Ellington

Judge upholds Montana political spending disclosure rule

A federal judge on Monday upheld an executive order by Montana's governor that requires companies to report political spending if they want to bid on large state contracts.

Trump administration finalizes coal plant pollution rollback

The Trump administration on Monday finalized its weakening of an Obama-era rule aimed at reducing polluted wastewater from coal-burning power plants that has contaminated streams, lakes and underground aquifers.

Columbia Falls man dies after pontoon boat flips near Glacier Rim

A Columbia Falls man died late Saturday afternoon after his fishing pontoon boat flipped while floating on the North Fork of the Flathead River near Glacier Rim.

Website helps match sellers of water rights with buyers

Matching buyers and sellers of water rights as well as firms that can work out the notoriously complex transactions is the goal of a new online platform in the West and in Montana.

Estranged wife steals key, puts noose in tree

Law roundup

At-home workout program isn’t Kalispell cowboy’s first rodeo

Monday profile

Group covers Bigfork student lunch debts

weekly roundup

State police returning to Portland following deadly shooting

State Police will return to Portland to help local authorities after the fatal shooting of a man following clashes between President Donald Trump supporters and counter-protesters that led to an argument between the president and the mayor over who was to blame for the violence.

Letters to the editor Aug. 31

Letters to the editor Aug. 31

Legals for August, 31 2020

Montana sees 1st case of COVID-related inflammatory disease

The first case of a rare COVID-19-related inflammatory disease in Montana has been reported in a child from Teton County, health officials said.

Former sheriff drowns while fishing on Missouri River

A former Pondera County sheriff and Conrad police chief drowned while fishing on the Missouri River, Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter said.

Man dies when pickup truck he was working on rolled over him

A central Montana man was killed when the pickup truck he was working under rolled on top of him.

Man emerges from woods, shoots at Census taker

Law roundup

Local guild helps sustain struggling bee population

Flathead Valley Beekeepers Guild helps sustain struggling bee population

Rock solid: New shop specializes in Yogo sapphires

New C-Falls shop specializes in Yogo sapphires

New rock shop in Columbia Falls specializes in Yogo sapphires

Tensions emerge between BLM protesters, Trump supporters in Whitefish

BLM protesters, Trump supporters clash

Betty Cooke (Fox) Denham, 78

Betty Cooke (Fox) Denham, 78, of Columbus, North Dakota, died Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2020, at Trinity Hospital in Minot, North Dakota, with her daughter at her side.

Anthony Bruno Thomas, 86

Anthony “Tony” B. Thomas, 86, died Aug. 24, 2020.

William Roland Simonsen, 71

William Roland Simonsen, 71, died Aug. 15, 2020, in Kalispell.

Children and cybersecurity: it's time to ramp it up

Get tips about how to beef up cybersecurity for children from the BBB

Ted William Rieke, 77

It is with great sadness the family of Ted William Rieke, 77, announces his passing on Aug. 22, 2020. Ted passed away at home surrounded by his family.

Linnea Ghilardi, 75

Linnea was born on Jan. 30, 1945, in Chicago to William Phillip and Doris Bartelt Phillip. She was raised in the near west village of Riverside, designed by the landscape architect Fredrick Law Olmstad.

Sharon VanNoy Berger, 77

Sharon VanNoy Berger passed away peacefully on Aug. 21, 2020, in the presence of her three children.

Glenn Eugene Wills, 88

Glenn Eugene Wills walked the road to heaven in his cowboy boots on Aug. 24, 2020.

Pauline 'Polly' Nikolaisen, 99

Pauline “Polly” Nikolaisen passed away Aug.21, 2020

Linda Pugh, 68

Linda Pugh, 68, of Whitefish, passed away peacefully in her home on April 20, 2020.

Kenneth George 'Ken' Avison, 75

Kenneth George Avison, “Ken,” of Polson, died on Aug. 26, 2020, due to complications from cancer.

New Somers Fire Hall aims for November opening

Somers Fire Hall nears completion, comes in under budget

Governor Bullock has spoken

Governor Bullock has issued another edict. This time, it’s taking away your right to choose how you vote in the November general election.

Legals for August, 30 2020

Community partnership fosters sustainability, stewardship

The Glacier Conservancy’s mission to preserve and protect Glacier National Park for future generations can only be accomplished through strong community partnerships.

Importance of the Post Office

I love the Post Office as much as I love the Flag that flies over it. In every city or small town in Montana the American flag flies proudly over the buildings that house the oldest public service in America.

Canadian mining project needs additional scrutiny

Canada announced this week that it will further assess the risks of a proposed coal mine in British Columbia that could negatively impact water quality in Northwest Montana.

Coronavirus Relief Fund Advisory Council came together to reinvigorate Montana’s economy

They say, “Don’t always trust what you see on TV,” and in our case, that’s true. Recently, there have been claims that the makeup of the Coronavirus Relief Fund Advisory Council was politically motivated. As members of the Advisory Council, we want to set the record straight.

School + pandemic = high anxiety

As a longtime teacher who has heard every complaint under the sun about how horrible school is, how boring, arbitrary, irrelevant and unfair, I find myself somewhat taken aback by the fierce pressure to return to regular classroom instruction.

Pulling the plug on satellite TV

Lynnette column

Virus deaths linked to Whitefish long-term care facility

Four recent COVID-19-related deaths in Flathead County have been tied to Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center

Whitefish's annual Oktoberfest canceled

Annual Oktoberfest canceled

Three arrested on weapons charges

Kalispell Police arrest three teens on weapons charges

Hospitality still the hallmark at Flathead Lake Lodge

Iconic resort celebrates 75th anniversary

Flathead Lake Lodge

Boyfriend adds fuel to the fire during fight

law roundup

GPIA: Airport traffic gradually recovering—for now

Glacier Park International Airport passenger numbers held fairly well over the summer

Local schools welcome students back to class

Opening schools during the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant changes in regard to health and safety.

Legals for August, 29 2020

Wildkats breeze to win with newcomers, veterans

Five players made their first career starts for the Columbia Falls Wildkats on Friday in a 4-2 win over the Corvallis Blue Devils in the Class A soccer season opener at Columbia Falls High School.

Columbia Falls rallies past Polson

Mason Peters threw for four touchdowns Friday, three in a blistering second half that rallied the host Wildcats past Polson 48-28 in a Northwestern A football battle.

PHOTOS: Wildcats take down Polson, 48-28

Photos as the Columbia Falls Wildcats defeat the Polson Pirates 48-28 in Class A high school football at Satterthwaite Memorial Field in Columbia Falls on Friday, Aug. 28.

Hot Springs man arrested in arson fire

A Hot Springs man was arrested and charged with felony negligent arson Wednesday afternoon in Lake County.

Libby, Whitefish get football rolling in Valley

Friday Night Lights are back in the Flathead Valley and Northwest Montana, though a limited number of fans can watch the games in Libby and Columbia Falls and Thompson Falls.

Pack shuts out Braves in season opener

Braden Nitschelm and Sullivan Coggins each scored two goals as the Glacier Wolfpack blanked the Flathead Braves 6-0 in the Class AA soccer season opener for both teams at Legends Stadium on Thursday.

Four additional COVID-19 deaths linked to local long-term care facility

Four more Covid-19 deaths

Groups seek curb on coal, oil extraction in Montana, Wyoming

Conservation groups alleged Thursday that the Trump administration ignored a court order to consider reductions to coal, oil and natural gas extraction to combat climate change and air pollution.

Pauline 'Polly' Nikolaisen, 99

0828 Nikolaisen OBIT PIX 854 words

PHOTOS: Glacier sweeps Flathead in crosstown soccer

Photos from crosstown soccer as Glacier and Flathead square off for their first matchup of the season.

Marion O’Connell, 79

0828 O'Connell OBIT PIX 481 words

Legals for August, 28 2020

Canada to assess risks of Elk Valley mining project

The Canadian Federal Government recently announced it will perform a separate environmental review of a proposed coal mine expansion

Decision expected on permit for asphalt plant

On Tuesday, the Flathead County Board of Adjustment is expected to make a final decision on whether to approve a modification to an existing conditional-use permit that would allow the owners of a controversial gravel pit in West Valley to manufacture asphalt and concrete as well.

Bar won’t squeal about stolen metal pig

A man in Columbia Falls told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office he was missing a large metal pig.

Schools welcome students back to class

Back to school 2020

Neta Stilkey

Neta Stilkey passed away Aug. 25, 2020.

Suspected arsonist arrested in Pablo

A Pablo man suspected of setting a fire in a wooded area near the old Plum Creek Mill was arrested Monday.

Cold case units focus on missing, murdered Indigenous women

The federal government has opened a cold case office in Anchorage, Alaska, to focus on missing Alaska Native and American Indian women

Arts in the Park celebrates its golden anniversary

In 1970, Paul McCartney announced the Beatles were breaking up, Casey Kasem hosted the first American Top 40 nationally syndicated radio program and the first Earth Day was celebrated. It was the era of bell bottoms, big hair and disco.

Fall hunts require ‘bear aware’ vigilence

Fall is in the air. As I write this column on Sunday morning, it is 39 degrees at my cabin. Not exactly a mid-summer morning temperature.

Jennifer Lee Waite, 47

Jennifer Lee Waite passed away Aug. 24, 2020, at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

The burglar alarm is not pet-proof

It’s entirely possible a boxer named “Boomer,” a French bulldog named “Gus” and a white, short-haired cat named “Stinky” set off an alarm in Columbia Falls.

Letters to the editor Aug. 27

Montana Wounded Warriors would like to thank the board members of the Flathead Valley Clay Target Club for this years 10th annual benefit shoot. The club has been long time supporters of Montana’s wounded vets and this year even in the middle of the Covid mess was no exception. The trap club literally stuck to their guns and held the shoot not knowing if anyone would attend. Thankfully there was a record turnout and it was the biggest year yet in the total raised at over $5,000.

Tool gauges COVID capacity for local testing, monitoring

In an effort to provide further insight into the valley’s COVID-19 cases, the Flathead City-County Health Department recently released an online community indicator dashboard that displays whether certain aspects of the local testing, monitoring and health-care system are at, or nearing, capacity.

Man gets probation in Whitefish blackmail scheme

A California man who admitted to blackmailing a Whitefish businessman was sentenced Tuesday to five years of probation.

Legals for August, 27 2020

Glacier, Flathead soccer kick off season at Legends

Fall prep sports are gearing up, finally, after what was a very long offseason.

Braves, Wolfpack football teams rounding into shape

The familiar sounds of fall were around Legends Stadium and Glacier High School Wednesday, where both of Kalispell’s Class AA football teams kept going through the paces ahead of the 2021 season.

Column: Appreciative Vikings ‘Get to do this’

The thought was that, even though nothing is written in stone this fall, whatever opportunity an athlete gets during this pandemic should be appreciated.

Bundy arrested at Idaho Statehouse for second time in 2 days

Anti-government activist Ammon Bundy has been arrested for the second time in two days at the Idaho Statehouse

Pilot killed in Oregon wildfire was ex-Montana State player

Authorities say a Montana man who died when the helicopter he was piloting crashed while fighting an Oregon wildfire was a former basketball player at Montana State University

Growing wildfire keeps road closed outside Old Faithful

A wildfire that has closed a road near Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park continues to grow

FVCC Foundation data possibly hacked

A technology company used by Flathead Valley Community College was recently hacked, college officials announced on Wednesday.

Flathead surpasses 500 total COVID cases

Flathead County this week surpassed 500 cumulative cases of COVID-19 since Montana’s outbreak began in March, and as of Wednesday, state and local data showed 119 of those cases are currently active.

Plains man in need of kidney transplant finds local donor

When properly blended, faith, hope and charity can come together create a field of positive energy that is palpable in many ways.

Nancy Ann McKenzie Garrett, 78

Nancy Ann McKenzie Garrett was born June 3, 1942, to Laura Ruppert McKenzie and Edwin McKenzie, Whitefish.

Owner retrieves gun left in rental car

An employee at a rental car business found a handgun while cleaning the vehicle and called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to see what needed to be done. An officer collected the gun, called the last person to rent the vehicle and determined he was the owner. The gun was returned to him and everyone went on their way.

Mary J. Taylor, 78

Mary J. Taylor, 78, passed away due to natural causes at Sweet Memorial Nursing Home in Chinook on Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2020. Cremation has taken place, and memorial services will be held when Mary’s friends and family are able to gather to celebrate her life. Memorial donations may be made in her memory to the Harlem Public Library.

Concert, rodeo big drivers of fair ticket sales

While gate admission to this year’s Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo was down significantly from last year, rodeo participation, market livestock entries and auction revenue were all up. That’s according to Flathead County Fairground manager Mark Campbell, who presented initial highlights from the five-day event to the Flathead County commissioners Tuesday morning.

New Muldown School ready for students

A pair of giant green scissors were used to cut the ribbon last week officially celebrating the completion of the new Muldown Elementary School building.

Fundraising challenge sets new record at midpoint

The Great Fish Community Challenge, a charitable giving campaign benefiting 56 local nonprofits, is now in the fourth week of the seven-week campaign and has set a new record for gifts collected in the first three weeks of the Challenge. More than $700,000 has been raised to date.

Kalispell council to continue online meetings

The Kalispell City Council discussed holding in-person versus virtual meetings at a work session held over Zoom videoconference on Monday evening.

Bigfork ACES finds new, larger home near school

The ACES After School program has been a fixture in the Bigfork community and lifeline for working parents for the past eight years as a local provider of affordable childcare just steps away from Bigfork Elementary School. But the future of the program was in flux earlier this year when director Cathy Hay learned that the building they’d been renting at the corner of Grand Drive and Commerce Street was on the market. She began searching for a new home that would meet three primary needs including more space, a location near the school and, ideally, come equipped with a commercial kitchen.

Legals for August, 26 2020

Legals for August, 26 2020

Mercer is girls’ medalist, Flathead girls, Glacier boys 2nd at Missoula Invite

EAST MISSOULA – Flathead’s girls and Glacier’s boys finished second in the team races while Flathead’s Marcella Mercer again was girls’ medalist at the Missoula Invitational held Tuesday at Canyon River Golf Club.

Gallatin County announces fan limits for fall sports

There will be spectators at Gallatin County high school sporting events this fall, the county announced Tuesday.

City of Whitefish employee tests positive for COVID

The city of Whitefish has been notified that an employee has tested positive for COVID-19, Whitefish City Manager Dana Smith said in a press release late Tuesday.

California wildfires affecting local air quality

While wildfires in Northwest Montana have been minimal, smoke from blazes burning in California has settled into the region, creating some moderate health effects.

High court denies bid to restore Greens on Montana ballot

The U.S. Supreme Court has denied the Montana Secretary of State’s attempt to restore the names of Green Party candidates to the November ballot

California faces huge fires before usual peak of season

California�s firefighting agency is in talks with the National Guard and California Conservation Corps about providing reinforcements as an already devastating wildfire season threatens to get even worse

Missing baby found safe; AMBER alert canceled

6-month old baby found safe

Two Immanuel Lutheran residents test positive for COVID-19

A resident at the Skilled Care Center and Retreat of Immanuel Lutheran Communities who underwent nasal-swab testing for COVID-19 has tested positive for the virus, but continues to show no symptoms, according to facility officials.

Former Whitefish resident accused of violating parole

Drug charges in Bozeman have landed a former Whitefish resident in the Flathead County Jail.

Kalispell police investigate shooting

Kalispell Police officers are investigating a shooting that occurred early Sunday morning on the northwest side of town.

Charles Willis Swope, 85

On Friday, Aug. 21, 2020, Charles Willis Swope took his last breath and reunited with his parents Fredric and Ellen Swope, sisters Fern Merritt, Bertha Goethlich, Kathleen Jacobson and Evelyn Fulton, plus his brother Clarence.

Pamela James Longtin, 66

Pamela James Longtin passed away Aug. 22, 2020, due to kidney problems.

Students navigate pandemic changes as semester opens

On Monday, students returned to Flathead Valley Community College for the first day of the fall semester. But this year, things looked a little different.

COVID procedures explained for students, staff

Editor’s note: Other school districts’ information will be detailed in the Aug. 28 and Aug. 29 editions of the Inter Lake.

County sued over asphalt plant permit decisions

A West Valley resident recently filed a lawsuit against Flathead County and the Flathead County Board of Adjustment for recent decisions involving an application for a modification to a conditional-use permit that would allow a controversial gravel pit near her property to have an asphalt manufacturing plant.

Legals for August, 25 2020

AMBER Alert issued for 6-month-old baby

Law enforcement officials are asking for the public’s help in finding a 6-month-old baby boy who was abducted Saturday from Columbia Falls.

Kalispell council to review public participation

The Kalispell City Council will discuss the future format of council gatherings this evening, during a virtual work session held via Zoom videoconference.

Firefighters extract horse from well

The Bad Rock Fire Department saved a horse from a watery death last week after it slipped into a well on Eckleberry Drive.

NVH maintenance supervisor retires after 25 years

Joseph “Joe” Grabowski was virtually penniless when he bid a sweet farewell to Miami in 1980 for an engineering job in Georgia.

4-H and FFA Market Livestock Sale hits a new record

A record total of $642,568.75 was reached at Saturday’s 4-H and FFA Market Livestock Sale, which garnered interest outside the state when bidding moved online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘Volunteer from God’ helps the homeless

A woman reportedly told Kalispell Police Department two “tweakers,” were refusing to leave the room of a homeless man she was bringing food to. She claimed she was a “volunteer from God,” who helped transient people, and felt the pair shouldn’t be there because the man had dementia and people take advantage of him. She was counseled that police wouldn’t remove the people based on the information provided.

KRMC and NVH births

KRMC and NVH births

Clementine Schlueter, son of Ethan Schlueter and Mackenzie Knutson of Kalispell, was born June 24, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Letters to the editor Aug. 24

Water right protection and certainty is important to not only those in agriculture, but all Montanans. Whether used for irrigation or any beneficial use, all Montanans have a vested interest in the certainty and protection of water rights that is provided through the Water Rights Protection Act (S. 3019).

Legals for August, 24 2020

To Zoom or not to Zoom

A couple of weeks ago my high school senior class had a reunion — a Zoom reunion.

Wild week: scenes from the Northwest Montana Fair

Fair photos

Person cuts cords in possible copper caper

Power cords and battery cables to trailers were allegedly being cut and someone suspected whoever was doing it was after the copper inside.

COVID plans put to test as firefighters crowd camps for peak wildfire season

HELENA — Jon Paul was leery entering his first wildfire camp of the year late last month to fight three lightning-caused fires scorching parts of a Northern California forest that hadn’t burned in 40 years.

Earl Arve Johnson, 94

Earl Arve Johnson passed away on June 27, 2020, at the age of 94, due to natural causes.

Michael Duane Harp, 71

Michael Duane Harp went to meet his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 11, 2020 at home, in the arms of his wife, Sandra.

Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo results

The following individuals earned top honors for their award-winning exhibits at the 2020 Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo. The fair continues through Sunday, Aug. 23.

Patricia Miller Tarpley

Patricia Miller Tarpley of Whitefish passed away on July 31, 2020. She was born in Chambersburg, Illinois, in 1931 to William and Leta DeHart. After graduating from high school, she attended Illinois State Normal University in Normal, Illinois, to study art. In 1953, she married Wilfred “Bill” Miller and lived in Washington. She liked adventure, and one of her adventures was hiking to the top of Mount Rainer. While in Washington, her first three children were born. The family moved to Whitefish in 1961 where they built their home and had two more children. She raised her five children on Whitefish Lake. She was a talented artist and an outdoors woman. She loved Whitefish community and often was involved in community projects. She was an incredibly talented artist and in early years had won several awards and recognition for her art.

Bruce Winton Rorvig, 85

Bruce Winton Rorvig passed away on Aug. 18, 2020, of natural causes at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Richard ‘Rick’ Lyle Cockrell, 73

Richard “Rick” Lyle Cockrell, age 73, of Columbia Falls, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2020 at his home.

Howard Dale McMillan

Howard Dale McMillan died peacefully in his home the morning of Monday, Aug. 17, 2020 in Kalispell. He was 87 and surrounded by his loving family.

Groups look to secure funds for 800-acre C-Falls conservation project

For more than a decade, conservation and environmental organizations have been pining after 800 acres of prime wilderness real estate located just east of Columbia Falls, at the mouth of Bad Rock Canyon. And the coveted property, currently owned by the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co., is finally up for grabs.

Legals for August, 23 2020

PHOTOS: PRCA Rodeo at the Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo

Photos from the PRCA Rodeo at the Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo on Aug. 20-22 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell.

Death reported in Flathead County care facility linked to COVID-19 outbreak

On Saturday, the Flathead City-County Health Department confirmed the death of a person living in a long-term care facility in Flathead County where an outbreak of COVID-19 cases has been linked to.

Separation from county under consideration

The Flathead City-County Health Department’s Board of Health and representatives from the Flathead Community Health Center recently voiced support for moving forward with an agreement that would allow the health center to separate financially and operationally from the county.

Man admits threatening to kill CPS workers

A Martin City man pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead County District Court to threatening the lives of Child Protective Services workers.

New facility nearly finished, ready for first day of school

The new Somers Middle School is roughly 95% complete and on target to open for the first day of school on Sept. 8.

Coram-West Glacier fire hall completed

The Coram-West Glacier Fire Department has a new home at the corner of U.S. 2 and Seville Lane.

Noisy device prompts headaches

Some neighbors thought there was an “ultrasonic” dog barking device in a nearby residence that was causing them to get headaches. One of the people who had allegedly developed a headache greeted Kalispell Police Department officers with “vulgar language, demanding something be done.” It was determined this was a civil issue and the neighbors were advised to contact a lawyer.

Columbia Falls planning board OKs scaled-back downtown project

The Columbia Falls City-County Planning Board last week recommended approval of an amended plan for the city square off Nucleus Avenue owned by developer Mick Ruis.

Slight property tax decrease part of $87M budget

The Kalispell City Council approved an $87 million budget for the coming year at a virtual meeting held Wednesday that will slightly reduce property taxes.

Kalispell man jailed on domestic assault charge

A man accused of punching his wife in front of their two children has been returned to jail after authorities said he violated his bond conditions.

Legals for August, 22 2020

Whitefish boys go low in Polson

POLSON – Billy Smith led a 1-through-5 finish by the Whitefish boys, who took the team title at a triangular golf tournament held at Polson Bay Golf Course Thursday.

Immanuel Lutheran reports three staff test positive for Covid-19

Three employees at Immanuel Lutheran Communities tested positive for COVID-19 this week during the required nasal swab testing put in place to protect residents, according to a press release sent late Friday.

Column: An easy fix, relatively speaking

What AAA cannot provide your family can make up.

Residents, staff test positive for COVID at Whitefish nursing home

A total of 14 residents and employees with Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center have tested positive for COVID-19.

Arizona man accused of DUI homicide pleads not guilty

An Arizona man accused of killing a Kalispell resident while allegedly driving drunk pleaded not guilty Thursday afternoon in Flathead County District Court.

Small hooves and big hearts: Mini horses master the arena

The competitors were tough inside the Northern Stars Arena at the Northwest Montana Fair — but they certainly weren’t tall.

Crews battling regional wildfires

U.S. Forest Service crews are battling four small wildfires in Northwest Montana.

Flathead Marines take ‘Best Food of Fair’ title

The Flathead Marines know a thing or two about chicken. In fact, as many fairgoers can attest, you’re likely to smell their booth before you see it. Under the shade of a tent, dozens of chickens are barbecued for nearly an hour until they reach a delectable golden-brown hue. Their chicken dinner has been a staple of the Northwest Montana Fair for years and took second place at last year’s fair food competition. But this year, this group of veteran chefs came out on top in the 2020 Northwest Montana Best Food of the Fair contest.

Diane Bowersox, 72

Diane Bowersox, 72, of Airway Heights, Washington, passed away peacefully at Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane on Aug. 8, 2020.

Road wasn’t built as a drag strip

Someone called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office and reported cars were using Three Mile Road as a racetrack.

Legals for August, 21 2020

Whitefish workshop destroyed by fire

A workshop located behind a residence on Fifth Street West in Whitefish was destroyed by fire Thursday afternoon.

Plan OK’d to buy aluminum company land

The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Commission in an unanimous vote last Thursday endorsed a plan for the Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area along the Flathead River just outside Columbia Falls.

Letters to the editor Aug. 20

So now many liberals want us to support “Black Lives Matter, Inc”. I don’t wonder why. It is so blatantly obvious that BLM is just a euphemism and a vehicle for the leaders of this “cancel culture” movement who desire to tear this country apart and redo it under their codified versions of socialism and communism. It certainly isn’t about individual black lives as is so painfully obvious when Chicago had, over one weekend, over 100 shootings with 14 deaths, all black without hardly any mention of it in the press. It’s really not about black lives but rather attracting liberal votes and It has been that way ever since Obama was elected and made everything about race. In reality, It’s all about the Democrat political machine — that’s why nothing changes.

Ronan man arrested in alleged shooting at party

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred at a party early Sunday morning in St. Ignatius.

Intoxication leads to fight in Bigfork

A man was reportedly “sucker punched” and kicked in the face on Electric Avenue in Bigfork. Someone told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office the semi-conscious man was lying on the sidewalk and spitting up blood. All parties and bystanders involved in the fight were said to be heavily intoxicated and gave different descriptions of the suspect’s vehicle and direction of travel. The victim declined an ambulance and received a ride home.

Edwin E. Blackler, 77

Edd Blackler, 77, passed away on Aug. 18, 2020, after a struggle to defeat pancreatic cancer. He died at his home south of Bigfork, in the company of his wife, Janet, and his loyal dog, Kenai.

Wil Griswold, 23

Wil Griswold, 23, was born July 26, 1997, and passed away Sunday, Aug. 16 2020.

Forest project north of Whitefish approved

A sizable forest management project encompassing about 51,000 total acres just north of Whitefish in the Tally Lake Ranger District was recently green-lighted by Flathead National Forest officials.

Glacier visitation down overall

With half of Glacier National Park closed due to COVID-19, visitation is down sharply over last year, with one exception — Polebridge.

Legals for August, 20 2020

Local AA gridders off and practicing

Football practices just began for Kalispell’s two Class AA schools but things are looking up – if for no other reason than the athletes are outside, getting some long-awaited reps.

Column: An easy fix, relatively speaking

What AAA cannot provide your family can make up.

Man arrested in Evergreen incident that involved cologne bottle, not gun

A 52-year-old Kalispell man is being charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest following a Sunday evening incident in front of Super 1 Foods in Evergreen, where he was pointing what was thought to be a gun at people and pretending to shoot them, according to a press release from the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Kenneth ‘Ken’ Paul Haugan, 95

Kenneth “Ken” Paul Haugan, 95, passed away on Aug. 7, 2020, at his home with family at his bedside.

T-Mobile expands 5G network to rural Flathead areas

T-Mobile recently expanded its 5G wireless network in the Flathead Valley to include Hungry Horse, Little Bitterroot Lake, Marion, Martin City and Olney.

Zoning changes in highway corridor considered

The city of Whitefish proposes to add another layer of planning oversight for some businesses in the secondary business district along the U.S. 93 South corridor by changing them from permitted to conditional uses.

Phillips County Fair likely contributed to COVID-19 outbreak along Hi-line

About three weeks ago, Montana’s longest, continuous fair unfolded once again in the small town of Dodson on Montana’s Hi-line with most of the offerings attendees would usually expect — a ranch rodeo, AMX races, a demolition derby and a concert.

Frank Newbury

Frank Newbury’s final road trip is underway. “Huckleberry’s” log book entry shows the journey began Aug. 10, 2020, at 1:45 p.m. Though he had no passengers on this last journey, Frank was not alone.

Perseverance pays off for graphic novelist with themed comic book

Zachary Block knows a thing or two about the virtues of perseverance.

Legals for August, 19 2020

Fall sports COVID-19 rules released for Flathead County

The Flathead City-County Health Department and Flathead County’s high school activity directors have written guidelines for athletic events this fall, adding clarity to a confusing time amid COVID-19.

Mercer is medalist, Wolfpack boys second at G Falls golf

GREAT FALLS – Flathead High School’s Marcella Mercer took medalist honors and the Glacier High boys were second in the team race at the Great Falls Invitational meet held Monday at Meadow Lark Country Club.

Flathead County opts for poll election

Flathead County has made the decision to proceed with a poll election for the upcoming general election on Nov. 3, as opposed to using an all mail-ballot election that several Montana counties have opted for amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Flathead Lake waterfront real estate inventory low

This summer, toilet paper isn’t the only thing that’s been hard to find in the Flathead Valley. The inventory of residential properties for sale on Flathead Lake is nearing a record low number, according to August data from the Waterfront Market Report compiled by Realtor David Fetveit.

Daughter’s trip a ‘silent’ protest

The mother of a “silent” protester called the Columbia Falls Police Department because her daughter was headed to Oregon. She was concerned because the daughter was talking about everyone being against her and acting oddly.

Bigfork victim testifies at burglar’s sentencing

A Bigfork woman battling cancer spoke about the effects a burglary had on her during a sentencing hearing for the perpetrator last week in Flathead County District Court.

Whitefish stepping up law enforcement on drunk driving

In an effort to crack down on drunk driving, Whitefish will experience an increase in law enforcement patrols starting Wednesday, Aug. 19, and continuing through Labor Day.

Lake County opts for mail-ballot election

The Lake County commissioners voted unanimously last week to direct Election Administrator Katie Harding to prepare to conduct the Nov. 3 general election by mail ballot.

MSU student shares skills with a new generation of 4-H members

Bethany Lyford has a long history in 4-H. She has raised hogs, steers, even bred cattle, but her latest endeavor is with the children.

Daines details bipartisan forest reform bill

Conservationists, forestry leaders and local elected officials met with Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.) in Kalispell Monday morning to discuss the introduction of a new bipartisan reform bill that aims to reduce environmental litigation, increase active forest management on federal lands, accelerate post-wildfire restoration and more.

Plan includes on-site, remote learning

The Whitefish School District board today will vote on a plan to transition into fully reopening schools that has students doing a combination of on-site and remote learning for the first month.

Graphic: How Flathead Valley business owners are coping with COVID-19

On Sunday, the Daily Inter Lake wrapped up an eight-part multi-media series documenting COVID-19’s effect on businesses and employment across Northwest Montana. From

Letters to the editor Aug. 17

There are few issues of more conspicuous lunacy today than defunding the police. Particularly, the idea of defunding School Resource Officers will make schools unsafe. Have we forgotten the violent active shooter events that schools endured in recent years? Removing SROs will leave schools vulnerable to violence and promote a climate of lawlessness. Teachers need an atmosphere of peace and security to teach students the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in life. SROs assist schools in creating this peaceful environment.

Woman jumps out of car in lovers’ quarrel

Kalispell Police Department responded to a report of a driver who allegedly swerved at a pedestrian and “threw herself out of the vehicle” on Quincy Loop. The vehicle reportedly rolled into a nearby power pole. The driver, who was unlicensed, was limping and yelling back and forth with the pedestrian. The pedestrian was said to be her ex and the incident “over a lovers’ quarrel.”

Kalispell council to vote on $87M budget

The Kalispell City Council is on track to approve a $87 million budget for the coming fiscal year at its meeting tonight.

Legionella rumors addressed in Lincoln Co.

Lincoln County Health Department officials pushed back last week on rumors that Legionella had spread throughout the community through the use of face masks.

Whitefish budget factors in utility upgrades

A proposed final budget of $65.5 million is the centerpiece of tonight’s Whitefish City Council meeting.

New needlework superintendent keeps textile arts alive

The torch has been passed to a new superintendent of the Northwest Montana Fair’s Needlework Department, and it is burning as bright as ever. Orry Nail comes to the role with a fire for teaching younger generations about age-old crafts like weaving, spinning, sewing, quilting, knitting, crocheting and embroidery.

Births NVH and KRMC

Isabella Christina Inselman, daughter of Kendra and Nathaniel Inselman of Kalispell, was born May 5, 2020, at North Valley Hospital.

Legals for August, 17 2020

New Jersey man dies in rollover crash in Flathead National Forest

A 33-year-old man is dead and his wife seriously injured after their vehicle rolled down a hill in Flathead National Forest.

Be flexible as schools navigate reopening plans

The general angst among parents, students and teachers is palpable as the valley gears up for a return to school in these unprecedented times of COVID-19.

Healthy people are being demonized and campaigned against

I have been a registered nurse for over 29 years, the majority of which has been spent in the community health setting. All of my jobs during this time have involved infection control, whether that was part of orientation and general practice, or more often a vital part of my responsibilities as a manager. Quite frequently, I had the responsibilities of writing policies and procedures regarding infection control and also was responsible for training and oversight of infection control. None of what is currently occurring today (particularly relating to the wearing of masks) in any way squares with either my training, education or practice, and I have worked in a wide variety of settings.

Election mail bag Aug. 16

I’m writing in support of Kathleen Williams for U.S. Representative in November. I have met her and listened to her speak twice in the past few years. I am impressed by her background in working on the Environmental Quality Council, a strictly bipartisan working committee established by the Legislature in 1971. She was instrumental in reaching compromises between ranchers, farmers, tribes and various groups in order to produce solutions that all parties could agree to, including water rights agreements.

Trump to withdraw Pendley�s nomination as public lands chief

A senior administration official says President Donald Trump intends to withdraw the nomination of William Perry Pendley to head the Bureau of Land Management

BNSF closes Glendive facility as commerce plummets

BNSF Railway Co. closed its maintenance facility in Glendive last month, cutting approximately 85 jobs. The closure is one of many changes coming down the line to Montana railroads due to customers’ changing business conditions, including changes in the coal and energy sector.

Man pleads guilty to domestic gun incident

A Kalispell man accused of firing a gun during a domestic incident last month pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead County District Court.

Owners report stolen vehicle parts

Wheel wells and mud flaps were allegedly removed from a woman’s vehicle while she was working. She requested extra patrol at the business from Kalispell Police Department.

A tale of two Bobs, and a party for the ages

Bev Braig called me last week to ask about an article about her husband’s birthday that was published in the Inter Lake 40 years ago when her husband Bob turned 40. This was no regular birthday celebration in 1980. In fact, it was so unusual the Associated Press did a story that was published in newspapers throughout the state.

Fair food vendors face uncertainty this year

As the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo approaches, uncertainty seems to be the only sure thing. None of the vendors that normally sell food and drinks on the grounds know quite what to expect at this year’s event.

Service industry taps into innovation

Bars and restaurants across the valley are serving up innovation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Report: Glacier County leads state in COVID testing rates

Glacier County has performed the highest rate of testing in the state since COVID-19 was first detected in Montana on March 11, according to a recent epidemiology report and other testing data from Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

JoAnn Peterson, 67

JoAnn Peterson, 67, of Sioux City, Iowa, passed away Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020, at her home surrounded by her family, following a long illness.

Robert Boyd Askelson, 84

Robert Boyd Askelson entered into the hands of his Lord on Monday, Aug.10, 2020, at the age of 84.

John Lewis Carpenter, 84

One of Whitefish, Montana’s most memorable citizens, John Carpenter, has passed away after a lengthy struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He was released from his broken body on Aug. 2, 2020.

JoAnne Ruth Olson Blake, 85

JoAnne Ruth Olson Blake, 85, of Kalispell, died peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, Aug. 9, 2020, at her residence at the Spring Creek Inn in Bozeman. “Jo” was born on July 20, 1935, in Missoula to Ellen (Shaffer) Olson and Carl Olson. Carl was a 100% Swedish first generation Montanan and Ellen was from Howard, Kansas, a standard mix of early American heritage. Ellen was cutting hair in her late teens in Butte when she first met Carl, a Butte native and mine laborer. From this marriage came Charles “Snooky” Olson and later, JoAnne herself.

Arthur Welcome Cunningham, 72

Arthur Welcome Cunningham, 72, of Kalispell, passed away at home on Aug. 8, 2020, surrounded by family after a four-year battle with cancer.

Chuck White, 88

Chuck White’s wonderful life ended on Aug. 8, 2020, in Kalispell.

Donald ‘Don’ Fred Hellman, 86

Retired Kalispell police officer Donald “Don” Fred Hellman, 86, passed away on Aug. 7, 2020, in Kalispell.

Immanuel Lutheran breaks ground on The Cottages at Buffalo Hill

Immanuel Lutheran Communities held a ground-breaking ceremony on Wednesday to celebrate the coming addition of The Cottages at Buffalo Hill, a new housing development for adults 55 and over.

Scuba-diving enthusiasts help others take the plunge

With scuba shops in Kalispell and Helena, Glen and Karen McKinnon are spreading their love of the underwater world throughout Montana.

Garden offers pick of beautiful blooms

Cathy Stansbury and her family have devised the ideal business for social distancing.

Anita L. Hoye, 81

Anita L. Hoye, 81, of Kalispell, passed away Aug. 11, 2020 in Kalispell.

Bullock’s steady leadership will keep Montanans safe

As health-care workers across Montana, we applaud Gov. Steve Bullock’s steady leadership and commitment to keeping Montanans safe during this unexpected and unpredictable public health crisis.

Masks are good for business

It is popular to say that government should be run like a business. Those arguing about wearing masks should look to local and national businesses; they will see that masks are good for business. The governor’s mask requirement is a way for us to keep the Flathead open for business. The anti-mask protests that we have seen at City Council meetings and around the Northwest Montana Fair are putting this in jeopardy.

Letters to the editor Aug. 16

I have not closely followed letters regarding Covid-19 but after reading the Aug. 8 article about Rosita’s restaurant in Libby and their recent dilemmas it was time to react.

The fight for freedom

America is under siege. We are threatened by an enemy that is undermining the very foundations of our Constitution and the American values that have created, in the words of Ronald Reagan, the world’s “shining city of a hill.” This war against the heartland is not being waged by our traditional global adversaries or even the jihadist terrorists who have vowed to destroy America and everything in it. This is a battle being fought from within.

Legals for August, 16 2020

Health officials drop proposed flavored vaping product ban

The Montana health department decided to withdraw a proposed rule that would ban flavored vaping products in the state

Kahle making habit of strong finishes

It is true that Cameron Kahle needed a birdie on 18 last weekend to win the Whitefish Lake Golf Club championship, and that he got it, but it isn’t the highlight of his young career.

About 600 Kalispell students opt for remote learning

About 10% of kindergartners through 12th-graders currently enrolled in Kalispell Public Schools have opted to learn remotely because of the COVID-19, pandemic according to the district.

Man with jug of milk draws suspicion

A man was concerned because he saw another man talking to some young children near a church on Main Street in Kalispell. The caller thought something was off because the suspicious man was holding a gallon of milk. Kalispell Police Department officers made contact with the young people and they informed the officers there was nothing out of the ordinary about the man with the milk.

Flathead chase suspects plead not guilty

Two Oregon residents accused of being involved in a high-speed chase and assault of a police officer in the Flathead Valley last month appeared Thursday morning in Flathead County District Court.

Performers get creative to overcome COVID obstacles

Artists are hardly considered essential workers, and their repercussions from the COVID-19 outbreak aren’t as obvious as the impacts on health-care workers or grocery store employees. But the closure of bars and restaurants, along with the cancellation of concerts and other large gatherings, has stopped the music for a lot of local entertainers. The situation has forced singers, actors and instrumentalists to do what they do best: get creative.

Teachers’ union, school board negotiate levy spending

Two general-fund levies totaling $591,454 for Bigfork High School and Elementary School passed in May on the grounds that the majority of the funds would be used to bring teacher salaries in line with those of other area schools. But the Bigfork School District 38 Board of Trustees and the Bigfork Area Education Association teachers’ union have clashed over specifics of how the levy dollars will be allocated and have yet to come to an agreement after meeting twice to negotiate. The board held a workshop Aug. 5 to discuss progress thus far and their approach to the next negotiations meeting, which is tentatively scheduled for late August.

Doctor from Bigfork supports front-line workers in New Orleans

When Bigfork native Dr. Kendra Harris saw a need among her fellow medical professionals in New Orleans, she wanted to help.

Man accused of threating judge pleads not guilty

A Kalispell man has been charged with threatening a Flathead County District Judge.

Landscape artist finds niche online amid pandemic

When it comes to solitary, socially distanced pastimes, nature painting is an ideal activity. But artists like Mark Ogle are still contending with an array of unprecedented challenges as their peaceful pursuit — like just about every other occupation — has been disrupted by the wide-ranging impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Legals for August, 15 2020

9th Circuit ends California ban on high-capacity magazines

A three-judge panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has thrown out California’s ban on high-capacity ammunition magazines

Report: Post Office warns 46 states about mail voting delays

The U.S. Postal Service has sent letters to 46 states, warning it cannot guarantee all ballots cast by mail for the November election will arrive in time to be counted

Canada U.S border restrictions extended to at least Sept.

The Canada-U.S. border will remain closed to non-essential travel for at least another month

Kalispell man dies in fatal crash

A Kalispell man died Wednesday after being involved in a motorcycle crash Sunday night.

Arson suspected in Ronan wildfires

Tribal investigators suspect arson in two wildfires burning near Ronan.

NW Montana Fair and Rodeo to go on as scheduled

Efforts put forth by Flathead County Fairgrounds officials and staff to prepare the grounds for the upcoming Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo appear to have passed COVID-19 sanitary and social distancing guidelines, and the event is slated to unfold on time next week with many of the same offerings attendees enjoy year after year.

High school district levy will be on November ballot

Taxpayers living in the high school district of Kalispell Public Schools will see a $500,000 general fund levy issue on the November ballot.

Alleged drive-by shooter pleads not guilty

A Flathead Valley man who was implicated in a drive-by shooting that occurred on the west side of Kalispell four days before Christmas 2019 appeared in Flathead District Court Thursday.

Multi-family housing proposal recommended for approval

The Kalispell Planning Board on Tuesday recommended the Kalispell City Council approve a multi-family housing development proposed to the north of the Gateway Community Center.

Kalispell Schools faces $1.4M shortfall

Kalispell Public Schools will operate on a budget totaling $70.5 million for the 2020-21 school year.

Virus-closures keep some local businesses down for the count

By the end of March, the COVID-19 outbreak had closed the doors to most small businesses in the Flathead Valley — some of them, for good.

Persistence doesn’t pay off for job seeker

A woman interviewing for a job didn’t make a good impression when she refused to leave the property after the interview and employees resorted to calling the Kalispell Police Department on her.

Legals for August, 14 2020

NVH May-June 2020

NVH May-June 2020 births

UM track coach Schweyen steps down

Brian Schweyen, the long-time track coach at the University of Montana, has resigned his position after 11 seasons.

MHSA approves conference only fall schedule

The Montana High School Association executive board passed a motion by Class AA to cancel all nonconference games for fall sports on Thursday in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but plenty of questions remain.

Column: Positive notes: Lakers and Legion ball

In these uncertain times, as the Montana High School Association mulls moving the Class AA football season to the spring and knocks the A football playoff field down to eight teams, it’s good to find some positives.

Marijuana legalization measure to appear on November ballot

The Montana Secretary of State certified that a measure seeking to legalize recreational marijuana in the state has gathered enough signatures to appear on the November ballot

Montana schools chief blasts governor over mask requirement

The ongoing dispute between Montana Gov. Steve Bullock and the state’s schools chief deepened Thursday when Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen blasted Bullock for announcing a school mask requirement without consulting her

Cost of Montana wolf hunting, trapping licenses reduced

Over the counter Montana hunting licenses and wolf licenses are now on sale.

Dock sitting a favored summer past time

It’s mid-August and summer is winding down. For those of you that know me, I am usually searching for that elusive trophy rainbow trout or some good-eating kokanee salmon at this time of year.

Main Street stores hope to rebound after virus closures

Main Street has become one of the main casualties of the COVID-19 pandemic. Lately shoppers are staying in their cars or in their houses, and travelers are holing up in their home states or countries. The result is a major dip in Main Street shopping throughout the Flathead Valley.

Frank Mervin Gray, 79

Frank Mervin Gray of Glendale, Arizona, passed away on July 23, 2020, from the effects of the coronavirus — COVID-19.

Letters to the editor Aug. 13

The when and how for the start of the 20-21 school year should be the top priority for our nation. Our children are our most valuable natural resource and deserve the best education available. Recommendations from the CDC represent only a small portion of the actions that need to be taken. The issues are far bigger than how any feet between the desks in classrooms and requirements for masks. Schools all over the nation are confronted with distancing, sanitizing, supervision, technological, etc. issues with limited resources and support.

Elderly cyclist does her own thing

A caller told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office a woman in her 80s wearing a neon yellow and green jacket with black biker shorts was riding a bike on her property. She said the bicyclist was riding on everyone’s property and it had been an ongoing issue. When the caller asked the woman to stop riding on her land, the bicyclist said she could ride wherever she wanted.

Blankenship crowds a growing concern

Overnight camping along the Flathead River at the Blankenship access has reached a tipping point that Forest Service officials need to address with both short- and long-term solutions.

Legals for August, 13 2020

Fall Mack Days tournament extended to 10 weeks

The 2020 Fall Mack Days Fishing Event on Flathead Lake is just around the corner, beginning Sept. 8.

Governor announces relief money; extends mask mandate

Montana's governor announced additional coronavirus relief money for Montana businesses, a mask mandate for schools in nearly half of the state's counties and said the state will begin paying the extra $400 in weekly unemployment benefits that President Donald Trump announced over the weekend

Buffalo Hill Terrace staff, residents test negative for COVID-19

All staff and residents at Buffalo Hill Terrace in Kalispell have tested negative for COVID-19, according to a press release from the assisted-living facility’s parent company, Immanuel Lutheran Communities.

Crews tackle Swan Mountain Range wildfire

Flathead National Forest firefighters are battling a fire in a remote area of the Swan Mountain Range.

Kalispell schools make masks mandatory

Masks will be mandatory for Kalispell Public Schools students this year following recommendations from local pediatricians.

Montana Supreme Court won't remove candidate from ballot

The Montana Supreme Court has rejected an effort by the state Republican Party to remove Democratic attorney general candidate Raph Graybill from the November ballot

C-Falls schools will require all students to wear masks

When Columbia Falls students go back to school, all students K-12 will be required to go through daily health screenings and wear masks, the school board decided Monday.

Flathead County sees third COVID-19-related death

The Flathead City-County Health Department announced Wednesday morning that a third Flathead County resident has died from COVID-19-related complications.

Builders can’t keep up with demand; manufacturers short on supplies

Summertime is construction season in the Flathead Valley, and while the COVID-19 pandemic has hindered a variety of local business sectors, the building industry certainly isn’t one of them.

Chester Ray Meeks, 79

Longtime Anchorage, Alaska, developer, devoted husband, father and Christian, Chester Ray Meeks was welcomed into the loving arms of his heavenly Father on the morning of Wednesday, July 8, 2020. His wife of 58 years, Donna, was by his side.

Wood murder trial date set for January 2021

The trial of a Polson woman accused of murdering her ex-boyfriend in Thompson Falls in 2018 has been rescheduled for early next year.

Salvation Army offers food boxes to families in need

The Salvation Army of Kalispell, serving the Flathead Valley, will provide 500 food boxes to local families at a drive-through distribution event on Saturday, Aug. 22.

Delores “Dee Dee” Faye Jensen-Franzen, 85

Delores “Dee Dee” Faye Jensen-Franzen passed peacefully and suddenly after spending time with her beautiful family and friends on Aug. 4, 2020, in Polson. Uniquely, Dee Dee passed on the same majestic homestead she was born and raised on for 85 glorious, wonderful years: just a short jaunt from her lake shore summer home where loved ones often visited.

Barbara Jean Johnson, 75

Barbara Jean Johnson, 75, took her last breath on Aug. 3, 2020, at her home in Kalispell with her daughter Athena and grandson Derek by her side.

Democratic women celebrate voting rights for women

The local Flathead County Democratic Women will celebrate 100 years of voting rights for women on Tuesday, Aug.18, and Wednesday, Aug. 26, with their presence in Kalispell. Members will be staging at Depot Park and walking along Main Street from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days.

Quadrocopter touts eClear as new security measure during pandemic

Quadrocopter and eConnect have teamed up to deliver a new level of security for businesses in the Flathead and beyond as the COVID-19 pandemic continues

Betty Olsen Blair, 86

Betty Olsen Blair was a force to be reckoned with but COVID-19 proved stronger than she. Her battle with the virus was lost on Aug. 3, 2020, the day after her 86th birthday, at Pine Meadows nursing home in Lexington, Kentucky, where she had been a resident since 2018.

Richard Marvin Phillips, 93

Richard Marvin Phillips, 93, passed away on Aug. 7, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Robb Edward Hansen, 56

Robb E. Hansen, 56, of Kalispell, passed away Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020, at his home in Kalispell.

Shirley Yeats, 91

Shirley Yeats, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to all who knew her, passed away peacefully with her son by her side, on July 21, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

History group learns about Lewis & Clark

The Northwest Montana Posse of Westerners history organization meets Monday, Aug. 17. Hal Stearns of Helena will present “Lewis & Clark Expedition: Westward Ho, Saint Louis to Travelers’ Rest — 1804 to 1805.”

Legals for August, 12 2020

2 Twins, 1 Logger named All-State A Legion

BOZEMAN – Two Glacier Twins and one Libby Logger were named to the Universal Athletic Class A American Legion All-State team this week

Lakers’ Jack Corriveau named All-State for Legion

BOZEMAN – Jack Corriveau of the Kalispell Lakers was named to the 2020 Universal Athletic American Legion baseball AA All-State team, a squad dominated by the two-time champion Bozeman Bucks.

Kahle is WFGC champion

WHITEFISH – Cameron Kahle, the defending State A boys medalist who’s entering his senior year at Whitefish High School, won the Whitefish Lake Golf Club championship that concluded Sunday.

Seattle police chief to resign following department cuts

Seattle's police chief says she will retire

Biden picks Kamala Harris as running mate, first Black woman

Joe Biden has chosen California Sen. Kamala Harris as his running mate

Efforts underway to restore Green Party to Montana ballot

Efforts are underway in state and federal courts to restore Green Party of Montana candidates to the state’s general election ballot just days after a state judge disqualified them

Montana allocates $50M to bolster child care amid pandemic

Montana is allocating $50 million to increase the availability of child care in response to COVID-19

Kalispell virtual return-to-school update Wednesday

The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce will host a live webinar with new Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent Micah Hill at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 12.

Search scaled back for C-Falls man

Authorities are scaling back search efforts for a Columbia Falls man who is believed to have gone missing in Glacier National Park in late July.

The joy of the hunt: Huckleberry harvest a summer signature

Two women were visible through the trees, just off the road up Crane Mountain. They were hunched down in the bushes, quietly chatting as their hands hunted through the scraggly branches for dark purple treasures.

Developer proposes housing near Gateway center

The city of Kalispell Planning Board will consider a request for major preliminary plat approval of a development near the Gateway Community Center at its meeting tonight.

Pandemic-driven loan load keeps local bank busy

There might be no such thing as too much business during a pandemic, but AJ King at Three Rivers Bank thinks the small community bank might be getting close. Since March, the local bank’s two Kalispell branches have been hustling to help other local businesses get the resources they need to stay afloat.

Kalispell man charged in domestic incident

A Kalispell man was arrested after a recent domestic incident that allegedly left a woman and her brother with various wounds.

Pandemic has generated extra traffic for some local businesses

COVID-19 isn’t all bad for business. In fact, some local companies are thriving, thanks to customers picking up new hobbies and adjusting to a socially distanced lifestyle.

Marion fire destroys shop and motor home

A family still in the process of moving to Marion lost a shop with living quarters and a motor home in an explosive fire on Sunday, according to Marion Fire District Chief Katie Mast.

Child reports missing stuffed animal

Dispatchers called back a phone number involved with a 911 hangup and reportedly got a child on the phone who said someone stole her stuffed animal cat, but she didn’t see anyone take it. The child said it was on the porch and it was no longer there, then asked if she could “still call the cops even if she didn’t see the robber.” Her mother got on the phone and said the stuffed animal was missing, but there was no emergency that required Kalispell Police Department, the fire department or an ambulance.

Montana surpasses 5K known COVID-19 cases, reports 75 deaths

Montana surpassed 5,000 known COVID-19 cases and has reported 75 deaths

Popular "Yellowstone" series to be filmed in Montana

The popular “Yellowstone” series featuring Kevin Costner announced Friday it plans to move its production to the Missoula Valley and surrounding locations later this month

Arthur Richard Howell, 92

Arthur Richard Howell, 92, passed away Aug. 1, 2020, at Mountain View Manor in Eureka.

Adventure on the high seas

Last week I found a curious email in my inbox at work with my brother’s name in the subject line followed by the words “Brigantine Romance.”

NVH

Nautica Duvessa ThreeFingers, daughter of Danae Amon and Gregory ThreeFingers of Kalispell, was born April 22, 2020, at North Valley Hospital.

KPS may change mask policy for students

Lead results, budget adoption also on school board agenda

With more than two weeks before school starts, Kalispell Public Schools is proposing a change to its mask policy by requiring middle and high school students to wear them at school when unable to maintain six feet of distance from others.

Youth goes for a drive in parking lot

Kalispell Police Department responded to a report of a 12-year-old girl allegedly seen driving in a motel parking lot. Officers drove through the area and didn’t see any 12-year-olds driving vehicles.

KRMC June 2020 births

Georgia school shifting online after infections reported

A Georgia high school plans to start the week with all classes shifting online after nine students and staff tested positive for the coronavirus as the school year opened with in-person classes last week

Pandemic weighs on Montana tourism industry

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on tourism in the Flathead. Travel restrictions, closures in Glacier National Park and fears of the virus have significantly depleted the valley’s biggest industry during the peak season for visitors.

States on hook for billions under Trump’s unemployment plan

A plan from President Donald Trump to extend additional unemployment benefits requires states to provide 25 percent of the funds, and it's unclear whether states have the money or the will to do it

Weekly roundup

The owners of Sweet Peaks Ice Cream have dropped plans to construct a manufacturing facility and retail store on U.S. 93 in Whitefish.

Legals for August, 10 2020

Bear causes grass fire, dies

Twins lose lead, exit State A

LEWISTOWN – For the second straight day the Glacier Twins rallied only to lose the lead and the game – as well as a spot in the State A Legion tournament.

Daines, Bullock square off over virus in first debate

Montana’s first U.S. Senate debate will pit Republican incumbent Sen. Steve Daines against his Democratic opponent, Gov. Steve Bullock

Dennis H. Johnson, 77

Dennis H. Johnson, 77, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2020, at his home in San Antonio, Texas, with his loved ones by his side. Dennis was born Feb. 3, 1943, in Portland to Astrid and Hans Johnson. He was raised alongside Bob Brovick by Orva and Bertina Steffarud in Whitefish and graduated from Whitefish High School in 1961. Upon graduation from the University of Montana, he was commissioned into the U.S. Army. After a tour in Vietnam, he married the love of his life, Frankie Anne Hacker. They had two sons, Peter and Patrick, and traveled the world in service to this great nation. Dennis served for over 26 years with multiple deployments in a variety of command and senior staff positions and received many awards and decorations, including the Vietnam Service Medal and the Legion of Merit. He retired in 1992 at Fort Sam Houston.

Trump defers payroll tax, allows some unemployment pay

President Donald Trump has signed executive orders to revive an expired unemployment benefit and defer some payroll taxes, contending he is taking action after lawmakers failed to agree on a new coronavirus relief package

Alleged drive-by shooter returns to jail

A man accused of a drive-by shooting earlier this summer is back in jail after he allegedly violated his release conditions.

US kids, parents perform DIY tests for coronavirus science

Results aren’t expected until year’s end

Six thousand U.S. parents and kids are doing DIY nasal swabs twice a week to answer some of the most vexing mysteries about the coronavirus

Rosendale’s plan will get Montana’s economy back on track

There’s no question that we’re facing unprecedented challenges in today’s economy. From job losses and disruptions in education, to deferred payments, business closures and even bankruptcies, it’s clear we have a lagging economy that is stumbling along in uncertainty. On that much, I think most all of us can agree. But where we seem to disagree is in identifying the steps needed to set a new course and get us back on the pathway to economic recovery and growth.

Election mail bag Aug. 9

From the Democrats website: “Every four years, the Democratic Party puts together our party platform, the ideas and beliefs that govern our party as a whole.” Buried deep within this documents is the statement “... As autocrats and strongmen around the world crack down on civil society and imprison those who speak out to demand greater freedom, we will continue to bolster groups and individuals who fight for fundamental human rights, democracy, and rule of law. ...”

Fair events jeopardize health of community

We are at a significant juncture in our community as we stand approximately a month before the scheduled start of the school year. Unfortunately, the timing of the Northwest Montana Fair is the weekend before this start date.

Defending government property at the expense of liberty

As I read of the use of Federal officers sent to Portland against the wishes of the Governor of Oregon and the Mayor of Portland for the purpose of “protecting federal property,” I thought of these words from the Declaration of Independence enumerating one of the reasons for rejecting the rule of the British King;

Preserve the America we know and love

I have been a registered nurse for over 29 years, the majority of which has been spent in the community health setting. All of my jobs during this time have involved infection control, whether that was part of orientation and general practice, or more often a vital part of my responsibilities as a manager. Quite frequently, I had the responsibilities of writing policies and procedures regarding infection control and also was responsible for training and oversight of infection control. None of what is currently occurring today (particularly relating to the wearing of masks) in any way squares with either my training, education or practice and I have worked in a wide variety of settings.

Letters to the editor Aug. 9

I love the fair. I love the shows, carnival and rodeo. But having worked at the fairgrounds for many years, I also know about the crowds. I’m sorry, but social distancing is not possible.

Fair concert and rodeo not worth the risk

Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo officials last week decided to cancel this year’s carnival portion of the fair “for the health of our community” and fair workers. While probably an unpopular decision with some in the community, it was the right one to make.

Couple realizes longtime dream of running bison ranch

Hot Springs ranchers Jon Sepp and Brittany Masters are chasing their dreams.

Daycare center adds consignment shop

Giggles Consignment and Kids’ Shop in Columbia Falls opened last month with the intention of creating a high-end retail location for gently used children’s apparel and toys.

Lillian Ellen (Merkle) Judge, 91

Lillian Ellen (Merkle) Judge passed away on April 29, 2020, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls, at the age of 91.

Richard Truman Grilley, 88

Richard Truman Grilley passed away on Aug. 3, 2020, at Hidden Meadow Memory Care.

Connie J. Hammond, 90

Connie J. Hammond, 90, of La Crosse, Wisconsin, and formerly of Kalispell, died on Monday, Aug. 3, 2020, at Benedictine Manor, La Crosse.

James Clay Miller, 30

James Clay Miller, 30, passed away on July 23, 2020, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish.

David Taylor Selig, 81

“David’s true love was serving God, providing for his family and helping others.”

Shade thrown on man’s sunny day

Kalispell Police Department reportedly counseled a man in a tent at Lions Park about city ordinances. The man claimed he was not camping, but told police he would pack up his “shade shelter.”

Frontline workers keep Flathead Valley moving

Under the new designation of “essential workers,” employees from grocery stores to hospitals seem to be taking the situation in stride on the front line of defense against the COVID-19 virus in the Flathead valley.

Outdoor restrooms fall through cracks of COVID guidance

The COVID-19 pandemic has created quandary for restroom use at campgrounds and trailheads, where management must decide how best to keep facilities clean, staff members safe and visitors satisfied.

Neighbors, agencies voice concerns about proposed development

A proposed new housing development east of Kalispell is expected to be a major topic of discussion at Wednesday’s Flathead County Planning Board meeting.

Legals for August, 9 2020

Bigfork elevates Benn to head football coach

From head coach to assistant to athletic director and now back to head football coach is Jim Benn, who was approved Wednesday to take over the Bigfork Vikings’ program.

Redbirds lead Twins late in State A game

LEWISTOWN – Zach Veneman’s two-run, two-out triple keyed a five-run fourth inning for the Glacier Twins Friday, but the host Lewistown Redbirds retook the lead and won their State A Legion game 9-6 Friday.

Lakers exit AA tourney with loss to Scarlets

BILLINGS – The Kalispell Lakers’ run at the State AA Legion tournament ended early, with an 8-6 loss to the Billings Scarlets in a loser-out game at Dehler Park on Friday evening.

North Fork camp and retreat proposals denied

North Fork residents showed up en masse to Tuesday’s Flathead County Board of Adjustment meeting to speak against three separate proposals for conditional-use permits that would allow for multiple camp and retreat centers in Polebridge.

Kalispell council OKs development projects in virtual meeting

The Kalispell City Council held its first meeting of the month via Zoom video conference Tuesday night after the City Council chambers were inundated by unmasked protesters Monday evening.

Grandma: loud music could start war

A grandmother was worried because her neighbors were playing loud music and her grandson started playing loud music “in retaliation.” She was concerned because she said her grandson “has a short temper.” She warned the Kalispell Police Department “there is going to be a war.”

COVID-19 among the many reasons students seek additional help

High school students participating in summer school may come in with a variety of circumstances, but all share the same reason to recover enough credits to graduate on time.

Building, real estate bright spots in Montana economy

At the mid-point of the year, the national and state economies look predictably bleak as businesses continue to contend with the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. But expert analyst Patrick Barkey, director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana, sees a few surprising—perhaps even heartening— highlights in Montana’s economic situation.

Kalispell man accused of assault at restaurant

A Kalispell man is facing a felony charge of burglary after a violent incident at a local taco restaurant.

Whitefish’s Depot Park renovation completed

Depot Park is the open space at the heart of downtown Whitefish. The park plays host to family gatherings, lunchtime picnics and major events, and is often the first glimpse of town visitors get when coming off the train.

Big Sky Conference postpones football to spring

FARMINGTON, Utah – The Big Sky Conference made it official Friday morning, announcing via press release that its conference football season is postponed until spring.

Libby restaurants bear brunt of mask ire

It started a couple of weeks ago with occasional insults from tourists. By Aug. 4, the abuse from customers refusing to wear masks had reached such a horrifying level that Kyle and Mindy James, joint owners of Rosita’s Mexican Restaurant on Ninth Street in Libby, decided to suspend dine-in service.

Frontier moves volleyball to spring; in-state football schedule remains this fall

WHITEFISH – The Frontier Conference announced Friday that while it plans to continue with a round-robin football season for Montana schools, volleyball is moving to the fall.

Big Sky Conference may postpone football season

FARMINGTON, Utah – The Big Sky Conference made it official Friday morning, announcing via press release that its conference football season is postponed until spring.

Neighbors aim to change name of Lost Coon Lake

A group of neighbors who live around Lost Coon Lake, along with the city of Whitefish, are expected to soon file a petition in court to change the name of the lake due to its connection to a racial slur.

Accidental 911 calls run the gamut in Whitefish

A woman who dropped her phone in the toilet at a Whitefish residence was trying to clean it off when she accidentally called 911, according to the Whitefish Police Department. And there were plenty of other errant emergency calls. A 911 call was the result of a driver accidentally hitting the SOS button in his vehicle near the mirror. Other mistaken 911 calls came from the lake, near the tennis courts, a 10-year-old butt dialer and from someone who had her hands full with food from the store.

Tester wants aid directed to hospitality industry

As Congress continues to negotiate the next COVID-19 rescue package, U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., said he isn’t hopeful a final bill will be ready anytime soon.

Polson selects new city manager

The city of Polson has offered its city manager position to Livingston’s former City Manager Ed Meece.

On Flathead Lake’s islands, trespassing, improper use are growing concerns

This week’s fire on Bird Island has rekindled trespassing and unauthorized land-use concerns among landowners on Flathead Lake’s islands.

Report: Class AA to eliminate nonconference games

The start of Class AA football could be delayed this fall.

Reports: Big Sky moving season to spring; announcement expected Friday

expected Friday

The Big Sky Conference presidents have either voted to cancel the 2020 fall football season, as reported by several sources Thursday, or they haven’t, and in any case it might be a formality,

Lakers lose rain-delayed State AA game

BILLINGS – The Kalispell Lakers finished their game with the Helena Senators in a different place than it started, but it didn’t go well in either venue.

Legals for August, 7 2020

Flathead County sees more than 300 total cases

Montana’s COVID-19 Task Force reported more than two dozen new cases in Flathead County Thursday morning, pushing the county’s cumulative case count past 300 as the area, along with much of the state, continues to experience an upswing in positive cases.

Montana allows counties to hold all-mail voting in November

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock has issued a directive allowing counties to hold all-mail elections come November to limit the spread of the coronavirus

PHOTOS: Community-minded mural pops up on West Center Street

Artist Thomas Valenica, of Creston, is in search of a few helping hands. Valencia is in the process of creating a mural along West Center Street at Fifth Avenue West in Kalispell. He’s doing the painting himself but he’s in search of anyone willing to “lend a hand or two” in hopes of filling a white panel of space beneath the mural with painted hand prints.

2 Keystone XL pipeline workers test positive for virus

A Canadian company says two people working on the Keystone XL oil pipeline have tested positive for the coronavirus in northern Montana, prompting a temporary shut down of a pipe yard

Commission to consider proposed Flathead wildlife area

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks wants to acquire a chunk of forest land along the Flathead River near Columbia Falls for a new wildlife management area.

Search continues for missing Ronan man

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office continues its search for a missing Ronan man who disappeared Saturday while picking berries with friends.

Olney crash victim identified

Authorities have identified a Eureka man who died in a vehicle crash last week near Olney.

Pandemic’s bumps shape U.S. Senate race

MISSOULA — Bradshaw Sumners watched throughout February as COVID-19 hot spots developed in major American cities, waiting to see when the coronavirus pandemic would manifest in Montana.

Bill Odegaard, 81

Bill Odegaard, 81, of Clovis, New Mexico, passed away Saturday, July 11, 2020 at his home.

Fair Market Livestock Sale switches to online platform

The annual Market Livestock Sale scheduled for Aug. 22 at the Northwest Montana Fair will be conducted via an online bidding platform this year in response to slowing the spread of COVID-19 in Flathead County, the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness Committee announced Wednesday.

Gina Deborah Pallone, 56

Gina Deborah Pallone, 56, of Fort Morgan, Colorado, passed away Wednesday, July 29, 2020, at her home in Fort Morgan.

Lake County authorities investigate Pablo shooting

One man was hospitalized and another man is being investigated after a shooting in Pablo Tuesday night.

Officials seeking more info on grizzly shooting in Browning

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Blackfeet Fish and Wildlife Department are still seeking information related to the illegal shooting of a female grizzly bear that officials estimate occurred on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in mid-May.

Election mail bag Aug. 6

Senator Steve Daines has often been critical of federal judges who “legislate from the bench,” in his words, but apparently legislating from the bench is perfectly acceptable as long as it suits his ideological goals.

Whitefish Police seek man in VFW death

The Whitefish Police Department is working with California authorities to find a man allegedly involved in the death of a Flathead Valley resident.

Columbia Falls apartment building catches fire again

Columbia Falls firefighters were back on the scene Wednesday morning at an apartment building on Fourth Avenue West that caught fire, again.

Legals for August, 6 2020

GOP wants Democratic attorney general candidate off ballot

The Montana Republican Party is asking the state Supreme Court to rule that the Democratic candidate for attorney general does not meet the qualifications for the office and should not appear on the ballot

Big Arm man pleads guilty to child sexual exploitation

A Big Arm man accused of felony child pornography recently pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court.

Montana to spend $530K in relief money on Census

Montana is spending $530,000 in coronavirus relief money to boost Census outreach efforts

Fair carnival canceled amid COVID-19 concerns

This year’s Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo attendees can still expect the beloved event to unfold in two weeks, but this time without a carnival.

‘Dock chairman’ not prepared for party time

The alleged “dock chairman” of Monaco Drive in Lakeside called Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report what he believed to be youths hanging around a dock area and that it “looked like party time or some damn thing,” and reportedly did not want to check on the revelers by himself due to his age and possibly one participant living in the area.

Legals for August, 5 2020

Triplet threats: Ben and Jack Corriveau bolster solid Lakers

In the span of about six minutes in 2001 the Corriveau family grew by three: Mike and Susie became the proud parents of triplets named Jack, Marie and Ben.

Michael C. Delaney, 79

Michael C. Delaney, longtime resident of Bigfork, and Jupiter, Florida, passed away on June 16, 2020. He lived a full and complete 79 years.

Joseph Phillipe ‘Phil’ Rivard, 92

Phil Rivard, “Archie Bunker with a fishing pole,” passed away peacefully on July 29, 2020, at the age of 92.

Arthur ‘Art’ Duane Baumann, 83

Arthur “Art” Duane Baumann passed on July 30, 2020, at the age of 83, after a long battle with Parkinson’s.

John S. Petersen

Longtime Whitefish resident and local dentist John S. Petersen DDS (Pete or Jack by relatives) passed away July 23, 2020.

Whitefish man who appeared ‘Deadliest Catch’ TV show dies

An online fundraiser has been launched to support the family of a deceased Whitefish man who appeared on a TV reality show.

West Valley, Whitefish detail school opening plans

As schools in the valley continue to plan for opening in the fall, West Valley on Monday decided to push back the first day of school, and Whitefish has scheduled the first two weeks of school as a transitional period. Both districts also have survey results that show a majority of families plan to send students back to school as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

Health officer again eyes event cancellations

Lincoln County’s health officer warned late last week the continued spread of the coronavirus locally could lead to further restrictions on public gatherings.

PHOTOS: Wildfire flares up on small island in Flathead Lake

A wildfire flared up Tuesday on Bird Island in Flathead Lake, sending up a column of smoke visible from Kalispell and Bigfork.

Officials call off suppression efforts on Bird Island blaze

A wildfire flared up Tuesday on Bird Island in Flathead Lake, sending up a column of smoke visible from Kalispell and Bigfork.

New response team to help victims of Wyoming grizzly attacks

A new animal attack response team will rescue people attacked by grizzly bears in the northwestern Wyoming backcountry

Trump signs $3B-a-year plan to boost conservation, parks

President Donald Trump has signed legislation that will devote nearly $3 billion annually to conservation projects, outdoor recreation and maintenance of national parks and other public lands

Whitefish Police Department investigating deadly fight

The Whitefish Police Department is investigating the death of a man at a local bar that happened last week.

Woman rescued after climbing accident

A woman fell 80 feet while climbing in the Point of Rocks area near Olney Sunday afternoon.

Thomas Neil Tucker, 79

“How do you write an obituary for such a precious, fiery soul? The following words will be our best attempt. This is for you, Dad:”

At FVCC students can choose what back-to-school looks like

Masks in classrooms.

Managers say Magpie blaze 62% contained

It was mostly good news for the approximately 20 local residents who attended the Magpie Rock Fire manager’s meeting at the Dixon School gymnasium Monday morning.

Argument in C-Falls ends in hug fest

Someone wanted Columbia Falls Police Department to know their friends got into a verbal argument on Seventh Street, but had “hugged and made up.”

Whitefish man pleads not guilty to fraud charges

A Whitefish man has pleaded not guilty in federal court to several felony charges that include money laundering, tax evasion and wire fraud.

Roger A. Nelson, 73

Roger A. Nelson, 73

Legals for August, 4 2020

Sustainable tourism topic of discussion for Whitefish

As visitors continue to pack Whitefish even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Whitefish City Council tonight will get a first look at a new Sustainable Tourism Management Plan for the city.

Big housing projects on council agenda

The Kalispell City Council will look at a long list of development proposals at its meeting tonight. There are two large proposed housing projects and a sizable commercial development on the agenda.

NVH April births

Laelia Jane Wells, daughter of Brian and Destinee Wells of Kalispell, was born April 14, 2020, at North Valley Hospital.

C-Falls mulls permissive medical levy

The rising rates of health insurance are well-documented throughout the country. Columbia Falls is not immune to them.

Magpie Rock Fire burnout operation a success

Crews continue to battle hot, dry weather and dry fuels as they work to contain the Magpie Rock Fire located on the Flathead on the Flathead Reservation near Dixon.

Basketball a pass for woman

A woman complained to Kalispell Police Department about neighbors playing basketball, running in and out of the house and “making a lot of noise.” The noise issue had purportedly gone on for two years and she believed the children’s parents encouraged them “to make noise,” due to her complaints. Officers counseled the kids and advised her to call back if the behavior continued.

Victim advocate finds calling in working with abused kids

As a teenager, Sean Sullivan thought he was going to be a forest ranger. But as it often happens, life had other plans for him and many in the Flathead Valley are thankful.

Legals for August, 3 2020

Massive fire at Columbia Falls apartment building

Firefighters were on the scene Sunday afternoon at a multiplex apartment fire on Fourth Avenue West in Columbia Falls.

Fire destroys West Valley home

Occupants and pets safely evacuated

A West Valley home on Birds Eye Trail was deemed a total loss after several crews put out a fire Saturday night.

This election, keep your eye on the forest

I have known Bob Brown for years, and I even ran for Lieutenant Governor with him when he ran for Governor in 2004. He is a good guy who is fun to sit and visit with. But he has one failing, which probably comes from his growing up in the trees in Whitefish – being able to see the forest from the trees.

Take part in Inter Lake’s ‘thank you’ campaign

Fraught with virus-induced angst, economic challenges and civil unrest, 2020 has exceeded expectations for all the wrong reasons. It’s been a trying year from the jump, and it’s only August.

Cowboy up, mask up, keep Montana open

Wearing a mask and keeping 6 feet apart from others is the best way to stop the spread of COVID-19 and to ensure Montana businesses remain open during this challenging time. We all have a role to play during this pandemic to keep our loved ones, families, neighbors, communities and businesses safe. COVID-19 has created a new motto to help keep businesses and their clients safe: no shirt, no shoes, no mask, no service.

Bullock continues to block OPI from the table

I am optimistic for the coming school year. I would rather be talking about the positive vision for Montana education than the Governor’s vacant leadership lacking transparency. On March 3, the Governor created Montana’s Coronavirus Task Force, leaving out a significant sector impacted by COVID-19; the education community. Under pressure, the Governor’s staff allowed the Office of Public Instruction (OPI) to participate.

Letters to the editor Aug. 2

I am writing to offer a testimonial to the work of the Flathead Warming Center, to urge the Kalispell community to find an appropriate venue for them for the coming winter. I speak from experience: Christ Church Episcopal hosted the Center last winter. We could only provide space for 20 people, due to city occupancy codes, but more than 100 individuals stayed in our facilities for one or more nights, managed by Warming Center staff and volunteers. We saw first-hand how effective and how needed their work is. There is nothing to be feared and much to be gained from getting homeless people off our streets at night and into a safe location.

Instructor gives thrill-seekers the confidence to get out on the lake

What started in high school as a way to earn some summer cash on the lake continues to be a thriving business for Bigfork’s Drew Hollinger and his Flathead Wakeboard Academy.

State says Montana rental assistance program largely unused

Montana set aside $50 million in federal coronavirus relief funding to help people make their rent or mortgage payments during the economic upheaval caused by the coronavirus

Jon Gneiting, 32

Jon Gneiting lost his battle to brain cancer on July 21, 2020, after a courageous, year-long battle at the age of 32. He definitely didn’t go without a fight. Jon always fought hard and always gave 100 percent to anything and everything he did. He worked hard and loved even harder.

Catherine Lee Hunter, 77

Catherine Lee Hunter, 77, passed away on July 23, 2020 at her home.

Traveling salesmen enriched our lives

“Mom, the Rawleigh man is here,” I remember calling out to my mother every couple of months during my childhood. It was my duty to alert her of any incoming traveling salesmen — and there were several regulars — so she could quickly put on a pot of coffee, get a plate of cookies ready and tidy up the kitchen.

Woman with ‘boiling blood’ asks for shaman

A woman described as being “higher than a kite” was reportedly told to check out of a motel and leave, but hadn’t. The flighty woman allegedly called Kalispell Police Department and told them her “blood was boiling,” and she needed a shaman. She also wanted to get in touch with a tow truck that had her property. She also alleged she was abandoned and shouldn’t be alone because someone was “trying to take her life.” She wanted officers to help her leave the area, but then said she couldn’t trust local or Canadian law enforcement or U.S. Marshals and hung up.

Grizzly Council report nearly complete

After nearly 10 months and more than a dozen public meetings, Montana’s Grizzly Bear Advisory Council is on the cusp of solidifying recommendations about how to handle the state’s swelling grizzly bear population.

NVH April 2020 births

Caragana Ann Schneider, daughter of Jonny and Killashandra Schneider of Kila, was born April 2, 2020, at North Valley Hospital.

Thomas J. Mann, 77

Thomas J. Mann, age 77, passed away on July 20, 2020.

Retired physics teacher harnesses old-time energy source

Faced with hours of newfound free time during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lakeside retired physics teacher Don Bumgarner decided to take a step back in time. Wanting a rotisserie for his grill, Bumgarner set to work on his own design using not electricity, but a 500-pound steam engine from the 1880s.

COVID-19 leads to changes in fire camps, community briefings

COVID-19 is leading to several changes for wildland firefighters and the communities where they're working

Big Horn County reports confirmed coronavirus cases in jail

Health officials in southern Montana have reported about 30 confirmed COVID-19 cases on Friday, including several inmates at the Big Horn County jail

Asphalt plant, Polebridge retreat centers top agenda

Topping the Flathead County Board of Adjustment’s heavy agenda Tuesday is a request for a modification to an existing conditional-use permit that would allow for the operation of a concrete and asphalt batch plant at a gravel extraction facility in West Valley.

Winery set to open with global selection

These days, it’s harder than ever to be a world traveler, so Angela Zuba is bringing global tastes to local wine lovers. She expects to open Waters Edge Winery on Aug. 8 after six months of preparation.

Legals for August, 2 2020

Top-seeded Twins advance to district championship game

FLORENCE — Zach Veneman’s single in the bottom of the sixth inning helped the Glacier Twins break a tie and beat the Bitterroot Bucs 5-3 at the Western A district tournament on Saturday and earn a spot in the championship game today at 2:30 p.m.

Legion chairman: State AA tourney now in Billings

The State AA American Legion baseball tournament has been moved from Helena to Dehler Park in Billings, Montana/Alberta Legion baseball chairman Ron Edwards confirmed Saturday.

In Drish, the Lakers have their anchor

This story begins several summers ago when the Drish kids were visiting their grandparents in Kalispell. The American Legion Lakers’ summer camp coincided with their visit and the three boys were very interested.

Firefighters on Magpie blaze challenged by scorching heat

Fire officials on Saturday said efforts to contain a wildfire on the Flathead Reservation near Dixon have been challenging due to near-record heat and dry conditions.

Rangers push for preparedness amid spike in emergency calls

Call it near “death by selfie” situations, or not understanding the risks of recreating in the outdoors, or not being prepared for various situations in the mountains, but Glacier National Park rangers are dealing with an alarming increase in emergencies and calls for service.

Intruder stops short of panty raid

The Kalispell Police Department received a call that someone tripped an alarm at a lingerie store. The intruder apparently left a note that said they walked in, saw the business was empty and left.

Assisted-living center planned at defunct Libby school

The Lincoln County commissioners provided a letter of support for the Asa Wood Elementary School redevelopment proposal during their July 22 meeting.

Man pleads not guilty to vehicular assault

A Flathead Valley man pleaded not guilty to negligent vehicular assault and criminal child endangerment Thursday in Flathead County District Court.

Minnesota man pleads guilty to 2019 DUI homicide

A Minnesota man accused of driving drunk and killing two Flathead Valley women last summer will plead guilty to two counts of vehicular homicide.

FREEFLOW club leader earns Excellence in Education Award

As a field scientist, Eric Sawtelle appreciates the lessons that come from getting your hands dirty.

Legals for August, 1 2020