Ellington

The Kats of '83

Players recall landmark girls basketball title

In the end Columbia Falls played AA starting in 1980-81, and if others were worried about having the classification’s lowest enrollment (a reported 725 in 1980), well, let’s just say the girls were ready.

Critical fire weather fans Elmo blaze

Dangerous fire weather threatened to fan the Elmo Fire on Sunday as the blaze continued to expand its footprint west of Flathead Lake.

Peggy Jean Blumer, 93

Peggy Jean Blumer was born to Ray and Alma Bryan on March 24, 1929.

Top-seeded Billings Royals oust Lakers from State AA Legion

BILLINGS — Davis Mosier had four hits and drove in three runs and an eight-run third inning that carried the Billings Royals over the Kalispell Lakers 14-5 Saturday, at the State AA Legion tournament.

Lovell repeats as State Am champion

Libby's Ryggs Johnston is third

BOZEMAN — It was déjà vu at the 105th Montana State Amateur Championships, as all three divisions will have the same winners as in 2021.

Wofford homers again in Riders loss

Brody Wofford homered again, but the Glacier Range Riders fell to Missoula 5-2 in a Pioneer League game Saturday.

Family looks to open new restaurant in former Evergreen Applebee’s

The owner and operator of Los Caporales in Evergreen for 28 years, Carmina Lopez says the new restaurant came about due to a set of serendipitous circumstances.

Post-9/11 combat veterans suffer amid political ploy

A day planned for celebration by national Veterans Service Organizations turned to shock and downright outrage Thursday on the steps of the U.S. Capitol as Senate Republicans blocked passage of legislation that would expand health care and benefits to post-9/11 veterans exposed to toxic burn pits.

Governor, MDLI chief economist paint rosy economic picture for Montana

Montana’s economic future looks bright, according to Barb Wagner, chief economist with the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

Legals for July, 31 2022

Stocks rally, close out best month since Nov. 2020

Stocks rally, close out best month since Nov. 2020

Deal should make it easier to buy electric vehicles

The measure agreed to by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and holdout Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia would give EV buyers a $7,500 tax credit starting next year, through the end of 2032. There’s also a new $4,000 credit for those buying used EVs, a move to help the middle class go electric.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Eileen McDowell, 67

Eileen McDowell, 67, died at her home in Eureka on June 28, 2022.

A walk prompts liking to lichen

One of the first things we learned: Lichen is not a plant.

Use surplus to reduce liabilities and encourage investments

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the federal government poured $14.5 billion into Montana’s economy over the past two years.

Blankenship’s gravel bar to remain unprotected

On Friday, July 15, Judge Donald Malloy denied Friends of the Flathead River’s motion for a temporary injunction to prevent camping on the Blankenship gravel bar on the Flathead River.

New owners take over at Evergreen Liquor Store

The store’s new owners, Michelle and Scott Moore, are gently easing their way into the company’s culture by learning from the veteran staff.

Wounded Knee artifacts highlight slow pace of repatriations

Some 870,000 Native American artifacts — including nearly 110,000 human remains — that should be returned to tribes under federal law are still in the possession of colleges, museums and other institutions across the country, according to an Associated Press review of data maintained by the National Park Service.

Clara Johnson, 96

On the morning of April 11, 2022, at age 96, Clara passed away of natural causes in her home at Hunter’s Pointe, her devoted daughter Barbara at her side.

Chamber’s administrative assistant excited to serve Evergreen

The aftermath of the holiday celebration wasn’t pleasant, but what came next was a great example of how the Evergreen Chamber of Commerce works in cooperation with the community.

Law roundup: Like irritable owner, like irritable dog

A dog on the loose reportedly growled at a Columbia Falls woman and her dogs. She told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office the last time the dog was loose and acting viciously, the owner came and got the dog they hit it on the head with a soda can and were aggressive toward it.

Hugh Benjamin Cecil, 60

Hugh Benjamin Cecil, 60, of Kalispell, passed away on Saturday, July 23, 2022, in Aurora, Colorado.

Columbia Falls man’s passion for gelato spawns a new small business

In a world that sometimes seems upside down and sideways, David Restivo just wants to make people happy, at least for a little while.

Doctor’s personal experience inspires different kind of clinic

At the beginning of 2021, as Dr. Daniel Gragert was considering several job offers with intense hours and high pay in traditional medicine, he received devastating news: a cancer diagnosis.

Surplus should go to housing, lowering taxes, child care and mental-health services

When Montana legislators meet in January for the 2023 session, we’ll be walking in the door with well over a billion dollars in the bank.

Unprecedented profit for major oil drillers as prices soared

On Friday, Exxon Mobil booked an unprecedented $17.85 billion profit for the second quarter and Chevron made a record $11.62 billion. The sky-high profits come one day after the U.K.'s Shell shattered its own profit record.

Miracle League provides opportunities beyond baseball

The Miracle League, Kalispell’s baseball league for athletes with special needs, hosted its final games of the season last week.

Brian McKenzie Kennedy, 67

Brian McKenzie Kennedy, 67, died Friday, July 22, 2022, in Glacier National Park in a climbing accident on Dusty Star Mountain.

John Robert Barr, 75

On July 10, 2022, John Robert Barr passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer.

Pediatrician applies parenting perspective to medical care

Dr. Kenneth Graham, who practices at Logan Health Children’s Primary Care, was selected as the Best Pediatrician in the Daily Inter Lake’s annual Best of the Flathead readers poll.

Eugene James Sweeney, 81

Gene Sweeney, 81, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully of natural causes on July 15, 2022, at BeeHive Homes of Kalispell.

Wofford homer lifts Range Riders to Friday win

Brody Wofford broke a 1-1 tie with a three-run home run in the fifth inning, and the Glacier Range Riders downed Missoula 4-1 in Pioneer League baseball Friday at Flathead Field.

Elmo Fire balloons to 7,000 acres

Evacuation orders were issued Friday night after a wildfire quickly ballooned near Elmo on the west side of Flathead Lake.

PHOTOS: Knights of Columbus Brisket Showdown

Scenes from the Knights of Columbus Brisket Showdown held at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell on Saturday, July 30.

Avian flu strikes Flathead Valley

According to a press release from the Montana Department of Livestock (MDOL), Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) was confirmed in a Flathead County backyard poultry flock consisting of seven animals Monday, July 24.

Accused murderer pleads guilty to mitigated deliberate homicide

Tanner Doyle White, 22, entered the guilty plea during an appearance in Flathead County District Court on July 20.

Bigfork's 'bridge to nowhere' coming down

Bigfork’s ‘bridge to nowhere’ is slated to come down this winter after years of legal battles.

Court case continued for man arrested following standoff

Quinn Garrett Lewis, 43, pleaded not guilty to a single felony count of assault with a weapon filed in the wake of his arrest earlier this year.

A Legion: Northstars oust Twins

BELGRADE — Eli Cloninger’s RBI double gave Havre the lead for good, and the Northstars went on to down the Glacier Twins in a State A Legion loser-out game Friday.

House approves bill to help West fight wildfires, drought

The House on Friday approved wide-ranging legislation aimed at helping communities in the West cope with increasingly severe wildfires and drought — fueled by climate change — that have caused billions of dollars of damage to homes and businesses in recent years.

Evacuations ordered near Elmo as fire grows to 4,000 acres

Evacuation orders were issued Friday night after a wildfire blew up near Elmo on the west side of Flathead Lake.

Coroner says Glacier climbers fell after rock broke loose

Two mountain climbers who died in Glacier National Park earlier this week fell nearly 1,000 feet after the rock they were climbing on broke loose, officials investigating the accident report.

BLM gives green light to American Prairie grazing plan, while Gianforte blasts decision

The Bureau of Land Management has issued its final decision to allow American Prairie to graze bison on 63,500 acres of land in Phillips County.

Tester responds to toxic burn pit legislation failing

Last month, 84 United States senators voted in favor of bipartisan legislation that would have extended health coverage for military veterans exposed to toxic burn pits and later suffer diseases because of those harmful effects.

Law roundup: Officers take out the trash — literally

One man’s trash is another man’s possible drug stash and concerned residents had officers with the Kalispell Police Department sifting through several piles of rubbish on the lookout for suspicious items.

PaddleHeads rally late to edge Range Riders

Glacier was on the verge of a third straight victory Thursday, before the Missoula PaddleHeads scored six runs in the last three innings to take a 7-5 Pioneer League win at Flathead Field.

Duane Carlson, 86

Duane Carlson of Whitefish was born June 9,1936, in North Dakota to Arthur and Genevieve Carlson.

John Charles Goodrich, 86

John Charles Goodrich died July 14, 2022, at home in Kalispell.

AA Legion: Holden, Lakers eliminate Bucks

BILLINGS — Max Holden threw a five-hit shutout to push the Kalispell Lakers into the final four at the State AA Legion tournament, after a 3-0 win over the Bozeman Bucks Friday at Dehler Park.

A Legion: Twins fall to Bandits in 10 innings

BELGRADE — The Glacier Twins had another late-inning rally Thursday, but couldn’t hold onto their own lead in a 9-5, 10-inning loss to Belgrade at the State A Legion baseball tournament.

Osweiler joining ESPN as college analyst

Brock Osweiler is heading to the announcers’ booth.

ImagineIF staff honored for response to challenged books

Librarians at ImagineIF learned this week that they will receive the Pat Williams Intellectual Freedom Award for their response to challenges against two now controversial books — “Lawn Boy” and “Gender Queer” — next month.

AA Legion: Senators allow one hit, stop Lakers 11-0

BILLINGS — Helena pitcher Mike Hurlbert held Kalispell hitless for four-plus innings, and the defending champion Senators handled the Lakers 11-0 at the State AA Legion tournament Thursday at Dehler Park.

Doh! Neighbors rally to rescue doe stuck upside down in ditch

Maybe, just maybe, someone thought, if you plant a deer upside down it will grow into a new deer.

Fair Parade won’t happen this year

A highlight of fair week for many, the Northwest Montana Fair Parade will not occur this year.

Man details harrowing moments of fiery wreck, meets family of teen he saved

A Troy man is credited for helping save the lives of two teens who were caught in a fiery wreck on U.S. 2 and Walsh Road earlier this month.

Kalispell man pleads guilty to rape charge

Elton Jones, 21, pleaded guilty to a single felony count of sexual intercourse without consent on July 27 after striking a deal with prosecutors.

County hires firm to evaluate jail needs

County commissioners on Thursday approved a contract for $166,000 with Slate Architecture to complete the study. The firm is based in both Helena and Omaha, Nebraska.

Legals for July, 29 2022

Judges finds new Montana election law unconstitutional

A Montana law that would have required people who turn 18 in the month before an election to vote in person — thus denying them the option to vote absentee — violates the state Constitution, a judge has ruled.

Survivors in East Glacier attack released from hospital

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (AP) — Two sisters-in-law have been released from the hospital after suffering critical injuries during a brutal attack near Glacier National Park in which two members of their family were shot and killed.

Feds: $401M will add high-speed internet to rural U.S.

The federal government is pledging $401 million in grants and loans to expand the reach and improve the speed of internet for rural residents, tribes and businesses in remote parts of 11 states from Alaska to Arkansas.

Judge rejects effort to close Blankenship to camping

A federal judge has ruled against a group of concerned residents who want to shut down a Forest Service managed camp on a gravel bar just south of the Blankenship Bridge.

Making waves at DREAM Adaptive's Water Sports Week

An inviting lawn fitted with towering trees looking out onto Echo Lake near Bigfork is filled with families from many different walks of life.

A Legion: Andrachick triple keys Twins’ big 7th

BELGRADE — Steven Andrachick laced a bases-loaded triple to key a six-run seventh inning, and the Glacier Twins downed the Laurel Dodgers 13-7 at the State A Legion baseball tournament Wednesday.

Letters to the editor July 28

Letters to the editor July 28

Whose PSC is it, anyway?

In a seemingly small but important way, the PSC (Public Service Commission) is seeking a rule change at their hearing on Aug. 2 to limit the ability of the public (the “P” in PSC) to provide suggestions and participate in the decisions made by the PSC.

Garry Lee Fortin, 86

Garry Lee Fortin was one of twin sons born to Louis (Bee) Fortin and Helen Rasmussen Fortin on April 10, 1936, in Malta. Garry passed away July 23, 2022.

Mannheim Steamroller’s 2022 Tour comes to Wachholz College Center

The iconic Christmas group Mannheim Steamroller will stop for a concert in Kalispell on Wednesday, Dec.14, at the Wachholz College Center as part of its annual Christmas concert tour.

Law roundup: Man tests the water and gets tackled

Someone in Kalispell wanted the Flathead County Sherriff’s Office to know they reportedly chased a man down and tackled him when they saw him turning on the water outside a building despite thinking he was just getting a drink.

Jamie Wyman Band releases debut album

The Jamie Wyman Band will release its debut album “Road Less Traveled” with a listening party at Slow Burn Records beginning at 6:30 p.m. Friday, July 29.

Church Slough Work Group to meet in Kalispell Aug. 2

A group of citizens tasked with discussing recreational boating on Church Slough south of Kalispell is scheduled to meet for the first time on Aug. 2.

Man accused of attempted theft questions his arrest

Hunter Cole White, 21, faces one felony count of attempted theft in Flathead County District Court following his July 22 arrest. He is being held in the county jail on $15,000 bond.

Film exhibit tells story of Glacier Park’s esteemed ranger

The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art in Great Falls is presenting a touching and informative documentary film exhibit about longtime Glacier National Park ranger Doug Follett

Cassandra Marie (Murray) Juntunen, 40

Cassandra Marie (Murray) Juntunen, 40, passed away June 9, 2022, at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell.

Column: On the outside of Legion ball, a Premier arm

The question was posed of Ty Schwaiger that, given his arm strength, has he told teammate Fynn Ridgeway that the wrong guy plays QB for the Whitefish Football Bulldogs?

0728 TWIF briefs

Live music at Columbia Falls Sunday Market

Kalispell woman accused of using pepper spray on roommates

A 48-year-old Kalispell woman faces an assault with a weapon charge after allegedly attacking her roommates with a type of pepper spray and a knife earlier this month.

Local marijuana tax hearing draws few comments

Fewer than a dozen people showed up for a hearing Wednesday morning as Flathead County commissioners took input on a potential local tax on marijuana sales.

Festival Amadeus celebrates 15th anniversary

The Glacier Symphony presents the 15th annual Festival Amadeus, the region’s only week-long classical music festival, offering spectacular chamber and orchestra concerts in the Whitefish Performing Arts Center, Aug. 9 to 14.

Dancing to the Strings showcases Argentine tango

The Lord of the Strings concert series takes the stage for Opus 7 of 12, Dancing to the Strings — a collaboration between master violinist Wai Mizutani, pianist Xiao-Long Chen and drummer Rob Spencer, with special guest dance couple Rob Montango and Faith Morrison, professional Argentine tango and ballet dancers — will take place over two concert dates, Friday and Saturday, July 29 and July 30, at the O'Shaughnessy Cultural Arts Center.

Range Riders rout PaddleHeads again, 13-2

Ryan Cash and Robbie Scott homered, Drew Sims had another big game and the Glacier Range Riders won their second straight Pioneer League game from Missoula Wednesday, 13-2.

Second man involved in bungled burglary pleads guilty

Colton Theodore Wieczorek, 19, pleaded guilty June 23 in Flathead County District Court to criminal endangerment.

Father arrested for allegedly beating his daughter

Deputies with the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office arrested Tyeler Cole Dana that same day. He is being held in county jail on a $40,000 bond.

Lakers muscle past Scarlets at State AA Legion

The Kalispell Lakers downed the Billings Scarlets 9-6 in a back-and-forth State AA Legion first-round game Wednesday at Dehler Park.

Legals for July, 28 2022

Western governors meet in Idaho to discuss common issues

COEUR D'ALENE — The breadth of Western issues handled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture is wide, but in his address to Western governors on Tuesday in Coeur d’Alene, U.S. Secretary Tom Vilsack focused on issues Idaho and the West faces every day.

Garry Lee Fortin, 86

Garry Lee Fortin was one of twin sons born to Louis (Bee) Fortin and Helen Rasmussen Fortin on April 10, 1936, in Malta.

Deadline approaching for fair competition registration

The deadline to enter 4-H/FFA or Open Class competitions at the Northwest Montana Fair is Aug. 1.

Court docs: Drunk driver accused of killing pedestrian thought she hit an animal

Desirea Garrera, 25, faces a vehicular homicide while under the influence felony charge in Flathead County District Court following her arrest over the weekend.

Newcomers help Range Riders top Missoula

The newcomers impressed and Tanner Solomon got his first professional pitching win Tuesday, as the Glacier Range Riders thumped Missoula 9-2 in a Pioneer League game.

Legals for July, 27 2022

Law roundup: Resident loses sleep over stolen mattress

An older Tempurpedic mattress with a stained white cover was reportedly stolen from out front of a location and the owner wanted it logged for information in case Kalispell Police Department officers came across it.

Columbia Falls’ Heritage Days runs July 27-31

This year’s theme is “Best of Times.”

Youngsters read to therapy dogs at Whitefish library

The Reading Education Assistance Dogs (known as R.E.A.D.), visited Whitefish Community Library recently to demonstrate the power of partnering with a therapy animal to boost confidence and reading skills.

FVCC’s Festival of Flavors raises $80,000 for scholarships

The Flathead Valley Community College Foundation hosted its Festival of Flavors summer event on June 30 raising $80,000 for student scholarships.

Kalispell man arrested after allegedly attacking his ex, her boyfriend and daughter

Jerrad Raymond Merrill, 30, allegedly told authorities during his arrest that he “took care of it like a man” when he learned that his ex-wife was in a new relationship, court documents said.

Dorothy L. Whitney, 101

Our mother was a beautiful person. Dorothy passed away at home on Jan. 22, 2022, at the age of 101.

Kalispell Police on lookout for alleged bank robber

Authorities in Kalispell are searching for a man they say robbed a bank on U.S. 93 just after noon on Tuesday.

Renowned local artist charged with criminal endangerment

Famed local landscape artist Nicholas Oberling faces a criminal endangerment charge in Flathead County District Court for allegedly wiring his significant other’s shower soap dish to deliver electrical shocks.

Bodies of 2 climbers recovered from Glacier peak

Glacier National Park has released the names of the two local men killed in a climbing accident on Dusty Star Mountain this week.

Hiker dies in Glacier National Park trying to ascend Rising Wolf Mountain

Glacier National Park saw its third hiking fatality in two days Monday as a 79-year-old male from Florida fell while attempting to ascend a steep off-trail slope with a group of friends. The incident occurred several hundred feet above the Two Medicine Campground on Rising Wolf Mountain.

BASE jumper caught on camera after launching off of Mt. Siyeh

Officials at Glacier National Park are investigating an illegal BASE jump from Mt. Siyeh last weekend.

$1M donation supports FVCC performing arts center project

Local philanthropist Lola Vulles has donated $1 million to name and support the Stewart Family Performing Arts Wing of the Wachholz College Center at Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell.

Alpine Theatre Project's summer program pairs students with Broadway talent

Alpine Theatre Project's Broadway Summer Training Camp provides area children with an intensive overview of the performing arts under the tutelage of veteran Broadway performers.

Law roundup: ‘It’s Nerf or nothin’’ for teens in drive-by

A parent wanted to press charges against two boys who allegedly drove by their young daughter and her friend, who were out walking, and shot at them with Nerf guns.

Rents spike as big-pocketed investors buy mobile home parks

LOCKPORT, N.Y. (AP) — For as long as anyone can remember, rent increases rarely happened at Ridgeview Homes, a family-owned mobile home park in upstate New York.

Letters to the editor July 26

Letters to the editor July 26

Post-‘Roe,’ Montanans are seeking permanent sterilizations, and some are being turned away

The uncertainty around abortion access in Montana and other states where abortion is now or could become illegal, plus the fear of future legal fights over long-term contraception, has seemingly spurred a rise in the number of people seeking surgical sterilization, according to reports from doctors.

James 'Jim' Eugene Love, 85

James “Jim” Eugene Love, 85, of Swan Lake, passed away July 15, 2022.

Legals for July, 26 2022

Flathead County included in disaster relief program

Flathead County is now included under a federal disaster relief program to financially assist areas of Montana affected by historic flooding in June, Gov. Greg Gianforte’s office announced last week.

U.S. to plant more trees on charred western landscape

The Biden administration on Monday announced plans to replant trees on millions of acres of burned and dead woodlands as officials struggle to counter the increasing toll on the nation's forests from wildfires, insects and other manifestations of climate change.

Death of man over the weekend under investigation

Authorities are investigating the death of a California man after the discovery of his body about 9 a.m., July 24.

Bodies of two overdue hikers found in Glacier National Park

The bodies of two men were found in Glacier National Park on Monday morning after the pair were reported overdue from a climb on Dusty Star Mountain on Sunday.

Law roundup: Window bashing and tire slashing drama

Someone claimed a man bashed out a vehicle window and slashed a tire on their fiance’s car because of drama between them.

Legals for July, 25 2022

Bruce Patrick Conrad

Bruce Patrick Conrad passed away on the evening of July 8, 2022, surrounded by his family after a brief but aggressive bout with Covid pneumonia.

Denver R. Quimby, 41

Denver R. Quimby of Olney passed away at his home on July 17, 2022.

LaVonda 'Sugar' (Mills) Poor, 61

On July 8th, 2022, we said our final farewell to our loving mother LaVonda "Sugar" Poor.

Carol Bibler — A conservationist at heart and longtime steward to the land

Days before Carol Bibler and her husband Jim Watson headed out on a week-long horse-packing trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness, Bibler carved out time to talk about her and her husband’s civic and conservation efforts in the community, life on their Spring Brook Ranch, and her hopes for the Flathead Valley.

Our ancestors survived against all odds, we owe it to them to vote

Many people don’t know that Native Americans didn’t have the right to vote in federal elections until we were granted U.S. citizenship in 1924 and that it wasn’t until the 1960s that the last state granted us the right to vote in state elections.

Flathead County to discuss local marijuana tax

Flathead County commissioners on Wednesday will discuss the option of a local tax on marijuana sales.

Red Sox top Twins for Western A title

The Bitterroot Red Sox took advantage of huge offensive outbursts in the first and final innings to win the Western A district championship over the Glacier Twins, 13-1, at Griffin Field on Sunday.

Chukars outslug Range Riders, 9-6

Tom Walker stymied the Glacier Range Riders for six innings, and three Idaho Falls players homered in the Chukars’ 9-6 win in Pioneer League baseball at Flathead Field Sunday.

How canine heart disease was tied to grain-free dog food

In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, acting on input from a group of veterinary researchers, began investigating whether the increasing popularity of grain-free dog foods had led to a sudden rise in a potentially fatal heart disease in dogs, dilated cardiomyopathy.

EU struggles with how to cut off reliance on Russian gas

uropean Union nations are struggling to find common ground on how to wean the bloc off its reliance on Russian natural gas. They seek to appease wary consumers at home while upholding unity as Moscow turns down the tap.

Legals for July, 24 2022

Clyde Robert Devall, 88

Clyde Robert Devall, 88, passed away Wednesday, July 13, 2022.

Solving housing crisis requires multifaceted response

It didn’t take long for Gov. Greg Gianforte to put his newly created Housing Task Force to work.

Law roundup: With friends like these ...

Officers with the Kalispell Police Department were called in to apparently try and smooth things over between two friends suddenly at odds.

Car collector looks to share passion through museum

Donny Stevens’ fascination with cars goes back to his teenage years, racing his blue and white 1968 Chevy Camaro. Now, more than 46 years later, that Camaro is still in his collection.

Rick Donahue, 67

Whitefish Legend Richard “Rick” Donahue, 67, passed in Whitefish on July 4, 2022
, after a 15-year courageous battle with diabetes.

Amazon to buy primary care provider One Medical for $3.9B

Amazon will acquire the primary care organization One Medical in a deal valued roughly at $3.9 billion, marking another expansion for the retailer into health care services.

Inflation? Not where investment fees are concerned

This year’s crazy market swings prove once again how little control we have over our investments.

Dennis Gene Morgan, 75

On the morning of July 18, 2022, Dennis Gene Morgan, 75, of Dayton, Montana, died after an 18-month wrestle with acute myeloid leukemia.

Douglas Earl Clarke, 72

Douglas Earl Clarke, 72, passed away on July 14, 2022, in Newton, Massachusetts

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead businesses

Mama B’s Jubilee new owners have big plans for little cherry stand

When the chance arose to purchase Mama B’s Jubilee cherry stand, Brenda Koch seized the opportunity to breathe new life into the roadside staple.

Greater Valley Health provides myriad of services for patients

Since parting ways with Flathead County a year ago, the nonprofit Greater Valley Health is seeing exponential growth.

Kayak yak

I finally got my kayak out on the water this month for the first time, the latest in any season I’ve had my boat out.

Black Ram logging project deserves support

Last year’s South Yaak Fire scorched over 12,000 acres of the lower Yaak on the Kootenai National Forest, underscoring the need for active forest management to reduce future wildfire risks.

It’s time for FWP to follow the law on elk management

Montana’s elk population has tripled over the last 40 years. For decades we have exceeded the sustainable objective levels in most hunting districts.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Dennis Joseph "Denny" Lawrence, 72

Dennis Joseph "Denny" Lawrence passed away on June 30, 2022, at his home surrounded by family in Great Falls, from a brave battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease).

Nancy Lou Oshier, 74

Nancy Lou Oshier (nee Westcott), 74, of Bozeman, beloved wife, best friend, partner in life, adventurer, and soul mate for 52 years of Michael Oshier, passed away on July 15, 2022, under the care of her devoted husband, Enhabit Hospice and Qualicare MT after a long and difficult battle with a rare neurological disease.

Hyundai gets $1.8B for plant to build electric cars in Georgia

The state of Georgia and local governments are giving $1.8 billion in tax breaks and other incentives to Hyundai Motor Group in exchange for the automaker building its first U.S. plant dedicated to electric vehicles near Savannah, according to the signed agreement disclosed Friday.

Average US gasoline price falls 32 cents to $4.54 per gallon

The average U.S. price of regular-grade gasoline plunged 32 cents over the past two weeks to $4.54 per gallon.

Tech slump slows Wall Street’s winning week

Stocks slipped Friday, giving back some of their gains from earlier in the week as worries brewed about the global economy and prospects for profits at big internet companies. The S&P 500 lost 0.9% to break a three-day rally that had carried Wall Street to its highest level in six weeks.

June M. Van Koten, 92

June M. Van Koten, 92, a lifelong resident of Montana, passed away July 18, 2022, in Whitefish.

Bonnie Guthrie-Ross, 80

How can words possibly do justice to the person Bonnie was? Those that knew her will certainly understand how difficult a task it is.

New superintendent hopes to bring cooperative approach to Glacier National Park

When David Roemer earned his graduate degree from the University of Montana, he never dreamed he would later return to the state as the superintendent of Glacier National Park.

Letters to the editor July 24

Letters to the editor July 24

The ‘Keystone Pipeline’ won’t make gas any cheaper

Ever since boycotts started blocking Russian petroleum products, social media has been rife with memes that blame rising gasoline prices on “the cancellation of the Keystone Pipeline.”

Western A Legion: Red Sox top Twins, Mariners ousted, Bucs alive

First, second-seeded Mission Valley was bounced, and then the top-seeded Glacier Twins took a loss in the upside-down West A District Legion tournament Saturday at Griffin Field.

Kalispell's Meuchel goes back to her roots

It’s been a few years since Ashlynn Meuchel competed at The Event at Rebecca Farm, but it’ll always feel like home to her.

AA Lakers split with Scarlets; nab No. 6 seed to state

The Kalispell AA Lakers came reasonably close to sweeping the Billings Scarlets Friday night at Griffin Field, before settling for a split in Legion baseball.

Twins, Red Sox 2-0 at District; Lakers, Mariners win

The Glacier Twins and Bitterroot Red Sox got up early and came through Friday unbeaten at the West A District Legion baseball tournament, at Griffin Field.

PHOTOS: The Event at Rebecca Farm 2022

Hundreds of riders took part in The Event at Rebecca Farm 2022 this week.

New York motorist arrested after fatal crash in Kalispell

A New York motorist faces a vehicular homicide while under the influence felony charge after allegedly striking and killing a pedestrian on U.S. 2 in Kalispell early Saturday morning.

Montana tribe sues Interior over policing and jail space

A southeastern Montana tribe has filed a federal lawsuit against the Interior Department and its Bureau of Indian Affairs, saying the U.S. is not complying with its treaty obligation to provide adequate law enforcement services on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation.

Firefighting helicopter crashes into Idaho river, 2 on board

A firefighting helicopter with two people aboard crashed Thursday afternoon in the Salmon River in Idaho, officials said.

Man accused of wielding shotgun pleads not guilty to assault charge

A man arrested after allegedly threatening an attack with a shotgun at a Whitefish area bar has pleaded not guilty to an assault with a weapon charge in Flathead District Court.

Kalispell celebrates ‘momentous’ day with opening of Parkline

Kalispell came together Thursday to celebrate the opening of the Parkline Trail.

Pioneer League: 2-out rally lifts Chukars over Range Riders

Idaho Falls used a two-out rally to score four runs in the seventh inning, breaking open a close game that the Chukars won 7-3 over the Glacier Range Riders Saturday, at Flathead Field.

A sneak peek at the Wachholz College Center

A sneak peek at the soon-to-be open Wachholz College Center.

Chukars rally Friday to make it 2 straight vs. Riders

The Glacier Range Rider had the lead, then lost it, and fell to the Idaho Falls Chukars 9-5 Friday in a Pioneer League baseball game at Flathead Field.

Man accused of shoplifting, spitting on police arraigned

A homeless man accused of shoplifting bottles of wine, biting a store employee and spitting on police officers pleaded not guilty July 21 to multiple charges in Flathead County District Court.

Buckaroo Bennie Gardner lassoed by local law enforcement after manhunt

A wanted Kalispell man was pulled out of an area swamp and arrested Thursday following a manhunt involving state and local law enforcement with assistance from Two Bear Air.

Creston woman recognized by elite club for senior dressage riders

Marlene Mims, 80, was recently into the Century Club of the Dressage Foundation, an elite, nationally recognized club for senior dressage riders. She is the first person in Montana to achieve the honor.

Polebridge Bear Fair provides education on living with bears

Hosted by the North Fork Preservation Association, the fair will feature exhibits, speakers, and kid’s activities to promote awareness and stewardship specific to grizzly bears, black bears, and people sharing the diverse landscape of Northwestern Montana.

Whitefish Community Foundation’s longtime leader to retire

During her tenure, Linda Engh-Grady has grown the Whitefish Community Foundation assets from $1 million to $56 million, including $17 million in permanently endowed assets.

Supporters turn out to praise new library board appointee

Supporters of newly appointed ImagineIF Library Trustee Carmen Cuthbertson lauded her ascension at Thursday’s board meeting, thanking her and her colleagues for their efforts at removing materials they deem offensive.

June M. Van Koten, 92

June M. Van Koten, 92, a lifelong resident of Montana, passed away July 18, 2022, in Whitefish.

Legals for July, 22 2022

Relative of East Glacier Park rampage victims offers thanks for outpouring of support

BILLINGS (AP) — The father and grandfather of two victims of last weekend's brutal attack in East Glacier Park thanked those offering his family support and called on mourners to let go of any anger they hold.

Law roundup: Wherefore art thou Romeo?

A Kalispell area father contacted the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office after catching two teenage girls tapping on his son’s window. He said his son knew the girls and they had snuck out the night prior. The father told dispatchers that he was hoping to secure a police report so that he could get his son put on either probation or parole.

Outdoors groups call on Rosendale to remove his name from RETURN Act

Montana hunters, anglers and conservationists are speaking to Montana Rep. Matt Rosendale. But it’s unclear if he’s listening to them.

A Legion: Loggers knock off Mariners 2-1; Red Sox, Bucs win

You could call it upset, Libby’s 2-1 victory over the Mission Valley Mariners Thursday at the West A District Legion tournament, but the Loggers do have a pitcher that can stymie anyone.

Linda F. (Beck) Holliday, 72

Linda F. (Beck) Holliday, 72, of Kalispell, passed away July 11, 2022.

Helen (Hesse) Whitney, 88

Helen (Hesse) Whitney died July 14, 2022, due to a liver tumor. She had a well-lived life of 88 1/2 years, living independently and driving until her last admission to the hospital in early July.

Man linked to Evergreen homicide enters guilty plea

Joseph Michael James Malinowski, 28, appeared before Judge Robert Allison in Flathead County District Court on July 20 for a change of plea hearing after striking a deal with prosecutors.

Western A districts: Twins rally, beat Bandits

The Glacier Twins beat the Cranbrook Bandits 11-3 in comeback fashion Thursday afternoon at Griffin Field to kick off round one of the Western A District tournament.

Biden tests positive for Covid-19, has 'very mild symptoms'

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday and is isolating with "very mild symptoms," the White House said, as new variants of the highly contagious virus challenge the nation's efforts to get back to normal after two and a half years of pandemic.

Glacier's popular Highline Trail opens for summer

Glacier National Park’s popular Highline Trail has opened for the season, park officials announced Thursday.

Kathleen Mooney, 93

Kathleen Mooney “Coleen,” “Nana,” was born in Cork City, Ireland, on July 1, 1929, the third of seven children granted to Timothy and Kate Buckley.

Victor 'Mr. Vic' St. Martin, 97

Victor St. Martin was born Dec. 28, 1924, in Claremont, New Hampshire. His parents were Wilfred and Laurina (Giguere) St. Martin.

Dancing to the Strings concerts showcase Argentine tango

Dancing to the Strings concerts showcase Argentine tango

Anatomy lesson

Behold state Representative Brad Tschida bringing national attention to Montana by announcing that a woman’s uterus serves no real purpose for a woman, that it is a “sanctuary” for the pre-born.

Trial of man accused of assaulting children pushed back

Nicholas James Moskaloff, 43, who faces two counts of felony assault on a minor, was scheduled to go on trial this week in Flathead County District Court before Judge Robert Allison.

Letters to the editor July 21

Letters to the editor July 21

Indie, country stars combine in Under the Big Sky’s festival of Americana

Toward the end of Shakey Graves’ set, the one-man act from Texas plays an old standard of his, “Roll the Bones,” hitting the line “them city boys in country clothes” with extra emphasis.

Film exhibit tells story of Glacier Park’s esteemed ranger

The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art in Great Falls is presenting a touching and informative documentary film exhibit about longtime Glacier National Park ranger Doug Follett.

Legals for July, 21 2022

David Walburn’s songs — Polished to perfection

Longtime Flathead musician and songwriter David Walburn has a natural music style and lyrics that seem bound to get stuck in your head.

Lake County sues state to recoup Public Law 280 funds

Following through with a threat made earlier this year, the Lake County commissioners on July 14 filed a lawsuit against the state that argues the county is owed millions of dollars for its role in providing law enforcement on the Flathead Reservation.

Blankenship reopened to camping

The Flathead National Forest has reopened the Blankenship gravel bar for overnight camping. The area was closed to camping the past few weeks due to high water levels.

‘America’s Outdoor Recreation Act’ would help Montana’s economy

It’s no secret that Montanans are passionate about the great outdoors. With eight national parks bringing visitors from around the globe to the Treasure State, outdoor recreation drives the state’s economy, accounting for 4.3 percent of the state’s GDP – the highest percent of any U.S. state.

Law Roundup: Boyfriend hits on one weird trick to get free gas

A North Fork area resident stricken with Covid-19 called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office upset because she had asked her boyfriend to leave and he refused. His reasoning was that his truck was running on empty.

Nancy Lou Oshier, 74

Nancy Lou Oshier (nee Westcott), 74, of Bozeman, beloved wife, best friend, partner in life, adventurer, and soul mate for 52 years of Michael Oshier, passed away on July 15, 2022, under the care of her devoted husband, Enhabit Hospice and Qualicare MT after a long and difficult battle with a rare neurological disease.

Good pay and good fishing

Here it is, mid-July, and we aren’t breathing unhealthy air from forest fires. We can be thankful for a cool wet spring, so lots of forest vegetation is still mostly green, not yet burnable.

Hunters help clear abandoned wire in Montana elk country

Plastics are destroying aquatic life in the oceans. Wind turbines are killing bats and birds that fly into them. And vacated wire is causing slow, painful deaths for elk on the Idaho-Montana state line.

Housing task force sets sights on 'actionable' solutions

Describing Montana’s housing crisis as “complicated,” Gov. Greg Gianforte welcomed his newly formed Housing Task Force to the state capitol Wednesday for its inaugural meeting.

Pressure on Senate GOP after same-sex marriage passes House

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer announced a renewed push to protect same-sex marriage in federal law on Wednesday after a surprising number of House Republicans helped pass landmark legislation in that chamber. Some GOP senators are already signaling support.

Astros sign righty VanWey away from Range Riders

The Glacier Range Riders lost their opening day starter Tuesday, and for the right reason: The Houston Astros signed right-hander Logan VanWey to a Major League development contract.

Man hits family with pickup, kills 2 with shotgun in East Glacier rampage

A man drove his pickup truck into a family as they walked in East Glacier and opened fire with a shotgun, killing one man and mortally wounding a toddler who was in her mother's arms before the mother's sister-in-law managed to kill the assailant after he ran out of ammunition, authorities said.

Legals for July, 20 2022

Roundup for Safety awards community grants

The Roundup for Safety Board awarded $24,000 in community safety grants to nonprofit organizations at its July 14 meeting, including a $10,000 school safety study grant.

Kalispell approves increases in garbage collection rates

For residential customers, the rate increase is $17 in the first year and then is set to increase by 5% in the next three years.

Law roundup: Waiting for the price of gas to go down?

A gas station attendant in the Kalispell area phoned the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office after giving up on trying to get a vehicle to leave.

Accused heroin dealer pleads guilty to drug distribution charge

A Kalispell man arrested after selling heroin to a criminal informant in 2019 has pleaded guilty to felony criminal distribution of dangerous drugs in Flathead County District Court.

Jean Ann Sorensen, 74

Jean Ann Sorensen, 74, of Lincoln, Nebraska, passed away July 13, 2022.

CASA volunteers sworn in

Each will work as a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) for abused and neglected children in the Flathead County foster care system.

Jeannette Beatrice Wicklund, 81

Jeannette Beatrice Wicklund was born to Ellis Wicklund and Maribelle Brist in Salt Lake Cityon Wednesday, June 11, 1941, and passed away, age 81, at home in Polson on Monday, July 11, 2022.

Dennis O. Martinson, 74

Dennis O. Martinson, 74, was born in Fargo, North Dakota, to Lucille and Orrin Cyrus “Bob” Martinson. He passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 16, 2022, at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell.

Nutrient imbalance found in Flathead Lake

Through a series of experiments, a team of researchers showed that Flathead Lake phytoplankton are phosphorus-limited.

Alice Elizabeth Rufenach (Mower), 94

Alice Elizabeth Rufenach (Mower), 94, passed away July 6, 2022, at her daughter's ranch in Lakeside where she had lived for the last four years.

Jeri Lea Lincoln

“You belong among the wildflowers, you belong on a boat out at sea, sail away, kill off the hours, you belong somewhere you feel free.” — Tom Petty

Nonprofit founder speaks about work in Afghanistan

MacKenzie will speak on Thursday in Kalispell about the nonprofit organization with its mission to provide better education and quality of life for children and families in Afghanistan.

Man linked to Whitefish shooting back out on bond

Wilson Dane Huyser, the man accused of a May shooting in Whitefish that left a bystander injured, is back out on bond.

AA Lakers split home twinbill with Medicine Hat

The Kalispell Lakers AA dropped the first game of their double header with the Medicine Hat Moose Monarchs 11-1 at Griffin Field on Tuesday.

Polson man sentenced for beating girlfriend to death

A 21-year-old Polson man residing in Aurora, Colo., was sentenced to prison July 12 for the brutal killing of his girlfriend last year.

California woman victim of rare predatory grizzly attack

A California woman who was fatally mauled by a grizzly bear in western Montana last summer was the victim of a rare predatory attack by a bear that had learned to seek out human food and was likely attracted scents near her tent and others left behind from recent Independence Day picnics, wildlife officials said.

Small wildfires crop up across Flathead Reservation

Recent hot and dry weather prompted the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes' Divison of Fire on Monday to elevate the fire danger to "high" on the Flathead Reservation, where a trio of small blazes were reported over the last week.

Recounts results confirm Bukacek won utility board GOP primary

Ballot recounts conducted in four counties, the last concluding Monday, confirm that Flathead Valley internal medicine doctor Ann “Annie” Bukacek has won the Republican primary for a seat on the five-member board that regulates the state’s monopoly utility power, water, garbage and telecommunications companies.

GOP approves platform calling for total ban on abortion, hand-counting ballots and adherence to the party line

The crowd at the 2022 Montana GOP Platform Convention Saturday was often hostile to Rep. David Bedey, a bespectacled, besuited Republican from Hamilton whose comparatively moderate voting record has more than once put him at odds with hardliners in the Legislature and party base.

Advisory committee deadlocks over school counselor ratio

A state education committee tasked with advising the Montana Board of Education on changes to school quality regulations deadlocked Friday as it debated whether to support abandoning a requirement that Montana schools employ at least one school counselor for every 400 students.

Man accused of stealing wine allegedly bit store employee, spat at officers

Robert Eugene McCarty, 35, faces felony robbery and misdemeanor assault with a bodily fluid following his July 13 arrest.

Legals for July, 19 2022

Letters to the editor July 19

Letters to the editor July 19

Gene Vuckovich, 86

Visitation for Gene Vuckovich, 86, who passed away July 12, 2022, in Anaconda will begin at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 19, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Anaconda.

Law Roundup: You drink, you drive, you lose

An officer coming to a stop at the corner of Oregon Street and Seventh Avenue East North waved to let another motorist go first. That driver turned right without using a turn signal. Intrigued, the officer followed and watched as the motorist later took a hard left, failing to yield to oncoming traffic, before parking at a local casino.

Flathead County accepting applications for ImagineIF board vacancy

Flathead County Commissioners are taking applications for the newly vacant position on the ImagineIF Library Board of Trustees until Aug. 1.

AA Lakers have a southpaw leader in Kostya Hoffman

Kostya Hoffman readily tells you that baseball is his sport, and his three years pitching with the Kalispell Lakers AA squad bears that out.

Police laud actions of man who killed Indiana mall attacker

GREENWOOD, Ind. (AP) — A gunman who shot five people at a suburban Indianapolis shopping mall, killing three of them before a shopper shot and killed him, was a 20-year-old local man who was apparently facing eviction, authorities said Monday.

3 killed including child in Blackfeet Reservation shooting

Three people — including an 18-month old child — have been killed in a shooting on Montana's Blackfeet Indian Reservation, authorities said Monday.

3-year-old among 6 killed in Montana highway pileup

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A 3-year-old was among six people killed in a pileup Friday afternoon on a Montana highway during blackout conditions caused by dust storms, officials said Monday.

Two killed after being struck by Montana deputy's vehicle

A Montana sheriff's deputy has been placed on administrative leave after the deputy's patrol vehicle struck and killed two pedestrians along a rural highway, Carbon County Sheriff Josh McQuillan said Monday.

Fiery wreck on U.S. 2 leaves 8 hospitalized

A fiery wreck on U.S. 2 East and Walsh Road sent eight people to the hospital Sunday afternoon.

Recreational marijuana county and city opt-out votes have no end in sight

Kendrick Richmond moved from South Carolina to Philipsburg to start work at his friend’s dispensary when it opened in June 2021 and had no interest in getting involved in local politics.

Kalispell Council set to vote on garbage rate increase

The last time city solid waste rates, which are collected through property tax assessments, were increased was in 2011 and that was by $3 per year.

Legals for July, 18 2022

Apology from one general for another

Seldom have I felt the need to apologize for the words spoken by a fellow United States Air Force General Officer.

Letters to the editor July 18

Letters to the editor July 18

Sparrow’s Nest manager aims to be positive influence for teens

Sparrow’s Nest aims to provide safe housing, support and resources for unaccompanied, homeless high school students in the Flathead Valley while they work toward graduation or completing the HiSET, a high school equivalency test.

Law roundup: Hail no! Homeowner tells handyman to scram

An alleged handyman got on the nerves of a homeowner, who told police that the man had been by twice to offer to inspect his roof for hail damage. During the interactions, the handyman had refused to leave the property until the homeowner threatened to call the authorities and at one point tried to get on his roof using a ladder.

PHOTOS: Logan Health Kids Triathlon at Kalispell

Competitors ages 4-13 participated in the Logan Health Kids Triathlon on Saturday, July 16 at Woodland Park in Kalispell.

Toddler, 2 more kids among 6 killed in I-90 crash

Two children are among the six people who died in a Montana pileup after a Friday evening dust storm caused blackout conditions on Interstate 90, a major route in both Montana and the Western U.S.

Connecting the core: New Parkline Trail center of effort to create vibrant downtown

The community will gather on Thursday, July 21 in an event hosted by the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the opening of the Parkline Trail.

PHOTOS: Under the Big Sky music festival in Whitefish

Thousands gathered at Big Mountain Ranch in Whitefish over the weekend for the annual Under the Big Sky music festival and rodeo.

Legals for July, 17 2022

State lotteries increasingly cede control to huge firms

In three states, the day-to-day management of state lotteries comes from multinational corporations, which reap millions of dollars in profits from state-approved gambling.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Events happening for businesses

Montana SBDC regional director honored for excellence

SBDC Regional Director Lorene Hintz was named the 2022 Montana “State Star,” a national honor that recognizes outstanding performers from SBDCs around the country.

UM group offers midyear economic update in 7 Montana cities

The Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana will travel to seven Montana cities at the beginning of August to present a midyear assessment of the outlook for the U.S. and Montana economy.

Alice Elizabeth Rufenach (Mower), 94

Alice Elizabeth Rufenach (Mower), 94

Late photographer Kurt Markus captured models and cowboys

Kurt Markus died on June 12 at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, after a battle with Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia. He was 75.

The next battleground for CI-121

We would like to apologize to the hundreds of thousands of Montana homeowners we have let down.

Letters to the editor July 17

Letters to the editor July 17

Raeann "Rae-Rae" Lacey Reinhardt, 23

Rae-Rae Reinhardt, 23, was welcomed into eternal life in heaven on June 28, 2022.

Law roundup: Put that in your pipe and smoke it

A caller thought he was watching a man sitting on a park bench doing drugs. The caller, who lived nearby, told the Kalispell Police Department that the man likely was smoking meth or crack from a pipe. Adding to his suspicion, the man sat beside a small pill bottle. He told dispatchers that he had taken photos of the alleged drug use.

Retail sales up 1% in June, easing fears of a recession

U.S. retail sales rose 1% in June, from a revised decline of 0.1 % in May, the Commerce Department said Friday.

Tips for a new 'Code of the West'

It's not always easy living in the rural West, with customs so entrenched that everybody takes them for granted. What makes it hard for the newest newcomers is that they’re caught up in a mysterious culture.

Tom Barranger, 79

Tom Barranger, 79, passed away May 22, 2022, surrounded by his son, daughter and wife of 50 years.

Whitefish Mountain Resort sees progress on new chairlift installation

Forms were set and workers poured concrete that will become the top terminal of the new Chair 4 that is planned to open for the 2022-23 winter season.

Human nature hunts for sweet life

A couple of weeks after I moved here last fall, a Kalispell resident buttonholed me at an event to ask if people had been kind to me, as a newcomer to the valley.

Long lines are back at US food banks as inflation hits high

Long lines are back at outside food banks around the U.S. as working Americans overwhelmed by inflation increasingly seek handouts to feed their families. Many people are coming for the first time amid the skyrocketing grocery and gas prices.

Day of events celebrate new Parkline Trail

Events run throughout the day culminating in a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony and remarks from dignitaries at 5:30 p.m. at the Parkline Linear Park Plaza between Main Street and First Avenue north of Depot Park.

Future is bright along the Parkline Trail

A vision 10 years in the making will finally be realized with the grand opening of Kalispell’s Parkline Trail on Thursday, July 21.

Kids want to put Montana on trial for unhealthy climate policies

For her birthday every October, Grace Gibson-Snyder and her family explore the Lamar Valley just inside the northern border of Yellowstone National Park.

Denise Rose (Marquart) Schlegel, 53

Denise Rose (Marquart) Schlegel

OPINION: Who is Montana's largest socialist?

The head of the Montana Republican Party, a car salesman, has called Western District Congressional candidate Monica Tranel, who has worked in the private sector most of her life, a socialist.

OPINION: Legislators should leave farm and ranch operations out of the crosshairs

With the primary elections in the rearview mirror, most of us have a good idea who’ll represent us in the Montana Legislature come January. A new Legislature means new ideas and, of course, recycled ideas from past sessions.

Flathead Lake cherry harvest ‘just around the corner’

Flathead Lake Cherry Growers are expecting an abundant harvest this summer.

Leonard Boles, 92

Leonard Boles, 92

Leonard Boles, 92

Linda F. (Beck) Holliday, 72

Linda F. (Beck) Holliday, 72

Stocks end higher on Wall Street, still down for the week

Stocks closed higher Wall Street Friday following some encouraging economic data on consumer sentiment and inflation expectations. The gains weren't enough to pull major indexes out of the red for the week, however, following worrisome reports on high prices facing consumers and businesses.

Wholesale inflation in June surged 11.3% from a year ago

The U.S. producer price index — which measures inflation before it hits consumers — rose at the fastest pace since hitting a record 11.6% in March.

AA Lakers clip Billings, 16-8

BILLINGS — The AA Lakers found some offense against the Billings Royals after back to back shutouts in a 16-8 win on Saturday.

Glacier bridge construction projects start up

Construction on two bridges in Glacier National Park begins next week.

Montana State researchers collaborate to send microbe to space to test as astronaut food

On July 11, a group of small bioreactors arrived at the International Space Station aboard a SpaceX rocket to test how well the Yellowstone microbe can be grown in an environment similar to what would be experienced during long-duration space travel.

Biden intervenes in railroad contract fight to block strike

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — President Joe Biden on Friday blocked a freight railroad strike for at least 60 days by naming a board of arbitrators to intervene in the contract dispute, averting action that could have disrupted all kinds of shipments.

Essex residents report slight improvement in phone service

Residents of Essex say their CenturyLink telephone service has improved since a May 15 Daily Inter Lake article highlighted the community’s problems with the telecommunications company, but their troubles are far from resolved.

Billings blanks AA Lakers

BILLINGS — The Billings Royals went ahead early to beat the Kalispell AA Lakers 5-0 in the first game of a twin bill on Friday.

Officials suggest pipeline company hid problems after spill

U.S. prosecutors suspect a Wyoming company of potentially concealing problems with a pipeline that broke in 2015 and spilled tens of thousands of gallons of crude into the Yellowstone River. The spill fouled the water supply of Glendive, Montana and took months to clean up.

Gov. Gianforte launches Montana housing advisory council

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte issued an executive order Thursday creating a “housing advisory council” tasked with suggesting ways for the state “to increase the supply of affordable, attainable workforce housing.”

US solicits help as it defines old growth and mature forests

U.S. officials on Thursday solicited outside help as they craft definitions of old growth and mature forests under an executive order from President Joe Biden.

Hybrid school academy expands

The school opened in January 2021 and has since added Minnesota and Pennsylvania locations.

Under the Big Sky gives local talent a chance to shine

Headed back to stage at Under the Big Sky this weekend, the Susan O’Dea and Nick Spear are ready to try out new work with the backing of their band, odes written to a reopening world.

Law roundup: Marauding chickens leaves neighbor clucking

A flock of mischievous chickens left a Kalispell area man with more than just ruffled feathers. He told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office that the rogue poultry routinely came onto his land from a neighbor’s property and damaged his belongings. He was “at the end of his rope” and asked for help from deputies.

Legals for July, 15 2022

Dems want $1 billion of Montana’s budget surplus spent on housing, childcare and mental health

Legislative Democrats said Wednesday they want to spend Montana’s sizable budget surplus on a billion-dollar effort to help residents who are struggling with the cost of housing, property taxes, childcare and mental health services.

Save Farmland nonprofit partners with Under the Big Sky Festival

The five-year partnership makes Save Farmland the official nonprofit of the event, working closely with festival leadership to create awareness and money-raising opportunities for its programs through music and arts.

Former Oath Keeper says conversation at Eureka grocery store was the ‘last straw’

Jason Van Tatenhove’s involvement with the far-right paramilitary group the Oath Keepers started and ended in Montana.

Lakers A sweeps Libby

Timmy Glanville and Joey Thatcher each drove in a pair and scored twice, and the Kalispell A Lakers downed Libby 10-1 to complete a sweep of their Legion baseball Thursday at Griffin Field.

Mustangs end Riders’ streak at 3

The Glacier Range Riders were a couple wall-scrapers from a four-game winning streak, but their latest rally fell short in a 10-9 loss to the Billings Mustangs Thursday at Flathead Field.

Ivana Trump, first wife of former president, dies at 73

Ivana Trump, who formed half of a publicity power couple in the 1980s as the first wife of former President Donald Trump and mother of his oldest children, has died in New York City, her family announced Thursday. She was 73.

Top off your week at Arts in the Park

The Hockaday Museum of Art presents the 52nd annual Arts in the Park, one of the longest-running arts and music festivals in the West, July 15 to 17, in historic Depot Park.

ImagineIF Kalispell branch sees decrease in police calls with security upgrades

Illegal activity, like drug use and sex, has plagued the second floor of the ImagineIF Library in Kalispell for months, but officials say the problem is abating thanks to new security measures.

Insurance may not cover a hail damaged roof

When it comes to insuring your home it is important to know there is a significant difference between “Replacement Cost” and “Actual Cash Value” coverage. We’ll get to that shortly.

History comes alive this weekend at Miracle of America Museum

On any given day, the exhibits in Polson’s Miracle of America Museum tell the history of America and its peoples.

Legals for July, 14 2022

Flathead Valley Community Band returns to live performance

The Flathead Valley Community Band (FVCB) presents “An Evening in the Park” concert Wednesday July 20, in Marantette Park, Columbia Falls.

Kalispell school board takes look at preliminary budget

The Kalispell Public Schools board got a first look at the preliminary budget for the 2022-23 school year on Tuesday.

How much longer will supply chains stress Montana?

The way many of us learn about how the things we own work is when they stop working.

Letters to the editor July 14

Letters to the editor July 14

Meeting gives overview of CWD management efforts in Libby

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is hosting an informational meeting on chronic wasting disease in Libby.

Ninepipes Museum hosts event in honor of founders

Members of the community and supporters are invited to attend a special event at the Ninepipes Museum in Charlo from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 17, to celebrate a special achievement with founders Bud and Laurel Cheff.

Democrats host outdoor concert

The Flathead Democrats and Flathead Democratic Women are hosting Blue Jam On The Bluff, Sunday, Aug. 14.

Live music thrives at Montana Music Event

For the last six years, North Valley Music School has hosted the Montana Music Event, a fundraiser for vital music education, programming for students of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels.

ATP spotlights Broadway stars and hopefuls

Alpine Theatre Project presents The Broadway Concert Series featuring 10 Broadway veterans, 60 Broadway hopefuls, and two different showstopping concerts rotating nightly from July 26 to July 30 at 8 p.m. at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center, 127 Spokane Ave.

Tunnel Vision Project paints Lone Pine tunnel

KALICO Art Center and Rails to Trails have initiated Phase 3 of their Tunnel Vision Project.

Law Roundup: Neighbors give visiting Californian a not-so-warm welcome

A California man in a short term rental in the West Glacier area apparently made the mistake of revealing his home state to his neighbors. They had begun harassing him, both for being from the Golden State and because they didn’t like the idea of having a short term rental unit next door, he told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. Now they were accusing him of having too many people at the rental.

Prosecutors: Shotgun-toting man made death threats

Deputies with the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office arrested Aaron Douglas Glenn Kupka, 36, after responding to a report of a confrontation involving guns about 1:33 a.m., July 9.

Local author finds spicy niche in culinary cozy series

It’s Christmas in July with Leslie Budewitz’s new culinary cozy mystery, “Peppermint Barked” to be released July 19.

Carol Jean 'Jeannie' (Blihovde) LeDoux, 79

Carol Jean “Jeannie” (Blihovde) LeDoux, 79, of Kila, passed away on July 10, 2022, after a three-year battle with cancer.

Flathead National Forest lost Facebook privileges during avalanche season

Flathead National Forest was without its main portal for pushing safety information to the public for six months at the beginning of 2022 after losing its ability to post on Facebook for unspecified reasons.

Range Riders find life late in comeback

Dean Miller hit two homers and Glacier defeated Billings 3-2 in comeback fashion at Flathead Field on Tuesday.

Red Sox rip Loggers, 13-4

A 3-2 Libby lead disappeared in an eight-run outburst by the host Bitterroot Red Sox, who beat the Loggers 13-4 in the first game of an A Legion doubleheader Wednesday.

A Ruthian record for the Royals

It’s been tough being a Kansas City Royals fan, I am not going to lie.

Legion: Twins top Loggers Tuesday

WHITEFISH — Hayden Meehan had three hits and drove in three runs and the Glacier Twins used a pair of big innings to put away Libby in Class A Legion baseball Tuesday, 14-4.

Full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road opens to vehicles

Matching the latest opening on record, the full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park opened to vehicles Wednesday morning for the 2022 summer season.

Linda Kay (Anderson) Miller, 63

Linda was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and a friend to so many.

Marland “Fud” Walden, 92

Marland “Fud” Walden, 92, of Columbia Falls, passed away at Logan Health Whitefish on July 4, 2022.

C-Falls man accused of pharmacy robbery indicted by grand jury

A federal grand jury in late May indicted a Columbia Falls man arrested for allegedly knocking over a local pharmacy on multiple counts in two separate cases.

Legals for July, 13 2022

Application deadline this month for FVCC culinary program

Application deadline this month for FVCC culinary program

Habitat for Humanity holds dedications, groundbreaking this week

The community is invited to celebrate with Habitat for Humanity four Home dedications in Lakeside and Columbia Falls, and a groundbreaking for three new homes in Somers.

NW Montana Fair and Rodeo opens registration for Mutton Bustin'

Registration is open for children for Mutton Bustin’ at this year’s Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo.

Claude ‘Sonny’ Rhodes, 71

Claude “Sonny” Rhodes, 71, passed away Monday, Nov. 8, 2021, at Beaver Dam, Arizona, from a long battle of multi myeloma cancer.

Man accused of waving knife at dog walker charged with assault

A man who allegedly threatened a passerby with a knife after she asked him if he needed help faces an assault with a weapon charge in Flathead County District Court.

Law roundup: Easy riders need to take it easy

Two motorcyclists took matters into their own hands after allegedly getting cut off by a silver car in Somers. Officers with the Kalispell Police Department caught up with the pair on the east side of town after other motorists reported a pair of bikers with “road rage” who were throwing items, brake checking other drivers and challenging people to pull over on U.S. 93.

KALICO closing studio while undergoing restructuring

The art center opened its doors in downtown Kalispell in January 2020.

Bigfork church hosts presentation on Trust in Education

As part of its “Did You Know” monthly series, the Bigfork United Methodist church at 750 Electric Ave., presents Budd MacKenzie of Trust in Education, at 7 p.m. Monday, July 18.

Museum of Mountain Flying program July 18

Northwest Montana Posse of Westerners history organization on Monday, July 18 presents the program “A Return to the Big Skies” by the Museum of Mountain Flying of Missoula, home of Montana’s most famous airplane — “Miss Montana.”

FVCC registration begins for fall semester

Registration is now open for Flathead Valley Community College’s fall semester.

Planing board considers major project on KM Ranch Road

The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday will consider a proposal for about 155 acres at the south end of KM Ranch Road that could result in a housing and commercial project.

Recounts confirm Bukacek as winner of PSC primary

Ann Bukacek is still the Republican winner in the Montana Public Service Commission District No. 5 primary, according to recounts in three of four counties.

White House: To help salmon, dams may need to be removed

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) — The Biden administration on Tuesday released two reports arguing that removing dams on the lower Snake River may be needed to restore salmon runs to historic levels, and that replacing the energy created by the dams is possible but will cost $11 billion to $19 billion.

Letters to the editor July 12

Letters to the editor July 12

Change could allow TIF funds to be used for workforce housing

Kalispell uses TIF funds within the boundaries of both plans as part of the “overall strategy to meet its needs of promoting economic development, improving area employment opportunities, improving area housing opportunities, and expanding the community’s tax base.”

Fearful for the future of our country

For the past several weeks I have been contemplating an opinion piece that would have begun with “I am ashamed of my country.”

Holmquist remains winner after election recount

After a recount, Holmquist beat Fallon by 40 votes total, 7,520 to 7,480.

Man arrested after standoff pleads guilty to theft charge

Aaron Martin McGarry, 35, pleaded guilty to theft in Flathead County District Court on July 8. As part of the agreement, prosecutors will recommend he spend three years in the Montana State Prison. Judge Robert Allison set sentencing for Sept. 1.

Legion: Senators again sweep AA Lakers

HELENA — It’s fair to say Helena has one hot Legion team, after the Senators swept a second AA doubleheader from the Kalispell Lakers Monday, running their win streak to 17 games.

Legals for July, 12 2022

The right to life v. the right to privacy

In a recent letter to the editor (Montanan’s constitutional right to privacy worth fighting for, July 10) my Democrat opponent for Senate District 4 (Kalispell), tries to make the argument that the right of privacy trumps the right to life.

Law roundup: Black bear hits the honeypot

A black bear may have hit the honeypot when a woman allegedly saw it trying to get into the neighbor’s yard where a compost bin was located. Columbia Falls Police Department received a second call

Pioneer League: Riders top Mustangs, snap skid

Ben McConnell homered to lead off the game, Brody Wofford followed with a two-run shot and the Glacier Range Riders snapped their six-game losing skid Monday, beating Billings 7-1 at Flathead Field.

Legion: Twins fall in Sapa-Johnsrud final

WHITEFISH — The Glacier Twins’ bats went silent in the Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial championship game, in an 8-0 loss to the Coeur d’Alene Lumbermen Sunday night.

CSKT make pitch to bring Big Medicine back home to bison range

Since his death in 1959, Big Medicine has been housed at the Montana State Historical Society in Helena. The display is right across from the archives on the second floor, and he remains one of the most popular attractions for Native and non-Natives alike.

Biden celebration of new gun law clouded by latest shooting

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden welcomed a crowd to the White House lawn Monday to showcase a new law meant to reduce gun violence, celebrating "real progress" after years of inaction. But he also lamented the country remains "awash in weapons of war" — with the 16-day-old law already overshadowed by yet another horrific mass shooting.

Fed's Bullard: Solid US economy can handle rising rates

St. Louis Federal Reserve president James Bullard says last week’s jobs report points to a solid U.S. economy with little sign of a recession on the horizon and one that can withstand higher interest rates.

AA Lakers drop pair to Senators

HELENA — The Helena Senators blew open a tight game with eight runs in the fifth inning Sunday, and downed the Kalispell AA Lakers 11-1 on the way to a sweep of their American Legion doubleheader.

US employers add a solid 372,000 jobs in sign of resilience

The unemployment rate remained at 3.6% for a fourth straight month, the government said Friday, matching a near-50-year low that was reached before the pandemic struck in early 2020.

Canadian bank expects short-lived recession

A report issued Thursday by the Royal Bank of Canada says the country is headed towards a recession in 2023, but it will be short-lived and not as severe as prior downturns.

Legion: Mariners win Harp Memorial title

Dawson DuMont drove in two runs and Xavier Fisher threw a four-hitter to lead Mission Valley over the Bozeman Bucks 8-0 to win the John R. Harp Memorial legion tournament Sunday.

Park outdoors: Ford expands recall for possible engine fires

The company also announced Friday that it’s recalling another 100,000 SUVs in the U.S. for a different problem that also causes engine fires.

Jeremy Belleville, 35

On June 30, 2022, Jeremy Belleville passed away in Billings. He was 35 years old.

Glacier Park roads leader enjoys challenges of plowing Sun Road

For the past 12 years, Christian Tranel has been a part of the crew that battles the snow, rocks and avalanches each spring to make Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park passable for millions of visitors.

Pioneer League: PaddleHeads outslug Riders

MISSOULA — The Glacier Range Riders exploded for 14 runs Sunday afternoon, but were trumped again by the Missoula Paddleheads, who used a 15-run inning to claim a 22-14 Pioneer League win.

Miller’s Time: 2019 Red Sox draftee chasing baseball drive

When the Boston Red Sox released Dean Miller after 83 minor league games, they probably figured they’d seen enough of the 6-foot-3, 235-pound outfielder to make such a judgment. Miller wasn’t so sure.

Law roundup: Literate thief looks for a good read

Papers and books were reportedly missing from a Bigfork residence and were reported stolen to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Legals for July, 11 2022

Letters to the editor July 11

Letters to the editor July 11

Kalispell Council examines grant request

Morning Star Community and Green Acres Cooperative are requesting the city assist in their submission of Community Development Block Grant public facilities and housing grants for the purpose of connecting to the city’s wastewater system.

Kenneth L. Sharpe

Kenneth L. Sharpe passed suddenly at home on Dec. 5, 2021.

George Leonard Reksten, 98

George Leonard Reksten, of Polson, died peacefully on June 29, 2022, of natural causes.

Nonprofits selected for foundation’s Great Fish

The Great Fish Community Challenge is a six-week charitable giving campaign in which donors can choose to give to multiple nonprofit organizations with a single transaction.

Nerma D. Barbo, 88

Nerma D. Barbo was born at the Talbot Mansion in Columbia Falls to Arvilla and Charles (Elwin) Reed on Aug. 27, 1933, where they were employed as caretakers.

Library trustees, commissioners aren’t upholding their fiduciary duty

Over the last six month, the ImagineIF Libraries board has left a pile of money on the table — about $76,000 by our calculations. Not exactly what one would expect from a board trusted with ensuring the success of a critical public entity.

In it for the long haul — FVCC continues to meet workforce needs through trucking program

When Flathead Valley Community College commercial driver’s license program instructor Bob Arrabito got into trucking he was in it for the long haul. “Years, ago I had a construction company and a trucking company in Reno. I came up here as a contractor,” he said.

A tale of too many cities

We recently returned from our niece’s wedding in Florida and, though the events were over-the-top beautiful and the fun factor off the charts, getting there and home again was a tad harrowing.

Tours showcase environmental benefits of rain gardens

In order to showcase the benefits of rain gardens, a walking tour of five gardens is being held on Thursday, July 14.

This grizzly family comes with paparazzi

My neighbor is famous.

Elisha Gene Garner, 85

Elisha Gene Garner, 85, passed away peacefully on Feb. 25, 2022, at home with family by his side — his last breath here and first breath in heaven.

Alan James Burland, 72

Alan James Burland, 72, of Ronan, passed away Saturday, July 2, 2022, of natural causes.

PSC should represent the public

The Montana Public Service Commission is again in the news – and as usual, it is not good for Montana ratepayers.

Montanan’s constitutional right to privacy worth fighting for

Medical access in Montana is limited, especially in rural parts of the state and on reservations.

Jack L. Lingle, 89

Jack Lee Lingle was born on Nov. 10, 1932, to Barbara Lorene and Samual Lee Lingle in Kalispell.

Law roundup: Harried homeowners go ballistic on worker

Things escalated at a Kalispell job site when harried homeowners allegedly began screaming at him about other people who didn’t show up. When he tried to leave they blocked his van.

Sunshine Factory home offers respite for families seeking hospital care

The home offers respite care for families in a variety of ways. The facility is a three-story home with a full kitchen, living room, bedrooms and a village-themed playroom with a toy camper.

Patricia ‘Patti’ Wickham Hellman

Patricia “Patti” Wickham Hellman passed away on May 31, 2022 of natural causes.

A year after protests, Cuba struggles to emerge from crisis

Streets and public squares filled with protesters on July 11 and 12, 2021, some answering social media appeals, others joining spontaneously to express frustration with shortages, long lines and a lack of political options.

A robust June jobs report clouds outlook for US economy

A strong hiring report for June has assuaged fears that the U.S. economy might be on the cusp of a recession — and highlighted the resilience of the nation's job market.

James W. Fleming, 85

James W. Fleming, 85, passed away from heart failure and met his loved ones in heaven on July 3, 2022.

Montana clinics that provide abortions preemptively restrict pill access for out-of-state patients

MISSOULA — The four states bordering Montana have “trigger laws” in effect or pending now that the U.S. Supreme Court has ended federal protections for abortion, making conservative Big Sky Country an unlikely haven for women seeking to end their pregnancies.

Calvin Percy Jorgensen, 95

At the age of 95, Calvin Percy Jorgensen passed away on his daughter Nancy’s birthday — July 4, 2022.

Legals for July, 10 2022

Sliters wins state employer award

The Department of Labor and Industry said the Montana State Employers’ Council gives out their annual Employers of Choice awards in three different categories based on the number of employees.

Flathead Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

A Lakers 1-2, Mariners 4-0 at Harp Memorial tourney

A hit batter with the bases loaded and a wild pitch scored the tying and go-ahead runs for the Mead Panthers Saturday, in a 4-3 win over the Kalispell A Lakers at the Harp Memorial Legion tournament.

Twins down N. Idaho 12-5 at Sapa-Johnsrud

WHITEFISH — Mason Peters had two hits and scored three times, and the Glacier Twins took advantage of some wild North Idaho pitching to outscore the Lakers 12-5 at the Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial Legion tournament Friday.

PaddleHeads snuff Riders’ rally in 8-5 win Friday

MISSOULA — Dean Miller had two hits and seventh-inning homer but the Glacier Range Riders fell 8-5 to the Missoula PaddleHeads on Friday.

Kris Hansen, ex-chief deputy attorney general, dies at 52

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Kris Hansen, who recently departed the No. 2 post at Montana Attorney General's Office, has died at age 52, according to state officials.

EPA: No decision made on CFAC cleanup

Officials from the Environmental Protection Agency last week said they haven’t made a decision on the best way to clean up the defunct Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. plant.

Man pleads not guilty to charges linked to Whitefish shooting

Wilson Dane Huyser, 33, entered the plea before Judge Heidi Ulbricht during his arraignment in Flathead County District Court.

MDT revokes permit for proposed alpine coaster development

The Montana Department of Transportation has nixed a highway approach permit for a proposed — and neighbor opposed — development on U.S. 93 near Lakeside featuring an alpine coaster.

Trump-backed GOP group sues Missoula County for ’20 election, despite no evidence of fraud

An election-conspiracy group backed by a Trump-related think-tank is suing the Missoula County elections office over the 2020 election, even after local Republicans found no evidence of fraud.

Man arrested after camping in public park charged with intimidation

Douglas Seward Russell, 71, is being held in the county jail on a $100,285 bond. His arraignment in Flathead County District Court is set for July 28.

Late-inning Missoula surge dooms Riders Thursday

On Thursday the late innings got away from the Glacier Range Riders, as Missoula scored 11 runs from the sixth inning on, in a 12-4 Pioneer League victory at Flathead Field.

Schlegel throws complete game for Lakers A in loss to Bucks

Kalispell’s Lakers A team opened the John R. Harp Tournament with a 5-0 loss to the Bozeman Bucks at Griffin Field on Friday.

Bears euthanized after frequenting area residential properties

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks bear management specialists are busy responding to reports of bears accessing unsecured food attractants on residential properties across northwest Montana.

Montana leaders remember former Chief Deputy Attorney General, legislator Kris Hansen

Political leaders in Montana expressed condolences Friday for the loss of former chief deputy Attorney General and state legislator Kris Hansen.

Severe storm drops damaging hail on Kalispell

A severe thunderstorm ripped across parts of the Flathead Valley on Thursday evening, dropping lime-sized hail on some locations.

Bigfork Rodeo dusts up another performance

BIGFORK –– The third night of the Bigfork Summer ProRodeo got underway Thursday with a few more bull riders looking for qualified rides and close races in barrel racing and team roping.

Lakers AA split with Chargers

Grady Drish drove in three runs, Gage Brink hit a big triple, and the Kalispell Lakers downed Great Falls 7-5 to earn a split of their AA Legion baseball doubleheader Wednesday.

7-run first carries Missoula past Range Riders on Wednesday

Missoula set the tone with a 7-run first inning, and the PaddleHeads went on to rout the Glacier Range Riders 12-5 in Pioneer League baseball Wednesday evening.

Loggers win opener at Sapa-Johnsrud

WHITEFISH — Aydan Willamson’s two-run single broke a 6-6 tie, and helped the Libby Loggers take a 10-9 win over the North Idaho Lakers at the Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial tournament Thursday.

Troy graduate honored for hostage rescue in Africa

They used to call him “Gump” but now they can call him an American hero.

Kalispell woman sentenced on federal drug charge

A federal judge sentenced a Kalispell woman to five years behind bars on July 6 for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

Law roundup: Something’s rotten in Kalispell

Law roundup: Something’s rotten in Kalispell

Kootenai Forest logging project draws lawsuit

A pair of conservation groups are suing the U.S. Forest Service over its approval of a logging project that they say would be detrimental to the grizzly bear population on the Montana-Canada border.

Legals for July, 8 2022

Big Columbia Falls housing project headed to planning board

A large subdivision planned in Columbia Falls is set to go before the city planning board next week.

Historic aircraft touch down at Glacier Park International Airport

For Frank Shelt, a retired U.S. Air Force captain, getting an up close look at a B-25J Mitchell gave him an appreciation of the aviators that came before him.

Residential project on Three Mile Drive gets OK

The property is currently vacant but was annexed into the city in 2004 with a PUD overlay that provided for 66 single-family and townhome lots. Although some infrastructure was put in place, the property was not developed.

Full length of Sun Road opens to cyclists, hikers this weekend

For the first time this summer, Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road will be open in its entirety to hikers and bikers this weekend.

Glacier Park visitation rebounds in May

Glacier National Park visitors seemed to be taking advantage of the final days before the summer reservation system went into effect as the park saw its third busiest May ever in 2022.

Eureka man accused of killing father arrested in LA

A Eureka man accused of killing his father on Memorial Day is in custody in Los Angeles County.

Northern pike threatening two popular fisheries

Recent surveys found growing populations of illegally introduced northern pike in Shady Lane Pond in Evergreen and Lake Mary Ronan near Dayton, creating harmful scenarios for recreational fishing opportunities in both waterbodies.

One scandal too many: British PM Boris Johnson resigns

LONDON (AP) — Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced his resignation Thursday after droves of top government officials quit over the latest scandal to engulf him, marking an end to three tumultuous years in which he tried to bluster his way through one ethical lapse after another.

Officials ID man killed in Whitefish motorcycle crash

The Flathead County Sheriff's Office has identified a 22-year-old man who died in a motorcycle crash near Whitefish on June 30.

Coram man arrested for criminal endangerment entangled in family dispute

Joseph Thomas Oliver, 36, entered the plea before Judge Dan Wilson in Flathead County District Court on June 30.

Nadine (Lorentzen) Wynne, 83

Nadine Wynne was born Jan. 9, 1939, to Tom and Veryl Lorentzen in Hamilton, Montana. She was the fourth of five children.

Texas artist with Flathead roots featured at Slow Burn Records

Slow Burn Records, Whitefish's new record store, is hosting Americana artist Sarah Johnson for a July residency.

Law roundup: Man hangs up his hat in portable toilet

A man reportedly took up sleeping quarters in a portable toilet in Columbia Falls. When someone asked him to leave, he got out, picked up his bags, went back inside the toilet facility, and locked the door.

WTC offers summer theater camps

Enrollment is now open for Whitefish Theatre Company’s Summer Performance Camps.

Legion: Loggers walk way to doubleheader sweep of Bucs

LIBBY — Aiden Rose drew a bases-loaded walk with two out in the bottom of the seventh, pushing in Dylan Buckner with the winning run in Libby’s 9-8 Legion baseball victory over the Bitterroot Bucs late Tuesday.

Jerry Albert Munson, 91

Jerry Albert Munson, 91, of Columbia Falls, passed away Dec. 1, 2021.

Blackfeet Tribe to use dogs to sniff out disease and contaminants

Kenneth Cook used a mallet and a chisel to crack into a pig’s skull in the gravel driveway outside his home on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in northwestern Montana.

Kalispell approves emergency water restrictions ordinance

The ordinance provides the city manager the authority to implement water restrictions, if necessary, based upon water usage levels and availability of water at city facilities. As an emergency ordinance, it would expire in 90 days.

PaddleHeads pin Tuesday loss on Riders

Nick Gatewood’s first-inning two-run single pushed Missoula out of gates fast, and the PaddleHeads downed the Glacier Range Riders 6-3 in a Pioneer League baseball game Tuesday at Flathead Field.

Underscore Art gallery announces live artist podcast

Underscore Art & Jewelry in Whitefish is now hosting its own live podcast.

Glacier Symphony’s Night at Rebecca Farm goes to the movies

The Glacier Symphony’s popular Symphony Night at Rebecca Farm takes place Friday and Saturday, July 8 and 9.

Legion: AA Lakers split with Chargers

Grady Drish drove in three runs, Gage Brink hit a big triple, and the Kalispell Lakers downed Great Falls 7-5 to earn a split of their AA Legion baseball doubleheader Wednesday.

Man accused of throwing knife at kids pleads not guilty

Timothy Wayne Wilde, 58, entered the plea during his June 30 arraignment before Judge Heidi Ulbricht in Flathead County District Court.

Woman hospitalized after drunk man allegedly fires gun in house

George Paul Herne, 19, faces a single felony count of criminal endangerment after allegedly firing off a round in a Bison Drive home in the early morning of July 4.

Cawdrey Gallery features two artists at upcoming events

Cawdrey Gallery in Whitefish is hosting an artist reception for award-winning cowboy artist Jason Rich from 5 to 7 p.m. July 12.

Bigfork Summer Playhouse shows ‘The Full Monty’

Bigfork Summer Playhouse opened its boisterous musical, “The Full Monty,”earlier this week and the show will be running throughout the Playhouse’s remaining summer season.

Port Polson Players play ball in ‘Home Games’

The Port Polson Players’ 47th summer season continues with the romantic baseball comedy, “Home Games.”

Legals for July, 7 2022

Longtime Kalispell artist shares her ‘Places & Memories’

Phillips Studio & Gallery is hosting a special exhibition of paintings by Kalispell artist Marsha Davis.

State Library Commission votes down proposed prism logo

Commissioners for the Montana State Library voted Tuesday to reject a redesigned logo for the agency, weeks after some commissioners raised concerns that the logo’s color scheme resembled an LGBTQ Pride flag.

Delicious kokanee

For those of us that like to fish or eat fresh fish, July is the ideal time in Northwest Montana to enjoy a fish fry of delicious kokanee salmon.

Montana Secretary of State receives recount request for PSC District 5

Montana Public Service Commission candidate Derek Skees requested a recount in the District 5 GOP primary after earning 11,146 votes to winner Ann Bukacek’s 11,233, according to the Montana Secretary of State’s Office.

New library board trustee saddened by reaction to appointment

ImagineIF’s newest trustee said she is saddened by the reaction to her appointment, but remains committed to supporting the library system and reaching out to critics.

Thale Ileen Chubb-Balding, 86

Born in Wolf Point, Montana, November 14th 1935, Thale Ileen Chubb-Balding went to the Lord on June 30, 2022, at the age of 86.

Brenda “Brandy” Lee Rhodes, 62

Brenda “Brandy” Lee Rhodes of Whitefish died Sunday, June 26, 2022, from multiple health complications.

Ozzy's truck: Restoration project raises suicide prevention awareness

Jeffrey “Ozzy” Otzwirk was raised in Haugan and graduated from St. Regis High School in 1995.

Researchers discuss mine risks to salmon rivers

Recently, a group of 23 science and policy experts from the U.S. and Canada published a review of mining risks to watersheds ranging from Montana to British Columbia and Alaska.

Law roundup: Fireworks set off people’s nerves

A man was allegedly very upset about a woman lighting fireworks in the area of his house and told the Columbia Falls Police Department he confronted her and ran over the fireworks, but he did not mention if they damaged his vehicle.

Legals for July, 6 2022

Regier submits bill aimed at ‘anti-Christian bigotry’ in real estate industry

Months after an ethics complaint was filed against realtor and Pastor Brandon Huber for alleged anti-LGBTQ hate speech, legislators drafted a bill named in his honor to “combat anti-Christian bigotry in the real estate industry,” a press release from Huber’s attorney read Thursday.

Loggers walk off Bucs in opener

LIBBY — The Libby Loggers built a 5-0 lead, lost it, then downed the Bitterroot Bucs 6-5 when Landon Haddock’s eighth-inning, bases-loaded grounder was misplayed for an error Tuesday.

Highway Patrol, Department of Labor and Industry to investigate death of county employee

A longtime Flathead County Solid Waste District employee died after a July 2 vehicle accident on Disposal Road left him with grievous injuries.

PHOTOS: Crews clear snow from top of Going to the Sun Road

Crews continue to clear snow from the Logan Pass area as park officials say the full Going to the Road will not open until July 13 at the earliest.

76 million-year-old dinosaur skeleton to be auctioned in NYC

NEW YORK (AP) — The fossilized skeleton of a T. rex relative that roamed the earth about 76 million years ago will be auctioned in New York this month, Sotheby's announced Tuesday.

Judge hands down 20-year prison sentence in sexual abuse case

A Kalispell man who sexually abused two underage relatives over the course of several years was sentenced to 20 years in the Montana State Prison on July 1.

Legals for July, 5 2022

Senior citizen finds his artistic side

For Jim Rahn, Saturdays are for art. Just a few years ago, Rahn had never tried his hand at painting. But one of his neighbors convinced him to try out an art class held at the Elms senior apartments where he lives.

Letters to the editor July 5

Letters to the editor July 5

Former assisted living facility worker accused of rape takes plea deal

A former assisted living facility employee accused of raping a resident in 2021 pleaded guilty to a single count of sexual intercourse without consent on June 29.

Law roundup: Employee provided housing trashes property

An ex-employee, who was allegedly given housing, destroyed some property so an individual told the Kalispell Police Department they wanted to press charges.

U.S. 93 can’t safely handle Lakeside development

I vigorously oppose granting highway access to the proposed amusement area at 6808 U.S. 93 north of Lakeside because it is unsafe and will add to an already congested area.

Twins rout Calgary Bucks in four innings

The Glacier Twins cruised to a 13-1 victory over the Calgary Bucks in four innings at the Keith Sell Legion baseball tournament on Sunday.

Letters to the editor July 4

Letters to the editor July 4

Longtime conservationist honored with lifetime achievement award

If you have one takeaway from reading her profile, Kathy Ross wants it to be that she has native plants in her garden. You don’t win a Conservation Lifetime Achievement Award without an airtight rep in the environmental community and a biodiverse garden goes a long way to maintaining that reputation.

Legals for July, 4 2022

Law roundup: Alleged thief run over in shoplifting spree

About $200 worth of merchandise was reportedly stolen by a group of three who got in a white Dodge Dakota possibly heading on U.S. 93 or Reserve when one of the passengers fell out of the truck, was run over, picked up and put in the truck by the other passenger.

Fourth of July weekend offers a wide range of fun activities around the Flathead

There are plenty of festivities and fun community events planned on and around the Fourth of July weekend. Here’s a look at what’s happening in the Flathead Valley and beyond.

Twins drop two at Keith Sell tourney

The Glacier Twins went 0-2 on Sunday at the Keith Sell Tournament, dropping games to the Great Falls Chargers and Butte Miners.

Home run extravaganza for Range Riders in 6-5 win

The Glacier Range Riders (13-21) got the July monkey off their back in a crucial Sunday evening victory over the Great Falls Voyagers (21-14).

Lakers A drop pair to Red Sox

The Lakers A dropped a pair to the Bitterroot Red Sox Sunday afternoon in Legion baseball action at Griffin Field.

New gym focused on physical, mental wellbeing

A new gym in Whitefish is aimed at helping people take control of their lives physically, mentally and emotionally through high intensity interval training, or HIIT.

Glacier's Native America Speaks program marks 40th year

Dozens of spectators filled the wooden benches in the shadow of Red Eagle Mountain at the Rising Sun picnic area in Glacier National Park on Wednesday evening.

Farmers should support financial tools to fight climate change

Montana U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, the only active farmer in the Senate, identified the problem when he said, “I just came off the worst year ever on my farm. We need to do something on climate change. I think we spent $144 billion this year on disasters and I don’t think that included crop insurance. So we need to do something on climate too.”

Acharya goes back-to-back at July Fourth tournament

Jasi Acharya is now a three-time champion of the Earl Hunt 4th of July Tournament, again topping the women’s field at Whitefish Lake Golf Club on Saturday.

Non-response to Patriot Front is a big tell

“It is clear to us based on the gear that the individuals had with them, the stuff they had in their possession and in the U-Haul with them, along with paperwork that was seized from them, that they came to riot downtown,” said Coeur d’Alene Police Chief Lee White. It’s not every day you see a Pacific Northwest law enforcement official make such a statement. Get used to it. You’ll see something similar again soon, likely many similar things.

Airport expansion to accommodate 20-plus years of growth

A $115 million expansion project underway at Glacier Park International Airport is an indication of the region’s growing population and popularity as a tourist destination.

Letters to the editor July 3

Letters to the editor July 3

Montana AG warns of flood scams

Attorney General Austin Knudsen is encouraging Montanans to take precautions and be aware of scammers looking to take advantage of those beginning to repair their homes and businesses following the state’s recent flooding.

Montana High Court facing important decisions

Immediately following the U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, the Montana Legislature’s majority leadership sent a warning.

Rob Bosley, 66

After a short battle with lung cancer, Rob passed on into his eternal home on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at home surrounded by his family. He was born and raised in Kalispell and was 66 years old at the time of his death.

Slow Burn Records brings vinyl vibes to Whitefish

For several years, Mike and Dyan Colby often traveled from Texas to spend time in Whitefish and enjoy the rhythm of mountain living. Now they own the only record store in town, Slow Burn Records.

Law roundup: Woman brews up ill will with iced tea

Temperatures are rising and one woman allegedly decided to cool off by engaging in criminal mischief when she got into someone’s vehicle and dumped a 32-ounce cup of iced tea in their seat.

Les C. Hart, 78

Les C. Hart, 78, passed away at home on June 22, 2022, in Kalispell. Nancy, his wife of 42 years, was by his side.

A. ‘Doc’ Harkins

A. ‘Doc’ Harkins

For Kalispell's Priscilla, Elvis is always within reach

Priscilla French is not, by any means, “obsessed” with Elvis Presley. She doesn’t have nearly enough memorabilia in her collection of Elvis records, Elvis books, Elvis photographs, and, most importantly, Elvis’ scarves, to be deemed obsessive.

Lucille 'Lucy' Sorensen, 90

Lucille "Lucy" Sorensen, 90, passed away peacefully June 11, 2022.

US testing new fire retardant, critics push other methods

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — U.S. officials are testing a new wildfire retardant after two decades of buying millions of gallons annually from one supplier, but watchdogs say the expensive strategy is overly fixated on aerial attacks at the expense of hiring more fire-line digging ground crews.

Music sets stage for wellness

In my first column, I wrote about how much I loved music, especially live music. That was before I learned how good it is for us.

Two World War II-era aircraft set to land at Glacier International Airport

Two iconic veterans of World War II will fly into Glacier International Airport this week, giving aviation enthusiasts a chance at an up close and personal look at a pair of America’s most celebrated aircraft.

Columbia Falls needs 'sensible' housing development

The recent passing of Bill Shaw brings to mind Bill being the last farmer to put up hay from the 49 acres along River Road east of Columbia Falls.

Flathead Business briefs

Agricultural producers in Montana who have not yet completed their crop acreage reports after planting should make an appointment with their U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency service center before the applicable deadline.

Legals for July, 3 2022

Weed Rodeo helps restore landscape along Flathead River

When one knapweed plant has 30,000 seeds that will remain viable for up to 25 years, ridding the shoreline of them and other noxious weeds is a daunting task.

Carli Lloyd brings CL10 soccer clinic to Columbia Falls

Carli Lloyd held court at Flip Darling Memorial Field in Columbia Falls on Saturday for the first-ever CL10 Soccer Clinic held in Montana.

PHOTOS: U.S. Soccer legend Carli Lloyd holds CL10 Soccer Clinic in Columbia Falls

U.S. Soccer legend Carli Lloyd held her CL10 Soccer Clinic at Flip Darling Memorial Field in Columbia Falls on Saturday, July 2. Lloyd is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, two-time FIFA Women's World Cup champion, two-time FIFA Player of the Year and a four-time Olympian.

Property tax initiative doesn’t get enough signatures

A constitutional initiative to put a cap on residential property taxes will not appear on the November ballot.

ImagineIF Foundation not invited to participate in Great Fish Challenge

Officials with the Whitefish Community Foundation said Thursday they will not be inviting the ImagineIF Foundation to participate in their 2022 Great Fish Challenge. The announcement comes as contention continues to surround the ImagineIF Libraries board.

Lakers AA split twinbill with Elks

The Lethbridge Elks AA beat the Kalispell Lakers AA 3-2 in a walkoff win Friday at Griffin Field in the second game of a Legion baseball twinbill.

Hole-in-one highlights second day of Earl Hunt tourney

WHITEFISH – The beauty of the Flathead Valley was on full display as blue skies and crystal clear views of Big Mountain set the tone for round two of the 86th annual Earl Hunt 4th of July golf tournament Friday at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.

Book challenger tapped to fill library board seat

Flathead County Commissioners voted for Carmen Cuthbertson, who gained notoriety after seeking the removal of a now controversial book from library shelves, to fill the vacant seat on the ImagineIF Board of Trustees on Thursday.

Legion: Libby triples way to win over Rangers

LIBBY — Caden Williams hit two triples, Tripp Zhang hit another and the Libby Loggers held down the Kootenai Valley Rangers for a 5-1 win Thursday at Gehring Field.

Frank Carson Castles, Jr., 75

Frank Carson Castles, Jr.

Whitefish garbage rates go up with new bear-proof cans

Whitefish residents will see their monthly fee for garbage service rise from its current rate of $10.78 to $17.25 along with the arrival of new bear-resistant containers.

Charles ‘Chuck’ Tudor Jr., 77

Charles ‘Chuck’ Tudor Jr., 77

Ayden Conner Erickson, 17

Ayden Conner Erickson, 17

Blackfeet awarded $50k to restore rodeo arena

The Blackfeet Nation, the Chippewa Cree (Rocky Boy’s), and the Little Shell Chippewa Tribe will share $118,957 in Tribal Tourism Grants, the Montana Department of Revenue announced Thursday.

Michael Edwin La Sorte, 76

Michael Edwin La Sorte died peacefully in his sleep at home in Kalispell, on June 16, 2022, of congestive heart failure.

Fireworks rules vary in Flathead Valley

Fourth of July holiday revelers are gearing up for celebrations but when it comes to fireworks there are several restrictions which must be observed.

Today's Achievers, Tomorrow's Leaders: Racing toward her goals

When Julia Martin sets her sights on a goal, she achieves it through diligence and a positive attitude

Legion: Mariners sweep A Mavericks

MISSOULA — Dawson DuMont went 5-for-5, including a tie-breaking two-run double in the ninth inning of the second game, to help Mission Valley sweep a Class A Legion doubleheader from Missoula Wednesday.

Red, white and boom: Inflation isn't deterring local fireworks sales

Fireworks seem to remain a necessary part of Montana’s Independence Day festivities as many local vendors haven’t seen sales drop despite rising prices caused by inflation.

Legals for July, 1 2022