Ellington

Lady Bulldogs fall to Laurel in girls’ final

The Laurel Locomotives scored two goals in the second half and one in overtime to beat the Whitefish Lady Bulldogs 3-2 for their second consecutive Class A State soccer title.

Billings Central tops C-Falls; Eureka, Bigfork lose in Class B

Billings Central quarterback Marcus Wittman threw for two touchdowns and ran for another to lead the top-ranked Rams past Columbia Falls 35-8 in a State A football first-round playoff Saturday.

Bulldogs three-peat as state champs

Menicke scores two as Whitefish boys top Columbia Falls

Brandon Mendoza called it a high school career in style Saturday, scoring a sneaky goal that gave the Whitefish Bulldogs a 2-0 cushion in the State A boys’ soccer championship.

Father and son hospitalized after grizzly attack

A father and son from the Flathead Valley sustained significant injuries after being attacked by a grizzly bear in timberland located near Smith Lake, north of Whitefish Lake, on Saturday morning.

PHOTOS: Whitefish wins third straight championship with 3-0 win over Columbia Falls

Photos from the Class A boys soccer championship game between Whitefish and Columbia Falls at Smith Fields in Whitefish on Saturday, Oct. 31. Whitefish took home their third straight championship title with a 3-0 win over the Wildcats.

Dems keep focus on public lands despite GOP legislative win

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Democrats seeking to pick up U.S. Senate seats in Montana and Colorado are falling back on a party playbook now familiar for the U.S. West: Paint their opponents as a threat to the public lands the two sprawling Rocky Mountain states are known for.

Jet Ski trailer goes missing

law roundup

Man who robbed undercover cop in 2015 back in jail

A Northwest Montana man who tried to rob an undercover federal agent in a fake drug buy five years ago is back in custody after a series of alleged misdeeds.

Legals for October, 31 2020

Letters to the editor Oct. 31

Letters to the editor Oct. 31

Wolves rebound, lose protections. Now future up to voters

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — The saucer-sized footprints in the mud around the bloody, disemboweled bison carcass were unmistakable: wolves.

James Richard 'Dick' Chapman, 89

James Richard “Dick” Chapman, 89 obituary

Daines criticized for lax COVID protections at campaign events

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock's campaign criticized Republican Sen. Steve Daines for appearing at a large campaign event Thursday in Hamilton, saying attendees appear to have flouted social distancing and masking guidelines aimed at preventing the spread of the coronavirus.

Glacier goes to the air to rout Big Sky, 63-0

A week after a numbing loss, the Glacier Wolfpack footballers showed how quick they can run out on an opponent — and pass over the top of them for that matter.

PHOTOS: Wolfpack rolls to 63-0 win over Big Sky

Photos from Glacier's 63-0 win over Missoula Big Sky in the first round of the Class AA high school football playoffs at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Friday, Oct. 30.

Valley playoff teams hit road; Eureka hosts Glasgow

The playoffs are upon us and a couple Valley teams are putting in the miles: Columbia Falls had to go 475 to get to today’s State A playoff game against top-ranked Billings Central, for example.

Montana reports daily record of 1,063 new COVID cases

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana reported a daily record of 1,063 new cases of COVID-19 and 27 more deaths on Friday as it kept pace with the national surge of infections.

Somers Beach acquisition a step closer after vote from state board

The popular Somers Beach is officially one step closer to becoming a state park after the Montana State Parks and Recreation Board voted unanimously for Fish, Wildlife and Parks to move forward with purchasing the nearly $3 million, 106-acre property.

Puget Sound Energy's Colstrip coal plant sale falls through

SEATTLE (AP) — A deal to sell Puget Sound Energy's stake in one of the four generating units in Montana's Colstrip coal plan has fallen through. In announcing the deal in December, PSE said the sale of generating capacity in Colstrip Unit 4 to NorthWestern Energy and Talen Montana would help them meet a 2025 deadline to have a coal-free energy supply.

Open enrollment for ACA health insurance plans begins Sunday

Open enrollment for 2021 Affordable Care Act health insurance plans in Montana begins Sunday and will run through Dec. 15.

Local All-state musicians recognized

Despite the annual All-State Band, Choir and Orchestra Festival being canceled this year due to COVID-19, 26 local high school students selected to participate in the competitive program were recently recognized for their talents.

Legals for October, 30 2020

Online auction of classic boat to benefit conservation project

Polson resident Greg McCormick is looking to give one lucky bidder the chance to own a rare classic wooden boat while also helping out the Bad Rock Canyon Conservation Project near Columbia Falls.

Laura Elizabeth Rutherford, 93

Laura Elizabeth Rutherford, 93, of Whitefish, passed away of cancer at her home at The Springs of Whitefish on Oct. 26, 2020.

Kalispell high schools see 'unprecedented' spike in enrollment

Kalispell Public Schools has experienced a surge in high school enrollment and a major decline in elementary students compared to last year, according to an official fall enrollment count.

Wildlife officials collect over 170 chronic wasting disease samples

Through opening weekend of the general hunting season, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has collected more than 170 samples from harvested deer, elk and moose to test for chronic wasting disease across Northwest Montana.

Woman charged with murdering ex says it was self defense

A Flathead Valley woman accused of murdering her ex-husband, who had a history of domestic violence incidents, entered a not guilty plea Tuesday as her attorney maintained she shot the man in self-defense.

Myron 'Mike' Houston, 86

Mike Houston obituary

Flathead County: Sheriff reports surge in crime, homelessness

The Flathead County Sheriff's Office has seen an upswing in all kinds of crime this year, along with an upswing in the number of homeless people, Sheriff Brian Heino said during the Evergreen Chamber of Commerce's virtual "High Noon" luncheon Thursday.

Mountain lion perhaps waiting for take-out

Someone called the Whitefish Police Department with concern for restaurant workers because of the presence of a mountain lion in a tree behind the location. Security guards didn’t see the cat and fish and game officials were called.

The School of Rocco

Beccari has grown into a senior leader for Glacier Wolfpack

As Glacier prepares for a State AA playoff game tonight against Missoula Big Sky, Rocco Beccari, the 6-foot-3, 250-pounder is one of the team’s three captains.

Brisendine goal gives Glacier its first state soccer title

Taylor Brisendine got Glacier’s first goal of the season and then its last — she one-timed a pass just before halftime and the Wolfpack made it stand up Thursday for a 1-0 win over Helena, and a State AA girls’ soccer championship.

Former anti-masker urges caution after contracting COVID-19

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A Montana resident who called the COVID-19 pandemic a "sham-demic" and mocked mask wearers said he is now taking the pandemic seriously after contracting the virus.

Health Board to consider order limiting indoor gatherings

The Flathead City-County Board of Health will hold an emergency meeting on Monday to discuss and vote on a new Health Officer Order that would limit indoor gatherings to 500 people, with the exception of traditional church services.

Trump Jr. coming to Kalispell Saturday for rally

Donald Trump Jr. is scheduled to visit Kalispell on Saturday to stump for Republican candidates up and down the ballot, offering a star-power boost in the final days of the campaign season.

MSU poll finds close contests, strong support for legal pot

Republican and Democratic candidates were practically neck and neck in Montana's congressional and gubernatorial races just two weeks before Election Day, according to a new poll from Montana State University Billings.

Death of Montana man found in state park ruled accidental

GREAT FALLS, Mont. (AP) — Police said Thursday a 20-year-old man died of hypothermia after he went missing last weekend in Sluice Boxes State Park in central Montana.

Trump officials end gray wolf protections across most of US

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (AP) — Trump administration officials on Thursday stripped Endangered Species Act protections for gray wolves in most of the U.S., ending longstanding federal safeguards and putting states in charge of overseeing the predators.

Flathead County sees 27th COVID-related death

The Flathead City-County Health Department confirmed one additional COVID-19-related death in Flathead County on Thursday, bringing the area’s total number of virus fatalities to 27.

Letters to the editor Oct. 29

Letters to the editor Oct. 29

Woman insists broken TV is emergency

law roundup

Bigfork hosts Halloween drive-in movie

The Bigfork Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a Halloween drive-in movie night Oct. 31 at the Bigfork High School parking lot featuring two Halloween classics. "Hocus Pocus" will be shown at 5:30 p.m. followed by "Beetlejuice" at 8:15 p.m.

Column: Thomas knows where he's coming from

Back in August, when I began writing preseason stories about the Flathead and Glacier football teams, I asked Flathead coach Matt Upham for a couple impact Braves and he mentioned Alec Thomas.

Byrds of a feather

Brothers guide teams to state finals

The Byrd boys started playing soccer because their parents thought they’d get hurt playing football.

Legals for October, 29 2020

Early-release Wednesdays OK’d for Kalispell schools

Students enrolled in Kalispell Public Schools will be released two hours early on Wednesdays, starting Nov. 11.

The end of the line: A bugling bull, falling off Laverene and the ride out

The sound of rain hitting the tent was music to my ears. It was a product of a cold front which moved through the upper South Fork drainage.

Time for change

Were you surprised? Or were you prepared?

Exhibit showcases Bodily’s 70-years painting career

The Hockaday Museum of Art has often supported artists early in their careers.

Kalispell man convicted of rape in Gallatin County

A Kalispell man was recently convicted by a Gallatin County jury for raping a woman while she was drunk and unconscious.

Montana governor COVID free after staffer tests positive

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A staff member in Montana Gov. Steve Bullock's office tested positive for COVID-19, a spokesperson for the governor said Wednesday, but Bullock and Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney have tested negative for the respiratory virus.

6 people cited after hunters kill about 50 elk in Montana

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana wildlife officials have cited six people after a group of about 100 hunters shot into a herd of elk and killed about 50 of them.

Group opposed to COVID restrictions makes stop in Kalispell

A new group that opposes government COVID-19 restrictions held a meeting of several dozen people Wednesday morning at Sykes Diner in Kalispell, one of five Flathead County businesses being sued by Gov. Steve Bullock's administration for refusing to comply with masking and social distancing mandates.

Judge OKs name change for Lost Coon Lake

A Flathead County District Court judge Tuesday ruled to grant a petition to change the name of a lake southwest of Whitefish that has carried a racial slur for decades.

Fifth Flathead County business sued over COVID noncompliance

A fifth Flathead County business has been sued by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services for allegedly violating COVID-19 mandates that require business employees and patrons to wear facial coverings in an effort to curb growing caseloads.

Montana man sentenced for killing 6-month-old boy

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A 34-year-old Montana man has been sentenced to 80 years in prison for killing a six-month-old boy he babysat in 2017.

Free meals for students extended through June

The U.S. Department of Agriculture extended waivers for schools to serve free meals to all students through the end of the school year.

Neighbors report couple fighting about meth

law roundup

Wide variety of Halloween events planned for kids

This year, due to the coronavirus pandemic, neither the Kalispell Center Mall nor downtown Whitefish are planning trick or treat events or costume contests.

Mobile mammography unit in Bigfork on Friday

The Winkley Mobile Mammography unit will be at the Old Town Shopping Center in Bigfork on Friday, Oct. 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. providing mobile 3D digital mammograms.

Legals for October, 28 2020

James Charles Severson, 93

James Charles Severson joined Chester, Stanley, Bruce and Doris on Aug. 24, 1927, the baby of the family of Charlie and Ida Severson.

Thomas Frank Laird, 79

Thomas Frank Laird, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, died unexpectedly at home of natural causes on Oct. 16, 2020.

Jerry Rovang Nelson, 82

Jerry Rovang Nelson, 82, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 19, 2020, with his family by his side.

Eureka spikers beat Whitefish in three games

The Eureka Lions bounced the Whitefish Bulldogs in three games in non-conference volleyball Tuesday.

Wolfpack goes deep in sweep of Flathead

The usual suspects did their damage for Glacier Tuesday, in the Wolfpack’s straight-sets win over host Flathead in the final crosstown volleyball match of the regular season.

Missoula enacts stricter COVID measures as cases soar

MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — A western Montana community is imposing new restrictions to slow the spread of COVID-19 as cases continue to rise.

Man arrested in Dixon cold case murder

A man accused of murdering a Dixon area resident two years ago has been arrested and charged with deliberate homicide.

Suspect arrested in woman's killing on Crow Reservation

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Police in Billings have arrested a suspect in the killing of a woman on Montana's Crow Reservation.

Daines files FEC complaint alleging dark money spending

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The campaign for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Steve Daines filed a complaint with federal election officials on Tuesday over anonymous mailers attacking Daines that were sent to Montana voters.

Whitefish tightens COVID restrictions for Halloween weekend

The Whitefish City Council has approved temporary COVID-19 restrictions for the Halloween weekend as infections continue to rise in Flathead County and officials worry about the potential for a "super spreader" event.

Service providers critical of Kalispell's homelessness study

The findings of a recent report from Kalispell’s Task Force on Homelessness was the focus of a lengthy virtual Kalispell City Council work session Monday night.

Ducks targeted by unruly drivers

Someone alleged a male driving an older white Toyota truck was hitting ducks on purpose by Woodland Park, circling around and laughing and carrying on with the driver of a white Chevy truck.

Legals for October, 27 2020

Daines, Tester offer contrasting views on Barrett's confirmation

Montana's Republican senator celebrated the confirmation of Judge Amy Coney Barrett to the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday while the state's Democratic senator condemned the vote and accused the GOP of hypocrisy, illustrating the partisan divide that has hung over the court vacancy since the death of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg last month.

Kalispell schools to recommend early release on Wednesdays

As workloads and stress levels increase for teachers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kalispell Public Schools will recommend dismissing students two hours early on Wednesdays at a school board meeting tonight.

Great Fish Challenge reels in $3.2M for nonprofits

The 2020 Great Fish Community Challenge came to a close on Monday with a celebratory virtual awards ceremony.

Poll: Montanans unsure about taking potential COVID-19 vaccine

Regardless of party affiliation, Montanans increasingly report uncertainty that they will take a potential COVID-19 vaccine, according to responses to a recent Montana State University pre-election poll.

Kalispell pavement preservation project wraps up

The Montana Department of Transportation and contractor ACME Concrete on Monday completed a concrete preservation project in downtown Kalispell that began in mid-July.

Barrett confirmed as Supreme Court justice

WASHINGTON (AP) — Amy Coney Barrett was confirmed to the Supreme Court late Monday by a deeply divided Senate, with Republicans overpowering Democrats to install President Donald Trump's nominee days before the election and secure a likely conservative court majority for years to come.

Blackfeet Nation extends shutdown, adopts reopening plan

Last week, the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council approved a resolution extending the Blackfeet Reservation shutdown to Nov. 8 as local health-care personnel continue to battle an outbreak of COVID-19 that has killed more than a dozen tribal and community members.

2 Montana tow truck drivers killed at accident scene

COLUMBUS, Mont. (AP) — Two tow truck drivers were killed when they were hit by a pickup truck while working an accident scene on icy Interstate 90 in southern Montana, the Montana Highway Patrol said.

Montana National Guard to help with prison COVID-19 outbreak

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Army National Guard has been activated to help officers at a state prison contain a coronavirus outbreak, Gov. Steve Bullock said Monday.

Kalispell sets daily record low

The polar blast that brought record snowfall to Montana over the weekend persisted Monday morning, with new record low temperatures set across the state.

Homeless Task Force report focus of City Council meeting

Homeless Task Force report focus of City Council meeting

Roommate will not leave without a fight

A belligerent and inebriated 40-year-old was allegedly not going to move out quietly. She reportedly assaulted her roommate and screamed profanities at her roommate’s mother, according to a call received by the Kalispell Police Department.

Body of Montana man to be recovered from state park

GREAT FALLS, Mont. (AP) — The body of a 20-year-old man who went missing over the weekend while camping in a state park in central Montana has been found, Cascade County officials said.

KRMC September-October 2020 births

Ryatt Witte-Musialowski, son of Andy and Katie Witte Musialowski of Kalispell, was born Oct. 6, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Legals for October, 26 2020

Election could stoke marijuana market, sway Congress

Voters in four states from different regions of the country could embrace broad legal marijuana sales on Election Day, and a sweep would highlight how public acceptance of cannabis is cutting across geography, demographics and the nation's deep political divide.

Letters to the editor Oct. 26

Letters to the editor Oct. 26

Whitefish seeks comment on city's COVID response

Whitefish City Council is seeking feedback from community members about how the city should respond to the recent surge of COVID-19 cases in the valley.

Community closet keeper: Creston woman leads church clothing ministry

There is a hidden world beneath Evergreen’s Calvary Lutheran Church.

Weekly roundup: School rep suggests spending another $1M on Ruder

The outgoing owner’s representative for School District 6 suggested to the board last week that the district might want to consider spending another $1 million on the Ruder Elementary renovation and remodel.

Cora Beth Guay, 90

Cora Beth Guay, 90, passed away Oct. 17, 2020, at Hidden Meadows in Columbia Falls.

John 'Jerry' William Bristow, 81

Col. John “Jerry” William Bristow M.D., 81, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Oct. 20, 2020.

Legals for October, 25 2020

Letters to the editor Oct. 25

Letters to the editor Oct. 25

Glacier Bancorp announces $77 million third-quarter income

Glacier Bancorp, Inc. reported net income of $77.8 million for the current quarter, an increase of $26.2 million, or 51%, from the $51.6 million of net income for the third quarter in 2019.

Joseph R. 'Sonny' Cartwright, 81

Joseph R. “Sonny” Cartwright, age 81, passed away on Oct. 15, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Despite pandemic threat, gubernatorial hopefuls avoid COVID nitty-gritty

Just 15 days ahead of the election, Montana Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney laid out his ideas on how he’d handle the COVID-19 pandemic if elected governor. Details were few, but the Democrat’s plan became one of only a handful being offered by candidates in the 11 U.S. governor’s races about how they’ll approach what’s certain to be the dominant issue of their terms, should they win.

Residential building way ahead of last year’s numbers

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has slashed workloads for a lot of businesses in the Flathead Valley, residential building is still full-steam ahead.

Homebrew: Bigfork hops farm supplies local brewers

Local brewers have a new option in their search for a better beer with the recent expansion of the Big Sky Hops Farm in Bigfork.

Transient sees red and kicks building

Kalispell Police Department received a report that a transient wearing red shoes and a red jacket was allegedly yelling, banging his foot against a building, and refusing to leave.

Naomi Perry

Naomi Perry passed away peacefully at her home on Oct. 21, 2020.

Mini camper company expanding inventory

Sherpa Adventures is set up to succeed in manufacturing, while social distancing. Bruce Weatherby and his team make tiny teardrop trailers - ideal for the surging interest in isolated outdoor activities - and they build them all out of their manufacturing center in rural Libby.

Arena shows leadership, selflessness

Non-essential business closures and other mandates associated with the COVID-19 pandemic have battered the Flathead Valley’s economy for most of 2020, leaving some local businesses hanging by a thread and prompting others to close their doors for good.

Dale (Sutton) Reed, 68

Dale (Sutton) Reed, 68, passed away peacefully due to kidney failure Oct. 20, 2020 in Palmer, Alaska

Montana election administrators committed to safe and secure elections

We serve voters by ensuring their qualifications are valid, their information is accurate, and that they have equitable, unobstructed access to voting. We protect the integrity of the election by ensuring that every valid ballot that is timely received and legally cast is counted, and that the results are accounted for and validated through the canvass process.

Gerald ‘Jerry’ Dwayne Heitmann, 82

Dad was born to Art and Emma on April 8, 1938, on the family farm South of Anamoose, North Dakota.

Trump and Daines best for the economy

Montanans can rest assured that President Trump and Senator Daines will uphold their values. Thanks to the President’s ‘Promises Made, Promises Kept’ pro-growth agenda, Big Sky Country is well-positioned to return to the economic boom we were experiencing before the pandemic.

Libby City Council poised to allow liquor sales on election days

After a 44-year prohibition, Libby residents are close to finally being able to buy beer, wine and liquor legally in the city on Election Day.

Study: Blue Moon intersection sees about 9 million vehicle trips annually

Columbia Falls may be a small town, but being on the doorstep of Glacier National Park means it also has traffic and lots of it.

Who is the Wizard behind the curtain?

According to campaign finance reports, the campaign pushing to put pot shops on every corner here in Montana has close to $7 million in the bank. They are using this money to put ads on television and the radio, put up billboards, and sending mailers trying to convince Montanans that commercializing marijuana is somehow a good idea.

Elections do matter

With emotion, the young army colonel told me that he was convinced that democratic countries were the freest and most prosperous places to live. He wanted his children to live in a democracy “like the United States of America.”

Loved Ones’ Care on the Ballot in Attorney General Race

I’m Raph Graybill, and I’m running to be an independent watchdog as Montana’s next Attorney General. I’m a fifth generation Montanan from Great Falls and the son of a Lutheran minister. I’m a proud product of Great Falls Public Schools and served alongside the NYPD. I now serve as Governor Bullock’s Chief Legal Counsel, where I have the honor of fighting for you in court to protect our rights and values.

Caregivers and Alzheimer’s: ‘Remember who they were'

When family members become caretakers of relatives with Alzheimer’s

At age 14, Jack Pettitt fudged some numbers for enlistment and shipped off to the Korean War where he earned two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star. Now, at age 87, Pettitt’s bedroom in Kalispell has become his battlefield. The Army veteran is one of at least 22,000 Montanans over age 65 living with Alzheimer’s disease.

LR-130 removes local decision-making

Election ballots hit Montana mailboxes recently and many voters are scratching their heads in confusion over one measure in particular: LR-130. But, as confusing and poorly written as this measure is, the answer on how to vote on it is simple: Montana voters should vote “NO” on LR-130.

Kats can’t stop Locomotives

The Maack sisters of Laurel were again the bane of the Columbia Falls Wildkats, combining for three goals and an assist in a 5-1 semifinal win Saturday.

Young guns lift Wildcats to state final

Columbia Falls Wildcats walked off the field with a 2-1 comeback victory over the Billings Central Rams and a trip to the state championship game.

Workmanlike Whitefish back in boys’ final

The Whitefish Bulldogs took care of business and earned their fourth consecutive trip to the Class A state championship game with a 6-0 semifinal victory over the Corvallis Blue Devils Saturday at Smith Fields.

Whitefish girls upset Billings Central, head to final

The Whitefish Lady Bulldogs upset the balance with a 1-0 semifinal win over the Billings Central Rams on Saturday, earning a trip to Laurel for the state title game, their first since 2013 (Billings Central won 4-1 that year).

Flathead’s Rumsey Eash All-State

It was a little different State AA cross country race we saw Saturday, in that Bozeman’s girls somehow overcame Missoula Hellgate and Bozeman’s boys undershot a 13th straight title.

Kalispell man dies in crash near Creston

A 34-year-old Kalispell man died Thursday morning in a crash involving a vehicle and semi.

Say it ain't snow: Kalispell sets daily record for snow

Northwest Montana was spared from the worst of a rare October winter storm that walloped Western Montana Friday night.

Wish granted: Foundation covers Stillwater student's tuition

On the day before his 16th birthday, Conner McNealey’s wish was granted. The Swan Valley teen was given a year of tuition to attend Stillwater Christian School through the Make-A-Wish South Dakota and Montana. The nonprofit grants wishes for children and teens with critical illnesses.

Chicken-killing spree continues

A dog that has apparently been causing ongoing problems was reported to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office for killing “another chicken.” Its owner couldn’t be reached and a trap was set to catch the dog.

Election mail bag Oct. 24

Election mail bag Oct. 24

Legals for October, 24 2020

Northwest Montana check stations to collect CWD samples

A combination of factors have experts believing the general deer and elk season will be a good one in Northwest Montana.

Sentinel gets on roll early to rout Glacier

The Missoula Sentinel Spartans had little issue Friday – with the snow, or with the Glacier Wolfpack. Dayton Bay threw two touchdown passes and the unbeaten Spartans’ big-play offense made impacts early in each half of a 44-0 Western AA win at Legends Stadium.

PHOTOS: Glacier falls to Missoula Sentinel

Photos from Glacier vs. Missoula Sentinel in Class AA high school football at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Friday, Oct. 24. The Spartans won, 44-0.

Lions blank Vikings 28-0

Gunnar Smith ran for two touchdowns and the Eureka Lions held Bigfork’s power running game out of the end zone in a 28-0 Western B football victory Friday

Sempf, Erickson help Wildkats run to 2nd at Rebecca Farm

With Hannah Sempf surging to third and Lara Erickson taking fourth the Kats scored 70 points at Rebecca Farm. Laurel was just a little better, scoring 50 to take home the team title.

Reynolds return helps Lions repeat in B

Lochridge third for Eureka boys; Townsend wins girls’ crown

Lochridge third for Eureka boys; Townsend wins girls’ crown

7 miles of semifinals

Soccer semifinals begin for Columbia Falls, Whitefish

Soccer semifinals begin for Columbia Falls, Whitefish

State sues 4 Flathead businesses over lack of COVID protocols

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services has lodged complaints against four Flathead County businesses alleging the entities violated COVID-19 directives by failing to ensure employees and patrons wore masks and that the establishments displayed proper signage related to COVID-19 protocols.

Flathead reports 3 more virus-related deaths

The Flathead City-County Health Department reported three additional COVID-19 related deaths on Friday, bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths in Flathead County up to 26.

Yellowstone National Park to pilot automated shuttle program

JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — Park officials have said a shuttle program using automated electric vehicles is expected to launch at Yellowstone National Park next year.

Whitefish ordinance would limit bar, restaurant capacity for Halloween

An emergency ordinance could limit capacity at 50% for Whitefish restaurants and bars and limit the size of social gatherings on Friday, Oct. 30 and Saturday, Oct. 31, if approved by City Council.

Montana Supreme Court quickly dismisses lawsuit over pot initiative

Montana Supreme Court quickly dismisses lawsuit over pot initiative

Councilman: disposal boxes won’t fix used needle issue in Lawrence Park

Councilman says disposal boxes won’t fix drug needle issue in Lawrence Park

Prescribed burns begin on Stillwater Forest

The Stillwater Unit of the DNRC has plans to complete fall prescribed fire operations before winter truly sets in.

Evergreen administrator honored as superintendent of year

Evergreen School District Superintendent Laurie Barron has been named Superintendent of the Year for Montana.

Legals for October, 23 2020

Juice on the loose

A man allegedly stole orange juice and refused to cooperate with grocery store employees when they discovered the thievery, according to a call to the Flathead County Sheriff's Office.

Veronica Rose St. Onge, 16

Veronica Rose St. Onge was born to Robert St. Onge and Debby St. Onge on Aug. 28 of 2004.

Reta Sue (Rankin) VanBemmel, 85

Reta Sue (Rankin) VanBemmel, 85, passed away on Oct. 19, 2020, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Braves lose to Big Sky, end up 0-7

MISSOULA — They scored a season high and held their first lead of 2020, but the Flathead Braves couldn’t stop Colter Janacaro and the Missoula Big Sky Eagles Thursday.

Western A football playoff scenarios reviewed

The Western A football tiebreakers are out, and area teams need a little help from each other to make the Class A postseason.

Wildkats, Erickson chasing State A gold

The Columbia Falls Wildkats wish they were a little stronger heading into the State A Cross Country championships today at 10:30 a.m. at Rebecca Farm. But they’ll keep running.

Bullock cracks down on Flathead County businesses flouting COVID-19 orders

Bullock cracks down on Flathead County businesses flouting COVID-19 orders

Whitefish, Libby take part in Drug Take Back Day

On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Montanans can bring their unwanted prescription medications for no-questions-asked disposal at one of 17 participating collections sites across the state.

Ronald Bruce Stevens

Ronald Bruce Stevens was born on March 4, 1935, in Forsyth, Montana

Letters to the editor Oct. 22

Letters to the editor Oct. 22

Bengals win; face Glacier girls Wednesday for AA title

HELENA — The Bengals got a second-half equalizer from freshman Avery Kraft before beating Missoula Hellgate on penalty kicks (3-0) Wednesday, to advance to the State AA girls' state championship. Helena (14-3) will host Western AA rival Glacier (13-4) in the state title match, which is set for Wednesday (Oct. 28) at 3 p.m.

Legals for October, 22 2020

Bob hunt part 4: Meat on the pole

“Boom!” A rifle shot broke the silence of the day just after noon on the third day of the hunt.

Spy games: Man scopes mud-bogging teen

Someone looking through binoculars purportedly saw a teen driving laps and skidding through mud in a field by the fairgrounds.

Tester, Daines denounce Amtrak service cuts

U.S. senators on Wednesday questioned the chief of Amtrak about job cuts and service reductions on the carrier's long-distance passenger train routes, including the Empire Builder line that serves a dozen mostly rural communities in northern Montana.

Florence Sutherland, 98

On Oct. 20, 2020, Florence Sutherland passed away at the age of 98.5 years.

Joanne Wood, 90

Joanne Wood passed away surrounded by family at 90 years old in her Bigfork home on Oct. 17, 2020.

Flathead searches for W in Missoula; Glacier hosts Sentinel

They call this time of year “Football Weather,” and the Flathead Braves will get a dose of chilly temperatures Thursday in Missoula, where they’ll face the Big Sky Eagles.

Column: Lions’ harriers still on hunt

Andrew Gideon hopes his seventh year as Eureka’s cross country coach ends like his sixth, which means a State B boys’ championship.

Blackfoot Nation officials may extend shut down again

Blackfoot Nation officials may extend COVID shut down again

Families sue Whitefish care facility over deaths

The Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center, along with its parent company and executive director, have been sued on seven counts including negligence, plaintiffs’ right to dignity, and wrongful death by families who allege the facility did not adequately protect their loved ones from a recent COVID-19 outbreak that killed 13 residents and infected 39 others.

Unseasonable arctic front bears down on Montana

Weather forecasters are increasingly confident that Northwest Montana will experience record cold temperatures and accumulating snow beginning Friday through the weekend.

Authorities investigate suspicious death at hot springs

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a woman Tuesday night in Hot Springs.

Whitefish's Ladies Night Out canceled

The Whitefish Chamber has canceled the popular Ladies Night Out event this fall due to concerns about COVID-19 cases in the valley.

Kalispell man accused of murdering father in arson fire

Kalispell man accused of murdering father in arson fire

Bench trial set for man accused of vandalizing Ten Commandments monument

Bench trial set for man accused of vandalizing Ten Commandments

Jedidiah Alexander Hill, 6 months

Jedidiah Alexander Hill, 6 months, passed away on Oct. 11, 2020, in Kalispell.

Trick or treat … bags?

“Treat bags,” were purportedly left in planters outside the Kalispell Police Department and a man wanted officers to be aware that he was outside looking in the flower beds.

Anti-pot group challenges Montana ballot initiative

An anti-marijuana group has asked the Montana Supreme Court for an expedited decision to strike down a ballot initiative in a last-ditch effort to prevent the statewide legalization of recreational pot.

Ruby Mae Dorsey, 91

Ruby M Dorsey, 91, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully on Oct. 9, 2020, having waited for her daughter Jane from Spokane to be able to come over and be with her.

Legals for October, 21 2020

David J. Stremel

David J. Stremel, “Super Dave,” went to be with the Lord on Oct. 16, 2020.

Kay Penny Eaves, 76

On Wednesday Sept. 30, 2020, Kay Penny Eaves of Essex went into the arms of her Lord and Savior, at the age of 76.

Randy Dean Tolar, 64

Randy Dean Tolar, 64, passed away Oct. 9, 2020, at his home in Columbia Falls after a four-month battle with cancer.

Randolph Pepe, 84

Randolph Pepe, 84, passed away at Highland Manor in Mesquite, Nevada, on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020

Affordable housing for Kalispell seniors gets tax credit relief

A Kalispell senior community is among six affordable housing projects that have been selected to receive millions of dollars in housing tax credits by the Montana Board of Housing.

Kalispell to collect leaves until Nov. 20

Leaf collection efforts in Kalispell began Oct. 15 and will last until Nov. 20.

Councilor wants city to consider social gathering restrictions

One Kalispell city councilor wants the city to look into implementing social gathering restrictions due to the surge of COVID-19 cases in the valley.

Wolfpack girls headed to state soccer final for first time; boys fall to Hellgate

Glacier's girls are bound for the state AA soccer final on Saturday after a win over Bozeman

Political cop: Gianforte violated campaign finance laws

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana gubernatorial candidate and Republican U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte violated campaign finance laws by moving money from his primary election account to his general election account before paying all of the debts owed by his primary campaign, the commissioner of political practices found Tuesday.

Glacier soccer teams hope to keep magic going on road

Wolfpack teams take on Hellgate, Bozeman in semifinal matches

Majestic Valley Arena cancels events in effort to curb virus spike

All events that were scheduled to take place at Majestic Valley Arena in Kalispell over the next month have been suspended, according to facility officials who said the decision was largely made out of concern for Flathead County’s current spike in COVID-19 cases.

Nurse urges Montanans to take politics out of COVID fight

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — An emergency room nurse urged Montana residents to take politics out of the fight against the coronavirus Tuesday, as the number of cases in the state reached 24,000, the death toll surpassed 250 and hospitals are caring for 360 patients.

Montana joins landmark antitrust case against Google

WASHINGTON (AP) — Montana Attorney General Tim Fox, along with the U.S. Department of Justice and ten other state attorneys general on Tuesday sued Google for antitrust violations, alleging that it abused its dominance in online search and advertising to stifle competition and harm consumers.

Elvis sighted in Kalispell

Elvis sighted in Kalispell

Former ambassador stumps for GOP in Kalispell

Former ambassador speaks on general election in Kalispell

Health officials: COVID cases linked to large events, indoor gatherings

Health officials: COVID cases linked to large events, indoor gatherings

Great Fish awards party planned Oct. 26

The Whitefish Community Foundation will host its Great Fish Awards Watch Party at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26.

Prescribed burns planned on Kootenai Forest

The Kootenai National Forest is planning to conduct fall prescribed fire projects when weather, fuel conditions and air quality become favorable.

Architecture awards celebrate historic Kalispell buildings

Kalispell has been a hotbed of new development in recent years, but it’s the city’s historic buildings in the spotlight this year as recipients of the City of Kalispell Architectural Review Committee’s annual awards.

Thor A. Jackola, 84

Beloved husband and father Thor A. Jackola of Kalispell passed away quietly in his home Sunday, Oct. 18, 2020, at the age of 84.

Legals for October, 20 2020

Recess is more than fun and games at Edgerton

Recess is more than just random, unstructured play.

Helena man struck and killed while helping son at crash site

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A Helena man who responded to his son's call for help after he lost control of his pickup truck on icy roads was struck and killed when

Lake County jail inmates, staff test positive for virus

The Lake County Detention Center reported Monday that four inmates and one staff member have contracted COVID-19.

Political cop: Cooney accepted excess campaign donation

HELENA (AP) — Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney accepted over-the-limit donations from the Democratic Governors Association, including the disputed cost of creating a website that neither the DGA nor Cooney reported as an in-kind donation to his campaign, Montana's commissioner of political practices found.

Legals for October, 19 2020

WEEKLY ROUNDUP

A new playground is the latest improvement to Armory Park in Whitefish, but it’s just one of several future improvements planned for the park on the east edge of town.

Kalispell council will set legislative priorities

The Kalispell City Council is poised to finalize its priorities for the 2021 legislative session when it holds a virtual meeting tonight via Zoom videoconference.

Letters to the editor Oct. 19

Letters to the editor Oct. 19

Whitefish council considers architectural review changes

The Whitefish City Council tonight will hold a public hearing to consider a number of changes to the city’s mandatory architectural review standards.

Acorn not the source of suspicious damage

A man driving on Tenth Street West thought an acorn fell on top of his truck, but when he got out, he reportedly noticed a puncture hole in the driver’s side door that looked like it was caused by a bullet or arrow.

Cleanliness takes on new dimension for head custodian during pandemic

The sun is not yet up most mornings when Judd Nyberg arrives for work at Glacier High School.

KRMC September births

Maeve Laughlin, daughter of Maxwell and Kayla Laughlin of Columbia Falls, was born Sept. 10, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Flathead Valley gets first snowfall of season

Snowfall totals of 1 to 3 inches were common across the Flathead Valley on Sunday afternoon as the area saw its first winter storm of the season.

A place preserved for the sandhill cranes

September rode the thermals into October on warm wings under fair skies.

Ski resorts adapt to new normal amid pandemic

DENVER (AP) — Helmet, goggles, skis? Check. Hand sanitizer, face covering, reservation? Check.

Building bridges to protect public lands and our way of life

One month has passed since the Bridger Foothills Fire started three miles away from my hometown of Bozeman.

Misinformation about Love Lives Here

On Sunday, Oct. 11, a letter to the editor claimed that local teen groups had been “attacked” by Love Lives Here and other sources.

Legals for October, 18 2020

People allegedly throw ‘meth party’

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office reportedly received a report about a “meth party” going on because a man was seen walking with a bag where “you could tell there was a bong inside,” on U.S. 2 in Kalispell

Daily Inter Lake claims 15 awards in Montana newspaper contest

The Hagadone Montana Publishing group of newspapers in Northwest Montana earned a number of awards for reporting and advertising at the annual Montana Newspaper Association’s Better Newspaper Contest.

Daines and Bullock should make cancer an election Issue

Every year, roughly 2,140 Montanans die from cancer. Saving lives from cancer matters to me. Twenty years ago, my son was diagnosed with childhood cancer. Thankfully, he’s thriving now as one of the 17 million cancer survivors alive today in the United States.

Restrict legal immigration to protect American workers

Creating jobs for Americans ought to be every politician’s top priority. But for Joe Biden, it isn’t. Instead, Biden has pledged to expand job programs for foreign workers.

Consider the risks of recreational marijuana

In November, Montanans will vote whether to legalize recreational marijuana for state law purposes.

Not fighting my battle alone

The drive from Big Sandy to Great Falls is awfully familiar to our family. Jon drives those 70-some miles twice a week as he travels between our farm and the Senate. Often we drive together—for farm parts, haircuts, you name it. The drive is second nature. But lately, it has taken on a new meaning.

Rural Midwest hospitals struggling to handle virus surge

WESSINGTON SPRINGS, S.D. (AP) — Rural Jerauld County in South Dakota didn't see a single case of the coronavirus for more than two months stretching from June to August. But over the last two weeks, its rate of new cases per person soared to one of the highest in the nation.

Voters consider concealed carry ballot measure; referendum concerns school officials

A measure on the November ballot would strip local governments in Montana of the power to regulate concealed firearms, except in publicly owned and occupied buildings within their jurisdictions.

Evelyn Syth, 88

Our beautiful princess, mother and grandmother, Evelyn Syth of Kalispell passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center

Shelli 'Russ' Howell, 70

Shelli "Russ" Howell passed away at his home in Columbia Falls on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020.

Dennis 'Denny' Owens, 88

Dennis “Denny” Owens, 88, passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 14, 2020.

Juan Fernando Polledo, 90

We share the sad news that our father, Juan Fernando Polledo, 90, passed away on Oct.12, 2020, at his home in Kalispell.

Expanded manufacturing program opens doors for local brewers

For a lot of people, manufacturing conjures images of operating heavy machinery inside bustling factories.

New film features longtime ranger Doug Follett

Four filmmakers from Chapman University recently completed a documentary on Doug Follett — the longtime Glacier National Park interpretative ranger and Columbia Falls school teacher.

Hospitals, Health Department need our help

As the number of COVID-19 cases in Montana keeps climbing with no clear path yet to quelling the pandemic, the state and many hot-spot counties — Flathead County included — find themselves in what top medical officials are now calling “a public health crisis.”

Elaine Redalen Olson, 85

Elaine Redalen Olson passed away Oct. 12, 2020, at the age of 85 in Kalispell after living an active life dedicated to family, community service, education, and treasure hunting.

Fredrick Allen Holmes, 70

Fredrick Allen Holmes died Oct. 5, 2020, in Arizona.

Wolfpack turns corner on Billings West boys

The Glacier boys had the lead, then they lost it, and then they won their State AA quarterfinal soccer game in the most unlikely fashion Saturday: With a corner kick.

Brisendine bomb seals Glacier girls’ win

Legends Stadium has its name for a reason, and to the list we might someday add the likes of Glacier midfielder Reagan Brisendine.

Wildkat harriers best in field at Western A Fall Classic

There was some cold weather and hot times Saturday at Rebecca Farm, where Columbia Falls won the girls’ team title at the Western A Fall Classic cross country meet.

PHOTOS: Wolfpack boys, girls advance past Billings West, Skyview

Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack boys' and girls' Class AA quarterfinal round matchups with Billings West and Billings Skyview at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Saturday, Oct. 17. The Glacier boys won 3-2 in overtime against Billings West and the girls advanced with a 3-0 win over Billings Skyview.

C-Falls boys, girls advance to semifinals

Columbia Falls' boys and girls soccer teams both advanced to the Class A semifinals with wins on Saturday

Bulldog boys keep marching, beat Lone Peak

Five goals. That’s the grand total allowed by the Whitefish Bulldogs all season. Saturday was no exception, as the Bulldogs won 3-0 over the Lone Peak Bighorns in a Class A quarterfinal game.

Barron scores four as Bulldogs park Livingston

Emma Barron scored four goals as the Whitefish Bulldogs beat the Livingston Rangers 5-1 in a Class A quarterfinal game, and coach Roland Benedict was content to watch the show.

Bears find pre-hibernation meals in C-Falls

law roundup

Election mail bag Oct. 17

Election mail bag Oct. 17

The Last Best Place is on the ballot

With the most crucial Election Day in recent memory less than a month away, I encourage my fellow Montanans to cast their votes with the following questions in mind.

Montana judge blocks actions by Trump's former land boss

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A month after ousting the Trump administration's public lands boss for being in the post unlawfully, a Montana judge on Friday blocked three land-use plans that would have opened most U.S.-owned lands in the state to energy development.

Montana prison on lockdown after coronavirus outbreak

MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana State Prison has locked down due to an outbreak of the coronavirus in the facility, the state Department of Corrections said.

Lawrence Park neighbors concerned about drug use among transients

When Ben Long and his neighbor saw men coming out of the wooded swampy area behind their homes near Lawrence Park last week they were not surprised.

Trial begins Monday for man accused of assaulting elderly woman

A Polson man charged with severely beating and choking an elderly wheelchair-bound woman at a group home in February is set to go on trial next week.

Ronan woman jailed for role in fiery crash

A Ronan woman accused of driving drunk in a fiery crash on U.S. 93 which nearly took the life of a man is behind bars in Lake County.

Legals for October, 17 2020

Kalispell Public Schools: District working through logistics of pandemic, quarantining

When countywide cases of COVID-19 spiked in September, Kalispell Public Schools started to experience a decline in cases, but the trend isn’t lasting.

Jon David Hunt, 62

Jon D. Hunt, 62, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020.

Rendina, Pack put away stubborn Flathead

Midway through the third quarter a slumbering Flathead offense came awake, and Friday’s crosstown football battle at Legends Stadium had the makings of a photo finish.

Frenchtown scores late to knock off C-Falls; Bigfork’s Benn scores 5 TDs

Frenchtown quarterback Wyatt Hayes hit Tel Arthur with his fourth touchdown pass with 3:00 left Friday to lead the Broncs past Columbia Falls 28-21 in a key Western A football game.

PHOTOS: Glacier cruises to 35-14 crosstown victory

Photos from crosstown football as Glacier ran away with a 35-14 win over Flathead in Class AA action at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Friday, Oct. 16.

C-Falls goes on the road for first round

Niels Getts is in a familiar situation once again. When the Columbia Falls Wildcats kick off in Frenchtown today, he’ll be in goal, not on the field.

Whitefish takes overdog status into first round

The Whitefish soccer teams head to Smith Fields today with wins on their minds and quite possibly brooms in their hands.

Wolfpack hosts pair of home games for Class AA quarterfinals

Some Kalispell residents might have arrived home Wednesday evening to find the leaves in their yards neatly raked. Mystery solved: It was courtesy of Ryan Billiett and the Glacier Wolfpack boys soccer team. Billiett is always one for variety, so instead of another hard practice, he decided to take things off the pitch for the day.

Nicolai Siemens, 94

Nicolai Siemens, 94, of Kila, passed away on Oct. 7, 2020, at his home with his family by his side.

Legals for October, 16 2020

Caregiver finds niche in emergency placement foster system

Amy Ream has had it in her heart to take care of displaced children ever since she was first able to read the “Anne of Green Gables'' and “Elizabeth Gail” novels she was drawn to as a child growing up in Columbia Falls.

Bigfork meth trafficker gets 15 years in federal prison

Bigfork meth trafficker gets 15 years in federal prison

Thieves targeting unlocked cars in C-Falls

law roundup

Donald Verner Bodeen

Donald Verner Bodeen, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away at home peacefully on Oct. 11, 2020.

Glacier’s Becker striking gold on the pitch

When it comes to flying... under the radar, Madison Becker likes it better that way.

Health Board backs away from tighter COVID restrictions

In a split 5-3 vote Thursday, the Flathead City-County Board of Health opted to scrap plans for a Health Officer Order that would have put more restrictions on the size of public gatherings in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Flathead County.

Gov. calls for medical workers as hospitals fill up

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock on Thursday issued an urgent call for medical workers to join the fight against COVID-19 as hospitals across the state are on the verge of being overwhelmed by a recent surge in coronavirus infections

First snowfall of season on tap for Flathead Valley

Valley residents could be shoveling snow for the first time this season as a winter weather system bears down on the region this weekend.

Planning Board rejects housing project east of Kalispell

The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday rejected an application for a controversial housing development east of Kalispell.

Postal Service agrees to reverse service changes

HELENA (AP) — The U.S. Postal Service agreed Wednesday to reverse changes that slowed mail service nationwide, settling a lawsuit filed by Montana Gov. Steve Bullock during a pandemic that is expected to force many more people to vote by mail.

Ascent program eyes private donations to continue

Grant funding to end for program that helps struggling students

For the past three years, the Ascent program at Glacier High School has helped students climb to adulthood, helping them build maturity along the way to graduation.

Man accused of threatening woman with knife in Woodland Park

A Flathead Valley man with a violent criminal past pleaded not guilty to assault with a weapon Tuesday morning in Flathead County District Court. Michael Anthony Mejak, 45, appeared telephonically to enter his plea.

Have some Halloween fun, but play it safe

Holiday activities reshaped amid pandemic

Holidays happen even amid a pandemic and Halloween is no exception.

Kenneth 'Kenny' Clyde Luntsford, 82

Kenneth “Kenny” Clyde Luntsford, 82, passed away in his home from heart failure on Oct. 10, 2020.

Jay Waterbury, 85

Jay Waterbury, 85, passed away Oct. 9, 2020, at is home.

MSU poll shows major races close in Montana

BOZEMAN – Montana State University on Wednesday released the results of its Treasure State poll weighing Montana attitudes for the 2020 general election set for Nov 3.

October Fishing

As we move deeper into autumn, with rapidly dropping water temperatures and much shorter daylight hours, the evidence of our changing world surrounds us, quite visually in fact.

First day of the hunt

Traveling and resting were over, it was time to hunt! Our guides asked us if we were excited and we all said we were. But our enthusiasm may have been dulled by the hour of the day or the fact that Bob was a young 74, Butch was a very young 72 and I was an old 51.

Lori Emily Frescas, 47

Lori Emily Frescas, 47, passed away peacefully in her sleep due to natural causes on Oct. 10, 2020, at her home in Kalispell.

Woman doesn’t know who ‘they’ are

law roundup

Letters to the editor Oct. 15

Letters to the editor Oct. 15

Legals for October, 15 2020

Prep standings, leaders for Oct. 15

SOCCER Standings, Northern A Boys: Whitefish 7-0-1 10-0-1

Flathead, Glacier meet for 14th time in crosstown clash

The 14th crosstown football battle between Flathead and Glacier may not look awesome on paper, but these games are less predictable than others under the Friday Night Lights.

Alpine sections of Sun Road close for season

Due to continued winter weather, the alpine sections of the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park will remain closed for the season.

Transient charged with allegedly using bear spray on baby

A transient man is behind bars after he allegedly used bear spray on a family of four during a recent incident at a Kalispell residence.

Senate high stakes spur astronomical spending in Montana

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Political groups fighting for control of the U.S. Senate have poured more than $118 million into the contest between Montana's Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock and Republican incumbent Steve Daines, a record shattering figure for the sparsely-populated state that dwarfs spending on a per-voter basis in all other Senate battleground states.

Montana man sentenced to 100 years after double killing

MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — A 29-year-old Montana man was sentenced to 100 years in prison in the killing of two people during an armed, drug-related confrontation in 2018.

Legals for October, 14 2020

Byron Reese Crow, 52

Byron Reese Crow, 52, passed away on Oct. 6, 2020.

Ross Oertel Armstrong, 96

Ross departed on his final fishing trip Oct. 6, 2020.

Kefra B. Taylor, 42

Kefra B. Taylor, 42, of Whitefish, went out on his own terms in a blaze of glory riding the Harley he loved on Oct. 8, 2020.

Montana man pleads guilty to killing girlfriend in 2018

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — A southwest Montana man has pleaded guilty to killing his girlfriend in 2018, reportedly during a fight after they had used meth and alcohol, court records said.

Flathead man with long rap sheet pleads to gun assault

When Conor Larkin McLean was just 18 years old, he pleaded guilty to felony witness tampering in Flathead County District Court in 2001.

Jay Waterbury, 85

Jay Waterbury, 85, passed away at is home.

Bigfork teen to become one of nation’s first female Eagle Scouts

Bigfork teen Gabrielle Thorsen is making history as she is set to become one of the nation’s first female Eagle Scouts – a prestigious achievement attained by some of the country’s most noteworthy figures.

Pop-up football game dazzles in Polson

Of all the numbers that jumped out of last week’s pop-up football game between Bigfork and Polson, the best might be the 300 or so minutes it took to pull it together, after Polson announced its homecoming game against Stevensville was canceled.

Raymond L. Strash, 87

Raymond L. Strash left us to be with his wife Loretta on Oct. 8, 2020.

Wolfpack boys, Bravettes win Glacier Invite

Sam Ells lowered his personal record Wednesday while leading the Glacier Wolfpack to the team win at its own Glacier Invite cross country meet at Rebecca Farm.

Daines, Bullock contrast on gun rights

Falkor Defense owner Jason Sonju is nervous about how the upcoming election will affect his Kalispell-based company.

Attitude doesn’t get campers far

Two men chose the wrong parking lot to camp out in, when a property manager allegedly asked them to pack up their tents and leave, but instead, they gave the manager an attitude, so he asked Kalispell Police Department to banish them from a swath of property and stores along U.S. 93 North.

Voters once again asked to financially support 911 center

For the third time in six years, Flathead County voters are being asked to support a ballot measure to help fund the ongoing need for equipment upgrades at the Flathead Emergency Communications Center.

Pack cruises to crosstown volleyball win

Matches are at a premium for Class AA teams and so are wins, so Glacier Wolfpack volleyball coach Christy Harkins was happy to see her team make short work of Tuesday’s crosstown battle.

Bravettes end season with loss to Hellgate

The Flathead Bravettes’ soccer season ended at rainy Rattlesnake Fields Tuesday, with a 5-1 loss to Missoula Hellgate in the first round of the Class AA playoffs.

Glacier girls, boys splash into next round of playoffs

The Glacier Wolfpack girls soccer team didn’t allow the rainy weather to stop them from advancing to the Class AA quarterfinals by beating Helena Capital 6-0 at Legends Field on Tuesday.

Bullock offers resources for COVID mandate enforcement

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Gov. Steve Bullock announced Tuesday he would provide resources to local counties to increase enforcement of coronavirus related restrictions, including a statewide mask mandate, as Montana experiences one of the largest COVID-19 case outbreaks in the nation.

MHSA pushes start of winter sports back to January

HELENA – The Montana High School Association decided Tuesday to move the start of winter sports for state high schools into January, with practices beginning Dec. 7.

Some Yellowstone National Park lodging canceled for winter

JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. (AP) — There will be no guest lodging at Yellowstone National Park's largest concessionaire for the winter due to the coronavirus pandemic, officials said.

Kalispell’s ‘bat man’ has anger issues

A driver on Airport Road alleged a man brake-checked them and waved them to go around, but then sped up, passing them and threw a bat at their truck, denting the fender.

Billings police officers shoot, kill man during altercation

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A man died of gunshot wounds he suffered while Billings police officers were trying to take him into custody, police said Tuesday.

Legals for October, 13 2020

No limit for Skye

Thompson leads Bravettes into AA soccer playoffs

Skyleigh Thompson’s 56 career goals at Flathead have earned her a soccer scholarship to the University of Montana.

Jamie Marie Enders, 57

Jamie Marie Enders, 57, passed away peacefully Sept. 28, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center after a traumatic brain injury.

Homicide suspect is employee of Abbie Shelter

A woman accused of murder in Sanders County is an employee of the Abbie Shelter, a Kalispell-based neighborhood domestic and sexual violence service provider.

Carolyn A. Tudor, 84

Our beautiful and loving mother and grandmother, Carolyn A. Tudor, of Kalispell, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center after a short battle with brain cancer.

Woman identified in fatal crash in Kalispell

Authorities have released the name of a woman who died in a fatal traffic crash last week in Kalispell.

Bullock headlines Dems’ ‘drive-in’ rally in Kalispell

The impact of the surging COVID-19 pandemic was on display Sunday as Montana Democratic candidates from the top of the ballot down gathered in Kalispell for a “drive-in” political rally.

Kalispell Public Schools: Voters will decide $500,000 high school levy request

With general election ballots now mailed out, taxpayers living in the Kalispell Public Schools high school district are reminded to vote on a $500,000 general fund levy issue.

COVID stalks Libby as asbestos health problems persist

LIBBY — Frank Fahland has spent most days since the pandemic began at the site of his dream house, working to finish a 15-year labor of love while keeping away from town and the people closest to him.

New C-Falls school opens in response to pandemic

A new child-care education program called Riverside Learning Camp is opening in Columbia Falls later this month.

Plans emerge to reopen Kalispell MudMan; wage claims still pending

It’s been about six months since MudMan Burgers in Columbia Falls reopened to the public, and now the Flathead Valley burger chain is poised to relaunch its Kalispell location as well.

Tighter restrictions proposed as Flathead COVID numbers climb

In response to a dramatic increase in Flathead County COVID-19 cases over the past two weeks, the county Board of Health on Thursday will consider a proposal for tighter restrictions for crowd sizes at bars, restaurants, churches and other social gatherings if case numbers continue to rise.

Savanna's Act: Trump inks law addressing missing, murdered Native Americans

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — President Donald Trump on Saturday signed a bill named for a Fargo murder victim to address cases of missing and murdered Native Americans.

Seniors key to Glacier's success

Both Wolfpack teams in action Tuesday

Caller insists their apartment exists

Someone reportedly called Kalispell Police Department complaining that a delivery service told them their apartment didn’t exist, but that the restaurant they ordered from had verified the address.

Kalispell council to hear progress report on transportation plan

The Kalispell City Council turns its attention to an update of the city’s transportation plan during a virtual work session today.

Vandalism a recurring problem at C-Falls grandstands

Glacier Babe Ruth has rising concerns about vandalism at the Sapa-Johnsrud field grandstands in Columbia Falls.

A life of learning: 4-H Extension agent spends 50 years in program

Nori Pearce has spent the better part of 50 years deeply ingrained in the world of 4-H, a journey that began with her as a young member and eventually evolved into a career.

Whitefish Middle School goes fully remote, hybrid model of instruction extended

Whitefish Middle School moves to fully remote instruction starting Monday due to an increase in COVID-19 cases.

FVCC trades program creates conduit to local manufacturers

Manufacturing isn’t all about making products. It’s also about the people who make them.

Whitefish treehouses make Vrbo's Top 25 list

The Ponderosa Chalet at Snow Bear Chalets on Big Mountain has been selected as one of Vrbo’s 25 all-time favorite properties in the world.

Darvin D. Struck, 69

Darvin D. Struck passed away peacefully Sept. 25, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center from an accident experienced at home.

Attacks on Turning Point unfounded

As a 15-year-old student and someone who loves America, I am concerned that the media and a society that is more focused on being politically correct than being truthful are radicalizing our impressionable youth. These ideas will have a calamitous effect on our upcoming generations.

Masks, Constitutional rights and personal choices

This letter is in response to several others regarding mask-wearing, Constitutional rights, and personal choices. They all make good points, but I fear those views are not taking into consideration what we do know and, more importantly, what we don’t know, about Covid-19 disease.

Carolyn A. Tudor, 84

Our beautiful and loving mother and grandmother, Carolyn A. Tudor, of Kalispell, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center after a short battle with brain cancer.

Plans Pendley approved must now be revoked

On September 26, William Perry Pendley was officially removed as acting director of the Bureau of Land Management. Good riddance.

Montana has dive team to search for aquatic invasive species

BILLINGS (AP) — Aquatic invasive species are like the COVID-19 of streams and lakes. It takes only one watercraft to become a super spreader, introducing an invader like Eurasian watermilfoil or zebra mussels to a waterway.

Man collects rocks in his socks

A shirtless man wearing a hockey mask was allegedly walking around the back of a building and picking up rocks that he dropped into his socks.

As COVID surges, health officials try to balance public buy-in with stricter measures

Montana has set multiple new records for COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the past week, and now ranks among the top states in the nation in daily new cases per capita.

Delbert Ivey, 84

Delbert Ivey, of Bigfork, passed away Oct. 1, 2020, at the age of 84 due to complications of Crohn's disease.

Marvin Dwain Stidmon, 78

Marvin Dwain Stidmon, 78, passed away on Oct. 3, 2020, at his home in Kalispell.

John Thomas Craig, 65

John Thomas Craig, 65, passed away of cardiac arrest on Aug. 3, 2020, in Lacey, Washington.

KittyMOM’s Rescue founder goes the distance to save cats

The stacks of cat carriers nearly touch the ceiling in Darcy Albert’s garage.

Gateway 2 Miracles campaign worthy of support

Northwest Montana United Way recently launched the first phase of a new capital campaign and it’s worthy of your support.

Past state superintendents endorse Melissa Romano

For 28 years, we had the great honor of serving Montana as Superintendents of Public Instruction.

NW Montana grizzlies featured on '60 Minutes' tonight

The growing number of interactions between Montana’s grizzly bears and their human neighbors will be the subject of a report on “60 Minutes” tonight, Oct. 11.

Daines Key to Helping President Trump Redefine the Judicial Frontier

There is no greater supporter of President Trump’s transformation of the nation’s judiciary than Steve Daines.

Montanans should be wary of efforts to legalize recreational marijuana

The quality of life valued by Montanans will be dramatically diminished if recreational marijuana becomes legal in our state.

Legals for October, 11 2020

Pot proposition: Voters to decide whether to legalize recreational marijuana

In Montana, medical marijuana was legalized in 2004 through a ballot initiative.

NVH August 2020 births

Liam Augustus Rendoni, son of Karlea Jones and Jordan Rendoni of Kalispell, was born Aug. 21, 2020, at North Valley Hospital.

Thompson flurry helps Flathead salvage soccer split

Senior Day started cool and ended up blustery with a blizzard of Skyleigh Thompson goals, while Flathead’s soccer teams split a doubleheader against Butte at the Kidsports Complex.

Flathead netters go 5 sets, get first win

Savannah Sterck had 16 kills, 17 digs and three aces to help Flathead edge Missoula Big Sky in five sets for its first volleyball victory of the season Saturday.

Robison scores 3, Wildkats beat Libby 6-0

Class A leading scorer Maddie Robison scored a hat trick for the Columbia Falls Wildkats in a 6-0 Northern A soccer win over the Bigfork Valkryies on Saturday, marking the end of the regular season.

C-Falls girls top field at preview meet; Whitefish boys place second

On a blustery day in Kalispell, the Columbia Falls Wildkats raced to a first place team finish in the state preview cross country meet at Rebecca Farm on Saturday.

Columbia Falls shuts out Blue Devils

Mason Peters threw for 355 yards and three touchdowns Friday to lead Columbia Falls over Corvallis 32-0 in a Western A football contest.

Daines, Bullock clash over pandemic, Supreme Court in debate

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. Steve Daines and his Democratic opponent, Gov. Steve Bullock, clashed over the response to the pandemic and the U.S. Supreme Court vacancy in the last debate of Montana's U.S. Senate race.

PHOTOS: Flathead soccer splits with Butte

Photos from Flathead vs. Butte in Class AA high school boys and girls soccer at Kidsports Complex in Kalispell on Saturday, Oct. 10. The Bulldog boys took home a 1-0 win over the Braves while the Bravettes notched a 6-0 win in the girls' game.

Pendley says he's still on the job as acting director of BLM

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — William Perry Pendley wants Wyoming to know that he's still on the job as the nation's acting head of public lands.

US seeks mining withdrawal of polluted Montana site

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — U.S. officials in Montana have proposed withdrawing 2,600 acres of a degraded gold mining area to prevent additional mining and protect restoration work.

Maverick's Army: Community rallies to support Kila boy with rare disorder

After months of intensive treatment, 8-year-old Maverick Bench of Kila is right back where he was nearly four months ago — square one.

Election mail bag Oct. 10

Election mail bag Oct. 10

Lakeside woman accused of murdering ex-husband

A Lakeside woman has been charged with deliberate homicide in the alleged shooting death of her ex-husband in Paradise Thursday evening.

Clothes thief's act caught on camera

A man called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report someone stole all his clothes at the laundry the previous night.

Big turnout reported for annual flu clinic

Nearly 1,200 individuals received the influenza vaccine during this year’s annual flu clinic put on by the Flathead City-County Health Department Wednesday at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

A reminder that history does repeat itself

Like many of our senior citizens, I am worried about the world we are leaving behind for our children and grand children. As I watch the rage and violence on our city streets, nightly on TV, I see mostly young people, black and white. This saddens me because I am reminded that history does repeat itself. Will we learn from history?

Coram utility district gets federal funding for improvements

The Coram County Water and Sewer District will soon be making several improvements thanks to the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program.

Investigators have new leads in Sanders County cold-case murder

Western Montana law enforcement officials said a joint investigation into the murder of a Sander County man has developed new leads.

Big-play Bulldogs too much for Flathead

Helena beats Glacier in battle of unbeatens

The Flathead football team scored a couple touchdowns and unleashed a good-looking outside zone play Friday, but it was the Butte Bulldogs that came up with most of the big plays.

Glacier spikes Big Sky in 4

Kynzie Mohl had 18 kills, Emma Anderson added 16 and that helped Glacier past Missoula Big Sky in four sets in Western AA volleyball action Thursday.

Benn, Bigfork beat Class A Polson in ad hoc meeting

Cormac Benn rushed for five touchdowns as the Class B Bigfork Vikings beat Class A opponent Polson Pirates 54-40 on Friday.

Glacier girls, boys soccer finish regular season by blanking Butte

The Glacier Wolfpack girls soccer team finished up the regular season in style, breezing past the Butte Bulldogs 6-0 on Friday.

Flathead girls 2nd at Helena 7 of 7

The conditions weren’t perfect but the Flathead girls made the best of them Thursday, finishing second at annual Seven of Seven Meet Bill Roberts Golf Course.

PHOTOS: Flathead falls to Butte, 42-13

Photos from Flathead vs. Butte as the Braves fell 42-13 to the Bulldogs in Class AA high school football at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Friday, Oct. 9.

County jail gets first COVID-19 case

An inmate at the Flathead County Detention Center has tested for COVID-19.

Man charged with deliberate homicide in Hot Springs death

A Hot Springs man has been charged with deliberate homicide in the alleged beating death of another man on Wednesday.

Winter weather temporarily closes Glacier's Sun Road

Glacier National Park's Going-to-the Sun Road temporarily closed between Avalanche Creek and Rising Sun Friday evening due to inclement weather forecasted.

Montana coronavirus death toll rises to over 200

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana reported more than 700 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Friday and has topped 200 deaths since the pandemic began in mid-March. An increasing number of cases in the state's most populous county likely means residents there will be facing more restrictions to stop the spread of the respiratory virus.

Child, 3, burned in fall in Yellowstone thermal feature

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — A 3-year-old child was burned in a thermal feature in Yellowstone National Park.

Mobile medical unit expands to Hungry Horse

Clear Choice Clinic, based in Kalispell, has expanded its Mobile Medical Unit to include service in Hungry Horse, in addition to its existing mobile service in Browning and Eureka.

Town Pump donating $750,000 for food banks statewide

With demand for food bank services surging in Montana during the pandemic, the Town Pump Charitable Foundation is matching $750,000 in contributions during its 19th annual fundraising campaign for food banks across Montana, including Flathead Food Bank and Northwest Montana Veterans Food Pantry in Kalispell.

Man in drag seeks drinking pals

1009 law roundup

General election ballots to be mailed today

Ballots for the Nov. 3 general election will be mailed today, the Flathead County Election Department said.

Legals for October, 9 2020

Glacier heads to Helena for marquee AA matchup

Glacier and Helena High have eight wins between them, and will combine for the marquee Class AA football game of the week in Helena – with apologies to the venerable Hellgate-Sentinel game down at Washington-Grizzly Stadium. At Legends Stadium, Flathead will look for its first win against a Butte team that is coming off its first victory, at Helena Capital, last week.

Whitefish boys blank Polson; Hellgate sweeps Glacier

The Whitefish Bulldogs boys soccer team kept on rolling with a 6-0 Northern A win over the Polson Pirates at Smith Fields on Thursday.

Wildkats sweep Loggers, now 10-0

Lauren Falkner threw down 14 kills in unbeaten Columbia Falls’ three-set win over Libby in Northwestern A volleyball Thursday.

As COVID-19 cases climb, commissioners say mask wearing should be a choice

Two additional COVID-19-related deaths were confirmed on Thursday, bringing the county’s total to 23 fatalities, 15 of which are associated with residential care facilities.

Daines calls for deeper probe into COVID outbreak at Whitefish Care

In a letter sent to the head of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services on Thursday, Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., called for a more thorough investigation into a recent COVID-19 outbreak at Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center that killed 13 residents and infected dozens more.

U.S. officials: Climate change not a threat to rare wolverine

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — U.S. wildlife officials are withdrawing proposed protections for the snow-loving wolverine after determining the rare and elusive predator is not as threatened by climate change as once thought. Details on the decision were obtained by The Associated Press in advance of an announcement Thursday.

Final effort fails to block Montana's mailed ballots

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A final effort to block most Montana counties from mailing general election ballots to active voters was denied Thursday, a day before the ballots are to be mailed.

Bigfork man accused of sexually assaulting teen

A Bigfork man is facing charges he sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl numerous times over a one-year period.

Opening day is nearly here!

The biggest day of hunting season is a little more than two weeks away

Man with machete chases driver

A man wearing a white hoodie and black gloves and carrying a machete allegedly started running after someone who was driving by. The driver told the Kalispell Police Department they were concerned the machete-wielding man would go after people — who weren’t in vehicles.

Valley prep standings and statistics

Soccer standings, statistical leaders for soccer, football and volleyball

Letters to the editor Oct. 8

Letters to the editor Oct. 8

Shirley B. Abraham, 86

Shirley Beverly Carlson was born Sept. 20, 1934, in Rocklake, North Dakota, to Florence (Hogenson) and Anton Carlson.

A long ride into camp

The ride into the ‘Bob’ began early Sunday morning at Owl Creek Packer’s Roost.

North Fork committee scraps zoning appeal

The North Fork Land Use Advisory Committee has withdrawn an appeal it had submitted regarding recent interpretations of North Fork zoning regulations that were made by planning and zoning officials.

Dillon James Moore, 25

Dillon James Moore, 25, passed away on Oct.1, 2020, of a pulmonary embolism at his home in Kalispell.

WTC’s ‘Sylvia’ is hilarious and heart-warming

WTC’s ‘Sylvia’ is hilarious and heart-warming

Legals for October, 8 2020

Weekly Calendar

Weekly events

Bullock says no new statewide mandates as case tally rises

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana health officials reported 733 new cases of COVID-19 Wednesday, again shattering the record for daily cases. The previous record, set on Tuesday, stood at 504 cases.

Fire crews work to protect ranches near Marion

Fire crews from Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation and local fire departments worked to contain a wildfire burning near some ranches and an addiction treatment center west of Kalispell.

Body of missing man found near Marias Pass

The body of a man who went missing two weeks ago near Marias Pass has been found.

Montana again shatters daily COVID case record

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana health officials reported 733 new cases of COVID-19 Wednesday, again shattering the record for daily cases. The previous record, set on Tuesday, stood at 504 cases.

Wildfire near Elmo grows to 470 acres

Fire crews were working to suppress a grass fire that began Wednesday evening 4 miles west of Elmo

Cooney, Gianforte stick to party lines in final debate

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Disagreements between gubernatorial candidates Republican Greg Gianforte and Democrat Mike Cooney were front and center Tuesday during the second and final debate of the race.

Donald R. Martinus, 81

Donald R. Martinus went to be with the Lord when he passed suddenly, but peacefully at home on Sept. 23, 2020.

The Triple Threat

Columbia Falls' Getts is all over the field - or the pitch

Niels Getts has the reputation of being the type of guy you call on when you’re in a bind.

Jeanette Johnsrud, 78

Jeanette Johnsrud of Kalispell passed away on Oct. 1, 2020, at the age of 78.

Kalispell finalizes bird feeding ban

The Kalispell City Council officially outlawed feeding wildfowl in city parks during a virtual meeting Monday evening.

That was a week; the kids can play

It was quite a week last week, and that was before I found myself witness to a birthday party/dart tournament that chased me from my favorite table in Missoula – well before that party ended in fisticuffs.

Taste test reveals suspicious substance is salt

A man discovered a discarded backpack and turned it into the Columbia Falls Police Department.

Carl Banik

On Oct. 3, 2020, Carl Banik lost his 10-year battle with heart failure peacefully at home surrounded by the wife he idolized and the daughters he adored.

Both political parties seeing upswing in sign thievery

Echo Lake resident Bryan Green stayed by his front window Sunday evening, keeping a close eye on his front yard.

SD 3: Candidates zero in on state revenue, taxes

Senate District 3 race

C-Falls, Whitefish seek input on transportation plans

The cities of Columbia Falls and Whitefish are both in the throes of looking at transportation plans and have scheduled public listening sessions this month.

Legals for October, 7 2020

Sanderson selected 5th overall in NHL draft

Whitefish native Jake Sanderson was drafted fifth overall Tuesday in the NHL Entry Draft by the Ottawa Senators.

Bravettes blank Hellgate

Tessa Smith scored the only goal for the Flathead Bravettes in a 1-0 Western AA win over Missoula Hellgate on Tuesday, snapping a two-game losing streak.

Columbia Falls soccer sweeps Libby on Senior Night, both win 9-0

Kate Hatfield scored a goal on Senior Night and the Columbia Falls Wildkats romped to a 9-0 win over Libby in Northern A girls soccer Tuesday.

Crews battle wildfire near Marion

State fire crews were called to a wildfire at Hubbart Reservoir south of Marion on Tuesday.

Flathead County COVID-19 numbers surging

Tuesday was record day with 124 positive cases

Local health-care officials are urging the public to practice aggressive public health safety measures as COVID-19 cases in Flathead County continue to explode, contributing significantly to the area’s hospitalization numbers and COVID-19-related fatalities.

Wildlife officials searching for orphaned bear cubs in Whitefish area

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is asking residents in and around Whitefish to share any information about the location of three orphaned black bear cubs that were last seen near downtown Whitefish.

9th Circuit won't block MT counties from mailing ballots

HELEN, Mont. (AP) — A federal appeals court on Tuesday denied a request for an emergency injunction to block most Montana counties from mailing ballots to active voters.

Lakeside-Somers Chamber cancels banquet

The Lakeside-Somers Chamber of Commerce has made the decision to cancel this year’s Captain’s Banquet, which was set for this Thursday, Oct. 8, due to the increased number of cases of COVID-19 throughout Lakeside and Somers.

Resort sets record for winter pass sales

Whitefish Mountain Resort hit a new high mark for winter season pass sales, topping 12,500 for the first time.

HD 10: Candidates weigh in on CARES Act spending, taxes

The House District 5 race sets up incumbent Democrat Dave Fern against Republican challenger Catherine Owens for the opportunity to represent residents of the Whitefish area.

Sculptures moved for Montana Heritage Center construction

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Historical Society have relocated two sculptures ahead of construction on the first phase of the Montana Heritage Center project in Helena near the Montana State Capitol building.

Governor asks court to block actions by federal land boss

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — The governor of Montana on Monday asked a judge to block three sweeping land use plans that would open most U.S.-owned lands in the state to energy development, saying the documents were invalidated when the Trump administration's public lands boss was removed for being in the post unlawfully.

Legals for October, 6 2020

Darlene Hill, 84

Darlene Hill, 84, passed away at her home Sept. 28, 2020, in Bigfork, two days before her birthday.

Annual flu clinic set Wednesday at fairgrounds

The Flathead City-County Health Department’s annual influenza clinic will take place Wednesday at the Flathead County Fairgrounds Trade Center from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Volunteers needed for cross country championships

Volunteers are needed to help with the State Cross Country meet planned for Oct. 23-24 at Rebecca Farm.

Bigfork man returns home to open new church in the Flathead

Luke Taylor is bringing his vision for worshipping God to life in the Flathead Valley.

Annual ski swap will take COVID precautions

The annual Big Mountain Ski Club ski swap and sale will take place this year with precautions in place related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Area Golf: Cabinet View, Polson Bay

2020 Clam Chowder Tournament, Oct. 4, Cabinet View Golf Club, Libby. Gross - 1, Wayne Haines, 72;

United Way launches $4.2M campaign to help Gateway Center, partners

In an effort to bring more financial stability to the Gateway Community Center in Kalispell, Northwest Montana United Way recently launched the first phase of a new capital campaign, Gateway 2 Miracles.

Flathead Lake: September real estate sales may be highest in a decade

Real estate sales on Flathead Lake continued to surge to new highs throughout September.

Polson woman dies from crash injuries

A Polson woman died following a two-vehicle crash Wednesday morning on U.S. 93 near Pablo Family Foods.

Into the 'Bob' by horseback

I knew some friends in Pennsylvania who took guided hunts in various locales, chasing elk and moose. But for me, I’ve always been a do-it-yourselfer.

Man with airsoft gun reported at park

A man wearing a black vest with metal studs apparently brandished an Airsoft gun and an American flag with a peace sign on it in front of the Kalispell Veterans Memorial.

One dead following Monday crash in Kalispell

Authorities are investigating a fatal traffic accident that occurred Monday morning in Kalispell.

Trump says he's leaving hospital for White House, feels good

BETHESDA, Md. (AP) — President Donald Trump said Monday he's leaving the military hospital where he has been treated for COVID-19 and will continue his recovery at the White House. He said he's feeling good and the nation should not be afraid of the virus that has killed more than 209,000 Americans.

Billings man walking dog shot to death during confrontation

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A man was shot to death during a confrontation while he was walking his dog in his neighborhood, police in Billings said.

County rescinds permit for Whistlestop Retreat on Lake Five

The Flathead County Commissioners on Sept. 30 voted to rescind a major land-use permit for the Whistlestop Retreat on Lake Five.

16 Yellowstone workers test positive for COVID in September

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — Yellowstone National Park officials say 16 employees tested positive for COVID-19 in September, marking a significant uptick in cases.

Masked driver points gun at people

A man wearing a hockey mask allegedly drove through a parking lot on Woodland Park Drive pointing a pistol out the window at people.

July-September births

Jesse Seeley, son of Scott Seelye and Tiffany Tow of Kalispell, was born Sept. 2, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

NVH August 2020 births

August 2020 North Valley Hospital births

Legals for October, 5 2020

Changes to multifamily zoning standards mulled by Whitefish council

Changes to Whitefish zoning regulations as they pertain to multifamily development standards will be considered by the Whitefish City Council tonight during an online meeting.

Letters to the editor Oct. 5

Letters to the editor Oct. 5

County undersheriff brings years of experience to new role

Flathead County Undersheriff Wayne DuBois has an abundance of energy and enthusiasm for his work.

Accidental arsonist repeatedly violates parole

Nearly 12 years after he accidentally set fire to an apartment complex on West Reserve Drive where several people lived, a former Flathead Valley man is back in custody after repeatedly violating his parole.

Man pleads not guilty to punching store manager

A Flathead Valley man accused of threatening a woman with brass knuckles earlier this year has landed back in trouble after he allegedly assaulted a grocery store manager.

Kalispell council poised to finalize bird-feeding ban

The Kalispell City Council will hold a virtual meeting tonight to consider officially adopting an ordinance against feeding ducks in city parks.

Construction underway for Whitefish underpass

Construction of the Baker Avenue pedestrian underpass in Whitefish began earlier this month.

Gianforte, Cooney focus on pandemic and economy in debate

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana gubernatorial candidates Republican Greg Gianforte and Democrat Mike Cooney focused on their approaches to the economy and their responses to the coronavirus pandemic in their first debate Saturday evening.

Letters to the editor Oct. 4

Letters to the editor Oct. 4

Pandemic, wildfires drive need for Nomad's mobile units

It’s been a tumultuous year, given a pandemic, massive wildfires and large-scale demonstrations, but one local company seems to have a solution for nearly every challenge that has emerged in the past few months.

Think water, drink water

Think water, drink water

Celebrating the Conrad legacy

Landmark mansion has connected Kalispell's history for 125 years

Kalispell’s landmark Conrad Mansion celebrated a milestone last month, crossing the threshold of its 125th year on Sept. 25.

SD 2: State budget, taxes are key issues in senate race

Both candidates in the Senate District 2 challenge have political experience — Democrat Kyle Waterman is a Kalispell City Council member and Republican Carl Glimm, the current House District 6 representative, has served four terms in the Montana Legislature.

Delbert Ivor Martin, 80

Delbert Ivor Martin, age 80, a 53-year resident of Columbia Falls, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 20, 2020 at his home.

Thank you letters

Thank you letters

The ties that bind: Three couples, all longtime friends, celebrate 60th wedding anniversaries

The stage was set for a night to remember as the couples arrived at the Whitefish home of Don and Diane Peterson on Wednesday evening.

Transparency standards needed for care facilities

Imagine arriving at a restaurant and finding a sign posted on the front door with a “D” rating, indicating the establishment “poses a significant risk to the public and immediate steps must be taken or closure proceedings will be implemented.”

Daniel J. Anderson, 71

Daniel J. Anderson of Columbia Falls passed away on Sept. 17, 2020, at home with his family, at the age of 71.

Corinne Marie (Carie) Ross, 66

Carie Ross, 66, passed away of natural causes at her residence in Kalispell on Sept. 24, 2020.

Montana reports 501 COVID-19 cases in new daily record

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Montana health officials said Saturday that 501 more people have tested positive for COVID-19, setting a new daily record.

Kalispell Regional Healthcare: Nurses union negotiations pick up steam

In recent weeks, yard signs have popped up throughout the Flathead Valley in support of the nurses union at Kalispell Regional Healthcare, displaying a variety of messages including “We Support KRH Nurses” and “KRH: Put Patients Before Profits.”

Man forgets driving wife’s vehicle

A man called Kalispell Police Department to report his truck stolen, saying he left the keys in the ignition. It wasn’t long before he called back, however, to say the truck was not stolen — he just forgot he was driving his wife’s car.

Fraud concerns delay thousands of unemployment claims

Thousands of Montanans are waiting to receive emergency government assistance as the Montana Department of Labor and Industry grapples with an onslaught of fraud attempts on the state’s Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program.

Legals for October, 4 2020

David Harvey Rickert, 82

David Harvey Rickert, 82, died in his sleep at home on the morning of Sept. 29, 2020.

Election mail bag Oct. 4

Election mail bag Oct. 4

Healthy Communities Require Healthy Choices

It was disappointing to hear Postmaster General Louis DeJoy tell House Oversight Committee members he’d instituted USPS changes to address a $9 billion loss.

Gianforte would reverse anti-job policies

I have had the privilege of serving Montanans for many years. I’ve worked with some great leaders, and I see another great leader about to emerge.

Gianforte’s blind eye to ethical concerns

Greg Gianforte’s campaign for governor should be flying an ethics caution flag.

Focus on improving current health care system

Local businesses and their employees are the lifeblood of Montana’s communities.

Christina Anne Vlieland, 58

Christina Anne Vlieland, 58, passed away on Sept. 26, 2020, in Hungry Horse.

Douglas Ross Ferree, 82

Douglas Ross Ferree, 82, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ells and Rumsey Eash win Flathead Quad crowns

Glacier’s Sam Ells and Flathead’s Lilli Rumsey Eash won individual titles while powerful Missoula Hellgate swept the team titles at the Flathead Quad cross country meet Saturday at Rebecca Farm.

Dawgs sweep C-Falls in clash of Class A’s finest

Once the Whitefish Bulldogs get going, it’s really hard to stop them. Just ask the Columbia Falls Wildcats, who lost 5-0 in a Northwestern A boys soccer game in a battle of undefeated teams at Smith Fields on Saturday.

Defunct corporations fined over Montana campaign violations

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A Montana judge has entered a $1.76 million judgement against two now-defunct corporations that were found to have made illegal contributions to more than a dozen Republican candidates seeking public office a decade ago.

PHOTOS: Bulldog boys, girls soccer claim wins over Columbia Falls

Photos from Whitefish vs. Columbia Falls boys and girls soccer at Smith Fields in Whitefish on Saturday, Oct. 3. The Bulldog boys and girls won, 5-0 and 2-1.

HD 10: Candidates differ on state spending, Medicaid expansion

Three-term incumbent Republican Rep. Mark Noland is facing off against Democratic challenger Jennifer Allen in the race to represent House District 10, which includes the southern edge of Kalispell, Bigfork and Swan Lake.

Legals for October, 3 2020

Kalispell nurse practitioner indicted in telemedicine fraud scheme

A Kalispell woman is accused of being involved in a telemedicine scheme to defraud Medicare of almost $10 million.

Olga. K. Schwarz, 94

Olga. K. Schwarz was born in Northhampton, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 30, 1925, to Wassyl and Kathryn Kotoris (Zakaroff).

Armed dad doesn't like hand-washing policy

An angry parent was apparently carrying a firearm and a knife on school property when he dropped his daughter off at school.

Board to hear appeal on North Fork zoning issue

The Flathead County Board of Adjustment on Tuesday will review an appeal filed by the North Fork Land Use Advisory Committee regarding recent interpretations by the county zoning administrator, including one that determined tents can possibly be considered a guest or rental cabin in the North Fork Zone.

New ski trails pay tribute to local legends

A few of Big Mountain’s local legends have received a tip of the hat on Whitefish Mountain Resort’s new trail map.

RE/MAX Glacier Country moves north after fire

Most businesses have faced their share of challenges during the past couple of months, but few have had a year quite as eventful as the team at RE/MAX Glacier Country.

Hamilton bounces Columbia Falls 35-7

Tyson Rostad threw for three touchdowns and Jaiden Klemundt threw for one TD and caught another to help unbeaten Hamilton past Columbia Falls in a key Western A game Friday.

Flathead’s Mercer, Glacier boys third at AA state golf

The fairways narrowed and not many putts for fell for the Glacier boys Friday, though the Wolfpack took home the third-place trophy from the State AA championships.

PHOTOS: Wildcats fall to Hamilton, 35-7

Photos from Columbia Falls 35-7 loss to Hamilton in Class A high school football at Satterthwaite Memorial Field in Columbia Falls on Friday, Oct. 2.

Trump, stricken by COVID-19, taken to military hospital

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump appeared in public Friday evening for the first time since being stricken by COVID-19, boarding his Marine One helicopter for a flight to a military hospital as the virus that has killed more than 205,000 Americans spread to the highest reaches of the U.S. government.

Feds seek info on 2 dead Montana grizzlies

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is providing rewards for information related to two dead grizzly bears, which are federally protected animals.

Montana health information exchange to launch later in year

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Montana Gov. Steve Bullock and a healthcare nonprofit announced a statewide health information exchange system that will launch later in the year.

Authorities ID Bigfork man killed after crashing into bus

A Flathead Valley man died Thursday after the vehicle he was driving slammed into the back of a school bus on U.S. 93 south of Whitefish in front of Hillside Church.

Two classes of fourth graders go remote in Bigfork due to COVID-19

Two classes of fourth graders go remote in Bigfork due to COVID-19.

Inadequate child care costs Montana $232M annually

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated child-care challenges for families in Montana, but the take-away from a new state study shows the care issues are not a symptom of the virus outbreak.

Legals for October, 2 2020

James Allen Senger, 75

On Sept. 7, 2020, James Allen Senger passed away in Whitefish.

HD 7: Health care, tax issues dominate three-way race

Three candidates are vying for the House District 7 seat that represents Kalispell, with each individual bringing to the table a unique set of experiences and backgrounds that extend well beyond the political realm.

Salvation Army starts red-kettle campaign early amid pandemic

For the first time in 130 years, the Salvation Army is starting its annual holiday fundraising campaign early across the country.

Wine and dine at FVCC’s Festival of Flavors

Fall flavors go well beyond the much-beloved pumpkin spice and this weekend, locals will have the opportunity to expand their palettes at the 13th annual Fall Festival of Flavors hosted by Flathead Valley Community College.

No explanation for lights, loud noise

A man was convinced someone had broken into his basement because there were lights on and he apparently heard a loud crash.

Local option tax among Kalispell's legislative priorities

The Kalispell City Council is readying its priorities for the upcoming session of the Montana Legislature, and a local option tax is one of the city’s priorities.

Rendina runs for 7 TDs against Hellgate

The Glacier Wolfpack didn’t have such an easy time down the stretch Thursday night, though the going certainly got easier for Jake Rendina. The junior running back set school records with 275 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground in the 4-0 Pack’s 54-38 win over Missoula Hellgate at MCPS Stadium.

Glacier girls shut out unbeaten Sentinel in Western AA soccer

Reagan Brisendine scored the only goal for the Glacier Wolfpack in a 1-0 shutout of unbeaten Missoula Sentinel in Western AA girls soccer at Glacier High School on Thursday.

Smith, Whitefish boys leaders at State A golf

Whitefish’s Billy Smith leads the boys field at the State A golf tournament in Butte after the first round. Smith shot par — a 70 at Butte Country Club on Thursday.

Glacier’s Avery tied for second after first round of AA state golf s’s

At the end of 18 holes Glacier’s boys were in a tight race for the title, putting four players in the 70s and sitting at 308 strokes, tied with Bozeman’s Gallatin High in second place. In first was Missoula Sentinel at 305. Bozeman High built a big lead in the girls’ race by holding the top three spots after one round. The Hawks came in at 321 to 355 for Billings West and 357 for Butte and Billings Senior. Glacier and Flathead were well off the pace, each at 398.

Judge blocks large parts of temporary work visa ban

SAN DIEGO (AP) — A judge on Thursday temporarily lifted a visa ban on a large number of work permits, undercutting a measure that the Trump administration says protects American jobs in a pandemic-wracked economy.

Montana reports record number of COVID cases in September

Nearly half of Montana’s confirmed COVID-19 cases were reported in September as the state continues to see record numbers of cases.

Russell Elementary earns National Blue Ribbon School honor

Russell Elementary School is among 367 National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2020, and was one of two Montana schools to make the list.

Montana presses to finish census, eyeing 2nd House seat

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A complete count of Montana's households could come with a big reward — a second seat in Congress and millions of federal dollars annually.

Election mail bag Oct. 1

Election mail bag Oct. 1

Fake money? Nope, that 100-spot is legit

Someone called the Kalispell Police Department to report a $100 counterfeit bill, but it was determined the bill was legitimate and returned to the person.