Ellington

Ian lashes South Carolina as Florida's death toll climbs

A revived Hurricane Ian threatened coastal South Carolina and the historic city of Charleston with severe flooding Friday after the deadly storm caused catastrophic damage in Florida and trapped thousands in their homes.

Abortion info fight targets university but affects far more

A box truck equipped with a bright LED billboard began circling around the University of Idaho campus Friday.

2 flu cases confirmed in Flathead

Flathead County health officials have confirmed the first cases of the seasonal flu in the state.

Zinke put on defensive over past lies in US House debate

BUTTE (AP) — Former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke faced sharp attacks for past dishonesty from his Democratic opponent in a Montana U.S. House race debate on Thursday night, as the Republican sought to downplay recent reports from federal investigators who said he lied to them in two separate cases.

Hiring: Employers get creative in pursuit of local workers

In the face of ongoing hiring challenges, local employers across all industries are taking creative measures to remove barriers in the hiring processes and appeal to qualified and capable candidates.

Hospital names award after Winslow Nichols

Beginning this school year, Logan Health will be renaming their Today’s Achievers, Tomorrow’s Leaders program after Winslow Nichols, one of the program’s first award winners.

Whitefish Community Foundation awards $20,000 for pickleball courts at Smith Fields

Project Whitefish Kids is the sponsoring nonprofit organization and donated land for the courts.

Attorney General’s Office discriminated in hiring, human rights investigation finds

The Montana Human Rights Bureau found reasonable cause to believe the Attorney General’s Office engaged in unlawful discrimination during the hiring process following an investigation into the Montana Department of Justice.

Legals for September, 30 2022

Pack boys shut out Eagles

Glacier picked up a road win as they shut out Missoula Big Sky 3-0 in Western AA soccer action Thursday.

Golan, Wildcats top Bulldogs 3-1

In case you didn’t already know, the Columbia Falls Wildcats are the real deal. The Wildcats made this clear Thursday when they beat Northern A conference rival Whitefish in a decisive 3-1 victory.

Polson, Whitefish among boys favorites at State A golf

Whitefish has grabbed headlines the last couple years after trading boys golf State A titles with always-strong Laurel.

Friday prep football: Glacier draws potent Bengals

Flathead takes off to play Sentinel; big Western A showdown in C-Falls

The Glacier Wolfpack knew this part of its football schedule was going to be tough, but this is getting ridiculous.

State AA golf: Behind McGreevey’s 65, Capital boys take lead

The Glacier boys golf team forged a one-stroke lead over Butte Thursday at the State AA golf tournament. The rub is Helena Capital went way low.

Flathead spikers sweep Wolfpack in crosstown

The Flathead Bravettes were more than ready for Crosstown, Act 1. With Sienna Sterck knocking down 10 kills and playing excellent all-around, the Bravettes swept the first intracity volleyball match of the year from Glacier Thursday at the Flathead gym.

Glacier, Flathead off to Wa-Griz for first flag football finale

Year one of high school flag football is wrapping up Saturday with teams from Flathead and Glacier joining Butte for the inaugural state championship at University of Montana’s Washington-Grizzly Stadium.

Bulldogs snuff Kats late rally, win 2-1

Two first-half goals held up for the Whitefish Bulldogs Thursday in a 2-1 win over Northern A conference rival Columbia Falls at Flip Darling Memorial Field.

Flathead Hotshots make way to Florida to assist following hurricane

The Hotshots are better known as elite crews that fight wildfires, but are also well-equipped for natural disaster assistance.

Floods trap many in Florida as Ian heads to South Carolina

Rescue crews piloted boats and waded through flooded streets Thursday to save thousands of Floridians trapped after Hurricane Ian destroyed homes and businesses and left millions in the dark.

Montana health officials call for more oversight of nonprofit hospitals

Montana health officials are proposing to oversee and set standards for the charitable contributions that nonprofit hospitals make in their communities each year to justify their access to millions of dollars in tax exemptions.

Children’s Playhouse musical ‘Annie Jr.’ returns this weekend

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre production “Annie Jr.,” continues with shows Sept. 30, and Oct. 1 at 7:30 p.m., and a Sunday matinee on Oct. 2 at 2 p.m.

Legals for September, 29 2022

Law roundup: Roofers hit the nail on the wrong house

Roofers reportedly went to the wrong house and began removing shingles, which the resident discovered while at work thanks to her home security system.

A pledge to be a good steward of Holland Lake Lodge

Holland Lake is a special place; to its current owner, to its neighbors and guests, and to me and the business I represent.

15th Annual Plein Air Glacier 2022

All new works created during the Hockaday Museum of Art’s Plein Air Glacier Paint Out, which took place Sept. 6 to 13, are now available to view and purchase through Oct. 15

Regional author publishes children’s Halloween book

Missoula author Kristen Berube’s has recently published her book, “If I Were A Witch For A Day …” the first in her “If I Were ...” book series.

Whitefish Oktoberfest nears grand finale weekend

Whitefish Oktoberfest is fast approaching its final weekend, featuring authentic German beer, food, music and dancing with the authentic Oktoberfest band Europa, along with Pech und Schwefel from the Austrian Alps.

An evening of eclectic jazz/world music

The Glacier Symphony presents another concert in its Jazz Night with the Maestro series Friday, Sept. 30, with Earth Anthem (Explorations), featuring Grammy-nominated Native American flute virtuoso R. Carlos Nakai.

Out-of-state repair companies fined for alleged insurance scams following July hailstorm

Montana’s insurance commissioner has fined four out-of-state vehicle repair companies for allegedly illegal activity after they attempted to service cars in the Bigfork area following July’s massive hailstorm.

Loren Ellis Drewry, 78

Loren Ellis Drewry passed away on Sept. 13, 2022, in North Charleston, South Carolina.

Glacier proposes to remove non-native fish from Gunsight Lake

Glacier National Park is looking for public comment on a proposed plan to use fish poison to remove non-native rainbow trout from Gunsight Lake.

Eric Alan explores new sounds in upcoming album

Flathead Valley musician Eric Alan is preparing to release his third album “Late Last Night,” which delves into some new sounds.

Concert raises funds to feed those in need

Feed the Need, a benefit concert for the Flathead Food Bank and Samaritan House, will take place at 7 p.m. Oct. 13 at the Jewel Basin Center. Cocktails and food will be available

Prisoner charged with 2020 crime given five year sentence

Domingo Jose Palafox, 32, pleaded guilty to a single felony count of assault with a weapon in late August, shortly before his expected jury trial in Flathead County District Court.

New charge filed against man linked to Whitefish shooting

Wilson Dane Huyser, 33, initially was brought up on a felony criminal endangerment charge following the May 14 shooting outside the parking garage attached to Whitefish City Hall that left a bystander injured.

Letters to the editor Sept. 29

Letters to the editor Sept. 29

Tyler Avery out to prove he’s the best golfer in the state

If someone’s going to beat Tyler Avery on the golf course, who better than a close friend. That was the case last week at the Western AA Divisional in Kalispell, where Avery ended up second to Butte’s Jack Prigge, who happens to be one of his best friends.

Linton leads Whitefish boys to win; Rumsey Eash, Wildkats also victorious

Deneb Linton won the individual crown and led the Whitefish Bulldogs to the team title Tuesday, at the Whitefish Invitational cross country meet.

Crosstown volleyball at Flathead

The first Crosstown volleyball match of the season is set for tonight at Flathead High School, at 7 p.m.

Ian makes landfall in southwest Florida as Category 4 storm

Hurricane Ian made landfall Wednesday in southwest Florida as one of the most powerful storms ever recorded in the U.S., swamping city streets with water and smashing trees along the coast.

Man facing drug charge busted for alleged attempted burglary

A Kalispell man facing a drug possession charge is back in the Flathead County Detention Center after allegedly getting caught in the act of burglarizing a fast food establishment over the weekend.

Kalispell Council weighs parking garage plan ahead of votes

The project originated from a city request for proposals to redevelop the parking lot, and another city-owned lot on Main Street now planned for The Charles Hotel to be constructed by the same developer.

Polson company brings indy film to Montana

Starring a rescue dog and the writer himself, Montana man Rob Grabow's debut film will be shown locally by the end of the month.

Kalispell Elks hold U.S. flag folding demonstration

Members of the United Veterans of the Flathead Valley presented a U.S. flag folding demonstration to Elks members at a recent meeting.

Roundup for Safety awards community grants

Those grants included a $7,500 grant requested jointly by the Kootenai Cross Country Running Team and the Kootenai Cross Country Ski Club.

Hazel Hope Burnside Stefanatz, 78

Hazel Hope Burnside Stefanatz, 78, passed from our arms to the arms of her beloved son and the rest of her receiving heavenly family members, on Sept. 22, 2022.

Court docs shed new light on Olney shooting

Kay Lynn Johnson, 64, faces a single felony count of assault with a weapon after deputies with the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office arrested her during an investigation of the Sept. 23 shooting.

Jack Edward Horstman, 65

Jack Edward Horstman, 65, passed peacefully Aug. 25, 2022.

Health Department requests Supreme Court stay Judge’s order on birth certificate gender markers

The state health department is requesting the Montana Supreme Court suspend a district court judge’s order that required the department return to allowing Montanans to update gender markers on birth certificates that was issued earlier this month.

Groups to speak about state library funding

The session is intended to share details of critical library funding legislation that the groups have drafted ahead of the 2023 Montana Legislative Session.

Ryan Wayne Loveless, 65

Ryan Wayne Loveless, 65, passed away unexpectedly Sept. 16, 2022, at Logan Health Medical Center from complications of diabetes.

Law roundup: Woman finds riffraff while taking out the trash

A woman was taking out the trash at a trailer park when she allegedly heard crying and screaming coming from a camper and went over to see a man hitting a woman.

Legals for September, 28 2022

Whitefish golfer Billy Smith wants a high finish for himself, Bulldogs

Second-year Whitefish golf coach Tait Rocksund looks at Billy Smith and sees a rock solid shot-maker, with a mental makeup beyond his 18 years.

Big Sky notes: Mismatched series has odd history

The Idaho State Bengals are 0-4 under first-year coach Charlie Rangle, who made a name for himself mainly at Chapparal High School in Phoenix before taking over.

Eagles shut out Bravettes, 3-0

Missoula Big Sky used a trio of first-half goals to top the Flathead Bravettes 3-0 in Western AA soccer on Tuesday.

Jan. 6 sedition trial underway for Oath Keepers leader

Jury selection began Tuesday in the trial of the founder of the Oath Keepers extremist group and four associates charged with seditious conspiracy, one of the most serious cases to emerge from the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Beer lift — Whitefish man excels at Bavarian feat of strength

After nearly three years of hard work and dedicated practice, David Sturzen walked away with the impressive championship belt and men’s national title at this year’s Hofbräu USA Lenny Coyne Memorial Masskrugstemmen Championship in New York’s Central Park.

Hunter who mistook dog for a wolf is under investigation

KALISPELL (AP) — Montana authorities said Tuesday they were investigating the shooting of a 6-month-old dog by a woman who skinned the animal and posted pictures of herself with the pelt, believing she had killed a young wolf.

Hurricane Ian strikes Cuba, Florida braces for winds, floods

Hurricane Ian tore into western Cuba as a major hurricane Tuesday and left 1 million people without electricity, then churned on a collision course with Florida over warm Gulf waters expected to strengthen it into a catastrophic Category 4 storm.

UM freshman enrollment increases for second year

The University of Montana welcomed more than 1,351 first-year students to campus this fall, marking the largest incoming class at the state’s flagship university in six years.

Law roundup: Dog sizes up mini horse on the trail

A dog was surprised on the trail by a mini horse on the loose and barked at it.

Legals for September, 27 2022

Driver who allegedly pulled shotgun after road rage incident pleads not guilty

Robert Allen Ellis made his initial appearance in Flathead County District Court before Judge Amy Eddy on Sept. 20.

A hunger for wild country

There is a strong and growing hunger in Montana for protecting more of our wild places for future generations. A variety of polls show large majorities of Montanans value our wild public lands and want more of them permanently protected.

Letters to the editor Sept. 27

Letters to the editor Sept. 27

Would-be burglar gets five years with Department of Corrections

Flathead County District Court Judge Robert Allison handed down the five year sentence in the state Department of Corrections to Brandon Lee Alden Billings, 20, despite the latter’s open court apology.

Whitefish man accused of raping teenager

Shane Wilson, 35, is being held in the Flathead County Detention Center with bail set at $75,000.

Justice Department funds to aid tribal law enforcement and help Indigenous victims of crime

The U.S. Department of Justice announced it will provide more than $246 million in grants to Native American and Alaska Native communities for improvements in law enforcement and justice.

More than 11 abandoned dogs found up Hungry Horse Reservoir

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office is looking for leads on the individuals who left more than 11 dogs in the Doris Creek area of the Hungry Horse Reservoir on Friday.

Legals for September, 26 2022

Letters to the editor Sept. 26

Letters to the editor Sept. 26

Black sheep — and proud of it

Breeding season is over and rams waiting just beyond the fence line pleat plaintively — some a little more than plaintively — as the gate swings shut behind them.

Letters to the editor Sept. 26

Letters to the editor Sept. 26

Law roundup: Woman wants her taco sauce back

A woman asked the Kalispell Police Department to assist with a civil standby so she could get her taco sauce, a step stool, clothing and some other belongings after deciding she didn’t want to live in a man’s apartment. She claimed he wouldn’t answer the phone because he was “kind of hiding.”

Council looks at agreements for parking garage plan

The meeting starts at 7 p.m. in the City Hall, 201 First Avenue East.

Meetings prompted over potential feral pig carcass

Officials remind the public to report sightings of feral swine following preliminary investigation into pig carcass.

After rocky start, hopes up in Oregon drug decriminalization

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Two years after Oregon residents voted to decriminalize hard drugs and dedicate hundreds of millions of dollars to treatment, few people have requested the services and the state has been slow to channel the funds.

Little evidence of political argument before teen's death in North Dakota

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — There is little indication that an 18-year-old who died after being struck by an SUV in North Dakota was a political extremist like the driver claimed.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead businesses

Chambers gives Montana State 38-35 win over E Washington

Sean Chambers scored on a 13-yard run for the winning touchdown as No. 4 Montana State defeated No. 15 Eastern Washington 38-35 on Saturday in a Big Sky Conference opening game that had a wild final four minutes.

Robert 'Mark' Meek, 69

Robert “Mark” Meek, 69, of Whitefish passed away unexpectedly on the evening of Sept. 13, 2022, at his cabin in Star Meadows

Montana’s special places worth fighting for

In autumn, that mournful season that stifles the lighthearted sounds of summer, larch turn golden-yellow and, against the dark-green shade of Douglas fir and Ponderosa pine, light up the Seeley-Swan Valley like a votive-filled cathedral in Rome.

Stephanie Steck, 71

On Sept. 15, 2022, Stephanie Steck was reunited with her late husband Rob. A loving mother and grandmother, she passed away peacefully in her home.

Joanne Jeanine Stillman Hender, 60

Joanne Jeanine Stillman Hender, 60, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, reunited with her heavenly Father, parents and siblings who have gone on before, on Sept. 1, 2022, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.

Dorothy Marie Jackson, 82

Dorothy Marie Jackson was born in Kalispell on Dec. 26, 1939, and peacefully passed on Sept. 5, 2022, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Legals for September, 25 2022

New clinic offers menu of options for patients seeking care

A new clinic, On the Move Medical Clinic, in downtown Kalispell aims to take a transparent approach to health care by offering a menu of options to patients.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

First Interstate Bank raising minimum wage for its employees

The change in compensation is set to be effective Oct. 1.

Spain plans tax hike for millionaires to help those in need

Finance Minister María Jesús Montero says the measure targets only millionaires. The expected increase in tax revenue will be used to alleviate hardship brought by higher prices for energy and food, she says.

Dow sinks to 2022 low as recession fears roil world markets

Markets sold off around the world on mounting signs the global economy is weakening just as central banks raise the pressure even more with additional hikes to interest rates.

Law roundup: Man puts the brakes on stop sign runner

A driver was reportedly livid that a woman didn’t stop at a stop sign he passed her aggressively, slammed on his brakes and started yelling at her.

Glacier Guides and Montana Raft reaches 40-year milestone

The business started out with humble beginnings when David Ames, Mark O’Keefe and Randy Gayner, founded the company in May of 1983.

Kalispell’s TIF proposal should be broadened

For the last month, Kalispell City Council has been grappling with a proposal that would allow the city to financially support workforce housing projects.

Community briefs

Talk focuses on sandhill cranes; Fall bazaar Oct. 1; Free meals in October; Presenation focuses on vikings; Quilt and Craft Market; Rotary book sale

Reimagined trail cameras capture tiny creatures to boost scientific research

The company this year got a large boost in moving the trail cameras forward with three business grants totaling $344,200 from the United States Department of Agriculture, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the state of Montana.

Honoring the legacy of Holland Lake Lodge

I started working at Holland Lake Lodge in 1999 and I loved it so much that, in 2002, I purchased it from the folks I worked for.

FVCC professor honored for work in literacy education

Eliza Sorte-Thomas, an associate professor of education, was recently awarded the Lifetime Achievement in Literacy Education award by the Northwest Montana Literacy Council.

The sky is never the limit

It set the astronomy world on fire.

Brandon Wayne Hoffenbacker, 35

Brandon Wayne Hoffenbacker, 35, born April 10, 1987, passed away Sept. 10, 2022, due to complications from colon cancer.

Letters to the editor Sept. 25

Letters to the editor Sept. 25

After 90 years, German bakery to close as energy costs soar

A family-run bakery in the German city of Cologne is turning off its ovens for good after 90 years because it can no longer afford rising energy prices resulting from Russia's war in Ukraine.

Revamped Detroit auto show now also features new flying tech

The prestigious North American International Auto Show last was held in 2019. It returned last week.

UK businesses laud energy relief, but costs still a struggle

Pubs, restaurants, breweries, retailers and other businesses across the United Kingdom are being pushed to the brink by skyrocketing energy bills.

Harry Solomon, 89

Harry Solomon (Lieutenant Colonel U.S. Air Force, Retired), 89, of Lake Frederick, Virginia, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2022, at Winchester Medical Center in Winchester, Virginia.

Harry Burnell, 91

Harry A. Burnell, 91, passed away on Sept. 14, 2022, at Logan Health Medical Center Kalispell.

Griz special again in win over Vikings

The tackle that gave Robby Hauck the career record for the Montana Grizzlies was applauded loudly Saturday from 26,087 fans at Washington-Grizzly Stadium.

Braves top Capital, 3-1

Three players scored for Flathead to lift the Braves to a 3-1 victory against the visiting Helena High Bengals on Saturday in Western AA soccer.

Glacier boys tie Helena High

Liam Ells and Hans Coggins scored for Glacier in a 2-2 tie with Helena Capital Saturday in Western AA soccer.

Frontier Conference: Braves alumnus Blake Counts scores twice in Orediggers win

Montana Tech (3-1) picked up a 33-24 road victory over Montana Western (3-2). Blake Counts, who played his prep ball at Flathead High, rushed for 120 yards on 17 carries and tacked on two total touchdowns for Tech — one receiving and one on the ground. Orediggers quarterback Blake Thelen had three passing touchdowns to three different targets in the winning effort.

PHOTOS: Grizzlies run past Portland State 53-16

Photos from the Montana Grizzlies 53-16 win over Portland State in Big Sky Conference action at Washington-Grizzly Stadium in Missoula on Saturday, Sept. 24.

Kalispell Police: Idaho teen in custody following disturbance involving gun shots

A 17-year-old Idaho teen is in custody for his involvement in a domestic-related incident Saturday night where shots were fired.

Commission votes to reallocate $6 million in workforce training funds to business automation program

Liane Taylor of the Department of Commerce said that training funds had not been utilized, with nearly $1.2 million awarded to businesses but only $128,000 dispersed.

Legals for September, 24 2022

More than 100K Montanans could be eligible for student debt relief

More than 10 percent of Montanans will be eligible to receive student debt relief through President Joe Biden’s student loan forgiveness initiative, according to new data from the White House.

Air tours of Glacier National Park will cease after 2029

Those wishing to tour Glacier National Park by air have roughly seven years remaining to do so.

Flathead falls to Hellgate 29-28

The Flathead Braves engaged the Hellgate Knights in a back and forth battle Friday night at Legends Stadium, with the Knights coming out on top 29-28 on a Leo Filardi 32-yard field goal as time expired.

Wolfpack gridders fall to Capital

HELENA — Tom Carter scored two touchdowns to fuel a second-half comeback by Helena Capital Friday, and the Bruins downed Glacier 35-27 in Western AA football at Vigilante Stadium.

Prep football: Whitefish, Polson and Bigfork roll

WHITEFISH — Fynn Ridgeway threw three touchdown passes, Ty Schwaiger ran for two scores and the Whitefish Bulldogs shut out East Helena 35-0 in Western A football Friday.

Wildcats rout Loggers 10-0, remain unbeaten

Kai Golan scored three goals in three minutes to lift the Columbia Falls Wildcats to a 10-0 rout of host Libby on Friday.

Mann, McAtee help Kats beat Loggers

Sydney Mann and Hope McAtee each scored hat tricks to help the Columbia Falls Wildkats to an 8-0 Northern A soccer win over Libby Friday.

PHOTOS: Flathead falls to Hellgate, 29-28

Photos from Flathead's 29-28 loss to Missoula Hellgate in a Class AA high school football game at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Saturday, Sept. 24.

Bruins shut out Bravettes, 8-0

Helena Capital topped the Flathead Bravettes 8-0 in Western AA soccer Friday.

Sanders, Pack blank Helena, 6-0

Harrison Sanders scored a hat trick and the Glacier Wolfpack blanked Helena High 6-0 in Western AA soccer Friday.

Glacier boys, Avery second at divisional golf

Butte’s Jack Prigge edged Glacier’s Tyler Avery by one stroke to win medalist at the Western AA Divisional golf tournament Friday at Northern Pines Golf Club.

One arrested following alleged shooting in Olney

An Olney woman is behind bars for allegedly shooting a man during a disturbance in that community on Friday, authorities say.

Glacier beats Flathead in first crosstown flag football game

Gray skies and light rain set the scene for crosstown flag football Thursday with Glacier beating Flathead 18-12 while both schools celebrated Seniors Night at Legends Stadium.

Butte, Capital take team leads at Western AA golf

It was rainy and cold for the first day of the Western AA Divisional golf tournament, and the Butte boys and Helena Capital girls did not seem to mind.

Flathead hosts Hellgate in battle of 1-3 teams

Glacier on road to face 4-0 Helena Capital

The Flathead football squad returns to Legends Stadium Friday, glad to be off the road and hopeful about a game against another 1-3 team, the Missoula Hellgate Knights.

Legals for September, 23 2022

Grizzlies, Bobcats capsules for Sept. 24

Portland St. at No. 2 Montana When: Saturday, 2 p.m.; TV — KPAX; Web — ESPN+; Radio — Grizzly Radio Network. Where: Washington-Grizzly Stadium (25,217, FieldTurf)

Book challenge prompts creation of ‘parent resources’ section at ImagineIF

The decision comes after a challenge over the book “Not My Idea: A Book About Whiteness” by Anastasia Higginbotham, which discusses white privilege and racism.

Law Roundup: Faith lacking after driver violates rules of the road

There was no faith in a driver following the law from a caller who reported a car with a “Trust in God” sticker on the back reportedly running traffic lights and stop signs.

White House pushed to drop pandemic border requirements

Local leaders are pushing the White House to match Canada's withdrawal of Covid-19 vaccination requirements for people crossing the border.

Evergreen killer given 35 years for mitigated deliberate homicide

Flathead County District Court Judge Robert Allison sentenced Tanner Doyle White to 35 years in Montana State Prison on Thursday for the Jan. 17 shooting death of 42-year-old Luke Simpson in Evergreen.

PHOTOS: Glacier wins first flag football crosstown, 18-12

Photos from the first flag football crosstown game between Glacier and Flathead at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Thursday, Sept. 22. The Wolfpack won 18-12.

Montana voters to decide on 'born alive' abortion bill

A referendum on the Montana ballot in November raises the prospect of criminal charges for health care providers unless they take "all medically appropriate and reasonable actions to preserve the life" of an infant born alive, including after an attempted abortion.

Columbia Falls man charged in stabbing death

A Columbia Falls man is behind bars after allegedly stabbing another man to death on Tuesday.

Prescribed burns planned around Northwest Montana

The Flathead National Forest is planning to conduct fall prescribed fire projects when weather, fuel conditions, and air quality become favorable.

Montana law ending Election Day voter registration on hold

The Montana Supreme Court, in a split ruling on Wednesday, upheld a temporary order blocking the enforcement of two election-related laws passed by the 2021 Montana Legislature while the laws are being challenged in court.

Supreme Court: Mack truck v. motor scooter

Judicial independence is a matter of Constitutional law and American tradition.

Renowned guitarist makes appearance at WCC

Tommy Emmanuel, with special guest Gareth Pearson, will be performing at the Wachholz College Center on the Flathead Valley Community College campus Wednesday, Feb. 22.

Luis G. Daglio, 82

Luis G. Daglio, 82, beloved husband, father, grandpa, uncle and friend, passed away on Aug. 24, 2022.

C-Falls planning board approves hotel project in split vote

The Columbia Falls City-County Planning Board approved a plan Tuesday night for a new hotel at the Glacier Inn Motel site on U.S. 2 in a 4-2 vote.

Advocating for Alzheimer’s prevention and a cure

Kellie Danielson’s mother, Carol Tackett, who is now 84, was first diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2012 when she was in her mid-70s, due to metal poisoning.

Legals for September, 22 2022

Pablo woman selected for PEO scholarship

P.EO., Chapter CA, Polson, received notification of their candidate, Hydee Wilson, being selected for the 2022-2023 Jane Hammer Holmgren Scholarship (JHHS).

Violin virtuoso Wai Mizutani performs ‘Conquering the Impossibles’

Master violinist Wai Mizutani will “conquer the impossible” when he performs several of the most difficult violin pieces in history, accompanied by the piano skills of Xiao Long Chen.

State candidates offer ideas on surplus, housing and taxes

Solutions for how to handle Montana’s budget surplus and fix the state’s housing and child care challenges were among the topics local legislative candidates addressed Tuesday at a forum hosted by the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce.

Whitefish hospital begins expansion to add new observation wing

Logan Health Whitefish does not currently have a unit designated for shorter stays and therefore patients who need to be observed for a period of time, but not necessarily admitted, end up staying in the emergency room which is not ideal, according to the hospital.

Letters to the editor Sept. 22

Letters to the editor Sept. 22

Common sense

Irate Americans are arming themselves and heading to library board meetings to defend children against evil by insisting that the library remove books that offend society.

Vocal powerhouse Shayna Steele performs one night only

Just a few tickets remain for Whitefish Theatre Company’s performance by singing sensation Shayna Steele at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Let the Oktoberfest games begin!

Today, Sept 22, is “Locals Night” at the Great Northwest Oktoberfest at Depot Park in Whitefish.

Nakai and Zoltek - An evening of eclectic jazz/world music

The Glacier Symphony presents another concert in its Jazz Night with the Maestro series on Friday, Sept. 30, with Earth Anthem (Explorations) featuring Grammy-nominated Native American flute virtuoso, the legendary R. Carlos Nakai

County rural improvement districts see reduction in taxes

The two districts affected are the Monegan Road and the Bigfork Stormwater Project districts.

Law roundup: Halloween decoration or human?

Someone thought a woman with a limp was a Halloween decoration at first, but upon realizing she was human, they asked Flathead County Sheriff's Office to check on her welfare because no one wanted to interact with her owing to her strange behavior.

Children’s Playhouse opens ‘Annie Jr.’ this weekend

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre is presenting “Annie Jr.,” the first production of its 2022-2023 season, Sept 23 and 24.

Linda Kay (Campbell) Walsten, 70

Linda Kay (Campbell) Walsten, 70, passed away Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022 in Rollins with her family by her side.

Man in custody after alleged bank robbery attempt in Bigfork

A man has been taken into custody after allegedly attempting to rob Glacier Bank in Bigfork on Tuesday.

Kalispell man accused of smoking marijuana with teens

Ryan Christopher Newby of Kalispell entered the plea before Judge Amy Eddy during his Sept. 20 arraignment.

Art exhibit explores essence of ‘home’

Local artist Jessy Hanson is putting together a pop up art exhibition titled, “The Home We Carry: A Visual Anthology of the Unhoused.”

‘Quiz Show’ featured at September’s Movie Night at the Museum

The Northwest Montana History Museum hosts the next edition of its popular free movie nights Tuesday, Sept. 27.

Man who spat at police, bit store employee enters guilty plea

The man accused of biting a supermarket employee while stealing bottles of wine and spitting on Kalispell Police officers following his subsequent arrest pleaded guilty to amended charges in Flathead County District Court this week.

Triple threat: Polson’s football opponents have to deal with a dynamic passing attack led by senior Jarrett Wilson

The Polson football Pirates are 4-0 this year, have won 14 of their last 15 games and a lot of it is due to a trio that came along 18 years ago: Colter, Jarrett and Trent Wilson.

Wildkats cruise, Browning and Whitefish boys tie in Thompson Falls

THOMPSON FALLS — Siri Erickson cruised to an individual win and led the Columbia Falls’ tight group of runners Tuesday, as the Wildkats won the girls team title at the Thompson Falls Invitational cross country meet.

Pack spikers down Knights in five

Sarah Downs and Ella Farrell put in some hard work in the front row against Missoula Hellgate on Tuesday and it paid off with a five-set Western AA volleyball victory.

PHOTOS: Flathead High School's Homecoming Parade

Scenes from Flathead High School's Homecoming Parade along Main Street in Kalispell on Wednesday, Sept. 21.

Library board appointment rescheduled for Oct. 3

The Flathead County Commission rescheduled its vote to fill a vacancy on the ImagineIF Board of Trustees to Oct. 3.

Code Girls have the spirit

Spirit of Montana Award goes to Kalispell after-school tech program

Two teams from Montana Code Girls United were presented with the Spirit of Montana Award by Susan Gianforte, first lady of Montana, on Sept. 15 in Kalispell.

Law roundup: Bear with white markings entranced by garbage

A man spotted a black bear beneath his bathroom window on Bills Lane. The bear, which had white markings on its chest, had reportedly knocked down two to three garbage cans in the area and was unfazed by Columbia Falls Police Department’s attempts to scare it away with flashing lights. Instead,

Two Libby residents file write-in campaigns for county seats

The deadline for write-in candidates expired Sept. 6 and Lincoln County saw two candidates file for local races as declared write-ins for the 2022 general election on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Legals for September, 21 2022

Harriet Margaret Krall Karst, 81

Harriet Margaret Krall Karst, 81, passed on Sept. 12, 2022, at Benefis Peace Hospice House in Great Falls.ice House in Great Falls.

Local man booked after making series of threats in August and September

Anthony Howard Trebas, 46, is being held in the Flathead County Detention Center with bail set at $50,000 after allegedly sending and making a slew of ominous text messages and phone calls in late August and early September.

Conrad Mansion Museum hosts Fairy Walks in the Garden

During the Conrad Mansion Museum’s Fairy Walks, people of all ages are invited to find fairy houses nestled among the flowers and trees of the mansion’s gardens and experience the magic of the Conrad Mansion.

Housing organizations say proposed Kalispell program should provide greater assistance

A proposal being considered by City Council would make tax increment financing (TIF) funds available to projects with workforce housing for those in the 80% to 120% or area median income or AMI range.

Great Fish Community Challenge sets new fundraising record

The eighth annual Great Fish Community Challenge set a new fundraising record, with over $4.1 million in donations as of 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 16.

A Montana abortion provider surveys a landscape of political threats

On a Thursday in early August, Helen Weems and the two nursing assistants at All Families Healthcare in Whitefish had, by their standards, a typical day.

Phyllis Stevens-Manus, 79

Phyllis Stevens-Manus, 79

Linda Walsten, 70

Linda Walsten, 70

Sports briefs: Grizzlies’ Xu is Big Sky defender of week

FARMINGTON, Utah — Camellia Xu, who posted shutouts of both Boise State and North Dakota State, was named the Big Sky Conference defensive player of the week Tuesday.

Luis G. Daglio, 82

Luis G. Daglio, 82, beloved husband, father, grandpa, uncle and friend, passed away on Aug. 24, 2022.

Convicted rapist given new sentence

A convicted rapist is headed back to Montana State Prison after Flathead County District Court Judge Amy Eddy last week revoked his sentence for a second time.

Robert “Mark” Meek, 69

Robert “Mark” Meek, 69

Bravette spikers top Eagles

The Bravettes topped the visiting Big Sky Eagles in Western AA volleyball Tuesday, winning in three sets.

Wildcats blank Pirates, 4-0

Finley Sundberg scored two goals for the Columbia Falls Wildcats in a 4-0 win in Northern A soccer on Tuesday.

Queen Elizabeth II mourned by Britain and world at funeral

LONDON (AP) — The United Kingdom and the world bade farewell to Queen Elizabeth II on Monday with a state funeral that drew presidents and kings, princes and prime ministers — and crowds in the streets of London and at Windsor Castle — to honor a monarch whose 70-year reign defined an age.

Birth announcements

Birth announcements

Law roundup: Couple harassed with welfare checks

A woman was very upset because family members were harassing her by calling in welfare checks. It took collaboration between the Kalispell Police Department and Flathead County Sheriff's Office to sort it out.

Legals for September, 20 2022

Fair day’s work for fair day’s pay

The only reason you’re not rich is you’re lazy. My mother told me that. She didn’t buy my moaning about low pay in the state bureaucracy.

Suit claims commissioners applied spot zoning in West Glacier

Citizens for a Better Flathead and West Glacier resident Sharon DeMeester have filed suit in Flathead County District Court against the Flathead County Commission over what they claim is spot zoning in West Glacier.

Deloris Elaine (Hayden) Matson, 84

Deloris gained her angel wings on Sept. 16, 2022.

Letters to the editor Sept. 20

Letters to the editor Sept. 20

Kalispell schools nearing capacity — District to start long-range facility planning

Kalispell Public Schools will begin extensive long-range facility planning as more schools near capacity levels.

Montana to allow transgender people to change birth record

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — After months of defiance, Montana's health department says it will follow a judge's ruling and temporarily allow transgender people to change the gender on their birth certificates.

Carolyn Edith Pearson, 89

Carolyn Edith Pearson, 89, passed away peacefully at Doctors Hospital in Sarasota, Florida, on Aug. 1, 2022.

Couple says serving customers center of dry cleaning business

When the couple purchased the Kalispell business 22 years ago, neither had any idea how to run it.

Transportation plan heads before Whitefish Council

Whitefish City Council meets at 7:10 p.m. at City Hall, 418 E Second St.

Legals for September, 19 2022

Letters to the editor Sept. 19

Letters to the editor Sept. 19

Kalispell Council to take input on workforce housing funding proposal

The meeting starts at 7 p.m. in the City Hall, 201 First Avenue East.

Sheriff’s Office facing challenging times

Over the past several years we have seen a dramatic increase in population in our area.

Parker Vaughn Hill

Parker Vaughn Hill, of Olney, passed away Sept 15 in the early morning, coming home from work, in a car accident.

Let’s take a holistic approach to helping addicts

Gov. Greg Gianforte got a candid assessment of the public safety situation, particularly as it relates to drug use, in the valley from a selection of Flathead County’s elected leaders and law enforcement officials last week, and the prognosis is worrying.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead businesses

Bitterroot Valley farm plans winter delivery program for Kalispell

Three young farmers from the Bitterroot Valley are looking to bring fresh, organic produce to communities all over Northwest Montana including Kalispell.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Community stars showcase dance skills at Soles of the Flathead fundraiser for warming shelter

Local law enforcement and legal professionals will be kept on their toes at the inaugural “Soles of the Flathead” gala on Sept. 23, a “Dancing with the Stars” style competition to benefit the Flathead Warming Center.

Community briefs

Out of the Darkness Walk; Walk to End Alzheimer’s; Indroduction to meditation; Dementia seminar

Heather Marie Fritz, 35

Our beautiful Heather Marie Fritz passed away on Aug. 14, 2022, in Great Falls.

Montana’s first territory capital celebrates its past

Nestled along Grasshopper Creek, among the foothills of the Pioneer Mountains west of Dillon, lies what is now know as Bannack State Park.

Ukraine’s fight for its life and why it matters to Montana

Since Russia renewed its siege on Ukraine in February, thousands of Ukrainians have died and millions have fled their homes. Why should we Montanans care?

Great Northern Wilderness Guides aims to make backcountry attainable

The idea for the company came to Browning in the summer of 2020 during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Legals for September, 18 2022

Montana part of coalition to receive $45M in Indigenous economic development grants

Mountain | Plains Regional Native CDFI Coalition was one of 21 groups to receive a portion of the $1 billion Build Back Better Regional Challenge — an initiative that is part of the American Rescue Plan aiming to boost economic recovery from the pandemic, including communities that have experienced decades of disinvestment.

Law roundup: Fearless dachshund chases off bear

A small bear was reportedly chased off by a small, but fearless, dachshund.

Janice Maddux, 83

Janice Maddux passed quietly away on Sept. 2, 2022, at the age of 83.

Douglas K. Morton, 78

Douglas K. Morton died peacefully Sept. 4, 2022, with his family nearby.

Letters to the editor Sept. 18

Letters to the editor Sept. 18

Flathead County budget looks at the ‘long game’

In effort to add clarity and transparency to the Flathead County FY23 Budget, we offer the following account of our stewardship decisions:

Scientists track how huckleberries fare in changing climate

LEWISTON, Idaho (AP) — Huckleberries are highly sought after, but the coveted mountain fruit was difficult to find

‘Those summer days’

These summer days have been abundant with the places, smells and tastes that come to mind whenever I think of summer.

Joanne Jeanine Stillman Hender, 60

Joanne Jeanine Stillman Hender, 60, of Idaho Falls, Idaho, reunited with her heavenly Father, parents and siblings who have gone on before, on Sept. 1, 2022, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center.

Darrell Joseph Christofferson, 75

Darrell Joseph Christofferson went to be with the Lord at home in Kalispell on Aug. 8, 2022.

Hardin shines, Rumsey Eash top Montana finisher at Mountain West

The Mountain West Invitational as usual brought the best cross country talent from inside Montana and out to the University of Montana Golf Course.

Helena spikers sweep Glacier

The Helena High Bengals swept Glacier in three sets Saturday, 25-20, 25-17, 25-22.

Nolan, Beavers too much for Bobcats in 68-28 win

Oregon State quarterback Chance Nolan threw for 276 yards and four touchdowns, and the Beavers pulled away from a 21-14 advantage to wallop Montana State 68-28 Saturday at Providence Park.

Griz pull away from Sycamores, 49-14

Lucas Johnson threw for 232 yards and three touchdowns, ran for another score and the No. 2 Montana Grizzlies shook off a slow start to rout Indiana State 49-14 Saturday.

PHOTOS: GoldenStock comes to Whitefish

Scenes from GoldenStock Montana at Haymoon Resort in Whitefish on Saturday, Sept. 17. GoldenStock Montana is a gathering of golden retrievers and their owners to support Montana Precious Gold Golden Retriever Rescue.

Judge chides Montana for refusing order on transgender law

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A Montana judge on Monday said state health officials made "calculated violations" of his order to temporarily stop enforcing a law that would prevent transgender people from changing the gender on their birth certificate unless they had undergone surgery.

Speed limit reduced on Montana 82

Starting Monday, commuters driving Montana 82 between Bigfork and Somers will see a lower speed limit.

Prep FB: C-Falls' Schweikert throws 6 TDs; Polson, Whitefish, Bigfork also win

LIBBY — Cody Schweikert threw for 311 yards and six touchdowns, and Columbia Falls downed Libby 49-7 in a Western A football game Friday.

State health department seeks to ax board that hears public assistance appeals

Montana health officials are asking state lawmakers to eliminate a board that hears appeals from people who believe they were wrongly denied public assistance benefits.

Bigfork School Board votes to partially fund the district's unfunded sports programs

After a large showing of support from parents, students and coaches, the Bigfork School Board voted Sept. 14 to partially finance the district’s previously unfunded sports programs.

Education regs revised per public comment

Over the past few months, the Montana Board of Public Education has busied itself with a seemingly endless stream of regulatory rewrites touching nearly every corner of the state’s K-12 public education system. The latest action on that front came Thursday as board members advanced a revised set of standards for educator preparation programs proposed by Superintendent Elsie Arntzen.

Legals for September, 17 2022

Fallon files as write-in for commission seat

Defeated Flathead County commissioner candidate Jack Fallon has registered as a write-in candidate for the upcoming November general election.

Bravettes hold off the Pack late

Sophomore midfielder Kyrie Gislason had two goals for the Flathead Bravettes as they defeated the Glacier Wolfpack 3-2 at Legends Field on Thursday in Western AA soccer.

Butte rides 4 Hansen TDs to 40-0 win over Flathead

BUTTE — Butte’s Trey Hansen scored four touchdowns, and the Bulldog defense held Flathead to 168 yards in a 40-0 Western AA football win over the Braves Friday.

AA football: Sentinel survives Wolfpack charge

There’s a little pressure that goes with winning streaks and Missoula Sentinel’s football team has a long one — 25 games and counting, after a 38-31 victory Friday night. Glacier High added some pressure of its own.

PHOTOS: Sentinel outlasts Glacier, 38-31

Photos from Glacier's 38-31 loss to Missoula Sentinel in Class AA high school football at Legends Stadium on Friday, Sept. 16.

Montana judge rules transgender sports rule unconstitutional

A Montana state judge has determined three laws passed by Montana's Republican-controlled legislature to regulate activities on university campuses are unconstitutional, including one that sought to ban transgender women from participating on female collegiate sports teams.

Local leaders pitch Gianforte on ways to combat drugs in the valley

Local elected leaders, law enforcement officials and addiction specialists presented Gov. Greg Gianforte with a portrait of a rapidly growing community struggling with worsening drug and mental health issues during a roundtable discussion on Thursday.

Call fails for Montana special session on budget surplus

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — An effort by some Republicans to call a special session of the Montana Legislature to discuss returning excess tax revenue to residents failed, the Secretary of State's Office said Thursday.

Friday is final day to donate to Great Fish Challenge

Today at 5 p.m. is the deadline to support 70 Flathead Valley nonprofit organizations raising funds in the 8th annual Great Fish Community Challenge. The fundraising goal for this year’s Challenge is $4 million. Nonprofits receive 100 percent of the gifts designated to them, and donors who give online can choose to cover the credit card transaction fee.

Legals for September, 16 2022

Mussel tainted boat snagged in Whitefish

On Aug. 31, a mussel-infested boat attempting to launch in Whitefish Lake was stopped by the Whitefish Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Inspection Program.

Kalen Young tapped as director of Whitefish hospital foundation

Flathead Valley native Kalen Young was recently named as the new executive director of the Logan Health Whitefish Foundation.

Community briefs: Golden retriever gathering; chili competition

Golden retriever gathering Saturday in Whitefish; Chili competition and wiener dog races Saturday in Lakeside

Man allegedly pulls out shotgun in road rage incident

A 65-year-old man remains behind bars after allegedly pulling a shotgun on a man following a bout of road rage on Sept. 5.

National Merit semifinalists named for 2023 competition

Three local students were recently named National Merit semifinalists.

Law roundup: Pair of friends make bone-rattling discovery

Halloween came early for a pair of friends taking in a sunset from a gravel pit near Kalispell.

Flathead High wins exclusive rights to produce ‘Frozen’ musical

Flathead High School will be the first school in Montana to produce Disney’s “Frozen: The Broadway Musical,” after winning a nationwide competition.

DAR completes highway clean-up

Members clean a two-mile section of U.S. 2 East, just west of the Glacier Park west entrance.

Ryan Anthony Cislo, 43

Ryan Anthony Cislo, 43

Cats stop Dawgs' streak

Coach O’Brien Byrd is glad the Whitefish Bulldogs were undefeated for such a long time, but only because he wanted his Columbia Falls Wildcats to be the ones who ended the run.

Pack, Spartans get early marquee matchup

Things have quickly gotten serious for the Glacier Wolfpack football team, which battles fellow unbeaten Missoula Sentinel tonight at 7, inside Legends Stadium.

Glacier tops Flathead 5-1 in crosstown

Glacier sophomore Liam Ells scored two goals to lead the Wolfpack to a 5-1 win over the Flathead Braves as Legends Stadium was transformed into the Wolf Den Thursday night for a boys soccer crosstown rivalry game.

Whitefish’s Nix surges to win Kalispell Invite

Whitefish’s Billy Smith and Glacier’s Tyler Avery were set to duel for medalist honors Thursday, at the Kalispell Invitational golf tournament at Buffalo Hill Golf Club.

Week 3 Grizzlies, Bobcats Capsules

When the Grizzlies have the ball: Lucas Johnson had a blazing start in last week’s 24-7 win over South Dakota, including an arm-fake, 24-yard, twisting, physical touchdown run.

Empire Builder back on track following union deal

Freight rail companies and unions representing tens of thousands of workers reached a tentative agreement to avoid what would have been an economically damaging strike, after all-night talks brokered by Labor Secretary Martin J. Walsh, President Biden said early Thursday morning.

Money approved for states to build car-charging network

The Biden administration said Wednesday it has approved ambitious plans by 34 states and Puerto Rico to create a national electric vehicle charging network as the U.S. begins in earnest its transition away from gas-powered transportation.

Montana defies order on transgender birth certificates

Just hours after a Montana judge blocked health officials from enforcing a state rule that would prevent transgender people from changing the gender on their birth certificate, the state on Thursday said it would defy the order.

Tentative labor deal averts threat of nationwide rail strike

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden said Thursday that a tentative railway labor agreement has been reached, averting a strike that could have been devastating to the economy before the pivotal midterm elections.

Thelma Jane Bjorklund, 87

Thelma Jane Bjorklund, 87, of Glasgow, Montana, passed away at Valley View Home on Sept. 9, 2022.

A community call to support a faithful friend

A community call to support a faithful friend

Events

Fundraiser planned for Whitefish artist/musician Jeff Arcel

Great music talent takes the stage at McClaren Hall in 2023

A bevy of musical talent is being lined up at the Wachholz College Center on the Flathead Valley Community College campus in early 2023.

Law roundup: Man takes back stolen pickup and keeps on truckin’

A man allegedly found his stolen truck at a location, yanked out the people inside and called the Kalispell Police Department as he drove away. An angry woman allegedly rammed

Wolfpack Theatre put hilarious spin on Greek mythology

The Greek myths are expansive, epic and legendary tales … and will be covered in their entirety by two narrators in less than two hours. Well, sort of …

Fixing the department of ‘miseducation’

Like my mother and father before me, I am a proud graduate from Whitefish High School and was equally proud that after a 23-year career in the military with multiple overseas tours, two of my three children were also able to graduate from Whitefish.

Admitted thief receives suspended sentence

Nathaniel Ray Warner, 25, pleaded guilty to a single felony count of theft in Flathead County District Court in late June.

Accused burglar back behind bars after missing arraignment

Krystal Dawn Shears, 28, was released on her own recognizance Aug. 29, but missed her Aug. 31 arraignment in Flathead County District Court. Judge Heidi Ulbricht issued a bench warrant following the no-show and Shears was booked back into county jail on Sept. 12.

Don your dirndls and lederhosen and head to Oktoberfest

The Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish is back for 2022, bigger and better than ever.

Legals for September, 15 2022

Fossil fuel’s negative impacts far greater than solar, wind

In the Aug. 27 Daily Inter Lake, Scotia Brosnan wrote a letter to the editor supporting Dr. Annie Bukacek for the District 5 seat on the Montana Public Service Commission, citing a presentation by Dr. Bukacek to the Flathead Pachyderm (Republican) Club entitled “We are not told the negative impacts of solar and wind.”

Whitefish Trail opens new loops at Holbrook

The Whitefish Trail recently added almost 4 miles of looped trails with tremendous vistas accessible from Big Mountain Road while also making progress on another large project north of Whitefish Lake.

WTC presents NYC vocal powerhouse Shayna Steele

The Whitefish Theatre Company is bringing singing sensation Shayna Steele from New York City, known for her extraordinary vocal artistry, to the stage.

Legendary MT author Doug Peacock gives Whitefish Review presentation

Whitefish Review will present a reading and discussion with author Doug Peacock on Friday, Sept. 23, at Casey's, 101 Central Ave., in downtown Whitefish.

Letters to the editor Sept. 15

Letters to the editor Sept. 15

MHSA votes to move 2023 AA-B state track to Butte

The Montana High School Association Executive Board on Wednesday approved relocating the 2023 AA-B State Track and Field meet from Gallatin High School in Bozeman to Bulldog Memorial Stadium in Butte.

Pre-hyphen, he was the speedy tackle

Before he was Jim Smithwick-Hann, he was just Jim Hann, a quick tight end who in 1971 caught two passes for 10 yards for the Montana Football Grizzlies. In 1972, he was an even quicker right tackle.

Rivalry matches on tap for area soccer squads

Soccer season is already well underway for area teams, several of whom surely have today’s date circled in the calendar. Flathead, Glacier, Columbia Falls and Whitefish certainly do.

Smith, Whitefish take slim leads over Avery, Glacier

Billy Smith shot a 68 and Whitefish took a narrow lead in the team race after the first day of the Kalispell Invitational golf tournament, held at Northern Pines Wednesday.

Empire Builder mothballed as strike looms

Rail riders will face difficulty making their way west from Montana for the time being after Amtrak announced Monday it shut down the Empire Builder route as a possible labor strike threatens to derail the nation’s freight train lines.

Oregon confirms new wolves in northern Cascade Mountains

Oregon wildlife officials said Tuesday they have identified a new family of wolves in the northern Cascade Mountains, bringing the total number of known wolf groups in the region to three.

One union rejects deal days ahead of rail strike deadline

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Members of one union rejected a tentative deal with the largest U.S. freight railroads Wednesday while three other unions remained at the bargaining table just days ahead of a strike deadline, threatening to intensify snarls in the nation's supply chain that have contributed to rising prices.

Columbia Falls passes emergency bear law

The Columbia Falls City Council passed an emergency ordinance Sept. 6 that requires residents to secure garbage and other attractants, like fruit from trees, from bears and other wildlife.

Registration opens for homebuyer education classes

Community Action Partnership of Northwest Montana (CAPNM) is once again presenting in-person HUD approved Homebuyer Education Classes at its Kalispell location on Main Street.

Browning man accused of assault changes plea in federal court

Dale Ray Racine, 30, entered a guilty plea to assault resulting in serious bodily injury before U.S. District Judge Brian Morris in Great Falls on Sept. 12.

Retired forester turns in hard hat for a long arm

The featured quilter at this year’s Flathead Quilters' Guild Quilt Show Friday and Saturday, Cathy Calloway says she quickly began honing her new quilting craft once she became a member of the Flathead Quilt Guild.

Richard 'Ric' Richter, 77

Richard “Ric” Richter left this world April 21, 2022, at his home in Oro Valley, Arizona, where he lived with his loving wife, Jane, of 40 years.

Legals for September, 14 2022

Cheryl Goodwin, 74

Cheryl Goodwin, 74, of Bigfork, passed away Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022.

Law roundup: Burly group crashes child’s birthday party

A woman hosting a 5-year-old’s birthday party at a public park pavilion called the Kalispell Police Department complaining about transients circling the area who looked like they could “snap

Wayne Moothart, 96

On Sunday, the 4th of September 2022, Wayne Moothart, 96, passed away.

Jason Lee Catron, 47

Jason Lee Catron, 47, of Bigfork, left us to pursue other adventures on Sept. 2, 2022, as the result of a tragic accident.

Writing coaches find fulfillment in helping students, supporting teachers

Volunteers needed

Writing Coaches of Montana is seeking more volunteers to help students express their ideas on paper and improve their writing skills as the program grows in Flathead County schools.

Anthony N. 'Tony' Giardina, 54

Anthony N. “Tony” Giardina, 54, of Kalispell, passed away at home on Aug. 29, 2022, surrounded by his loving family.

Briefs: Libby's Stevenson commits to Griz

Cy Stevenson, a senior running back and defensive end at Libby High School, announced via Twitter Wednesday that he’s committed to the University of Montana to play football.

County planning board looks at Columbia Falls RV park expansion

The planning board meets at 6 p.m. on the second floor conference room of the South Campus Building at 40 11th St. W. in Kalispell.

Holland Lake Lodge expansion plans raise community concerns

The proposed expansion of Holland Lake Lodge by an out-of-state company is being met with opposition from locals concerned about the size of the project and what it could mean for the community.

Convicted rapist faces sentence revocation

James Pallone Heitman, 59, pleaded guilty to a single count of sexual intercourse without consent before then Judge Ted Lympus in 2006 after striking a deal with prosecutors.

Presentation looks at history of smokejumping

The program will continue with the first six years (1940-1946) of smokejumper operations in the U.S. Forest Service and how 1940 and 1941 were still considered experimental, impacts of World War II.

Prosecutors: Man in skeleton costume wielded gun

Prosecutors filed a single count of assault with a weapon against Romano Corbitt, 31, following his arrest at his Sixth Avenue West home on Sept. 10. He remains held in the county jail with bail set at $50,000.

Alan W. Young, 74

With memories in his backpack and miles on his shoes, Alan W. Young passed away at home on the evening of Sept. 7, 2022.

Lloyd Samson Hanson

Lloyd Samson Hanson, a proud veteran of the Air Force, passed away on Sept. 4, 2022, of natural causes.

Milton Ugene Littlefield, 50

Milton Ugene Littlefield, 50, passed away on Sept. 7, 2022, in Kalispell.

Alleged drunk driver pleads not guilty to negligent vehicular assault

Kenneth Malcolm Stevenson, 34, pleaded not guilty to a single felony count of negligent vehicular assault before Judge Dan Wilson on Sept. 8.

Volunteers needed for North Valley Food Bank’s fall fruit harvest

The project is a partnership between the NVFB and the City of Whitefish, which manages more than 20 fruit trees.

Arntzen forecasts 2023 legislative priorities

The Montana Office of Public Instruction offered a preview Monday of several policy priorities for the 2023 Legislature, including an effort to secure ongoing maintenance funding for the agency’s new online educator licensing system.

US inflation still stubbornly high despite August slowdown

WASHINGTON (AP) — Lower gas costs slowed U.S. inflation for a second straight month in August, but most other prices across the economy kept rising — evidence that inflation remains a heavy burden for American households.

Legals for September, 13 2022

Man accused of assaulting children takes plea deal

Authorities issued a warrant for his arrest after he allegedly kicked and punched his two sons for skipping school in May of that year, according to court documents.

Kalispell planning board looks at parking garage proposal

The planning board meets at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 201 First Avenue East.

Commissioners set to take up ImagineIF board vacancy

Flathead County Commissioners are set to fill a vacancy on the ImagineIF Library Board during their meeting scheduled for September 20.

Law roundup: Man shoplifts shades and air rifle

Security cameras allegedly recorded a male walking into a store, stuffing sunglasses in his shorts and then walking out a side door with an air rifle in his hand.

Erratic driver arrested on Going-to-the-Sun Road

Traffic on the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park was held up for nearly an hour Friday evening after a man drove a car into the Weeping Wall and refused to heed police commands, leading to a short standoff.

Wall Street rallies ahead of high-stakes inflation report

Stocks rose again on Wall Street ahead of a high-stakes report that will hopefully show inflation hammered the economy less hard last month. The S&P 500 climbed 1.1% Monday, while gains for tech companies pushed the Nasdaq up a bit more.

Law roundup: Bottle of whiskey appears in driveway

Someone’s neighbor allegedly noticed garage doors open on a house that was supposed to be vacant. They also saw a bottle of whiskey in the driveway and a missing window screen.

Long-term mortgage rates now at highest point since 2008

Average long-term U.S. mortgage rates jumped again this week to their highest level in almost 14 years, certain to keep even more potential buyers out of a housing market that's cooled considerably since the Federal Reserve began jacking up its benchmark borrowing rate.

As small businesses raise prices, some customers push back

Inflation isn't only costing small businesses money. It's costing them customers as well. For much of the pandemic, small business customers were largely tolerant of price increases and kept on spending. Now, owners are seeing some pushback.

Instructor shares practice of outdoor mindfulness with forest bathing

Striking a balance between mindful meditation and jubilant observation, forest bathing invites the participant to look closer at the nature around them and feel the positive effects of simply being outside.

Biden to announce new support for US biotech production

President Joe Biden is announcing a new initiative to encourage biotech production and research in the U.S. It's the latest move by the White House to boost domestic industry.

Legals for September, 12 2022

Unions blast rail move to delay shipments before deadline

The heads of the nation's two largest rail unions said Sunday that the freight railroads' move to begin delaying some shipments ahead of this week's looming strike deadline is only an attempt to get shippers to increase the pressure on Congress to intervene and block a work stoppage by imposing a contract on workers.

Riders win PL finale with wild final play

GREAT FALLS — Eddie McCabe drove in three runs, Austin Bates made a tag of a lifetime and the Glacier Range Riders beat Great Falls 4-3 in their Pioneer League season finale Saturday.

'Very much worth remembering:' Foundation marks anniversary of 9/11 and Benghazi attack

The 9/11 Honor and Serve Foundation is once again hosting its annual Patriot Day 9/11 remembrance ceremony on Quarter Circle Road today, remembering the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 and Sept. 11, 2012.

Judicial activism and tomorrow’s courts

Judicial activism, properly understood, is the use of court power to invalidate legislative or executive acts, or to establish legal rules without legislative or executive initiation.

UM American Indian Business Leaders named chapter of the year

UM took home Chapter of the Year honors for 2022 in the University Division of the recent 28th Annual AIBL Leadership Conference in Rancho Mirage, California.

Richard D. Gunlikson, 94

Richard D. Gunlikson passed away peacefully at Logan Health-Whitefish surrounded by his loving family on Sept. 3, 2022.

Teachers among Montana’s most essential workers

The term essential workers is not easily defined, but generally refers to the people who contribute critical services that ensure a well-functioning community.

Letters to the editor Sept. 11

Letters to the editor Sept. 11

Flathead Electric adds position to focus on serving business members

Masa’s desire to be challenged made him the right candidate to blaze the trail as FEC’s new key member advocate.

Support our local nonprofits

The Great Fish Community Challenge has been a game changer for Flathead Valley nonprofits, many of whom rely on funds raised in the Challenge to cover a significant portion, if not all, of their annual operating budget.

Glacier Park bird monitoring part of continent-wide collaboration

The effort is part of the Institute for Bird Populations’ Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) program, a continent-wide collaborative effort among public agencies, non-governmental groups, and individuals to assist the conservation of birds and their habitats.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Julie Thompson Norby, 74

Julie Norby passed away peacefully Sept. 6, 2022, at home with her children by her side.

Rod Bartleson, 83

Rod Bartleson, of Cut Bank, 83, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2022.

Bison and cattle coexist just fine

Earlier this summer, the Montana-based American Prairie organization was approved to graze bison on Bureau of Land Management lands in Central Montana where they hold grazing privileges.

Study finds Montana underpays Medicaid providers by tens of millions

For Dave Eaton, hiring enough staff to help developmentally disabled clients in Livingston with day-to-day tasks is a constant, brutal cycle. Out of every 10 people who come to work at Counterpoint Inc., the small nonprofit he leads, Eaton estimates three leave within a year.

Life extends past remote control

My dad taught me how to change the oil in a car when I was a teenager. A lifelong gearhead, he finally admitted after we groveled around on our backs in the driveway, that I “ought to just start going to one of the places to get ’er done.”

June Elizabeth Brooker, 92

On Sept. 4, 2022, June Elizabeth (Barton) Brooker passed away at Immanuel Lutheran Home of natural causes, at the age of 92.

Race along new Parkline trail set for Sept. 17

The run begins in the northwest corner of the Kalispell Center Mall parking lot i traveling on the new Parkline Trail.

Law roundup: Teens’ good judgment gets scrambled

The Kalispell Police Department didn't crack up over a report of teen boys in a black truck reportedly throwing eggs at passing cars.

After more than a decade on the job, decoy cop car heads for retirement

Lucky was introduced after community members organized an effort to help curb speeding through the area.

Legals for September, 11 2022

Cherris Janelle (Kienas) Collier, 77

Cherris Janelle (Kienas) Collier, 77, passed away peacefully on Aug. 30, 2022, in Kalispell.

Flag football debuts in the valley

Spectators at Legends Stadium witnessed history as Montana high school flag football premiered Saturday morning in the first games played in the Flathead Valley.

Flathead earns volleyball split

Missoula Sentinel topped Flathead in four sets Saturday in Western AA volleyball.

Brisendine scores six in Glacier rout of Butte

Glacier’s Reagan Brisendine exploded for six goals in a 10-0 rout of Butte on Saturday in Western AA soccer.

Bravettes work to a tie with Sentinel

A tough, physical battle between the Flathead Bravettes and Missoula Sentinel Spartans ended in a 0-0 tie Saturday in Western AA soccer.

Wolfpack spikers top Butte

Glacier downed Butte in three sets Saturday in Western AA volleyball.

Griz defense stymies South Dakota in 24-7 win

South Dakota’s defense was pretty fierce Saturday at Washington-Grizzly Stadium. Then there was Montana’s.

PHOTOS: Flathead, Glacier, Butte square off in flag football matchup

Photos from a flag football round-robin featuring Flathead, Glacier and Butte at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Saturday, Sept. 10.

Oregon weathers fire evacuations, power outages in dry winds

OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — Campers at a state park in Oregon had to evacuate after a wildfire ignited and thousands in the state remained without power Saturday after utilities did targeted shutoffs in an effort to lessen the danger in dry and windy conditions.

Montana adopts permanent block on birth certificate changes

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Montana health officials on Friday made permanent a rule that blocks transgender people from changing their birth certificates even if they undergo gender-confirmation surgery.

Bail reduction denied for man accused of pulling gun in separate incidents

Jose Angel Estrello, 39, faces two assault with a weapon charges in a pair of cases working through district court.

Bruins down Braves 51-14

The Flathead Braves fell 51-14 to the Helena Capital Bruins at Legends Stadium on Friday in Western AA football.

Whitefish puts away Maroons; Eureka among NW winners

WHITEFISH — Fynn Ridgeway ran for three touchdowns, Ty Schwaiger added two more and the Whitefish Bulldogs ground down Butte Central 34-20 in Western A football action Friday.

Rumsey Eash tops field at Flathead Invite

Flathead’s Lilli Rumsey Eash surged to the front of the pack to win her second cross country meet of the season at the Flathead Invite at Rebecca Farm on Friday.

Wildkat spikers top Dawgs in 5

Columbia Falls bested rival school Whitefish in Western A volleyball on Thursday, 28-26, 15-25, 25-19, 20-25, 17-15.

ImagineIF launches fall programming

Attendees can sing, dance, read and explore in fun and interactive classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers — with hands-on activities to follow storytime.

Trial in deadly fitness center shooting delayed

Accused killer Jonathan Douglas Shaw saw his trial continued into the next jury term after Flathead District Court Judge Dan Wilson determined Wednesday that a delayed mental health evaluation could leave prosecutors without time to adjust their case.

Developer says KM Ranch project would fill housing need; neighbors lament growth

After hearing about two hours of public comment and receiving around 100 written comments, the planning board on Wednesday voted to push a decision on the request until its Oct. 12 meeting.

Judge restores oil lease on land sacred to US, Canada tribes

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A federal judge on Friday ordered the Biden administration to reinstate a drilling lease that has been in dispute for decades on land near the Blackfeet Indian Reservation that is considered sacred to Native American tribes in the U.S. and Canada.

Gherald 'Jerry' Ray Fredericks, 75

Gherald “Jerry” Ray Fredericks, at 75 years of age, went to live with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sept. 3rd, 2022, in the midst of ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's Disease).

Kalispell couple accused of raiding rural mailboxes sentenced

A Kalispell couple earned prison sentences Sept. 7 for a scheme that saw them steal hundreds of pieces of mail from rural mailboxes in the region while looking for credit cards.

Legals for September, 9 2022

Uniting girls to teach coding

Registration opens for Code Girls United

Flathead County fourth- through eighth-grade girls interested in making a difference in their communities through technology are invited to sign up for Code Girls United.

Law roundup: Band of hooligans throw rocks, and maybe water balloons

A second caller also alerted officers, telling them a thrown rock had broken their windshield. A third caller suggested water balloons also might have been in the mix.

Pack pulls away on Eagles

Gage Sliter threw four touchdown passes, ran for another score and Glacier pulled away to beat feisty Missoula Big Sky 55-14 Thursday at MCPS Stadium.

Whitefish girls, boys romp to wins over Libby

Olivia Genovese continued her hot streak with four goals in a 10-0 win over the visiting Libby Loggers Thursday in Western A soccer.

Avery medalist, Glacier boys win Butte Invite

Tyler Avery fired a second-round 68 to overtake Butte’s Jack Prigge for medalist honors, and Glacier won the boys team title at the Butte Invitational golf meet Thursday.

Vals win thriller vs. Columbia Falls

Bigfork’s Scout Nadeau scored two late goals to lift the Valkyries to a 3-1 victory in a battle with Western A rival Columbia Falls on Thursday.

Kalispell business owner pleads guilty to charge stemming from alleged money mule operation

A Kalispell woman accused of wiring dirty money overseas during a roughly five year span pleaded guilty in federal court Sept. 7 to a charge of unlicensed money transmitting business.

Lemonade Fire expands slightly during red flag weather

A wildfire burning near Marion expanded its footprint by just 17 acres overnight Wednesday, even with critical fire weather threatening much of the region.

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's monarch for 70 years, dies

LONDON (AP) — Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-reigning monarch and a rock of stability across much of a turbulent century, has died. She was 96.

Riders win home finale

A storm that threatened from the east stayed there, the wind blew the smoke out before first pitch, and the Range Riders ended their homestand against the Great Falls Voyagers with a 6-4 victory Wednesday at Flathead Field.

Montana elk management

The best part of Northwest Montana’s archery hunting season for elk will come in two weeks when bull elk will lose much of their normal caution and instinct for survival during the peak of the annual rut.

Extended-stay hotel proposed for Columbia Falls

Flathead Valley developer Mick Ruis is proposing a new four-story hotel at the Glacier Inn Motel site in Columbia Falls.

Legals for September, 8 2022

WTC brings dramatic comedy to the stage

The Whitefish Theatre Co. presents its first Black Curtain theatre production of the 2022-2023 season with “Making God Laugh” by Sean Grennan.

Hockaday hosts open house for educators

The Hockaday Museum of Art is hosting a free open house for teachers and parents teaching from home. From 3:30 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 21.

Man arrested in May standoff receives sentence

The Kalispell man arrested in May after a police standoff in an apartment complex near Liberty Street will spend the next three years in the care of the state Department of Corrections.

Flathead looks to bounce back against Helena Capital

Coming off a landmark victory, the Flathead football team got brought back to earth last Friday with a 38-0 loss at Gallatin.

Man involved in Evergreen slaying receives sentence

A man accused of attempting to help cover up a January homicide in Evergreen was sentenced Sept. 1 to five years with the state Department of Corrections, all suspended.

Northwest Montana Fair sets attendance record

Attendance at last year’s fair was 77,828, which was up considerably from the year before when the fair drew just over 32,000 visitors.

Wolfpack gridders head to MCPS on short rest

On the heels of a walkover-turned-nail-biter, the Glacier Wolfpack football squad has a short week and a game at Missoula Big Sky to contend with.

Fall Mack Days tournament begins next week

The Fall Mack Days fishing tournament on Flathead Lake begins Sept. 15 and ends Nov. 13.

Tanner, Wolfpack boys score low at Butte golf

FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS — Glacier’s Chloe Tanner shot the best round Wednesday, and the Wolfpack boys took the team lead at the two-day Butte Invitational golf tournament at Fairmont Hot Springs.

Bigfork man arrested following fatal collision with motorcycle

A motorist accused of striking and killing a motorcyclist near Somers while drunk last week allegedly admitted drinking before getting behind the wheel, but blamed the subsequent collision on the dead man.

Wofford, Hamby lead Riders Tuesday

Brody Wofford hit an RBI double to spark a four-run first inning, then homered in the sixth as Glacier thumped the Great Falls Voyagers 10-0 in Pioneer League baseball Tuesday.

Compline Choir offers ‘Prayers for Ukraine’

The Kalispell Compline Choir (and Friends) returns Sunday, Sept. 11, to Christ Church Episcopal, 215 Third Ave. E. in Kalispell, for a special edition of "Nightcap for the Soul.”

Can we live with electric mountain bikes on trails?

The first time I saw an electric bike — better known as an ebike — I was struggling up a hill.

Garrison Keillor to judge Whitefish Review’s Humor Writing Contest

Garrison Keillor is serving as the final judge this year for the “Montana Prize for Humor” writing contest offered in three categories by Whitefish Review.

Two hot nights of live comedy on tap at Del’s

Comics stand up for friend during Suicide Prevention Month

Local author and Vietnam vet signs new suspense thriller

Kalispell native and author Stan Bain has begun a new suspense thriller series titled “Contractor.”

Entertainment and Arts Events

Hockaday hosts open house for educators

Battle lines drawn over bison grazing

The American Prairie Reserve’s stated plan to “create the largest nature reserve in the contiguous United States” continues to meet strong rural opposition that is in sharp contrast with supportive views held by wild bison proponents.

Law roundup: Woman airs grievances about rental situation

A woman renting a room from someone renting the townhouse from a property management company allegedly read online to call 911 before an illegal eviction. Her laundry list of grievances included

Kalispell sets hearing for workforce housing financing plan

Kalispell City Council on Tuesday decided to hold a public hearing on a plan that would specifically allow for certain city funds to be used for workforce housing projects.

Climate damage from oil leases on federal land gets second look

The Biden administration reached a legal settlement Tuesday that requires the government to reexamine potential climate damages from oil and gas leases put up for sale under the Trump administration on government land in Montana and North Dakota.

Sentinel spikers down Glacier in 3

MISSOULA — The Missoula Sentinel attackers sent down seven kills each, and the Spartans downed Glacier in three sets in Western AA volleyball Tuesday. Haven Speer had a match-best eight kills for the Wolfpack.

Legals for September, 7 2022

Richard “Rick” Leonard Syth, 63

Richard “Rick” Leonard Syth of Kalispell passed away peacefully, with his daughter and sister by his side, on Aug. 27, 2022, in Kalispell.

Gerald McNeely, 61

Gerald McNeely passed away in Great Falls on Aug. 31, 2022.

Glacier National Park visitation down again in July

Visitation in Glacier National Park continued its downward trend in July as the park saw nearly 75,000 fewer visitors in the month than it did a year ago.

Kalispell man killed in deadly holiday weekend collision

Officers with the Kalispell Police Department joined other emergency responders in heading to the scene at the intersection of East Idaho Street and Third Avenue East North about 5:47 p.m., Sept. 3 following reports of an injured motorcyclist in the roadway.

Summer readers help Whitefish library earn donation

Because summer readers at Whitefish Community Library were up to a challenge set by the Whitefish Credit Union, the Whitefish Lake Institute has $1,503 more to further its mission.

Planning board takes up large development on KM Ranch Road

The planning board meets at 6 p.m. in the Expo Building at the Flathead County Fairgrounds, 265 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Donald James Dvorak, 92

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Don Dvorak, 92, of Columbia Falls, on Aug. 31, 2022, but with the peaceful knowledge that he is in the presence of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Law roundup: Woman hulks out on meth

A man’s 32-year-old daughter reportedly smashed a window out of his truck using her hand before going to her room.

Accused shooter pleads not guilty to multiple charges

Before a nearly full courtroom Tuesday, the man accused of shooting a young local couple — and killing one — during a disagreement involving a golf cart pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including deliberate homicide.

Glacier girls get first win of season

Reagan Brisendine lit up the scoreboard with five goals in the Glacier Wolfpack’s 8-2 win over Missoula Sentinel Tuesday in Western AA soccer.

Special teams roar again for Griz

The Montana Grizzlies won the turnover battle 5-0 Saturday, rushed for over 200 yards, got 10 tackles from Marcus Welnel and got a sack and interception from Patrick O’Connell.

Traffic delays expected in Whitefish as road project begins

Travelers and commuters using Spokane Avenue in Whitefish should expect delays beginning this week as the Spokane Avenue Water Main Replacement Project is set to begin.

Lemonade Fire slows in timber harvest areas

A wildfire burning near Marion slowed its progress over the weekend as it moved into timber harvest areas that were cleared of brush, fire officials reported Tuesday.

Logan Health donates land for new MSU nursing education building in Kalispell

BOZEMAN — Logan Health has signed a letter of intent to donate land for a new nursing education building in Kalispell to be built with a portion of a $101 million investment by Flathead Valley philanthropists Mark and Robyn Jones to Montana State University.

Letters to the editor Sept. 6

Letters to the editor Sept. 6

Residency program benefits future educators, school districts

The Montana Office of Public Instruction is hoping to address teacher shortages and better prepare future educators by incentivizing traditionally unpaid student teachers to work in rural or high-needs schools by offering stipends, housing and tuition support.

Legals for September, 6 2022

Kalispell Council considers transportation planning grant apps

The meeting starts at 7 p.m. in the City Hall, 201 First Avenue East.

Law roundup: Rocket launchers and grenades for sale

A passerby thought it was suspicious that people standing on a corner allegedly had signs about selling rocket launchers and rocket-propelled grenades. Kalispell Police Department officers only located

Large-scale subdivision heads before Whitefish Council

Whitefish City Council on Tuesday is set to vote on a 92-acre subdivision proposed on East Edgewood Drive that would include industrial lots, multi-family development and single-family lots.

Coast Guard ends search for 9 missing in floatplane crash

The U.S. Coast Guard suspended the search Monday afternoon for nine people, including a child, who were missing after a floatplane crashed in the waters of Puget Sound northwest of Seattle.

Canadian police: 1 suspect in stabbings has been found dead

One of the suspects in the stabbing deaths of 10 people in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan has been found dead, and his injuries are not self inflicted, police said Monday as they continued the search for a second suspect.

Lucy Smith — A heart for lifelong service

From saying yes to countless local community projects to teaching English as a second language to standing in as a birth attendant and driving an ambulance in Africa, Lucy Smith has volunteered in myriad ways here at home and in diverse world cultures.

Letters to the editor Sept. 5

Letters to the editor Sept. 5

Births

Births

Legals for September, 5 2022

We don’t need anti-democratic primary systems

Marc Racicot and Bob Brown published an editorial arguing Montana should adopt a top two or a top four primary election system.

Law roundup: Whistling while working is not a crime

A man’s purported hour-long whistling while he worked in an area of a bank grated on a woman’s nerves enough to have her husband confront him, which proved to be unsuccessful. She then complained to the Kalispell Police Department that the cleaning service was

Stabbings in Canada kill 10, wound 15; suspects at large

REGINA, Saskatchewan (AP) — A series of stabbings at an Indigenous community and at another town nearby in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan left 10 people dead and 15 wounded, Canadian police said Sunday as they searched for two suspects.

Fire near Marion grows to 500 acres

A fire that cropped up west of Kalispell on Sept. 1 drew a significant firefighter response over the weekend.

Grants assist in growing child care options

Finding child care in the Flathead Valley can be stressful for parents as a lack of spaces brings long wait lists. At the same time, business leaders face their own challenges as employees miss work because of gaps in the system and are often unable to recruit untapped workers who can’t secure child care.

Neil Harvey Eliason, 90

After 90 years of living a vibrant, accomplished life, Neil Harvey Eliason passed away on Aug. 25, 2022, in Kalispell.

Timeless tales and other worlds

I was one of the 10 million, even though I never started watching the original series, but probably will sometime in the future.

Veterinarian focuses on treating athlete horses

With a substantial equine presence in the Flathead, and not many options for care in the performance horse world, Cierra Dedeker’s practice has quickly flourished.

County leaves public safety funding on the table

Flathead County Commissioners last week took an earful about the dire need for more funding for the Sheriff’s Office — and the message came straight from the horse’s mouth, so to speak.

Rose Mary Dahl McLean, 92

Rose Mary Dahl McLean, 92, passed away peacefully at Prestige Assisted Living in Kalispell on July 13, 2022.

Donation to foundation translates to safety equipment for sheriff's office K-9

The nonprofit Flathead K9 Foundation bringing the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office and Flathead County Search and Rescue K-9s under one umbrella.

Joan Siderius, 57

Joan Siderius, 57, passed away on Aug. 21, 2022 in Kalispell from stupid cancer.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Scientists puts DNA microscope on studying harlequin duck population

While data from the harlequin’s wintering range has shown a steady decline in population numbers of the past years, gathering information from the duck’s breeding habitat has always been a struggle for biologists.

Leonard 'Len' Carson Mitchell, 92

Leonard “Len” Carson Mitchell, 92, of Columbia Falls, passed away peacefully on Aug. 6, 2022, at Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation.

Implications of allowing bison to graze public lands

The Montana Cattlemen’s Association is disappointed in the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) decision to authorize the American Prairie Reserve to use 63,065 acres of public lands in Phillips County for bison.

Law roundup: Woman deflates tires to get time with man

Whitefish Police Department received a report about a woman who allegedly wanted to spend time with a man and let the air out of his tires and punctured them so he couldn’t drive.

Build it and they will come

When a developer seeks to build 268 housing units and 73 resort RV stalls in one of the most beautiful places in Montana, ‘they’ will come.

Letters to the editor Sept. 4

Letters to the editor Sept. 4

Free and open primary elections

In his farewell address, George Washington, “In contemplating the causes which may disturb our Union” warned of the grave dangers of political parties then just developing at the time of his departure from the presidency.

Sweeping Inflation Reduction Act could transform energy development in Montana

In an effort to understand what the IRA means for Montana, a net exporter of energy that supplies power to the grids of surrounding states in addition to Montana businesses and homes, Montana Free Press contacted stakeholders in the state’s energy industry for their read on particularly important pieces of the bill, which will funnel $7 billion into investments in clean power generation and storage into the state by 2030 according to the White House’s analysis.

Legals for September, 4 2022

Sundberg, Wildcats down Locomotives

Finley Sundberg scored a hat trick to lead the Columbia Falls Wildcats to a 6-0 victory against the Laurel Locomotives on Saturday.

Knights edge Bravettes, 3-2

Chloe Andersen’s go-ahead goal late in the second half lifted the Hellgate Knights to a 3-2 victory over the Flathead Bravettes on Saturday in Western AA soccer.

Wildcats grab 43-6 win over Vigilantes

The Columbia Falls Wildcats pounced on the East Helena Vigilantes early and often Friday night in Helena to grab a 43-6 road win.

Bulldogs blank Lone Peak

Six players scored a goal Saturday for the Whitefish Bulldogs in a 6-0 win over Lone Peak in non-conference Class A soccer at Smith Fields.

Kalispell man dies in crash Friday

A 47-year-old Kalispell man died in a crash in Somers Friday when his motorcycle collided with a truck, trapping him underneath.

Montana works to solve its struggles with teacher pay

Olivia DeJohn laughs as she chalks up having found a classroom she loves so early in her teaching career to serendipity. She teaches second grade at Missoula’s Paxson Elementary School, a job she quips “fell into my lap.”

Glacier Park moves into fall operation schedule

As the autumn season approaches, operations in Glacier National park will start winding down, park officials announced Friday.

Whitefish sweeps Livingston

Whitefish’s Delaney Smith scored four goals and Olivia Genovese scored three Friday to help the Bulldogs to a 10-0 win over the Livingston Rangers in a non-conference Class A game at Smith Fields.

C-Falls squads sweep Lockwood

Hope McAtee scored twice to help the Columbia Falls Wildkats top the Lockwood Lions 4-2 Friday in a non-conference Class A soccer game.

Wilson, Pirates swamp Yellowjackets

POLSON – Jarrett Wilson led the Polson Pirates in passing and rushing yards in a 49-0 rout of the Stevensville Yellowjackets Friday night in Class A football.

Sliter slings Wolfpack to victory

The home crowd at Legends Stadium witnessed a thriller as the Glacier Wolfpack held off a second-half surge from the CMR Rustlers of Great Falls to win 42-35 Friday in Western AA football.

PHOTOS: Wolfpack rallies past Rustlers, 42-35

Photos from Glacier's 42-35 win over Great Falls CMR in Class AA high school football at Legends Stadium on Friday, Sept. 2.

Lower US job gain in August could aid Fed's inflation fight

The economy gained 315,000 jobs in August, a still-solid figure that pointed to an economy that remains resilient despite rising interest rates, high inflation and sluggish consumer spending.

Biden taps Montana law professor to be 9th Circuit judge

President Joe Biden nominated has nominated a University of Montana law professor to be a judge on the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

Evergreen water lifts boil advisory

A boil advisory was issued on Monday, Aug. 29 after possible contamination of the water following an equipment failure.

Libby boys out-stride Eureka

EUREKA — Libby had the fastest boy at the Eureka triangular cross country meet Thurday, but the host Lions won the team title by a little over nine seconds.

Tim Grattan

Tim Grattan died peacefully at home, Saturday, Aug. 27, 2022

School districts start class next week

School districts start class next week

More than gift of learning this month with library card sign up

More than gift of learning this month with library card sign up

Gianforte claiming executive privilege in public records lawsuit

Gov. Greg Gianforte doubled down on his claim of executive privilege in the latest filings in a lawsuit concerning whether forms his office used to track legislation during the 2021 legislative session should be available to the public.

Legals for September, 2 2022

Law roundup: No ovation for street performer

A guy reportedly playing a “fake violin” was panhandling while three children ran around in the grass and someone was concerned about people’s safety because the children kept running toward the road causing cars to hit their brakes.

Hail storm leaves ‘sores and cankers’ on pine trees around Bigfork

Red foliage growing from ponderosa pines, as well as red “sores or cankers” on pinecones, consistent with the fungus diplodia, have been reported near Bigfork, Woods Bay and Echo Lake.

0902 death notice

Anthony N. "Tony" Giardina, 54

Wolfpack boys blank Eagles

A tough goalie was no match for the Glacier Wolfpack boys, who defeated Big Sky 4-0 in Western AA soccer on Tuesday.

Libby's Malyevac fires 65 to win Frenchtown Invitational golf

FRENCHTOWN – Libby’s Reece Malyevac fired a 65 to win medalist at the Frenchtown Invitational Tuesday.

Wolfpack harriers run at Coaches Invite

MISSOULA — Missoula Hellgate’s Finneas Colescott was the fastest man at the Coaches Invitational cross country meet Thursday, and it wasn’t real close.

Big Sky Conference football starts flying Saturday

The Big Sky Conference season is upon us, with four games happening Thursday night, and while one important question has been answered — Marcus Welnel is No. 37 for the Griz — others remain.

Glacier golfers sweep Whitefish Triangular

WHITEFISH – Glacier swept the team titles at the Whitefish Triangular Tuesday, as well as medalist honors at the meet, held at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.

Numerous new fires crop up after lightning storm

A handful of new wildfires cropped up Wednesday night across Northwest Montana as thunder and lightning storms moved over the region.

Kalispell woman killed, man charged in fatal crash

A Missoula man with a criminal record is charged with vehicular homicide after his passenger was killed in a crash near Martin City on Monday evening.

Kalispell man killed in U.S. 93 motorcycle crash

A Kalispell man died in a motorcycle crash north of Kalispell on Tuesday.

Coming soon, The Apocalypse, maybe

Just about every video game, young adult novel and buzz-worthy streaming series agree that we need to prepare for a post-apocalyptic world. Up ahead, around a sharp curve or off a cliff, it is waiting — The Apocalypse.

Children’s Playhouse holds auditions for ‘Annie Jr.’

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theater invites students in grades two through 12 to audition, Tuesday, Sept. 6, (the day after Labor Day) for the cast of the hit musical “Annie Jr.”

Legals for September, 1 2022

First Friday event showcases Therese LaChance Ely

Phillips Studio & Gallery is celebrating the season with “Turn of the Seasons” exhibition of works by award winning artist, Therese LaChance Ely.

Donald D. Nerdig, 75

Donald D. Nerdig, 75, of Columbia Falls, passed away Aug. 4, 2022.

Valley Voices Choir returns to rehearsals

The Valley Voices Community Choir is reorganizing after a nearly three-year hiatus due to the pandemic.

Letters to the editor Sept. 1

Letters to the editor Sept. 1

WCC offers two first-class acts in November

November is boasting two first-class acts at the Wachholz College Center on the Flathead Valley Community College campus.

Hockaday’s Plein Air Glacier event set for September

The Hockaday Museum of Arts 15th annual Plein Air Glacier: Paint Out, Exhibition and Sale takes place in September with selected established painters from Montana and around the country painting in Glacier National Park and nearby Swan and Flathead Valleys.

Kalispell Vietnam vet spins new suspense series

Kalispell native and author Stan Bain has begun a new suspense thriller series titled “Contractor.”

Law roundup: Woman asks police to rampage through ‘drug house’

A distraught woman reportedly told the Kalispell Police Department she was confronted by a man who grabbed something from the back of his truck and started coming toward her, yelling “profane things” after she asked him and another man what they were doing in an alley and to move their vehicle, which was blocking her driveway.

Whitefish galleries focus on First Thursday

Cawdrey Gallery in Whitefish is featuring local emerging artists Madison Apple and Morgan Cawdrey for the First Thursday, Sept. 1

Entertainment briefs

Ninepipes Museum hosts First Saturday

Joseph John Ries, 91

On Monday, Aug. 29, 2022, at 11:27 p.m., Joseph John Ries, 91 years old, passed away peacefully of natural causes at the BeeHive assisted living facility in Kalispell.

Freedom of religion

The story of America is the story of the individual and the protection of the individual from government, from the powerful, from those who “know better” than we do.