Ellington

Canada to temporarily decriminalize certain drugs in British Columbia

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — Canadians in the Pacific coast province of British Columbia who possess up to 2.5 grams of illicit drugs for personal use will not be arrested or charged starting early next year as part of the province's request for an exemption from Canada's drug laws following a record number of overdose deaths.

Billings officer wounded, man dead after shooting

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A police officer was injured and a man was shot and killed during an exchange of gunfire in a Billings alley, police said Tuesday.

C-Falls police arrest 14-year-old after he allegedly threatened junior high school

A 14-year-old is in police custody after allegedly making threats against the Columbia Falls Junior High School and student body, authorities say.

Group sues U.S. Fish and Wildlife for not protecting white bark pine

The Center for Biological Diversity has launched a lawsuit against the United States Fish and Wildlife Services for not listing 11 critically at-risk species under the Endangered Species Act, including the white bark pine tree found in Montana.

Uvalde grieves, says goodbyes at visitations, funerals

UVALDE, Texas (AP) — It should have been the first day of a joyous week for Robb Elementary School students — the start of summer break. Instead, the first two of 19 children slain inside a classroom were being remembered at funeral visitations.

Stakeholders work to spread news about new voter registration deadline

Montanans must now register to vote for the June primaries by 12 p.m. on June 6, the day before the primary, following a Supreme Court ruling that struck down a challenge to a law ending Election-Day voter registration.

Stillwater senior designs her future in fashion

Anna Hudson graduates Friday with the Class of 2022 at Stillwater Christian School. She is looking optimistically toward the future as she prepares to leave in August for Manhattan to study fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Legals for May, 31 2022

Letters to the editor May 31

Letters to the editor May 31

Whitefish city budget calls for decrease in property taxes

The total proposed budget for fiscal year 2023 is $50.9 million compared with last year’s approved budget of $49.8 million.

Range Riders pummel Rocky Mountain

Glacier wins final three games of its opening series

Richard 'Rick' Allen Halverson, 71

Richard “Rick” Allen Halverson passed away on Oct. 15, 2021, following a stroke.

Law roundup: Wallet filled with $100 bills found at motel

A motel resident allegedly found a wallet full of $100 bills and was concerned that an employee was trying to keep it instead of handing it over to the proper authorities.

WHS senior sets sights on advocating for others

Part of a trio of Whitefish High School students who approached the Whitefish School Board in the summer of 2020 asking that the district boost the integration of diversity studies in the schools, Emma Trieweiler became part of an advisory committee that made suggestions for improving the district's curriculum.

Flathead Valley’s high school students set to graduate

The high school Class of 2022 will be graduating from six high schools in the valley.

Letters to the editor May 30

Letters to the editor May 30

Legals for May, 30 2022

Lakers A take three games from Spokane squad

Kallis has 6 RBI to lead Lakers A

Outdoor gear vending machine part of business goal to make wilderness adventure accessible

Known as The Wilderness Edge, the facility is essentially a giant vending machine for renting outdoor gear and purchasing meals. Right On Trek, the company behind it, is aiming to provide a myriad of services for those looking to take a day hike or head into the backcountry.

The Recession Queens

In 2009, when my daughter Talia was going to college in Seattle and living in a dorm, my sister and I concocted a scheme (Actually, my sister Barb recollects the getaway was solely my idea and that I was the one who came up with our trio’s grandiose name) to rendezvous with her there over spring break, which required a flight for both of us — my sister from Ohio and me from Montana. v

As it marks its first year, health center acquires Sykes Pharmacy

The acquisition, effective June 1, comes as the health center celebrates its first anniversary as an independent organization. Last year the Flathead Community Health Center, which was a division of the Flathead City-County Health Department, began operation as a private nonprofit with a new name.

With Indianapolis 500 at full throttle, business is booming

Merchants near the Indianapolis Motor Speedway are welcoming a return to full capactiy. Hotels are filling up. It's a challenge to keep merchandise in stock. Restaurants are bustling with customers. After two years impacted by the pandemic, fans are spending money ahead of Sunday's Indianapolis 500. Even high gas prices and inflation concerns are not getting in the way of a business boom in Indy.

Worry about stagflation, a flashback to '70s, begins to grow

Stagflation is the bitterest of pills: High inflation mixes with a weak job market to cause a toxic brew that punishes consumers and befuddles economists. For decades, most economists didn't think such a nasty concoction was even possible.

Who holds the keys to Montana’s Western congressional seat?

For the first time in decades, Montanans are considering a ballot with two new federal congressional districts — a division based on population gains documented by the 2020 census. Neither district comes with a pat political history or clear electoral forecast. But in the inaugural June 7 primary for Montana’s House District 1, the Western District, at least one element isn’t in short supply: political diversity.

Letters to the editor May 29

Letters to the editor May 29

James Allen Parker, 75

James Allen Parker passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on May 23, 2022.

Myron 'Mike' Keith Strand

Myron “Mike” Keith Strand passed away April 11, 2022.

Helen Nelson

Helen Nelson passed away peacefully at home on Friday, May 20, 2022.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Seminars and events related to business

Michael Henry Perzan

Michael Henry Perzan passed away unexpectedly of natural causes at his house on April 24, 2022.

Sisters share horsepacking knowledge with others

When Hannah Boll's her parents dragged her to a meeting of the Flathead Valley 4-H Trail and Packing program, she had no idea how much the experience would change her life.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

News from businesses in the Flathead Valley

CI-121 would create inequity in tax system

For the last 100 years the Montana Taxpayers Association (MONTAX) has served as Montana’s most trusted resource for nonpartisan tax and government spending information.

Let’s stand for freedom and privacy

Fifty years. Half a century. That seems like a long time. But it’s not.

CEO pay rose 17% in 2021 as profits soared

The typical compensation package for chief executives who run S&P 500 companies soared 17.1% last year, to a median $14.5 million, according to data analyzed for The Associated Press by Equilar.

Lessons from years of reducing violence

NAMI Montana serves Montanans who live with serious mental health conditions and their families.

Richard 'Rick' Allen Halverson, 71

Richard “Rick” Allen Halverson passed away on Oct. 15, 2021, following a stroke.

Bigfork’s Elliot Sanford carries love of caves to college

Elliot Sanford is a member of the Bigfork High Cave Club, which allows students to get real life experience mapping and exploring caves. In fact, he’s proved himself to be a leader in the group, compiling more conservation and management reports for public agencies like the U.S. Forest Service than other current members of the club.

Time for action at Blankenship

Last year it was an old school bus that got swamped at the Blankenship Bridge river access near West Glacier. This year it’s a pickup truck, stuck and buried in water and gravel up to its front bumper on May 21.

Macy's raises annual profit outlook on strong Q1 results

The department store chain raised its annual earnings outlook even as surging inflation is crimping Americans' budgets. The results announced Thursday was among the few bright spots in a pile of reports from retailers that showed rising costs for everything from labor to shipping.

Social media hammered by mounting questions over advertising

Social media has had a rough 2022 with lingering questions about advertising spending, political ads and a $44 billion takeover of Twitter that may or may not be happening, depending on which Elon Musk tweet you read.

Edward 'Neil' Brewster, 75

Edward “Neil” Brewster departed his time on earth on May 20, 2022

Legals for May, 29 2022

Nicole Rene Dockstader, 53

Nicole Rene Dockstader, 53, died of cancer on Thursday, April 14, 2022, at home in Bigfork with her mother by her side.

Vikings, Valkyries third at State B

GREAT FALLS — George Bucklin cleared a career best in the high jump and helped the Vikings to third overall at the State B-C track and field meet on Saturday.

Glacier boys garner silver

BUTTE — The Glacier Wolfpack had the dogs to win a second State AA boys track and field championship Saturday, at Bulldog Memorial Stadium.

Polson takes third at State A

HAMILTON — Polson avenged its two regular-season losses to conference rival Columbia Falls and took home some hardware as a result at State A softball on Saturday.

State A track: Whitefish grabs gold, bronze

Around 2:30 p.m. on Saturday at the State A track and field championships, the Whitefish girls found themselves in a tight spot: They were among four teams within three points.

PHOTOS: Kayakers battle the Wild Mile at the Bigfork Whitewater Festival

Kayakers navigate a section of the Wild Mile along the Swan River during the Expert Slalom event at the Bigfork Whitewater Festival on Saturday, May 28.

MSU College of Agriculture seeks nominations for outstanding leaders

The award recognizes individuals, families or businesses that have gone above and beyond for the Montana agricultural industry in the realms of public service, advocacy, production or business. Awardees will be honored during the Celebrate Ag breakfast event Oct. 22 ahead of the Bobcat home football game against Weber State.

Volunteers ensure local Memorial Day events receive an honor guard

The United Veterans of Flathead Valley will once again have a busy Memorial Day.

Lawmakers to DPHHS: birth certificate emergency rule is ‘anti-democratic and insulting to Montanans’

Democrats on a state Legislature interim committee sent a letter Thursday urging the Department of Public Health and Human Services to rescind an emergency rule it enacted this week that closed the door for transgender Montanans to update the sex on their birth certificates, arguing that the process of creating the rule was “anti-democratic and insulting to Montanans.”

Sheriff: Fire destroys Townsend lumber mill facing sale

TOWNSEND, Mont. (AP) — A fire destroyed a closed lumber mill in Townsend less than a month before its buildings and equipment were to be sold at auction, Broadwater County Sheriff Wynn Meehan said Friday.

Man who led deputies on high speed chase pleads guilty

The man who led law enforcement on a lengthy high speed chase through the Canyon earlier this year pleaded guilty to criminal endangerment in Flathead County District Court on May 26.

Twins edge AA Lakers in 10 innings

Dayne Tu’s RBI double in the 10th inning broke a 2-2 tie, and the Glacier Twins scored a 4-2 win over the Kalispell AA Lakers Friday at Griffin Field.

State softball: Updated scores, pairings

State A Game 21 — Billings Central 5, Polson (20-8) 4, Polson takes third

C-Falls, Polson to meet again — at State A softball

HAMILTON — Columbia Falls stayed alive at the State A softball tournament Friday. So did defending champion Polson.

Wolfpack bows out of State AA softball

MISSOULA — The Glacier Wolfpack wrapped up their 2022 season Saturday, splitting a pair of loser-out contests at the State AA softball tournament at Fort Missoula.

Vikings lead State B field

GREAT FALLS — The Bigfork Vikings cruised to the top of the team standings at the State B track and field championship after seven events Friday.

State AA tennis: Wolfpack's Sanders third, Speer and Downs fifth

MISSOULA — Glacier’s Haven Speer and Sarah Downs ended up fifth, Harrison Sanders was third, and the Bozeman girls ran away with the team crown Friday at the State AA tennis tournament.

Whitefish boys State A tennis co-champions

BOZEMAN — Billings Central won the girls crown, and the Whitefish and Billings Central boys were co-champions Friday at the State A tennis tournament.

State AA track: Ells cruises to 1,600 title, Pack sitting fourth

BUTTE — In case anyone had a doubt, the 1,600 is still Sam Ells’ jam. The Glacier High senior cruised to victory in his favorite race Friday, at the State AA track and field championships at Bulldog Memorial Stadium.

Whitefish girls, boys sitting third at State A track

BUTTE — Brooke Zetooney and Hailey Ells finished neck-and-neck in their one final on Friday at the State A track and field championships. No surprise there.

Judge orders US to decide if wolverines need protection

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A federal judge has given U.S. wildlife officials 18 months to decide if wolverines should be protected under the Endangered Species Act, following years of dispute over how much risk climate change and other threats pose to the rare and elusive predators.

State's schools chief cited for illegally passing school bus

HELENA — Police have cited State Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen for a May 19 incident in which Arnzten allegedly illegally passed a school bus that had its flashing lights on while schoolchildren were loading.

Francis “Frank” A. Haczewski, 67

Francis “Frank” A. Haczewski, 67, of Kalispell, passed away on May 22, 2022, at Logan Health Medical Center.

Corvettes on display in Whitefish for Memorial Day weekend

The Funseekers Corvette and Yacht Club officially started in Whitefish in 1986 and while the club’s members do have fun and they do have Corvettes, there is nary a boat to be seen.

Whitefish Mountain Resort kicks off summer activities Memorial Day weekend

Whitefish Mountain Resort will kick off its summer operating season with Zip Line tours, Alpine Slides, scenic lift rides and other activities this Memorial Day weekend, May 28 to 30. As in past years, the resort will open gradually as the weather warms and snow continues to melt.

Montana CIT academy teaches participants how to navigate a mental health crisis

Crisis intervention training, including one session held in Kalispell earlier this month, helps prepare local law enforcement for interactions with individuals suffering mental health problems, officials say.

Legals for May, 27 2022

Whitefish shooter released on own recognizance

Wilson Dane Huyser, 33, of Rollins was being held in the county jail on a $75,000 bond for a felony criminal endangerment charge. He was released, with conditions, on May 24.

Area students win statewide and divisional awards for wildfire prevention artwork

A Columbia Falls High School sophomore’s art was selected as the statewide winner of a wildfire prevention art contest.

Exchange Club, Glacier High host Field of Honor over Memorial Day weekend

The Flathead Valley Exchange Club and Glacier High School are teaming up to give the community a chance to recognize their heroes this Memorial Day by hosting a Field of Honor at the school May 27-30.

Walburn wins 2nd NAIA outdoor decathlon title

GULF SHORES, Ala. — Lee Walburn of Whitefish has doubled up as NAIA outdoor decathlon national champion, bringing home gold for Carroll College for a second time Thursday.

Lady Bulldogs lead State A tennis

BOZEMAN — The Whitefish girls lead the team race after the first day of action at the State A tennis tournament in Bozeman Thursday.

Whitefish girls, Glacier boys hope to strike gold in Butte

The State AA and A track meets are, for one of the few times in memory, being held in the same venue Friday and Saturday: Butte’s Bulldog Memorial Stadium.

Glacier's Speer, Downs in doubles title contention at State AA

MISSOULA — Glacier doubles pair Haven Speer and Sarah Downs are in title contention after putting together a strong first day of play at the State AA tennis tournament Thursday.

Updated: State softball scores

State AA Fort Missoula Thursday Game 1 — Billings Skyview 6, Butte 4 Game 2 — Great Falls CMR 9, Glacier 2

Twins hold off A Lakers Wednesday, 8-4

WHITEFISH — The Glacier Twins had just four hits but scored big, building leads of 5-0 nad 8-1 on the way to an 8-4 Legion baseball win over the Kalispell A Lakers Wednesday.

Range Riders split pair on Wednesday.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Gabe Howell had three hits and scored four times as the Glacier Range Riders took an 11-8 win and gained a split of their Pioneer League doubleheader with the Rocky Mountain Vibes Wednesday.

Lake County boy in custody following social media threats

A Lake County boy is charged with felony intimidation after he allegedly made threats on social media about shooting people at a school in St. Ignatius, authorities said Thursday.

Trump ally Zinke fights claim he's too liberal for Montana

BUTTE, Mont. (AP) — When Republican Ryan Zinke first ran for Congress, the former Navy SEAL faced false accusations amplified by Democrats that his military career had ended in disgrace.

Police: Texas gunman walked through apparently unlocked door

UVALDE, Texas (AP) — The gunman who massacred 19 children and two teachers at a Texas elementary school was inside for more than an hour before he was killed in a shootout, law enforcement authorities said Thursday amid mounting public anger and scrutiny over their response to the rampage.

Glacier softball drops State AA opener

MISSOULA — Madeline Hamma’s two-run double gave Great Falls Russell the lead for good in the third inning Thursday, and the Rustlers went on to down Glacier 9-2 at the State AA softball tournament.

Truck gets stuck in river at controversial Blankenship camp

Just days after a lawsuit was filed against the Forest Service over the allegedly out-of-control camp at the Blankenship Bridge, yet another vehicle, this time a pickup, got stuck in the adjacent stretch of the Flathead River.

Port Polson Players stage final weekend of ‘No Coward’s Epitaph”

Port Polson Players are reprising the historical musical by Neal Lewing, “No Coward’s Epitaph” at Polson’s Theatre on the Lake for one final weekend.

The House That Rob Built’ Lady Griz sports documentary nominated for Emmy

“The House That Rob Built,” feted at Montana’s Big Sky Film Festival and released digitally nationwide, has garnered a nomination from the Northwest Regional Emmy Awards, in the category of Documentary/Historical.

'Precious individuals' taken in Texas school shooting

UVALDE, Texas (AP) — One student was an avid runner, so fast she swept the races at field day. Another was learning football plays from his grandfather. One girl sensed something was wrong and wanted to skip school.

Law roundup: The entitled bunch strikes again

A man with an arm in a cast, a woman with blonde and blue hair and minor — allegedly paid about $14 for more than $100 worth of merchandise. Employees told the Kalispell Police Department they had asked the ragtag

Legals for May, 26 2022

Renowned opera singer from Austria performs in Kalispell

Renowned opera singer from Austria performs in Kalispell

Wolfpack Theatre stages Shakespeare/Broadway mash-up musical

The Wolfpack Theatre Company’s mash-up of 16th-century Shakespeare and 21st-century Broadway in the over-the-top musical comedy “Something Rotten” continues May 26 and 27 at 6:33 p.m. with a special matinee performance on May 28 at 2 p.m. in the Wolfpack Theatre at Glacier High School.

WTC’s ‘Murder On The Orient Express’ gets rolling

The Whitefish Theatre Company presents Agatha Christie’s thrilling mystery “Murder On The Orient Express” as its final show of the 2021-2022 season.

Conrad Mansion opens a most ‘suitable’ new exhibit

The Conrad Mansion’s newest historic clothing tour and exhibit, titled “Suiting Everyone: Women in Suits 1890-1970,” will be on display May through October.

Flathead musician Eric Alan and Nashville trio kick off Crown Jewel Concert Series

Local musician Eric Alan and The Gold Sisters, along with drummer and longtime friend Rick Martinez, are wrapping up a two-week tour of the Flathead Valley this weekend with the kick-off of the Crown Jewel Concert Series in Bigfork.

Letters to the editor May 26

Letters to the editor May 26

Flathead County named defendant in wrongful death lawsuit

A lawsuit has been filed against Flathead County over the death of a Kalispell man who was struck by a county-owned semi-truck near Creston in November.

Continuity of culture in local politics

The Montana primary election is coming up and I have been thinking about the choices I face in my rural Montana county.

The Blackfeet Nation’s plight underscores the fentanyl crisis on reservations

BROWNING — As the pandemic was setting in during summer 2020, Justin Lee Littledog called his mom to tell her he was moving from Texas back home to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana with his girlfriend, stepson, and son.

Sun Road reservations required beginning Friday

Vehicle reservations are required to access Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork area of the park beginning Friday, May 27. Reservations are required for access through Sept. 11.

ATP presents ‘The Queens of Country’ show

The music of the greatest female country singers of all time takes center stage in the hit-packed tribute concert, “The Queens of Country” featuring an all-star lineup of Alpine Theatre Project artists and musicians.

Artists selected for 2022 artist residency program

Artist Wilderness Connection (AWC), a unique, collaborative artist-in-residence program in Montana managed by Hockaday Museum of Art, Flathead National Forest, Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation and Swan Valley Connections, has selected two participants in 2022 — creative writer Max Owens of Bellingham, Washington, and visual artist Beth Vallieres of Whitefish.

Martin City man accused of assaulting minor, strangling girlfriend

Prosecutors have brought a Martin City man up on multiple felony charges for allegedly lifting a child by his neck and later strangling his girlfriend earlier this month.

Keven Allen Perry, 58

Keven Allen Perry died peacefully in his sleep of natural causes on Friday May 6, 2022.

Whitefish’s Holmquist excels in technique-heavy shot put

Matt Beckwith, longtime throwing coach at Whitefish High School and a 160-foot discus thrower in his high school days, knows the good ones don’t come around very often. In Talon Holmquist, the Bulldogs have a shot putter that looks the part (6-foot-6, 245 pounds) and backs it up.

Glacier, C-Falls confident heading to state tourneys

Familiar foes could serve to give the Glacier Wolfpack and Columbia Falls Wildkats confidence heading into the respective state softball tournaments.

Glacier, Whitefish set for state tennis

For a decade the Glacier boys dominated Northern AA tennis, winning the divisional title 10 times in a row and breaking through last year to win the program’s second state championship.

Converted catcher finds room to roam

On May 10, in the last inning of a non-conference softball game, Flathead’s Macy Craver came up big: She drove a 1-1 pitch out to right-center for a grand slam.

Loggers hold off KV Rangers

EUREKA — Caden Williams’ two-run single in the seventh inning broke a 9-9 tie, and the Libby Loggers held off the Kootenai Valley Rangers 11-10 for a Legion win Wednesday.

Charles Parkly on PL show premiere; Range Riders have twinbill

Charles Barkley has a day off from the NBA playoffs Wednesday, so he’s going to talk a little Pioneer League baseball.

Flathead County commissioners agree to settle lawsuit over Whistlestop resort

Flathead County commissioners last week approved a $47,000 settlement with Friends of Lake Five that will pay for the nonprofit neighborhood group’s attorney fees.

FDA chief: COVID, mail mix-up delayed action on baby formula

WASHINGTON (AP) — The head of the Food and Drug Administration said Wednesday that efforts to investigate problems at a baby formula plant linked to the nationwide shortage were slowed by COVID-19, scheduling conflicts and even a missing piece of mail.

Motorcyclist mortally wounded in Lake County wreck

Officials with Montana Highway Patrol said the 29-year-old victim, who was on a Honda motorcycle, struck the front end of a Subaru Outback trying to turn onto Montana 35 about 6:18 p.m.

Arnold R. Edwards, 92

Arnold R. Edwards passed away peacefully on Friday, May 20, 2022, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

Kalispell examines garbage rate increase

Residences now pay $111 per year for garbage collection. The city is looking at options that could increase that rate by up to $37 per year. 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.

Gerald 'Jerry' Dean Wabschall, 75

Mr. Gerald “Jerry” Dean Wabschall of Kalispell passed away on Wednesday, May 18, 2022, at the age of 75.

Law roundup: Woman takes sledgehammer on beer run

A bullheaded woman who was reportedly banned from a Hungry Horse business once again returned wanting beer. This time, she was carrying

West Valley School board has opening

West Valley School District is looking to fill a vacancy on the school board following the resignation of Chad Grace.

Legals for May, 25 2022

Incumbents retain seats on FEC board

Three incumbents, who all ran unopposed, have been re-elected to Flathead Electric Cooperative’s Board of Trustees. The annual election closed Friday, May 20 and the board met on Monday, May 23 to certify and announce the results.

Alleged campground killer charged with deliberate homicide

Garry Douglas Seaman, 63, of Kalispell is being held without bond in the Lincoln County Detention Center following his extradition from Flathead County.

Committee deems allegations against former KPD officer, commission candidate worth pursuing

Members of the Montana Public Safety Officer Standards and Training Council’s case status committee agreed to issue a letter to Jason Parce after receiving an abbreviated run-down of the accusations against him.

Montana bars birth certificate changes, even with surgery

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Montana health officials say transgender people can't change their birth certificates even if they undergo gender-confirmation surgery, in defiance of a court order that had blocked the Republican-controlled state's bid to restrict transgender rights.

Texas school shooting kills 18 children, 3 adults

An 18-year-old gunman opened fire Tuesday at a Texas elementary school, killing at least 18 children, officials said, and the gunman was dead.

Courts stymie abortion bans in Iowa, other GOP-led states

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — With a staunch anti-abortion Republican governor and large GOP legislative majorities, Iowa would seem poised to ban abortion if the U.S. Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade.

Rollins man accused of Whitefish shooting that sent ricochet into bystander

A Rollins man faces a felony criminal endangerment charge after a gun he fired in Whitefish on May 14 left a bystander hospitalized with a wound from a ricochet.

Ruth Elaine (Judd) Baer, 95

April 6, 1927, to May 12, 2022, is just over 95 years; Ruth Elaine (Judd) Baer fully lived every minute of that long life.

Q&A with U.S. House candidate Tom Winter

Editor’s Note: The Daily Inter Lake is republishing select answers from questionnaires completed by the candidates for U.S. House District 1 and submitted to the Montana Free Press. This is the final excerpt to appear in print. The candidates were published in alphabetical order by party.

Legals for May, 24 2022

Man arrested after standoff pleads not guilty to strangulation, theft charges

Authorities arrested Martin McGarry, 36, following a May 10 standoff in an apartment complex off of Liberty Street in Kalispell. He is being held in county jail on a $100,000 bond.

Law roundup: Know when to hold'em, fold'em, walk away

The disappearance of a Kalispell man after an argument over money left his wife worried. She told the Kalispell Police Department that the disagreement occurred about 7:30 a.m. the day before. He left in her truck and she hadn’t seen him since. She was afraid he might get into even more trouble.

Prosecutors: Acquaintances worried Whitefish man might commit mass shooting

Friends and family of a Whitefish man arrested during an armed standoff in April worried the man might commit a mass shooting, court documents say.

Richard 'Rick' Bean, 73

Richard “Rick” Bean, 73, of Kalispell, passed away May 17, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family.

College programs look to tackle Montana's EMS shortage

Last year, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services released the results of a survey of 61 in-state EMS agencies and 42 hospitals identifying staffing and recruitment issues as among the primary drivers of what it characterized as a “crisis.”

Howell, Trammell hit grand slams in Range Riders opener

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Brandon Trammell and Gabe Howell each hit grand slams as the Glacier Range Riders thumped the Rocky Mountain Vibe 15-1 in their first Pioneer League game Monday.

Butte softball rolls past Bravettes, 20-2

Flathead's Kaidyn Lake hits 2-run homerun in fourth inning

Cooler weather helps firefighters battling New Mexico blaze

MORA, N.M. (AP) — Firefighters in New Mexico who are battling the nation's largest active wildfire said Monday that cooler weather helped them prevent the blaze from growing as nearly 3,000 firefighters worked to strengthen and increase their firebreaks.

Report: Top Southern Baptists stonewalled sex abuse victims

Leaders of the Southern Baptist Convention, America's largest Protestant denomination, stonewalled and denigrated survivors of clergy sex abuse over almost two decades while seeking to protect their own reputations, according to a scathing 288-page investigative report issued Sunday.

Letters to the editor May 23

Letters to the editor May 23

Legals for May, 23 2022

Law roundup: Woman needs to put a hold on anger

An uncouth woman left a business after reportedly slugging an employee on the chin when she did not get what she wanted. Sluggo decided to

Working in Glacier Park is homecoming for Public Affairs Officer

Growing up on a ranch along the Canadian border near Del Bonita on the east side of Glacier Park, Gina Kerzman spent her childhood on the Blackfeet Reservation in the shadow of Chief Mountain. After 30 years working for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, Kerzman took over as Glacier’s spokesperson in May 2020 and returned to the land so dear to her heart.

Kalispell City Council digs into budget numbers

The city starts its review of the budget for the upcoming fiscal year in May, but it won’t adopt the final budget until property valuations come in from the state in August.

Q&A with U.S. House candidate Monica Tranel

Editor’s Note: The Daily Inter Lake is republishing select answers from questionnaires completed by the candidates for U.S. House District 1 and submitted to the Montana Free Press. This is the sixth of seven (Libertarian candidate John Lamb and Republican candidate Mary Todd did not submit answers) to appear in print. The candidates are being published in alphabetical order by party.

Range Riders set for first Pioneer League game

June 14 is home opener

Lakers third, Mariners first in Canadian Days A tourney

Mission Valley downs River City 11-0 in championship

Lakers AA down Northwest Premier at Canadian Days tourney

Lakers score 7 runs in second inning

Billings hospital uses virtual reality to aid rehabilitation

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Dr. Jose Ortiz counted the minutes he spent in the back of an ambulance transporting him from Red Lodge to Billings.

Suspect arrested after fatal shooting at Libby campground

One man is dead and a suspect is in custody following a shooting at a campground near Libby on Saturday afternoon.

Letters to the editor May 22

Letters to the editor May 22

Mining companies back away from Brazil's Indigenous areas

Some of the world's biggest mining companies have withdrawn requests to research and extract minerals on Indigenous land in Brazil's Amazon rainforest, and repudiated Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's efforts to legalize mining activity in the areas.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead businesses

Legals for May, 22 2022

MSU engineering students help Billings business with manufacturing

As a team of engineering students wraps up an intensive two-semester class, in addition to receiving a grade they’ll get the satisfaction of helping a Montana business and knowing they can perform at a level comparable in many ways to professional engineers.

Election mail bag May 22

Election mail bag May 22

Terence 'Terry' Gembala, 67

Terence “Terry” Gembala passed away unexpectedly at his home on Jan. 14, 2022, at the age of 67.

Darlene Allik, 88

In the early morning hours of May 6, 2022, Darlene Allik gently passed on, being welcomed into heaven by family and dear friends who had gone on before her.

Youth center proposal a boon for Flathead

Last week, the valley learned more about an exciting new project on the north end of Kalispell that includes the creation of a massive, year-round youth center.

Whitefish native serves in Navy’s prestigious TOPGUN program

Petty Officer 1st Class Nicholas Zignego is a 2003 Whitefish High School graduate.

Farmer sues VW over climate change; German court has doubts

A court in Germany cast has doubt on claims by a German farmer that automaker Volkswagen is partly responsible for the impact that global warming is having on his family business. The plaintiff alleges that drier soil and heavier rains due to climate change are harming his fields, cattle and commercial forests.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Events and seminars targeted at businesses

Jeweler retiring after five decades in industry

After 50 years of working in jewelry, Murphy McMahon, the owner of L’Or Custom Jewelers, is leaving behind a legacy. Before opening his current store in Kalispell, McMahon owned a store in Whitefish. McMahon bought the storefront in Kalispell in 1997 and after a few years of remodeling, he opened full-time in 2004.

Genevieve Anne Malkuch, 90

Genevieve Anne Malkuch, 90, made her journey to heaven on May 1, 2022, on a beautiful (May Day) morning.

Ray Leonard Bear, 83

Ray Leonard Bear, 83, passed away peacefully with family in attendance on Sunday, Nov. 21, 2021, at Logan Health from Covid-19.

Let’s protect Montana’s hunting traditions

United Property Owners of Montana (UPOM, wealthy Republican landowners) are intent on privatizing Montana’s elk.

Law roundup Man’s bathroom art heist unsuccessful

Three men who allegedly stole a painting from a bathroom had returned to the scene of the crime at a restaurant and casino.

Taxing unrealized gains tramples on the American dream

These days, if you don’t agree with the socialist-style “equitable distribution of wealth” or in the words of Sen. Elizabeth Warren, “pay something in so everybody else gets a share,” then you’re just a greedy rich person not interested in “paying your fair share.”

Stories from Trego tunnel deviate from historical record

Working between 1967 and 1968, Bruce Morse was a member of one of the three 20-man crews working around the clock on the tunnel’s south portal. Joining his father Herb, a diesel mechanic who had secured him the job, on the engine the pair made their first trip into the tunnel to work together.

Q&A with U.S. House candidate Cora Neumann

Editor’s Note: The Daily Inter Lake is republishing select answers from questionnaires completed by the candidates for U.S. House District 1 and submitted to the Montana Free Press. This is the fifth of seven (Libertarian candidate John Lamb and Republic candidate Mary Todd did not submit answers) to appear in print. The candidates are being published in alphabetical order by party.

Bond reduction denied for accused killer

District Judge Dan Wilson denied May 19 a request to lower bail for Zackary Maas, the Columbia Falls man charged with deliberate homicide in the wake of a March shooting in Kalispell.

Marker effort drives for safety

“Someone said, ‘We need to get with this white-marker program,’” Bob Bigler remembers of that American Legion meeting in 2005. “Well, I could help with that.”

Rally yanks Wall Street from maw of bear market

Wall Street rumbled to the edge of a bear market Friday after another drop for stocks briefly sent the S&P 500 more than 20% below its peak set early this year.

Montana Board of Housing invites rental properties to apply for federal tax credit

After holding a series of public meetings on May 16 and May 17, the Montana Board of Housing invited eight affordable rental properties to move forward with federal Housing Tax Credit applications to build or rehabilitate affordable homes in Montana.

Mason DeWilliam Smith, 48

Mason DeWilliam Smith, our beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, nephew, cousin and friend, left this world much too soon at the age of 48

Montana internet company expands to Happy Valley

After 28 years of providing internet service, MontanaSky Network will be expanding to Happy Valley between Whitefish and Kalispell.

Gas prices and inflation could impact summer visitation numbers

About six in 10 Americans are planning at least one summer trip, according to April figures released by the U.S. Travel Association, but nearly two-thirds or 63% say rising gas prices will impact their decision to travel.

Health care reforms benefitting Montanans

The 2021 Montana Legislature passed major health care reforms to empower patients, reduce red tape for doctors, and provide access to more affordable care.

Bigfork runs away with Western B titles

FRENCHTOWN — The Valkyries and Vikings built on their first-day lead at the Western B track divisional and ran away with the team titles Saturday.

Ells doubles up, Wolfpack second to Sentinel boys

MISSOULA — The distance double happened for Sam Ells Saturday, and should the Glacier standout run a solid 800 race next week — he plans to — the Wolfpack might find gold in Butte.

Double, error gets C-Falls a walk-off win over Polson

COLUMBIA FALLS — Aspen Dawson hit a two-out double, then came around to score the winning run on an error as Columbia Falls beat Polson 5-4 in a Northwest A softball showdown Saturday.

Libby’s Beagle upsets Ellis

Bulldogs sweep team awards at divisional

Whitefish came home with two doubles championships and swept the team titles at the Western A divisional tennis tournament, but boys singles provided the biggest surprise of the tournament.

Kersten wins divisional girls crown

GREAT FALLS — Flathead’s Alexis Kersten secured a divisional title and trip to state with her victory in the girls’ singles championship at the Northern AA divisional tournament on Saturday.

Glacier hosting football camps

Incoming and current freshmen at Glacier High are welcome to attend a “Welcome to Wolfpack Football” camp that runs May 31 (Thursday) through June 2, 5-7 p.m. each day.

Whitefish girls rule, Holmquist sets record at Western A meet

HAMILTON — The Whitefish girls created some space Saturday, riding two wins from Brooke Zetooney and another from Erin Wilde to take the Western A Divisional track and field title.

PHOTOS: Brooke Hanson Memorial Family Fishing Day at Pine Grove Pond

Families spent the morning fishing along the shoreline of Pine Grove Pond at the Brooke Hanson Memorial Family Fishing Day on Saturday, May 21. Hundreds of prizes were donated by area merchants and sportsmen's groups to be awarded to kids 12 and under. The event was sponsored by Flathead Wildlife and donations go to enhancing fishing opportunities around the Flathead in Brooke Hanson's memory.

GOP contenders debate in Whitefish, sans Zinke

Four Republican candidates for Montana’s new western U.S. House seat debated in Whitefish on Friday, generally finding agreement on a number of points related to the state’s agricultural challenges and preserving the rural Montana lifestyle.

Access to Logan Pass won't open before June 27

Visitors to Glacier National Park won’t be able to access Logan Pass before June 27, park officials said Friday.

Report: Video recording shows aircraft crashing after losing a wing

A surveillance camera captured the kit-built plane — missing a wing — hurtling toward the ground immediately prior to the April 30 crash in the West Valley that killed two Flathead County residents.

Loyola sweeps State B-C tennis titles

BOZEMAN — Missoula Loyola swept the boys and girls team titles at the State B-C tennis tournament last week, the third consecutive crown for the girls and second straight for the boys.

Glacier pins 15-6 loss on Sentinel Spartans

Sammie Labrum and Emma Cooke each hit home runs to back the sterling relief pitching of Ella Farrell, and Glacier thumped Missoula Sentinel 15-6 in a Western AA softball battle Friday.

Bulldogs, Wildkats battling for Western A track title

HAMILTON — Hailey Ells and Erin Wilde provided individual victories for the Whitefish girls Friday, at the Western A Divisional track and field meet at Broncs Stadium.

Western AA divisional: Bernhardt burns up a cold 300s

MISSOULA — The patch of blue sky sitting over MCPS Stadium disappeared, the wind picked up and Caleb Bernhardt took off.

Vikes and Vals lead Western B track

FRENCHTOWN — The Vikings and Valkyries lead the standings after the first day of the Western B/C Divisional track meet Friday at Frenchtown High School.

Rally yanks Wall Street from maw of bear market

Wall Street rumbled to the edge of a bear market Friday after another drop for stocks briefly sent the S&P 500 more than 20% below its peak set early this year.

ACLU: State violating court order blocking changes of new birth certificate law

The ACLU of Montana is threatening further legal action against the State of Montana over allegations it is not complying with a judge’s ruling in April that temporarily blocked a recently passed GOP-sponsored bill that changed the process to alter the sex designation on a birth certificate.

Biden forest plan stirs dispute over what counts as "old"

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — President Joe Biden's order to protect the nation's oldest forests against climate change, wildfires and other problems devastating vast woodlands is raising a simple yet vexing question: When does a forest grow old?

Q&A with U.S. House candidate Ryan Zinke

Editor’s Note: The Daily Inter Lake is republishing select answers from questionnaires completed by the candidates for U.S. House District 1 and submitted to the Montana Free Press. This is the fourth of seven (Libertarian candidate John Lamb and Republic candidate Mary Todd did not submit answers) to appear in print. The candidates are being published in alphabetical order by party.

Man denies charges stemming from alleged pharmacy holdup

The man accused of knocking over a Columbia Falls pharmacy last month pleaded not guilty to multiple charges in district court Thursday and will remain in custody on a $250,000 bond after Judge Robert Allison denied a bail reduction request.

Legals for May, 20 2022

Flathead County Clerk and Recorder Election: Debbie Pierson

Editor’s Note: In the race for Flathead County Clerk and Recorder, incumbent Republican Debbie Pierson is being challenged by Madelene Howard in the primary election on June 7. No Democrats have filed for the position.

Flathead County Clerk and Recorder Election: Maddie Howard

In the race for Flathead County Clerk and Recorder, incumbent Republican Debbie Pierson is being challenged by Madelene Howard in the primary election on June 7. No Democrats have filed for the position.

Montana not following transgender birth certificate ruling

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — It's been a month since a Montana judge temporarily blocked enforcement of a state law that required transgender people to undergo surgery before they could change their gender on their birth certificate, and the state still isn't in compliance with the court order, the ACLU of Montana said.

Bill looks to exempt outfitters and guides from minimum wage rule

The new bill was proposed in response to Executive Order 14026, which was issued by President Biden on April 27, 2021 and went into effect Jan. 30 of this year. The order requires all new federal contracts to incorporate a minimum wage of $15 per hour for most employees and a minimum wage of $7.90 per hour for tipped workers.

Law roundup: They come from a land Down Under

Officers with the Columbia Falls Police Department met with the couple, who were visiting from Down Under, and learned that it was a misunderstanding. The two were just looking at their phones.

Lakeside project featuring alpine coaster draws ire of neighbors

A meeting held by the Montana Department of Transportation in Lakeside on Wednesday night grew contentious as neighbors voiced opposition over a potential alpine coaster development just down the road.

Whitefish netters on a roll

A few matches were played indoors at the Summit when the Northwest A tennis divisional started Thursday, but the weather held enough later on for play to resume outdoors at the FVCC courts.

Strong first day for Flathead, Glacier at divisional

GREAT FALLS — Two Bravettes advanced to the second round of singles matches at the Northern AA divisional Thursday at Great Falls High.

West Valley fills superintendent position

Washington principal Cindy Risher is set to be the new West Valley School superintendent beginning July 1.

Authorities ID West Valley plane crash victims

Authorities on Thursday identified the two people who died in a small plane crash April 30 in the West Valley area.

Crossing signals installed along Parkline Trail

Pedestrian crossing signals will be activated Monday as part of the Kalispell Parkline Trail and Linear Park Project. Marked crosswalks and pedestrian warnings signs have been installed at each intersection beginning at Meridian Road going east to 4th Avenue East North.

Q&A with U.S. House candidate Al Olszewski

Editor’s Note: The Daily Inter Lake is republishing select answers from questionnaires completed by the candidates for U.S. House District 1 and submitted to the Montana Free Press. This is the third of seven (Libertarian candidate John Lamb and Republic candidate Mary Todd did not submit answers) to appear in print. The candidates are being published in alphabetical order by party.

Spring water safety

During the last couple of weeks there have been three tragic drownings of local folks enjoying some of Northwest Montana’s rivers and lakes.

Letters to the editor May 19

Letters to the editor May 19

Court ruling shines light on Republican primaries

It’s standard strategy in Republican primaries. Every GOP candidate suddenly sounds like a cross between Ronald Reagan and Milton Friedman.

Jewel Basin Center hosts new summer concert series

The Crown Jewel Concert Series kicks off its summer line-up with an intimate night of music featuring Eric Alan & The Gold Sisters, from Nashville, Tennessee, Saturday, May 28.

Law roundup: Woman’s heart belongs to Whitefish

A woman voiced her concerns about a man’s intentions to dispatchers alleging he was behaving like he owned her despite being causal friends and describing him as being “like an orphan on crack.”

All aboard for WTC’s ‘Murder On The Orient Express’

The Whitefish Theatre Company presents Agatha Christie’s thrilling mystery “Murder On The Orient Express” as its final show of the 2021-2022 season.

Whitefish Review hosts author Ryan Busse

Whitefish Review will host author Ryan Busse in a reading and conversation with Review editor Brian Schott Friday, May 20, at Casey’s in downtown Whitefish.

History Museum's Movie Night screens classic survival story

The Northwest Montana History Museum’s next Movie Night at the Museum begins at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 24, and will feature the 1971 Western “Man in the Wilderness.”

Bell, White vie to lead Lake County Sheriff's Office

Sheriff Don Bell has held the position since 2015, after he defeated three other Republican candidates in the 2014 primary election. He is being challenged by Ronan Police Sgt. Corey White Jr.

Entertainment briefs

Wolfpack Theatre stages Shakespeare/Broadway mash-up

Northwest Ballet Co. partners with Whitefish branch and NW Ballet School for spring performances

The Northwest Ballet Company is back live on stage for its 42nd annual spring production, "Spring Fling."

‘No Coward’s Epitaph' encore presentation in Polson

Port Polson Players are reprising the historical musical by Neal Lewing, “No Coward’s Epitaph” at Polson’s Theatre on the Lake, for two weekends from May 20 through May 29 following its popular world premiere last November.

Legals for May, 19 2022

Donna Marrie Kloster Moon, 74

Donna Marrie Kloster Moon, 74, passed away May 10, 2022, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell due to multiple health issues.

Vikings’ Wade runner-up at State B golf

ANACONDA — Bigfork’s Colin Wade fired a 77 to surge to a three-way tie for second place on Tuesday at the State B golf tournament, held at Fairmont Hot Springs Golf Club.

Libby rolls Browning, 23-0

LIBBY — Taylor Munro threw a four-inning one-hitter and three of her teammates homered in Libby’s 23-0 win over Browning in Northwest A softball Wednesday.

Fisher, Wildkats enjoying big season

Aletheia Fisher figures to teach middle school math someday, but it doesn’t take algebra to crunch Columbia Falls’ softball numbers.

Twins break open close game with Libby

LIBBY — Hayden Meehan threw some sterling relief, then added an RBI single in the eighth inning as the Glacier Twins pulled away to beat Libby 9-2 in Class A Legion baseball Thursday.

State park visitation dips during cool spring

Temperate weather with a few cold spells during the first quarter of 2022 contributed to a slight decrease in the number of overall visitors to state parks in Montana, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks reported last week.

Suit seeks to end camping on gravel bar near Blankenship Bridge

A group of residents calling itself Friends of the Flathead River filed suit against the Forest Service on May 16, claiming the agency is violating the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, The Forest Service Organic Act and the Administrative Procedures Act for allowing people to camp unfettered on a gravel bar near the Blankenship Bridge.

Idaho Gov. Little turns back Trump-backed challenger

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho Gov. Brad Little on Tuesday won the GOP gubernatorial primary, beating a Trump-backed challenger who had repeatedly criticized the incumbent for not being conservative enough.

BNSF changes controversial attendance policy

Montana’s largest railroad company is making changes to a controversial new employee attendance policy after receiving pushback from railroaders and unions. But even with the changes, labor officials remain unimpressed and said BNSF Railway’s new policies could lead to unsafe working conditions on the railroad.

Montana Supreme Court says no to Election Day voter registration

Under an order issued Tuesday by the Montana Supreme Court, Election Day voter registration will once again be prohibited in the state.

Floretta 'Flossie' L. Barnard Caverly, 82

Floretta “Flossie” L. Barnard Caverly passed into the loving arms of our heavenly Father on Dec. 15, 2021, at the age of 82, at her family home in Bigfork after a long battle with cancer.

Mason DeWilliam Smith, 48

Mason DeWilliam Smith, our beloved son, brother, father, grandfather, nephew, cousin and friend, left this world much too soon at the age of 48.

Flathead County Superintendent of Schools Election: Ketchum wants to do what’s best for kids

Two Republicans — Cal Ketchum and Erin Arneson — are running for the position of Flathead County Superintendent of Schools in the primary election on June 6. No Democrats filed for the position.

Legals for May, 18 2022

FEC awards scholarships to local students

Flathead Electric Cooperative recently announced its 2022 Scholarship Program recipients. A total of $117,000 — funded by unclaimed capital credits — was awarded to local students this year.

Marie Katherine Sirucek Reed, 93

On May 14, 2022, our beloved mother, Marie Reed, passed peacefully from our home to her home in heaven.

Law roundup: Obnoxious man not welcome in store

A Kalispell employee asked the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to remove a man from the store because he was acting erratically and being obnoxious.

Cayuse Prairie administrator selected as superintendent of the year for Northwest Montana

Cayuse Prairie School Superintendent and Principal Amy Piazzola was chosen by her peers as the 2021-22 Superintendent of the Year for the Northwest Montana region.

Flathead County Superintendent of Schools Election: Arneson wants to bridge gaps caused by division

Two Republicans — Cal Ketchum and Erin Arneson — are running for the position of Flathead County Superintendent of Schools in the primary election on June 6. No Democrats filed for the position.

Leland Wayne Harness, 81

Leland Wayne Harness completed his work as a warrior of God on May 13, 2022.

Elisabeth Edra Dresen, 82

Elisabeth Edra Dresen, 82, of Columbia Falls, passed away on May 10, 2022, at Brendan House.

Q&A with U.S. House candidate Matt Jette

Editor’s Note: The Daily Inter Lake is republishing select answers from questionnaires completed by the candidates for U.S. House District 1 and submitted to the Montana Free Press. This is the second of seven (Libertarian candidate John Lamb and Republic candidate Mary Todd did not submit answers) to appear in print. The candidates are being published in alphabetical order.

Eco groups say timber sale threatens Yaak grizzlies

A collection of environmental groups filed a lawsuit Tuesday challenging a forest project on the Kootenai Forest that they claim will negatively affect grizzly bears.

Whitefish-raised UM grad succeeds with molecular biology, marching band

Hunter Grimes played an important role in Dr. Stephen Lodmell’s on-campus research lab for three years, working to identify interactions of the protein RIOK3 with the cellular immune response to viruses like Rift Valley fever – a deadly mosquito-borne virus that spreads among livestock. But when asked if she could do anything before she graduates this month, Grimes said, “I’d love to run onto the football field with my piccolo one last time.”

Kalispell Council approves Evergreen sewer fee

The change is in response to the Evergreen Water and Sewer District instituting a new meter fee of $3 per account monthly for meter data from each of the sewer customers connected to water service.

Labrum scores six for Pack

In the battle of crooked numbers that was Tuesday’s crosstown softball game at Kidsports, Flathead ran out of them early and Glacier kept them coming.

Eureka’s Casazza leads State B golf

ANACONDA — Erik Casazza of Eureka leads the boys field after the first day of the State B golf tournament at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Golf Course Tuesday, which was moved up a day due to weather concerns later in the week.

McIntyre, Muller lead Twins over KV Rangers

WHITEFISH — Jake McIntyre’s two-run double keyed a four-run seventh inning for the Glacier Twins, who pulled away to beat Kootenai Valley 10-2 Tuesday in Legion baseball at Memorial Field.

Ronan man charged with arson for Boulder 2700 fire, two others

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office announced Tuesday that a Ronan man suspected of igniting the Boulder 2700 fire that burned homes and private property last summer is in custody and has been brought up on arson charges.

Daily service on Amtrak's Empire Builder set to resume

Daily service on the Empire Builder, the only Amtrak line that traverses Montana, will resume May 23, the federally funded passenger rail service announced last week.

Country star Lee Brice to headline fair concert

Country music singer and songwriter Lee Brice is slated to headline the 2022 Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo concert, fair officials announced Tuesday.

Q&A with U.S. House candidate Mitch Hueur

Editor’s Note: The Daily Inter Lake is republishing select answers from questionnaires completed by the candidates for U.S. House District 1 and submitted to the Montana Free Press. This is the first of seven (Libertarian candidate John Lamb and Republic candidate Mary Todd did not submit answers) to appear in print. The candidates are being published in alphabetical order by party.

Louis Obradovich, 94

Louis Obradovich entered this world on Dec. 11, 1927, born to Croatian immigrants, Luka and Alice Obradovich.

State reverses course on federal food assistance

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services announced Friday that it is seeking another round of pandemic-era food assistance funding from the federal government, reversing a decision the agency made earlier this spring to halt participation in the program.

Kila man accused of using bear spray in attack

Randaell Charles Stilson, 18, was booked in the Flathead County Detention Center on May 10 and released on his own recognizance the same day.

Robbery suspect back in jail after allegedly trying to buy a gun

A man facing state and federal charges for allegedly holding up an area pharmacy at gunpoint last month is back in the county jail after trying to to buy a firearm, authorities say.

Legals for May, 17 2022

Nonprofit spearheading creation of large youth center with development

The Flathead Valley Youth Center, a publicly accessible youth center, is planned to be constructed on Church Drive just south of Majestic Valley Arena on U.S. 93. Organizers say the center would provide children and teens with year-round access to athletic, recreation, arts and enrichment programs.

Letters to the editor May 17

Letters to the editor May 17

Law roundup: Repeat beating prompts police response

A woman allegedly broke into a house and beat up a resident. The resident said they didn’t need medical attention, had security footage of the incident and wanted to press charges. They said the woman had done this in the past to mutual friends.

Randy Kelley resigns as Polson basketball coach

Pirates finished third at state in March

EPA nixes Montana’s new water quality standards

The Environmental Protection Agency thwarted Montana lawmakers’ attempt to loosen water quality standards yesterday, telling the state that it acted out of turn by adopting a new regulatory framework without first obtaining federal approval.

Man killed in accident at Koocanusa boat ramp

A man was killed Sunday after his truck and boat trailer was submerged in Lake Koocanusa near Libby following an apparent medical issue.

Suspect in Flathead Lake homicide arrested

A Polson man wanted for questioning regarding the death of the mother of his child was taken into custody in Lake County on Friday night.

Legals for May, 16 2022

Whitefish Council takes on contested rezone

Whitefish City Council on Monday will consider a rezone for a 7-acre piece of property near the end of Pheasant Run. The request has drawn opposition from residents of a nearby neighborhood due to density and traffic concerns.

Law roundup: Man chased out of library, threatened with knife

A man went to the Kalispell Police Department after a man wearing thick glasses and a bright orange jacket reportedly threatened a man with a knife and chased him out of the library and then went back inside.

Kalispell Council considers small fee for Evergreen sewer customers

The change is in response to the Evergreen Water and Sewer District instituting a new meter fee of $3 per account monthly for meter data from each of the sewer customers connected to water service.

Local Titanic expert gains large following telling tales of passengers on social media

Kaylee Jukich-Fish can’t remember what sparked her interest in the Titanic, the passenger liner that slipped into the North Atlantic after hitting an iceberg more than a century ago, but she does recall leaving questions about the sinking around her Kalispell home as a child.

Virginia Marnea Jones, 80

Virginia Marnea Jones, age 80, of Columbia Falls, is with the Lord. She passed away May 10, 2022 in Whitefish.

Gregory 'Greg' Walter Macijunas, 60

Gregory “Greg” Walter Macijunas passed away in his home on April 25, 2022, at the age of 60.

Lakers AA splits with Great Falls

Max Holden has four hits on the day

Lakers A down Great Falls Chargers

T.J. Hyack has a double, a triple and bats in two runs

CSKT River Honoring teaches kids about the landscape

MOIESE, Mont. (AP) — A sunlit field along the Flathead River outside of Moiese was home base for all kinds of student learning this week.

Man killed after recycling bin he sheltered in was picked up

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A man who apparently sought shelter in a cardboard recycling bin in Montana's capitol city was killed after the container was picked up by a garbage truck, the Helena Police Department said.

Canceled flights continue on Alaska

SEATTLE (AP) — The CEO of Alaska Airlines says the high level of flight cancellations since April will continue through this month. The Seattle Times reports that Ben Minicucci said in a message to employees Thursday evening that stability should return in June.

Blair Thomas Buckley, 62

Blair Thomas Buckley was born on Dec. 17, 1959, in Spencer, Iowa.

Sustainable growth requires reliable hydropower

When we’re floating and fishing on the stunning Three Forks of the Flathead River, we don’t always think about how our rivers are part of the Columbia River Basin’s headwaters.

Montanans' constitutional right to privacy

Last week we learned about the Supreme Court’s impending decision to strike down Roe v Wade and overturn half of a century of legal protection from the government interfering in our most personal and private decisions.

Musk puts Twitter buy on hold, casting doubt on $44B deal

Tesla billionaire Elon Musk tweeted early Friday that he wanted to pinpoint the number of spam and fake accounts on the social media platform. He has been vocal about his desire to clean up Twitter’s problem with “spam bots” that mimic real people, and he appeared to question whether Twitter was underreporting them.

Tax cut for proposed for California pot industry

LOS ANGELES (AP) — California’s governor on Friday proposed a tax cut for the state’s struggling legal marijuana industry, but businesses said it falls far short of what’s needed to revive a foundering pot economy.

Biden administration to release $45B for nationwide internet

The Biden administration is taking the first steps to release $45 billion to ensure that every U.S. resident has access to high-speed internet by roughly 2028, inviting governors and other leaders on Friday to start the application process.

Kimberly Hebert, 61

Kimberly Hebert, 61, of Hungry Horse died unexpectedly on April 30, 2022.

Phone troubles leave Essex residents feeling isolated, especially in times of emergency

For the better part of a decade, CenturyLink customers in Essex have dealt with everything from dropped calls and excessive static to ignored repair requests and complete lack of service for days and even weeks at a time. With cell phone coverage nearly nonexistent in the area, residents are often left with no way to reach the outside world.

Boy Scout Troop 1933 celebrates 50 years

Sponsored by the Kalispell Rotary Club, Troop 1933 was chartered in 1972 and is currently one of the oldest troops in the state, but the history of Boy Scouts in Kalispell goes back much further.

Let the specialists conduct school elections

Kalispell’s School District 5 last week asked county election officials to handle future school elections — a wise inquiry given the unfortunate errors made with getting ballots to voters during the May 3 election.

Marcus Eugene Carlson, 72

Marcus Eugene Carlson, 72, of Kalispell, died on Jan. 21, 2022, in Phoenix from complications after a double lung transplant due to IPF.

Mark Kerrick Murray, 65

Mark Kerrick Murray passed away Tuesday May 3, 2022 in Kalispell.

David Franklin Maurer, 88

David Franklin Maurer passed peacefully Wednesday, May 11, 2022, age 88, in Kalispell, after an extended period of declining health. He was a man of integrity and will be deeply missed.

Flathead Lake Resort offers vintage glamping experience

Before taking over management of Flathead Lake Resort, Brittain Kovac and her husband, Josh Shuckman, had been full-time RVing and traveled much of the world. Kovac visited the valley for the first time in July of 2020 and instantly fell in love with the community and the picturesque vistas.

Perseverance grew Glacier Hops Ranch into award-winning exporter

What started as an experiment planting 46 different varieties of hops on a 30-acre field nearly a decade ago has now turned into a thriving agricultural wholesale business that has exported products to over 50 countries.

To make housing more affordable, remove government barriers

A recent op-ed in the Daily Inter Lake argued that reforming local zoning codes won’t fix the housing crisis.

Legals for May, 15 2022

Taking the long way home

Nine years ago, after my husband had completed work on an 18-month job in New Jersey, I flew out there to join him on a cross-country road trip back to Montana

Gary George Gunderson, 82

Gary George Gunderson, 82, passed away peacefully in Kalispell, on March 23, 2022, surrounded by his dearest family. His most treasured times were gathered with loved ones in the presence of God, and he knew this to be true in his final hours.

Donald A. Garberg, 76

Donald A. Garberg passed away on April 21, 2022, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead Valley businesses

Letters to the editor May 15

Letters to the editor May 15

Flathead Business Watercooler

Events happening for Flathead Valley businesses

Black and Blue rules again

New faces that are familiar in other sports showed up for the Black and Blue this spring, and helped keep up the Flathead Valley rugby club’s winning ways.

Whitefish tennis programs finish season undefeated

WHITEFISH — Whitefish’s Lauren Brown won a marquee match against Corvallis’ Dakota Powell Saturday, to help the Bulldogs to a 4-3 win and an undefeated 14-0 season for the first time in program history.

Bigfork sweeps District track titles on own oval

BIGFORK — Chloe Raats won the 200 and 400, Lily Tanko swept the hurdles races and Bigfork’s girls ran away with the team title at the District 7-B track and field meet, held on its own track Saturday.

Whitefish girls win Polson ABC title

POLSON — The Lady Bulldogs dominated the sprints and relays to win the team title at the Nelson-Thomas ABC Meet Saturday.

PHOTOS: Black and Blue boys rugby win state championship

The Kalispell Black and Blue boys rugby team took home a state championship title with a 12-0 win over the Missoula Mud Dogs at the State Rugby Tournament held at Glacier High School on Saturday, May 14.

Abortion rights supporters hold Kalispell rally

Women and men, young and old, students and children, gathered at Depot Park in Kalispell on Saturday to join the national Women’s March — Bans off our Bodies rally.

McDonald's to sell its Russian business, try to keep workers

McDonald's says it's started the process of selling its Russian business, which includes 850 restaurants that employ 62,000 people. The fast food giant pointed to the humanitarian crisis caused by the war, saying holding on to its business in Russia "is no longer tenable, nor is it consistent with McDonald's values."

Mission Valley outlasts Twins in 11 innings

WHITEFISH — Dawson Dumont drove in three runs without benefit of a hit, and Mission Valley’s pitching stymied the Glacier Twins in a 6-3 Class A Legion baseball win that took 11 innings Friday.

Census undercount threatens federal food and health programs on reservations

The 2020 census missed nearly 1 of every 17 Native Americans who live on reservations, an undercount that could very well lead to insufficient federal funding for essential health, nutrition, and social programs in remote communities with high poverty rates and scarce access to services.

How Montana ski areas are adapting to the climate crisis

With less snow in the future, Bridger Bowl, Big Sky Resort and others work to lessen the impacts and adjust to changing seasons.

Idaho announces $119 million settlement over opioid crisis

Idaho officials on Friday announced a $119 million settlement with drugmaker Johnson & Johnson and three major distributors over their role in the opioid addiction crisis.

Whitefish to require bear-resistant garbage containers

Whitefish residents will slowly transition to using animal-resistant trash containers over the next few months. The new contract between the city and Republic Services means customers will now have individual 95-gallon bear-resistant containers picked up curbside and will see their garbage rates increase by $5.97 a month.

‘Come Home Montana’ push collides with housing angst

Since Gov. Greg Gianforte took office, the commerce department has embarked on a massive “Come Home Montana” promotional campaign, launching a website last summer, buying social media ads, and sending out a series of mailers designed to entice former residents to return.

Four titles highlight Bobcats’ Friday showing at Big Sky Championships

POCATELLO, Idaho – The Montana State track and field program combined for eight all-conference performances, including four gold medals, as the Bobcats completed the third day at the Big Sky Conference Outdoor Championships at Davis Field on Friday.

Griz garner pair of individual titles, school record on Day 3 of Championships

POCATELLO, Idaho – Montana had a memorable day at the Big Sky Conference Outdoor Track & Field Championships on Friday, winning two individual titles and setting a school record in another event.

Whitefish, Northwest A teams wrap up conference tennis

WHITEFISH — The Whitefish tennis teams wrapped up Northwest A conference play with dual wins over Polson and Ronan on Friday.

Lady Griz assistant Sullivan leaving for Utah position

Jordan Sullivan, a Montana Lady Griz standout who spent the past five seasons as an assistant coach in the program, is leaving for a similar job at the University of Utah, UM announced Thursday.

Columbia Falls splits pair at Combo tourney

BUTTE — Abbie Darsow had three hits and drove in four runs, and Columbia Falls started off the Laverne Combo Memorial softball tournament with a 12-1 thumping of Livingston Friday.

PHOTOS: Flathead Valley Community College's 54th commencement ceremony

Flathead Valley Community College held its 54th commencement ceremony on the school's campus in Kalispell on Friday, May 13. A total of 304 graduates earned 319 degrees and certificates.

Two Medicine, Bowman roads open in Glacier

Glacier National Park this week opened the Two Medicine Road and Bowman Lake Road to motor vehicles for the season.

FVCC honors graduates during 54th commencement ceremony

Flathead Valley Community College will honor nearly 300 students at its 54th annual commencement Friday. All graduation activities take place on the FVCC campus in Kalispell beginning at 6 p.m. to celebrate the 298 students earning 313 degrees and certificates.

Flathead High awards its first varsity letters in science

Three students recently received the first varsity letters awarded for excellence in Science Club at Flathead High School.

Law roundup: Wild, wild horses near Smith Lake Road

A caller phoned in a report of a pair of horses running free down Smith Lake Road. Headed toward Whalebone Drive, the duo lacked bridle or tack, the individual told dispatchers. They looked untamed to the caller, who did not say whether the wild horses could drag them away or if they would ride them some day.

Absentee ballots for primary election sent out

Absentee ballots for primary election sent out

Parce stresses community involvement in bid for commissioner seat

After years in uniform, Jason Parce looks at potentially joining the Flathead County Commission as the natural extension of his career, particularly given his on-the-ground view of the region’s rapid change.

Legals for May, 13 2022

Kalispell Public Schools asks county to handle future election

Flathead County’s largest school district — Kalispell Public Schools — is formally requesting the county handle its election in 2023.

Man who allegedly threatened to kill dispensary employee pleads not guilty

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State officials, community leaders honor opening of Somers Beach State Park

Efforts to turn the property into public land have been ongoing for many years but officially took off when FWP acquired the 106-acre beach property in October 2021.

Pack sweeps crosstown

Glacier swept Flathead in crosstown tennis Thursday at FVCC, the last competition before Northern AA Divisionals next week.

Four double-winners take Flathead to victory

WHITEFISH — Brody Thornsberry swept the boys 100 and 200, and Dylan Zink, Taliana Miller and Lilli Rumsey Eash also won twice as Flathead won both sides of a track and field meet in Whitefish Thursday.

Bernhardt, Krause, Hensley highlight Glacier’s home dual

A hurdles sweep by Glacier’s Caleb Bernhardt was among the highlights of the track and field dual held Thursday between the host Wolfpack and Class A Columbia Falls.

Wolfpack softball shuts down Hellgate 15-0

Sammie Labrum hit two home runs and Paishance Haller hit another as Glacier downed winless Missoula Hellgate 15-0 Thursday in Western AA softball.

Foresti, Hoxie lead Polson netters to sweep of Ronan

POLSON — Polson swept Ronan in a tennis dual Thursday, with Camilla Foresti leading the way for the Lady Pirates.

'Like an inferno:' Western US burning at furious pace so far

Wildfires are on a furious pace early this year — from a California hilltop where mansions with multimillion-dollar Pacific Ocean views were torched to remote New Mexico mountains charred by a month-old monster blaze.

U.S. reckoning with role in Native American boarding schools

Deb Haaland is pushing the U.S. government to reckon with its role in Native American boarding schools like no other Cabinet secretary could — backed by personal experience, a struggle with losing her own Native language and a broader community that has felt the devastating impacts.

Powell: 'Soft' economic landing may be out of Fed's control

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, fresh off winning Senate confirmation for a second term earlier in the day, acknowledged for the first time Thursday that high inflation and economic weakness overseas could thwart his efforts to avoid causing a recession.

Randy Weaver, participant in Ruby Ridge standoff, dies at 74

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) — Randy Weaver, patriarch of a family that was involved in an 11-day Idaho standoff with federal agents 30 years ago that left three people dead and helped spark the growth of anti-government extremists, has died at the age of 74.

J2B2 bluegrass band plays tonight at the O'Shaughnessy

Whitefish Theatre Company presents the John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band, aka J2B2, at 7:30 p.m. today, May 12, at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Elk study underway on Blackfeet lands, Glacier National Park

Visitors on the east side of Glacier National Park and the Blackfeet tribal lands may see elk wearing collars this year.

Law Roundup: Motorbikes too fast and too furious for one neighbor

A homeowner was less than thrilled with the children of a family new to their neighborhood. The two boys had quickly taken to riding up and down the nearby streets on motorbikes and at high speeds.

Authorities searching for homicide suspect from Polson

Law enforcement crews discovered the body of a Polson woman Wednesday in a Tribal wilderness area along the east shore of Flathead Lake and are searching for a man suspected in her death.

FHS Theatre sets out on swashbuckling adventure

The Flathead High School Theatre promises excitement, suspense, humor and, of course, pirates with one of the greatest swashbuckling stories of all time, “Treasure Island,” May 17 and 18 at 6:27 p.m. in the David M. Hashley Theatre at FHS.

Kalispell author publishes eighth book

Kalispell author Grace Larson has recently published her eighth book. “Dusk till Dawn in the Wild World,” is a compilation of short stories — some fiction, but most non-fiction.

Local author publishes new thriller

Local author Debbie Burke's seventh thriller, “Until Proven Guilty,” was published in March.

Somers Middle School stages 'Moana Jr.'

Somer Middle School’s tropical adventure “Disney’s Moana Jr.,” continues this weekend, with shows May 13 at 6:30 p.m. and May 14 at 2 p.m.

Events

Art, theater and entertainment events happening in the Flathead Valley

David Floyd Sizemore, 75

David Floyd Sizemore, 75, of Kalispell, passed away on Saturday, May 7, 2022, surrounded by his family.

Legals for May, 12 2022

Important discussions on a hard topic

As if Americans weren’t divided enough, the recent leak of the Supreme Court’s apparent decision on the fate of Roe v. Wade has added even more fuel to the fire, burning whatever political bridges still remain among us.

Artist’s work evokes emotional response to nature

KALICO Art Center’s newest exhibition is Fluid Landscapes: Memories of the North” by Jaimé Bell.

McGarry allegedly strangled girlfriend prior to standoff

Aaron Martin McGarry, 34, faces felony theft and strangulation of a partner or family member charges in Flathead County District Court. He is currently in the county jail. His arraignment is set for May 19.

Holmquist says she wants to continue serving the county

Flathead County Commissioner Pam Holmquist says she wants to continue serving her community as she seeks her third term in county government.

Letters to the editor May 12

Letters to the editor May 12

Gallery exhibit showcases blue pine furniture

Phillips Studio & Gallery is featuring a “Montana Blues” exhibit of furniture made with solid blue pine lumber by designer and craftsman Doug Hammerberg of Whispering Peaks Woodcrafts.

Flathead’s Zink sees familiar faces all around his favorite event

Dylan Zink can look at the rankings on athletic.net and see all the talented triple jumpers on this side of the Continental Divide.

Glacier senior Kauffman leads AA in triple jump

There was a time when Tate Kauffman was strictly an 800-400 runner, and it was fine. Not superlative, but fine.

Foss, MacDonald power Loggers’ win over Lions

LIBBY — Mackenzie Foss homered and drove in six runs, Paislee MacDonald went 5-for-5 and scored drive times and Libby outscored Eureka 17-7 in non-conference softball Tuesday.

AA tennis: Kersten leads Bravettes to tie with Great Falls

Alexis Kersten, Patricia Hinchey, and Isabella Parrott each won a pair of matches for the Bravettes in tennis duals with Great Falls High and C.M. Russell on Tuesday at FVCC.

New Montana state record longnose sucker

For the third time in less than 15 months, a Montana angler has caught a new state record longnose sucker.

Dems' bid to secure Roe v. Wade falls to GOP-led filibuster

The Senate fell far short Wednesday in a rushed effort toward enshrining Roe v. Wade abortion access as federal law, blocked by a Republican filibuster in a blunt display of the nation's partisan divide over the landmark court decision and the limits of legislative action.

Flathead commissioners turn down health officer applicant

Flathead County Commissioners on Tuesday decided to continue the search for a new health officer.

Glacier National Park names Roemer new Superintendent

The National Park Service has named David Roemer the new Superintendent of Glacier National Park.

U.S. overdose deaths hit record 107,000 last year, CDC says

NEW YORK (AP) — More than 107,000 Americans died of drug overdoses last year, setting another tragic record in the nation's escalating overdose epidemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated Wednesday.

OSHA proposes $454,000 fine in oil drilling site explosion

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigators have determined that an oil company's failure to take adequate safety precautions contributed to a drilling site explosion near Grassy Butte last November that permanently disabled one worker and left two others with serious injuries.

Friess sees rapidly growing county at a crossroads

Brian Friess, one of four Republicans running for the sole county commissioner seat up for grabs this year, said the region’s rapid growth in recent years as well as an increase in what he sees as federal overreach into local matters propelled him into the race.

Thomas Joseph Graff, 78

Thomas Joseph Graff, born Oct. 4, 1943, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, passed peacefully Feb, 28, 2022, in Kalispell.

Jon Elliott, 80

Jon Elliott's wandering days are a thing of the past. His life on earth ended the day after he went body surfing in Mazatlan and sipped his favorite Mexican Reposado one last time on April 29, 2022.

Man already facing felony theft charge accused of stealing vehicle

A man accused in April of stealing more than $6,000 in tools and equipment from a Kalispell shed is back in county jail after allegedly boosting a car while out on pretrial release. Nathaniel Ray Warner, 25, is being held in the Flathead County Detention Center on a $40,000 bond.

Property manager pleads not guilty to rape charge

The manager of a low-income housing unit in Kalispell accused of using the threat of eviction to rape a woman in 2021 has pleaded not guilty in Flathead County District Court. Richard Gordon Dilka, 34, was arraigned May 5 on a single count of felony sexual intercourse without consent before Judge Heidi Ulbricht.

Planning board considers minor change to work camp regs

The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday will consider a change that looks to resolve a conflict in the timeline for approving work camps in the West Glacier area.

Local teams place at app challenge event

The work local teams from Kalispell, Whitefish and Columbia Falls put in to develop apps addressing serious issues affecting teens earned them second and third at the virtual Northwest Regional App Challenge.

Law roundup: Women get into rhubarb at farmers market

Two women reportedly got into a spat at the farmers market when one of them parked next to the other’s vehicle and hit it when they opened their door.

Panel explores relationship between music and wellness

Panel explores relationship between music and wellness

Legals for May, 11 2022

Wildkats top Browning 20-0 in short game

COLUMBIA FALLS — Maddie Moultray capped Columbia Falls’ 10-run first inning with a grand slam Tuesday, and the Wildkats downed Browning 20-0 in a Northwest A softball game shortened to 2 ½ innings.

Wolfpack netters split with Great Falls schools

Against Great Falls, the Glacier boys swept 8-0, and the girls 5-2 (scores for one match were not available). CMR topped the Wolfpack girls 6-2, and the boys 7-1.

Western B golf: Bigfork girls, Eureka boys earn state berths

Vikings’ Wade fires 75, loses in playoff

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS — Bigfork’s girls team earned a spot at State, and so did the Eureka boys at the Western B Divisional golf tournament on Tuesday.

Polson too much for Bravettes

POLSON — Carli Maley homered and drove in seven runs, and Class A power Polson topped AA Flathead 15-5 in a softball game shortened to five innings by the mercy rule.

Standoff in Kalispell ends in arrest

A local man is in custody following an hours-long standoff involving the Kalispell Special Response Team and regional SWAT on Liberty Street on Tuesday.

New workgroup is paving the way for more election legislation in 2023

State lawmakers, county election administrators and the Montana Association of Counties have established an unpublicized informal workgroup to examine Montana’s current election processes and discuss opportunities to enhance the election system ahead of the next legislative session.

Montana child care providers, families, demonstrate for equity, better pay

On Monday, some 25 people gathered at the Missoula County Courthouse lawn for the Day Without Child Care Strike, joining child care workers and supporters at Kalispell’s Depot Park and across the country to call for living wages for providers, affordable care for all families, and an equitable child care system “built on racial justice.”

Court hearing: Did Biden legally suspend oil lease sales?

A federal appeals court in New Orleans hears arguments Tuesday about whether President Joe Biden legally suspended new oil and gas lease sales shortly after taking office because of climate change worries.

Letters to the editor May 10

Letters to the editor May 10

Law roundup: Alleged vendetta delivered instead of package

A man allegedly went into a long spiel with an officer about a delivery service company not holding a package containing $800 in goods at their facility until he could pick it up and was adamant the matter was criminal, not civil, in nature and wanted to report it as a theft. He purportedly believed one of the managers was purposely trying to “deprive him of

Housing and commercial development goes to Kalispell planning board

A youth center, hotel, gas station, restaurant and housing are among the uses in a development proposed for roughly 40 acres on the north end of Kalispell. The property located at the corner of Church Drive and U.S. 93 is undeveloped and lies just north of Silverbrook Estates.

Fallon plans to apply volunteer, financial experience to county spot

Jack Fallon is looking to parlay his decades of community involvement into a seat on the Flathead County Commission. The 68-year-old has served on the Evergreen Water and Sewer Board, the Evergreen Fire District Board, and the Kalispell School District Board and while also volunteering with youth and adult recreation leagues.

John Michel ‘Mike’ Horn, 79

John Michel “Mike” Horn, the son of John and Ruth Horn, was born Sept. 13, 1942, in Kalispell.

Legals for May, 10 2022

To refine water forecasts, Western cities map snow by plane

At a tiny airport surrounded by mountains, a three-person crew takes off for the inaugural flight above the headwaters of the Colorado River to measure the region's snow by air.

Ronan-raised UM theater grad fashions future in costume design

MISSOULA – University of Montana graduating senior Morgan Brooks’ budding career in the theater started in a rather unconventional way – through 4-H.

Kayaker dies after falling into Yaak River

A 50-year-old Idaho man died after falling out of his kayak on the Yaak River near Troy on Sunday.

Kalispell’s proposed budget impacted by inflation

The City of Kalispell’s preliminary budget looks to manage inflationary pressures by dipping into reserve funds but also calls for an increase in total expenditures. The total preliminary budget for fiscal year 2023 is just over $111 million. This compares with last fiscal year’s budget of $104 million.

Law roundup: Man found peeking by buildings

A man was purportedly seen peeking behind some buildings by a woman who said he then ducked behind a tree.

Legals for May, 9 2022

Letters to the editor May 9

Letters to the editor May 9

Births

Trysten Jaren Henriod, son of Amy and Caleb Henroid of Kalispell, was born on April 2, 2022, at Logan Health Whitefish.

Library foundation’s new executive director ready for challenges ahead

New ImagineIF Library Foundation Executive Director Adam Tunnell is eager to help facilitate the needs of the library system and its patrons.

Lakers AA roll past Bitterroot Red Sox

Lakers A split with Havre Northstars 18U

Montana state senator and U.S. House candidate dies

Montana state senator and U.S. House candidate dies

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events happening in the Flathead Valley

Schafer’s Restaurant looks to make a new home at Eagle Bend

The award-winning Schafer’s Restaurant is set to move into the new Eagle Bend Golf Course Clubhouse this summer. Schafer’s co-owners David May and Robert Wink say they are excited to share familiar favorites with an elevated dining experience.

Legals for May, 8 2022

Law roundup: Man’s rude behavior needs removal

A man was allegedly spraying weeds for a neighbor in Whitefish with the owner’s permission when someone came out and confronted him by getting in his face and saying he was on the wrong property.

Wolfpack boys, Bravettes win Archie Roe

Saturday was windy at times, rainy at others, and there was plenty of the usual at the 43rd renewal of the Archie Roe Invitational track and field meet at Legends Stadium.

Our constitution is clear — let people vote

My grandfather Melvin Running Wolf was only 36 years old when all Native Americans finally gained the right to vote in the United States.

Mack Webb Dettmann, 48

Mack Dettmann, 48, passed away at home on April 30, 2022.

Shirley Ann Emslie, 88

Shirley Ann Emslie, 88, passed away on May 4, 2022, peacefully in her sleep.

Letters to the editor May 8

Letters to the editor May 8

Prosecutors: Kalispell woman helped launder money from fraud schemes

Theresa Anne Chabot, 57, faces charges of operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, conspiracy to commit money laundering, 17 counts of money laundering promotion and 11 counts of money laundering spending.

Flathead backyard poultry producers helping fight the spread of avian flu

Flathead's backyard poultry producers are taking precautions to help stop the spread of a new strain of avian flu that is decimating flocks around the country.

New furniture store aims to create comfortable living spaces

Sarah Sitar started Quietude Home in mid-February to provide the community with modern furniture including chairs, benches, bookcases, coffee and console tables, sofas, dining furniture, dressers, desks and more. Sitar enjoys simple, clean lines and warm, safe spaces which is what inspired the name Quietude.

FVCC’s Class of 2022 resilient and determined

Flathead Valley Community College will celebrate the class of 2022 at our 54th annual commencement ceremony on the FVCC campus in Kalispell on Friday, May 13 at 6 p.m.

Love of trees takes root

Kalispell Parks and Recreation pulled out all the stops for the 150-year anniversary of the tree-dedicated day in the United States.

Slow rollout of MMIP commission unacceptable

Members of a long-awaited federal commission tasked with addressing the crisis of missing and murdered Native Americans was finally announced Thursday by Interior Secretary Deb Haaland.

Impacts of inflation on the community and food banks

While the current rate of inflation is affecting all of us, it once again hits our low-income neighbors the hardest.

Railroaders quit after BNSF institutes ‘draconian’ attendance policy

Brady Wassam knew what to expect when he took a job on the railroad. Wassam, 30, of Columbia Falls, came from a family of railroaders who have spent years moving freight over the mountains of northwest Montana.

‘Rock snot’ algae blooms hurting Kootenai River fishery

On an overcast day in mid-June last year, Jim Dunnigan, dam mitigation coordinator for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, stood on a concrete embankment overlooking the Kootenai River near Libby.

C-Falls sees strong demand for commercial real estate

Those are just some of the commercial properties that have come up for sale in the past few months as the real estate boom in and around Columbia Falls continues.

They’ll play: Western schools excited for MHSA baseball

The Montana High School Association’s addition of baseball as a spring sport brought with it a big dose of enthusiasm tempered with a splash of realism.

AA Lakers split pair in Helena

HELENA — Kostya Hoffman threw five solid innings and backed his own pitching with four runs batted in as Kalispell AA Lakers downed Bozeman 15-3 in Legion baseball Saturday. The Lakers went 1-1 in a round-robin that included the host Helena Senators, who won 9-1 later Saturday.

C-Falls, Whitefish netters beat Libby

Columbia Falls swept Libby in a pair of tennis duals, as did Whitefish Saturday at the FVCC courts.

PHOTOS: 43rd Archie Roe Invitational track and field meet

Scenes from the 43rd Archie Roe Invitational track and field meet at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Saturday, May 7.

Glacier Park's Camas Road, Quarter Circle Bridge Road open to vehicles

Glacier National Park has opened the Camas Road and the Quarter Circle Bridge Road to motor vehicles.

Legals for May, 7 2022

Man accused of raping, sexually assaulting teen girls out on bail

William James Pillans, 25, was released from the Flathead County Detention Center on May 5. His attorney, Maury Solomon, earlier in the day successfully petitioned District Judge Amy Eddy to lower bail from $150,000 to $25,000.

In abortion fight, conservatives push to end all exceptions

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Angela Housley was halfway through her pregnancy when she learned the fetus was developing without parts of its brain and skull and would likely die within hours or days of birth, if it survived that long.

Montana State researchers documenting state's bee population

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — Just off south 19th Avenue near Montana State University is an unassuming building that houses seven rooms filled with the Montana Entomology Collection, some specimens dating back over 100 years.

Panel to focus on Native American missing, slain cases

Nearly 40 law enforcement officials, tribal leaders, social workers and survivors of violence have been named to a federal commission tasked with helping improve how the government addresses a decades-long crisis of missing and murdered Native Americans and Alaska Natives, U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland announced Thursday.

Kalispell FFA wins state championship

The Kalispell FFA chapter earned the state championship title for their overall performance in recent career development event competitions.

C-Falls shuts out Libby

COLUMBIA FALLS — Maddie Moultray threw a five-inning three-hitter and Columbia Falls downed Libby 10-0 Friday to stay atop the Northwest A softball standings.

Helena outduels Kernan, Wolfpack

HELENA — Alli Kernan threw a complete game but got outdueled by two Helena High pitchers in the Bengals’ 4-2 win over Glacier in Western AA softball Friday.

Flathead falls to first-place Capital

HELENA — Flathead managed one hit in a 10-0 loss to Helena Capital in a Western AA softball contest Friday at Kidsports.

Rangers locate climber's body on Alaska's Denali

National park rangers in Alaska on Friday located the body of the year's first registered climber on North America's tallest peak.

4 more men charged in plot to steal ammo from Air Force base

SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) — An Air Force staff sergeant facing allegations of making violent, antigovernment statements online before stealing ammunition from Fairchild Air Force Base has pleaded not guilty to additional crimes in federal court in Spokane.

Applied Materials formally marks opening of Evergreen facility in former Shopko building

The manufacturer’s Evergreen facility is expected to bring as many as 200 jobs to the region. Word of the expansion, eagerly anticipated by local officials and business organizations, first broke in fall of last year.

Bruce Emmett Ewing, 68

Bruce Emmett Ewing passed on March 11, 2022, surrounded by his wife Renee and children Erin and Rob.

Law roundup: Make way for ducklings

The Kalispell Police Department received word of a group of ducks headed down the road. The person who spotted the waterfowl described them as a mama duck and 10 ducklings. They worried that the birds would get hit by a car.

Forest Service quietly seeks comment on 23 special use permits

Trail running tours. ATV tours. Even a business that wants to transport docks out to private landowners on Swan Lake.

Sweem pleads not guilty to negligent vehicular assault, obstructing a peace officer

Appearing cuffed and in a detention center uniform, Gunnar Thomas Sweem, 21, sat stone-faced as his attorney entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.

Ecologist guest speaker at Audubon meeting

Freshwater ecologist Tom Bansak will be the guest speaker at Flathead Audubon’s Monday, May 9, potluck meeting at the Gateway Community Room.

Whitefish Community Foundation hosts leadership workshop

Whitefish Community Foundation will host an online workshop Thursday, May 12, with national business consultant Andy Robinson on the topic of managing change and leadership transitions. The workshop is part of the foundation’s Nonprofit Development Partnership program.

Legals for May, 6 2022

Today's Achievers, Tomorrow's Leaders: Flathead student is self-starter motivated by helping people in need

Jillian Wynne is a self-starter when it comes to applying her talents to help out the community and take on leadership roles. The thoughtful and articulate Flathead High School senior was honored as a Today’s Achiever, Tomorrow’s Leader honoree.

Logan Health hosts kids safety day Saturday

The Logan Health-sponsored Spring Into Safety Kids’ Day will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at the Trade Center at the Northwest Montana Fairgrounds. This event is free and open to the whole family.

Barbara Dora (Schneider) Kasperson, 94

Barbara Dora (Schneider) Kasperson passed away on April 30, 2022, in Raymond, Alberta, at the age of 94.

James Marvin Rishoff, 74

James Marvin Rishoff, also known as J.R., was born on Sept. 5, 1947, in Shelby, Montana, to parents Marvin Edward Rishoff and Irene (Gustina) Rishoff.

Flathead High student named Presidential Scholar semifinalist

Jillian Wynne of Flathead High School is one of six students in Montana and about 650 candidates nationwide to reach semifinalist status in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

Rensel hits 3 homers, Darsow 2 in Wildkats’ rout

RONAN — Demye Rensel hit three home runs and Abbie Darsow slugged two more Thursday, leading Columbia Falls over Ronan 16-6 in a Northwest A softball battle.

Spartans down Bravettes, 13-2

Emma Ries homered and scored three runs, and two Missoula Sentinel pitchers held Flathead to six hits in the Spartans’ 13- 2 win over the Bravettes in Western AA softball Thursday.

Bulldogs top Wildcats in tennis dual

COLUMBIA FALLS — It was the boys’ turn to play Thursday as Whitefish visited Columbia Falls for a tennis dual. Whitefish won 6-1, with Aaron Dicks leading the way for a Bulldogs sweep of singles

Big innings lift Big Sky over Wolfpack

Two big innings by Missoula Big Sky doomed the Glacier softball squad Thursday, in the Eagles’ 13-9 Western AA win over the Wolfpack.

Senate to vote next week on protecting abortion rights

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate will vote next week on legislation that would codify abortion rights into federal law as Democrats mount their response to the Supreme Court's leaked draft decision that would overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade ruling.

A closer look at CI-121 opposition

Capping Montana’s double digit property tax increases on homeowners would seem a no-brainer issue for legislative candidates. Not so. The focus of Republicans and Democrats alike is on protecting the cash flow to government and placating moneyed special interests.

Montana’s Declaration of Rights should be protected

Fifty years ago I was unbelievably blessed to be the research staff for the Declaration of Rights Committee of the Montana Constitutional Convention.

Documentary directed by Blackfeet/Salish tribe member

A new documentary from a resident of the Flathead Reservation that profiles a Missoula woman’s quest to reconnect with her birth mother and her Native culture is coming to the series “America ReFramed” on WORLD Channel this month.

Letters to the editor May 5

Letters to the editor May 5

0505 TWIF briefs

Whitefish Gallery Nights

Local artist Karen Leigh featured at Phillips Studio

Known for her highly detailed watercolor paintings of Montana life and scenery, Karen Leigh is an award-winning artist whose art continues to appeal to broad audiences.

The John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band performs in Whitefish

Whitefish Theatre Company presents the John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band, aka J2B2, at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 12, at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Law roundup: Sofa goes ‘couch surfing’

Kalispell Police Department received a report of a couch sitting in a street that was taking up parking. The person calling in

Glacier Park announces 2022-2023 Artists-in-Residence

Glacier National Park has chosen the Artists-in-Residence for summer 2022 and 2023.

Kalispell OK’s grant application for West Reserve Drive

Council on Monday approved a resolution for the grant application to be submitted to the U.S. Department of Transportation Multimodal Project Discretionary Grant. The city is submitting the grant in cooperation with the Montana Department of Transportation.

C-Falls man accused of raping child in 2020

Prosecutors have charged a Columbia Falls man with sexual intercourse without consent for allegedly raping a child in 2020.

Barbara Dora (Schneider) Kasperson, 94

Barbara Dora (Schneider) Kasperson passed away on April 30, 2022, in Raymond, Alberta, at the age of 94.

Glacier Symphony’s Spring Festival continues with Mozart and Mahler

The Glacier Symphony and Maestro John Zoltek return to the stage for the second concert of the Spring Festival May 14 and 15, showcasing the music of Gustav Mahler and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Somers Middle School sets sail in “Moana Jr.”

Make way for the tropical adventure of “Disney’s Moana Jr.,” brought to life at Somers Middle School Friday, May 6, at 6:30 p.m., and Saturday, May 7, at 2 p.m., with performances continuing for a second week of shows May 13 at 6:30 p.m. and May 14 at 2 p.m.

Summer ArtFest takes place June 22 to 25 in Whitefish

Inspired with building community in mind, the Summer ArtFest show plans to expand into a four-day annual event encompassing all art forms and spread throughout the downtown Whitefish area with the main events held at the O'Shaughnessy Cultural Arts Center in Whitefish.

Slideshow showcases famed photographer E.B. Gilliland

After a six-month delay, the Northwest Montana History Museum presents a much anticipated slide show of the E.B. Gilliland Photography Collection.

World-class Montana skiers highlighted in film

Montana PBS will screen the film “Mavericks” by Kelly Gorham and Scott Sterling at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Legals for May, 5 2022

Twins 1-hit Libby in 16-2 victory

WHITEFISH — Jake McIntyre homered and drove in five ruins, and three Glacier pitchers combined on a one-hitter in the Twins’ 16-2 win over Libby in Class A Legion baseball Wednesday.

A different track for Whitefish's Gabe Menicke

To hear Whitefish track coach Willie Roche tell it, Gabe Menicke’s emergence from the pandemic was something like watching a caterpillar in chrysalis. “I mean, if you saw him pre-Covid, you were like, ‘Who’s the twig,’ you know?,” Roche said.

Sugar Ray, Iceman and a nerd alert

George Gervin started his professional career in something called the Continental Basketball Association, which is where Micheal Richardson more or less ended up. The CBA ended in 2009, and Richardson — the former Griz hoop standout with the meteoric NBA career — spent the last two years of its existence coaching the Lawton-Fort Sill (Okla.) Cavalry.

Bigfork Water and Sewer Board incumbents retain seats

Incumbents on the Bigfork Water and Sewer Board retained their seats following Tuesday’s election.

How higher Fed rates stand to affect Americans' finances

WASHINGTON (AP) — Record-low mortgages below 3% are long gone. Credit card rates will likely rise. So will the cost of an auto loan.

Montana CI-121 off to a slow start

Proponents of Constitutional Initiative 121 are off to a slow start, with few signatures collected and little money raised.

Board votes against hiring health officer candidate

Expressing concerns about a lack of experience, the Flathead City-County Board of Health on Tuesday recommended against hiring the sole candidate for county health officer.

Gianforte presses to extinguish all fires in 2022 Montana wildfire briefing

Gov. Greg Gianforte asked land managers for their commitment to aggressive initial attack to extinguish all wildfires at a 2022 wildfire briefing in Helena on Monday.

Law Roundup: Trio reportedly beats man, locks him in office

Someone called the Kalispell Police Department to report three men allegedly beat a fourth man who they locked in an office.

Parent arrested after allegedly threatening school administrator

A parent faces a felony intimidation charge for allegedly threatening to kill an Evergreen School District administrator after they denied her contact with her child, whom she lacked custody of.

Warren Carl Ortman, 99

Warren Carl Ortman passed away April 30, 2022.

Dawgs sweep Cats in dual

COLUMBIA FALLS — In the schools’ second dual this spring, Whitefish earned the sweep over Columbia Falls at the Mike Nicosia Cat-Dog on Tuesday.

Nancy Carol MacDonald, 70

Nancy Carol MacDonald passed away in her Whitefish home on Tuesday April, 12, 2022, shortly after celebrating her 70th birthday.

Whitefish netters top Wildkats

COLUMBIA FALLS — The Whitefish and Columbia Falls girls competed in a tennis dual Tuesday, and the Bulldogs won 6-1.

Bravette track wins Tri with Knights, Spartans

The host Bravettes won their own triangular track and field meet at Legends Stadium Tuesday, winning four individual events and one relay on the way to 64 points. Defending AA champion Missoula Sentinel was next with 59 ½, and Missoula Hellgate was two points further back.

Legals for May, 4 2022

Doris Leanne (Jones) Dey, 83

Doris Leanne (Jones) Dey, 83, passed peacefully at home in Missoula April 21, 2022.

Kalispell Council approves housing projects

Kalispell City Council on Monday approved requests for two housing projects. One plans to construct a senior affordable housing complex proposal adjacent to the Gateway Community Center. The second project calls for a 37-lot residential subdivision on the east side of Jefferson Boulevard.

2022 school election results

Preliminary (unofficial) results from school election night Tuesday, May 3, 2022. Results will be updated as they become available.

April was coldest on record for Kalispell

With an average temperature of 36.3 degrees, last month was the coldest April on record in Kalispell.

Grizzly bear confirmed in central Montana mountains

Montana wildlife officials on Tuesday confirmed recent evidence of a grizzly bear roaming in central Montana.

Supreme Court draft suggests Roe could be overturned

A draft opinion suggests the U.S. Supreme Court could be poised to overturn the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade case that legalized abortion nationwide, according to a Politico report.

Legals for May, 3 2022

Sam A. Middleton, 83

Sam A. Middleton went to be with his Lord and Savior, Wednesday, April 27, 2022, at home with family.

Doug Fraley, 57

Doug Fraley, 57, peacefully passed away Tuesday, April 19, 2022, at his home in Bigfork.

Law roundup: Man can ‘rest easy’ that combat knife not murder weapon

Someone reportedly called the Kalispell Police Department to report finding a “potential murder weapon” in the form of a 6-inch blade the caller believed was intentionally dropped in a storm drain located in a parking lot.

Letters to the editor May 3

Letters to the editor May 3

Flathead High to honor Hodge’s 50th coaching year

Coach became a track assistant in 1973

Pirates split with Havre on tennis courts

Polson girls down Blue Ponies, 6-1

Missoula police not criminally responsible for Galbreath’s death, jury finds

A Missoula jury on Friday cleared a city police officer of criminal wrongdoing in the death of Brendon Galbreath, 21, after video footage showed the man shooting himself following a high-speed car chase with police.

As wildfire closes in, New Mexico residents prepare to flee

LAS VEGAS, N.M. (AP) — Wind-whipped flames raced across more of New Mexico's pine-covered mountainsides on Monday, closing in on a town of 13,000 people where residents hurried to pack their cars with belongings, others raced to clear brush from around their homes, and police were called in to help evacuate the state's psychiatric hospital.

NTSB investigating deadly West Valley plane crash

An investigator with the federal agency arrived on scene May 1, said Jennifer Gabris, NTSB spokesperson. A preliminary report on the crash is expected within the next two weeks, she said.

Poop on public lands a problem

“Go before you go.” That’s the advice Glacier National Park’s Bradley Blickhan has for hikers heading up a trail. Translation? Go to the bathroom before you go on your adventure.

Legals for May, 2 2022

Births

Lucia Maria Reyna, daughter of Danielle Adams and Chris Reyna of Kalispell, was born on April 23, 2022, at Logan Health Medical Center.

Whitefish looks to require bear-resistant trash containers

City Council on Monday is set to vote on an amendment to its agreement with its garbage contractor, Republic Services, that would require all residential properties to make the switch to bear-resistent containers. The move would mean an increase in cost for garbage service of about $6 per month.

Letters to the editor May 2

Letters to the editor May 2

Flathead teacher realizes dream of career in classroom

When Pat Reilly lost his job during the last economic recession, he returned to college as a nontraditional student earning his teaching degree. Now after 10 years in the classroom at Flathead High School he’s preparing to retire.

Glenden Philip Wicklund

Glenden Philip Wicklund passed away on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, at his home in Kalispell.

Ronan’s girls win basketball trip through ‘Alaskan Nets’ documentary

The Ronan basketball teams are headed to Alaska.

Lakers AA roll to doubleheader wins over Cranbrook

Aaron Crutsinger, James Moody lead Kalispell at the plate

Columbia Falls School District discovers ballot mailing delay

Columbia Falls School District worked to rectify a situation last week when it learned there was a delay in mailing out more than a thousand ballots for its trustee election.

Jury awards $182K in wrongful discharge case against state

More than five years after a former supervisor at a Montana juvenile detention facility was fired, a jury awarded him $182,000 in damages in a wrongful termination case.

Kalispell Public Schools works to correct ballot mailing issue

With ballots due tomorrow, Kalispell Public Schools hurried last week to correct an error with mailed ballots.

Mail-in ballots are due May 3 for school elections

Voters are reminded that ballots are due Tuesday, May 3, in school districts holding mail-ballot elections.

Bigfork boys, Whitefish girls top ARM Invite

WHITEFISH — There weren’t many records that fell Saturday at the Whitefish ARM Invitational, but one of note was in the boys shot put, where Whitefish’s Talon Holmquist uncorked a monster throw of 53 feet, 6 inches – 10 inches farther than his previous best, 52-8, set last week in Columbia Falls.

Brown is the right choice for Supreme Court

During the 2021 legislative session, our Legislature passed historic legislation that all Montanans can be proud of.

The hummingbird, the opossum and the tarantula

Few would consider southern California a hotbed for wildlife — at least of the natural animal/plant kingdom variety.

Kalispell Council set to vote on senior housing complex

Kalispell City Council on Monday will consider approval of a request for a senior affordable housing complex proposal adjacent to the Gateway Community Center.

Sara Ann 'Sally' Peabody Wagner, 91

Sara Ann “Sally” Peabody Wagner, 91, died March 30, 2022, at her home in Bigfork.

Kila man uses flint knapping to bring history to life

Tom Blais has had a fascination with arrowheads since childhood. Now, he is using traditional techniques to make his own.

How a $3.4 million federal grant is helping Montana chip away at youth homelessness

For decades, Montana’s system of resources for homeless youth and young adults has been devastatingly sparse.

School levy needed to maintain standards

A strong community is often reflected in the local school system, where the foundation of a prosperous society is laid.

Food truck serves up Central Texas barbecue

Arnold and Leigha Mendez opened their food truck, Arn’s BBQ, with the goal of providing the Flathead Valley with authentic Central Texas barbecue. The couple has always loved making good food as it gathers people together.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Events, trainings and seminars for Flathead Valley businesses

Flathead Business Newsmakers

News from business professionals in the Flathead Valley

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 in Helena, her devoted daughter Barbara at her side.

Ellen Noziska, 91

Ellen Noziska, 91, passed away on Jan. 21, 2022.

Law roundup: Man threatens to carve person’s ears

A man allegedly told a business owner he was a Navy SEAL and if he caught them outside he would “carve their ears.” The man was wearing red shorts, leggings, and a baseball cap and was holding a piece of wood like a cane. The Kalispell Police Department was unable to locate the man.

Pop-up consignment event comes to mall Mother’s Day weekend

Pear Pop Up, a new consignment event, takes place on Mother’s Day weekend in the Kalispell Center Mall.

Inflation and globalization

Our current inflation began with the disruption of global supply lines due to the pandemic.

State Hospital’s funding termination could affect every community

Last month, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) sent a letter to Montana State Hospital (MSH) in Warm Springs announcing the termination of their provider agreement due to the failure of the hospital to meet health and safety standards, after four patients died in what investigators said were “preventable” deaths.

Legals for May, 1 2022

Flathead High School band marches toward new uniforms after 50 years

Flathead High School is fundraising for new marching band uniforms, which will be the first purchased in 50 years.

Letters to the editor May 1

Letters to the editor May 1