Ellington

Boy dies in apparent drowning at Montana hot springs resort

Authorities in Montana say they are investigating the apparent drowning of a 14-year—old boy at a hot springs resort pool. Butte Silver-Bow Sheriff Ed Lester says the incident happened Friday at Fairmont Hot Springs west of Butte.

Montana man sentenced to state hospital for mother's murder

A Montana judge sentenced a Billings man to 75 years custody of the state health department for the murder of his mother and other crimes.

Montana highway patrol settles with Wyoming man over crash

The state of Montana has reached a $270,000 settlement with a Wyoming man who was forced into a ditch to avoid colliding with a state trooper who made an illegal U-turn.

Whitefish Interim Police Chief cleared of misconduct

State officials have cleared Whitefish Interim Police Chief Bridger Kelch regarding allegations of misconduct.

Idaho National Guard to aid COVID-hit prisons, clinics

The Idaho National Guard is being deployed to help doctors' offices and the state prison system amid overwhelming staffing shortages caused by coronavirus.

Trudeau tests positive for Covid, rips anti-mandate demo

TORONTO (AP) — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Monday he has tested positive for Covid-19 but is "feeling fine" and will continue to work remotely from home.

Christy Clark to lead Montana Department of Ag

Gov. Greg Gianforte has appointed former Republican Rep. Christy Clark as the new director of the Montana Department of Agriculture, the governor’s office said in a news release on Monday.

States that shared Covid test kits now hoarding them

In a few short months, states have gone from donating surplus rapid covid-19 tests to states with shortages to hoarding them as demand driven by the spike in cases strains supplies.

Letters to the editor Jan. 31

Letters to the editor Jan. 31

Legals for January, 31 2022

Columbia Falls man leads clean water initiative in Guatemala

Columbia Falls man leads clean water initiative in Guatemala

Class A: Columbia Falls Speech and Debate takes second at state

The Columbia Falls High School Speech and Debate team capped a competitive season as the Class A state runner-up in Corvallis over the weekend.

Class AA: Glacier 2nd, Flathead 3rd at state speech and debate tournament

The three Class AA high school speech and debate powerhouses battled it out at the state tournament in Helena this weekend with Bozeman capturing the championship title, Glacier second and Flathead third.

Wolf hunting and trapping down despite added opportunities

Following years of record regional harvests, hunters and trappers in the northwestern corner of the state have so far achieved less than a third of total state-sanctioned wolf kills for the season.

Knights squeeze past Flathead boys, 39-36

The way the fourth quarter was going for Joston Cripe, you half expected his desperation three-quarter court buzzer-beater to go in Saturday afternoon.

Flathead grapplers sweep Butte, end regular season unbeaten

Flathead wrestling finished the season undefeated in duals on both the boys and girls sides with a sweep of duals in Butte Saturday.

Glacier wrestlers beat Big Sky 51-15

The Glacier Wolfpack dominated the Missoula Big Sky Eagles 51-15 in a dual Saturday, the last of the regular season.

Hellgate drops Flathead in battle of unbeatens

Bailee Sayler led four Missoula Hellgate players in double figures with 13 points, and the Knights handed Flathead an emphatic first loss Saturday, 58-22.

0130 Whitefish building permits

Whitefish building permits

Local boards realizing that the people are awakening

In this writer’s 45 plus years of teaching high school American Government classes, it was repeatedly emphasized that even though everyone concentrates on the p[residential race, the U.S. congressional races and the statewide races, the public officials that affect your everyday life the most are your county commissioners, city councilors, school board trustees and county sheriff.

To protect Montanans’ privacy, we must address facial recognition technology

Our rights to not have our property or persons searched or seized without a warrant, to not be harassed by the government without good reason, and to conduct our own peaceful affairs with minimal intrusion are increasingly challenged by new technology.

We need housing solutions for all economic backgrounds

“Our lives begin to end when we become silent about the things that matter” is what Carol Atkinson said on Jan. 18 to drum up support from Whitefish City Council to oppose the passage of the Mountain Gateway housing proposal on Big Mountain Road.

Septic facility among county’s most pressing needs

When it comes to planning ahead for the Flathead Valley’s current and future growth, time is of the essence.

Hockaday celebrates the 20th anniversary of its Members Salon exhibit — A celebration of local art and diverse artists

Hockaday celebrates the 20th anniversary of its Members Salon exhibit A celebration of local art and diverse artists

‘Family-friendly’ salon offers variety of services

‘Family-friendly’ salon offers variety of services

Law roundup: Screaming man gets one-way ticket off train

Whitefish Police Department was called and a man was allegedly removed from a train after screaming at the conductor.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Geri Ellingson

Geri Ellingson was born in Roseville, California, on the first day of spring 1930 to Ethel and Walter Saathoff, a railroad man.

Legals for January, 30 2022

Company cleans up industry model

Company cleans up industry model

Flathead Business Watercooler

Flathead Business Watercooler

Montana is the child removal capital of America, and that’s bad for children

Auditors for the Montana Legislature have now made clear that Montana’s “child welfare” system is not about children and does not promote their welfare. Perhaps now, thanks to a performance audit of the Child and Family Services Division, lawmakers will face up to the harm done by Montana’s dubious distinction, child removal capital of America.

Letters to the editor Jan. 30

Letters to the editor Jan. 30

Karla Jo Murray, 65

Karla Jo Murray, 65, passed away on Jan. 17, 2022, at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell after a short, brave battle with pneumonia.

Whitefish football coach Ross stepping down

Chad Ross figured he might be done coaching a couple years ago, with his daughter Cailyn due to finish her collegiate volleyball career at Kean University.

Quest complete for two Flathead High students

Seniors receive full-ride scholarships to top colleges

When Flathead senior Maayana Sattler found out she was named a QuestBridge Scholar, she went to one of her speech and debate coach’s classrooms and collapsed with excitement when sharing the news.

Who said it: The kids are alright

The temperature hovered below freezing, and the sun hid behind a gray cover of clouds, but the mood inside Flathead High School was anything but gloomy.

Bigfork Vals down Loyola on road

Braeden Gunlock tossed in 18 points, Emma Berreth and Scout Nadeau contributed 14 each and No. 4 Bigfork thumped Missoula Loyola 60-45 in non-conference girls basketball Saturday.

Williams, Andersen help Libby knock down Ronan

Caden Williams scored 22 points, nine in the fourth quarter, and the Libby Loggers rallied past Ronan 61-53 in Northwest A boys basketball Saturday.

Transporting stolen firearms sends Kalispell man to prison

A Kalispell man who admitted to transporting stolen firearms and ammunition from a storage unit after an abandoned rental truck was found in Idaho was sentenced Friday to two years in prison.

Judge rules against whitewater rafting firms in wage dispute

A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit by Colorado rafting outfitters who object to paying a $15 hourly minimum wage to seasonal employees under a new federal rule, rejecting their argument that their permits to use federal land for overnight trips don't make them federal contractors who must pay the wage.

Montana curbs wolf hunt after 23 from Yellowstone killed

Montana wildlife commissioners on Friday moved to shut down gray wolf hunting in a portion of the state around Yellowstone National Park, amid mounting criticism over a record number of the animals shot or trapped after roaming across the park boundary this winter.

Law roundup: Man attempts to run over another in Kila

Man attempts to run over another in Kila

Larry Allan Nevidomsky, 67

Larry Allan Nevidomsky passed away on Jan. 24, 2022, at Logan Health, at the age of 67.

Punitive measures hold back needed housing

The “bold housing” initiative proposed by the Daily Inter Lake editorial board (Jan. 23) is a welcomed, albeit late, alarm bell that needs a few term definitions before it can proceed.

David Franklin Swayne Sr., 81

David “Dave,” “Chief” Franklin Swayne Sr., 81, of Polson, passed away peacefully on Jan. 20, 2022.

Legals for January, 29 2022

Letters to the editor Jan. 29

Letters to the editor Jan. 29

Flathead Fusion senior night at Stumptown today

Saturday is senior night for the Flathead Fusion at Stumptown Ice Den in Whitefish today against the visiting Billings Bulls.

Flathead Brawlers scored two more dual wins

Getting two wins each from William Barnes, Diesel Thompson, Noah Poe-Hatten and Chase Youso, Flathead swept duals with the Helena schools, 44-25 over Capital and 73-0 over Helena High.

Glacier sweeps duals with Helena schools

Garrett Bosch, Connor Johnston and Royce Conklin each picked up a pair of wins Friday while Glacier swept Western AA wrestling duals with Helena High and Helena Capital at the Wolf Den.

Whitefish, C-Falls, Libby all score dual wins

Whitefish split a pair of duals and Columbia Falls won an early matchup with Class B Thompson Falls, at a dual meet at Whitefish High School Friday.

Warning issued after men pose as Meals on Wheels drivers

Officials are urging caution following an incident in Bigfork involving two men allegedly posing as drivers for Meals on Wheels.

Suspect sought after Friday morning manhunt

A suspect wanted on a felony probation violation resulted a manhunt in Columbia Falls early Friday morning.

Montana: Former billionaire can't sue state in federal court

Montana's Department of Revenue has filed its response to a lawsuit filed by a former billionaire who claims he suffered hundreds of millions of dollars in damages when the state filed a petition to force him into bankruptcy to collect past-due taxes.

Fugitive wanted in Washington, Idaho arrested in Montana

A fugitive wanted after a series of burglaries and vehicle thefts in Washington and Idaho was arrested while hiding in a camper in western Montana on Friday morning, Mineral County Sheriff Mike Toth said.

Judge may suspend mustang roundup in Nevada; suit pending

A federal judge is considering temporarily suspending the capture of wild horses in Nevada where their advocates say the federal government is "needlessly and recklessly" killing free-roaming mustangs in violation of U.S. laws.

Area educators awarded grants for classroom projects

The Montana Professional Teaching Foundation created the Karen Cox Memorial Grants to help educators purchase classroom supplies and enrichment projects for their students.

Flathead handles Big Sky; unbeaten Hellgate waits

The Flathead Bravettes found a little different detour Thursday on their way to 10-0, and credit Missoula Big Sky for the unique defense approach and confident shooting.

Pirates down Wildcats 58-47

Trent Wilson scored 15 points to lead three Polson players in double figures, and the Pirates used a big second half to down Columbia Falls 58-47 in Northwest A action Thursday.

Flathead boys fall at Big Sky

Caden Bateman’s 19 points led the way Thursday for Missoula Big Sky, which squared its record with a 65-50 Western AA win over Flathead.

Robison, Wildkats handle Polson

Maddie Robison scored 24 points Thursday for the Columbia Falls Wildkats in a 61-24 win over Northwest A foe Polson.

Hellgate Knights down Glacier girls, 55-29

Alex Covill scored 17 points, and Missoula Hellgate pulled way in the second half to down Glacier 55-29 in a Western AA girls basketball game Thursday.

Knights subdue Wolfpack, 47-41

Connor Dick scored 15 points, 10 coming in the pivotal third quarter, and Missoula Hellgate held off Glacier for a 47-41 Western AA boys basketball win Thursday.

Law roundup: Black-clad slugger goes for a walk

Black-clad slugger goes for a walk

Ski touring sees surge in participation

Sales of ski touring gear rose 260% between November 2019 and November 2020.

Woodcarver Henry Larum is Plains' home-grown artist

Mounted on the wall in the Plains High School gymnasium is a large wood carving of a horse. Beside that carving is a plaque dedicated to the memory of Bev Minemyer, a Plains High School student who died from a brain tumor at age 15 in 1976.

'Military-friendly' Flathead High named Purple Star School

Flathead High School was recently awarded a Purple Star designation for its commitment to supporting children of military families.

Idaho wolf population holding steady, wildlife officials say

Idaho's wolf population remained steady at about 1,500 last year, state wildlife managers said Thursday.

Officials ID men who died after shooting in pickup truck

Yellowstone County officials on Thursday released the names of two men who died of gunshot wounds after a fight apparently broke out among three men in a pickup truck.

Library trustees approve contract for new director

The Board of Trustees for ImagineIF Libraries approved on Thursday a contract to hire its new system director, also hearing of another executive resignation and yet another blow to system funding.

Montana GOP minority continues press for election investigation

A group of Republican state lawmakers identifying themselves as an “ad hoc election integrity committee” convened Tuesday at a hotel in downtown Helena to hear presentations and public comment questioning the security of Montana’s elections.

County to hand out free at-home Covid tests

Free Covid-19 tests will be available Tuesday, Feb. 1 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds Expo Building.

Library trustees to review proposed director’s contract

The Board of Trustees for ImagineIF Libraries is expected Thursday to review a proposed contract for its new director that offers up to $10,000 in relocation costs.

Montanans should be confident in PSC expertise

For the past eight year I served on the Senate Energy and Telecommunications Committee, six as Chair. When combined with my eight years in the House, I have spent more time evaluating the Public Service Commission’s (PSC) regulatory duties and commissioners than anyone in the legislature.

Forest plan looks at snowmobile terrain, wilderness

The Flathead National Forest has released a two-pronged proposed action that looks to update where snowmobiles and other over-the-snow motorized vehicles can run in the future, as well as mechanized uses like bicycles and game carts.

Legals for January, 27 2022

ATP promises an exciting 2022 season

Alpine Theatre Project professional theater company has continued to find creative solutions to keep professional performing arts and arts education alive, especially during the changing landscape caused by the pandemic.

0127 TWIF brief

Popular local dance band announces dates

John White Speaker Series returns to History Museum

Now in its 19th year, the popular Northwest Montana Historical Society’s John White Speaker Series returns this winter with a slate of engaging discussions.

Orletta Louise Loveall, 95

Orletta Louise Loveall passed away on Jan. 23, 2022, 12 miles from where she was born in Kalispell.

Letters to the editor Jan. 27

Letters to the editor Jan. 27

WTC brings gripping comedy/thriller to the stage

The Whitefish Theatre Co. presents its third Black Curtain theatre production of the 2021-2022 season with “Mauritius” by Theresa Rebeck at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theater stages “Aladdin Jr.”

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theater presents Disney’s “Aladdin Jr.,” the classic tale about a young boy who finds a genie in a lamp, Jan. 28, 29 and Feb. 4, 5 and 6 at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

Gypsy Theatre Guild announce auditions

The Gypsy Theatre Guild announces auditions for “Cockeyed,” a romantic comedy written by William Missouri Downs and directed by JeAnna Wisher.

Bonnie Jean (Gilroy) Holler, 77

Bonnie Jean (Gilroy) Holler, 77, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Jan. 24, 2022.

Law roundup: Man comes out of woman’s closet

A woman called the Kalispell Police Department when a man allegedly walked into her closet and then said she didn’t need law enforcement assistance because “he was now out.” Officers spoke to the woman, who said she was OK and locked the door.

COLUMN: Navigated her path like a true Legend

There was a time at Flathead High when Tess Brenneman was so busy, she more or less forgot to think about what’s next.

Glacier’s Christy Harkins retiring as teacher, coach

You could say the Glacier Wolfpack found unprecedented success under Christy Harkins and it would be true, even if she wasn’t the only volleyball coach the school has had.

FDA halts use of antibody drugs that don't work vs. omicron

COVID-19 antibody drugs from Regeneron and Eli Lilly should no longer be used because they don't work against the omicron variant that now accounts for nearly all U.S. infections, U.S. health regulators said Monday.

Montana Republicans seek leniency on vaccine mandates

Montana's governor and its two Republican members of Congress are asking the Biden administration to grant exemptions from the COVID-19 vaccine mandate to federally funded health care facilities where losing unvaccinated staff might jeopardize access to medical care.

Suspect confesses to Evergreen homicide, documents allege

The suspect of a deadly shooting in Evergreen last week allegedly confessed to the crime during an interview with detectives, court documents filed Wednesday reveal.

Rosendale asks court to dismiss campaign finance lawsuit

Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale of Montana is asking a federal court to dismiss a lawsuit that alleges his campaign and the National Rifle Association illegally worked together to run ads during his unsuccessful 2018 race against Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester.

Biden taps Jesse Laslovich for Montana U.S. Attorney

The White House on Wednesday announced President Joe Biden will nominate former Democratic state lawmaker Jesse Laslovich to be U.S. Attorney for the state of Montana.

Seattle residents charged with assisting illegal border crossing near Eureka

Two Seattle residents face charges in federal court after Border Patrol agents allegedly caught them helping six Mexican nationals cross the border in the West Kootenai area last week.

School Covid guidance stokes health board criticism

Flathead County Commissioner Pam Holmquist adamantly defended the actions of the county health board over the course of the Covid-19 pandemic after one board member lobbed accusations that the board had failed to uphold an oath to the Constitution and was harming the community.

Glacier Conservancy book club to discuss native trout

The Glacier National Park Conservancy’s bimonthly book club will take a look at Michael Dickerson’s “A Fine-Spotted Trout on Corral Creek: On the Cutthroat Competition of Native Trout in the Northern Rockies” as the group hosts an online Zoom discussion with the author Wednesday evening.

Legals for January, 26 2022

Flathead County 4-H Foods Fair set this weekend

Flathead County 4-H Foods Fair set this weekend

Flathead Speech and Debate team captures first in Butte

The speech and debate season has been filled with close finishes, a matter of points between first and second place for Flathead and Glacier high schools. On Jan. 16, Flathead overtook the competition and won the Richest Hill on Earth Tournament in Butte.

Commission tables septic facilities for further review

The Flathead County Commission hit pause Tuesday on a proposed contract to plan for and design a regional septic waste plant and biosolids composting facility.

Columbia Falls and Whitefish place second, third, at divisionals

It was once again a battle for the top three spots between Frenchtown, Columbia Falls and Whitefish high school speech and debate teams at the Class A Western Divisional tournament over the weekend.

Big Sky boys handle Glacier

The way the Missoula Big Sky boys got it going against Glacier Tuesday, in a convincing 72-56 at the Wolf Den, probably surprises some.

Valkyries trip Wildkats with big second half

Emma Berreth returned to the lineup and scored 13 points, Braeden Gunlock added 12 and the Bigfork Valkyries scored a bounce-back, 38-30 non-conference girls basketball win over Columbia Fall Tuesday.

Hill, Columbia Falls down Bigfork boys

Jace Hill scored 14 points and grabbed seven rebounds, and Columbia Falls held down Class B Bigfork for a 49-28 non-conference boys basketball win Tuesday.

Health department suspends contact tracing, quarantines

The Flathead City-County Health Department will no longer perform Covid-19 contact tracing or recommend quarantine measures in the general population, the department announced Tuesday.

Montana jobless rate hits another record low

Montana’s unemployment rate hit a new record low in December, dropping 0.3 percentage points to end the year at 2.5%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistic

Under the Big Sky lineup announced; capacity to be capped

The Under The Big Sky music festival is set to return to Big Mountain Ranch in Whitefish on July 16 and 17 with limited ticket sales and a lineup that includes an eclectic mix of country, soul and rock performers.

Billings schools votes to keep 2 books in high school libraries

The Billings Public School Board, the largest in the state of Montana, decided on Monday night unanimously to keep two controversial titles found in high school libraries, “Gender Queer” by Maia Kobabe and “Lawn Boy” by Jonathan Evison.

2 men dead after pickup truck with bullet holes crashed

A shooting on the South Side of Billings early Tuesday left two men dead and one man hospitalized with severe trauma to his neck, police said.

Commission to review contract for septic waste, biosolids facilities

Flathead County commissioners will review on Tuesday a proposed design contract to select sites and plan a new regional septic waste plant and biosolids composting facility.

Library launches science education program

Library launches science education program

Whitefish Community Foundation awards $25,000 to Land to Hand

Whitefish Community Foundation awards $25,000 to Land to Hand

MSU program supports Native American nurses

As a nurse, Adessa Durglo’s goal is to treat her patients the way she would want her own family members to be treated. It’s a simple concept, and — as she watched her grandparents near the end of their lives and wanted something more for their care — it’s what led her to nursing in the first place.

Barbara Ann Slethaug, 79

Barbara Ann Slethaug, 79, passed away Jan. 21, 2022.

Law roundup: Woman calls 911 about air conditioner

A Kalispell woman allegedly called 911 wanting someone to come to her residence and remove an air conditioner because it was making her cold.

Dealership donates $10k to Flathead Youth Home

The Flathead Youth Home received a $10,000 donation from Corwin Motors/Corwin Honda this past holiday season.

Billings to decide whether to pull two books from school libraries

The Billings Public School Board will decide whether to pull or keep two books in school libraries throughout the state’s largest public school district at its Monday night meeting, after a subcommittee recommended keeping one book and pulling another.

Betty Lou Erickson, 89

Betty Lou Erickson, beloved daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, passed away on Monday, Jan. 10, 2022.

Legals for January, 25 2022

Brave Brawlers roll over Missoula Sentinel

Braves record 10 pins

Suspect arrested in connection with Evergreen homicide

A Flathead County teenager was arrested Sunday in connection with a deadly shooting in Evergreen last week.

Co-op's public affairs specialist focuses on giving back

Courtney Stone sees her position as public affairs specialist at Flathead Electric Cooperative as a way of becoming more involved in her community.

Letters to the editor Jan. 24

Letters to the editor Jan. 24

Kalispell council to discuss rules for displaying banners

The Kalispell City Council will hold a banner discussion on Monday during a work session.

Logan Health births

Anora Elaine Williams, daughter of Will and Rebecca Williams, of Martin City, was born Nov. 3, 2021, at Logan Health — Whitefish.

Legals for January, 24 2022

Business becomes major sponsor of Whitefish Trail

Business becomes major sponsor of Whitefish Trail

George Oscar Stonehocker, 96

George Oscar Stonehocker

Contested races emerge as candidate filing opens

Whitefish Republican Rep. John Fuller has offered his name for a contested Senate District 4 seat against Kyle Waterman, a Kalispell Democrat who lost a state senate bid last November.

‘No place to go’: hotel sale displaces at least 100 guests

‘No place to go’—hotel sale displaces at least 100 guests

Expanding school choice takes commitment

It’s easy to take homeschooling for granted in 2022. Easy, that is, if you haven’t been watching the legislative action in Montana over the last 40 years.

Helmer ‘Nels’ Sletvold, 67

Helmer ‘Nels’ Sletvold, 67, passed away Jan. 10, 2022.

Indian fare featured at convenience store

Indian fare featured at convenience store

Legals for January, 23 2022

Big Mountain Road project provides needed affordable housing

Early in December I was in bed reading, about to lose my page as I dozed off when my partner came into the room suddenly. “Oh my god… I think there’s someone yelling for help outside.”

In global 5G race, European Union is told to step up pace

In global 5G race, European Union is told to step up pace

DC, 3 states sue Google saying it invades users’ privacy

DC, 3 states sue Google saying it invades users’ privacy

Fed to signal rate hike as it launches risky inflation fight

Fed to signal rate hike as it launches risky inflation fight

Federal voting bill undermines Montanans

If there’s one thing Montanans are about, it’s common sense. We work hard, play by the rules and don’t like when Washington elites impose laws that go against what works for Montana.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Flathead Business Watercooler

Change rides slowly into Turner Mountain

Cloudy skies made for low visitation at Turner Mountain Ski area when 66 skiers rode the lone chairlift on Friday, Jan. 14.

Displaced residents highlight need to be bold on housing

The harsh reality of the Flathead Valley’s housing crisis is set to avalanche onto the streets after about 100 long-term guests at the FairBridge Inn received notice that they will need to be out of the motel by Feb. 12.

Efforts look to restore sharp-tailed grouse to western Montana

The last sharp-tailed grouse in western Montana was seen in 2000.

Kenneth John Connors, 75

Kenneth, or as he preferred to be known as Ken, was born in Charleston, South Carolina, on Dec. 26, 1946. He passed away Jan. 7, 2022.

Letters to the editor Jan. 23

Letters to the editor Jan. 23

Blizzards I’ve been through

The (now previous) break from shoveling snow on a nearly daily basis recently gave me time to think back to some of the wilder winter weather I’d experienced back in Ohio before we moved to Montana.

Taxpayers face overloaded IRS as filing season opens

Taxpayers face overloaded IRS as filing season opens

Whitefish to close central recycling site

The city of Whitefish plans to permanently shut down its central recycling site at the end of the month.

Swan Mountain expands snowmobiling rentals with purchase of J&L

Swan Mountain Snowmobiling, a sister company of Swan Mountain Outfitters, announced last week it had purchased J&L Snowmobile Rentals, a long-time operator of snowmobile tours and rentals in the Columbia Falls and Whitefish area.

Lady Griz, Bobcats win ahead of Monday showdown

MISSOULA — Carmen Gfeller scored 18 points, including 12 free throws, and the Montana Lady Griz held down offensive-minded Northern Arizona for a 66-60 win in Big Sky Conference women’s basketball Saturday.

C-Falls MatCats take fifth at A Duals

Columbia Falls finished fifth at the 19-team Class A Duals that concluded Saturday at Fergus High School, beating Ronan in a shortened dual by an 18-12 score to leave the Chiefs in sixth.

Vikings fifth at Ted Kato Invite

Bigfork had two first place wrestlers and Whitefish had one at the Ted Kato Invitational held Saturday.

Mission girls hand Valkyries first setback

Kason Page scored 19 points, Kooper Page added 17 and the Mission Bulldogs knocked off previously unbeaten Bigfork 52-44 in a District 7-B girls basketball battle Saturday.

Vikings knock Mission from unbeaten ranks

Bryce Hilliard scored 15 points and the Bigfork Vikings edged Mission 57-54 Saturday, handing the Bulldogs their first boys basketball loss.

Flathead wins Montana AA Duals, Glacier fifth

The Flathead Brave Brawlers won yet another boys wrestling tournament Saturday, thumping Billings Senior 43-18 for the championship of the Montana AA Duals.

Law roundup: Texts not really from country star Alan Jackson

Law roundup: Texts not really from country star Alan Jackson

Water rights board faces urgent task list

The Flathead Reservation Water Management Board held its inaugural meeting this past week.

Red bus sells for $1.3M at Florida auction

A red bus sold at auction Jan. 15 for $1.3 million in Kissimmee, Florida.

Join the fight against a common enemy

I spent two relaxing and healthy weeks in Hawaii.

Letters to the editor Jan. 22

Letters to the editor Jan. 22

Legals for January, 22 2022

Local initiative wins Rotary grant with global reach

A consortium of Montana Rotary Clubs has joined forces to win a $39,000 grant from Rotary International to fund ongoing clean water initiatives in Guatemala.

Workforce housing developer buys third property

The developer seeks to strike a balance between luxury accommodations and affordable pricing.

Voisin fourth in Big Air event at X Games

ASPEN — Maggie Voisin earned a fourth-place finish in her first event, Women’s Ski Big Air, at the X Games Aspen on Friday night.

Maidens edge Lady Bulldogs

RONAN — Olivia Heiner poured in 17 points to help the Ronan Maidens edge the Whitefish Lady Bulldogs 38-31 Friday in Northwest A girls basketball.

Moy, Bravettes top Pack convincingly

Looking at the final score from the girls crosstown basketball game Friday — Flathead won 52-23 on its homecourt to stay unbeaten — it’s easy to forget that Glacier looked right as rain nine minutes in.

Wolfpack surges to boys crosstown win

The Glacier Wolfpack showed no jitters on Flathead’s home floor Friday, in a 69-49 crosstown boys basketball win.

Tractor trailer driver dies after rig goes off Interstate 90

A semitractor-trailer went off Interstate 90 just east of Bozeman and into the median before going down an embankment and across a county road that runs under the interstate, killing the driver, the Montana Highway Patrol said Friday.

Tractor trailer driver dies after rig goes off Interstate 90

A semitractor-trailer went off Interstate 90 just east of Bozeman and into the median before going down an embankment and across a county road that runs under the interstate, killing the driver, the Montana Highway Patrol said Friday.

Officials identify Colorado skier who died of hypothermia

Officials in western Montana have released the name of a Colorado skier who died last week while skiing outside the boundary of the Lost Trail Ski Area on the Montana-Idaho border.

Montana seeks to overturn court ruling on abortion access

Montana's attorney general is asking the state Supreme Court to overturn a 1999 opinion that found the state constitution's right to privacy guarantees a woman's access to an abortion — the opinion Planned Parenthood is using to challenge three new abortion laws.

Coral Helland Whisenand, 89

Coral Helland Whisenand, beloved matriarch and wife, passed away peacefully at her home in Palm Desert, California, on Jan. 14, 2022.

Loren Dean Pierson, 53

Loren Pierson, 53, of Kalispell passed away in Minot, North Dakota, Jan. 10, 2022, of complications from Covid-19.

Michael ‘Mike’ Joseph Dalimata, 70

Michael “Mike” Joseph Dalimata passed away peacefully on Jan. 14, 2022, surrounded by his family.

Legals for January, 21 2022

Award-winning composers perform with local, regional choirs

Glacier and Flathead High Schools will host award-winning composers Josh Rist and Jake Runestad Jan. 23 and 24.

F. Roy Bauer, 91

F. Roy Bauer, 91 years of age, peacefully passed away Jan. 16, 2022, at his home in Hurricane, Utah, with his loving wife Flossie Bauer by his side, whom he was married to for 17 years.

Law roundup: White and brown dog goes for its own walk

A white and brown long-haired dog had been walking around a neighborhood for about four hours, a caller told the Kalispell Police Department.

Bigfork Vikings hold off Lions, 55-54

Isak Epperly led a balanced Bigfork attack with 14 points, and the Vikings made just enough free throws late to hold off Eureka 55-54 in a District 7-B boys basketball game Thursday.

Gedlaman scores 21, Wildkats handle Browning

Grace Gedlaman’s double-double lifted the Columbia Falls Wildkats to a 59-36 victory over the Browning Lady Indians in Northwest A girls basketball Thursday night.

Crosstown hoop battles on tap at Flathead tonight

The first of two crosstown basketball doubleheaders is tonight at Flathead High School, where the girls battle at 6 p.m. and the boys square off after.

Yellowstone rampage brings prison time for California man

A judge has sentenced a California man to nine months in prison for a drunken rampage in Yellowstone National Park in which he did thousands of dollars in damage to a hotel and struggled with rangers trying to subdue him.

Bullock an initial board member for public lands foundation

Former Montana Gov. Steve Bullock and former Bureau of Land Management Director Neil Kornze are two of the first four board members of a new nonprofit foundation created to help leverage public and private funds to conserve, protect and restore land managed by the Bureau of Land Management.

Omicron resistance prompts Logan Health to halt antibody program

Logan Health’s monoclonal antibody program that has successfully treated thousands of Covid-19 patients ended last week after emerging guidelines indicate that available treatments are not effective against the highly contagious omicron variant.

Logan Health to comply with Covid vaccine mandate

Logan Health is once again requiring its entire staff to get the Covid-19 vaccination in order to comply with a federal rule that was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court last week.

High court closes oral arguments on water-bottler case

Proceedings show shaky start for 'MAWC' attorney

The Montana Supreme Court opened oral arguments Wednesday on an appeal challenging an exemption for Montana Artesian to operate within a voter-approved expansion of the Egan Slough Zoning District near Creston.

For the love of the game

They’re professional athletes playing by NFL rules in NFL stadiums, but they pay to play.

Wings Radiothon: Annual fundraiser benefits nonprofit cancer support

The 26th annual Wings radiothon fundraiser is Thursday, Jan. 20 and Friday, Jan. 21.

Law Roundup: Cart attack sends man to emergency room

A man was hit by a shopping cart in the back of his knees at a store, and the altercation landed him in the emergency room. His friend told the Kalispell Police Department he suspected the cart attack was intentional, because the person pushing the cart “laughed and walked away.”

Loren Dean Pierson, 53

Loren Pierson, 53, of Kalispell passed away in Minot, North Dakota, Jan. 10, 2022, of complications from Covid-19.

High Plains Book Award nominations now open

Nominations for the 16th annual High Plains Book Awards opened Jan. 14 and will be accepted through March 12.

Co-op offers scholarships for local students

Co-op offers scholarships for local students

0120 TWIF brief

Dance to classic country

Safety grants assist projects in Creston, Whitefish

Safety grants assist projects in Creston, Whitefish

Letters to the editor Jan. 20

Letters to the editor Jan. 20

Orville V. ‘Orvie’ Marsh, 77

Life began for Orville V. Marsh, aka Orvie, June 5, 1944, in Chester, Montana.

History program highlights wealth in the Wild West

Bill Farley will give a free history presentation titled “How to Make a Million in the Wild West” Thursday, Jan 27, at the Northwest Montana History Museum.

Trustees undermining library’s success

It is with great concern and a deepening sadness that I’ve been following the events of the ImagineIF Libraries as directed by the three-member majority of the five-member library board.

A milepost on the road to justice

It is 10 a.m. on Jan. 21, 1991, when Montana State Sen. Eleanor Vaughn, D-Libby, calls the joint meeting of House and Senate State Administration Committees to order, and Sen. Harry Fritz rises to present, for the third consecutive legislative session, 1987, 1989, and now, 1991, a bill to create a paid state holiday honoring the legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Kalispell council mulls affordable housing issues

The issue of affordable housing dominated the conversation at the Kalispell City Council meeting Tuesday evening, but no solutions emerged during the discussion.

New film documents Montana’s freestyle skiing legacy

A new feature-length documentary film from Montana PBS about Montana’s freestyle skiing legacy will premiere on Montana PBS at 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 30.

Legals for January, 20 2022

Flathead welcomes high-scoring Joston Cripe back to court

What was supposed to happen was Joston Cripe was going to have a solid spring season of AAU basketball, followed by an excellent summer of playing hoops with his Flathead teammates, all building up to a satisfying senior season.

Whitefish bumps decision on Big Mountain Road housing project

Following a continued deluge of public comment on a large mixed-use development proposed at the southern end of Big Mountain Road, Whitefish City Council on Tuesday chose to push back until next month a decision on the project.

Authorities investigating Big Arm shooting deaths

Lake County deputies responded to a residence in the Big Arm area early Wednesday morning following a report of a possible homicide/suicide, according to a press release from the Sheriff’s Office.

New pro baseball team reveals name and mascot

The Flathead Valley’s new professional baseball team on Wednesday revealed its brand as the Glacier Range Riders, along with a mountain goat mascot.

Man arrested in Whitefish following overnight search

A wanted man was apprehended Wednesday morning after evading law enforcement overnight following a short pursuit through Whitefish.

Michael Edward Walter III, 14

Michael Edward Walter III was born in Kalispell on March 18, 2007, and passed away where he resided in New Britain, Connecticut, on Jan. 16, 2022.

Legals for January, 19 2022

James Fitzgerald, 84

James Fitzgerald, 84, of Columbia Falls, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, at Logan Health in Kalispell.

Water rights board to hold inaugural meeting in Ronan

The regulatory body for water rights on the Flathead Reservation is set to meet for the first time on Thursday in Ronan.

Tom Sawyer, 46

Tom Sawyer passed away suddenly on Jan. 7, 2022.

Law roundup: Persistent puppy goes on long run

Law roundup: Persistent puppy goes on long run

Ilona Maria Matson, 79

On Dec. 28, 2021, Ilona “Sam” Matson passed away peacefully in her sleep.

Flathead girls have strong showing at Hellgate Invite

The Flathead Bravettes had another dominant showing over the weekend, getting six individual champions and 20 placers at the Missoula Hellgate Invitational.

Helena-area men charged after man's body found in snow

Two Helena-area men were charged Tuesday with deliberate homicide in the death of a man whose frozen body was discovered along Rimini Road southeast of Helena last week.

Man accused of sexually abusing children enters not guilty plea

A Columbia Falls man accused of raping numerous children at his home and recording the assaults on video entered a not guilty plea last week.

1 man killed in Kalispell shooting

One man is dead following a shooting Monday night in Kalispell.

U.S. plans $50B wildfire fight where forests meet suburbia

The Biden administration plans to significantly expand efforts to stave off catastrophic wildfires that have torched areas of the U.S. West by more aggressively thinning forests around areas called "hotspots" where nature and neighborhoods collide.

Yellowstone bison species decision questioned by judge

A federal judge has ordered the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to revisit part of its decision not to protect Yellowstone National Park's bison as an endangered species.

Montana magician nixes plans for Las Vegas tiger sanctuary

A Montana man has withdrawn a proposal to open a tiger sanctuary in Las Vegas for his magic show.

State Supreme Court hears arguments in water-bottling plant case

The Montana Supreme Court on Wednesday will hear oral arguments in a lawsuit over whether a Creston water-bottling plant would be allowed to operate under a grandfathered capacity under zoning regulations.

County holds final mass vaccine clinic Feb. 1

Flathead City-County Health Department will hold its final large-scale Covid-19 vaccine clinic Feb. 1 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

Legals for January, 18 2022

Teen swims in the St. Regis River all year long

On a hot summer day, you’d count yourself pretty lucky to drive up to the swimming spot that St. Regis locals refer to as “Scribner’s” or the Joe, and find no other rigs there.

Report: Job openings will remain high until labor force grows

A myriad of reasons are accounting for labor shortage in Montana, according to a recently released report by Department of Labor and Industry economist Christopher Bradley.

Montana hospital recruits international nurses in tight workforce

Before Mary Venus was offered a nursing job at a hospital here, she’d never heard of Billings or visited the United States. A native of the Philippines, she researched her prospective move via the internet, set aside her angst about the cold Montana winters and took the job, sight unseen.

MHSA adds basketball shot clock, baseball

High School sports

Eureka downs Thompson Falls

Jadyn Pluid scores 23 points for Lions

Jury finds Kalispell man guilty of killing wife

After hearing two weeks of evidence and testimony, a jury on Friday evening found a Kalispell man guilty of killing his wife in 2020.

Montana Tech administrator hired to lead hospital foundation

An administrator and former athletic director at Montana Tech in Butte is joining Logan Health as president of the hospital’s foundation.

Downtown hotel proposal tops Kalispell agenda

Kalispell City Council on Tuesday will consider several agreements related to the development of a proposed downtown hotel.

Law roundup: Turkey trots around Kalispell

A domestic turkey with damaged feathers was seen wandering around Kalispell.

Legals for January, 17 2022

On with the show — FVCC taps Seattle pro for the new College Center’s director

On with the show — FVCC taps Seattle pro for the new College Center’s director

Letters to the editor Jan. 17

Letters to the editor Jan. 17

Council considers Big Mountain Road development

Whitefish City Council on Tuesday will consider a large-scale mixed-used development straddling Big Mountain Road.

Brothers shot and killed in Three Forks, suspect charged

Gallatin County officials continue to investigate after two brothers were shot to death in the small town of Three Forks, northwest of Bozeman, over the weekend.

Billings police investigating shooting death of 15-year-old

Police in Billings are investigating the shooting death of a 15-year-old boy early Sunday, officials said.

'Tunnel rats' and an engineering marvel

Sitting beneath the Salish Mountains, the Flathead Railroad Tunnel just southwest of Trego stands as an engineering marvel.

Linda Russell, 72

Linda Russell passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 5, 2022, at her home near Bigfork, with her love of Jesus Christ in her heart.

MSU Extension offers remote work course

MSU Extension offers remote work course

Trego railroad tunnel major construction feat

At 11:10 a.m. on the morning of June 21, 1968 one final blast connected to the two holes being drilled beneath the Salish Mountains.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Flathead Business Watercooler

What the debate about grizzly bears teaches us about politics

This week, while watching an online panel about grizzly bears, I noticed something that encapsulates a larger issue in this country.

Management plan for lake islands seeks to balance recreation and conservation

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks unveiled their new management plan for the islands in Flathead Lake this week.

Commission should be ‘firm but fair’

Growing up in Dillon, my Dad would offer up one liners as life lessons.

Instead of criticizing, lend a hand

The chorus of groans was audible as the omicron wave crashed into the Flathead Valley last week, dragging in its wake wide-reaching impacts on our local schools, businesses and health-care system. It’s like the movie “Groundhog Day” in real life — here we go again.

Letters to the editor Jan. 16

Letters to the editor Jan. 16

Mr. Smith and the filibuster

One of the great motion pictures of all time was the 1939 Academy Award blockbuster directed by the legendary Frank Capra called “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington.”

Thomas Siderius, 82

Thomas Siderius, 82, lifelong Flathead Valley resident, passed away at his home on Jan. 7, 2022.

Harry James Hyatt, 84

Harry James Hyatt passed away on Jan. 5, 2022, on his way to see his beloved MSU Bobcats play in the National Championship.

Andrea Jean (Schlabs) Connor, 82

Andrea Jean (Schlabs) Connor from Marysville, Washington, born Sept. 30, 1939, in Plentywood, Montana, passed Nov. 30, 2021, in Everett, Washington.

Calaways to reign as Whitefish carnival king and queen

Whitefish residents Geoffrey and Lisa Calaway will reign as the Whitefish Winter Carnival King Ullr LXIII and Queen of Snow.

Amazon’s UK site backs away from plan to stop taking Visa

Amazon’s UK site backs away from plan to stop taking Visa

Bank celebrates grand opening with scholarship donation

Bank celebrates grand opening with scholarship donation

Small café opens in Gateway Community Center

Small café opens in Gateway Community Center

Richard ‘Rick’ Riley, 95

Richard Darrell Riley, 95, passed away on Jan. 4, 2022, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Legals for January, 16 2022

Chan, Zuckerberg fighting Native American vaccine hesitancy

Chan, Zuckerberg fighting Native American vaccine hesitancy

Group: Tax rich to fund vaccines for poor hit by pandemic

Group: Tax rich to fund vaccines for poor hit by pandemic

Phyllis Jean (Gray) Bjorsness, 92

Phyllis Jean (Gray) Bjorsness, 92, of Whitefish, treasured wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, passed away Dec. 14, 2021.

China’s economy grows 8.1% in 2021, slows in second half

China’s economy grows 8.1% in 2021, slows in second half

Kenneth John Connors, 75

Kenneth, or as he preferred to be known as Ken, was born in Charleston, South Carolina, on Dec. 26, 1946.

Glacier swims to team titles at Kalispell meet

Glacier’s girls relays and a trio of boys champions led the Wolfpack to a sweep of the Kalispell High School swim meet held Saturday at The Summit.

Brave Brawlers win Rocky Mountain Classic

Flathead walked away with another tournament title Saturday after two days of competition at the Jug Beck Rocky Mountain Classic, held at Missoula Sentinel High School.

Bravettes hold off Capital, now 8-0

Kennedy Moore and Akilah Kubi combined for 24 points, a passel of rebounds and another win for the Flathead Bravettes, who knocked off defending State AA champion Helena Capital 46-44 Saturday at the Flathead gym.

Unbeaten Bruins best Braves 65-42

A cold snap bridging from the first half to the second doomed Flathead Saturday, with unbeaten Helena Capital building a big lead on the way to a 65-42 Western AA boys basketball win.

Helena pulls away after first to top Wolfpack

The Glacier boys got off to a good start Saturday, before falling off the pace in the second and third quarters of a 60-53 loss at Helena in Western AA boys basketball.

C-Falls girls win Kat-Dog basketball battle

Maddie Robison led three Columbia Falls players in double figures with 15 points, and the Wildkats made short work of Whitefish in Northwest A girls basketball Saturday.

Hill scores 27, Wildcats outlast Dawgs

Jace Hill scored 27 points and Columbia Falls weathered a late charge by Whitefish to beat the Bulldogs 50-49 in a Northwest A boys basketball game Saturday.

Bengals make early lead hold up on Glacier girls

The Glacier Wolfpack have a plan to combat its usual size disadvantage, and on Saturday the hosts again pushed the issue full-court against the visiting Helena High Bengals.

Brave Brawlers lead at Rocky Mountain Classic

Eleven Flathead wrestlers advanced to the semifinals at the Jug Beck Rocky Mountain Classic Wrestling tournament Friday at Sentinel High School.

25-year-old Colorado skier found dead near Lost Trail resort

A 25-year-old Colorado skier who went missing Thursday from the Lost Trail Ski Area on the Montana-Idaho border has been found dead.

Pedestrian killed on U.S. 93 at St. Ignatius

A Polson woman was killed Friday after being hit by a vehicle on U.S. 93 in Lake County.

Judges skeptical of ‘wait until 2023’ argument in PSC case

A panel of federal judges assembled to hear a lawsuit challenging the districts used to elect Montana’s utility regulation board indicated in a ruling Thursday that they’re hesitant to wait until 2023 to give the Montana Legislature a chance to update the districts for population change at its next regular session.

Whitefish hospital foundation receives $1 million gift

The Logan Health – Whitefish Foundation has received the largest gift ever in the foundation’s history from the estate of two longtime hospital and community supporters.

Glacier boys fall to unbeaten Capital

Hayden Opitz scored 24 points, Brayden Koch added 21 and Helena Capital stayed unbeaten with a 71-49 win over Glacier in a Western AA boys basketball game Friday.

Flathead boys notch first win behind Cripe

Joston Cripe poured in 27 points and the Flathead Braves notched their first win of the season Friday, beating the Helena Bengals 55-48 in Western AA boys basketball.

Pack girls go cold, fall to Bruins

Jada Clarkson and Megan Swanson scored 12 points each for Helena Capital, which beat Glacier 45-34 in a Western AA girls basketball game Friday at the Wolfpack Gym.

Berreth, Vals clip Falcons to stay unbeaten

Emma Berreth scored 19 points and the Bigfork Valkyries stayed unbeaten with a hard-fought 76-57 win over Florence Friday, in non-conference girls basketball action.

Loggers surge past Whitefish boys

Caden Williams scored 17 points, Tyler Andersen added 15 and the Libby Loggers surged ahead in the second quarter to beat Whitefish 54-38 in Northwest A boys basketball action.

Trustees making irresponsible decisions

I am emailing you to express my concern about our currently appointed library trustees, specifically Doug, Heidi and David. These trustees are making irresponsible decisions that are harming the integrity of our county public library system.

Letters to the editor Jan. 15

Letters to the editor Jan. 15

Harry James Hyatt, 84

Harry James Hyatt passed away on Jan. 5, 2022, on his way to see his beloved MSU Bobcats play in the National Championship.

Popular Glacier Park podcast returns for second season

Telling the lesser known stories of Glacier National Park, the second season of popular Headwaters Podcast will be available to the public Sunday, according its hosts.

Miracle of America Museum hosts Winter Activities Day

Miracle of America Museum in Polson is hosting its first Winter Activities Day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 15.

Law roundup: Deer in headlights didn’t stop driver

Deer in headlights didn’t stop driver

Diane Lyn (Harkness) Conner, 79

Diane Lyn (Harkness) Conner, 79, was born on Aug. 22, 1942, in Tacoma, Washington, to Jim and Dorothy Harkness, the eldest of three children.

Bravettes stay calm, improve to 7-0

There are many times to call a calming time out in high school basketball, but seconds into the third quarter might be a little early.

State superintendent pitches revisions to teacher licensing

On Thursday, the Montana Board of Public Education conducted its first review of state Superintendent Elsie Arntzen’s proposed changes to regulations governing teacher licensing.

Groups challenge initiative to limit property tax changes

Public employees and a farming organization are among those who filed a complaint arguing the attorney general and the secretary of state did not follow a new law in approving signature-gathering for a proposed constitutional initiative that would limit changes in residential property taxes.

Whitefish Community Foundation holds nonprofit meeting

Whitefish Community Foundation will hold an informational meeting on Thursday, Jan. 27 for nonprofit organizations interested in applying to participate in the 2022 Great Fish Community Challenge.

OhShinnah Fast Wolf, 88

OhShinnah Fast Wolf passed away on Jan. 11, 2022.

Two big housing proposals clear first hurdles

Two large housing proposals moved through the Kalispell Planning Board on Tuesday evening.

Laura S. Williams, 62

Laura S. Williams, 62, of Kalispell, went to be with our Lord on Jan. 1, 2022, surrounded by her family.

Ruth Dalimata, 92

Ruth Dalimata, 92, of Nyack, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, at the home she shared with John and her nine children, surrounded by her loving family.

Raenell Ann Wiherski

Raenell Ann Wiherski passed away at home Dec. 14, 2021, in Libby at the age of 65.

Law Roundup: Customer writes off all businesses

Law roundup

Charlotte Hillstead, 91

The family of Charlotte Hillstead — Feb. 28. 1930, to Jan. 9, 2022 — desire to share the event of her peaceful passing.

Old Glory: Moiese family claims Montana's tallest flagpole

Across from the entrance to the Bison Range on Highway 212 is the south entrance to the Moiese Valley known for cattle and dairy operations, wheat, alfalfa and corn fields — and now the tallest flagpole in Montana.

Legals for January, 14 2022

Stillman Allen Foster Jr., 82

Stillman Allen Foster Jr., Ph.D., passed away Jan. 11, 2022.

Bigfork boys hold down T-Falls

Nick Walker scored 12 points to lead a balanced Bigfork attack Thursday, and the Vikings held down Thompson Falls 56-30 in District 7-B boys basketball action.

Robison, Gedlaman lead Kats to victory

Maddie Robison scored 20 points, Grace Gedlaman added 16 and Columbia Falls made a first-half lead hold up for a 52-45 win over Ronan in Northwest A girls basketball Thursday.

Braves, Bravettes win crosstown duals

The top-ranked Flathead Braves and highly touted Bravettes lived up to their roles as favorites Thursday at the crosstown wrestling dual held at Glacier High, yet the Pack had its moments.

Library trustees keep one book while eying removal of second

The ImagineIF Libraries trustees on Thursday decided to retain one book being challenged as part of its collection, but voted to “indefinitely postpone” a decision on a second book until the library can change its policies in a way that would likely allow for removal of the book.

Supreme Court halts vaccine rule for businesses

The Supreme Court has stopped the Biden administration from enforcing a requirement that employees at large businesses be vaccinated against COVID-19 or undergo weekly testing and wear a mask on the job.

Kila cancels in-person classes due to Covid

Kila School District canceled in-person classes among all grade levels for Thursday and Friday due mounting Covid-19 cases.

Montana orders 650,000 rapid COVID-19 tests for residents

The state of Montana has ordered 650,000 rapid COVID-19 tests to be distributed to residents through county health departments, Gov. Greg Gianforte announced Thursday.

Biden to double free COVID tests, add N95s, to fight omicron

President Joe Biden announced Thursday that the government will double to 1 billion the rapid, at-home COVID-19 tests to be distributed free to Americans, along with the most protective N95 masks, as he highlighted his efforts to "surge" resources to help the country weather the spike in coronavirus cases.

High Plains Book Award nominations open Jan. 14

Nominations for the 16th annual High Plains Book Awards will open Jan. 14 and will be accepted through March 12.

ATP launches 2022 season

Alpine Theatre Project opens it 2022 season with its production of “Rumours — The Music of Fleetwood Mac” Jan. 21, 22 and 23 at The Mountain Center, 6475 U.S. 93 S., Whitefish.

International duo bring innovative music to the O’Shaughnessy

The Whitefish Theatre Company presents a one-night only performance by Bridge & Wolak, an innovative music duo who will challenge everything you know about classical music.

CSKT documentary chronicles Tribes’ Covid struggles

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Education Department has released a short documentary titled “Calling Our Warriors.”

Julia A. Soule, 76

Julia A. Soule, 76, passed away the afternoon of Jan. 4, 2022.

Mountain Gateway a catastrophic wildfire risk

On Tuesday, the Whitefish mayor and City Council will be asked to approve or deny the Mountain Gateway planned unit development, consisting of 318 housing units and a commercial “island” at the junction of the Big Mountain Road and East Lakeshore Drive.

Reject Gianforte’s political grizzly bear petition

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte has submitted a petition to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) to remove Endangered Species Act protections from grizzly bears in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE), the area within and near Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness. This petition should be rejected by USFWS. Here’s why.

Letters to the editor Jan. 13

Letters to the editor Jan. 13

FVCC students achieve 100% pass rate on national exam

A cohort of nine individuals who studied to become physical therapist assistants at Flathead Valley Community College achieved a 100% pass rate on their national licensing exams.

WTC holds auditions for fast-paced thriller

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for its third Black Curtain Theatre production of the 2021-2022 season.

Legals for January, 13 2022

Subdivision approved near Grouse Mountain park

A 56-unit residential subdivision planned off Fairway Drive near the Grouse Mountain soccer fields was recently approved by Whitefish City Council.

State to address erosion at Somers beach

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is looking to curb erosion on the north shore of Flathead Lake at a new public park in Somers.

The Lil Smokies return to The Wilma

The Lil Smokies had to postpone their 2021 New Year’s Eve show at The Wilma in Missoula, but the beloved bluegrass band has rescheduled the show at The Wilma for Saturday, March 12, and they’re going all out.

Applications accepted for 2022 Artist Wilderness Connection

Professional working artists from various disciplines, media and styles are invited to apply to the 2022 Artist Wilderness Connection (AWC), a unique collaborative artist-in-residence program in Montana managed by Hockaday Museum of Art in partnership with the Flathead National Forest, Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation, and Swan Valley Connections.

Law roundup: Goose on the loose threatens traffic

A Canada goose was spotted flying above traffic, and someone below the goose was worried it would cause an accident, they told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Crosstown wrestling on deck Thursday in Glacier’s gym

Glacier wrestling coach Ross Dankers would like to have a better lineup ready for the crosstown rivals, but with open dates short and four weeks left in the season, tonight will have to do.

Youso, one of 3 co-captains, having excellent senior season for Brawlers

To hear him and his coach tell it, wrestling was not a duck-to-water sport for Flathead 205-pounder Chase Youso.

Flathead leads state in new business starts

Flathead County led the state in the number of new businesses registered in the state in 2021.

Omicron wave threatens Montana hospital capacity

A coalition of Montana medical groups warned on Tuesday that hospitals are once again at risk of being extended beyond their caregiving capacity as the more transmissible omicron variant starts to spread across the state.

Polson man charged after truck crashes into Idaho home

A Montana man has been charged with felony driving under the influence after prosecutors say he crashed into an eastern Idaho home, injuring a woman who was inside.

Black ice, crashes block eastbound Interstate 90 in Montana

Freezing rain caused treacherous driving conditions in western Montana on Wednesday morning, causing crashes that blocked lanes on Interstate 90 both east and west of Missoula and leading Missoula Public Schools to cancel classes because buses were unable to run safely.

Montana psych hospital failed to properly investigate death

Employees at Montana's state psychiatric hospital failed to properly investigate the death of a patient who was reportedly told to go back to her room "and stop being dramatic," after she told staff she was having trouble catching her breath, a federal report said.

New record set for births at Whitefish hospital

A new record for the number of babies delivered at Logan Health Whitefish was set in 2021.

Glacier speech and debate wins Yeti Invitational

The Glacier High School Speech and Debate team won first-place at The Yeti tournament, which it also hosted, this weekend.

Seats up for election on FEC board

Three seats on Flathead Electric Co-op’s Board of Trustees are up for election this year.

Joseph E. Green, 87

On March 24,1934, Joseph E. Green entered our world in Clayton, New Mexico, and his 87-year journey began.

Charles 'Chuck' Daniel Evans, 74

Charles “Chuck” Daniel Evans of Naples, Florida, and Germantown, Wisconsin, and formerly of Bigfork, passed from this world and into heaven peacefully on Jan. 5, 2022,

County employees to get 4% pay increase

Flathead County employees will get a 4% raise after the county commissioners voted Tuesday to approve the pay increase.

Deana Kay Taylor, 63

Deana Kay Taylor, 63, passed into the arms of her Savior on Nov. 13, 2021, at Logan Health in Whitefish from Covid-19 and pneumonia.

Legals for January, 12 2022

City looks to do away with residency requirements for first responders

City looks to do away with residency requirements for first responders

Joan Klingsheim, 89

Joan Klingsheim, 89, of Kalispell, passed away Jan. 8, 2022.

Jack Reed Sheneman, 93

Dr. Jack R. Sheneman, 93, passed away Dec. 29, 2021, with his wife by his side.

Lady Lions top Loggers at home

The Eureka Lady Lions dominated the Libby Loggers 51-14 Tuesday in the Battle of the Kootenai, an intraconference basketball game.

2021 a record year for Flathead Lake real estate

2021 was a record-setting year for Flathead Lake real estate.

Law roundup: These boots were made for walkin’ to jail

A business allegedly let a woman use the bathroom and she took that as her cue to put on a show in the parking lot where the woman, who was clad in a black and white puffy jacket, black leggings and boots, allegedly danced and yelled at passing traffic that drove around her impromptu performance.

Thomas James 'Tom' Hewitt, 74

Thomas James “Tom” Hewitt, 74, passed away Jan. 7, 2022, at his home in Polson.

Montana sports bettors wagered $46M in 2021

After a tumultuous start due in part to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the emergent Montana sports betting market picked up in 2021, with Montana bettors wagering $46 million through Dec. 27.

Sanderson to play for U.S.

Jake Sanderson felt bad that he would be missing a handful of games at North Dakota to play at the Olympics.

BNSF Railway taking over Montana Rail Link route

BNSF Railway has announced plans to resume operation of its mainline rail corridor through southern Montana, ending a lease with Montana Rail Link.

Blackfeet repeal decision to move to Phase 2 Covid regs

The Blackfeet Reservation entered Phase 2 Covid restrictions for almost 24 hours before repealing the decision Tuesday.

Smith Valley School closes due to Covid-caused staff shortage

Smith Valley School canceled classes Tuesday because of a shortage of staff as a result of Covid-19.

Whitefish’s Maggie Voisin qualifies for third Olympics

Whitefish native Maggie Voisin will be heading to her third Olympics after clinching her spot at the U.S. Grand Prix at Mammoth Mountain Resort on Sunday.

Music teachers association hosts meeting, program

The Kalispell Area Music Teachers Association (KAMTA) will host its monthly business meeting and program Friday, Jan. 14.

Flathead finishes first at All-State Extravaganza virtual tourney

Flathead High School captured first place at the Montana All-State Extravaganza virtual tournament this weekend.

Bigfork author chronicles history of Montana disasters

Bigfork area author Butch Larcombe’s new book “Montana Disasters: True Stories of Treasure State Tragedies and Triumphs” is a fascinating dive into some of the state’s more solemn history.

Overland assumes role of Whitefish Municipal Court judge

Whitefish Municipal Court Judge Caitlin Overland knew from a young age that she wanted to be an attorney.

Donald Allen Dorlarque, 69

Donald Allen Dorlarque, 69, of Columbia Falls, passed away Friday, Jan. 7, 2022.

Legals for January, 11 2022

Management plan selected for Flathead Lake islands

A management plan for public recreation on four popular Flathead Lake islands is moving forward.

Holmquist to serve as chair of county commission

Flathead County Commissioner Pam Holmquist has been voted chairperson of the Flathead County Commission.

Coram house salvageable after fire

A Coram house sustained considerable damage, but is not a total loss, after a fire broke out Sunday night, according to Coram-West Glacier Fire Department Fire Chief Walter Tabb.

Pedestrian killed on U.S. 2 in Martin City

A Butte woman was killed Sunday when she was struck by a vehicle while walking in the roadway near Martin City.

Legals for January, 10 2022

Letters to the editor Jan. 10

Letters to the editor Jan. 10

Law roundup: Hotel has reservations about drunk man

A drunk man, pushing a cart, allegedly refused to leave a hotel, insisting he had a reservation.

Industrial arts teacher prepares next generation for workforce

The sound of hammers hitting nails, intensifying whir of saws chewing through lumber, tape measures snapping back into coils and booted feet thudding against subflooring is probably white noise by now to Brock Anderson who is in his 23rd year teaching industrial arts.

Wilson Asbury Higgs

Dr. Wilson Asbury Higgs passed away on Jan. 9, 2022.

City considers repealing residency requirements for first responders

On Monday, the newest members of the Kalispell City Council will hold their first work session.

Two big housing projects up for consideration

The need for housing has become one of the most critical challenges facing the Flathead Valley, and builders are racing to meet the demand.

Let’s celebrate our libraries

In the Flathead Valley, we have a standout public library system and staff which we should celebrate and hold dear. The good news is many of us do.

Winter Carnival names Prime, Duchess

The Whitefish Winter Carnival officially got underway Saturday with the crowning of the first round of royalty, the Duchess of Lake and Prime Minister, at the Merry Maker event.

Medicare told to reassess premium hike for Alzheimer’s drug

Medicare told to reassess premium hike for Alzheimer’s drug

Law roundup: Running man wants to take clothing off

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a man running through a complex and taking off most of his clothes in Kalispell.

Alternatives to bigger jails aren’t a partisan issue

If you know someone is a Republican or Democrat, then you might assume you know exactly where they stand on whether local jails need to be expanded.

Tax season begins two weeks early due to virus, IRS funding

Tax season begins two weeks early due to virus, IRS funding

Kathleen Mary (Welder) Huff, 81

Kathleen Mary (Welder) Huff, age 81, of Kalispell, passed away after her battle with breast cancer Jan. 1, 2022, at Logan Health Medical Center.

Karen Fae Martin, 78

Karen Fae Martin was born in Butte on Oct. 30, 1943, to Harold and Christina (Klundt) Davidson. She passed away on Jan. 2, 2022 following a brief battle with cancer.

Study shows nursing labor market tightened during pandemic

A new study from a Montana State University researcher and his colleagues provides evidence that the labor market tightened for the nursing workforce throughout the first 15 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, a period marked by falling employment and rising wages across the industry.

Letters to the editor Jan. 9

Letters to the editor Jan. 9

Brother duo takes family pride in tattoo parlor

Anyone with a tattoo knows the temporary suffering is worth the long-term satisfaction. That’s how Ryan Swindler feels about Swindler Ink, the tattoo shop he runs with his younger brother Mike.

Stockman Bank holds Kalispell grand opening

Stockman Bank is officially open at 1 South Main Street in Kalispell.

Hurricane Ida, Europe floods made 2021 costly for disasters

Hurricane Ida, Europe floods made 2021 costly for disasters

Innovative tax credit program could use innovation

A few local school districts managed to get a sliver of the $1 million in funding made available in a state program offering tax credits to people who donate to public schools — but not without some frantic mouse clicking and little luck.

Flathead Business Watercooler

The Montana Department of Commerce is providing $500,000 in Recovery Destination Event Grants for established and new destination events.

Former racetrack eyed for housing project

The owners of the former Raceway Park have returned with a proposal that could turn the property into housing.

Nancy Lee Meyer, 77

Nancy Lee Meyer, 77, departed her earthly home to unite with her heavenly Father, Dec. 30, 2021.

Charles Eugene Plummer, 95

After a weekend surrounded by loved ones, on Monday, Dec. 20, 2021, handheld by his daughter Kim, and sleeping nearby his wife, Charles Eugene Plummer passed peacefully into eternity.

Helen McClellan, 94

Helen McClellan, 94, of Polson, left this earth on Jan. 2, 2022, after a brief illness at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

The Libby Chamber of Commerce will receive grant funding from the Montana Department of Commerce’s Tourism Grant Program. Libby is one of 21 communities that will receive funding through the program.

Bigfork Nordic Center fills winter recreation need

North Shore Nordic Club President Dave Hadden said they are looking for fresh new faces to be on their board and to continue their mission of providing these recreational opportunities to the community.

Legals for January, 9 2022

Keep our utilities accountable to the people

The Public Service Commission and Northwestern Energy (NWE), have made news, again, and yet again, for something done to — and not for — Montana.

Incoming CEO at Southwest Air faces numerous challenges

Incoming CEO at Southwest Air faces numerous challenges

Flathead grapplers sweep team titles in Boise

Flathead’s girls and boys wrestling teams swept the team titles Saturday at the Rollie Lane Invitational.

Glacier girls win Western Montana Invite

The Glacier girls starred at the Western Montana Ronan Invitational and came away with the team title Saturday, helped along by multiple individual winners.

Olsen, Sullivan, Salonen lift Pack boys over Butte

Ty Olsen scored 17 points, Connor Sullivan hit two 3-pointers in a torrid Glacier start and the Wolfpack downed Butte 64-50 in Western AA boys basketball Saturday.

Butte girls hold off Sorensen, Glacier

Kodie Hoagland scored 15 points and Butte withstood a fourth-quarter rally by Glacier to beat the Wolfpack 46-42 in Western AA girls basketball.

Sentinel boys overcome 8 Flathead 3-pointers in win

A third-quarter Missoula Sentinel burst, led by Riley Allen’s pair of 3-pointers, put the Spartans up and they held on to beat Flathead 68-56 in Western AA boys basketball Saturday.

Moy’s early burst helps Bravettes improve to 6-0

Maddy Moy scored a game-high 14 points, seven in the first quarter, and Flathead built an early lead and held off Missoula Sentinel for another girls basketball win Saturday.

Group celebrates 40 years of outdoors empowerment, skiing

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — Karla Cartwright and her son, Weston, didn't know what to expect the first time they attended Eagle Mount's Big Sky Kids Camp, designed for children diagnosed with cancer and their families, in 1993.

PHOTOS: Scenes from the 50th Sunriser Lions Family Ice Fishing Derby

Scenes from the 50th Sunriser Lions Family Ice Fishing Derby at Smith Lake in Kila on Saturday, Jan. 8.

Low visibility leads to 40-car crash on Idaho highway

Idaho State Police say roughly 40 vehicles were involved in a crash on an eastern Idaho highway after severe winter weather caused whiteout conditions, but only minor injuries were reported.

NDSU win 9th FCS title in 11 years 38-10 over Montana State

Hunter Luepke ran for three touchdowns in the first half and North Dakota State won its ninth FCS national championship in 11 seasons with a 38-10 win over Montana State on Saturday.

Woman accused of cancer fraud scheme pleads not guilty

A Flathead Valley woman is denying charges that she stole tens of thousands of dollars from donors in an alleged cancer fraud scheme.

Butte pulls off big rally at Flathead

You could have just about stuck a fork in the Butte Bulldogs Friday, after they struggled with pressure and allowed 21 second-quarter points and found themselves down 42-22 in the third period.

Spartans edge Wolfpack 54-51 with late comeback

Kaden Sheridan and Joseph Weida scored 11 points each and Missoula Sentinel rallied late to edge Glacier 54-51 in Western AA boys basketball Friday.

Converse, Moy lead Bravettes over Butte

Clare Converse scored 16 points, Maddy Moy added 14 and the Flathead Braves made it five straight wins Friday, holding off Butte 50-44 in Western AA girls’ basketball.

Law roundup: Pavilion patron asked to move along

A man was seen sleeping on the ground in a pavilion with a bottle of vodka. He was reportedly defecating in the pavilion. He was given a citation by the Kalispell Police Department and asked to move along.

Trego man pleads guilty to mitigated deliberate homicide

A Trego man accused of killing his adult son last year pleaded guilty Dec. 20 to a single count of mitigated deliberate homicide.

Letters to the editor Jan. 8

Letters to the editor Jan. 8

Legals for January, 8 2022

Stunning revelations

The new book, “The Real Anthony Fauci” by the Democrat icon, Robert F. Kennedy (son of Bobby Kennedy), is a must read for those who appreciate facts and verifiable scientific evidence that’s based on thorough research and backed up by numerous footnotes.

Katie Linda Miller Brodkin, 39

Beloved mother, daughter, sister, and friend Katie Linda Miller Brodkin passed away recently in Seattle at the age of 39.

Merry Maker kicks off Whitefish Winter Carnival

The Whitefish Winter Carnival LXIII gets under way starting today, Jan. 8, with the festive, bawdy adults-only Merry Maker party at 6 p.m. at the Whitefish Moose Lodge, a hilarious and hearty roast of Whitefish and current events.

Sentinel girls trip Pack in back-and-forth battle

Brooke Stayner and Emily McElmurry scored 14 points each, and McElmurry basket gave Missoula Sentinel the lead for good as the Spartans edged Glacier 53-49 in Western AA girls’ basketball action Friday.

Flathead wrestlers have strong first day in Boise

BOISE — The Flathead Brave Brawlers have seven wrestlers in quarterfinals and sit in 2nd place after Friday, the first day of the Rollie Lane Tournament in Boise.

Montana St in FCS final with home-state freshman at QB

Montana native Tommy Mellott sat on the bench in tears as the final seconds ticked off in Montana State's FCS semifinal playoff game at home.

Man sent to prison for crashing into home, killing Kalispell man

An Arizona man who was drunk when he drove into a Kalispell home and killed a man will spend time in state prison. Thomas Owen Lefevre, 20, was sentenced in Flathead District Court on Thursday to 20 years to the Montana State Prison, with 16 years suspended.

Avalanche blocks I-90 on Montana side of Lookout Pass

A snowslide blocked the westbound lanes of Interstate 90 near Lookout Pass in western Montana on Friday, closing the highway overnight, while avalanche warnings were in place in western Montana and for the Cooke City area north of Yellowstone National Park, officials said.

Judge again tosses permit for Creston water-bottling plant

A Flathead County District Court Judge has ruled that the state unlawfully granted a permit for a water-bottling plant in the Creston area.

CSKT Tribal Council elects McDonald as chairman

The Tribal Council of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes held its quarterly meeting Friday at the Tribes’ headquarters in Pablo, with the selection of new Council leadership high on the agenda.

Winter storm causes road, school closures

Heavy snow battered Northwest Montana on Thursday night into Friday, causing precarious driving conditions, and some road and school closures.

Law roundup: Saddle up, partners

The way a man was reportedly riding a horse all over a Kalispell parking lot had someone concerned he was trying to get onto a porch. He then fell off the horse so they decided it was time to call the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Local school districts get slice of $1M in tax credits

Within minutes, $1 million in tax credits were claimed by Montana public schools as part of an updated donation program intended to provide supplemental funding for innovative education.

Director hire could cost ImagineIF state accreditation

The ImagineIF Library Board of Trustees on Thursday voted to offer its director position to a candidate that if hired will likely mean the library system would lose not only state accreditation, but the funding that goes with it.

Legals for January, 7 2022

Finalist O’Connell in Texas for awards night

Saturday morning brings the Big Game, but Friday is a big night for a pair of Montanan linebackers in line for the Buck Buchanan Award.

Kalispell man struck and killed after crash on snowy highway

An 84-year-old man was struck and killed after his vehicle was involved in a crash on a snowy highway in southwestern Montana, the Montana Highway Patrol said Thursday.

Glacier's 2021 visitation 2nd highest ever

November visitation to Glacier National Park was down just over 10% from this time last year, according to statistics released by the National Park Service on Thursday, but the 26,300 visitors were enough to make visitation in 2021 the second highest on record.

County to use online platform for Covid contact tracing

The Flathead City-County Health Department is shifting to an online platform to contact Covid-19 positive individuals in anticipation of rising cases due to the more contagious omicron variant.

Hunters kill 20 Yellowstone wolves that roamed out of park

Twenty of Yellowstone National Park's renowned gray wolves roamed from the park and were shot by hunters in recent months — the most killed by hunting in a single season since the predators were reintroduced to the region more than 25 years ago, according to park officials.

Columbia Falls man accused of child sex abuse

A Columbia Falls man accused of raping numerous children at his home is set to be released from jail after posting bail on Wednesday.

Officials ID driver killed in U.S. 2 crash

Officials have identified the Columbia Falls resident who died Tuesday in a single vehicle crash on U.S. 2 near Conn Road.

Developer sues Whitefish over U.S. 93 hotel denial

A lawsuit has been filed against the City of Whitefish regarding the recent denial of a proposed hotel just off Highway 93 on the south end of town.

Lions hold ice fishing derby

Lions hold ice fishing derby

Nancy Lee Meyer, 77

Nancy Lee Meyer, 77, departed her earthly home to unite with her heavenly Father, Dec. 30, 2021.

Local artist offers portrait workshop

Diane Neville Knowles is offering an art workshop at Sykes Diner in Kalispell beginning Jan. 8.

NVMS offers free first lessons for new students this month

North Valley Music School in Whitefish invites new students and returning performers to enroll for their continuing winter music programming.

John White Speaker Series returns to History Museum

For 19 years, the Northwest Montana Historical Society’s John White Speaker Series has been a local highlight of the winter season, promising a slate of engaging and insightful discussions.

Legals for January, 6 2022

Wolfpack Theatre presents a poignant, coming-of-age story

The Wolfpack Theatre Company at Glacier High School presents the thought-provoking and poignant drama “Walk Two Moons” Jan. 10 and 11.

The Hockaday presents Members Salon 2022

Members Salon 2022 will be on view Jan. 7 through April 2 at the Hockaday Museum of Art in Kalispell.

COLUMN: Gilman has front-row seat to Cats’ run

When Tadan Gilman languished a bit for the Montana State Bobcats football team from 2017-19, he had a solid sounding board: His father, Mark.

1st recreational marijuana sales in Montana top $1.5 million

During the first weekend of legal recreational marijuana sales in Montana, customers purchased more than $1.5 million in products, the Department of Revenue said.

Kalispell Public Schools seeks community input at listening sessions

Kalispell Public Schools board of trustees invites community members to be part of the district’s strategic planning process by attending an upcoming listening session.

Rescued swan dies of lead poisoning

Last week, an adult trumpeter swan was found lethargic on the ice of Somers Bay of Flathead Lake, something was obviously wrong with the majestic bird.

Glacier's telecommunications plan approved

The National Park Service on Wednesday approved Glacier National Park’s telecommunications plan to address cellular and internet coverage in certain areas of the park.

Woman charged in New Year’s Eve stabbings

A Flathead County woman is accused of stabbing her father and another man during a New Year’s Eve dispute in Kalispell.

Medical marijuana users brace for shortages

More than a year after voters approved legalizing marijuana for recreational use in Montana, anyone older than 21 can now enter a dispensary and buy cannabis. That has medical marijuana user Joylynn Mane Wright worried.

Study: Climate change, invasive species drive native trout declines

In a new study published in Science Advances, University of Montana researchers found that climate change drives native trout declines by reducing stream habitat and facilitating the expansion of invasive trout species.

Cold weather stifled holiday visitation

Cold weather stifled holiday visitation

Dixie Arlene Jepson, 84

“In the early morning of Jan. 3, 2022, I peacefully passed away at St Peter’s Hospital in Helena.

William 'Bill' Edens, 83

William “Bill” Edens, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, lost his battle with Parkinson’s on Dec. 30, 2021, at the age of 83.

Brandon Eric Roberts

Brandon or known to some as “Brando," was born in the fall of 1976 in Kalispell as the second child of Beth and Danny.

Legals for January, 5 2022

Law roundup: Want a side of sandwich with that shot?

Store employees believed a bearded man wearing camo pants was drinking shots of alcohol in the deli area and allegedly was acting belligerently and yelling at staff. An employee told the Kalispell Police Department that the man had been asked to leave twice, but he kept returning.

William "Bill” Stanley Hart

William “Bill” Stanley Hart passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, Dec. 22, 2021, with his oldest son Randy at his side; Pop was 87 years old.

Gerald R. Bell, 95

Gerald R. Bell died Jan. 3, 2022, from natural causes at The Springs in Whitefish at the age of 95.

LeRoy C. Stevens, 80

LeRoy C. Stevens, 80, passed away in Bigfork on Dec. 20, 2021, and is now in a place of peace, calm and love.

Inter Lake announces newsroom changes

The Daily Inter Lake newsroom enters the new year with some changes in leadership.

Kimble Earl Woodring, 60

Kimble Earl Woodring, 60, was born on June 8, 1961, at General Rose Hospital in Denver to Earl and Louise Woodring and died Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2021, at Logan Health.

Explore the great outdoors around Thompson Falls

As the winter tightens its grip on Montana, most of us head for the warmth of our homes and fireplaces.

Glacier wrestlers sweep Hellgate

The Glacier girls and boys wrestling team literally pinned a couple losses on the Hellgate Knights, in Western AA dual action Tuesday at the Wolf Den.

Flathead boys, girls take down Knights

The Brave Brawlers pitched a shutout and the Bravettes made it a sweep of Missoula Hellgate Tuesday, in a pair of wrestling duals held at Flathead High School.

Gianforte won't use emergency powers to combat omicron

Gov. Greg Gianforte acknowledged the high degree of transmissibility of the omicron COVID-19 variant but maintained at a press conference Tuesday at the Capitol that Montana would not return to a state of emergency or implement a vaccine mandate.

Montana Supreme Court reverses attempted homicide conviction

The Montana Supreme Court has reversed a Miles City man's conviction for attempted deliberate homicide for threatening to stab a bar owner in the heart while the defendant sat handcuffed in the back of a law enforcement vehicle.

Heavy snow to hit Northwest Montana valleys

Widespread snowfall is expected to impact Northwest Montana beginning Thursday through Friday.

Trial begins for Kalispell man accused of killing wife

A jury trial for a Kalispell man accused of brutally killing his wife in 2020 got underway this week at Flathead County District Court.

Whitefish woman pleads guilty to DUI homicide

A Whitefish woman pleaded guilty Monday in Flathead County District Court to felony vehicular homicide while under the influence after she struck and killed a Columbia Falls girl with her vehicle in May 2021.

Oil, gas leasing on federal land to resume in first quarter

Oil and gas leasing on federal land is expected to resume early this year in North Dakota and Montana after the Biden administration halted the process nationwide last year.

Enrollment continues to climb in 2022

School enrollment is expected to continue its climb in 2022, specifically at the elementary and middle school level, with at least one district proposing to put a bond issue before voters in May to build a new middle school.

Organizers gather ideas to boost Troy's outdoor activities

Organizers with an outdoor access program are compiling public feedback on a plan intended to guide the management of recreational opportunities in the Troy area.

Joseph Voermans Jr., 94

Joseph Voermans Jr. died Jan. 1, 2022, of natural causes.

Busy day starts off recreational pot sales

Sales lit up at local cannabis dispensaries this weekend with the inauguration of legalized recreational marijuana in Montana.

Charles O. 'Chuck' Whitson, 88

Charles O. “Chuck” Whitson, 88, peacefully passed away at his home in St. Ignatius on Dec. 29, 2021, surrounded by family.

‘We will rise’ — Linderman student’s drawing chosen as mascot design

Kenzye Fishel’s drawing of a phoenix in flight against a backdrop of flames was chosen to be the design for Linderman Education Center’s new mascot.

Law roundup: Moved furniture not a crime

A woman called the Kalispell Police Department because she was suspicious that someone came on her porch and messed up the chairs and tables and wanted to file a report.

John Joseph Dalimata, 93

John Joseph Dalimata, 93, went to be with the Lord peacefully on the morning of Dec. 31, 2021.

Legals for January, 4 2022

Whitefish Community Center's new managers hope to expand offerings

The Whitefish Community Center has roots in the community that date back to the 1970s and it provides expansive services, especially for the senior population.

Investigators narrow search for origin of Colorado wildfire

Investigators looking for the cause of the Colorado wildfire that destroyed nearly 1,000 homes have narrowed their search to a sparsely populated neighborhood near Boulder where a passer-by captured video of a burning shed on the day the fire began, authorities said.

Law roundup: Customers afraid of Taser in a box

Flathead County Sherriff’s office received a call about customers being afraid of a woman who reportedly had a Taser in a box at a Kalispell business.

Subdivision proposed near Grouse Mountain soccer fields

Development is front and center as the Whitefish City Council starts the new year by considering a 20-lot residential subdivision next to the Grouse Mountain soccer fields on Fairway Drive.

Kalispell council welcomes new members

A short Kalispell City Council meeting on Monday will focus on a changing of the guard, so to speak.

Retired fighter pilot vividly recalls combat missions in Vietnam

The first time Jim Cash took the controls of a jet as a teenager, he knew he was right where he was meant to be.

Rylie Anne Buechel

Rylie Anne Buechel, daughter of Jodie and Andrew Buechel of Kalispell, was born Sept. 9, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center.

Scientist, enforcer, high-flyer: 3 women put a mark on tech

Scientist, enforcer, high-flyer: 3 women put a mark on tech

Biden: More competition in meat industry can ease food costs

Biden: More competition in meat industry can ease food costs

Orphaned Mission Valley grizzlies thriving at Maryland Zoo

A pair of grizzly cubs found starving near St. Ignatius in 2016 have adapted well to their new home at The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, according to their caretakers.

Law roundup: Managers cry foul over stolen milk

Two shoplifters made off with some milk, a bottle and some other unknown goods, and the managers of the robbed grocery store opted to press charges, they told the Kalispell Police Department.

The future of hope within our democratic institutions

I am rounding out my first term in the Montana Legislature and have spent the past year thinking about hope: where we find hope, how we create it, what is both feeding and eroding it, and the future of hope within our democratic institutions.

Plan emerges to turn Kalispell hotel into studio apartments

A proposal to convert the Fairbridge Inn & Suites and Outlaw Convention Center, formerly known as The Outlaw Inn, into roughly 250 studio apartments is the focus of a public hearing Jan. 11 before the Kalispell Planning Board.

Montana to ‘keep up the good fight’ against aquatic invaders, wasting disease

Local fish and game officials can consider 2021 a success in the effort to combat the threat of aquatic invaders and Chronic Wasting Disease, and will look to stay on a similar course in the year ahead.

Montana Coffee Traders to reopen Kalispell coffee shop

Montana Coffee Traders is targeting a February reopening of its downtown Kalispell coffee shop.

Legals for January, 2 2022

James Joseph Duval, 73

James Joseph Duval, 73, of Kalispell, passed away Nov. 5, 2021, at Logan Health Medical Center.

New owners of Bigfork bowling alley aim to make it a destination center

The bowling alley in Bigfork recently came under new ownership after it was purchased by professional bowler Rhino Page and his business partner Jeff Heinle.

The (unexpected) little joys of the holidays

Here are a few of the quirky endeavors and serendipities that colored my Christmas this year.

$29,000 for an average used car? Would-be buyers are aghast

$29,000 for an average used car? Would-be buyers are aghast

CSKT documentary chronicles Tribes' Covid struggles

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe’s Education Department has released a short documentary entitled "Calling Our Warriors."

Letters to the editor Jan. 2

Letters to the editor Jan. 2

Why the Supreme Court is likely to overrule Roe v. Wade

In December the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on the constitutional validity of the Mississippi law that prohibits abortions after the 15th week of pregnancy.

Managing forest litigation

More than 80 million acres of federal Forest Service land need to be treated with mechanical thinning, prescribed fire, replanting and erosion control techniques to help reduce wildfire damage while promoting healthier forests.

Business watercooler

Business watercooler

Resilience, fortitude carry the Flathead into 2022

We’ve stepped into the new year in a very different place than we were a year ago.

What to know about returning holiday gifts

National Returns Day annually falls during the first week of January, inundating businesses and postal services alike with some of the highest return volumes of the year. Understanding return policies is your key to ensuring effective returns after the holiday.

CES gadget show stages a wary return amid COVID-19

CES gadget show stages a wary return amid COVID-19

Official: Nearly 1K homes destroyed in Colorado wildfire

A Colorado official says nearly 1,000 homes were destroyed, hundreds more were damaged, and that three people are missing after a wildfire charred numerous neighborhoods in a suburban area at the base of the Rocky Mountains northwest of Denver.

Kalispell man gets 55 years for killing man with brick

A Kalispell man who admitted to deliberately killing another man with a cement brick in 2019 is headed to the state prison.

Efforts to clear marijuana convictions have mixed results

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — When voters approved recreational cannabis in the fall of 2020, they also created a path for people previously convicted of now-legal actions to have their records cleared. While some say the process has worked well and quickly, the pace of requests hasn't met what the state anticipated, some seeking expungement are hitting snags and defense attorneys say in certain places stigma has created roadblocks.

Nonprofits ready to tackle variety of issues in 2022

Nonprofits in the valley are ready to help solve some of the Flathead’s most daunting issues in the coming year, from housing and food insecurity to water quality and land conservation.

Michael Clyde Bear, 64

Michael Clyde Bear, 64

Law roundup: Lakeside man suspects intentional plowing

A Lakeside resident took a video of his neighbor plowing snow in front of his vehicles.

Montanans deserve the real truth about Zinke

Everyone has experienced the neighborhood barking dog. You know – the poor pup, chained outside, that just barks, barks, barks.

Letters to the editor Jan. 1

Letters to the editor Jan. 1