Ellington

Jake Rendina chooses West Point

Jake Rendina visited a remote area of New York state before Thanksgiving, and it seems he enjoyed the sights.

Big Sky notes: A rematch with a (non) rival

If Eastern Washington fans were expecting a Liberty Lake boat full of bulletin board material coming out of Missoula, they didn’t get it from the Montana Grizzlies’ Monday press conference.

US House candidate Zinke files financial disclosure report

Montana Republican U.S. House candidate Ryan Zinke filed a financial disclosure that reports he has received nearly $800,000 in consulting fees so far this year and collected between $25,000 and $80,000 in rent from three properties in Whitefish.

Judge blocks vaccine mandate for health care workers

A federal judge in Louisiana on Tuesday issued a ruling blocking the Biden administration's mandate requiring millions of health care workers nationwide be vaccinated against Covid-19.

Authorities: Student kills 3, wounds 8 at Michigan school

A 15-year-old sophomore opened fire at his Michigan high school on Tuesday, killing three students and wounding eight other people, including at least one teacher, authorities said.

Montana faces stifling shortage of homes, researcher says

Can Montana build its way out of a housing shortage? Too few homes is the root cause of the state's stifling housing market, a researcher says.

Minivan driver dies after colliding head-on with school bus

A minivan collided head-on with a school bus in southeastern Montana on Monday morning, killing the driver of the minivan, the Montana Highway Patrol said.

Man gets 65 years in prison for hatchet homicide

A Great Falls man was sentenced Monday to 65 years in prison for killing another man with a hatchet during a March 2018 street fight.

Whitefish pulls back on regs for marijuana retail stores

Deciding it wanted to further restrict where marijuana retail stores can operate and how they receive approval, the Whitefish City Council recently pulled an item off its agenda regarding zoning regulations for marijuana sales and production businesses.

Night of Lights ready to shine in Columbia Falls

After a year’s hiatus, the Night of Lights parade will roll down Nucleus Avenue in Columbia Falls on Friday, Dec. 3.

Law roundup: Revamping Congress not dispatcher's wheelhouse

A woman allegedly called 911 and yelled at dispatchers to “revamp Congress,” when the line disconnected. She called right back and was advised dispatchers had no authority to solve that type of “emergency.”

Elaine White, 65

Our heavenly family received another angel on Friday, Nov. 19, 2021. Elaine White passed unexpectedly after a brief illness.

Short-term rental requests draw opposition near Whitefish

The Flathead County Board of Adjustment is being asked to weigh in on two separate short-term rental requests that have drawn opposition from neighbors.

Women Who Wine host giving celebration Dec. 7

Women Who Wine’s eighth annual giving celebration, “A Night to Applaud Our Stars!” will be held Tuesday, Dec. 7, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Gathering Place in the Gateway Community Center, Kalispell.

Legals for November, 30 2021

Check station results show improved hunting success

The general hunting season concluded Sunday, and despite unseasonably warmer conditions, the overall big game harvest remained higher than recent years in Northwest Montana, according to preliminary check station results.

Ring those bells: Chamber red kettle day is Dec. 2

Every year, the Salvation Army of Kalispell promotes Chamber Ring Off Day — an opportunity for the local Chambers of Commerce to ring the bell at one of the iconic red kettles and see which Chamber can raise the most donations.

Law roundup: Sketchy man peddles tattoos from camper

A “very sketchy” man was allegedly selling tattoos out of a parked camper trailer.

Montana sees strong winds, record high temps on Sunday

(AP) — Strong winds, with occasional gusts of up to 100 mph, made travel difficult along the Rocky Mountain Front in northern Montana, while record high temperatures were seen in some areas, the National Weather Service said Sunday.

Kindergarten educator has zest for teaching reading

As a kindergarten teacher, Derrick Criner knows that progress is a process and trying new things may lead to enriching experiences.

Rogene E. Rogers, 68

Rogene E. Rogers, age 68, of Kalispell, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, Nov. 23, while surrounded by the love of her family at Logan Health Hospital in Kalispell after a courageous fight with cancer.

Letters to the editor Nov. 29

Letters to the editor Nov. 29

Money isn’t everything in a small town

Rumor has it that many of the Covid refugees who have fled American cities and suburbs to settle in the Flathead have brought great wealth with them. Nothing wrong with that. Good for you, I say. By all means, enjoy your moolah.

Kalispell sets record high; damaging winds blast East Glacier

Strong winds, with occasional gusts of up to 100 mph, made travel difficult along the Rocky Mountain Front in northern Montana, while record high temperatures were seen in some areas, the National Weather Service said Sunday.

Richard ‘Dick’ C. Sherman, 88

Richard was born on Jan. 14, 1933, in Minot, North Dakota, to Waldo and Dorothy Sherman.

Glacier Park continues work toward 100% Dark Sky compliance

Glacier and Waterton National Parks have become a haven for stargazers and amateur astronomers.

Funding will breathe new life into ‘The Lifeline of the Hi-Line’

For several decades, the Milk River Project has been chronically underfunded and in need of essential repairs. Politicians of every stripe have failed to deliver the dollars needed to forge a long-term solution.

PeerSpectives business roundtable group launched

1128 biz peerspectives

Law roundup: Police hop to it to help frog in traffic stop

A tow truck was called in during a traffic stop and someone requested a frog in the front seat of the vehicle be taken to the shelter.

Save yourself the hassle, shop local this season

Lingering supply-chain woes and worldwide shipping delays continue to hamstring many national retailers and e-commerce sites heading into the Christmas shopping season.

A practice in cultivating daily gratitude

Gratitude is the soul’s balm, especially in the worst of times.

Kelly Watson, 65

Kelly passed away peacefully on Nov. 22, 2021, at his home in Columbia Falls.

New meat processing plant opens in St. Ignatius

At D&J Meats in St. Ignatius, owner Donald Pierce knows that bagging a buck is just the beginning for hunters.

5 ways to give back on Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday, created in 2012 and marked on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving — Nov. 30 this year — is meant to be more than just a single day of giving. Its intent is to encourage global generosity, and the movement has continued to gain traction worldwide year after year.

Logan Health Kalispell births

Oliver Lloyd Sagen, son of Andrew and Rebekah Sagen of Whitefish, was born Nov. 2, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center.

Reginold ‘Reggie’ McMurdo, 76

Reginold Wayne McMurdo passed away Oct. 16, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center.

Helen J. McDivitt, 94

Helen J. McDivitt, 94, passed away at her home in Kalispell on Nov. 22, 2021.

FVCC hires hospital executive to lead foundation

Flathead Valley Community College has hired a familiar face to lead the college’s nonprofit fundraising arm.

Cyber Monday sales should be robust but business cooling

Cyber Monday sales should be robust but business cooling

Elaine White, 65

Our heavenly family received another angel on Friday, Nov. 19, 2021. Elaine White passed unexpectedly after a brief illness.

Road work wraps up for season on U.S. 2 West roundabout

Construction of the Dern and Springcreek roundabout on U.S. 2 has wrapped up for the year, according to the Montana Department of Transportation.

Food, gas prices pinch families as inflation surges globally

Food, gas prices pinch families as inflation surges globally

Letters to the editor Nov. 28

Letters to the editor Nov. 28

The reality of facial recognition in Montana

We’ve been following developments as the Economic Affairs Interim Committee continues to study the use of Facial Recognition in Montana.

Project aims to restore underpass gateway to Glacier Park

The three phase project to restore the historic BNSF underpass in West Glacier could begin work as early as spring 2022.

Nickerbokker's Pizza bring unique taste to Evergreen

Evergreen's Nick Erickson is in search of the perfect pizza.

Legals for November, 28 2021

Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey stepping down as CEO

Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey stepping down as CEO

Missing Montana man killed in crash in Idaho, police say

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho State Police say that a driver killed in car crash, on Friday night in Boise County, has been identified as a missing Montana man.

PHOTOS: Annual Light Up Evergreen and Pie Auction

The Light Up Evergreen & Pie Auction at The Hardware Store on Tuesday, Nov. 23.

Legals for November, 27 2021

Infrastructure investment good for the tribes

All it takes are a few short conversations with community members and a drive around the Flathead Reservation to recognize that our highways, bridges, water projects, and broadband access are all in great need of repair and advancement.

States prepare for the great abortion ‘what-if’

California among first states to consider what happens if abortion rights shrink

With access to abortion at stake across America, California is preparing to become the nation’s abortion provider.

Law roundup: Woman captures break-in on camera

A woman reported an intruder insider her shop. She told Flathead County Sheriff's Office dispatchers that was watching the break-in on a security camera.

Gloria Ann (Christiansen) Angst, 77

Gloria Ann (Christiansen) Angst, 77, of Bigfork, slipped the surly bonds of earth on Nov. 22, 2021, in the presence of family and friends

Letters to the editor Nov. 27

Letters to the editor Nov. 27

Report from legislative transportation interim committee

Between sessions of the Montana Legislature, interim committees are appointed to discuss past bills and areas of interest for future bills. A few weeks ago, the transportation committee met with a variety of topics.

Beasley, Griz hit the gas to beat Southern Miss

Robby Beasley, a sophomore guard, hit five long-range shots Friday night in Montana’s 74-62 win over Southern Mississippi at the Zootown Classic men’s basketball tournament.

World races to contain new COVID threat, the omicron variant

Nearly two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, the world raced Friday to contain a new coronavirus variant potentially more dangerous than the one that has fueled relentless waves of infection on nearly every continent.

Biden sets out oil, gas leasing reform, stops short of ban

The Biden administration on Friday recommended an overhaul of the nation's oil and gas leasing program to focus on areas that are most suitable for energy development and raise costs for energy companies to drill on public lands and water.

Small businesses prepare for long holiday season

Small Business Saturday is back after a hiatus due to Covid-19 last year, but like the shift seen with other traditional holiday shopping events such as Black Friday, the focus is now on the entire season instead of a single day.

EPA proposed action on CFAC cleanup delayed until next year

Columbia Falls City Manager Susan Nicosia recently met with Glencore officials to discuss the former Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. site, and learned the company has concerns about the city’s stance on the cleanup of the Superfund site.

Legals for November, 26 2021

Paul G. Landis, 83

Paul Gotwals Landis, 83 years old, was born in August of 1938 to Wilmer Meyers Landis and Lorraine Schueck Gotwals in Elroy, Pennsylvania.

Joanne Shaw Corning, 90

Joanne Shaw Corning passed away peacefully at her home on Nov. 19, 2021, at the age of 90.

A community making a difference and creating change

Last Thanksgiving we doubt many, or any, of us would have thought this Thanksgiving would look and feel the same in many ways.

Sykes continues its beloved community Thanksgiving dinner tradition

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be the same in Kalispell if Sykes Diner didn’t invite the community to come in for its traditional holiday dinner free of charge.

Law roundup: Man causes scene and threatens harm

Dispatchers called back a phone number associated with a 911 hangup and spoke with a man who was out working in Kalispell when another man allegedly came out and caused a scene by harassing and yelling at him, hitting his vehicle and threatening to shoot him.

Cody Lane Fierro, 38

In loving memory of Cody Lane Fierro. He passed away Oct. 13, 2021, age 38.

‘A Touch of Christmas’ plays for one night only

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre presents “A Touch Of Christmas – Brach Thomson & Friends” in concert, Saturday, Dec. 4, at 7:30 p.m. at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

Dueling Pianos a hilarious, interactive evening

Enjoy a fun New Year’s Eve night of singing, dancing, comedy and outrageous piano playing as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Glacier Country hosts its third annual Dueling Pianos fundraiser.

Kalispell’s Art Walk & Holiday Stroll is Dec. 3

Mark your calendars now for the Kalispell Downtown Association annual Art Walk & Holiday Stroll, taking place Friday, Dec. 3, from 5 to 8 p.m.

1125 TWIF Briefs

Hockaday opens doors for Small Business Saturday shoppers and browsers

WTC offers preview night for ‘Elf The Musical’

The Whitefish Theatre Company presents the modern holiday classic “Elf The Musical” as its winter show at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish

KALICO Art Center hosts inaugural gala

KALICO Art Center invites the public to its inaugural art experience fundraiser, KALICO GALA: On the Threshold, to support the local arts community from 4 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 4 at MontaVino Winery in Downtown Kalispell.

Northwest Ballet Co. performs ‘Nutcracker’ this weekend in Bigfork

Northwest Ballet Company brings back its holiday classic performance of “The Nutcracker” this weekend.

Shakespeare in the Schools tours Flathead Valley

For its 29th season, Montana Shakespeare in the Schools has hit the road with a tour of “Much Ado About Nothing."

Thanksgiving traditions

Happy Thanksgiving! This is one, if not the happiest weekends of the year for me.

Letters to the editor Nov. 25

Letters to the editor Nov. 25

Gypsy Theatre Guild reads ‘A Christmas Carol’ at Conrad Mansion

The Conrad Mansion Museum in Kalispell presents “A Christmas Carol Radio Broadcast” Dec. 3, 4 and 5.

All 3 men charged in Arbery's death convicted of murder

Jurors on Wednesday convicted the three white men charged in the death of Ahmaud Arbery, the Black man who was chased and fatally shot while running through their neighborhood in an attack that became part of the larger national reckoning on racial injustice.

Logan Health to require Covid vaccine for all employees

Logan Health is requiring its entire staff to have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine by Dec. 10 in order to comply with a federal rule announced earlier this month.

Federal agent charged with pulling work gun on bar patron

A Drug Enforcement Administration agent from Colorado was charged Tuesday with felony assault with a weapon for reportedly pulling his government-issued handgun on a man at a Bozeman bar while he was intoxicated.

Artists and Craftsmen of the Flathead stronger than ever after 40 years

From humble beginnings, the Artists and Craftsmen of the Flathead organization has grown into a burgeoning organization that now boasts 160 members and is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.

David Norman Board, 72

David Norman Board was born on Aug. 31, 1949, and went to be with the Lord on Monday, Nov. 22, 2021.

Jean Harter, 85

Life is a journey that begins with the first step. Virgene “Jean” Carol Ecker Harter’s journey started on April 16, 1936, in Lake Benton, Minnesota.

Council finalizes game plan for new ward boundaries

The Kalispell City Council moved forward with plans to redraw the boundaries for its four wards after a work session Monday evening.

John D. 'Del' McNamara, 81

John D. “Del” McNamara, passed away on Nov. 13, 2021, at the age of 81 in Kalispell.

Legals for November, 24 2021

Gifts With A Lift program spreads cheer to state hospital patients

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services is accepting mailed packages of holiday gifts to benefit Montana State Hospital patients.

Former off-duty officer sentenced for threatening Blackfeet tribal employees

A former off-duty federal law enforcement officer who admitted to misdemeanor assault for pointing an assault rifle at three Blackfeet tribal employees who were testing water on his property was sentenced today to five years of probation and ordered to pay $10,626 restitution, U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.

Kalispell Copy Center ‘does it all’

From posters to cardboard cutouts of friends — Kalispell Copy Center’s slogan, “Yeah, we do that too,” is no exaggeration.

Thomas Matthew Gebhardt, 35

Beloved son, father, and friend, Thomas Matthew Gebhardt, 35, passed away at home from colon cancer on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021.

Applied Materials to add up to 200 new jobs

Applied Materials plans to add as many as 200 new jobs in Kalispell with its expansion into a new manufacturing facility in Evergreen, Brian Aegerter, the company's general manager for Montana, said Monday.

Law roundup: Driver has difficulty negotiating roundabout

A driver in Kalispell reportedly went up and over a roundabout, according to a call into the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

C-Falls grabs first at home meet; Whitefish takes third

The Columbia Falls speech and debate team placed first among Class A schools at its invitational home meet Saturday, while Stevensville slid into second place and Whitefish took third.

Cheri Truman Butts, 65

Cheri Truman Butts of Eureka passed away on Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021, at Logan Health.

Whitefish student performs in international music festival

Fiona Shanahan, 14, of Whitefish, performed at the New York Concert Music Festival on Nov. 20 at the Lincoln Center in New York City, placing second in the classical vocal competition.

Big Sky Notes: Playoff-bound EWU Eagles seeing red

It’s Football Championship Subdivision playoff time, and the Eastern Washington Eagles are seeing red.

Griz, Cats put 6 on all-Big Sky first team

The Big Sky Conference’s sack and interception leaders were among six all-league picks for the Montana Grizzlies Tuesday, as the honors teams for 2021 were announced.

Jury awards $26M in damages for Unite the Right violence

A jury ordered 17 white nationalist leaders and organizations to pay more than $26 million in damages Tuesday over the violence that erupted during the deadly 2017 Unite the Right rally in Charlottesville in 2017.

Montana's general hunting season wraps up Sunday

Montana’s general hunting season is winding down and concludes Sunday, Nov. 28.

Query of hospital threats finds voicemail by former senator

An investigation into a complaint that public officials tried to intimidate employees of Montana hospital into treating a COVID-19 patient with unapproved medication uncovered a voicemail left by a former state senator in which she said she didn't think "senators would be too happy to hear about" the hospital's care of the patient.

Preseason uphill rules begin at Whitefish Mountain Resort

Preseason uphill skiing regulations are now in effect at Whitefish Mountain Resort, resort officials announced Tuesday.

Missoula woman charged for allegedly killing her children

A Montana woman accused of stabbing her two small children was kept behind bars Monday on a $10 million bail by a judge who called her a great risk to the community and also ordered a mental health evaluation.

Legals for November, 23 2021

C-Falls School Board ditches membership in national association

The Columbia Falls School District has joined the Montana School Board Association in dropping its membership to the National School Boards Association.

Law roundup: Thirsty woman suspected of excessive drinking

A woman who had already been asked to leave a business took two wine bottles into the store’s bathroom.

FVCC library acquires extraordinary Western book collection

The Old West is back and wild as ever at the Broussard Family Library and Learning Commons at Flathead Valley Community College, thanks to a significant donation of Western literature.

Aluma Glass makes move to Evergreen

Kalispell’s oldest glass company has moved locations for the first time in its 50 plus year history. Aluma Glass is making their new home in Evergreen and it offers the business a little extra elbow room, plus more to grow.

Whitefish School Board to revisit mask policy in December

Although the Covid-19 vaccine was approved for emergency use in children ages 5 through 15 in early November, the Whitefish School District is sticking with the requirement for students in grades K-6 to wear masks at school at least until December.

Where there's a mill, there's a way

Backyard sawmill a response to high lumber prices

When Josh Byers moved his family to Troy earlier this year, he didn’t expect that running a backyard sawmill would be in the cards.

Alicia Faye Bump, 30

Alicia was born on Feb. 5, 1990, in Kalispell to Michael S. Bump and Penny L. Bump.

Proposed change to on-the-job training regs rankles Montana labor

Trade unions and state officials are at odds over a proposed rule that would increase the number of apprentices who can work under a journeyman tradesman, with directors of union training programs warning that the change could pose safety risks and decrease the quality of hands-on learning in the workplace.

In the Flathead, civic leaders struggle with a worsening housing ‘crisis’

An affordable housing forum in Whitefish on Nov. 17 featured representatives from local government, nonprofits and the business community.

Honors for O'Connell, Griz football players

College football

Kids' Covid vaccine clinic planned Dec. 1

A Covid-19 vaccine clinic for children ages 5 to 11 is planned Wednesday, Dec. 1 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

Forest project near Lakeside to begin next spring

The Flathead Forest has approved a 1,200-acre project west of Lakeside aimed at stopping the spread of insects and diseases affecting forest health.

Jeffery 'Jeff' L. Hersey, 66

​​Former Montana Flathead Valley resident Jeffery “Jeff” L. Hersey, 66, passed away peacefully in his home in Roy, Washington, on Nov. 10, 2021.

Program in Big Sky works to increase rental availability

A program in the resort community of Big Sky that offers landlords cash to convert vacation rentals or seasonal homes into long-term homes for locals converted 21 homes and housed 58 locals in its first three months.

Law roundup: Unruly mob unleashes snowball assault

Kids at Depot Park were peppering passing cars with snowballs, according to Kalispell Police Department logs.

Sacred Eats shares unique food flare with Sacred Waters Brewing

Sacred Eats shares its unique food flare with Sacred Waters Brewing Co.

Whitefish Handcrafted Spirits finds a welcome home in Evergreen

In Evergreen, a popular distillery created in Whitefish years ago has found a home.

Letters to the editor Nov. 22

Letters to the editor Nov. 22

Kalispell council to redistrict city's four wards

The Kalispell City Council will consider redistricting its four wards at a work session Monday evening.

Glacier Park historical architect has no shortage of projects

With more than 700 historical buildings and structures in Glacier National Park, historical architect Kim Hyatt has his hands full.

Montana-Western falls to Lindsey Wilson College

College football

Edwin 'Ned' Drake, 88

Edwin “Ned” Drake, 88, of Somers, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 14, 2021, at his daughters home in Missoula of extended illness.

New gear company specializes in Swedish workwear

Trusted Gear Company is a new Evergreen business that specializes in Swedish workwear.

Couple taps into growing sport of ax-throwing

Couple offers family-friendly ax-throwing at new Kalispell facility.

Evergreen alumni retain special bond with school district

Many students who attend Evergreen schools follow in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents and maybe even their great-grandparents, and retain a close bond with the school district.

George William Ingham II, 83

George William Ingham II passed away at Logan Health Whitefish on Sept. 24, 2021, at 83 years old.

Saving Somers' history: Contractor breathing life into historic buildings

For decades the old building sat in a terrible state of disrepair at the west end of Somers Road, now Lee Maxwell is painstakingly restoring the structures to their former glory.

4 reasons to invest in cyber security Insurance for your small business

While billion-dollar corporations and their very public battles with issues such as ransomware attacks typically garner most of the headlines, small businesses are far from immune to cybersecurity troubles.

Legals for November, 21 2021

H. Peter Skibsrud, 76

On Nov. 2, 2021, H. Peter Skibsrud succumbed to his long fight with kidney failure.

Light Up Evergreen is annual holiday favorite

Evergreen is getting ready to deck the halls with its annual tree-lighting ceremony and pie auction.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Flathead Business Watercooler

Marion Morrison Muller, 91

Marion Morrison Muller passed on Oct. 10, 2021, while surrounded by her loving family.

A woodworker’s passion is rekindled

The first thing my husband Tim made for me from wood 40 years ago was a name plate for my desk.

Biden to keep Powell as Fed chair, Brainard gets vice chair

Biden to keep Powell as Fed chair, Brainard gets vice chair

Letters to the editor Nov. 21

Letters to the editor Nov. 21

Creating Montana jobs, lowering costs

As a farmer, I know firsthand that good things take time. Every year, I plant my fields with crops like wheat, barley, peas, and saffron, and in July, August, and September, I harvest those crops and reap what I’ve sown.

Dems confident on methane fee as budget bill moves to Senate

Dems confident on methane fee as budget bill moves to Senate

Library has vital role in guarding freedom of information

ImagineIF Libraries is in the spotlight for a couple of books in its adult collection that seem inappropriate to some.

Target to keep stores closed on Thanksgiving for good

Target to keep stores closed on Thanksgiving for good

Yes, there are turkeys for Thanksgiving - for a price

Yes, there are turkeys for Thanksgiving - for a price

Enforce Montana’s ‘Bad Actor’ mining law

As a hunter and angler who’s lived in the Upper Clark Fork River valley between Deer Lodge and Anaconda for more than 30 years, I can attest to the damaging legacy of mining on our waterways.

1121 Building permits

Kalispell building permits

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Boys and Girls Club restarts Evergreen program

Since becoming the executive director of Boys and Girls club of Glacier Country a year ago, Mandy Anderson has racked up leadership accolades, steered the organization through the Covid-19 pandemic and reinstituted a Boys and Girls clubhouse in Evergreen.

Bergen ignites Griz, who snap 4-game skid against Cats

Cam Humphrey’s 74-yard touchdown pass to Junior Bergen set the tone for the Montana Grizzlies, who went on to soundly beat Montana State 29-10 in the 120th Cat-Griz game Saturday.

Griz defense ready to measure up

Two years ago the Montana State Bobcats ran all over the Grizzlies, piling up 382 rushing yards in a 48-14 win.

Florence downs Bigfork 42-0 for State B title

Patrick Duchien threw for 271 yards and three touchdowns, ran for another score and won the State B football championship Saturday with a 42-0 win over conference foe Bigfork.

PHOTOS: Montana beats Montana State 29-10 in 120th Brawl of the Wild

Photos from Montana's 29-10 win over Montana State in the 120th Brawl of the Wild at Washington-Grizzly Stadium in Missoula on Saturday, Nov. 20.

Montana denies rival Montana State, wins 29-10

Kevin Macias kicked five field goals, Montana scored a touchdown on the second play of the game, and the Grizzlies beat in-state rival Montana State 29-10 in front of a record home crowd on Saturday in the 120th Brawl of the Wild.

Interior secretary seeks to rid US of derogatory place names

U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland on Friday formally declared "squaw" a derogatory term and said she is taking steps to remove it from federal government use and to replace other derogatory place names.

Kalispell man dies in Ferndale rollover

A 52-year-old Kalispell man died Thursday evening in a one-vehicle rollover near Ferndale, the Montana Highway Patrol said.

Native American confirmed as head of National Park Service

The U.S. Senate has unanimously approved the nomination of Charles "Chuck" Sams III as National Park Service director, which will make him the first Native American to lead the agency.

Board rebukes accusation of 'rogue' health officer

The Flathead City-County Board of Health on Thursday voted to update its by-laws to reflect a new inter local agreement that gives Whitefish and Columbia Falls representation on the board, as well as to adhere to new laws passed by the state Legislature that subjects emergency decisions by local health boards and health officers to approval by elected officials.

Legals for November, 20 2021

Law roundup Sandman visits car in Columbia Falls

Someone put sand in a man’s broken-down car.

Betty Bronwyn Stinger, 81

Betty Bronwyn Stinger, 81, of Trego, passed away on Nov. 5, 2021, with her daughters by her side.

Letters to the editor Nov. 20

Letters to the editor Nov. 20

James 'Jim' Richard Atkins, Sr., 62

James “Jim” Richard Atkins, Sr., 62, of Lakeside, passed into the arms of Jesus on Nov. 15, 2021, due to complications from Covid-19.

George “Frank” Warburton, 88

On Nov. 12, 2021, George “Frank” Warburton, 88, died peacefully of natural causes in Kalispell, and went to “The Happy Hunting Ground in The Sky.”

Prioritizes rural health care by training next generation of physicians

This Thursday, Nov. 18, marks National Rural Health Day, a chance to raise awareness about the unique healthcare challenges facing rural citizens, including a lack of healthcare providers, increasing rural hospital closures, the needs of an aging population and the un- and under-insured.

Lauretta Milne, 96

Lauretta Milne passed away, Nov. 8, 2021, age 96 years, on Maui, Hawaii.

Mary-Bye Pickering, 80

Mary-Bye Pickering passed away on Oct. 6, 2021, surrounded by her loving family.

Cats, Griz ready to brawl in 120th meeting

The betting line has moved, the Montana State Bobcats are on a streak and the Montana Grizzlies are still beat up.

Vikings get another crack at Falcons in Class B chipper

The 62-26 loss on Oct. 21 doesn’t look good for the Bigfork Vikings, who get a rematch with the Florence Falcons today, for the State B football championship.

Man killed in Creston accident ID'd

Brandon Eric Roberts has been identified as the man who died in an accident Monday near Creston.

Structure fire an accident, not arson, fire chief says

Columbia Falls fire Chief Karl Weeks said Friday that a house fire that killed two people earlier this week was an accident, not arson.

Whitefish Planning Board rejects Mountain Gateway project

The Whitefish Planning Board on Thursday voted 3-1 to recommend denial of the proposed Mountain Gateway mixed-use development at the base of Big Mountain.

Bad Rock purchase clears another big hurdle

The state Land Board on Monday approved the purchase of the Bad Rock Wildlife Management Area near Columbia Falls.

Montana's unemployment rate down to 3.1%; 525,000 working

A record number of Montana residents are working and the state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate reached a 14-year low in October, the governor's office said Friday.

Ex-Kalispell Police officer sentenced for drunken crash

A retired Kalispell Police Department officer charged with DUI and criminal endangerment after a collision last fall has pleaded guilty.

Kyle Rittenhouse cleared of all charges in Kenosha shootings

Kyle Rittenhouse was acquitted of all charges Friday after pleading self-defense in the deadly Kenosha shootings that became a flashpoint in the nation's debate over guns, vigilantism and racial injustice.

US opens boosters to all adults, urges them for 50+

The U.S. on Friday opened COVID-19 booster shots to all adults and took the extra step of urging people 50 and older to seek one, aiming to ward off a winter surge as coronavirus cases rise even before millions of Americans travel for the holidays.

Dems' sweeping social, climate bill passes divided House

Democrats brushed aside months-long divisions and pushed their expansive social and environment bill through a sharply divided House on Friday, as President Joe Biden and his party moved closer to capitalizing on their control of government by funneling its resources toward their top domestic priorities.

OPI’s School Law Conference explores hot-button education issues

Montana school officials and teachers got an earful Tuesday from a panel of legal experts on everything from critical race theory to parental and transgender rights.

Law roundup: Man overly compliant with mask wearing

A man who was forbidden from a location apparently tried to return multiple times wearing masks as a disguise, according to a report to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Albert E. Carleton, 81

Our hearts are heavy yet filled with joy for the years shared with our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Albert Carleton.

Legals for November, 19 2021

Whitefish eyes city property for affordable housing

The city of Whitefish is taking the beginning steps to prepare a chunk of its own property on Monegan Road as a site for a future affordable workforce housing development.

Some health-care officials say they’ll follow CMS rules, not state law, to keep operating

Many health-care organizations throughout Montana say they’re continuing to require employees be vaccinated by Dec. 5, as directed by the federal Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services, despite a state law passed by the Legislature earlier this year that disallowed many employers from requiring vaccines as a condition of employment.

Women of Rollins buy historic schoolhouse

The Women of Rollins Club has completed the purchase of the historic Rollins Schoolhouse, a small, white structure near Flathead Lake above the east shore of Canal Bay in Rollins.

Two Flathead Valley soccer players helped UM have a banner year

It’s been a whirlwind 2021 for Flathead Valley soccer products Josie Windauer and Skyleigh Thompson, who saw Montana’s soccer season end Saturday with a 3-0 loss to Washington State in the NCAA tournament.

Covid shots among Flathead kids off to slow start

Just 1% of children ages 5 to 11 in Flathead County received a Covid-19 vaccination in the first week the shot was available to that age group, new state data shows.

Blacktail Ski Area sold to Washington resort company

Washington-based Mission Ridge Ski & Board Resort on Thursday announced it has purchased the Blacktail Mountain Ski Area in Lakeside.

Arizona man pleads guilty to negligent homicide

An Arizona man accused of killing a Kalispell resident while allegedly driving drunk last year pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead County District Court.

Idaho farmers begin applying for permits to grow hemp

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture launched its online application system for would-be hemp growers early last week, and applications are beginning to trickle in.

Chronic wasting disease found in two deer in Idaho

Idaho wildlife managers say two deer killed in north-central Idaho have tested positive for chronic wasting disease. It's the first time the contagious and fatal neurological disorder has been detected in the state.

Montana doesn’t have nor want a state police

In Montana we do not have to worry about a knock at the door at night after which we are confronted with a gruff voice declaring, “This is the state police, and we want to talk to you.”

Keep your family healthy; get vaccinated

As Montana physicians caring for children, we recommend strongly and without reservation that all newly eligible children – as well as all teenagers and adults – receive a Covid vaccine.

Elk produce a real jolt of adrenaline

I’d nearly forgotten the feeling, but seeing the group moving in front of me was like being on cloud nine.

Legals for November, 18 2021

Letters to the editor Nov. 18

Letters to the editor Nov. 18

Kalispell woman charged in alleged weed whacker attack

A Kalispell woman has been charged with attacking another woman with a weed wacker during a late night incident last week.

Library reviewing gender identity books after complaints filed

ImagineIF Libraries has received a formal request to remove the graphic novel and memoir, “Gender Queer,” by Aia Kobabe, and Interim Library Director Martha Furman is establishing a review committee to investigate the complaint.

Lonepine's Benson claims another Mack Days title

Benson was the top angler with a total of 1,068 lake trout. Benson had an 18-day average of 52.89. He fished 26 days of the 27 total weekend fishing days.

New book highlights ecology of Northwestern larch tree

Stephen F. Arno of Missoula has self-published through Amazon a book on the ecology and history of the Northwestern larch titled “Golden Trees of the Mountain West.”

Helena Theatre presents unique Native American performance

The Helena Avenue Theatre in Helena present Winter Lodge Rendezvous, a live show featuring Native American performers, at 7 p.m. Dec. 3.

Beloved ‘Nutcracker’ ballet returns to Bigfork

Northwest Ballet Company brings back its holiday classic performance of “The Nutcracker Suite” this Thanksgiving.

Wolfpack Theatre’s presents final performance of ‘110 Stories’

The Wolfpack Theatre Company presents its final performance of “110 Stories: The Untold Stories of 9/11” Nov. 20. Curtain time is 6:33 p.m. in the Wolfpack Theatre at Glacier High School.

New Hellroaring chairlift expected to open Dec. 11

Whitefish Mountain Resort plans to open the newly relocated Chair 8 into Hellroaring Basin on Dec. 11, if snow conditions allow.

1118 TWIF Briefs

Flathead Flute Choir perform tonight at Polson Church

Law roundup: Woman lets 100 cats out of the bag

A woman told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office she believed her relatives were keeping more than 100 cats at their house.

History Museum shows director Richard Linklater’s ‘Before Sunrise’

The Northwest Montana History Museum’s next Movie Night at the Museum will screen the 1995 romantic drama “Before Sunrise” at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 23.

Vikings seniors reflect on emotional season

When they stepped onto the practice field for the first time this season on a wet, foggy morning in August, Bigfork’s Vikings had no idea the trials they would face in the coming months.

COLUMN: Looking toward a more perfect Saturday

I, for one, am not as upset as some Montanans about College GameDay, the long-running, Saturday morning, football-centric show on ESPN not coming in for the Cat-Griz game this week.

Bishop leaves race for Montana's western U.S. House seat

Democratic State Rep. Laurie Bishop bowed out of the race for Montana's new U.S. House seat on Thursday, a week after the congressional district boundaries were finalized, leaving her hometown of Livingston outside of the district in which she was running.

Arlee man gets life in prison for road-rage, trooper shootings

A western Montana man who responded to a plume of diesel exhaust with a murderous rage was sentenced Wednesday to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

U.S.-Canada border towns assess damage from devastating floods

Residents of this small U.S. city along the Canadian border were assessing damage from flooding that hit an estimated three quarters of homes, as Washington state and British Columbia tried to dry out from an intense, days-long rain storm that cut off key roadways and forced hundreds of evacuations.

Montanans should expect higher heating costs this winter

Montana residents should expect to shell out more money to heat their homes this winter due to an increase in energy costs, the Montana Public Service Commission said Wednesday, but there's also additional aid this year for low-income residents.

National parks to offer look into green-friendly transit

Americans may soon get a better glimpse into a future of green-friendly transportation by visiting a U.S. national park.

Law roundup: Woman really doesn’t want help

A woman was released from surgery and then she said two women were in her yard trying to help her, but she didn’t want their help.

John Daniel Price II, 68

Our rock, John Daniel Price II, 68, logged his final run and reunited with his son, Dustin and all those that passed before him on Nov. 8, 2021.

Tony Ray Wamsley, 59

“Forever Young.” A son of the Flathead Valley, Tony was born in Kalispell on July 16, 1962, to Jay and Marilyn Wamsley.

Kalispell Education Foundation funds ‘Great Ideas’

The Kalispell Education Foundation awarded $26,687 in Great Ideas grants to help teachers and counselors fund projects and equipment to enrich the classroom experience in Kalispell Public Schools.

Randy Paul Robbins, 58

Randy Paul Robbins, 58, passed away in Flathead County on Nov. 12, 2021, surrounded by his family.

Foy's Lake interchange completed on U.S. 93 bypass

The Montana Department of Transportation on Tuesday announced the completion of the majority of construction on the new Foy’s Lake Road Interchange on the U.S. 93 bypass.

UM creates endowment fund in honor of Old Person

In the heart of the Payne Family Native American Center on the University of Montana campus, UM President Seth Bodnar announced on Monday that he directed $300,000 from a recent gift to establish an endowment to support UM’s Kyiyo Pow Wow.

Gingerbread contest planned as fundraiser in Whitefish

In anticipation of this year’s Whitefish Christmas Stroll, Century 21 Deaton and Company Real Estate, together with the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce, will be co-hosting the Great Whitefish Gingerbread Contest, a fundraiser for Whitefish affordable housing.

Legals for November, 17 2021

'Restoring Kindness' project includes Habitat work in Lakeside

Dayspring Restoration team members volunteered at a number of locations on Oct. 29, including Habitat for Humanity, by helping build a new home in Lakeside at 146 Crystal View Court.

Mountain Gateway hearings continue Thursday

The Whitefish Planning Board on Thursday will continue two public hearings on the proposed Mountain Gateway development at the base of Big Mountain.

Kalispell council gives final nod to 324-unit apartment project

City approves 324 apartment units

Big Sky Notes: First look at Saturday’s Brawl

And so it is now “Brawl” week, or as some like to call it, “Cat-Griz Week,” which is what it was for decades upon decades before Griz fans started wondering why it wasn’t “Griz-Cat.”

Polson’s Cox earns NW A coach of year honors

Polson coach Lizzy Cox is the Northwestern A volleyball coach of the year, announced in a list released Monday night.

Glacier’s Gulick named Western AA player of year

Glacier senior Sidney Gulick was named the Western AA volleyball player of the year and 1st team all-state in a list released Tuesday.

Dahlman confirmed winner in Kalispell Ward 3 recount

Jessica Dahlman was confirmed as the winner after the recount for Kalispell City Council Ward 3, narrowly defeating Rod Kuntz by eight votes, 451 to 443 — the same count that was tallied in the Nov. 2 municipal election.

2nd group of states challenges health worker vaccine mandate

A second set of states has filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Biden administration's COVID-19 vaccine mandate for health care workers.

Ex-Montana women's basketball coach sues for discrimination

Former Montana women's basketball coach Shannon Schweyen has sued the university in federal court, alleging she was the victim of sexual discrimination during her employment and when her contract was not renewed.

Accused wife killer free on bail

Bradley Jay Hillious, 35, accused of killing his wife in December 2020, was released from the Flathead County Detention Center Monday after posting $100,000 bail.

Damaging winds knock out power to Northwest Montana

More than 10,000 Flathead Electric Cooperative members were without power overnight Monday into Tuesday morning as damaging winds battered the region.

Nonpartisan forum to address affordable-housing challenges

​​A panel of local professionals working to provide affordable housing in the Flathead Valley will take the stage at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 17, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Construction underway for 192 apartments on Stillwater Road

Developer Jason Evans is spearheading Stillwater Crossing, a market-rate housing complex located at 430 Stillwater Road.

Block grant hearing to identify community needs

A public hearing to address community needs that could be met through a community development block grant will be held Thursday.

Whitefish to pursue river trail connection

The Whitefish City Council has agreed to pursue the construction of a missing section of trail along the Whitefish River.

Slash generates electricity; heats Stoltze mill

A massive, but surprisingly quiet machine recently was working in the woods in the Crystal-Cedar area, grinding up a huge slash pile into wood chips.

Glacier chalks up another win at Missoula tourney

The Glacier High School speech and debate team captured its second consecutive win of the season in Missoula over the weekend.

Law roundup: Motorist bears brunt of egging in C-Falls

Someone reportedly threw eggs at passing cars on Nucleus Avenue. A woman told the Columbia Falls Police Department her back window was hit by an egg when she drove past a bar.

Kalispell man killed in accident near Creston

A 45-year-old Kalispell man was killed Monday afternoon after he was struck while attempting to secure a load on a trailer.

Biden signs $1T infrastructure deal with bipartisan crowd

President Joe Biden signed his hard-fought $1 trillion infrastructure deal into law Monday before a bipartisan, celebratory crowd on the White House lawn, declaring that the new infusion of cash for roads, bridges, ports and more is going to make life "change for the better" for the American people.

Recount scheduled for Kalispell Ward 3 council seat

A recount for the Kalispell City Council Ward 3 election will take place at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 16, in the South Campus Building conference room in Kalispell.

Fatal house fire being investigated for arson

Two men died in a massive house fire Sunday near Columbia Falls that is now being investigated by an arson team.

Law roundup: Visitor not welcome to take a seat

A woman requested assistance from Kalispell Police Department when her ex reportedly showed up with “the new girlfriend” and they began arguing over belongings, specifically, a chair.

Letters to the editor Nov. 15

Letters to the editor Nov. 15

Nonprofit leader reflects on year of growth

Mandy Anderson was eight months pregnant when she took over as the executive director of the Boys and Girls Club of Glacier Country last winter.

Whitefish proposes stiff fee increase for short-term rentals

A city proposal to increase the business license fee for a short-term rental unit in Whitefish is the focus of a public hearing at the Whitefish City Council meeting on Monday.

Two Mile Drive housing project on Kalispell agenda

Final plat approval for the first phase of a planned development for 324 apartments on Two Mile Drive will be considered by the Kalispell City Council on Monday evening.

NVH August births

Edith Christine Mills, daughter of Tina and Jeremy Mills of Kalispell, was born Aug. 17, 2021, at North Valley Hospital.

Legals for November, 15 2021

Logan Health Medical births

Kyrie Evelyn Hadley, daughter of Aaron and Lydia Hadley of Kalispell, was born Sept. 19, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center.

Montana Western receives bid to NAIA playoffs

NAIA football

Montana defense dominates Northern Arizona 30-3

Garrett Graves returned an interception 25 yards for a touchdown and Justin Ford picked off a pass for the eighth-straight game and the Montana defense smothered Northern Arizona in a 30-3 win on Saturday.

Antibody infusions a 'game-changer' in fight against Covid

The first wave of Covid-19 peaked in the Flathead Valley exactly a year ago this week. Active cases in the county climbed to nearly 2,500 — the highest of the entire pandemic — and statewide hospitalizations and deaths were rising at an alarming rate.

Richard D. Russell, 73

Richard D. Russell, 73, passed away Oct. 19, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center from Alzheimer’s.

Historic Whitefish home being restored to original grandeur

The 1905 home that Dr. Hugh E. Houston had built on Central Avenue in Whitefish is being restored to its original grandeur.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Sacrifices of veterans hit close to home

The country may be divided in some ways, but the sacrifices made by our veterans ensure we have an opportunity to differ on some issues.

5 steps to take when purchasing a car online

5 Steps to Take When Purchasing a Car Online

Tech startup provides internet alternative

Jeff DuPuy, a local tech enthusiast, is spearheading the deployment of a radio system called Helium that acts as an alternative to traditional internet services.

NVH August births

Christopher Robert Allen, son of Decoda Allen and Savanna Claude of Columbia Falls, was born Aug. 11, 2021, at North Valley Hospital.

At 95, veteran keeps busy making ornate walking sticks

As a way to pass the time during the Covid-19 pandemic, a 95-year-old U.S. Navy veteran began looking for a new hobby to keep him busy and creative and started making walking sticks.

Stuart William Swenson, 84

Stuart William Swenson, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away quietly Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021.

Support for VA hospitals and lowering health care costs

Our health care system has been pushed to the brink over the last year and a half.

Jean Carolyn Giffin, 78

Jean Carolyn Giffin, who was born on April 1, 1943, in Romeo, Michigan, went to be with her Savior Lord Jesus on Oct. 10, 2021, in Kalispell.

Democrats push for paid family leave ahead of critical votes

Democrats push for paid family leave ahead of critical votes

Law roundup: Resident gets dirt on trespasser

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report from a Marion resident who allegedly ran a truck off his property with a deer hunting rifle after the trespasser reportedly dumped a truckload of dirt by his boat.

Ralph Brian Peck, 74

Brian Peck passed away at home with support from hospice on Nov. 7, 2021, after a short battle with cancer.

Legals for November, 14 2021

e-commerce mattress maker Casper sold for about $308 million

e-commerce mattress maker Casper sold for about $308 million

New congressional boundaries fair and rational

While other states tussle with attempted power grabs through the ongoing congressional redistricting process, Montanans can be proud to have steered clear of manipulated boundaries that slither across the state with the sole purpose of political gain.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Flathead Business Watercooler

Why would you say no?

I’m running to be the next member of Congress from Montana’s eastern district because I’ve devoted my life to this state’s people, land and wildlife.

Ronald F. Griepp, 65

Ronald F. Griepp, 65, passed peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on Oct. 27, 2021, at St. Peter's Hospital, Helena.

Reports: Trump selling DC hotel to investment firm for $375M

Reports: Trump selling DC hotel to investment firm for $375M

School enrollment rebounds from pandemic decline

Public school enrollment is on the rebound in Flathead County following a decline brought on by the pandemic.

Venture Boldly campaign markets Kalispell brand

At the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce’s annual Grand Event on Nov. 10, the Chamber and Discover Kalispell unveiled “Venture Boldly,” a new campaign for marketing the town.

Key reason for supply shortages: Americans keep spending

Key reason for supply shortages: Americans keep spending

Bright horizon: How partnership improves sustainability in Glacier Park

Unless you happened to visit the headquarters building at Glacier National Park during a handful of days in June, you would have no idea about the future-changing work that took place there.

Mellott's late TD run gets Montana State past Idaho 20-13

Quarterback Tommy Mellott ran for his third touchdown with 2:16 remaining and Montana State held off Idaho for a 20-13 victory on Saturday in a key Big Sky Conference matchup.

Class B football: Bigfork grinds out 7-3 win in Eureka

George Bucklin had a 3-yard scoring run with 9:08 left in the game, and Bigfork held on for a 7-3 win over Eureka in the State B football semifinals Saturday.

Class A football: Locomotives put a stop to the Pirates’ season

Kyson Moran threw for two touchdowns and ran for another, and Laurel held down Polson for a 28-14 victory Saturday in a State A semifinal football game.

Unbeaten CMR wins state AA volleyball crown

Great Falls C.M. Russell capped off an unbeaten season and claimed the state AA volleyball title with a win over Billings West on Saturday.

Ralph Brian Peck, 74

Brian Peck passed away at home with support from hospice on Nov. 7, 2021, after a short battle with cancer.

Law roundup: Ominous threat scares Kalispell man

A man who was afraid of “big money on the East Coast” told the Kalispell Police Department “my life is being threatened by two big corporations and I don’t have time to explain it right now.”

State Supreme Court upholds Bad Rock fire hall ruling

The Montana Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the Bad Rock Fire Department in a suit whereby a rural Columbia Falls attorney claimed she owned the property the department’s south hall sits on.

Letters to the editor Nov. 13

Letters to the editor Nov. 13

Legals for November, 13 2021

Kalispell man accused of pointing gun at women

A Kalispell man was arrested after he allegedly pointed a handgun at a woman, her daughter and grandchild while they walked on the street in Coram.

PHOTOS: Glacier falls to Sentinel, 42-21

Photos from Glacier's matchup with Missoula Sentinel in the Class AA high school football semifinals at MCPS Stadium in Missoula on Friday, Nov. 12.

Adam Jones, Spartans end Wolfpack’s season

The Wolfpack’s playoff run came to a screeching halt Friday night at MCPS Stadium, and playing the stopper was Missoula Sentinel’s Adam Jones.

Bravettes finish 5th at volleyball state tournament

The Flathead Bravettes kept their season alive Friday with a consolation round win against conference rival Butte but fell to Billings Senior later in the day to end their season with a 5th place finish at the AA state tournament.

Pirates’ reward: Semifinal clash with defending champs

The Polson Pirates’ reward for beating perennial power Billings Central by three touchdowns last Saturday is playing the team that beat Central by two touchdowns in October.

Lions, Vikings battle for B title game berth

Bigfork and Eureka have developed quite the rivalry over the years, in what used to be District 7-B and is now the Western B, and now comes a football game that means a little bit more.

Appeals court: Montana ballot access law unconstitutional

Part of a Montana election law that states how many signatures minor parties must gather for their candidates to appear on ballots is unconstitutional, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has ruled.

Helena synagogue building set to return to Jewish community

The Jewish community in Montana's state capital has not had a place to gather in 80 years. But a group of Helena Jews is set to change that by buying back the old synagogue that was built more than a century ago and sold soon after for $1.

Rain, floods prompt Coast Guard rescues in Pacific Northwest

The U.S. Coast Guard used two helicopters to rescue campers from rising waters at an RV park on the Oregon Coast Friday, mudslides shut down roads and a woman was plucked from a swollen river as a second day of heavy rains and flooding pummeled the Pacific Northwest.

Fight over wolf protections heads to federal courtroom

U.S. government attorneys will appear before a federal judge Friday to defend a decision from the waning days of the Trump administration that lifted protections for gray wolves across most of the country, as Republican-led states have sought to drive down wolf numbers through aggressive hunting and trapping.

Glacier sees record visitation in September

Glacier National Park shattered visitation records for September, according to statistics released by the Park last week.

Lost teddy bear finds its way home after year in Glacier

Almost a year after being lost on Glacier National Park's Hidden Lake Trail, Naomi Pascal's stuffed bear, Teddy, has been reunited with its owner.

Please learn from my son’s unnecessary death

Recently, I and several dozen others filled the Life Covenant Church in Helena for a service to honor the memory of a wonderful human being, loved by most all who knew him and unfortunately taken from this earth much too young by the Covid-19 virus.

Law roundup: Laboratory owner gives mixed signals

A man in Hungry Horse told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office he was running an “internal laboratory” and he warned the department to operate at “200%.”

Ralph Brian Peck, 74

Brian Peck passed away at home with support from hospice on Nov. 7, 2021, after a short battle with cancer.

Spotted Bear timber harvest project proposed

The Flathead National Forest Spotted Bear District is seeking public comment on a proposed timber project in the South Fork Flathead River watershed near Spotted Bear Mountain.

Setting the record straight on the Equal Access to Justice Act

Mr. Larson’s column (Another forest project, another lawsuit, Nov. 7) erroneously claimed that the Alliance for the Wild Rockies gets rich off the Equal Access to Justice Act for working to keep Montana “high, wide and handsome.”

Betty Lou McWhorter Jones, 89

Betty Lou McWhorter Jones, 89, went home to her Savior on Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021 at 9 p.m. in Deer Park, Washington, where she lived with her daughter Ellen and husband Rich for the last 17 years.

Legals for November, 12 2021

Flathead, Glacier spikers still alive at state tourney

Flathead and Glacier started off the first day of the All-Class State volleyball tournament with losses Thursday, but each has a chance to play its way back to the podium.

Glacier’s Luke Bilau has made the most of a move from QB

There was a point not that long ago that Glacier tight end Luke Bilau was a signal-caller. He was tall, had the arm and played the position in junior high and his freshman year.

Wolfpack gets another shot at Spartans in semifinal

A gnarly Missoula Sentinel defense got its sternest test on Sept. 17, in the Spartans 29-21 win over Glacier: Nobody has scored more against the defending State AA football champs this season.

Crow delegation honors Tomb of Unknown Soldier at centennial

The mid-Atlantic air is in the crisp 40s at 7 a.m. Dew sits on cars, and the grass, white steps and walkway to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier sparkle in the golden sunrise.

Report: Outdoor recreation added $2.2B to Montana economy in 2020

While Montana’s outdoor recreation economy wasn’t spared the pandemic-spurred losses that swept the globe in 2020, it remained a cornerstone of the state’s economy, according to a report released today by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. Outdoor recreation accounted for 4.3% of Montana’s GDP last year — a higher percentage than any other state.

Betty Lou McWhorter Jones, 89

Betty Lou McWhorter Jones, 89, went home to her Savior on Sunday, Nov. 7, 2021 at 9 p.m. in Deer Park, Washington, where she lived with her daughter Ellen and husband Rich for the last 17 years.

Bigfork man gets prison time for sexually assaulting girl

A Bigfork man is headed to state prison for sexually assaulting a 9-year-old girl.

Fall Mack Days enters final weekend

A total of 12,939 lake trout have been entered to date.

State commission seeks comment on grizzly relocation sites

Senate Bill 337, which was passed by the 2021 legislature, requires the Fish and Wildlife Commission to approve all sites where grizzly bears will be relocated by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Mark Andrew McCullough, 60

Mark Andrew McCullough passed unexpectedly on Oct. 27, 2021, at the age of 60 in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Glacier Symphony premieres conductor John Zoltek’s cello concerto

The 39th season of the Glacier Symphony and Chorale celebrates the 25th anniversary of the leadership of Maestro John Zoltek as music director and conductor with the upcoming concert titled “Illumination” Nov. 20 and 21.

1111 TWIF Briefs

Levitation Nation presents its student showcase Sunday

Law roundup: Friday night fun at the bar

Someone was concerned that a mother allegedly had her 6-year-old child with her at a bar Friday night. The pair were gone before Columbia Falls Police Department arrived.

Wolfpack Theatre’s ‘110 Stories’ captures essence of 9/11

In the wake of the 20th anniversary of the tragic events of 9/11, the Wolfpack Theatre Company will present “110 Stories: The Untold Stories of 9/11” Nov. 16, 17 and 20. Curtain time is 6:33 p.m. in the Wolfpack Theatre at Glacier High School.

New Warren Miller movie screens in Whitefish this weekend

The Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation (FVSEF) presents the pre-season Warren Miller movie “Winter Starts Now” Nov. 13 and 14 at the O’Shaughnessy Performing Arts Center.

Gini Ogle featured at Phillips Studio & Gallery in November

Phillips Studio & Gallery is featuring the contemporary works of Gini Ogle in her exhibit titled “Close to Home.”

FHS Theatre presents magical, comic adventure for young audiences

With the help of a magical storyteller and a little imagination, the ordinary becomes the extraordinary in Flathead High School Theatre Department’s presentation of “The Brave Little Tailor” Nov. 17 and 18 at 6:27 p.m. in the David M. Hashley Theatre at FHS.

Port Polson Players present 'No Coward's Epitaph'

Port Polson Players, in association with the Mission Valley Friends of the Arts, present the world premiere “No Coward’s Epitaph,” a musical tribute honoring the life and legacy of Thomas Francis Meagher.

Historian Doug Ammons presents “Dynamic Montana in Time Lapse”

The Northwest Montana History Museum welcomes back Doug Ammons, who will give an innovative, visual presentation on how Montana has changed over time, at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 14.

Kalispell veteran's autobiography reveals life of intrigue, adventure

His life experience sound like something from a spy movie, but Kalispell's Steve Luckey's tales from the Marine Corps and as FBI counterterrorism asset are all true.

Legals for November, 11 2021

Man accused of knife assault on Rails to Trails

Virgil Antoine Phillips is no stranger to the criminal justice system in the Flathead Valley.

Jeffrey P. Emory, 79

Jeffrey P. Emory, 79, passed away Nov. 4, 2021, at his home in Kalispell with his family by his side.

Hunter's dream season is here

The best half of our five-week deer rifle season is ahead.

Tom Esch awarded Kalispell Chamber's highest honor

The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce doled out annual awards at the Grand Event on Wednesday night.

Glacier, Flathead wind up for State AA volleyball

Volleyball is back at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse in Bozeman after a one-year hiatus of the Montana All-class tournament.

COLUMN: Flathead sees rare pair head to Division I

It is once again Signing Day Ceremony Season, and Flathead High had a nice one Wednesday to celebrate two future Division I athletes in swimmer Lily Milner and wrestler Fin Nadeau.

Glacier Park Supt. Mow to retire at end of year

Glacier National Park Superintendent Jeff Mow will retire at the end of the year.

Tribes, groups sue to force Montana to enforce mining law

Montana tribes and conservation groups sued state environmental regulators Wednesday after Gov. Greg Gianforte's administration dropped a legal claim against a mining executive over decades of pollution from several mines.

Trump endorses GOP rival of Idaho incumbent governor

Former President Donald Trump has endorsed Republican Lt. Gov. Janice McGeachin over incumbent Republican Gov. Brad Little in the 2022 race for governor.

Flathead County names new planning director

Interim Flathead County Planning and Zoning Director Erik Mack has been hired to fill the director position that was vacated by Mark Mussman in July.

Montana primed for infrastructure infusion

The U.S. House of Representatives approved a sprawling $1.2 trillion infrastructure package late last week, setting the stage for a massive federal investment in Montana’s highways, bridges, water systems and broadband capabilities.

Legals for November, 10 2021

Whitefish Community Foundation announces fall grant awards

Whitefish Community Foundation awarded $41,880 to 13 Flathead Valley nonprofit organizations during the 2021 Fall Community Grant cycle.

David Frank Kropp, 70

David Frank Kropp, born Nov. 9, 1950, in Tuxedo, New York, passed from complications of Covid-19 on Nov. 4, 2021.

Effort to preserve Troy Cemetery aims to honor town's history

Walking among the graves of the legends and laypeople who helped build Troy, Mayor Dallas Carr says he feels a link with the city’s past he hasn’t been able to find anywhere else.

Law roundup: Man tries to assault people with knife

Kalispell Police Department responded to a report of a tall man who allegedly climbed someone’s fence and tried to stab them with a knife that had a six-inch blade.

​​LeRoy Curtis Aasheim, 80

​​LeRoy Curtis Aasheim, 80, passed away at Logan Health (Kalispell Regional Medical Center) Nov. 5, 2021.

County elections workers say new elections system needs work, ask for delay

Citing “red flags” identified in a rollout, county election leaders are asking the Montana Secretary of State to make sure glitches with a new elections management system are ironed out and for a chance to fully test it — with successful results — before firing it up across the state.

Kathleen Cecilia (Nelson) Galle, 69

Kathleen Cecilia (Nelson) Galle was 69 years old. She died unexpectedly, yet peacefully, at one of her favorite places, Bitterroot Lake, on Nov 6, 2021, of what we believe to be a heart attack.

Veterans present suicide prevention strategy to Kalispell council

The Veterans Coalition of Northwest Montana gave a training on suicide prevention during the Kalispell City Council’s work session on Monday evening.

John Paul 'Jack' Feeken, 88

John Paul “Jack” Feeken, 88, passed away on Oct. 13, 2021, at his home in Whitefish, with his son and daughter by his side.

Big Sky notes: A few words about Mr. Andersen

Saturday’s game in Bozeman will feature all the current Big Sky Conference players of the week: Idaho running back Roshaun Johnson, Montana State linebacker Troy Andersen and MSU punter Bryce Leighton.

Dems disappointed with final Montana congressional districts

A new map dividing Montana into two congressional districts for the first time in three decades was finalized Tuesday, triggering disappointment from Democrats who hoped to craft a different western district that would give them a better chance of winning in an increasingly Republican-dominated state.

Browning woman dies after being struck by vehicle

According to Montana Highway Patrol, the 32-year-old woman was walking at about 8:56 p.m. when she was struck by a 2004 Chevy Silverado driven by a 29-year-old Browning man.

Hunting expected to improve in coming weeks

Montana’s general hunting season is hitting the midway point and the overall harvest is expected to increase with the onset of the deer breeding season in the coming weeks, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks said Monday.

Montana soldier is 1st female Army sniper course graduate

A Montana soldier is the first woman to graduate from the U.S. Army's sniper course, the Montana National Guard announced.

Whitefish man to plead guilty in federal fraud case

A Whitefish man accused of several federal charges in relation to a fraudulent scheme against a Northwest Montana businessman is scheduled to plead guilty in court Wednesday.

Legals for November, 9 2021

Donald Dean Watson, 93

Donald Dean Watson, 93, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully at his home on Oct. 27, 2021.

Open house planned for U.S. 93 work north of Ronan

The Montana Department of Transportation invites the public to an open house to learn about the final design of the reconstruction of about 1.7 miles of U.S. 93, just north of Ronan.

Law roundup: Property not to be used as a potty

A man at the warming center allegedly “pooped on the property” and refused to leave when asked.

Mary (Rognlien) Salsbury, 76

Mary passed Nov. 7, 2021, at 76 years old in Whitehall, Montana, surrounded by her daughters.

Montana man accused of kidnapping daughter

A Northwest Montana man has been arrested for allegedly kidnapping his non-custodial daughter last weekend in Kansas.

Clayton Thomas LaChance

Clayton “Clay” LaChance was always at the center of a great story, and his story began on a snowy morning in March.

Jerald 'Jerry' Leland Sonju, 77

Jerald “Jerry” Leland Sonju, loving father, brother and grandpa, passed away at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle on Oct. 31, 2021, at the age of 77.

Veterans Day programs planned throughout the Flathead

Veterans will be honored at several locations throughout the Flathead Valley for Veterans Day on Thursday.

Columbia Falls wins Class A speech tourney

Columbia Falls High School won their first Class A tournament of the season in Hamilton Saturday.

Rock solid: Columbia Falls couple still digging up precious stones

Jan and Murry Graham have spent decades in pursuit of precious stones.

State launches cybersecurity contests for students

Montana is partnering with national organizations to promote cybersecurity awareness among K-12 students with two competitions.

Free virtual conference focuses on progress, gaps in local food systems

AERO, the Alternative Energy Resources Organization based in Helena, is holding its annual statewide EXPO conference as a virtual event Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 10 to 14.

Whitefish, Columbia Falls dominate All-State soccer

High School soccer

Northwest Montana man dies in Sanders County crash

A 37-year-old Haugan, Montana, man died in a traffic crash early Monday morning in Sanders County.

Fair Board chair hired to manage fairgrounds

Flathead County Fair Board Chairman Sam Nunnally has been hired as the new manager of the county fairgrounds. He replaces retiring manager Mark Campbell effective Nov. 29.

Donald Dean Watson, 93

Donald Dean Watson, 93, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully at his home on Oct. 27, 2021.

Letters to the editor Nov. 8

Letters to the editor Nov. 8

Legals for November, 8 2021

NVH births

Beau Michael Piper, son of Elise and Michael Piper of Columbia Falls, was born July 7, 2021, at North Valley Hospital.

Flathead Valley PBL team home opener is June 14

The Pioneer Baseball League released its 96-game schedule Thursday, and the expansion Flathead Valley squad will have its home opener on June 14 against the Billings Mustangs.

Land protection specialist works to protect 'special places'

When nature and wildlife enthusiasts enjoy public access in the Flathead Valley, Laura Katzman is one of the people they can thank.

Law roundup: Bus driver cheesed off at tasteless prank

An out-of-town high school bus driver told the Kalispell Police Department that American cheese slices had been thrown all over the outside of the bus while it was parked at a motel.

Pesenta 'Senna' Fagal, 67

Pesenta “Senna” Fagal passed away Nov. 3, 2021.

Sherry Lynne Adler

Sherry Lynne Adler passed away on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021, at Rising Mountains Assisted Living in Bigfork.

Three shot dead at Montana casino near North Dakota border

Three people are dead after a reported shooting at a casino near the border of Montana and North Dakota, police said.

Kalispell veteran recalls service on destroyer U.S.S. Healy

At age 99, Arnold Peterson of Kalispell has seen a lot, but nothing compares to his days aboard the destroyer U.S.S. Healy in the Pacific during the height of World War II.

Pirates plunder Rams

Polson outpaces Billings Central to go 10-0

Building a three-touchdown advantage in the third quarter can lead to some serious clock-squeezing, B-gap running offense for any football team. That’s not Polson’s style.

Big plays lead Bigfork into semis

George Bucklin’s 45-yard scoring run with 11:39 left in the game put Bigfork ahead, and the Vikings held on for a 20-15 State B quarterfinal football win at Townsend Saturday.

Flathead spikers second at Western AA divisional

Glacier works its way into third place

The Flathead Bravettes matched up well with the Missoula Sentinel Spartans in the Western AA divisional championship game, but fell in four games Saturday, 15-25, 25-23, 25-16, 25-19.

Governor’s workforce program whiffs on retention

Gov. Greg Gianforte announced last week that Montana will tap into federal Covid-19 relief funding to jump-start a program aimed at recruiting out-of-state health care workers.

Rosemary Pederson, 94

Rosemary Pederson, 94, went home to be with her Lord Jesus Oct. 21, 2021. S

Spot to Talk offers equine therapy as mental-health resource

Adolescent and children’s mental health clinic Spot to Talk in Bigfork hopes its equine-assisted psychotherapy program can be an option for those seeking a different approach to therapy.

Smells like a cover-up

An Associated Press article Oct. 19 featured the headline “Hospital: Public officials threaten doctors over Covid care.”

KLJ Engineering awarded for work on Kalispell Core project

KLJ Engineering LLC recently received the 2022 Engineering Excellence Award from the Montana Chapter of the American Council of Engineering Companies for its work on the Kalispell Core and Rail Redevelopment project.

Ifanse leads big-play Montana St. past E Washington 23-20

Isaiah Ifanse rushed 32 times for 217 yards and a touchdown to key Montana State's big-play offense in a 23-20 win over Eastern Washington on Saturday; a battle of Top 5 FCS teams.

1107 Building permits

OCTOBER BUILDING PERMITS

Legals for November, 7 2021

Eureka drubs Big Timber

Quarterback Caleb Utter ran for 124 yards and four touchdowns, and Eureka built a 35-0 lead on the way to a 47-12 win over Big Timber in the State B quarterfinal game.

Montana hunters need to pay attention to their votes

I am a 68-year-old, retired farmer, fourth-generation Montanan, and a lifelong avid hunter, angler, and conservationist with a degree in wildlife biology and research experience on large predators.

Railroads fight with unions in court over vaccine mandates

Railroads fight with unions in court over vaccine mandates

End of daylight saving time means winter is on the horizon

Winter is on the horizon again with the end of daylight saving time coming Sunday across most of the United States.

Another forest project, another lawsuit

If there is one thing we can depend on, it is Michael Garrity and the Alliance for the Wild Rockies litigating another forest restoration project proposed by the U.S. Forest Service.

C-Falls OKs final plat for The Benches, amid objections

The Columbia Falls City Council approved the final plat for The Benches subdivision last week amid continuing opposition from land-use groups and area residents.

A weekend roaming the woods

It’s been a few years since I’ve been hunting — and when I say “hunting” I mean traipsing 10 paces behind my husband, the one with the gun putting the sneak on the game.

Letters to the editor Nov. 7

Letters to the editor Nov. 7

Humphrey has 4 TDs, Montana blanks Northern Colorado 35-0

Cam Humphrey threw three touchdown passes and ran for another score and Montana rolled to a 35-0 win over Northern Colorado on Saturday.

Air-scrubbing machines gain momentum, but long way to go

Air-scrubbing machines gain momentum, but long way to go

Quarles to leave Fed’s board, giving Biden another slot

Quarles to leave Fed’s board, giving Biden another slot

New supply company offers new and used equipment

Supply company sells restaurant items of every size

JoAnn Thomas, 94

JoAnn Thomas passed into the presence of the Lord on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021.

NVH births

Archer Everette Whitehead, son of Matt and Amy Whitehead of Minot, North Dakota, was born Sept. 24, 2021, at Trinity Hospital.

Anticipation high as Eureka prepares for border opening

Anticipation is running high in Eureka with the U.S. border set to open Monday to travelers from Canada, but some are worried the vaccine and Covid-19 testing requirements present obstacles for those looking to make short trips across the border.

Judie K. Stewart, 78

Judith “Judie” Katharine (Van Winkle) Stewart left this earthly life on Oct. 31, 2021, at the age of 78.

Don’t let shortages spoil your holiday shopping

If you’re waiting until Black Friday to start your holiday shopping, there may not be much left.

Musk: I’ll sell 10% of Tesla stock based on Twitter poll

Musk: I’ll sell 10% of Tesla stock based on Twitter poll

Donald Dean Watson, 93

Donald Dean Watson, 93, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully at his home on Oct. 27, 2021.

Law roundup: Flock of chickens fly the coop

Chickens were running up and down the road and a woman was afraid dogs would get them.

PHOTOS: Polson advances with 49-28 win over Billings Central

Photos from Polson's 49-28 win over Billings Central in a Class A quarterfinal round playoff game at Polson High School on Saturday, Nov. 6.

House OKs $1 trillion infrastructure package

President Joe Biden on Saturday hailed Congress' passage of his $1 trillion infrastructure package as a "monumental step forward for the nation" after fractious fellow Democrats resolved a months-long standoff in their ranks to seal the deal.

Bravettes punch ticket to state

​​The Flathead Bravettes hit a couple milestones Friday night at the Glacier High School gym — not only did they advance to the Western AA Divisional volleyball final but they punched a ticket to the state tournament for the first time since 2018 with a five-set victory over Helena High.

4 Glacier boys selected All-State for AA soccer

Zane Elliot, John Pyron, Elijah Mildren and Burke Fox of Glacier were all named All-State for AA boys soccer this week, in voting by Western AA coaches.

Area gridders gird for quarterfinals

As Polson gears up for a State A quarterfinal football game today, several things stand out about opponent Billings Central.

Rendina, Pack surge past Bulldogs, 35-26

Jake Rendina ran for 228 yards and three touchdowns, Jake Turner tore off a 44-yard scoring run and Glacier blocked an extra point in a 35-26 State AA football win over Butte Friday night.

Joan E. (Ramlow) Pemble, 71

Joan Pemble died at her home in Caldwell, Idaho, on Oct. 31, 2021, from a malignant brain tumor.

Letters to the editor Nov. 6

Letters to the editor Nov. 6

Legals for November, 6 2021

Law roundup: Bears and garbage still a problem in Whitefish

Someone called the Whitefish Police Department after a bear got into a neighbor’s garbage and dragged it onto a neighbor’s property.

Traffic signal box project adds color to Kalispell streets

The traffic signal boxes in downtown Kalispell are doing more than stopping traffic these days — they’re stopping passersby pausing to admire their new and unexpected artistic flare.

County approves new commission district boundaries

The Flathead County commissioners on Thursday finalized new commission district boundaries based on population growth throughout the county.

Fired Montana dishwasher pleads not guilty to stabbings

A judge on Friday set a $1 million bond for a Montana man accused of stabbing and cutting his former co-workers after after being fired from a dishwashing job at a restaurant.

Clifford 'John/Johnny' Arthur Ramsbacher, 83

Clifford "John/Johnny" Arthur Ramsbacher passed away peacefully on Oct. 29, 2021, at the age of 83 in Polson.

Lawsuits over workplace vaccine rule focus on states' rights

More than two dozen Republican-led states filed lawsuits Friday challenging President Joe Biden's vaccine requirement for private companies, setting up a high-stakes legal showdown pitting federal authority against states' rights.

Legals for November, 5 2021

Whitefish taking applications for municipal judge

The city of Whitefish is soliciting applications to fill the job of municipal judge following the death of the judge who held the position.

Cayuse Prairie educator receives teaching award from UM

Cayuse Prairie School third-grade teacher Shannon Limberis exemplifies excellence in the classroom through enthusiasm, patience, kindness, dedication and leadership.

Halt Cancer initiative awards grants to local nonprofits

Halt Cancer at X, a charitable initiative of Montana Equestrian Events, continued its mission to better the lives of cancer patients and survivors by recently awarding more than $58,000 in community grants to local nonprofits.

Law roundup: Clever horse knows how to open gate

A horse escaped the pasture because it knew how to open the gate.

Whitefish affordable housing project moves forward

The Whitefish Housing Authority is moving forward with plans to develop the property known as the snow lot into a townhouse project.

Study shows how invasive species affect lakes

Invasive species cause biodiversity loss and about $120 billion in annual damages in the U.S. alone. Despite plentiful evidence that invasive species can change food webs, how invaders disrupt food webs and native species over time has remained unclear.

Mavis Irene Heil McNamara, 84

Mavis Irene Heil McNamara passed away on Oct. 29, 2021.

Veteran benefits expanded for federal recreation areas

While the Interagency Annual Military Pass for federal recreation areas already was available to active duty military members and their dependents, the new program, which went into effect on Veterans Day 2020, benefits veterans and Gold Star Families indefinitely.

Polson, Corvallis nail down State A berths

The host Thompson Falls Bluehawks won two matches Western B, giving them a good shot at landing one of two spots the division has at the State B tournament next week.

Wolfpack falls to Bulldogs in three

Sidney Gulick did some heavy lifting for the Glacier Wolfpack Thursday at the Western AA Divisional tournament but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Butte Bulldogs, who won 3-0.

Moy shines as Bravettes sweep Bruins

The Sterck sisters, Savanna and Sienna, and Akilah Kubi tended to steal the stat lines as the Flathead Bravettes’ volleyball season gained steam.

Glacier heads back to Butte seeking better outcome

The Glacier Wolfpack’s last visit to Naranche Stadium didn’t end well: A fourth-quarter interception and a safety set the stage for Butte’s 20-17 win on Oct. 8.

Montana commission finalizes congressional district lines

Montana's redistricting commission chair selected on Thursday a congressional district map proposed by Republicans, dealing a blow to Democrats who hoped to craft a western district that would give them a better chance of winning.

Kalispell warrant arrest draws big police response

Local law enforcement converged on the North Meridian Road area of Kalispell on Thursday evening while officers attempted to make a warrant arrest on a wanted person, authorities said.

Kids' Covid shots available at Flathead clinic

The Flathead City-County Health Department will begin administering Covid-19 vaccinations for children ages 5 to 11 next week.

Lawsuit: NRA illegally funded Rosendale campaign

A federal lawsuit accuses the National Rifle Association of violating campaign finance laws by using shell companies to illegally funnel up to $35 million to Republican candidates, including former President Donald Trump, Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri, U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale of Montana, and others.

Fired steakhouse worker accused of cutting former co-workers

A man who was fired from a Billings steakhouse returned to the restaurant hours later, grabbed some knives from the kitchen and cut or stabbed some of his former co-workers while demanding money, police said.

‘Fabled’ offers musicals, dance to live audiences at UM

The University of Montana’s schools of theater, dance and music will return to a live-audience production with “Fabled,” an event featuring five short musicals and two dance pieces.

Gini Ogle art exhibit is featured Phillips Studio & Gallery

Phillips Studio & Gallery is featuring the contemporary works of guest artist, Gini Ogle in her exhibit titled, “Close to Home.”

WTC presents the fresh comedy ‘The Siegel’

The Whitefish Theatre Co. presents its second Black Curtain theatre production of the 2021-2022 season with “The Siegel” by Michael Mitnick at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish, with performances at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6 and 7.

Colin Powell: What might have been

My one brief experience with presidential politics occurred in 1995.

Veronica Jeanne Dunfee, 85

On Oct. 31, 2021, the gates of heaven opened wide for the arrival of a tiny, but mighty, spunky redhead named Veronica Jeanne Dunfee.

Frederick J. Hammel, 80

Frederick J. Hammel, 80, passed away at his home in Kalispell Oct. 9, 2021.

1104 TWIF Briefs

Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theater announce auditions for ‘Elf’

WHS Drama Club stages ‘Twelve Angry Jurors’

Whitefish High School Drama Club will be staging a production of the classic drama “Twelve Angry Jurors” today, and Nov. 5 and 6 at the Black Box Theatre at the high school.

Letters to the editor Nov. 4

Letters to the editor Nov. 4

Law roundup: Minor bus accident in Whitefish

A school bus transporting Whitefish School District students was involved in a minor hit-and-run Wednesday morning at the intersection of Conn Road and Montana 40. No injuries were reported among students and staff.

Big game harvest remains high across Northwest Montana

A total of 219 white-tailed deer, including 121 bucks, have been reported at check stations across the region. A total of 36 mule deer and 32 elk have also been reported.

Construction underway for Pioneer League stadium

There’s a general manager, a manager and also a couple of players in place for Kalispell’s fledgling Pioneer Baseball team.

Gianforte nixed a kids’ vaccine campaign, so health officials plan their own

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte’s administration quashed plans for a public service campaign to promote covid-19 vaccinations for eligible teenagers over the summer, a former state health official said.

Legals for November, 4 2021

Benson regains lead in Fall Mack Days Tourney

The last of the three Bucket of Fish Days is Sunday, Nov. 7. Weights are taken from the four heaviest fish under 30 inches.

Evergreen sidewalk fundraising goes the distance

Evergreen sidewalk fundraising goes the distance

MTPR airs Public Radio Music Day Nov. 10

Public radio music stations play an essential role in the music industry, connecting artists with new audiences and helping listeners discover new music.

State clarifies license use during muzzleloader season

The clarification states that any unused license-permit valid on the last day of the general season (i.e., Nov. 28, 2021) would be valid during the muzzleloader heritage season (Dec. 11 to 19, 2021).

Glacier Chorale returns live with inspiring choral repertoire

Two special MasterWorks concerts will be performed during November for the 39th season of the Glacier Symphony and Chorale, with the first showcasing the Glacier Chorale under the direction of Micah Hunter Nov. 13 and 14 in performances titled “Reflection.”

Dave Samuel Coulter, 62

Dave Samuel Coulter, 62, passed away Oct. 23, 2021.

Big game harvest numbers remain high

The big game harvest in Northwest Montana remains high through two weekends of the general hunting season, according to check station data.

Schools leader wants rule for opting out of school policies

Montana's elected education leader has said she is crafting a rule that would give parents the ability to opt out of some local school board policies, including mask requirements, after a temporary rule adopted by the health department at the beginning of the school year had little effect.

Field grows in race for Montana's new U.S. House seat

Another Democrat has joined the race for Montana's new U.S. House seat, expanding an already large field before maps to define the boundaries of the congressional seats are finalized.

Group seeks recall of entire Whitefish School Board

Board chair claims effort an unfounded distraction

A group of Whitefish parents and community members have mounted an attempt to recall the entire Whitefish School Board over a decision regarding Covid-19 mitigation, but the school board says it followed state law.

Evergreen sidewalk project gets $25,000 from Flathead Electric

Evergreen’s sidewalk project recently got a big boost from Flathead Electric Cooperative with a $25,000 grant.

Legals for November, 3 2021

Flathead ex-con accused of assaulting his children

A Flathead Valley man with a long criminal past is back in custody after authorities allege he assaulted his two sons during a recent incident.

Dispensaries scramble to adjust to unanticipated CBD ban

The Montana Department of Revenue and cannabis industry stakeholders alike were surprised to recently discover that HB 701, the state’s legalization framework bill, prohibits license holders from growing or selling hemp, and by extension, from producing the popular compound cannabidiol, or CBD, which is typically derived from hemp. The ban additionally prohibits license holders from selling any other brand’s CBD wares.

Scouting programs plan events, welcome new members

Although the Covid-19 pandemic impacted youth activities throughout Northwest Montana, Scouting has continued, and activities are planned into the winter months, according to the Northwest District of the Montana Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Shirley G. Olson MacLachlan, 96

Shirley G. Olson MacLachlan, 96, died Oct. 29, 2021, in Kalispell.

Commission pares down wolf trapping season

The geographic and temporal sweep of Montana’s wolf trapping and snaring regulations shrank Thursday when the state Fish and Wildlife Commission approved a measure that brings those regulations into alignment with legal settlements governing management of grizzly bears and Canada lynx, two federally protected species that share habitat with wolves.

Man charged after driving into convenience store

A man who drove into a convenience store on U.S. 93 in Happy Valley Saturday night reportedly was considering taking his life during a fight with his girlfriend.

Veronica Jeanne Dunfee, 85

On Oct. 31, 2021, the gates of heaven opened wide for the arrival of a tiny, but mighty, spunky redhead named Veronica Jeanne Dunfee.

Frederick J. Hammel, 80

Frederick J. Hammel, 80, passed away at his home in Kalispell Oct. 9, 2021.

Law roundup: Nothing sinister about abandoned pink blanket

A woman reportedly told the Kalispell Police Department she saw a pink blanket with hair by a daycare. and she and her friend were afraid it was a baby or a sex trafficking trap.

Shirley Anne Marsh, 97

Shirley Anne Marsh, 97, residing in Kalispell, died on Oct. 30, 2021.

Election results: Johnson re-elected Kalispell mayor; Whitefish renews resort tax

Mark Johnson easily secured a third term as Kalispell mayor with a decisive victory Tuesday.

Keeper Xu among 4 first-team all-Big Sky picks for Grizzlies

Montana redshirt freshman Camellia Xu, a six-time league defensive layer of the Week during the regular season, was named the Big Sky Conference Goalkeeper of the Year Monday in voting by the league’s coaches.

Big Sky notes: Red letter Saturday for MSU

The Big Sky Conference game of the week is an easy call: No. 4 Montana State visits No. 5 Eastern Washington Saturday, on the red turf of Roos Field.

Hollis May to coach Wolfpack girls track

Glacier High School has selected its new girls track coach, and pending school board approval it will be longtime teacher and coach Hollis May.

U.S. gives final clearance to Covid-19 shots for kids 5 to 11

U.S. health officials on Tuesday gave the final signoff to Pfizer's kid-size COVID-19 shot, a milestone that opens a major expansion of the nation's vaccination campaign to children as young as 5.

Montana School Boards Association leaving national group

The Montana School Boards Association has voted to leave the National School Boards Association next summer, saying the organization has lost its focus in supporting local school boards offering professional development and advocating for quality education.

Aggressive customers prompt changes at Idaho liquor stores

Instances of hoarding, illegal reselling and bad behavior by customers have caused the state agency that sells alcohol to change how it rolls out rare spirits at stores, officials said.

Idaho gets OK to license farmers to grow, transport hemp

U.S. officials have approved Idaho's plan for growing and transporting hemp with up to 0.3% THC, the cannabis compound that gives marijuana its high.

Woman faces deliberate homicide charge in pedestrian death

A western Montana woman has been charged with deliberate homicide after Lake County officials said it appeared she intentionally struck a woman with her car, killing her.

US says oil, gas sales damage climate -- but won't stop them

The Biden administration is planning to sell oil and gas leases on huge tracts of public land in the U.S. West, despite the Interior Department's conclusion that doing so could cost society billions of dollars in climate change impacts.

Municipal elections underway today

It’s municipal election day in Flathead County.

Law roundup: Where the rubber meets the road

A man was spotted stealing a neighbor’s tires by someone who yelled at him. He reportedly dropped the tires and put the white sneakers and blue windbreaker he was wearing to good use and took off running.

Legals for November, 2 2021

‘Let’s glow’ — Run raises money, awareness for suicide prevention

Runners and walkers lit up Saturday night at a Glow Run to benefit the Nate Chute Foundation for suicide prevention.

Lincoln County Sheriff's deputy recovering from Covid

After nearly losing his life to Covid-19, Ben Fisher has changed his mind about getting vaccinated against the virus.

Glacier and Flathead kick off speech season in 1st, 2nd

Glacier and Flathead high schools are off to a running start, securing first and second place at the Kalispell Kickoff speech and debate tournament.

Flathead High Honor Society inductees announced

Forty-nine students were inducted into the Flathead High School National Honor Society chapter Oct. 27.

Proposed housing project includes burger, lube businesses

A multi-faceted development proposal up for the Kalispell Planning Board’s consideration would incorporate the existing Mudman Burgers restaurant and a new Jiffy Lube business on U.S. 2 into a new residential development.

State wraps up Kalispell ADA sidewalk projects

All of the major Kalispell American Disabilities Act construction projects have been completed, and traffic lanes are now open in all three zones, the Montana Department of Transportation said.

Wildkats down Whitefish in five sets

High School volleyball

Canada lynx to keep species protections under legal deal

U.S. wildlife officials have agreed to keep federal protections in place for the snow-loving Canada lynx, under a court settlement approved Monday by a judge in Montana.

Car crashes into Midway Mini Mart; no one injured

No one was injured when a vehicle going at a high rate of speed plowed into the Midway Mini Mart along U.S. 93 in Happy Valley Saturday evening.

3 killed in crash with semi, SUV made U-turn on interstate

Three men were killed Monday after the sport utility vehicle they were in made a U-turn on Interstate 90 in Billings and pulled into the path of a semitractor-trailer, the Montana Highway Patrol said.

Canadian snowbirds gear up for reopening of US land borders

Canadians Ian and Heather Stewart are savoring the idea of leaving behind this winter's subzero temperatures when the U.S. reopens its borders to nonessential land travel next week and they launch a long-delayed drive to their seasonal home in Fort Myers, Florida.

Man denies deliberate homicide charge in death of girlfriend

A Missoula man who is charged with running over his girlfriend in a grocery store parking lot and killing her pleaded not guilty Monday to deliberate homicide.

Woman struck and killed by vehicle, possibly intentionally

A woman was struck and killed by shortly after she had called Lake County law enforcement to report someone was driving through a field east of Pablo, the sheriff said Monday.

Report: Covid third leading cause of death in Montana

Covid-19 associated deaths were the third leading cause of death in Montana last year, and the same ranking likely will hold true for 2021, according to a new report released by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

PHOTOS: Glow Run fundraiser held for Nate Chute Foundation

Photos from the Flathead Valley Exchange Club and the Northwest Montana Young Professionals Network's Glow Run at Kidsports Complex, held to raise money for the Nate Chute Foundation, a local non-profit dedicated to suicide prevention in Western Montana, on Saturday, Oct. 30.

Whitefish council tackles pot rules, infrastructure projects

The Whitefish City Council on Monday is poised to finalize its game plan on where marijuana dispensaries will be allowed in the city.

Letters to the editor Nov. 1

Letters to the editor Nov. 1

Tommy Edwards brings new music back to the Flathead after stint on 'The Voice'

Local musician Tommy Edwards said he is reinvigorated and more excited than ever to share new music after a stint on NBC’s The Voice. Edwards said the singing competition inspired him to reach for new heights and the Flathead Valley musician returned home with plans for a new concert series and new original music.

Logan Health births

Ellis Grant Brindley, son of Beau and Kaitlyn Brindley of Bigfork, was born Oct. 6, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center.

Kalispell looks at proposals to help low-income residents

Two items on the Kalispell City Council agenda for Monday aim to help the most vulnerable members of the local community.

Legals for November, 1 2021

Law roundup: Man’s stare draws a look of suspicion

Someone allegedly saw a thin man wearing a black trench coat and hood staring into the windows of a residence where no one was home and was yelling and screaming.