certified the class which includes the following group of landowners: All persons and entities (other than the United States, the defendants, and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation, Montana) that have since November 9, 1991 to December 1, 2006, owned real property either: i) with frontage on the shoreline of Flathead Lake in Flathead County or Lake County, Montana, or ii) which contains a bank of the Flathead River located in Flathead County, Montana, south of the point at which Lower Valley Road (east of U.S. Highway 93) intersects with the Flathead River, or both. This notice is to advise the class that a hearing will be held on March 9, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. at the Montana Eleventh Judicial District Court for Flathead County, 920 South Main, Kalispell, Montana, 59901. The purpose of the hearing is to determine whether the Court should grant approval of the Amended Stipulation of Settlement and General Release between PPLM and the class as fair, reasonable and adequate, whether the application for award of attorney's fees and reimbursement for expenses should be approved, and whether the case should be dismissed with prejudice. A class settlement with MPC and its insurer National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, PA was previously approved by the Court on August 19, 2015. A Supplemental Notice of Class Action Settlement with PPLM describes a proposed plan of distribution and the rights of class members to file a Proof of Claim and Release ("Claim Form") to receive proceeds from the Settlement Fund from this settlement with PPLM and the earlier settlement with MPC. Claim Forms must be postmarked by May 8, 2017. If you have not received the Supplemental Notice in the mail, which describes in detail this settlement and your rights thereunder, you may request a copy by writing to the Law Offices of Michael M. Mulder at 1603 Orrington Avenue, Suite 600, Evanston, Illinois 60201, or sending an email to mmmulder@mmulderlaw.com. All members of the class will be bound by the Court's judgment. Please do not contact the Court, because its personnel cannot discuss the case with you. December 22, 28, and January 5, 2016 MNAXLP
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THURSDAY, JAN. 5
Krueger takes commission reins as chairman
Flathead County Commissioner Gary Krueger will serve as chairman of the commission for the coming year, the commissioners decided Tuesday. Pam Holmquist had chaired the commission for the past three years.
Nothing wrong with relaxing
There are a lot of things about the day-to-day conversation of sports media and the athletes they cover that bother me as a sane, rational individual.
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Finding Spanky’s and Gus isn’t easy.
Braves powering path to Metra
The pre-holiday portion of the mat schedule is all about one thing.
Polson sweeps Stevi
POLSON —The Polson boys made a run at the end of the first quarter to pull away from Stevensville in a 58-44 nonconference basketball victory on Thursday night.
Wednesday, January 4
Montana State Parks sets visitation record
Montana State Parks set a fourth consecutive visitation record in 2016, with Flathead Lake State Park retaining the No. 2 spot after 313,033 people visited its six park sites last year.
Tester meets with Trump's pick for Homeland Security secretary
National security was the center of discussion Wednesday when U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., met with retired Marine Gen. John Kelly, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Tester said he requested the meeting with Kelly to ensure Montana’s security needs are in mind under the incoming administration.
Quiet Waters proposal receives loud rebuke
The first of five scheduled hearings to discuss a slew of proposed motorized-watercraft restrictions throughout Montana drew strong condemnation from dozens of Kalispell-area residents Tuesday night.
Flathead building permits surpass 2015 mark
Permits filed with Flathead cities and the county in 2016 are pointing to future growth in the residential, commercial and health care sectors, with building permits and zone-change requests booming over 2015’s mark in some areas.
Flathead musician Rob Quist seeks to fill Rep. Zinke's seat
Rob Quist, a Cut Bank native and longtime Flathead Valley performer, will seek the Democratic nomination in the potential upcoming special election to replace Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont.
No headline
Today
Business's safe emptied after suspicious fire
A long-time Polson business is in ruins after it was robbed and lit on fire early Thursday morning.
Bigfork High School shows off new addition
Staff are ready to unveil a portion of Bigfork High School’s new addition as crews finish construction of new locker rooms and a band room.
Osweiler's second chance comes in playoffs
HOUSTON (AP) — Brock Osweiler is getting a second chance to start for the Houston Texans.
Lost skier hoisted from icy creek
A skier who got lost after venturing beyond the boundaries at Whitefish Mountain Resort on Tuesday is OK after being hoisted to safety by the Two Bear Air rescue helicopter.
Legals January 4, 2017
No. 24169 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Saturday, January 21, 2017 at 2pm, Batavia Self Storage 190 Batavia Ln will have a live auction to the highest bidder on abandoned storage units owing delinquent storage rent. The goods to be sold are described as household goods. The terms of the sale will be cash, money order, certified check. Units are reserved subject to redemption by owner prior to sale.All Sales final. Units 6, 17, 28, 35, 54, 58, 95, 99, 122, 136, 209, 221, 300, 340, 346, 348, 359, 398, 416, 437, 451, 459, YD029 January 4, 7, 14, 21, 2017 MNAXLP
Tuesday, January 3
Influenza on the rise in Flathead
Local physicians have confirmed influenza is back in the valley and the number of cases of people infected with this season’s viral infection is growing, according to the Flathead City-County Health Department.
Cecilia Lyons, 49
Age 49, Our beautiful Mommy, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Dec. 30, 2016.
No headline
Maddox Madel, daughter of Daniel Madel and Whitney Trainer, was born Aug. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Wayne Arthur Hegdahl, 71
Wayne Arthur Hegdahl, 71 years of age, died Dec. 26, 2016, at the Harborview Medical Center in Seattle from a pulmonary embolism after suffering from a brain aneurysm.
No headline
TODay
Snowy December boosts mountain snowpack
Record-breaking rain through the fall in Northwest Montana provided a welcome boost to the region’s long-term water supplies, while a snowy December has pushed mountain snowpack close to normal levels throughout the Northern Rockies.
Libby man who killed two on mushroom hunting trip to be paroled
A Libby man has been approved to be paroled from a prison sentence handed down after he killed two people during a drunken mushroom hunting trip in the Yaak area in 1992.
Montana wildlife agency appeals ruling it broke ethics laws
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana's fish and wildlife agency is appealing a ruling that it violated the state's ethics laws by allowing equipment it owns to be used to advocate against a ballot initiative.
UM mourns death of longest-serving president
Former University of Montana President George Dennison died Tuesday from complications of non-Hodgkins lymphoma, according to UM.
Whitefish ski resort records busiest day ever
Whitefish Mountain Resort last weekend recorded its busiest day ever on the slopes.
Some residents without water after line bursts
Water was shut off to some Kalispell residents Tuesday after a water line broke on the west side of town.
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TODay
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A serial child rapist who asked a Flathead District Court judge to send him to prison for 100 years in April has since changed his mind and has asked the Montana Supreme Court to again overturn his conviction for raping an 11-year-old girl in March 2007 at her father’s home.
Two survive plane crash near Paradise
Two men walked away from an airplane crash near Paradise on Tuesday morning.
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A Kalispell teenager is facing a felony charge after allegedly attacking a police officer who was responding to a call for service.
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When Ray Hoon talks about living 100 years in the West, he likes to mention “that one time” he felt the weight of a black bear’s paw swipe across his back during a shift in Glacier National Park.
Serious shortage of emergency responders impacts the Flathead
Hardworking emergency responders say they are able to quickly get to the scenes of accidents and fires in Flathead County most of the time, but it is getting more difficult to provide adequate coverage because of an increasing shortage of volunteers that is part of a national trend.
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Herbert Blakeman, 88
Herbert Blakeman, 88, of Hot Springs, died Dec. 31, 2016.
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I want to preface this letter by saying that I do not hate anyone, but who do I love?
Filing begins for area school-board elections
School elections are coming in May, but now is the time for people interested in serving on a school board to file paperwork.
The Latest: Republicans outline plan for 'sagging' economy
HELENA (AP) — The Latest on the opening of the Montana legislative session:
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As one of the individuals interested in replacing Congressman Zinke, I feel obligated to respond to the Republican State Party’s action to require a fee of $1,740 in order to run in the special election.
Speak up about Quiet Waters Initiative tonight
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks will hold a hearing tonight on a set of regulations to enact limits on motorized watercraft throughout Montana.
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In a rapidly changing world, I have once again witnessed the essence of Whitefish. We are a close-knit community that rolls up its sleeves, gets things done, and takes care of each other. We may not always agree on issues, but we respect one another.
Lawrence J. Bucher, 79
Lawrence J. Bucher, 79, passed away on Dec. 25, 2016, in Newport, Washington.
Brock is back for Texans
HOUSTON (AP) — Brock Osweiler will start at quarterback for the Houston Texans on Saturday in their wild-card game against the Oakland Raiders.
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Logger boys, girls sweep Lions on hardwood
EUREKA — Ryggs Johnston tallied 21 points and Libby held Eureka to single-digit scoring in all four quarters en route to a 60-20 District 7B boys basketball victory on Tuesday evening.
Eureka downs Greenchain
EUREKA — Kahden Bakkila (120), Jonathan Schmidt (138), Garrett Graves (182) and Joe Fehr (205) all won by pin as Eureka rolled past Libby 50-18 in a Class B wrestling dual on Tuesday evening.
Monday, January 2
Annual fishing derby draws big crowd of small fry
The 45th annual Lions Club Smith Lake Ice Fishing Derby attracted hundreds of anglers on New Year’s Eve despite the chilly winter weather.
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Flathead County’s first baby of the new year arrived at 1:39 a.m. New Year’s Day. Madelyn Mae Baiar was born to Emily and Michael Baiar of Columbia Falls. She weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces. The Baiars own Halfmoon Rifle and Marine in Columbia Falls. Paternal grandparents are Jeff and Jody Baiar. Maternal grandparents are Jeff and Angie Fleming.
As Montana Legislature starts its 65th session, budget battle looms
HELENA (AP) — Just before the Montana Legislature gaveled in its 2017 session Monday, Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock looked to ease the tension building over a looming budget battle by calling on the two parties to work together for the state’s best interests.
Deer with three feet gets around OK
Whitefish Police received a report of a deer with a missing foot lying beneath a tree in town. The caller thought the deer was suffering and would have to be dispatched, but officers found the deer was able to walk.
Texans undecided on QB for playoffs
HOUSTON (AP) — Coach Bill O’Brien said Monday he doesn’t know who will start at quarterback for the Houston Texans in their wild-card playoff game against the Oakland Raiders on Saturday.
Dig it! Fifth-snowiest December since 1899
Kalispell received more than twice its typical snowfall last month, recording its fifth-highest December total since record-keeping began in 1899.
New program provides grants to homebuyers
The Montana and Idaho Community Development Corporation, an economic development organization focused on boosting small and growing businesses, has awarded a Flathead Valley couple with the first down payment on their new home.
New Year's Eve stays under control
The new year got off to a relatively quiet start in 2017, possibly due to the cold and snow. There were the usual fireworks complaints, a few early-morning parties, a number of hit-and-run accidents and more than a few drunken pedestrians in Whitefish.
Legals January 2, 2017
No. 24164 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE TO BE SOLD FOR CASH AT TRUSTEE'S SALE on April 6, 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. 17686, A TRACT OF LAND IN THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 4, TOWNSHIP 29 NORTH, RANGE 20 WEST, P.M.M., FLATHEAD COUNTY, MONTANA. WILLIAM F TREBAS JR, as Grantor, conveyed said real property to First American Title Company of Montana, Inc., A Montana Corporation, as Trustee, to secure an obligation owed to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (MERS) as nominee for Guild Mortgage Company, a California Corporation, as Beneficiary, by Deed of Trust on March 30, 2012, and recorded on April 4, 2012 as Document No. 201200007234. The beneficial interest is currently held by Ally Bank. First American Title Company of Montana, Inc., a Montana Corporation is the Trustee. The beneficiary has declared a default in the terms of said Deed of Trust by failing to make the monthly payments beginning November 1, 2014, 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 12, 2016 is $467,058.79 principal, interest totaling $32,645.49 late charges in the amount of $683.58, escrow advances of $13,477.28, and other fees and expenses advanced of $10,611.99, 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: November 21st 2016 Kaitlin Ann Gotch Assistant Secretary, First American Title Company of Montana, Inc. A Montana Corporation Title Financial Specialty Services PO Box 339 Blackfoot ID 83221 STATE OF Idaho ss. County of Bingham On this 21 day of November, 2016, 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. A Montana Corporation, 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: 9-6-2022 December 26, and January 2, 9, 2016 MNAXLP
Man charged with six new felonies
One of three individuals being prosecuted for vandalizing and burglarizing a Whitefish home in April is now facing six additional felony charges for a string of alleged crimes that stretch from February to August of 2016.
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TODay
Kalispell council Alcohol permit sought for backup hockey site
Montana Pond Hockey Classic organizers are getting ahead of the curve.
New district judge steps up from justice court, says he's ready for challenges ahead
After six years of serving as Flathead County justice of the peace, Dan Wilson was sworn in as Flathead County District Court judge on Friday before colleagues, friends and family, in the courtroom in which he’ll now take part in a more serious and complex division of the criminal justice system.
Sunday, January 1
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•Remain vigilant against neo-Nazis
Looking back, and pressing forward
Often, while roaming the mountains (and I often am ... roaming the mountains!), I’ll see a peak and be magnetically attracted to it, no matter how difficult the approach, as a high point to survey the landscape — where I’ve been, where I’m headed … looking both back and forward to get a perspective on my journey.
An unapologetic defense of un-PC Confederate flag issue
Sandy Perry was stunned — stunned I tell you — in the Nov. 20 Inter Lake at the insensitivty of the children’s parade to honor their friend Zachary Rhoads after his tragic demise by displaying the Confederate flag.
Legislature's focus: Budget logic
Tomorrow, the 65th Montana Legislature will convene in Helena. And while legislators have a full collective plate already, balancing the next two-year state budget will be the centerpiece for much of the 90-day session.
Farewell from a giant Thomas Sowell writes his final column
(EDITOR’S NOTE: The Daily Inter Lake has proudly run Thomas Sowell’s column since Jan. 2, 2010. Today, we mark the transition as Michelle Malkin picks up his mantle.)
Whitefish council mulls boarding house project
A plan to covert the former Whitefish Independent High School building into a boarding house for seasonal hospitality industry workers is the focus of a public hearing at the Whitefish City Council meeting on Tuesday.
Keep pets warm and safe when the mercury drops
With near-record subzero temperatures forecast this week, animal experts in the Flathead Valley advise residents to take extra precautions for their pets. Cats, dogs and larger animals, while more adaptable to the cold, are all at risk of exposure and other health complications.
