Ellington

State hospital patient pleads guilty to killing her mother

A Montana State Hospital patient has pleaded guilty to killing her mother in Great Falls more than four years ago.

Senate approves Biden land-agency pick over GOP opposition

A bitterly divided Senate late Thursday approved President Joe Biden's choice to oversee vast government-owned lands in the West, despite Republican complaints that she is an "eco-terrorist."

Local authorities seize 17 starving horses

The Flathead County Sheriff's Office recently seized 17 horses in various stages of starvation and other health issues from a residence in the Columbia Falls area, and is now asking for help from the community in providing food and blankets for the horses.

Judge delays implementation of new Montana abortion laws

A judge granted Thursday evening a temporary restraining order delaying the implementation of three laws restricting abortion access in Montana, hours before the laws were set to go into effect.

More details emerge in Columbia Falls stabbing incident

More details have emerged in a Columbia Falls stabbing incident that happened earlier this month.

The loudmouths have the floor

Every once in a while we meet people that come into our lives for a short moment, and as short as it might be, they leave a very long impression.

‘The Lion King Jr.’ returns to Bigfork this weekend

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre presents the final weekend of Disney’s “The Lion King Jr.,” its first production of the 2021-2022 season.

'Freddie Mack' still swims the waters of Flathead Lake

Week two of the 2021 Fall Mack Days Fishing Event is in the books with a total of 4,803 lake trout entered by anglers.

Bigfork Independent Film Festival spotlights Montana filmmakers and made-in-Montana films

This year marks the fifth anniversary of the Bigfork Independent Film Festival.

Legals for September, 30 2021

Mary Azure Clairmont Jessen, 85

Mary Azure Clairmont Jessen, 85, passed away Sept. 21, 2021, at St. Luke’s Extended Care.

Donald Hermas Roberge, 81

Donald Hermas Roberge, formerly of Rollins, died peacefully in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on July 31, 2021, in the arms of his loving wife and partner of 33 years, Kitty Taylor Roberge, after a brief hospitalization for pneumonia.

Robert L. Westin Jr., 64

Robert L. Westin Jr., of Kalispell, was called home on Sept. 13, 2021.

DeNae Weimer’s paintings exhibited at Phillips Studio & Gallery

Phillips Studio & Gallery features professional Montana artist DeNae Weimer in her exhibition titled, “Call of the Wild” through Oct. 30.

Outdoors briefs

In January 2021, an individual pleaded guilty in Lake County justice court to unlawfully recovering and possessing the horns and skull of a bighorn sheep from the Wild Horse Island.

Northwest Montana's mule deer are big travelers

Since 2017, FWP biologists have collared and captured 134 mule deer does in three distinct habitats.

Law roundup: Woman goes cuckoo over birdhouse crafter

A woman was so upset to see a man outside making birdhouses that she called officers claiming he was damaging the city bench he was sitting on.

ImagineIF libraries feature two art exhibits

This fall through November, ImagineIF highlights two local artists' displays, Rocky Hoerner and Larry Youmans, at ImagineIF Kalispell and Columbia Falls.

Drive-by shooter receives state prison sentence

A Flathead Valley man involved in a drive-by shooting on the west side of Kalispell four days before Christmas 2019 recently was sentenced to serve time in state prison.

Biden doesn't deserve all the blame

A recent letter to the editor essentially accuses the Biden administration of being plagued by “…stupidity… that has no known cure…”.

UM presents an outdoor dance program on campus this Saturday

The University of Montana Dance Program will launch its 2021-22 season with “Dance on Location,” a site-specific dance concert.

High Plains Book Awards announced

Five Montanans were among the winners in 13 categories chosen from a record 236 nominated works in the 2021 High Plains Book Awards.

0930 TWIF briefs

Hockaday’s renews mask requirements

As Walk to End Alzheimer's nears, a spouse shares her husband's journey with the disease

About halfway through his three-year battle with dementia, Tony Martin, an ordained deacon in the Catholic Church, told his wife Loree that he had had a visitor that day while she was at work.

Montana Master Hunter program signup begins Oct. 1

A primary goal of the program is to build trust and relationships between landowners and sportsmen and sportswomen.

MontanaPBS Charlie Russell documentary takes top award

The MontanaPBS documentary production “Charlie Russell’s Old West” received the 2021 Western Heritage Award for Documentary from the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum during a Sept. 18 black-tie event in Oklahoma City.

Time for Tester to act on reopening border

I’m incredibly disappointed that the Biden Administration has once again decided to keep Montana’s northern border closed for at least another month.

Letters to the editor Sept. 30

Letters to the editor Sept. 30

Columbia Falls resort tax goes into effect Oct. 1

People will pay a little more for some items as the city of Columbia Falls 3% resort tax goes into effect on Friday, Oct. 1.

Wynne, Wolfpack boys eying State AA hardware

Flathead golf coach Roy Antley has five solid players on his girls team as it heads to the State AA tournament beginning today in Bozeman.

Crosstown match comes at perfect time for Bravettes, Pack

This year’s first crosstown volleyball match couldn’t come at a better time for both Flathead and Glacier.

Covid cases stress Logan Health bed capacity

Logan Health Medical Center continues to be challenged by an influx of mostly unvaccinated Covid-19 patients, with the Kalispell hospital routinely approaching or exceeding its bed capacity over the last month.

US says ivory-billed woodpecker, 22 other species extinct

Death's come knocking a last time for the splendid ivory-billed woodpecker and 22 more birds, fish and other species: The U.S. government on Wednesday declared them extinct.

Gloria Johnson, 86

Gloria Johnson passed away Sept. 3, 2021, due to natural causes. She was at her home in Green Valley, Arizona, with her family.

Proposed agreement gives Health Board broader representation

A pivotal change that gives broader representation to the Flathead City-County Board of Health was the focus of a Kalispell City Council work session on Monday.

Charles Roger 'Chuck' Patrick, 78

Charles Roger “Chuck” Patrick, 78, passed away from Covid-19 Friday, Sept. 24, 2021, at Community Hospital in Missoula.

Commissioners restore marina standards in zoning regs

A zoning text amendment that adds marina as a conditional use in the B-3 community business zone was approved last week by the Flathead County commissioners, correcting an error when zoning changes were made in 2018.

Lauralee Drake, 84

Lauralee Drake passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on Sept. 24, 2021, in Kalispell.

FWP wraps up busy season fighting invasive water species

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is wrapping up another busy season working to prevent invasive mussels, snails, clams and aquatic weeds from overrunning lakes and rivers across the state.

Carl Chappell 'Chappy' Krauthoff, 63

Carl Chappell “Chappy” Krauthoff, loving husband, father, brother and friend, was called home by our Lord on Sept. 10, 2021.

Nicolai Siemens, 94

Nicolai Siemens left us on Oct. 7, 2020. He joined God's heavenly choir to sing "How Great Thou Art."

Melvin Clark Hanson, 92

Melvin Clark Hanson went to join his loving bride of 63 and a half years, and enter into the loving presence of his Lord and Savior, on Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021.

Legals for September, 29 2021

Federal grant to aid purchase of new state park at Somers Beach

A 106-acre swath of land on the north shore of Flathead Lake is another step closer to becoming a state park with a hefty federal grant.

Law roundup: Flailing man ‘just being his normal self’

Someone wanted Kalispell Police Department to check on a man’s welfare after they saw him throwing his arms around, waving his shirt, and yelling. Officers checked on the man who was “just being his normal self.”

Michael E. Mullings, 66

Michael E. Mullings, 66, entered into rest on Sept. 25, 2021, in Kalispell.

Rumsey Eash, Ells lead the pack at Whitefish Invite

Sam Ells of Glacier was again supreme, but the host Bulldogs had the best boys team at the Whitefish Invitational cross country meet Tuesday at Whitefish Lake Golf Course.

Bravettes play to draw with Eagles

Mia Stephan scored twice and the Flathead Bravettes nursed a one-goal lead into the final minutes of a Western AA soccer game against Missoula Big Sky on Tuesday, but a late goal by Kelleigh Staples ensured the game ended in a 2-2 draw.

Whitefish spikers get first victory

Brooke Zetooney had seven kills, Emma Trieweiler added five and the Whitefish Bulldogs picked up their first volleyball win of the season Tuesday, beating Browning in straight sets.

Golan tops in state scoring; C-Falls teams sweep Bigfork

Columbia Falls’ Kai Golan became the state’s leading goal scorer Tuesday after scoring two in the Wildcats’ 6-0 romp over the Bigfork Vikings in Northwest A soccer.

Big Sky roundup: Flowers’ kickoff return against Cal Poly was exemplary

After his team lost to the Montana Grizzlies 39-7 Saturday, Cal Poly coach Beau Baldwin talked about how he had screen plays dialed up to beat some Griz blitzes, but that they didn’t quite work out.

Transient man charged with murder in gym shooting

A Kalispell man has been charged with murder in alleged shooting death of the manager of Fuel Fitness in Kalispell nearly two weeks ago.

Info sought on grizzly bear shot south of Seeley Lake

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are investigating the death of a grizzly bear that was shot and killed in the Woodworth area south of Seeley Lake.

UM posts enrollment increase for first time in a decade

Powered by a 30% increase in the incoming class, as well as continued improvement in the retention rate, the institution increased its total enrollment for the first time in a decade.

Montana farm communities mobilize, help train wreck victims

Trevor Fossen was running late for a wedding Saturday afternoon when he turned onto a dusty, gravel road in rural Montana as a westbound train approached the crossing in front of him.

Linda Latka Fields Teets, 68

On Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021, Linda Latka Fields Teets passed away at Billings Clinic due to Covid-19 at age 68.

Cider pressing, gleaning event helps bears and people

The Mission Valley Fruit Gleaning Program is a new community wide effort to help reduce human-bear conflicts, begun this year by wildlife biologists with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and their partners at the nonprofit People and Carnivores.

Law roundup: Cameraman eager to share footage

A man’s neighbors said they were worried he was watching them with his security camera. He asked a Columbia Falls Police Department officer to look at his footage to confirm that wasn’t the case.

Samaritan House expansion plans include units for homeless veterans

Samaritan House, the Kalispell nonprofit organization that has operated a homeless shelter at 124 Ninth Ave. W. for many years, has a plan to increase the availability of housing for the most vulnerable community members — including homeless veterans — but will need the city’s approval to put its plan into action.

Legals for September, 28 2021

Whitefish targets increased enforcement of vacation rentals

The Whitefish City Council is asking for a renewed focus on enforcement of its current vacation rental regulations, while asking for an examination of changes to the regulations that could aid in that effort.

Symposium demand: Everybody claim their vote

Despite fraud allegations, record supports Montana election integrity

Some Republican Montana legislators are drumming up support for a special committee to look into the 2020 election results in Missoula and possibly all of Montana, continuing a call for scrutiny of outcomes already certified multiple times.

Naomi Mary Mast (Kauffman), 85

Naomi Mary Mast (Kauffman) was born June 17, 1936, in Creston. Naomi accepted Jesus Christ as her Savior and was born into the family of God at age 13.

3 Yellowstone wolves killed in first week of Montana hunt

Three gray wolves from a large pack in Yellowstone National Park that's popular among tourists have been killed by Montana hunters, park officials said Monday.

Glacier euthanizes black bear injured in crash

Glacier National Park rangers euthanized a black bear last week after it was found with traumatic injuries along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, apparently after being struck by a vehicle, the park said Monday.

NTSB investigates Montana plane crash that kills 2, hurts 1

Federal authorities were investigating a plane crash that killed two people and critically injured a third in southern Montana on Sunday, authorities said.

Legals for September, 27 2021

Kalispell police sergeant a true family man

Kalispell Police Sgt. Sean Keller is a school board member, a coach and a man with a position of some authority in his job. But the roles he plays as a family man and father are what mean the most to him.

Revisions to health department interlocal agreement proposed

Whitefish, C-Falls would have board representation

The interlocal agreement that buttresses the Flathead City-County Health Department will be put under the microscope for the first time since 2004 at a Kalispell City Council work session Monday.

Law roundup: Parents angry after teen pulls down pants

A flustered woman called Kalispell Police Department because she thought a “major fight” was going to happen after a teen, out walking a dog with his father in a parking lot, allegedly pulled his pants down in front of her children and screaming ensued.

Bravettes fall to Helena schools

High School soccer

Little, Utter lead Eureka over Loyola

High School football

Investigators probe Amtrak derailment that killed 3

A team of investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board was at the site of an Amtrak derailment in north-central Montana that killed three people and left seven hospitalized Sunday, officials said.

Leasing ban places Montana’s economy and future in jeopardy

On-and-off again relationships can be messy and have a lot of unintended consequences—the same holds true for a federal oil and gas leasing moratorium.

Serving the community and caring for people

My 62-year-old father is sitting in his hospital bed with new, complete paralysis of the left side of his body and face as a result of complications from Covid-19. He said, “Take a picture of me to give to anti-vaxxers. Covid is really bad, you don’t want it.”

Why coffee could cost more at groceries, cafes

Why coffee could cost more at groceries, cafes

Whitefish Fire Service Area seeks volunteers for advisory committee

The Whitefish Fire Service Area is seeking five volunteers to serve on a new steering committee that will help advise the district in the coming years.

State unveils proposed changes to hunting regs

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks this week unveiled a long list of proposals to streamline hunting regulations in 2022 and 2023. The agency is seeking public feedback on the proposals, which it says are aimed at making the rules "simpler and easier to understand" for hunters.

Bakery introduces colorful French pastries

Sweet Mountain Macarons introduces colorful French pastries to the Flathead Valley.

Carol Linda Kaufman, 74

Carol Linda Kaufman, 74, of Kalispell, passed away on Sept. 6, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center after a fall and a period of failing health.

Jean Given Bacon, 84

Jean Given Bacon, 84, passed away at Heritage Place on Sept 22, 2021, after years of poor health.

Health care workers deserve better

Sanders County’s public health officer resigned last week at the request of county commissioners. The egregious offense? Publicly advocating for the Covid-19 vaccine as a safe and effective way to stop the spread of the virus, and providing advice about Covid safety protocol.

Helen Walterskirchen Neumunz, 99

Helen Walterskirchen Neumunz, World War II veteran, passes at 99.

0926 biz watercooler

0926 biz watercooler

Climate change, logging collide — and a forest shrinks

Looking down a hillside dotted with large stumps and nearly devoid of trees, a pair of retired U.S. Forest Service employees lamented logging policies they helped craft to deal with two harbingers of climate change -- pine beetles and wildfires.

0926 Business newsmakers

business newsmakers

Whitefish grab-and-go cafe features plant-based menu

A new grab-and-go cafe in Whitefish called Plantiful offers mostly plant-based entrees.

Gianforte needs to take action on hospital capacity crisis

Over the last several weeks, COVID-19 cases have climbed to some of the worst levels we have seen during the pandemic, while hospitals have fewer supports.

Business economists lower growth forecasts due to virus

Business economists lower growth forecasts due to virus

Letters to the editor Sept. 26

Letters to the editor Sept. 26

Naomi Mary Mast (Kauffman), 85

Naomi Mary Mast (Kauffman) was born June 17, 1936, in Creston.

Legals for September, 26 2021

Floy Dorreen McBroom Baker, 87

Floy Baker passed away Sept. 8, 2021, at Expressions Memory Care in Kalispell.

Janet 'Janie' Lynne (French) Pine, 77

Janet “Janie” Lynne (French) Pine, 77, of Kalispell, passed away Sept. 17, 2021, at The Lodge at Buffalo Hill Terrace after a 14-year battle with dementia.

Tourist for a day, or two

The past few weekends I’ve been going on day trips fit for a tourist.

Frederick Wayne Jackson, 36

Frederick Wayne Jackson, 36, from Columbia Falls, passed away Sept. 11, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center due to Covid-19.

Plan moving forward to turn old Columbia Falls junior high into senior housing

The Columbia Falls School District is poised to go forward with a proposal by developer Mick Ruis to turn the old Columbia Falls junior high school into senior housing.

UK gas stations run dry as trucker shortage sparks hoarding

UK gas stations run dry as trucker shortage sparks hoarding

Jessica F. Mack Lesker, 41

Jessica was born Dec. 15, 1979, and left this world Sept. 9, 2021.

Jared Richard Ranson, 19

Our beloved Jared Richard Ranson passed away on Sunday, Sept. 19, 2021, in Kalispell.

Studying Lake McDonald water quality among group's 2022 projects

After collecting samples of crystal-clear water from Lake McDonald in 2018, researchers made a concerning observation: Nitrogen levels measured in the water were up to three times higher, and phosphorus levels were up to 12 times higher, than in samples taken from the lake three decades earlier. Algae particles also were found at higher concentrations.

Facebook puts Instagram for kids on hold after pushback

Facebook puts Instagram for kids on hold after pushback

Gary Carter Tallman, 89

Montana native Gary Tallman, born April 13, 1932, passed away Sept. 11, 2021.

Tavian Renee' Beasley, 27

Tavian Renee' Beasley, born Aug. 6, 1994, in Kalispell, passed on to her next journey Sept. 18, 2021, in Grand Coulee, Washington.

Glacier soccer teams roll

High School Soccer

PHOTOS: Grizzlies improve to 3-0 with 39-7 win over Cal Poly

Photos from the Montana Grizzlies 39-7 win over the Cal Poly Mustangs in a Big Sky Conference matchup at Washington-Grizzly Stadium in Missoula on Saturday, Sept. 25.

UM dominates Cal Poly, 39-7

Phased: Griz ride defense, special teams to win over Mustangs

Red Lodge firefighter, burned this summer, returns home

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — When the plane landed and Dan Steffensen’s feet hit the ground in Red Lodge on a recent Tuesday afternoon, the small town and its first responders took another step towards trying to heal from the summer of 2021.

Sullivan shines as Glacier downs Capital

Connor Sullivan’s catch-and-run of a 59-yard scoring pass was a thing of beauty Friday night, but it was a catch he made at the end of the first half that really dazzled.

Flathead’s Wynne, Glacier girls finish strong second at divisional

Jillian Wynne made her charge, the Glacier girls’ made theirs, though it was Butte’s Kodie Hoagland and the Helena Capital Bruins that held on for Western AA golf titles.

Glacier boys win fourth straight

Glacier got two goals from Zane Elliott to lift the Wolfpack to a 4-0 win over the Helena High Bengals Friday in Western AA soccer.

Personal bests galore at Butte Invite XC

Glacier’s Sam Ells ran a personal best time Friday to top the field at the Butte Invitational. He was six seconds ahead of the second place finisher.

Golan scores six, C-Falls sweeps Libby

Kai Golan lit up the scoreboard with six goals for the Columbia Falls Wildcats on Friday in an 8-0 victory over the Libby Loggers.

Nix, Whitefish win divisional golf titles

Johnny Nix was medalist and helped Whitefish’s boys to the Western A divisional golf crown Friday at Hamilton Country Club.

Ridgeway, Bulldogs take down Vigilantes

ynn Ridgeway threw three touchdowns passes and returned a punt 37 yards for a score as Whitefish made short work of East Helena, 44-8 in a Class A football game.

County OKs purchase of new election software

The Flathead County commissioners took another step forward in updating the county’s election equipment on Tuesday by approving the purchase of new election software.

Work on U.S. 93 by Lakeside nears completion

Work on U.S. 93 near Lakeside and Somers is nearing completion.

Kalispell council rejects bids for new police building

The Kalispell City Council on Monday unanimously agreed to reject three bids to build a new search facility for the Kalispell Police Department.

Legals for September, 25 2021

Law roundup: It’s the wurst: man demands ‘more sausage’

A patient called the Kalispell Police Department “because the registered nurse wouldn’t give him more sausage.”

Pfizer booster shots to begin in Flathead County

Vaccine clinic planned Tuesday at fairgrounds

Flathead City-County Health Officer Joe Russell said the health department will begin giving Pfizer booster shots this week, now that the Centers for Disease Control’s independent advisory committee has recommended certain people get a booster shot at least six months after the completion of their Pfizer vaccine primary series.

PHOTOS: Glacier tops Helena Capital 21-7

Photos from Glacier vs. Helena Capital in Class AA high school football at Legends Stadium on Friday, Sept. 24. The Wolfpack beat the Bruins, 21-7, improving their record to 4-1.

VA Medical Center near Helena to open beds to non-veterans

Montana hospitals that reach capacity due to a surge in Covid-19 cases may be able to transfer patients to the Fort Harrison VA Medical Center west of Helena, while additional National Guard soldiers are being activated to help at hospitals, Gov. Greg Gianforte announced Friday.

Another Montana therapeutic boarding school closing

A therapeutic boarding school in northwestern Montana, which state inspectors learned had once made boys sleep outside in winter conditions without proper clothing as punishment, closed on Friday.

Prescribed burns planned on state lands

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation is planning a number of prescribed burns on Northwest Montana state land this fall.

Stockman Bank to open branch in downtown Kalispell

Stockman Bank will open a new office at 1 Main St. in Kalispell later this year.

Town hall meeting on suicide prevention efforts planned in wake of recent suicide deaths

In response to the number of recent suicide deaths in the valley among teens, a town hall meeting will be held on Sept. 29 to gather community members and agencies to discuss the serious public health problem.

Legals for September, 24 2021

Rural Deer Park School welcomes new principal

Deer Park School has a new principal.

National expert to speak on suicide prevention

“Everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention,” said Scott Poland, director of the Suicide and Violence Prevention Office at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, who will speak at 6:30 p.m. Monday at Canvas Church in Kalispell.

Kalispell man headed to prison for violent crimes

A Kalispell man with a violent past is headed to the Montana State Prison after being sentenced recently in district court.

Young musicians chosen for state music festival

Students from Columbia Falls, Flathead, Glacier and Whitefish were selected to perform with other top student musicians from around the state.

Law roundup: Bible belter annoys park guests

Kalispell Parks and Recreation received a complaint about a man “screaming in the park.” The man told the Kalispell Police Department he was “just reading his Bible and singing loudly.”

John Allen 'Jack' Workman, 82

John Allen “Jack” Workman, 82, was born on Pinkham Creek on Oct. 24, 1938.

Flathead spikers rally past Knights

Savanna Sterck had 19 kills and five aces, and the Flathead Bravettes rallied from two sets down to beat Missoula Hellgate in Western AA volleyball action Thursday at the Flathead gym.

Bruins another stern test for Wolfpack

The Glacier Wolfpack are coming off a tough first loss of the football season, and things don’t get a whole lot easier tonight with Helena Capital coming to Legends Stadium.

COLUMN: Inspired hires, garden spots, sticker shock

After seeing the bill for Bruce Barnum’s beer garden extravaganza — $14,448, for 2,064 beers — I can only think: Why didn’t Jerry Glanville think of this?

Polson gets best of Whitefish in three

The Polson trio of Liz Tolley, Camilla Foresti and Mikenna Hanson were too much for Whitefish Thursday, in the Pirates’ three-set Northwest A volleyball win over the Bulldogs.

Flathead’s Wynne, Glacier’s Avery in second at Western AA golf

Glacier’s Tyler Avery and Flathead’s Jillian Wynne went low Thursday and sit second in the individual races after one day of the Western AA Divisional golf meet, held at the Ranch Club.

Hellgate outscores Walker, Braves

Missoula Hellgate quarterback Connor Dick threw for 430 yards and six touchdowns, and ran for two more scores as the Knights outscored Flathead 62-38 in a Western AA football game Thursday night.

Health officer resigns, citing pushback on Covid guidelines

The public health officer in a small northern Montana county is resigning because of the "constant negativity, pushback, disregard and lack of support" that health officials have faced throughout the coronavirus pandemic, she said.

Shodair scholarship program highlights suicide awareness

Shodair Children’s Hospital (Shodair) has partnered with organizations statewide to offer $10,000 in scholarships through its third annual suicide prevention awareness initiative.

National Guard to assist at Logan Health hospitals

Logan Health hospitals in Kalispell and Whitefish are set to receive assistance from the Montana National Guard as Covid-19 patients continue to tax the local health-care system.

Columbia Falls man admits to elk poaching

A Flathead Valley man has been prosecuted in an elk poaching case in north-central Montana.

Kalispell sets record for hottest summer

This summer was the hottest on record in Kalispell, according to new climate data from the National Weather Service in Missoula.

Providers challenge only US law banning vaccine mandates

Medical providers and Montana residents with compromised immune systems are challenging the only law in the U.S. that prevents employers from mandating workers get vaccinated amid a surge of Covid-19 infections.

Babb woman admits to trafficking meth

A Babb woman accused of receiving nearly 1 pound of methamphetamine in the mail has admitted to a drug trafficking crime.

Letters to the editor Sept. 23

Letters to the editor Sept. 23

Ethen Samuel Phelps

Ethen Samuel Phelps left this world Sept. 19, 2021, in a similar way in which he arrived — quietly, surrounded in love by his family. While his arrival brought smiles and laughter, his passing has brought great sorrow and pain.

0921 Memorial

A memorial service for Melvin Hanson, 92, who died Sept. 14, will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 23, at Risen Christ Catholic Church in Evergreen.

Law roundup: Large clowder takes hold of area

A man voiced his concern about the “excessive amount” of stray cats in the area to the Kalispell Police Department and wanted to talk with animal control about it.

Don’t overlook the effects of wildfire smoke

Regarding the recent guest opinion “Manage forest fires or suppress them” — are you kidding?

Whitefish hotel projects get favorable nod from Planning Board

The Whitefish Planning Board last week gave positive recommendations to two separate hotel proposals.

Olney man jailed after alleged incident at hospital

A fracas at a local hospital recently landed an Olney man in jail.

The Lil Smokies return to Missoula for New Year's Eve concert

As is tradition, Montana’s bluegrass band The Lil Smokies will return to The Wilma Theater in Missoula for a New Year’s Eve celebration Friday, Dec. 31.

Evergreen sidewalk grant a win for the community

Evergreen community leaders deserve a round of applause for going the distance to secure a nearly $1 million state grant for the construction of long-awaited sidewalks along portions of two very busy highways.

Eugene Raymond Thomas, 84

On Sept. 17, 2021, God felt it was time to reward Eugene Thomas for his lifetime of service with a spot in heaven.

New musical “SORRY!” debuts on ATP stage

“SORRY!,” a new original musical comedy by multi-instrumentalist and producer Erica von Kleist will premier at Alpine Theatre Project in its first staged concert performance.

Movie Night at the Museum features ‘Catch 22’

The Northwest Montana History Museum’s next Movie Night at the Museum is Tuesday, Sept. 28, with the screening of the 1970 classic black comedy “Catch-22.” The show begins at 7 p.m.

Bird of the Month: The sandhill crane

They have a very distinctive loud, rattling bugle-like call that is memorable and are also known for their ritualistic dancing and leaping displays.

A future our children will be proud of

I have lived in two houses which had coal chutes, with rectangular iron doors, installed in their foundations along the driveway. In the basements the old coal bins, small rooms paneled with boards, had long since been converted to other uses.

Female friendships highlighted WTC’s ‘The Cemetery Club’

The Whitefish Theatre Co. presents its first Black Curtain theatre production of the 2021-2022 season with “The Cemetery Club” at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Wolfpack Theatre stages laugh-out-loud comedy

The Golden Girls meet the Mafia in the dark and clever comedy “B.A.T.S.” presented by the Wolfpack Theatre Company Sept. 27, 28 and 29.

WTC announces auditions for its holiday show ‘Elf The Musical’

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for a winter production of “Elf The Musical” on Sept. 27 and 28 at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Bigfork's Cusker third after Mack opening weekend

Saturday the wicked winds began to blow and anglers were looking for protection, many reported huge rollers out on the water.

Legals for September, 23 2021

Edward James Guy, 96

Edward James Guy was born June 24, 1925, in Kansas City, Kansas.

Are wolf, bear regs really needed?

With the end of summer and the fall season here, all of us living in bear country must be aware of how bears, both black bears and grizzly bears, are on a relentless search for food or calories in order to survive the approaching long winter denning season.

​​MTPR’s Annie Garde to retire;“Pea Green Boat” will continue

The longtime host of Montana Public Radio’s children’s programs “The Pea Green Boat” and “The Children’s Corner” has announced her retirement.

AA Football: Braves look to get back on track against Hellgate

Coming off a 48-7 homecoming loss to Butte, the Flathead Braves look to get well on the road, with a game against Missoula Hellgate Thursday.

A change of course

Glacier’s Salonen traded the gridiron for fairways

With a last name well known in Griz nation, the expectation was that the seventh-grade quarterback of 2016 would be the starting high school QB in 2021. Then Will Salonen changed the play.

Unions sue over law ending same-day voter registration

A coalition including worker unions and a disability rights group filed a lawsuit Wednesday against Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen over a law passed earlier this year that eliminates same-day voter registration.

Montana Covid hospitalizations near 400, more Guard deployed

Gov. Greg Gianforte said Wednesday he will deploy National Guard soldiers to help overburdened hospital staff in Great Falls, as Montana's rising Covid-19 hospitalizations near 400 and a southwestern Montana hospital reports crisis standards of care are imminent.

California man convicted for role in Montana deputy's death

A California man who, along with his son, went on a "suicide mission" involving law enforcement officers, has been convicted for his role in the death of a Montana sheriff's deputy and for shots fired at two other officers during a pursuit.

Marjorie Tuma, 92

Marjorie “Margie” Tuma peacefully passed away at the age of 92 on Sept. 16, 2021, in the comfort of her home.

Patricia Joy Kartheiser Cheff, 85

Patricia Joy Cheff, 85, passed away Aug. 31, 2021, with her children by her side at The Retreat at Buffalo Hill in Kalispell.

Dixie Joan Wegner (Beebe) Riley, 86

Dixie Joan Wegner (Beebe) Riley, 86, of Columbia Falls, passed away at home on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021.

Dennis Ray Christensen, 63

Dennis Ray Christensen passed away on Sept. 13, 2021, in Kalispell after complications due to long-term diabetes.

Legals for September, 22 2021

Fairgrounds manager to retire in November

Flathead County Fairgrounds Manager Mark Campbell will retire in November after 11 years on the job and close to four decades in fairgrounds management.

Jeffrey Thomas Rajkowski, 68

Jeffrey Thomas Rajkowski, 68, passed peacefully into the arms of his Savior on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021, surrounded by his loving wife and children.

Dennis Beekman, 29

Dennis was born in Kalispell on Jan. 14, 1992, to Roy and Terry Beekman and joined his 11-year older brother David.

Whitefish firm starts Parkinson's education group

The nonprofit Parkinson Voice Project has named Whitefish Therapy & Sport Center as a recipient of its 2021 Speak Out! & Loud Crowd grant program.

Whitefish admits overcharging water fees, rejects other allegations

Whitefish's city manager and City Council members have responded to allegations that the city has "systematically overcharged" developers and homeowners on water and sewer impact fees, which help cover the cost of extending pipes and expanding treatment facilities to serve new buildings.

Frances Lewis, 86

Frances Lewis, 86, of Kalispell, peacefully passed away on Sept. 15, 2021.

Adam Fredrick Topp, 36

Adam Fredrick Topp, 36, of Kalispell, passed away Sept. 18, 2021, in Kalispell.

Elaine Quam Strand, 87

On Sept 18, 2021, our mom and wife danced her last dance through the gates as she entered heaven.

Columbia Falls transportation plan ready for public perusal

A draft transportation plan that prioritizes millions of dollars’ worth of potential road improvements in Columbia Falls over the next two decades will be unveiled to the public next week during three separate events.

Kalispell man faces rape charge in Idaho

A Kalispell man accused of rape in Idaho is also facing federal charges for his alleged involvement in car theft and gun running conspiracies across the northwestern United States.

Charles Wilbur Hornbacher, 79

On Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, Charles Wilbur Hornbacher died at home after enjoying a last visit with his wife Norma and daughter Stephanie.

Scammers pose as Flathead Electric employees

Flathead Electric Cooperative is advising the public that some co-op members have received fraudulent phone calls and text messages threatening to cut their power off.

C-Falls girls, boys blow out Polson

Findley Sundberg scored four and two Wildcats got their first varsity goals ever Tuesday as Columbia Falls cruised to a 10-0 win over Polson.

Whitefish rolls Bigfork

Sofie Saurey and Emma Barron scored the only tallies for Whitefish in a stingy 2-0 Northwest A soccer game Tuesday.

Glacier outlasts Hellgate in five

Sidney Gulick had 20 kills and Sarah Downs five blocks, and Glacier outlasted Missoula Hellgate in a five-set Western AA volleyball match Tuesday.

Body recovered, half-brother sought around Yellowstone lake

Rescue crews in Yellowstone National Park recovered the body of a 67-year-old Washington state man and searched around a lake Tuesday for his half-brother after the pair failed to return from a backcountry canoe trip.

Gianforte sends National Guard to aid in virus response

National Guard soldiers will assist Montana hospitals with their Covid-19 response as the state struggles with a surge in infections, Gov. Greg Gianforte announced Tuesday.

Great Falls man convicted of using hatchet to kill man

A Great Falls man was convicted Tuesday of using a hatchet to kill another man during a street fight more than three years ago.

Covid surge pushes Billings Clinic past the tipping point

Nurses fill the hospital room to turn a patient from his stomach to his back. The ventilator forcing air into him is most effective when he’s on his stomach, so he is in that position most hours of the day, sedated and paralyzed by drugs.

Family, friends remember Kalispell shooting victim

A Kalispell man who died in a shooting at a fitness center last week will be remembered at a memorial service Wednesday in Missoula.

Woman convicted for role in shooting death during robbery

A Montana woman has been convicted for her role in the fatal shooting of a man during a drug robbery at a motel in Ballantine, a community northeast of Billings.

Hungry Horse woman admits to trafficking meth in Flathead Valley

A Hungry Horse woman accused of distributing pounds of methamphetamine in the Flathead Valley for about a year has admitted to trafficking the drug, Acting U.S. Attorney Leif M. Johnson said.

Legals for September, 21 2021

Local horse trainers excel at Extreme Mustang Makeover

Hours of hard work and dedication paid off for two local horse trainers as they competed in the Extreme Mustang Makeover in Oklahoma City last month.

Law roundup: Officers collect 'bag of tricks'

A woman allegedly found a suspicious bag next to her fence that contained a work badge, duct tape and box cutters and thought it may be related to an incident she heard about.

Videographer from Whitefish documents efforts to save northern white rhino

Jeff Hyer’s recent trip to Kenya left him inspired to tell the story of northern white rhinos.

Local self-guided solar tour offered Oct. 2-3

Northstone Solar, a Whitefish-based business, in conjunction with the American Solar Energy Society, has coordinated its first-ever tour of solar installations in the valley.

Ski resort sets up 'selfie stations' for pass sales

Season-pass holders at Whitefish Mountain Resort will have the option to personalize their passes this winter at one of the resort’s new “selfie stations” set up around the valley.

Sportsman’s Bridge to be replaced in 2023

Plans to replace the 66-year-old Sportsman’s Bridge on Montana 82 near Bigfork were unveiled last week by the Montana Department of Transportation.

Stillwater soccer downs Whitefish JV

High School soccer

Montana senators blast latest extension of US-Canada border restrictions

The Biden administration said Monday it is extending travel restrictions at the land border between the U.S. and Canada at least through Oct. 21, prompting another round of bipartisan criticism from Montana Sens. Jon Tester and Steve Daines.

Sanders County health officer resigns to ease conflict

The public health officer in a politically conservative county in northwestern Montana has resigned his post to ease what his resignation letter called "the strife and conflict coming from a minority of people objecting" to his recommendations in responding to the coronavirus.

Great Fish fundraiser sets new record

The Great Fish Community Challenges set a new fundraising record this year with a preliminary total of $3.6 million donated to 61 Flathead Valley nonprofit organizations between Aug. 5 and Sept. 17.

UM study explores vaccine hesitancy in Montana

As the delta variant grips the nation, understanding the “why” behind Montanans choosing to get vaccinated — or not — is the topic of a National Institutes of Health grant to the University of Montana’s Center for Population Health Research.

U.S. easing foreign travel restrictions; vaccinations required

President Joe Biden will ease foreign travel restrictions to the U.S. beginning in November, allowing foreigners into the country if they have proof of vaccination and a negative COVID-19 test, the White House said Monday.

Kalispell police building bids come in over budget

After a busy summer, the Kalispell City Council looks to hold a relatively brief meeting Monday on just a single agenda item.

Morisaki tackles Flathead housing crunch with business expertise

As the new executive director of the Northwest Montana Community Land Trust, Kim Morisaki is on a mission to help solve the Flathead Valley's shortage of affordable housing.

Whitefish council to consider 95 Karrow project

An amended proposal for a large mixed-use development at the site of a shuttered timber plant is expected to receive final approval from the Whitefish City Council on Monday.

Legals for September, 20 2021

Law roundup: Redhead asks man to help take people

A man in his 50s with red hair and a beard allegedly approached another man to ask him if he wanted to help him “take people.”

The Covid vaccine is safe, simple and effective

In my work as a primary care physician assistant, I regularly advocate to all patients that they get the Covid-19 vaccine.

Bigfork man dies in crash near Ferndale

A Bigfork man died Sunday morning after being ejected from his vehicle in a crash near Ferndale.

Inflation forces homebuilders to take it slow, raise prices

Even in the hottest U.S. housing market in more than a decade, new home construction has turned into a frustratingly uncertain and costly proposition for many homebuilders.

Senator Tester faces choice on Colstrip, energy jobs

Hidden away deep within the massive, $3.5 trillion Congressional budget package is a ticking time bomb for Montana’s economy.

Patricia Jean (Buck) Sevier, 91

Patty passed away Aug. 24, 2021.

Flathead Business newsmakers

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Business briefs: Kalispell business award nominations open

Flathead Business briefs

First Interstate, Great Western banks merge

First Interstate BancSystem Inc., parent company of First Interstate Bank, and Great Western Bancorp Inc., parent company of Great Western Bank, this week announced they have entered into an agreement under which the companies will combine in an all‐stock transaction.

Bear-resistant dumpsters needed

With the recent uptick in bear habituation to trash throughout Whitefish, I think it’s time the city explore investing in large steel bear-resistant dumpsters.

Anna Mae 'Bobbie' Ridgway, 75

It is with profound sadness and much love that we announce the passing of Anna Mae "Bobbie" Ridgway, 75, on Sept. 6, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Wayne Joseph Anderson, 81

Wayne Joseph Anderson of Rollins took his last flight on July 25, 2021, at the age of 81.

Patricia Joy Kartheiser Cheff, 85

Patricia Joy Cheff, 85, passed away Aug. 31, 2021, with her children by her side at The Retreat at Buffalo Hill in Kalispell.

American Prairie Reserve's proposal would set a terrible precedent

An important deadline approaches for Montanans fighting to stop the American Prairie Reserve from decimating the agricultural economy of Eastern Montana.

Vaccine orders: Montana businesses are in an untenable position

Last week, President Biden announced the Labor Department’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the coming weeks will issue an “emergency temporary standard” that will mandate all employers with 100 or more employees to require their workers be vaccinated or undergo weekly Covid testing.

It's time for community conversation about suicide

It’s difficult for most of us to fathom the deep despair that accompanies such a final, fatal act as suicide, and it’s even more difficult to talk about.

Gary Gordon Gray, 83

Gary Gordon Gray, 83, passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021, at Peace Hospice in Great Falls with his family by his side.

Kalispell building permits

Kalispell building permits

Ironing out life’s wrinkles

I'll never get used to wrinkles, even as a fashion statement.

Families, students left reeling after several deaths by suicide

Seven local teens ages 15 to 19 have died by suicide since May 2020, tragedies that mirror a major public health issue nationwide.

Big housing project proposed at base of Big Mountain

A team of developers has submitted plans to the city of Whitefish to build 318 housing units and a small "island" of commercial space at the base of Big Mountain.

Donna Roth

Donna passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 7, 2021, at BeeHive Homes in Kalispell with her sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren by her side.

Renewed tax credit can help employers hire workers

With many businesses facing a tight job market, the Internal Revenue Service reminds employers to check out a tax credit available to them for hiring long-term unemployment recipients and other groups of workers facing significant barriers to employment.

Conor William Graham, 22

Conor William Graham was welcomed into this world on Sept. 1, 1999, by his parents Shane W. and Julie E. Graham, as well as his big brother Quinten and a host of eagerly waiting family and friends.

Matt Hurley, 27

The heavens are a lot brighter now. Matt Hurley, 27 years young, was taken from us far too early in life on Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021.

Kalispell schools offer counseling, resources amid suicide cluster

Following the suicide deaths of multiple Flathead and Glacier high school students, Kalispell Public Schools, counselors, psychologists and social workers are available to meet with students or connect them with other services.

Doreen M. Thigpen, 75

Doreen M. Thigpen, of Bigfork, passed away at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell on Aug. 25, 2021, at age 75.

New Kalispell restaurant offers authentic ramen

John E. Watson hopes to bowl people over with the soup at Hokkaido Ramen House.

David Garth Robertson, 83

“If you eat popcorn, it will give you dandruff.” I believed this well into my 20s and is just one example of dad’s ridiculous sense of humor.

Lack of accountability for those in command

It was on 14 May 1952 that an article appeared in the Wall Street Journal.

Legals for September, 19 2021

Glacier spikers sweep Helena High

Glacier earned another Western AA volleyball win by beating Helena High in three sets Saturday at Glacier High School.

Local harriers fare well at Mountain West Classic

As usual, Idaho and Washington runners cut a wide swath at the Mountain West Classic cross country meet held Saturday at the University of Montana Golf Course, but Montana harriers — and those from the Flathead Valley — had some excellent times.

Pirates double up on visiting Loggers

Sophia Moderie scored four goals for the Polson Pirates in an 8-0 soccer win over the Libby Loggers Saturday.

What are 'crisis standards of care?'

As the spread of the delta variant continues unabated in much of the U.S., public health leaders have approved health care rationing in Idaho and parts of Alaska and Montana.

Federal land agency moving back to D.C.

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is moving the national headquarters of the Bureau of Land Management back to the nation's capital after two years in Colorado, reversing a decision by former President Donald Trump's administration to move the agency closer to the region it serves.

Illegal marijuana farms take West's water in 'blatant theft'

Jack Dwyer pursued a dream of getting back to the land by moving in 1972 to an idyllic, tree-studded parcel in Oregon with a creek running through it.

Law roundup ‘Annoying neighbors’ to blame for rodents

A woman called the Kalispell Police Department complaining about “annoying neighbors.” She said the neighbors left so much trash against her fence, it started a mouse infestation.

Letters to the editor Sept. 18

Letters to the editor Sept. 18

With hands tied, Montana officials issue public health plea

Health officials in both Missoula and Bozeman are begging Montana residents to wear masks indoors and get vaccinated as hospitals face increasing strain and the state remains without any statewide health mandates.

Unintended consequences of Glacier’s ticketed entry

Glacier National Park achieved its intent with this summer’s ticketed entry system for Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Wildcats fly past Libby in Northwest A clash

Isaiah Roth scored three touchdowns, Cody Schweikert threw for two and the wide-open Columbia Falls Wildcats took a surprising 48-0 football win over run-first Libby Friday night.

Braves start slow, fall to Bulldogs 48-7

Butte’s Dylan Snyder scored four touchdowns, including a kickoff return to open the second half, and the Bulldogs down Flathead 48-7 in a Western AA football matchup at Legends Stadium Friday.

Wolfpack spikers earn conference win over Capital

Glacier earned its second Western AA conference volleyball win by beating visiting Helena Capital in five sets Friday.

Vikings slip by Panthers, 20-19

The Bigfork Vikings scored three rushing touchdowns to edge Jefferson 20-19 Friday in Class B football.

Bravettes edge Helena High

The Bravettes won three straight sets Friday to defeat Western AA foe Helena High.

Wolfpack charge comes up short against Sentinel

Missoula Sentinel got two touchdown passes from Zac Crews and two late scoring runs from Adam Jones to beat Glacier 29-21 in a Western AA football showdown Friday at MCPS Stadium.

PHOTOS: Wildcats roll past Libby, 48-0

Photos from Columbia Falls vs. Libby in Northwest A high school football at Satterthwaite Field in Columbia Falls on Friday, Sept. 17. The Wildcats beat the Loggers, 48-0.

Pentagon reverses itself, calls deadly Kabul strike an error

The Pentagon retreated from its defense of a drone strike that killed multiple civilians in Afghanistan last month, announcing Friday that an internal review revealed that only civilians were killed in the attack, not an Islamic State extremist as first believed.

Interior Secretary signs Montana tribes water rights compact

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland signed the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes water rights compact on Friday, settling a decades-long battle over thousands of individual water rights in Montana and on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

West Valley School District keeps masks optional

Masks will remain optional for students and staff at West Valley School District following a long discussion about Covid-19 protocols at Wednesday’s school board meeting.

Officials ID Kalispell man who died in shooting

The shootings at Fuel Fitness in Kalispell also left two others injured. They were taken to Logan Health in Kalispell.

Pacific storm to bring mountain snow this weekend

The coldest temperatures of the season are expected across Western Montana this weekend, along with a good chance of mountain snow.

Local pastor to talk with astronaut on space station

A Flathead Valley pastor will broadcast a live interview this Sunday with an astronaut on the International Space Station.

Woman suffers thermal burns in Yellowstone National Park

A 19-year-old Rhode Island woman suffered "significant thermal burns" in Yellowstone National Park and is being treated at the Burn Center at the Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls, Idaho, park officials said.

Idaho fugitive arrested in Jewel Basin area

A fugitive from Idaho is lodged in the Flathead County Detention Center after a series of incidents that ended Labor Day weekend in the Jewel Basin area.

Assessment for 911 center will be on November tax bills

Flathead County property owners will begin seeing a new assessment supporting the consolidated 911 dispatch center on tax bills that go out in November.

Ford adding 450 jobs to meet demand for new electric truck

Ford Motor Co. plans to spend $250 million and add 450 jobs at three Michigan plants to meet demand for the new F-150 Lightning.

Convicted rapist headed to prison after probation violations

Convicted rapist Kaleb James Arends had more than one opportunity at reform, but after his latest probation violation he will now spend time in prison.

Kathleen Hayes Longfield, 70

Kathleen Hayes Longfield passed away on Aug. 16, 2021, with her sons by her side.

Logan Health earns awards for heart care

Logan Health has been recognized as a leading heart-care hospital in Montana.

Proposed zone change for marinas would affect Bigfork development

The Flathead County commissioners will consider a zone change regarding the use of marinas that affects Bigfork Bay during a public hearing on Tuesday, Sept. 21.

Legals for September, 17 2021

Libertarians meet in Kalispell this weekend

The 2021 Montana Libertarian Party State Officers Convention will be held in Kalispell Friday through Sunday, Sept. 17-19, at the Hilton Garden Inn.

Law roundup: Florida man gets lost near library

A Florida driver called the Kalispell Police Department because he couldn’t find the library.

Therapy goats on the mend following dog attack

Therapy goats at the Farming for the Future Academy in Columbia Falls are recovering after being attacked by dogs last month.

0917 death notice

Joseph Anthony Lincoln, 88

Ridgeway, Schlauch guide Whitefish over Stevensville

Fynn Ridgeway threw for 143 yards and three touchdowns and the Whitefish Bulldogs stayed perfect with a 24-6 Class A football win over Stevensville Thursday.

AA football: Flathead seeks strong start; Glacier heads to Sentinel

Three slow starts have added up to, well, a slow start to the football season for the Flathead Braves, who will try to get going Friday against a very solid Butte High squad.

Glacier girls win crosstown 1-0

Boys cruise 6-0 over Flathead

Calista Wroble was denied a goal on a penalty kick try, so when she took a free kick a few minutes later, she made that one count to give Glacier a 1-0 win over Flathead in the schools’ first crosstown meeting of the season at Legends Stadium on Thursday.

Roth shows up to give Cats another target

It was just a couple years ago that a transfer from Nampa, Idaho, became the new kid in town in Columbia Falls.

Glacier sweeps Kalispell Invite

Flathead’s Wynne again takes medalist honors

There was plenty of excitement at Buffalo Hill Golf Course Thursday, with the Glacier High boys winning in another playoff, and the Wolfpack sweeping another golf tournament.

Fire crews battle Batavia Lane blaze

A Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation firefighter monitors a barn fire on Batavia Lane, west of Kalispell, Thursday afternoon. Officials said the metal structure was used as a shop and no animals were inside the building. The cause of the fire has yet to be determined. Fire crews from Smith Valley, West Valley, South Kalispell and Kalispell responded. Flathead County Sheriff's officers worked traffic control.(Scott Shindledecker/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier reports year-to-date dip in visitation

Officials said Thursday that Glacier National Park tallied more than 2.35 million visitors from the start of the year through the end of August — fewer than the park welcomed during the same eight-month period in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

Wyoming to ask US to lift Yellowstone grizzly protections

Wyoming will ask the federal government to remove its protections for grizzly bears in the Yellowstone region and permit the region's three states to manage and potentially allow hunting of the big bruins in certain areas, Gov. Mark Gordon said Thursday.

Alert canceled after 15-year-old Montana girl found safe

A 15-year-old girl on Montana's Fort Peck Reservation who was the subject of an Amber Alert for a possible abduction has been found and is safe, authorities said Thursday.

Logan Health nurses reach union contract

Following two years of contentious contract negotiations and a three-day strike in June, unionized nurses at Logan Health in Kalispell have reached a deal with hospital administration.

States learning how many Afghan evacuees coming their way

The Biden administration began notifying governors and state refugee coordinators across the country about how many Afghan evacuees from among the first group of nearly 37,000 arrivals are slated to be resettled in their states.

Helena hospital critical care at capacity amid virus surge

A hospital in Helena was forced to implement crisis standards of care amid a surge in Covid-19 patients, hospital officials said Thursday.

Kalispell shooting leaves one man dead, two injured

Officers found three men with gunshot wounds, including one who died at the scene. The other two were taken to the Logan Health.

Under pressure, Montana hospital considers adding psych beds amid a shortage

Gary Popiel had to drive more than 200 miles round trip to visit his adult daughters in separate behavioral health facilities as they received psychiatric and medical treatment.

State accepting applications for Northwest Montana mountain lion committee

The committee will be asked to develop a target that maximizes public satisfaction related to mountain lion hunting opportunity, mountain lion conflict and ungulate population trends.

Keeping it together

Political parties manipulate the public mind in order to get their candidates elected.

Outdoors briefs

Join Whitefish Legacy Partners and Dale Johnson on a search for wild mushrooms at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 19.

Letters to the editor Sept. 16

Letters to the editor Sept. 16

County hits pause button a second time on vote tabulators

The purchase of new vote tabulators for Flathead County elections has been tabled again by the county commissioners to enable further evaluation of the proposed equipment.

Carol A. Curry, 85

Carol A. Curry, 85, passed away peacefully in Kalispell on Sept. 14, 2021.

WWII soldier's medals presented to family in Kalispell

John T. Mulder had just graduated from Oregon State College when he joined the U.S. Army in 1942. A basketball player from the small town of Raymond, Washington, he became a second lieutenant in the 405th Infantry Regiment as well as a platoon commander for his company's mortar section. Then he went to Germany.

0916 TWIF Briefs

Seafood and sausage dinner benefits Bigfork Children’s Theatre

Nurses Association shows lack of critical thinking

The Montana Nurses Association has referred to the recent emergency rule from Montana DPHHS regarding not masking in school as “promotion of junk science.” One might be wise to use caution as well as introspection in using such a bold statement.

Board hones pot rules; OKs big housing projects

Local marijuana legislation began to take shape this week when the Kalispell Planning Board recommended approval of a zoning text amendment regarding recreational marijuana.

Campbell Joshua Smith, 17

Campbell Joshua Smith died Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021.

Legals for September, 16 2021

Youth pheasant, waterfowl hunts to open

Licensed hunters ages 15 and under may hunt ducks, geese, coots, mergansers and ring-necked pheasants statewide on these two special days set aside for youngsters, but they must be accompanied by a non-hunting adult.

Glacier Park's 2021 Native America Speaks Artist-in-Residence program continues

Glacier National Park's Native America Speaks Artist-in-Residence program continues Friday, Sept. 17, with Valentina LaPier, a multi-disciplinary artist and educator who works with the Blackfeet Nation, Glacier Park and the Metis community.

Latest Covid surge at Libby care facility leaves at least 10 dead

At least 10 Libby Care Center residents died due to complications related to Covid-19 after the coronavirus spread through the local nursing home last month.

Fall Mack Days begins Thursday

Up to $200,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded at the conclusion of the nine-week event. Just one lake trout entry qualifies an angler for a prize. Anglers can fish all 60 days of the tournament, or fewer if they prefer.

The Woodlands’ Concert Series continues

The public is invited to attend a concert at 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 18, at The Woodlands, an active senior community located in Kalispell directly behind the vacant Shopko building and Snappy Sport Senter.

Flathead Quilters’ Guild hosts a ‘Garden Party’

The theme of the Flathead Quilters’ Guild 2021 show is “Garden Party” and it will take place Sept. 17 and 18 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell.

Law roundup: Casino asks police to check on penny pinchers

An employee asked the Kalispell Police Department to walk through a casino because there were allegedly two sketchy women who kept coming and going and only playing penny machines.

Early returns — and serves — look good for Bravettes, Pack

Prep notes

COLUMN: Milestones reached 24 hours apart

Two night games and 200 wins.

Whitefish’s Smith leads after first 18 of Kalispell Invite

Billy Smith of Whitefish fired a 73 to lead a three-way tie for first place Wednesday on the Northern Pines golf course at the first day of the Kalispell Invite.

Patrol IDs North Dakota trooper who fatally shot Montana man

The North Dakota Highway Patrol on Wednesday identified the trooper who fatally shot a Montana man following a vehicle chase on Interstate 94 west of Mandan earlier this month.

US: Wolves may need protections after states expand hunting

The Biden administration said Wednesday that federal protections may need to be restored for gray wolves in the western U.S. after Republican-backed state laws made it much easier to kill the predators.

More than half of states have rolled back public health powers in pandemic

Republican legislators in more than half of U.S. states, spurred on by voters angry about lockdowns and mask mandates, are taking away the powers state and local officials use to protect the public against infectious diseases.

Jeffrey Alan Crowston, 53

Jeffrey Crowston, 53, of Whitefish, formerly of Reiles Acres, Fargo, North Dakota, died Monday, Sept. 6, 2021, at Logan Health Whitefish.

Extended-stay hotel proposed in Whitefish

A second new hotel could be coming to Whitefish. Last month, Averill Hospitality unveiled plans to build a three-story boutique hotel at the northwest corner of Central Avenue and First Street, on the vacant lot next to the Craggy Range restaurant.

Seafood and sausage dinner benefits Bigfork Children’s Theatre

A crab and shrimp boil fundraiser is being held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17, for the Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre.

Marie Berta (Nguyen Thi Bê), 71

Marie Berta (Nguyen Thi Bê), 71, of Columbia Falls, was born on Dec. 3, 1949, and grew up in Vung Tau, Vietnam.

Richard Brent Rough, 72

It is with profound sadness that the family of Richard Brent Rough announce his unexpected passing on the ninth of September 2021 at the age of 72 years.

Law roundup: Man advised 911 dispatch isn’t tech support

A man called 911 wanting to know how to plug his phone in. He hung up after being told to call tech support.

Study finds Whitefish High School nearing capacity

The Whitefish High School building is nearing its student capacity level based on current enrollment figures, according to a draft facilities plan being developed by the school district.

Legals for September, 15 2021

Commissioners weigh in on congressional redistricting

The Flathead County commissioners have recommended to the Montana Districting and Apportionment Commission that Flathead County be kept within a Western Montana congressional district.

Dogs sweep Cats

Whitefish girls win 4-0; boys top Columbia Falls 4-1

Adrienne Healy got Whitefish rolling with the first of her two goals in the first half and helped the Bulldogs put on a clinic and beat the Columbia Falls Wildkats 4-0 on Tuesday.

Libby spikers edge Whitefish

Ember Rhode had 10 kills, 13 digs and six aces as Libby edged Whitefish in West A volleyball Tuesday, 25-23, 25-22, 25-23.

Glacier boys roll past Big Sky

Davis Rennie scored two goals, Joey Paolini got his sixth of the young season and Glacier held down Missoula Big Sky 6-0 for a Western AA boys’ soccer victory Tuesday.

US tribes demand emergency protection for wolves

Dozens of American Indian tribes asked the Biden administration Tuesday to immediately enact emergency protections for gray wolves, saying states have become too aggressive in hunting the animal.

Judge fines public defenders office for unassigned cases

A Yellowstone County judge has held the director of Montana's Office of the Public Defender in contempt of court and fined the agency up to $10,000 for failing to immediately assign public defenders in criminal cases he has referred to the office.

West Reserve upgrades come with $68M price tag

A cost summary of the full slate of recommended improvements on West Reserve Drive between Hutton Ranch and U.S. 2 estimates intersection improvements at $20.7 million and roadway widening at roughly $47.7 million, for a total of $68.4 million.

Unsecured garbage in Whitefish a smorgasbord for bears

19 black bear reports; grizzly relocated

Following recent reports and sightings of 19 black bears getting into garbage and eating fruit in Whitefish, and the capture and relocation of a grizzly bear from downtown Whitefish, state wildlife officials have once again issued a stern warning for Whitefish area residents.

National Guard to help Billings hospital with Covid cases

Seventeen Montana National Guard soldiers have volunteered to continue helping the state with its Covid-19 response, Gov. Greg Gianforte said.

Cat-Dawg soccer games set up for big thrills

The atmosphere at the Columbia Falls High School soccer field tonight might feel more like a playoff game than a midseason one: Whitefish is coming to town.

3 people killed in all-terrain vehicle crash near Billings

A woman and two men were killed in a weekend all-terrain vehicle crash east of Billings, the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office said.

Legals for September, 14 2021

'Right to work' group sues to strike down Clean Campaign Act

A Montana group advocating for "right to work" policies sued on Monday to strike down the state's Clean Campaign Act, arguing it contains a provision that violates political speech protections.

Norman Stanley Smith, 88

Norman Stanley Smith, 88, was called home to be with the Lord on Sept. 10, 2021.

Rural solar access is focus of Columbia Falls meeting

The Montana Renewable Energy Association is hosting a meeting this month about small-scale solar development in Columbia Falls.

Bonus incentive extended for Kalispell subs

Kalispell Public Schools is looking to fill up its substitute pool as it experiences another shortage at the start of another school year operating during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Law roundup: Locked out woman not a happy camper

A woman was reportedly locked out of her house by someone inside.

Dwain Allen Clarke

Dwain Allen Clarke was born on Nov. 24th in 1955 to Richard and Arlene Clarke on Travis Air Force Base located in Fairfield, California.

Forest conservation planned near Bigfork

Several conservation groups have joined forces to protect 236 acres of forestland and open space, and build more than 4 miles of publicly accessible trails, a short distance from downtown Bigfork.

Lori Jean Barrick, 58

Lori Jean (Branine) Barrick traveled over her rainbow bridge, Sept. 2, 2021, at her home in Priest River, Idaho.

Evergreen awarded $1M grant for sidewalk project

The Montana Department of Transportation has awarded nearly $1 million for the construction of new sidewalks in Evergreen, the largest source of funding for the long-anticipated project that aims to provide safe routes to schools in the community.

Stillwater Christian downs Troy

High School volleyball

Great Falls High School moves online after Covid-19 outbreak

About 1,500 students at Great Falls High School will begin remote learning Tuesday and through the rest of the week because of an increase in Covid-19 cases among students and staff, Great Falls Public Schools said Monday.

Oktoberfest reshaped and ready to go in Whitefish

The 2021 Great Northwest Oktoberfest show will go on after all in Whitefish.

Out West, Biden points to wildfires to push for big spending

President Joe Biden on Monday pointed to wildfires burning through the West to argue for his $3.5 trillion spending plan, calling year-round fires and other extreme weather a climate change reality the nation can no longer ignore.

Groups push to resume enforcement in Montana mining dispute

Environmental groups have filed notice they plan to sue Gov. Greg Gianforte's administration after it dropped a legal claim against a mining executive over decades of pollution from several mines.

Sportsman’s Bridge open house events planned

Bigfork residents and nearby travelers can expect a wider, safer Sportsman’s Bridge in the coming years.

Crowds gather to protest Biden's Idaho visit

More than 1,000 protesters gathered in Boise, Idaho, on Monday morning ahead of a visit by President Joe Biden to express their displeasure about his coronavirus plan, the election and other issues.

Covid shuts down Eureka elementary school

Eureka Elementary School closed Monday due to a large number of Covid-19 positive or symptomatic staff, Eureka Superintendent of Schools Jim Mepham said.

Universities receive $1.9M to address mental health care in western Montana

A new four-year, $1.9 million grant will enable a team of collaborators at Montana State University and the University of Montana to continue a program that trains students to better serve individuals with mental health care needs.

Democrats seek corporate, wealthy tax hikes for $3.5T plan

House Democrats unveiled a sweeping proposal Monday for tax hikes on big corporations and the wealthy to fund President Joe Biden's $3.5 trillion rebuilding plan, as Congress speeds ahead to shape the far-reaching package that touches almost all aspects of domestic life.

Kalispell board considers rules for legal marijuana

The Kalispell Planning Board looks to clear the smoke surrounding legal marijuana during its monthly meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 14.

Local quilter finds inspiration in myriad places

Local quilter finds inspiration in myriad places

County mulls purchase of new vote tabulators for elections

The Flathead County commissioners on Tuesday will further consider the purchase of new vote tabulators and a hardened laptop system for use in county elections, after tabling the matter Aug. 26.

NVH June births

North valley June births

Legals for September, 13 2021

Adapt or else: Downtown businesses cope with new reality

Downtown businesses in the U.S. and abroad once took for granted that nearby offices would provide a steady clientele looking for breakfast, lunch, everyday goods and services and last-minute gifts. As the resilient coronavirus keeps offices closed and workers at home, some are adapting while others are trying to hang on.

Law roundup: Man says dead badger has multiple uses

The Kalispell Police Department received a call about someone finding a couple of clothing items and a garbage bag that “smelled like a dead thing” and had maggots on it by some hedges.

Flathead veterans reflect on their service after 9/11

The events of Sept. 11, 2001 would forever change the lives of servicemen in all branches of the US military.

Farewell to Monica and her three cubs

Four female grizzly bears, — a sow known as Monica, along with her three yearling cubs — were killed in the North Fork last week.

Memories of Sept. 11, 2001

On Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2001, I was at work at my hometown newspaper, the Courier-Express in DuBois, Pennsylvania.

Tech verifications show big jump in bets as football begins

A company that most of the legal U.S. sports betting industry uses to verify that its customers are where they say they are reports a record number of transactions over the first weekend of the NFL season.

Legals for September, 12 2021

Vicki Jean York, 71

Vicki Jean York passed away to heaven on Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021.

Online safety tips offered as students resume classes

Unfortunately, this fall, parents are once again having to prepare in case online learning is fully instituted again. Protecting your child’s personal information and their privacy is essential for your own peace of mind.

Rodd Frye, 94

Rodd passed away on Nov. 10, 2020, with his loving wife, Vicki, at his side.

Vaccine mandate spawns new fear: finding and keeping workers

The new federal vaccine requirement announced by President Joe Biden has created another worry for large businesses: With help wanted signs up almost everywhere, some could lose valuable employees or won't be able to find new ones.

Death notices Sept. 12

Death notices Sept. 12

Huck's Place juices up downtown Whitefish

Huck’s Place sounds like a typical Montana eatery, but the food and drinks inside aren’t like anything else in the Flathead Valley.

Humphrey, defense power Griz past WIU

Montana quarterback Cam Humphrey threw for a career-best five touchdowns and the defense was again impenetrable in the No. 4 Grizzlies’ 42-7 thumping of Western Illinois Saturday.

Marion L. (Hope) Myers, 87

Marion L. (Hope) Myers passed away in Casper, Wyoming, on Aug. 29, 2021, with her family by her side after a short illness.

Doctors urge vaccination, not livestock dewormer, in fight against Covid

At least a few people in the Flathead Valley have become ill after taking a widely available antiparasitic drug meant for animals in hopes of treating or preventing Covid-19, according to local hospital officials.

Whitefish building permits

Whitefish building permits for August 2021

Consider the value of public schools in your community

I pen this letter upon return from a 1,700-mile journey to communities across the state and numerous hours of phone and online communications these past two weeks with administrators in Montana’s public schools.

Columbia Falls’ McPhee keys Montana-Western rally

Montana-Western scored three unanswered second-half touchdowns, two by Columbia Falls product Colten McPhee, and rallied past Dickinson State in an NAIA football game Saturday.

Sentinel sweeps Braves, Bravettes

The Braves fell 9-2 to Sentinel in a Western AA soccer game Saturday.

Glacier spikers beat Butte in 5

The Glacier Wolfpack bested Butte Saturday in Western AA volleyball, winning 3-2.

Capital cruises past Flathead, 57-0

Helena Capital rode defense and two rushing touchdowns each from Luke Sullivan and Dylan Graham to a 57-0 Western AA football win over Flathead Friday at Vigilante Stadium.

Lions fall short in battle with Fairfield

Miguel Perez and the No 2 Fairfield Eagles were too much for No. 6 Eureka Friday, beating the Lions 26-19 in an intraleague Class B football game.

Columbia Falls soccer scores wins over Stevi

The Columbia Falls Wildcats dealt Stevensville its first loss of the season on Saturday in a 2-0 non-conference Class A soccer win.

PHOTOS: 9/11 Honor & Serve Foundation's 20-year Remembrance Ceremony

Scenes from the 9/11 Honor & Serve Foundation's 20-year Remembrance Ceremony at Wrangler Springs Ranch in Bigfork on Saturday, Sept. 11.

PHOTOS: Kalispell American Legion Post 137's Freedom Walk

Scenes from Kalispell American Legion Post 137's Freedom Walk and commemorative ceremony at Depot Park in Kalispell on Saturday, Sept. 11.

Officials identify man whose body was pulled from river

The body of a man recovered from the Yellowstone River near Dover Park on Thursday has been identified as 71-year-old Gary Mollet.

World marks 20th anniversary of 9/11

The world solemnly marked the 20th anniversary of 9/11 on Saturday, remembering the dead, invoking the heroes and taking stock of the aftermath just weeks after the bloody end of the Afghanistan war that was launched in response to the terror attacks.

From 9/11's ashes, a new world took shape. It did not last.

In the ghastly rubble of Ground Zero's fallen towers 20 years ago, Hour Zero arrived, a chance to start anew.

Legals for September, 11 2021

Law roundup: Salesmen won't take no for an answer

Two persistent men were reported to the Columbia Falls Police Department after they showed up at a woman’s door and tried to enter the house to give her a “free estimate.”

Forest Service poised to approve massive Swan Valley project

The U.S. Forest Service is poised to greenlight part of a massive forestry project that aims to improve wildlife habitat while reducing fuels that increase the threat of wildfire to communities in the Swan Valley.

Janice Ellefson-Waggener

Janice Ellefson-Waggener, born and raised in Kalispell, passed away on Sept. 3, 2021, in Fort Worth, Texas.

Joyce Habel Franczek, 91

Joyce Habel Franczek, originally from Kalispell, passed away peacefully at Meridian Meadows Care in Meridian, Idaho, of natural causes on Sept. 1, 2021.

Bigfork foundation presents flag display to remember 9/11

A collection of 300 American flags wave in the wind, displayed in the field below the enormous flag that adorns the side of the barn near Bigfork, there to honor and remember loved ones, particularly ones who served in the military.

Bennett gets 100th win at Glacier

A couple landmarks were reached Friday at Legends Stadium, where Glacier dispatched stubborn Missoula Big Sky 56-20 in Western AA football.

Prep football roundup: Wildcats, Bulldogs roll, Vikings rout Cowboys

Cody Schweikert threw for 220 yards and a touchdown and ran for two scores to lead Columbia Falls past Ronan 42-6 in a Western A football contest Friday.

Bravette spikers top Bulldogs

The Flathead Bravettes topped the Butte Bulldogs in five sets Friday in Western AA volleyball.

PHOTOS: Glacier improves to 3-0 with win over Big Sky

Photos from Glacier's 56-20 win over Missoula Big Sky in a Class AA high school football game at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Friday, Sept. 10.

Glacier’s Ells, Flathead’s Rumsey Esch top Flathead Invite field

Glacier’s Sam Ells and Flathead’s Lilli Rumsey Esch took home individual titles at the Flathead Invitational at Rebecca Farm on Friday.

Glacier sweeps team titles; Flathead’s Wynne is medalist

It took a one-hole playoff but the Glacier Wolfpack completed a sweep Friday, winning the boys’ and girls’ team championships at the two-day Helena Invitational golf tournament.

Wolfpack soccer blanks Bulldogs

You can usually find John Pyron tending the goal for the Glacier Wolfpack, but Friday he played on the field and scored two goals to help the Wolfpack to a 4-0 win over Butte in Western AA soccer.

Biden's vaccine rules to set off barrage of legal challenges

President Joe Biden's sweeping new vaccine requirements have Republican governors threatening lawsuits. His unapologetic response: "Have at it."

Kalispell council OKs downtown hotel, silo projects

Transportation, development move forward in Kalispell

Kalispell man dies in crash near Whitefish

For unknown reasons, the Lexus crossed into the northbound lane and struck a Dodge Truck, driven by the Kalispell man, head-on despite his efforts to avoid the crash.

Legals for September, 10 2021

Transient woman pleads not guilty, released from jail

A transient woman with three pending felony charges was granted release from the Flathead County Detention Center last week after pleading not guilty.

Richard Allan Buzzard, 62

Richard Allan Buzzard went home to be with the Lord on Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021 in Columbia Falls, at the age of 62.

Law roundup: Woman reluctantly decides to call husband

A woman was “screaming and swearing at dispatch to call her husband.”

Kalispell man charged with negligent vehicular assault

A Kalispell man was booked into jail Tuesday after being charged with negligent vehicular assault after an April wreck that left a passenger with severe injuries.

Wildkats blank Valkyries in conference opener

Cheyanne Johnston-Heinz scored a hat trick for the Columbia Falls Wildcats in a 6-0 romp over the visiting Bigfork Valkyries in Northwest A soccer.

Bulldogs sweep Loggers

Whitefish, the top scoring team in the state, continued to rack up goals Thursday in a Northwest A soccer game, winning 11-1 over the Libby Loggers.

Bravettes log first win of season

The Bravettes got their first win Thursday, a 9-0 shutout of visitor Butte in Western AA soccer.

Unbeaten Glacier taking cautious approach to 1-1 Big Sky

Missoula Big Sky went 2-6 last football season, including a pair of lopsided losses to Glacier, and graduated dual-threat quarterback Colter Janacaro to the Montana Grizzlies.

Details released in deaths of newlywed couple at campsite

A newlywed couple that was gunned down near a Utah campsite had told friends that they were afraid of a "creepy man" that was near their camp prior to their death, according to newly unsealed police documents.

Gianforte promises to fight federal Covid-19 vaccine mandate

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte on Thursday said a new federal coronavirus vaccination mandate that could affect as many as 100 million Americans is "unlawful and un-American."

Traffic returns to U.S. 2 after Glacier ends reservation system

With a frustrating reservation system no longer in effect, motorists have flocked to the west entrance of Glacier National Park this week, causing long lines of slow-moving traffic to spill onto U.S. 2 and forcing park officials to close the gates and turn many visitors away.

Body recovered from Yellowstone River in Billings area

Authorities in south-central Montana have recovered a man's body from the Yellowstone River.

Fire crews battle two blazes in Whitefish

Firefighters from the Flathead Valley were extremely busy Thursday as they battled two blazes in the Whitefish area.

Contaminated site in Montana added to Superfund cleanup list

An area of Billings contaminated with dry cleaning chemicals that emit toxic vapors has been added to the federal government's Superfund list of cleanup sites.

Columbia Falls man jailed on attempted murder charge

A Columbia Falls man is in jail after he allegedly stabbed another man Thursday during an altercation at a residence on Martha Road.

Sweeping new vaccine mandates for 100 million Americans

President Joe Biden on Thursday is announcing sweeping new federal vaccine requirements affecting as many as 100 million Americans in an all-out effort to increase Covid-19 vaccinations and curb the surging delta variant that is killing thousands each week and jeopardizing the nation's economic recovery.

Several local events planned to mark 9/11 anniversary

The Flathead Valley will mark the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks during a number of events Saturday.

White House planning to withdraw ATF nomination

The White House will withdraw the nomination of a gun-control advocate to lead the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives after David Chipman ran into bipartisan opposition in the Senate, a person familiar with the decision said Thursday.

Scores of Westerners, including Americans, fly out of Kabul

Some 200 foreigners, including Americans, left Afghanistan on a commercial flight out of Kabul on Thursday, the first such large-scale departure since U.S. and other forces completed their frantic withdrawal over a week ago.

Montana Nurses Association slams state rule on school mask mandates

The Montana Nurses Association expressed serious concern Wednesday over the legality and scientific accuracy of an Aug. 31 emergency rule issued by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Hockaday hosts Art as Therapy exhibit and reception

The Hockaday Museum of Art is hosting a reception from 5 to 7 p.m. today, Sept. 9, for its community gallery exhibit, “Art as Therapy: A Healing Journey with the Montana Art Therapy Association.”

Fall is here and it's time to hunt

If you are a hunter like myself, most of us feel we are entering the best three months of the year.

Letters to the editor Sept. 9

Letters to the editor Sept. 9

0909 TWIF briefs

WTC hosts volunteer day

Comedians put on show in friend’s memory

Laugh Factory comedian and host Aidan Park will headline the Elks Club Standup Comedy Show Friday, Sept. 10, at the Elks Lodge, 1820 U.S. 93 S., in Kalispell.

Charles R. Storkson

Charles R. Storkson passed away on Sept. 5, 2021, in Sanders County, Montana.

Mark Anthony Klein, 57

On the morning of Sept. 1, 2021, Mark Klein went to be with the Lord. He passed away at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena after battling Covid-19, with his wife and daughter by his side.

WTC announces auditions for ‘The Cemetery Club’

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for “The Cemetery Club,” its first Black Curtain theatre production of the 2021-2022 season.

Great Fish Challenge goes on air with KGEZ

The Great Fish Community Challenge is coming to a close at 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17.

Fire lookout rentals take camping to the next level

It’s a good time to get above the fray in a fire-tower lookout.

Legals for September, 9 2021

Rose Crossing safety project completed

A safety improvement project to adjust a troublesome 90-degree turn on Rose Crossing near Kalispell has been completed, except for hydroseeding in the road right of way that will happen this fall.

Law roundup: Cook’s extra effort goes up in flames

Someone took “extra crispy” to the extreme while cooking a pizza when a small cooking fire erupted on a kitchen stove.

Whitefish Songwriter Festival draws national talent

For three days and nights downtown Whitefish will come alive for the Whitefish Songwriter Festival with six hit songwriters and 17 rising stars performing more than 30 shows in the restaurants, bars, theaters, and Whitefish’s Depot Park.

Outdoors briefs

Whitefish Legacy Partners and Counter Assault will host an interactive hike on the Whitefish Trail from noon-2 p.m. Saturday.

Small community loses grizzly family

Bear No. 418, known to locals as Monica, was euthanized Saturday, Sept. 4 along with her three female yearlings, after receiving a multitude of food rewards over the past week.

Hazel Hunt Pederson, 84

Hazel Hunt Pederson passed away at her home on Saturday, Sept. 4, 2021.

Soccer game changes for Glacier, Flathead

The Flathead and Glacier high schools have been forced to reschedule or adjust several soccer games this week due to a bus driver shortage in the area.

The 500-times-2 club welcomes Polson’s Wilson

Polson coach Kaden Glinsmann has no intention of counting the numbers racked up — including four touchdown passes by Jarrett Wilson — in a 49-21 win over the Glacier junior varsity on Aug. 27.

Montana panel backs $22 million investment in job training

A commission discussing how to spend federal Covid-19 relief dollars is recommending Montana's governor approve $22 million for job training and retraining programs to increase the workforce as businesses struggle to find enough employees.

Hiker's body airlifted from Glacier National Park

A Two Bear Air helicopter crew on Tuesday afternoon recovered the body of a 34-year-old woman who went missing last week during an apparent solo hike in Glacier National Park.

4 North Fork grizzlies killed after getting into garbage

Wildlife officials trapped and killed a sow grizzly and her three cubs in the North Fork area last week after the bears got into unsecured garbage cans and broke into vehicles in search of food.

Covid surge, lab delays challenge county contact tracers

Covid case investigators at the Flathead City-County Health Department are struggling to keep up as the contagious delta variant continues to spread in the valley.

Montana asks court to drop suit targeting new abortion laws

Montana's Republican attorney general is asking the court to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Planned Parenthood last month seeking to block four new laws that would restrict access to abortion in the state.

North Dakota trooper fatally shoots Montana man after chase

A North Dakota Highway Patrol trooper shot and killed a man following a pursuit on Interstate 94 in the western part of the state, authorities said Wednesday.

St. Ignatius woman dies in Ravalli County crash

A 30-year-old St. Ignatius woman died and four others in the vehicle were taken to area hospitals after a one-vehicle traffic accident Tuesday evening near Stevensville.

William 'Bill' Burns, 75

William “Bill” Burns, a resident of Whitefish, formerly of Haverhill, Massachusetts, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, in Kalispell, at the age of 75 years.

Idaho hospitals to ration health care amid Covid surge

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Amid the Idaho coronavirus surge that prompted officials to authorize hospitals to ration health care, Army soldiers sent to one hospital have traded their fatigues for personal protective equipment to help treat a flood of infected patients.

Law roundup: Business owner distressed over hullabaloo

A business owner reportedly heard a big hullabaloo downtown and wanted the Kalispell Police Department to drive by and check it out rather than himself, implying he would incite violence if he caught anyone at his business. Nothing suspicious was found.

Dollie V. (Ayers) Olson, 89

Dollie V. (Ayers) Olson was welcomed into heaven on Sept. 4, 2021, at the age of 89.

Carolyn D. Settle-Lee, 77

Born to Tom and Eileen Close in Glendale, California, Feb. 19, 1944, Carolyn was the oldest of four girls.

Fundraising event hits radio waves due to Covid

The Whitefish Community Foundation and KGEZ Radio will broadcast a live program on Friday to celebrate the achievements of the 61 local nonprofits participating in the foundation's Great Fish Community Challenge.

David Jacobs, 78

David Jacobs, 78, of Somers passed away on Saturday, Aug. 28, 2021, at his home surrounded by his family.

Comedians stand up for suicide prevention awareness

Vincent "Vince" Carr had been riding a steady wave on the local comedy scene last year, even amid the pandemic.

Randy C. Grout, 70

Randy C. Grout passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on July 27, 2021, at the age of 70, just three months after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Plains man headed to prison for string of burglaries, thefts

A Northwest Montana man involved in a series of burglaries and thefts with several other individuals is headed to prison after he was sentenced last Thursday in Flathead County District Court.

Former Glacier Park worker gets prison time for sexual assault

A Chicago man who sexually assaulted an incapacitated coworker at Glacier National Park last summer has been sentenced to five years in prison.

Jack L. Heil

Jack L. Heil of Columbia Falls passed away peacefully in Montana due to natural causes on Aug. 31, 2021, at the age of 82.

Jerry W. Olson, 77

Jerry passed away peacefully on Aug. 9, 2021, at his home in Somers, at the age of 77.

Sun Road reservation system gets mixed reviews

Glacier National Park's reservation system for the Going-to-the-Sun Road ended Monday after a three-month trial run. For the remainder of the 2021 visitor season, all that's required to get on the scenic thoroughfare is a standard park pass.

Legals for September, 8 2021

Griz already cooking up front with Cook and Co.

The first thing to realize about the Montana Grizzlies’ 13-7 win at (then-No. 20) Washington Saturday is that they had to win the battle up front.

Avery shines, Glacier sweeps at Whitefish tourney

Tyler Avery earned medalist honors and helped Glacier sweep the Whitefish Triangular golf tournament held Tuesday at Whitefish Lake Golf Course.

Polson man charged with murder in Colorado

A Polson man residing in Aurora, Colorado, was taken into custody Sunday morning and charged with first-degree murder following the death of a 20-year-old woman, also of Polson.

Bicycle-truck accident claims life of man in Browning

A Great Falls man riding a bicycle died Tuesday after colliding with a pickup truck Sunday in Browning.

National Park Service still waiting for Biden to pick a director

The last time the National Park Service had a Senate-confirmed director, Joe Biden was vice president.

Idaho hospitals begin rationing health care amid Covid surge

Idaho public health leaders announced Tuesday that they activated "crisis standards of care" allowing health care rationing for the state's northern hospitals because there are more coronavirus patients than the institutions can handle.

Human remains found in Flathead River

Rafters discovered human remains in the Flathead River while floating below the Pressentine Bar fishing access site on Monday.

Prized trout streams shrink as heat, drought grip US West

The North Platte River in southern Wyoming has been so low in places lately that a toddler could easily wade across and thick mats of olive-green algae grow in the lazy current.

Legals for September, 7 2021

School-based health clinics open to students in Kalispell, Evergreen

Students' access to affordable health care is now steps away from the classroom at two new health clinics at the Linderman Education Center in Kalispell and East Evergreen Elementary.

Whitefish Community Foundation accepting fall grant applications

The Whitefish Community Foundation is accepting community grant applications from eligible nonprofits until 4 p.m. on Sept. 30.

Libby crews clearing waste from public land once claimed by City Council candidate

City workers in Libby are busy cleaning up piles of waste and debris on public land off City Service Road — land that City Council candidate Darrel "DC" Orr claimed was his in a recent dispute with MontanaSky, the internet service provider for the area.

Zone change proposed for acreage near Happy Valley

A proposal to alter the zoning on roughly 28 acres north of Happy Valley to allow further development is among four zone-change requests awaiting the Flathead County Planning Board at its Wednesday meeting.

Landowners demand Columbia Falls close Old Red Bridge park

The city of Columbia Falls and a couple of local landowners are at odds over the Old Red Bridge park.

Deer Lodge man dies, 2 Flathead residents hospitalized after crash near Marion

A Deer Lodge man died and two Flathead Valley residents were hospitalized Monday after a two-vehicle crash on U.S. 2 near Marion.

Report on 2019 plane crash that killed 3 Indiana men delayed

Two years after a plane crash killed three Indiana men in Montana, the government has yet to release a final report on the incident.

Kalispell motorcyclist killed in crash near Plains

A 55-year-old Kalispell resident was killed in a motorcycle accident Sunday evening on Montana 28 in Sanders County near Plains, the Montana Highway Patrol reported.

New Bigfork superintendent brings 24 years of education experience

Tom Stack is excited for the school bell to ring in the first day of school of his first year as superintendent of the Bigfork School District.

Protests disrupt autobahn traffic before German auto show

Protests disrupt autobahn traffic before German auto show

Early stumble as El Salvador starts Bitcoin as currency

Early stumble as El Salvador starts Bitcoin as currency

Whitefish mulls stricter rules on short-term rentals

Whitefish officials are considering a litany of new regulations on short-term rentals, which are often blamed for displacing permanent residents and contributing to a severe shortage of affordable housing in the area.

Law roundup: Woman ties up 911 line to report speeders

A woman called 911 extremely upset over vehicles speeding on her road and someone flipping her off.

Legals for September, 6 2021

Letters to the editor Sept. 6

Letters to the editor Sept. 6

Glacier unveils plan to phase out sightseeing flights over park

Officials are asking the public to weigh in on a plan to manage — and eventually phase out — commercial aircraft tours over Glacier National Park.

New Jersey’s largest dairy farm nearly destroyed in tornado

New Jersey’s largest dairy farm nearly destroyed in tornado

Kalispell council nears decisions on three large projects

Three items on the Kalispell City Council's Tuesday meeting agenda have the potential to reshape the city's landscape.

China’s trade accelerates in August despite coronavirus

China’s trade accelerates in August despite coronavirus

Wildkats win a thriller

High School volleyball

Searchers find hiker's body in Glacier National Park

Searchers on Sunday afternoon found the body of a 34-year-old woman who was reported missing Wednesday in Glacier National Park.

Body found in vehicle in Montana irrigation ditch

A body was found in a vehicle that had been submerged in an irrigation ditch in south-central Montana, Carbon County officials said Sunday.

Law roundup: Man punches, destroys bedroom door

A man alleged a sibling’s spouse destroyed a bedroom door by punching holes in it and told Columbia Falls Police Department the two were arguing outside the Diane Road residence.

Susan Jennings Moyer, 83

Longtime community builder and visionary, Susan Moyer, passed away on Aug. 7, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell.

Flower farms proliferate across Flathead Valley

From tiny backyards to wide-open farms, a local flower movement is taking root. "It's all about using flowers grown locally and seasonally," said April Vomfell, who started one of the first flower farms in the Flathead Valley.

Dale James Bjorge, 77

Dale James Bjorge, 77, of Kalispell, passed away on Aug. 29, 2021.

Whitefish company brings laser tag to the great outdoors

Whitefish's Janet Coombs was looking for a bit of fun when she asked a friend to help her start an outdoor laser tag business. Twelve years and countless events later, she still brings the fun of the unique sport to many in the Flathead Valley and beyond.

Giving in tmes of disaster: 5 details to consider

Amid a pandemic and economic uncertainty, charitable contributions topped a record-breaking $471.4 billion in 2020, according to the Giving USA Report.

Legals for September, 5 2021

Scott Hedges, 73

Born Charles Scott Hedges on July 8, 1947, to Charles and Lois Hedges in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Scott died June 13, 2021, at his home in Bigfork.

Federal oil, gas leasing program back in play in Montana

The federal government is moving forward with oil and gas leasing on 6,277 acres of Bureau of Land Management property in Montana following a judicial order directing the Department of the Interior to resume lease sales on federal lands.

William Burns, 75

William Burns, 75, passed away on Aug. 28, 2021.

Lisa Knudsvig Gilliss, 60

Our beautiful daughter, wife, mother and sister, Lisa Knudsvig Gilliss, died Aug. 29, 2021, in California of CJD disease.

Vietnam veteran shares battle with PTSD to help others

There are many reasons why people write — to share their stories, to educate, to entertain. In Vietnam veteran Stan Bain's case, it's to unburden his spirit and let other veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder know they aren't alone.

Letters to the editor Sept. 5

Letters to the editor Sept. 5

New owner plans to revamp Scotty's Bar

One of the most recognizable signs in Kalispell is coming down outside Scotty's Bar.

UM women's entrepreneurship program gets grant to expand online classes

The University of Montana's Women's Entrepreneurship and Leadership Lab launched this week with a grant from Wells Fargo to expand programs for women looking to start or grow their businesses.

Hiring woes continue, but report offers encouraging signs

This Labor Day we honor the American worker and celebrate the symbolic end of summer — and what a summer it has been for the valley’s frontline employees.

Flathead gained more jobs than any Montana county this summer

Flathead County had the highest employment gains of any Montana county in July, according to statistics from the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

Salsa Saturday

Last weekend I indulged myself by sleeping in as long as I felt like, following a week or more of hosting a houseful of company.

James Michael 'Mike' Ghrames, 80

born Feb. 20, 1941, in Port Angeles, Washington, to Bertha Rae and William Joseph Ghrames.

Kalispell salon enterprise gets a makeover

With changes coming to two local salons, their owners are aiming for a productive transition.

Kalispell's Ceres Bakery adds space at downtown location

Rick Grimm compares the growth of Ceres Bakery to the process of baking bread. "It's been a slow, steady rise," said Grimm, who co-owns the Kalispell business with his wife, Hannah Bjornson.

Stand up for working families

Working Montana families are the backbone of our state.

This Labor Day, Don’t forget the injustice of forced union dues

America’s working men and women have faced unprecedented challenges over the course of the pandemic, and on Labor Day we shouldn’t only be remembering their dedication but redoubling our efforts to protect their individual rights in the workplace.

Land of the free because we are home of the brave

I’ve had a hard time finding any words to describe how myself, and I’m sure many other Americans, feel right now.

Flathead media personality retires after 30 years

Some know her just by the sound of her voice. Others, from her email signature. But through one medium or another, Wendy Ostrom-Price has forged connections with thousands of community members over the course of her 30-year career.

National security and honoring our values: Montana and Afghanistan

The fall of the Afghan government and the return of the Taliban has left policymakers and the public grasping for answers and apportioning blame.

Flathead Business Watercooler

0905 biz watercooler

Nadeau scores 5, Valkyries shut out Lockwood 7-0

Scout Nadeau buried five goals for the Bigfork Valkyries in a 7-0 rout of the Lockwood Lions on Saturday in a non-conference Class A soccer game.

Eureka shuts out Conrad 35-0

Caleb Utter ran for two touchdowns and passed for two more Friday, and Eureka’s defense was sturdy in a 35-0 non-conference football win at Conrad.

Wilson has huge game, Polson routs Stevi

Junior quarterback Jarrett Wilson had another huge Friday, throwing for 565 yards and seven touchdowns in Polson’s 52-12 win at Western A foe Stevensville.

C-Falls splits with Laurel, Whitefish girls beat Corvallis

The Columbia Falls Wildcats’ offense had another strong showing Saturday, beating Laurel 6-1 in a non-conference Class A soccer game.

Grizzlies roar: Montana shocks No. 20 Washington 13-7

A couple of weeks before the season started, Montana coach Bobby Hauck met with university president Seth Bodnar. His message was clear: The Grizzlies were going to be really good and even might take down Washington in the opener.

On burned land, Montana couple gets help to build Earthship

Bill and Ruth Craven's longtime dream to build and live in an Earthship was nearly snuffed out in mid-June.

Polson man dies in Saturday morning traffic crash

A Polson man died in a traffic crash on Interstate 90 early Saturday morning.

Time to update Montana’s child nutrition policies

All children across Montana deserve access to fresh, local food that nourishes their bodies and minds.

Letters to the editor Sept. 4

Letters to the editor Sept. 4

Law roundup: Man calls police about vehicle squabble

A man called the Kalispell Police Department on his way to the Flathead County Department of Motor Vehicles.

Crews to resume US 93 work near Lakeside

The Montana Department of Transportation plans to resume work Tuesday on the U.S. 93 Lakeside North and South Project.

Legals for September, 4 2021

Surviving 9/11 was 'just the first piece of the journey'

Trapped deep in the wreckage of the World Trade Center, Will Jimeno lived through the unthinkable. Twenty years later, he's still living with it.

Mother allegedly drove high with baby in vehicle

A Whitefish woman who allegedly drove while under the influence of drugs with her infant child in the vehicle has been jailed.

Vaccine mandate could impact staffing at Flathead nursing homes

Montana's long-term care facilities could face staffing challenges and financial uncertainty if the Biden administration moves forward with a plan to require Covid-19 vaccinations for staff at federally funded nursing homes.

Frances 'Fran' Berlove Lantieri, 98

Frances “Fran” Berlove Lantieri passed away peacefully on Aug. 27, 2021, at 98 ½ years in Columbia Falls.

Glacier rides Rendina, quick start past CMR

The big back was back leading the Glacier offense Friday, with Jake Rendina leading the Wolfpack’s 33-21 win over Great Falls CM Russell in AA football.

Ridgeway throws 3 TDs as Bulldogs bust Broncs

Fynn Ridgeway through for 247 yards and three touchdowns, and the Whitefish Bulldogs held off Frenchtown for another Western A football victory Friday, 20-14.

Raptors get out quick, cruise past Braves 49-7

Two weeks and two slow starts spelled out an 0-2 record for the Flathead Braves, who fell 49-7 to the talented Gallatin Raptors Friday in Class AA football at Legends Stadium.

Whitefish soccer doubles up on Hamilton

Sophie Olson and Emma Barron each scored two goals for the Whitefish Bulldogs in a 8-2 win over Hamilton on Friday.

C-Falls’ Robison breaks state assist record

Maddie Robison scored a hat trick and broke the Montana all-class record for career assists in a 10-0 Wildkats win over Lockwood Friday.

PHOTOS: Flathead falls to Gallatin

Photos from the Flathead Braves vs. the Gallatin Raptors Class AA high school football game at Legends Stadium on Friday, Sept. 3. Gallatin won, 49-7.

Somers-Lakeside schools reverse course, make masks optional

The Somers-Lakeside School Board on Thursday voted to make face coverings optional for students this school year, reversing a previous decision that made masks mandatory.

Missoula man killed by Montana deputies is identified

Authorities on Friday identified a 31-year-old man who was killed by Missoula County sheriff's deputies responding to reports the man was swinging a machete and making lethal threats.

Applied Materials plans to buy Shopko building in Evergreen

Tech manufacturer Applied Materials is looking to expand its Flathead Valley operations with plans to purchase the empty Shopko department store building near the intersection of U.S. 2 and Montana 35 in Evergreen.

No. 20 Washington welcomes back fans, noise hosting Montana

Jimmy Lake never heard the groans that accompany a controversial decision, the cheers for a big play, or experienced walking off the field to adulation following a victory last year.

Man allegedly shoots girlfriend during dispute

A Kalispell man involved in a standoff with police following a domestic assault in 2020 is back in jail after he allegedly shot his girlfriend.

Creston mechanic's showpieces to be displayed at Rumble in the Bay

Steve Melkioty's passion for cars began as a star-struck kid when he saw a hot rod racing down the street.

Historic Rollins schoolhouse could soon have new owner

A small white schoolhouse has stood overlooking Flathead Lake above the east shore of Canal Bay in Rollins since 1911 — shortly after Rollins got its name. On Monday, the building and the land it sits on could change hands for the first time in more than a century.

Law roundup: Man gets tongue lashing for rooster complaint

A woman complained to the Columbia Falls Police Department that her husband was “verbally assaulted” by a neighbor he confronted about keeping a rooster on their property.

Search expands for hiker missing in Glacier National Park

Officials continued searching Friday for a 34-year-old Virginia woman reported missing in Glacier National Park.

Legals for September, 3 2021

Carol Swimley, 64

Carol Swimley, 64, of Libby passed away on Feb. 9, 2021, after a short battle with brain cancer.

Hellgate teams trip Glacier

Just when it seemed like the Glacier Wolfpack got on a roll, the final whistle blew.

Raptors in town for Flathead home opener

A tough beginning set up Flathead for the fall last week, but now the Braves get to play a football game at home, against a similarly young opponent.

Eureka, Bigfork reload in chase of Falcons

The Eureka Lions have been a power in the Western B and Class B football landscape for a while now, with three state championships in the last five years.

Whitefish boys, C-Falls girls sets sights high

Whitefish cross country coach Richard Menicke is well aware Hamilton returns just about everybody from its dominant 2020 State A boys’ championship team.

Park officials kill black bear that threatened Glacier campers

Glacier National Park staff on Thursday euthanized a black bear that had repeatedly wandered through the Many Glacier Campground, showing no fear of people, approaching visitors and stealing food, officials said.

3 students detained, said they had gun, planned shooting

Three juveniles were detained for questioning Thursday after reports that some students at Hellgate High School in Missoula indicated they planned a school shooting, Missoula police said.

Flathead Covid vaccination rate ticking upward

Health officials say Flathead County's Covid-19 vaccination rate is ticking upward by nearly 1% each week, a promising trend as the highly contagious delta variant continues to move through the valley's unvaccinated population.

Columbia Falls brewery among businesses suing Montana secretary of state over duplicate charges

Backslope Brewing of Columbia Falls is one of seven small businesses that have sued Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen, alleging her office overcharged many businesses for various fees and then declined to issue refunds unless requested in writing.

Whitefish Oktoberfest canceled due to Covid — again

Whitefish's Oktoberfest celebrations have been canceled for a second year in a row due to Covid-19.

High court divides 5-4 to leave Texas abortion law in place

A deeply divided Supreme Court is allowing a Texas law that bans most abortions to remain in force, for now stripping most women of the right to an abortion in the nation's second-largest state.

Ida's remnants bring historic rainfall to Northeast

The remnants of Hurricane Ida inundated large swaths of the northeastern U.S. with historic and unanticipated fury Wednesday night, killing at least 14 people in flooding in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania as basement apartments suddenly filled with water, rivers and creeks swelled to record levels and roadways turned into car-swallowing canals.

Doctors are tired and frustrated

This letter is for my coworkers and the vulnerable people in our community. The words come from my experience with real Covid infected patients.

Whitefish men embroiled in lawsuits alleging nefarious activity

Three Whitefish residents are embroiled in lawsuits involving each other that include claims of trying to derail a criminal investigation, an alleged sexual scheme and participating in racketeering activity.

Debra Gay Wolfshorndl, 68

Debra Gay Wolfshorndl, 68, went to be with her Lord on Aug. 30, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell after a brave battle with COVID.

Law roundup: Ghost, the friendly dog, reunited with owner

Instead of being scary, a big, white dog on the loose who responded to “Ghost” turned out to be friendly to someone who found the canine. The person called the Kalispell Police Department to report the spirited dog was reunited with its owner.

North Valley Music School offers fall programs

North Valley Music School starts its 2021/2022 program year with a fall schedule of diverse, inclusive music programs.

Flathead Lake State Park to host 9/11 remembrance day

Flathead Lake State Park will host a day of remembrance for the lives lost during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks at the Wayfarers Unit in Bigfork this Saturday.

Benefit for the Hockaday planned on Swan River

“Montana is My Home,” a benefit for the Hockaday Museum of Art, is a Western Montana-style celebration happening from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2, and hosted by Denny and Kitty Kellogg at their Montana homestead on the Swan River.

Letters to the editor Sept. 2

Letters to the editor Sept. 2

Jim Elliott: Keeping it together

If Americans really want something to worry about, let’s worry about keeping our country together.

State wants to simplify hunting regulations for 2022-23 seasons

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is starting a biennial review of the state's hunting regulations, and this year the department is looking to take a fresh approach.

0902 TWIF Briefs

Columbia Falls’ Movie in the Park nights open with ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’

Legals for September, 2 2021

Former Whitefish police chief responds to corruption allegations

The Whitefish interim chief of police and the department's former longtime chief are the subjects of an investigation by state officials after alleged acts of corruption involving another Whitefish man who is facing separate federal fraud charges.

Drake White and Kasey Tyndall perform at The Remington

Drake White will headline a live concert Saturday, Sept. 4, at the Remington in Whitefish.

Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theater auditions for ‘Lion King Jr.’

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theater invites students in grades 2 through 12 to audition Tuesday, Sept. 7, (the day after Labor Day) for the cast of Disney's hit musical "The Lion King Jr.”

Oberling’s ‘My Montana’ exhibit featured at Phillips Studio and Gallery

New works by artist Nicholas Oberling will be featured during September at Phillips Studio and Gallery.

Block management area info available for hunters

Hunters can obtain the 2021 Block Management Area Access Guide online or download or print BMA maps at fwp.mt.gov/bma.

Susan Jennings Moyer, 83

Longtime community builder and visionary, Susan Moyer, passed away on Aug. 7, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell.

COLUMN: Highlighting a not very long ago era

It has been 20 years since the Montana Grizzlies won the Football Championship Subdivision title, and that’s a decent interval even if, at least for me, it has gone by in a blink.

Flathead girls strongest of local AA harriers

As the Class AA cross country season opens up — the Coaches Invitational will bring Flathead and Glacier to Missoula today — it still stands that perennial powers Missoula Hellgate and Bozeman have a few lengths on the competition.

Lions still roaring, but Viking boys could make noise

Eureka has the recent pedigree, with the last two State B cross country boys’ championships safely behind the trophy case at Lincoln County High School.

Can 'active forest management' really reduce wildfire risk?

With two active disaster declarations underway — one for drought issued on July 1 and another for wildfire on July 14 — Gov. Greg Gianforte is in the thick of a crisis response that's expected to continue for at least another month, maybe two, according to the most recent wildfire forecast.

Investigation identifies remains found in Montana wilderness

Investigators using forensic genealogy have been able to identify human remains found in a southwestern Montana wilderness area seven years ago as a Texas man who was last seen by his parents in 2011, Granite County Sheriff Scott Dunkerson said.

More Northwest Montana Fair winners announced

The Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo has announced more contest winners. The fair ran from Aug. 16 to Aug. 22 and saw near-record attendance.

County poised to approve $117M budget

The Flathead County commissioners are poised to approve the final version of the county's operating budget for the 2021-22 fiscal year on Thursday.

Legals for September, 1 2021

George Burton Cox III, 57

George Burton Cox III, 57, passed away due to lung complications caused by Covid-19 on Aug. 25, 2021, at Logan Health Hospital in Kalispell, surrounded by his loving family.

Jerry Meerkatz, 63

Jerry Meerkatz was born on Dec. 21, 1957, in Rawlins, Wyoming.

IRS says scammers targeting federal stimulus payments

The IRS says it received a record number of complaints in June and July about scams related to economic impact payments — the federal stimulus checks delivered to Americans throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Andrew Allen White, 57

Andrew Allen White, 57, passed away at his home in Columbia Falls on Aug. 27, 2021, after a long-term battle with diabetes.

Lavine A. Heuscher, 80

Lavine passed away on Aug. 22, 2021, of natural causes.

Sharon Ann Landon-Miller, 75

Musician and retired Head-Start teacher Sharon Ann Landon-Miller, 75, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on Aug. 18, 2021, after a courageous battle with end stage kidney disease.

Plans for revamped skate park in Troy begin to cement

Thanks to a recent swell in public support, Troy community organizers and city officials are working with a construction firm to give the municipality's skate park a facelift.

Richard Cary Benner, 74

Richard Cary Benner, born Jan. 30, 1947, in Eugene, Oregon, went gently into his heavenly Father’s arms in his sleep in Polson on July 30, 2021.

Michael Kuchenbrod, 57

On Aug. 21, 2021, Michael Kuchenbrod, beloved son, brother and uncle, passed away at the age of 57.