Ellington

Law roundup: Officers uninterested in joining Bay Watch

Whitefish Police Department received a call from a neighborhood busybody who reportedly saw 20 to 25 kids trespassing on a private beach area and wanted to know if anyone in the group lived within the homeowners’ association (HOA), noting their husband was on the board.

Some fire restrictions lifted, Hungry Horse Reservoir reopens after rainstorm

Two days of healthy rainfall and cool temperatures across Northwest Montana brought an abrupt end to fire restrictions, while some public closures and evacuation notices were lifted.

Trump pleads not guilty in Georgia election subversion case and says he'll skip next week's hearing

ATLANTA (AP) — Former President Donald Trump pleaded not guilty on Thursday and said he'll skip a hearing next week in the case accusing him and others of illegally trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election in Georgia.

Fed's preferred inflation gauge shows a modest rise in latest sign of slowing price increases

WASHINGTON (AP) — An inflation gauge closely tracked by the Federal Reserve remained low last month, adding to signs of cooling price increases and raising the likelihood that the Fed will leave interest rates unchanged when it next meets in late September.

Tropical Storm Idalia swoops through Carolinas, leaves a trail of destruction in Florida and Georgia

PERRY, Fla. (AP) — Tropical Storm Idalia descended on the Carolinas on its way out to the Atlantic Ocean on Thursday, leaving a trail of flooding and destruction in the Southeast stretching back to Florida, where it first roared ashore as a major hurricane.

Top prosecutors back compensation for those sickened by US nuclear weapons testing

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez and 13 other top prosecutors from around the U.S. are throwing their support behind efforts to compensate people sickened by exposure to radiation during nuclear weapons testing.

Motorcyclist dies after hitting power pole near Whitefish

Alcohol, drugs and speed are suspected as factors in a fatal motorcycle crash near Whitefish on Aug. 29, according to Montana Highway Patrol.

Legals for August, 31 2023

Hearing held on Glacier National Park house while a lawsuit waits in the wings

The owners of a house in Glacier National Park made their case as to why it should be allowed to remain on the banks of McDonald Creek during a hearing last week in front of the Flathead Conservation Board and hearing officer Laurie Zeller.

Shoplifting suspect accused of threatening arresting officer

A Kalispell man accused of shoplifting earlier this month racked up a felony charge after allegedly threatening to kill the arresting police officer.

Timber harvesting and wild game

For this outdoor column, I want to discuss how to improve big game populations in Northwest Montana.

Three Dog Night to perform with guest Cole Larravide

Rock band Three Dog Night and special guest indie rock artist Cole Larravide take the stage at the Wachholz College Center in Kalispell Oct. 26.

Kalispell City Council discusses increasing demands on fire, emergency medical services

Kalispell City Council reviewed Monday a third-party report that found that the city’s fire and emergency medical services are understaffed.

Thomas "Whale" Wendt, 84

Thomas "Whale" Wendt

WTC holds auditions for ‘Kalamazoo’

Auditions for “Kalamazoo” will be held on Sunday, Sept. 3 at 7 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Picking a QB — it’s so 2003

That the Montana Grizzlies haven’t decided on a quarterback might seem news to some, as the squad prepares to open their season against Butler at noon Saturday.

Fire prevention requires close and careful attention to conditions, utilities say

COEUR D’ALENE — The interaction of electrical lines and the landscape around them, especially trees, often ends badly — it can cause power outages any time of year, but in the summer in particular it can cause fires. Keeping fires from happening requires close attention to power lines and the areas around them, and that’s not just a summer job.

Abell fails to understand complexity of homelessness

Commissioner Abell’s Aug. 20 opinion piece (Homeless are taking advantage of Flathead Valley’s generosity) shows he has learned little since January.

Jimmy Carter: Last days of a good life

In late August it was reported that Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter had entered their “final days.”

Rape suspect dies ahead of change of plea hearing

A Kila man accused of raping a 9-year-old girl in 2020 has died ahead of a scheduled change of plea hearing in Flathead County District Court.

John Lowell Duo take the stage in Polebridge

Home Ranch Bottoms in Polebridge brings the John Lowell Duo and David Piland to the stage Sept 1.

Glacier National Park officials talk access, ticketed entry with visitors and stakeholders

Glacier National Park officials gave people a chance to voice their opinions about park access in person at two different open houses this week.

Letters to the editor Aug. 31

Letters to the editor Aug. 31

World-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma set to perform in Kalispell in 2024

Having captivated hearts and souls with his virtuoso talent for over four decades, Yo-Yo Ma is celebrated as one of the greatest cellists of our time.

One World — Two Views exhibit features new work by Polson artists

New work by Polson painters David and Bobbie Hafer is the focus of the One World – Two Views exhibition at Phillips Gallery in Kalispell.

Flathead, Glacier soccer ready for home matches

The Western AA soccer season got underway Saturday, with Glacier and Flathead both visiting Missoula for tilts against Sentinel and Hellgate.

Arts and Entertainment Events

Arts and Entertainment events

Sprunger, Kalispell educators celebrate boost to intership effort

Emmery Schmidt knew she wanted to be a teacher when she was in elementary school. Now a junior in high school, Schmidt confirmed she was cut out for the job through several internships.

Search continues for missing climber in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park officials are asking for assistance in locating a man who went missing climbing Reynolds Mountain on Tuesday near Logan Pass.

Judge's illness delays sentencing for ex-Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio in Jan. 6 case

WASHINGTON (AP) — The sentencing for former Proud Boys national leader Enrique Tarrio, who was convicted of orchestrating the far-right extremist group's attack on the U.S. Capitol after Donald Trump lost the 2020 election, has been delayed until next week because the judge hearing the case became sick.

Hurricane Idalia unleashes fury on Georgia and Florida, swamping the coast and closing highways

CEDAR KEY, Fla. (AP) — Hurricane Idalia made landfall Wednesday in Florida as a Category 3 storm and unleashed devastation along a wide stretch of the Gulf Coast, submerging homes and vehicles, turning streets into rivers, unmooring small boats and downing power lines in an area that has never before received such a pummeling.

Whitefish grad builds pavilion to earn Eagle Scout

A beautifully constructed pavilion now stands at the Whitefish Airport off East Second Street. The natural wood pillars combined with steel roofing and an intricate sign make the new addition to the airport stand out to passersby.

Wolfpack storms away from Flathead in Crosstown Cup

The 2023 Crosstown Cup beat the weather, kind of, and the Glacier Wolfpack golfers beat Flathead in the annual Ryder Cup-style event at Village Greens.

Kalispell felon pleads guilty in federal court

Kyle Kenneth Smith, 33, has pleaded guilty to a prohibited person in possession of a firearm charge in U.S. District Court in Missoula.

Montana Department of Revenue sees record number of appeals to property tax appraisals

The Montana Department Revenue has received the highest number of appeals for property tax appraisals since 2015, before the state went on a two-year reappraisal cycle.

Man accused of threatening resident while cutting through screen door

Michael Allen Bacon is expected to appear before Judge Amy Eddy on Sept. 14 for his arraignment on a single count of assault with a weapon.

State argues Montana’s drag restriction should take effect

An attorney representing the Montana Attorney General’s Office and the Office of Public Instruction argued in federal court Monday that a state law restricting drag story hours and certain performances should take effect while a legal challenge against it continues — and that the lawsuit itself is misguided.

Impact of proposed bond for Whitefish High School expansion decreases

Voters are set to decide the bond election during a mail-in ballot on Oct. 3.

Law roundup: Car hopper pesters person inside vehicle

A blonde woman wearing a camo-printed coat reportedly tried to get into vehicles — including one a man was sitting inside — which apparently was fine with her because she wouldn’t leave him alone.

U.S. News ranks Whitefish third among Montana high schools

Whitefish High School ranked third among Montana public high schools for the second consecutive year, according to the U.S. News & World Report’s 2023-24 Best High Schools.

Legals for August, 30 2023

Mineral County business owner bakes for the community

These days, it seems everything can be made to order and deliverable to your front door. Well now in Superior and St. Regis, that can also include homemade baked goods.

Columbia Falls sweeps Frenchtown teams in soccer home opener

Six different players scored Tuesday to help the Columbia Falls Wildkats top Frenchtown 10-0 in a mercy-rule shortened Northwest A girls soccer game

Chukars pluck first game from Riders

The beginning was certainly solid for the Glacier Range Riders Tuesday; the ending not so much.

Hurricane Idalia chases Florida residents from the Gulf Coast as forecasters warn of storm surge

CEDAR KEY, Fla. (AP) — Idalia strengthened into a hurricane Tuesday and barreled toward Florida's Gulf Coast as authorities warned residents of vulnerable areas to pack up and leave to escape the twin threats of high winds and devastating flooding.

No. 2 House Republican Steve Scalise is diagnosed with blood cancer and undergoing treatment

WASHINGTON (AP) — Rep. Steve Scalise, the No. 2-ranking House Republican, said Tuesday he has been diagnosed with a form of blood cancer known as multiple myeloma and is undergoing treatment.

10 drugs targeted for Medicare price negotiations as Biden pitches cost reductions

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden touted the potential cost savings of Medicare's first-ever price negotiations for widely used prescription drugs on Tuesday as he struggles to convince Americans that he's improved their lives as he runs for reelection.

EPA says Libby meets national air quality standards

Efforts by the state and Lincoln County successfully reduce particulate matter pollution.

Legals for August, 29 2023

Letters to the editor Aug. 29

Letters to the editor Aug. 29

Grizzly killed in self-defense in the Whitefish Range

A pair of men from Whitefish were scouting for hunting season around the Smokey Range Trailhead off Canyon Creek Road on the Flathead National Forest when they stumbled upon an adult bear and a cub in a thick section of forest, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Shirley Pace

Shirley Pace

Lethal experiment at Gunsight Lake

Glacier National Park just approved an ambitious and untested experiment at Gunsight Lake in the St. Mary watershed.

Law Roundup: Classic car pulled out of Swan River

A restored classic car was pulled out of the Swan River. The owner allegedly called the Kalispell Police Department to report the car stolen, saying the vehicle had broken down at the location Saturday night and he was waiting for it to be towed.

Report scrutinizes pay for inmates deployed to fight Montana wildfires

The Montana Department of Corrections deployed 15 inmates and three correctional officers to help fight a wildfire in the state earlier this month, the DOC said in a news release.

County aims to curb jumping from Flathead River bridges

Flathead County plans to post new signs warning people that jumping from county bridges into the Flathead River is not allowed.

Cold rain to bring more drought and wildfire relief to Northwest Montana

Another soaking rain is on track to douse parched Northwest Montana beginning Tuesday night.

Petroleum asphalt remains in Yellowstone River after derailment cleanup

Two months after a railroad bridge collapse sent carloads of hazardous oil products plunging into Montana's Yellowstone River, the cleanup workers are gone and a mess remains.

Florida braces as Tropical Storm Idalia intensifies

Florida residents loaded up on sandbags and evacuated from homes in low-lying areas along the Gulf Coast as Tropical Storm Idalia intensified Monday and forecasters predicted it would hit within days as a major hurricane with potentially life-threatening storm surges.

Kalispell Council to review analysis of Fire Department

The report by consultant Center for Public Safety Management identifies recommendations in operations, staffing and facilities in accordance with industry best practices. Council already reviewed a similar report for the Police Department.

Letters to the editor Aug. 28

Letters to the editor Aug. 28

Author fishes his way to Montana

Originally from the Midwest, Zucker grew up fishing in Wisconsin and Minnesota with his brother. They would retreat from the south side of Chicago, home for much of his childhood, and look for walleyes in Minnesota.

Climate activists target jets, yachts and golf in a string of global protests against luxury

Climate activism has intensified in the past few years as the planet warms to dangerous levels, igniting more extreme heat, floods, storms and wildfires around the world.

Legals for August, 28 2023

Law roundup: Mom asks police if she can spank child

A mother allegedly beat her neighbor to the punch in calling the Kalispell Police Department after the neighbor threatened to call officers when she spanked her child. She wanted

US, China agree to discuss export controls as commerce secretary visits to warm up chilly ties

Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said she and her Chinese counterpart agreed Monday to exchange information on U.S. export controls that frustrate Beijing and set up a group to discuss other commercial issues, but neither side appeared ready to make concessions on disputes that have plunged relations to their lowest level in decades.

Workers exposed to extreme heat have no consistent protection in the US

State and federal agencies are scrambling to find measures to combat what experts call one of the harshest and most neglected effects of climate change in the U.S.: rising heat deaths and injuries of people who work in triple-digit temperatures.

Plots’ points send a message

My family often braked for graveyards in our decades of Montana adventures, and I fondly recall the first cross-country meet of the season in high school, which took place in an Anaconda cemetery.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Republican property tax fumble reveals corporate Oz behind the curtain

Growing up in Butte, Montana, I remember watching "The Wizard of Oz" in my family’s living room, mesmerized by the fiery, all-powerful Oz and wondering who he really was.

Wildland firefighters need our support

At any given moment during this smoky summer of 2023, hundreds of wildfires were blazing in the United States — more than 850 as of late July, according to the nonprofit Fire, Weather and Avalanche Center.

David Michael Fredericks, 66

David Michael Fredericks

Federal money secured for second phase of Evergreen’s sidewalks projects

Ranking it as the top transportation alternative project of the year, the state Department of Transportation recently awarded the unincorporated community $999,655 in federal funding.

Law Roundup: Walking with road rage

After walking in active traffic while drinking a beer near Town Pump and Home Depot, a man started screaming at everyone. The caller said he almost got hit by a car twice, according to the Kalispell Police Department.

Aromatic beauty on display at Somers lavender farm

The family farm, Longview Lavender Farm, located on the north side of Flathead Lake just past Somers, is composed of thousands of plants surrounded by a white picket fence.

Global inflation pressures could become harder to manage in coming years, research suggests

The prevalence of such trends across the world could intensify global inflation pressures in the coming years and make it harder for the Federal Reserve and other central banks to meet their inflation targets.

Harris, Wildkats upend Rangers, 5-1

Josie Harris scored a hat trick for the Columbia Falls Wildkats in a 5-1 win against the Livingston Rangers in Northwest A soccer on Saturday.

Marilyn Mae (Claridge) Cartwright, 87

Marilyn Mae (Claridge) Cartwright

Legals for August, 27 2023

Children’s boutique grows into second shop in downtown Kalispell

Amber Roper has owned the business since 2016. The new store on First Avenue East opened in the former Bias Brewing building in May.

Support making resort tax funds available for community housing

he 3% fee on luxury and tourist-related purchases has substantially reduced local homeowner’s property taxes over the decades.

Judy Delmoe Mohrenweiser, 83

Judy Delmoe Mohrenweiser

Law roundup: Thief wants ticket in exchange for wallet

A man reportedly told the Kalispell Police Department that he stole from a store that stole his wallet in an incident about two weeks ago. The man said he left the store when they took his wallet, which he wanted back. The simpleton

Wolfpack boys edge Sentinel, 1-0

Elias Holly scored in the first half and that was all the Glacier Wolfpack needed to beat Missoula Sentinel in the season opener for both teams on Saturday.

Range Riders romp over PaddleHeads Friday

Mason Dinesen’s two-run double in the second inning started things for Glacier, and his bunt single in the eighth pretty much capped the Range Riders’ 10-3 Pioneer League win over Missoula Friday.

Kalispell boarding house offers affordable rent in community setting

Kalispell’s last remaining boarding house might not look like much, but the building is quietly playing an important role in providing affordable housing to people who might otherwise be living on the city’s streets.

James William Robbins, 95

James William Robbins

Ramifications of proposed Bigfork development

I spoke at the Bigfork Land and Use Advisory Committee on July 27. Jeremy Weber, editor of the Bigfork Eagle, wrote an article and used some of my comments.

GOP strategy to help the housing crisis is to increase property taxes

Across western Montana, people are being squeezed out of their homes and communities by rising prices.

Columbia Falls pulls away at Frenchtown

FRENCHTOWN — Reggie Sapa scored two touchdowns and Columbia Falls used four third-quarter touchdowns to put away Frenchtown 42-14 in Western A football Friday.

Rustlers shut out Flathead, 33-0

GREAT FALLS — The Great Falls Russell defense picked off four passes, Caleb Taylor three two touchdown passes and the Rustlers beat Flathead 33-0 in the football opener for both teams.

Montana receives $10.4 million gift to state historical center

Gov. Greg Gianforte and Montana Historical Society Director Molly Kruckenberg have jointly announced that Montana native Norm Asbjornson has donated $10.4 million for the construction of the new Montana Heritage Center in Helena.

AA Football: Pack swamps Bison

Glacier quarterback Jackson Presley lived up to the hype Friday, completing 19 of 26 passes in the Wolfpack’s 44-0 runaway win over Great Falls High, at Legends Stadium.

PHOTOS: Glacier opens season with 44-0 win over Great Falls

Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack's 44-0 victory over the Great Falls Bison at Legends Stadium on Friday, Aug. 25.

Trump surrenders to law enforcement in Georgia election case

The booking photo instantly becomes part of the former president's legacy as he confronts criminal charges in four American cities while seeking to reclaim the White House.

Deep Wolfpack ready for banner ‘23 season

The Glacier Wolfpack have played for three State AA football championships and won one, so it’s saying something that this 2023 squad might set the high-water mark for the program.

Market Livestock Sale hits record of more than $1 million in sales

Nearly 300 animals were sold at the auction on Aug. 19 at the Trade Center at the fairgrounds.

Few hospitalizations result from small uptick in Covid-19 cases

The Flathead City-County Health Department has seen a slight uptick in Covid-19 cases reported to them in the past few months.

School bells ring in the 2023-24 year next week

Most schools around the valley start the 2023-24 school year next week with some starting in September.

Range Riders rally, but get KO’d by Missoula

So close. The Glacier Range Riders scored the tying run on a bloop single by Benjamin Fitzgerald in the ninth inning Thursday night, but the would-be winning run — Crews Taylor — was called out in a hotly disputed play at the plate at Glacier Bank Park.

Ridge Fire provides opportunity for research as it burns experimental forest

The lightning-caused Ridge Fire along the Hungry Horse Reservoir is burning in a portion of the Coram Experimental Forest and the Coram Research Natural Area, both of which have been set aside for researchers to study western larch regeneration and management.

Despite rain stage 2 restrictions continue as crews battle fires

Restrictions are in place for Flathead, Lake, Lincoln and Sanders counties. The restrictions also affect Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks jurisdictions within the counties, as well as the Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park.

Lake County: A century old and looking to the next 100 years

Retired District Court Judge Jim Manley reminded an audience of several hundred Saturday that the 1923 election that created Lake County was probably “the first time most women here ever got to vote,” thanks to the 19th Amendment, passed in 1920.

Montana Attorney General argues state’s TikTok ban doesn’t violate First Amendment

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen argued the recently passed law banning TikTok in Montana doesn’t impede the First Amendment or violate commerce regulations in court documents submitted last week.

Richard "Dick" Reilly, 77

Richard "Dick" Reilly

Flathead gridders have outside shot

It makes sense for the Flathead Braves, a one-win football team a year ago, to be only looking up this season. Especially if they look outside the hash marks.

Legals for August, 25 2023

Kalispell man sentenced to federal prison for threatening to kill US Sen. Jon Tester

Kevin Patrick Smith, of Kalispell, pleaded guilty in April to one count of threats to injure and murder a U.S. senator.

Tester asks TSA to delay employee screening rule

Sen. Jon Tester has called on the Transportation Security Administration to delay implementation of new rules that would require airports to physically screen employees.

Flathead lawmakers lead effort to draft Rosendale for Senate race

A bevy of conservative state lawmakers threw their support behind U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale as the best person to oust incumbent Sen. Jon Tester in 2024 last week, though Rosendale has yet to formally announce his candidacy.

Hearing could decide fate of house in Glacier

The Flathead Conservation District will hold a hearing Aug. 25 on a home it argues was built illegally on the bank of McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park.

Storyteller Chris La Tray selected as Montana’s next poet laureate

A Métis storyteller, he shares his life and observations of the world through writing.

Musician draws inspiration, love of music from family

Singer-songwriter Kelly Diane’s lifelong passion for music stems from her rebellious Amish grandfather who decided to pick up a guitar, despite his church’s disapproval.

Volunteer writing coaches sought in Flathead County

Writing Coaches of Montana seeks volunteers to help students in Flathead County public schools improve their writing skills.

Timothy Ryan Lockwood, 37

Timothy Ryan Lockwood

Press Play concert series supports newspaper education program

The Press Play concert kicks off Friday, Sept. 1 with a performance by Kelly Diane, who will be sharing her talents as a singer, keyboardist and accordion player. The concert begins at noon.

Polson golfers sweep Corvallis Invitational

Ashley Maki won medalist honors and both the Polson boys and girls were team champions at the Corvallis Invitational that concluded at Double Arrow Golf Course on Tuesday.

Wildcat footballers ready for Western A run

Of the many encouraging things about this football season in Columbia Falls, the biggest is that quarterback Cody Schweikert could be a one-way player.

Legals for August, 24 2023

It’s time to claim your property tax rebate

It’s time to claim your property tax rebate

Library holds block party

Bias Brewing and ImagineIF Libraries are teaming up to celebrate National Library Card Sign-up Month at a "Get Carded" Block Party at Bias Brewing on Sept. 1, from 4-8 p.m.

Crews continue to build lines around River Road East Fire

Officials said that firefighters took advantage of subdued fire activity Tuesday to work on direct control lines along the fire’s north side, in the Henry Creek area.

Museum offers second course in the art of bookbinding

Take a page out of history and learn the art of bookbinding at the Northwest Montana History Museum in Kalispell.

Law roundup: Godzilla returns in ‘Botched Beer Run’

A drunk man in a red truck reportedly went to the store to buy beer. When employees told him they wouldn’t sell it to him because it was after 2 a.m. he put the beer down and left. But it didn’t end there.

A Pilgrim’s Journey: Community says goodbye to beloved Polson pastor John Payne

A chorus of well-wishers gathered in a grassy courtyard at St. Joseph Medical Center recently to say so-long to hospital chaplain and local pastor John Payne, who has since moved to Whidbey Island, near Seattle.

Letters to the editor Aug. 24

Letters to the editor Aug. 24

Tickets on sale to see Eagles tribute band

Not many tickets are left to see The Eagles tribute concert band, which is performing for two nights only at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Gerald L Baldik, 76

Gerald Baldik

Attorney for Lewis and Clark County dismisses charges for arrested Montana Capitol protesters

The Lewis and Clark County Attorney’s Office dismissed cases against all seven of the protesters who were arrested at the Montana State Capitol in April.

Baking bread for fall

If you look carefully around the valley, you may see some of our local bakeries producing their own interpretations.

Kalispell City Council finalizes $141M budget

Kalispell City Council approved the municipality’s $141 million budget and mill levy for fiscal year 2024 on Monday.

Legals for August, 23 2023

Kalispell Fire Department ready to deploy new drone

Kalispell firefighters are excited by the potential of their newest emergency response tool, a sophisticated drone that they say will keep first responders safer and help them handle a variety of emergencies.

Dinesen tallies twice in Range Riders win

Mason Dinesen had two hits and scored two big runs, and Glacier made a 3-0 lead hold up for a 3-2 Pioneer League win over the Missoula PaddleHeads Tuesday, at Glacier Bank Park.

Former lawmakers propose ballot initiatives that would open primaries

The ballot initiatives, which are being reviewed before signature collecting can start, would make Montana primaries all open, and the top four vote-getters would advance to the general election, despite party affiliation or endorsement.

Law roundup: Strangers puts syringes in dogs’ mouths

A strange woman in a black truck reportedly put a syringe filled with a liquid that looked like blood in the mouths of at least two dogs, telling bystanders it was “iron and enzymes.”

Glacier boys surge to Missoula golf title

The Glacier boys were looking up at Missoula Sentinel golfers after the first day of the Missoula Invitational, played at Larchmont Golf Course Monday.

Eureka Lions poised to take tough 7-B

The District 7-B received another makeover this school year, with Bigfork moving to Class A and the Whitehall Trojans — not for the first time — moving over from the 5-B.

Orville Baumgartner, 92

Orville Baumgartner

Tony Ray Smith, 61

Tony Ray Smith

Whitefish’s Swift Creek Cafe looks to push beyond familiar diner food

In 2018, Christian Moreno bought the already-established Swift Creek Cafe in downtown Whitefish with his father, Guillermo Moreno.

Crews welcome rain as they battle fires across the region

Monday’s wet, cool weather allowed crews to close in on the wildfire, which is burning in heavy timber and difficult terrain on the Flathead and Kootenai national forests.

Kalispell man accused of shooting teen pleads not guilty

Ross Barker, 70, faces a single count of assault with a weapon following the alleged July 28 shooting at Moose Crossing in Marion.

C-Falls motorist given 10 years in state prison with five suspended

Judge Dan Wilson sentenced Kenneth Malcolm Stevenson, 35, to 10 years in Montana State Prison with five years suspended in Flathead County District Court on Aug. 17.

Letters to the editor Aug. 22

Letters to the editor Aug. 22

Matthew Quist, 27

Matthew Quist

Game animal numbers a concern for Northwest Montana hunters, survey shows

Hunters in Northwest Montana, while mainly satisfied with harvest opportunities for deer and elk, are concerned about game animal populations, according to a survey launched by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks in late 2022.

Climate claims easy to defeat on science alone

On Aug. 14, Montana Republicans lost the Held v Montana (HvM) climate lawsuit, as I predicted in June 2022 based upon how AG Knudsen was failing to prepare to defeat HvM.

Legals for August, 22 2023

O’Connell shows out for Seahawks Saturday

A handful of Griz and Cats are competing for NFL jobs this season, and no one had bigger stats this week than Glacier High product Patrick O’Connell.

Law roundup: Carny allegedly threatens to stab youth’s hand

A youth reportedly trying to buy fair tickets, went to pass the money under the booth window to a carny with missing front teeth, when the man, who was talking to other people, said he would stab his hand and shoot his leg if he reached into the booth.

Thompson scores Sunday, Griz start fast at NDSU

The junior out of Flathead High, with assists from Schorr and Molly Quarry, celebrated her 21st birthday by netting her sixth career goal 100 seconds into the match.

Range Riders split doubleheader with Voyagers

The Riders carried their momentum over from their final at bats of game one into game two by putting up five runs in the top of the first. That early lead would hold as Glacier stayed hot on their way to an 11-4 victory in seven innings to split the twinbill.

Lisa Ann Sterzl, 63

Lisa Ann Sterzl

Class A golf: Pirates looking for more plunder

The Polson Pirates, to no one’s surprise, are still loaded. And watch out for the Columbia Falls boys.

Montana asks judge to allow TikTok ban to take effect while legal challenge moves through courts

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana is asking a federal judge to allow its law banning new downloads of the video-sharing app TikTok to take effect in January while a challenge filed by the company and five content creators is decided by the courts.

Biden arrives in Maui to comfort wildfire survivors and emergency workers

KAHULUI, Hawaii, (AP) — President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden arrived in Maui on Monday to comfort survivors of the devastating wildfires that ripped through the western part of the Hawaiian island, as his administration responds to the devastation whose full scope is still unknown.

Crews battle wildfires as rainy weather descends on region

With the River Road East Fire outside of Paradise growing to more than 16,000 acres over the weekend, officials implemented a temporary flight restriction in the skies above the blaze on Monday.

Kalispell attorney Garry Seaman pleads guilty to two counts of deliberate homicide

A Kalispell attorney pleaded guilty Monday to two felony charges of deliberate homicide and attempted homicide in relation to the shotgun shootings of two people, one fatal, at a campground near Libby Dam last year.

Results from the 2023 Northwest Montana Fair

Results from the 2023 Northwest Montana Fair

Letters to the editor Aug. 21

Letters to the editor Aug. 21

Whitefish's final budget includes tax decrease

Whitefish property owners should see a decrease in their city tax bill as a result of a large increase in taxable value.

Kalispell City Council poised to vote on $141M budget

Kalispell City Council is expected to vote Monday on the municipality’s final roughly $141 million fiscal year 2024 budget.

Entrepreneur coaches others looking to grow business ideas

Aside from business coaching, Scot Chisholm owns Haskill Creek Farms, a holistic health store located in Whitefish.

Benefits of using social media for recruitment advertising

Social media can be a great place to post job opportunities. Recruiters can create engaging posts with photos or videos to highlight career opportunities and showcase specific job responsibilities. Social media offers enhanced networking opportunities, the ability to host virtual hiring events and methods to maintain a desired organizational brand and extend a business’s reach.

Law roundup: Individual wants fairgoers to hear them roar

An individual wearing a lion head and roaring at the fair was reportedly annoying enough to someone, who hadn’t paid admission to see a circus, to make a walk-up complaint to the Kalispell

Legals for August, 21 2023

Federal judge halts Black Ram logging project in Kootenai National Forest

A federal judge has halted an expansive logging project in the Kootenai National Forest, often referred to as the “Black Ram Project,” after finding that the U.S. Forest Service made critical errors in evaluating the project, especially its impact on grizzly bears.

River Road East Fire near Paradise grows to 13K acres

The River Road East Fire outside Paradise grew to roughly 13,414 acres on Saturday as smoky conditions hampered the use of aircraft to fight the blaze.

Whitefish School District budget shows slight increase

After brief discussion, the Whitefish School Board approved the final budget for the upcoming school year at its regular meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 8.

The last days of a Columbia Falls crypto mine

When Danny McCargar went to work at a windowless, nondescript building just south of Columbia Falls off of Montana 206 last December, he found the lights off and power disconnected.

New Zip Trip gas station set to open next year

The new convenience store will be over a thousand square feet larger than its predecessor, and will also have larger bathrooms and additional coolers, according to Steve Haase, the regional gas station brand’s general manager.

Maxine Nelson Conway, 90

Maxine Nelson Conway

Rosendale is the best candidate to beat Tester

U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale is the kind of proven conservative Montana needs in the race for the U.S. Senate against Sen. Jon Tester.

Hunter Berry, 28

Hunter Berry

Blooming for a blue ribbon — dahlia lovers compete at the fair

The floriculture building at the Flathead County Fairgrounds was decorated with a multitude of dahlia and gladiolus flowers on Friday morning as exhibitors awaited for their entries to be judged.

Homeless are taking advantage of Flathead Valley's generosity

Another individual who I assume was homeless lost his life in Kalispell early last Sunday morning.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead businesses

The big lie and other myths about charter schools

The education establishment’s unfounded claims aimed at dissuading families and communities from establishing choice schools can finally be exposed as outright lies.

Flathead Bread focuses on home-baked artisan loaves

Flathead Bread is committed to baking healthy and organic bread and uses local ingredients whenever possible.

Hard work pays off for 4-Hers

The Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo always provides many memorable moments.

Letters to the editor Aug. 20

Letters to the editor Aug. 20

Carlene Widdowson, 94

Carlene Widdowson

Carol Trimble

Carol Trimble

Commissioner sees few ways to help homeless people

While decrying violence among the community’s homeless population in the wake of a deadly fight in Kalispell earlier this month, Flathead County Commissioner Brad Abell said Friday that there was little local policymakers could — or would — do for residents who declined to improve their lives.

FEC Roundup for Safety awards nonprofit grants

Flathead Electric Cooperative’s Roundup for Safety board of directors on Aug. 10 awarded $33,986 in support of community safety projects proposed by nonprofit organizations.

Fredrick L. Baker II, 79

Fredrick L. Baker II

UK inflation falls to 17-month low of 6.8% but unlikely to derail another interest rate rise

The Office for National Statistics said the annual rate of inflation, as measured by the consumer price index, was 6.8% in July, its lowest level since February 2022, the month Russia invaded Ukraine and sent energy prices surging.

Syrian president doubles public sector wages as national currency spirals downwards

President Bashar Assad issued the two decrees just before midnight Tuesday as the Syrian pound's value against the U.S. dollar declined to a new all-time low, down from 7,000 at the beginning of 2023 to 15,000 pounds to the greenback.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Law roundup: Officers receive garden-variety complaints

Extra patrol from the Kalispell Police Department was requested in a neighborhood where someone was allegedly cutting flowers out of gardens and stealing flowerpots and shrubs. It was not clear from the report as to whether or not the culprit was obtaining a sacrifice for the Knights Who Say

Hedge wins State Mid-Am; Polson’s Thomas 5th

Jake Hedge of Billings grew up playing Yellowstone Country Club, and on Saturday he won the Montana State Mid-Am golf championship by four strokes on his home course.

Allen Darling, 94

Allen Darling, 94

PHOTOS: 2023 Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo

Scenes from the 2023 Northwest Montana Fair

China's government tries to defuse economic fears after real estate developer's debt struggle

There is no indication Country Garden's problems might spread beyond China, which seals off its financial system from global capital flows, economists say.

Mack Stuart Johnsen, 75

Mack Stuart Johnsen, 75

Montana delegation pushes to keep AM radio in vehicles

The act would direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to issue a rule that requires automobile manufacturers to continue to include AM broadcast radio in their vehicles without additional work or payment.

Company that leaked radioactive material will build barrier to keep it away from Mississippi River

Xcel Energy said construction will last several weeks and should begin between Friday and Monday, according to a statement posted on the city of Monticello's website Thursday.

Biden marks 1-year anniversary of climate, health law, says 'we're investing in all of America'

His remarks, delivered on the anniversary of the so-called Inflation Reduction Act, came as the White House ramped up efforts to illustrate the real-world impact of Biden's economic plans.

Matthew Thomas Quist, 27

Matthew Thomas Quist, 27

Legals for August, 20 2023

Thomas Vaughn Caughlan, 71

Thomas Vaughn Caughlan

Report says Montana should adopt better wildland zoning for local government to curb fires

As wildfires dot the Western landscape, and a popular, historic Hawai’ian town is overrun by flames, a recent report about wildfires and zoning may become even more critical.

Mandatory evacuation ordered near Olney; fire outside of Paradise expands to nearly 12K acres

A wildfire west of Olney expanded its footprint Friday as authorities warned nearby residents to leave the area as critical weather conditions threatened to further fan the flames.

Benefits of using social media for recruitment advertising

Social media can be a great place to post job opportunities. Recruiters can create engaging posts with photos or videos to highlight career opportunities and showcase specific job responsibilities.Social media offers enhanced networking opportunities, the ability to host virtual hiring events and methods to maintain a desired organizational brand and extend a business’s reach.

Range Riders pummel Chukars Thursday, 20-4

IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Christian Kirtley, Jackson Raper and Mason Dinesen all drove in four runs Thursday, and the Glacier Range Riders again pummeled Idaho Falls in Pioneer League baseball, 20-5.

Kalispell schools to put safety and tech levies before voters

Roughly 45,000 ballots will be mailed out to voters Sept. 18 and are due Oct. 3, Election Day.

FVCC fall semester begins Aug. 28

Flathead Valley Community College’s Fall semester officially kicks off Monday, Aug. 28 with opportunities for students of all ages.

Results from the Northwest Montana Fair

The 2023 Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo features thousands of exhibits on display at the Flathead County Fairgrounds through Sunday, Aug. 20.

Law Roundup: A case of mysterious gummy worms

The mysterious appearance of several gummy worms in her vehicle prompted a woman to call the Columbia Falls Police Department, concerned about a possible stalker.

Miniature horses teach kids big lessons

It’s an odd but adorable pairing, and Whrett and Sally were crowd favorites at this year’s competition.

Warren Bryant Plympton III, 79

Warren Bryant Plympton III

Lakeside man sentenced on multiple cases spanning several years

James Scott Mende, 37, struck a plea deal with prosecutors wrapping three cases together just weeks after authorities arrested him in early March for allegedly drunkenly trying to force his way into a closed saloon in Lakeside.

Glacier National Park officials seek public comments on access, ticketed entry system

Glacier National Park officials are asking for public comments on its pilot vehicle reservation system amid renewed scrutiny of the program in recent months.

Legals for August, 18 2023

Griz finding a punter (again)

In July, Montana Grizzlies coach Bobby Hauck said he had a couple punters transferring in, though because fall camp was a few weeks away — and they were still recruitable — he didn’t name names.

Simulation in Motion Montana and Vitalogy EMS provide training in Kalispell

An emergency medical training provided by Simulation in Motion Montana in partnership with Vitalogy EMS took place last week in Kalispell.

Range Riders bang out 19 hits, rout Chukars

Gabe Howell and Matt Clayton homered, and the Glacier Range Riders rallied from an early 5-1 deficit to rout Idaho Falls 15-6 Wednesday in Pioneer League baseball.

Ryggs Johnston falls in US Amateur match play

CHERRY HILLS VILLAGE, Colo. — Ryggs Johnston, the Libby product and Arizona State golfer, lost his Round of 32 match at the US Amateur Championship Wednesday, 1-up.

Pre-evacuation warning issued for homes near Olney, Stryker

Residences near the East Fork Fire south of Stryker were placed under a pre-evacuation warning Thursday evening as winds whipped up fire activity.

Miles City Police investigating CDs distributed with Neo-Nazi propaganda

The Miles City Police Department confirmed it is investigating CDs with neo-Nazi propaganda that were sent to residents, weeks after investigating a vandalized Pride flag at a church in the community.

Victim in deadly fight near Parkline Trail identified

Authorities on Thursday identified the man killed following an alleged early morning fight over the weekend as 32-year-old Brian Radabah of Kalispell.

Hungry Horse Reservoir wildfires bring unhealthy air, falling ash

Two wildfires along Hungry Horse Reservoir continued to stir up smoky conditions on Thursday, contributing to poor air quality for most of the Flathead Valley.

Young handlers steer toward success in beef cattle judging at fair

What makes a good beef cow? According to Beef Barn Superintendent Kaitlyn Bennett, judges are looking for “a nice large frame steer who's going to have a good yield and some good quality market meat.”

Man arrested in Kalispell standoff earns three-year sentence

Jason Lewis Junkin pleaded guilty to a single count of felony criminal endangerment in Flathead County District Court in January after striking a deal with prosecutors.

Fiya Grill wins first place in Best Food at the fair

For the second year in a row, Fiya Grill has won first place in the Best Food at the Fair competition at the Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo.

Defensive end completes a July Hail Mary

Every player that signs with the Montana Grizzlies football program wants to get on the gridiron sooner rather than later, and Glacier High’s Hank Nuce made sure it was sooner.

Attorney General suggests Planned Parenthood of Montana abets human trafficking

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen has accused one of the state’s most prominent abortion providers of falsifying records and “flagrantly” violating state law by withholding required reports about sexual assault against minors and statutory rape, suggesting that similar alleged inaction by the organization “could be happening with human trafficking victims.”

Legals for August, 17 2023

Law roundup: People camping in vehicles allowed on empty lot

Someone complained about a parked van that hadn’t moved from its location in an empty lot since the end of May and thought someone was living in it when they saw a cooler and cooking station set up next to it. The van turned out to be parked on private property

Northern Manitoba fishing paradise revisited

Last month my wife, son Erik and myself revisited one of my favorite fishing holes in North America.

Ryggs Johnston in US Amateur Round of 32

PARKER, Colo. — Libby product Ryggs Johnston, a super senior at Arizona State, won his match Wednesday and is through to the Round of 32 at the 123rd US Amateur golf championship.

C-Falls’ Schweikert commits to Grizzlies

Columbia Falls football player Cody Schweikert picked his next team week, announcing on Monday that he has committed to play for the University of Montana.

Whitefish Theatre Company celebrates 45 years of community theater

A diverse lineup of 14 inspiring and thought-provoking plays, musical performances and more make up the 2023-24 season lineup for Whitefish Theatre Company.

Movie Night at the Museum takes the ‘Road to Morroco’

Take a trip to North Africa with Bing Crosby, Bob Hope and Dorothy Lamour with Movie Night at the Museum’s screen of “Road to Morocco” Aug. 29.

Auditions held for ‘Lost in Yonkers’

Auditions for “Lost In Yonkers” will take place on Aug. 20 and 21 at 7 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

FVCC’s fall Festival of Flavors raises scholarship funds

Festival of Flavors is entering its 16th season and is the college’s largest fundraiser for scholarships each year.

Flathead County Planning Board tables decision on proposed Bigfork development

Three hours of public comment, discussion and debate were not enough for the Flathead County Planning Board to reach a decision on whether or not to recommend the approval of the planned North Shore Woods housing development as they met in Kalispell last week.

Suspect in deadly Parkline Trail fight released from jail

The man arrested following an alleged fight in Kalispell over the weekend that left another person dead was freed from the Flathead County Detention Center on Tuesday.

Doris Point Fire expands to 763 acres

Air quality in the Flathead Valley deteriorated Wednesday as area wildfires kicked up new smoke plumes amid a record-setting heat wave.

Chukars' 4-run eighth beats Range Riders

IDAHO FALLS — Brandon Bohning hit a two-run home run and a three-run triple for Idaho Falls Tuesday, in the Chukars’ 10-8 Pioneer League baseball win over the Glacier Range Riders.

Whitefish kicks off growth policy update process

The city of Whitefish will be holding a public meeting to kick off its new Vision Whitefish 2045 Growth Policy update on Thursday, Aug. 24.

Heat wave stirs up Doris Point Fire

A wildfire burning on the Swan Range blew up Tuesday afternoon, sending off a massive plume of smoke that was visible across the Flathead Valley.

National Senior Citizen Day event planned for Aug. 21

My Glacier Village will celebrate National Senior Citizen Day on Monday, Aug. 21.

Former Montana revenue director says property tax system ‘rigged,’ ‘broken’

Homeowners and renters in Montana are about to experience the largest property tax increase in history — and it’s by design, said Dan Bucks, former head of the Montana Department of Revenue.

Woman charged with assault after attack in Woodland Park

Jennifer Michelle Pervais, 35, faces a single count of assault with a weapon in Flathead County District Court following her Aug. 13 arrest.

Legals for August, 16 2023

Man accused of aiming gun at motorists sees case dismissed

Prosecutors charged Herbert Hale Brown, 64, with two counts of felony assault with a weapon following the Nov. 25 incident.

Kalispell City Council reviews downtown banner policy proposal

Kalispell City Council heard the details of a proposed new downtown banner policy at its Monday work session.

Man charged with robbery following fight at gas station

Mark Sheldon Allen is being held in the county jail with bail set at $50,000 following his arrest.

Dorothy and Herbert "Smitty" Smith

Dorothy and Herbert "Smitty" Smith

Bonnie Boon, 63

Bonnie Boon

Law Roundup: Yelling match actually just a pair of loud talkers

A caller told the Columbia Falls Police Department that he was angry that a dog bit him and asked about filing a discrimination lawsuit against his neighbor for slamming doors and cabinets.

Forgotten artist and explorer brought to life in historic presentation

Fort Benton author Ken Robison, who specializes in neglected Montana history, is making the presentation.

National Park Services approves Gunsight Lake native trout preservation project

Glacier National Park officials are moving forward with plans to introduce cutthroat and bull trout into Gunsight Lake.

Flathead picks Williams as next softball coach

Flathead High has selected its new softball coach, and pending school board approval Brittany Williams will guide the Bravettes in 2024.

Yvonne Marie Messier Buck Kleinhans, 81

Yvonne Marie Messier Buck Kleinhans, 81

Olney-Bissell School kicks off school year

The K-8 school is projected to start the 2023-24 school year with 110 students.

Wolfpack boy golfers win opening meet big

Flathead, Glacier have high hopes for season on the links

Coming off a second-place finish at last year’s State AA tournament, the Glacier Wolfpack boys golf team had high expectations for 2023. On Monday and Tuesday the Wolfpack made a statement, winning the opening Great Falls Invitational by 22 strokes.

In all sheeps and sizes — 4-H and FFA members compete in sheep show at the fair

The Brists, which includes father Rob, mother Tess and children Madison, Emma, Naoli and Garrett, were showing sheep, goats and cows during the Northwest Montana Fair this week.

Fire destroys Leisure Island home

Five local fire departments and the Montana Department of Natural Resources responded to a fire that destroyed a house on Leisure Island south of Kalispell on Sunday night.

Canadian military mobilizes to help fight wildfires in Northwest Territories

YELLOWKNIFE, Northwest Territories (AP) — Members of the Canadian Armed Forces were set to mobilize in the Northwest Territories on Tuesday, as wildfires threatened communities including the territorial capital, and hundreds of people were airlifted to safety.

Fire halts operation at Hecla mine in Mullan

MULLAN — Authorities with the Hecla Mining Company are investigating an underground fire that broke out sometime Sunday at the Lucky Friday mine.

Hawaii works to identify 99 confirmed dead after Maui wildfires as teams intensify search

LAHAINA, Hawaii (AP) — Hawaii officials worked painstakingly to identify the 99 people confirmed killed in wildfires that ravaged Maui and expected to release the first names Tuesday, even as teams intensified the search for more dead in neighborhoods reduced to ash.

Legals for August, 15 2023

Montana property tax rebate claims open Aug. 15

Beginning Tuesday, Aug. 15, eligible Montana homeowners may apply to claim their property tax rebates. Claims must be filed by Oct. 1, 2023.

Suspect in high-speed chase sentenced to prison

Judge Robert Allison handed the sentence down to Sean James Edwards in Flathead County District Court on June 8.

Competitors and their pigs hog spotlight in the show ring at the Northwest Montana Fair

Inside the Trade Center, excited children and eager parents awaited the chance to show the pigs they had raised to a judge.

Assault charge dropped against man investigated in connection with shooting

Judge Amy Eddy dismissed the assault with a weapon case against Jacob Norris without prejudice at the request of prosecutors in late April.

No one is locked out of Glacier Park

I volunteer in Glacier National Park by answering the phone in Glacier National Park headquarters and working in the “corral” two days a week alongside more than 30 other volunteers and summer park employees.

Law roundup: These boots were made for walking right out the door

A woman wearing a brown-gray jacket and brown boots was reportedly walking through a store knocking things off shelves and shoving things into her bag before heading to the door where a truck was waiting.

Hear the Sound of Impact! at the Wachholz

Listen to the Sound of Impact!, a concert featuring local master violinist Wai Mizutani accompanied by eight musicians from across the Northwest, Aug. 25.

Federal regulators flag ‘concerns’ as Montana cuts Medicaid rolls

Federal regulators are urging Montana health officials to fix shortcomings in the state’s Medicaid redetermination process, expressing “concerns” that the state may be disenrolling people who are eligible for the public health insurance and creating barriers for others through long wait times at call centers and during the application process.

Case dropped against man accused of threatening police

Prosecutors charged Douglas Seward Russell, 72, who does not have an address listed, with felony intimidation following his June 30, 2022 arrest.

Letters to the editor Aug. 15

Letters to the editor Aug. 15

Trump, 18 allies indicted in Georgia over 2020 election meddling

Donald Trump and 18 allies were indicted in Georgia on Monday, accused of scheming to illegally overturn his 2020 election loss in the state.

1 dead, suspect jailed after alleged fight near Kalispell's Parkline Trail

One man is dead and another behind bars after an early morning fight Sunday in Kalispell, officials say.

Judge sides with young activists in first-of-its-kind climate change trial in Montana

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A Montana judge on Monday sided with young environmental activists who said state agencies were violating their constitutional right to a clean and healthful environment by permitting fossil fuel development without considering its effect on the climate.

Thomas Henry Sladek, 65

Thomas Henry Sladek, 65, of McGregor, Minnesota, formerly of Kalispell, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2023, at his home on his beloved Lake Minnewawa.

Kalispell City Council to run downtown banner policy up the flagpole

Kalispell City Council on Monday will consider a new downtown banner policy.

Law roundup: Sisters throw punches for front seat

Two sisters allegedly got into a punching match after arguing over who would sit in the front seat of a car in a grocery store parking lot.

Volunteer dedicates nearly 20 years of service to projects in Glacier National Park

As Cheryl Klein slept under the stars in Glacier that night, she did not know that it was the start to a new chapter of her life with the volunteer associates.

Legals for August, 14 2023

Range Riders drop 2 of 3 in Boise

BOISE, Idaho — A flurry of extra-base hits in a six-run fifth inning carried Boise past the Glacier Range Riders Sunday 10-5 and gave the Hawks the edge in this three-game Pioneer League series.

Seek the truth about grizzly bear management

Delisting grizzly bears is becoming a hot topic both in our state and nationwide.

Professional fighters come to Kalispell to highlight brain injury awareness

Montana is in the top three states across the nation for traumatic brain injury related deaths, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and those that survive their injuries often find themselves entering into a world that is completely different to the one they inhabited before.

Flying high — Disc golf remains a popular sport in the valley

Disc golf is played using the basic principles of traditional golf with some exceptions. The goal is to throw discs into baskets in as few tosses as possible.

Mary 'Ann' Mateka, 97

Mary "Ann" Mateka

Flathead Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Kalispell misses mark on impact fees

Three years ago, the Kalispell City Council made a bet on the law of supply and demand.

Outdated transmission system holds back Montana's clean energy production

Dr. Pat Barkey, director of the University of Montana’s Bureau for Business Economic Research, points out that Montana's "increasing population has driven higher electricity demand, but little new generation and transmission capacity has been built over the last decade." And, that "Montana risks becoming a net importer of electricity."

Legislature invested in Montana’s future

I’ve been hearing some questions from Montanans who are grateful for the over $1 billion in one-time and ongoing tax relief passed by legislative Republicans, but also say they want to see the state make smart investments for the long term.

Everyone's got a story to share

Emcee Barbara Schiffman stepped to the fore in the Arts & Technology Building at Flathead Valley Community College one evening last spring to announce the setup for that night’s “story concert.”

New owners freshen up Whitefish Westside Market

After Frank Barnes, the market’s previous owner retired, the baton was passed, leading to the addition of over 400 new products, outdoor seating, and two full-time cooks to the business now known as the Whitefish Westside Market.

Big fashion is getting bigger. Parent of Coach will buy Versace owner Capri in $8.5 billion deal

Big fashion has been getting even bigger through a spate of acquisitions as U.S. players seek more sway in Europe.

Louis 'Louie' A. Eskestrand, 71

Louis "Louie" A. Eskestrand

Glacier processing co-op offers incentive to join

A cooperative focused on expanding meat processing capacity in the Flathead Valley is currently offering an incentive to producers who join by Sept. 30, with an informational membership meeting and barbecue planned for September 14 in Kalispell.

Letters to the editor Aug. 13

Letters to the editor Aug. 13

Law roundup: Man takes the shortcut to parking space

A man took a shortcut through the middle of an apartment complex, driving his Ford F150 over grass and two septic tanks, to get to a parking spot.

Legals for August, 13 2023

While rare, otter attack not out of character, experts say

The three women who were recently attacked by an otter while floating on the Jefferson River near Three Forks stood about a near-equal chance of being charged by an angry unicorn.

From eggs to electronics to used cars, consumer inflation eased its grip on US households in July

The inflation data the government reported Thursday showed that overall consumer prices rose 3.2% from a year earlier.

British economy unexpectedly grows by 0.2% in second quarter largely because of June weather boost

The Office for National Statistics said the economy expanded by 0.2% in the April to June period, compared with the previous three-month period. That was higher than the 0.1% recorded in the first quarter and ahead of economists' expectations for no change.

Suspect in custody after alleged car theft at airport

A man is in custody after he reportedly stole a car from the Glacier International Parking lot Saturday afternoon according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

4-H Dog Show at the Northwest Montana Fair

Scenes from the Northwest Montana Fair 4-H Dog Show at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Friday, Aug. 11, 2023.

Glacier National Park proposes campground fee rate changes

Officials at Glacier National Park are proposing fee rate changes to most front country campgrounds in 2024 and Apgar group sites in 2025.

Diminished Flathead Lake leaves some residents crying mismanagement

RONAN — The amount of water flowing into Flathead Lake peaked both lower and earlier than normal this year, frustrating those accustomed to the lake’s reliably clean, clear water for recreation, irrigation and power generation through the summer.

In the twilight of the muscle car era, demand for the new 486-horsepower V-8 Ford Mustang is roaring

Demand for roaring engines remains strong in an era when Detroit automakers are starting to phase out the rumbling gas burners and transition to electric vehicles in order to meet strict government emissions and fuel economy requirements.

Board advises people to stop eating whitefish caught downstream of train derailment

Montana’s Fish Consumption Advisory Board issued an initial advisory Friday that people should stop consuming mountain whitefish caught between the site of a train derailment and chemical spill last month and Laurel after chemicals were found in several of the fish that were tested.

State defendants in Montana drag ban lawsuit request jury trial

Attorneys for Attorney General Austin Knudsen and Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen are requesting a jury trial in the legal case challenging the constitutionality of the drag ban in Montana.

Attorney General Garland appoints a special counsel in the Hunter Biden probe

WASHINGTON (AP) — Attorney General Merrick Garland announced Friday he is appointing a special counsel in the Hunter Biden probe, deepening the investigation of the president's son ahead of the 2024 election.

At least 55 people died on Maui. Residents had little warning before wildfires overtook a town

LAHAINA, Hawaii (AP) — Hawaii emergency management records show no indication that warning sirens sounded before people ran for their lives from wildfires on Maui that killed at least 55 people and wiped out a historic town. Instead, officials sent alerts to mobile phones, televisions and radio stations — but widespread power and cellular outages may have limited their reach.

Judge warns of restraints to what evidence Trump can talk about, agrees to limited protective order

WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal judge overseeing the election conspiracy case against Donald Trump warned on Friday that there are limits on what the former president can publicly say about the investigation as he campaigns for a second term in the White House.

Donations pour in for pair injured in food truck explosion

Online fundraising efforts have so far raised over $30,000 each for boutique ranch Clydesdale Outpost co-owner Matt Arnold-Ladensack and employee Jordan Glosser, who each suffered extensive third degree burns after the food truck they were working in exploded Aug. 1.

Law Roundup: Trespassing cows unwelcome

Four cows wandered onto a property where they weren’t welcome and the owner called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to ask what to do about the trespassing bovines.

Historic clock donated to Columbia Falls Museum

Karl Sorenson recently donated a vintage clock from the old Gaylord Hotel, which burned down in the mid-1920s. The hotel was a landmark on Nucleus Avenue prior to the fire.

Lillian Wallace, 99

Lillian Wallace, 99

Fairgrounds offers sanctuary to fire evacuees

When mandatory evacuations for Walking Horse Lane and Early Dawn Road and adjacent areas near Big Arm were announced last Thursday afternoon by the Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Vicki Holmberg, Polson Fairgrounds caretaker, was immediately on the phone with people seeking shelter for their animals and places to park their campers and RVs. When she wasn’t on the phone, she was showing people where to put their animals.

National chain Tractor Supply opening Kalispell location

The company, which calls itself the largest lifestyle retailer in the U.S. and was founded in 1938, sells products for home improvement, agriculture, lawn and garden, livestock, equine and pet care.

William Aloyce Stacy, 82

William Aloyce Stacy, 82

Jonathan Oostra, 34

Jonathan Oostra

Legals for August, 11 2023

Glacier receives $300,000 for habitat restoration and addressing climate change impacts

A roughly $300,000 infusion of federal funds from the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will support Glacier National Park’s efforts in restoring natural habitats and addressing the effects of climate change, officials said this week.

Railroad memorial statue finds new home at train depot

The life-size bronze statue depicts a railroad engineer, hands on knees with a slight bend in his back, listening to a young boy before him who is holding a model train engine in his hands.

'Significant' rainfall dampens wildfire activity

Wetting rains Wednesday night put a damper on wildfires burning across Northwest Montana, however fire forecasters said activity could pick up this weekend as conditions dry out.

Range Riders take 2 of 3 from Hawks

Newcomer Jake McKenzie had two hits and scored twice, and the Glacier Range Riders’ bullpen was its usual lock-down self in a 9-3 Pioneer League win over the Boise Hawks Wednesday.

More Patriot Front members on trial in Coeur d'Alene

COEUR d’ALENE — Local police officers took the stand Wednesday and described their roles in the arrest of 31 Patriot Front members in June 2022.

Biden will ask Congress for $13B to support Ukraine and $12B for disaster fund, an AP source says

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday will ask Congress to provide more than $13 billion in emergency aid to Ukraine, another massive infusion of cash as the Russian invasion wears on and Ukraine pushes a counteroffensive against the Kremlin's deeply entrenched forces, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press.

Maui surveys the burned wreckage caused by the deadliest US wildfire in years

WAILUKU, Hawaii (AP) — The search of the wildfire wreckage on the Hawaiian island of Maui on Thursday revealed a wasteland of burned out homes and obliterated communities as firefighters battled the stubborn blaze that has already claimed 36 lives, making it the deadliest in the U.S. in recent years.

A title long coming; a little boost at end

You wonder how history might differ if Cary Finberg had been a teacher, which of course was the original plan.

Kalispell felon sentenced in federal court for possessing shotguns

Judge Donald W. Molloy also sentenced Matthew Ryan Cubberly, 36, to three years of supervised release following his imprisonment.

Deadpan-style comedian Rich Hall takes stage in Polebridge

Rich Hall is an award-winning comedian, writer, documentary maker, and musician, first coming to prominence as a sketch comedian in the late 1980s. He wrote and performed for a range of networks in series such as “Fridays,” “Not Necessarily the News,” “Otis Lee Crenshaw” and “Saturday Night Live.”

Glacier Park’s artist-in-residence programs opens for applications

The artist-in-residence program offers artists focused time to creatively explore the park’s numerous and varied natural and cultural resources and to share their work through educational programs.

Flathead Valley man receives deferred sentence for alleged drunken gunplay

Judge Dan Wilson handed down the deferred sentence to George Paul Herne, 20, on July 27.

Music school’s Montana Music Event postponed due to wildfires

Due to wildfires near the venue and smoke in the air, North Valley Music School has postponed the Montana Music Event that had been scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 13.

Hockaday holds pop up exhibit and art sale

Over 30 framed works, plus over 100 unframed works on paperwill be available to purchase at affordable prices during the Give Back Benefit Sale.

Night moves: Citizen scientists help document Glacier's pollinators

A waxing gibbous peeked above the treeline as nightfall darkened Glacier National Park on Saturday, July 29. Along Quarter Circle Bridge Road, mercury vapor lights stood like green torches as visitors from across the country, and nocturnal insects attracted to the glow, gathered around.

Law Roundup: Woman sporting Montana mudflap drives off

A woman described as having a mohawk and mullet driving a white car approached a group of guys at a park making fun of them before getting into her car and driving off, a caller reported to the Columbia Falls Police Department.

Airport officials pan proposal to change employee screening policy

Local airport officials are hoping that the U.S. Senate will vote to stop new Transportation Security Administration rules that would require airports to perform additional screening on employees.

Polson officials annex property for casino project

A near unanimous decision on Aug. 7 by the Polson City Commission confirmed the annexation of a 79-acre piece of land owned by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

C-Falls settles lawsuit with Kreck Riverside Park neighbors

The Columbia Falls City Council approved a settlement with Mark and Inge Cahill over Kreck Riverside Park on Monday night.

Legals for August, 10 2023

Live spoken word event features storytellers

Story coaches and writing instructors Glenn and Barbara Schiffman are launching a new series of spoken word events in Flathead Valley beginning this month.

Hockaday Museum hosts annual Plein Air Glacier Paint Out

The 16th annual event offers the change to observe artists while they work, an exhibition and sale.

Surveillance footage leads to dismissal of assault case

Prosecutors brought Brett Wayne Pointer, 37, up on a count of assault with a weapon following an alleged fight involving a knife in a Kalispell area RV park in February.

Rent caps needed to control housing greed

The housing shortage in the Flathead Valley has reached a crisis level. New housing projects are being built all over the valley, but they cannot keep up with all of the people moving here from other states. Most of these houses and apartments are rented out before they are even done being built.

Denis E. Otten, 70

Denis E. Otten

Artists paint in downtown Kalispell

The challenge, running from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., is a unique event that aims to celebrate local and regional artists while promoting beautiful Montana landscapes.

Alaska’s predator-control program makes no sense

Grizzly bears in Alaska, called brown bears, that live around the town of Bethel, population 6,325, should have a good life as they don’t interact with many people.

Range Riders rally past Hawks

Jackson Raper and Kingston Liniak drove in two runs each, and the Glacier Range Riders brushed aside a early 3-0 deficit to beat the Boise Hawks 7-3 Tuesday in Pioneer League baseball.

Libby clinic files for bankruptcy following $6 million judgment over false asbestos claims

The Center for Asbestos Related Disease in Libby filed for bankruptcy in federal court Monday, just months after a jury ruled that it had submitted hundreds of false claims on behalf of patients.

People in Hawaii flee into ocean to escape wildfires that are burning a popular Maui tourist town

HONOLULU (AP) — Wind-whipped wildfires raced through parts of Hawaii on Wednesday, burning down businesses in a historic town on the island of Maui, injuring several people, forcing evacuations and leading some to flee to the relative safety of the ocean, where they were rescued by the Coast Guard.

Evacuation warning issued between Hungry Horse and West Glacier

Residents on the east side of U.S. 2 between Hungry Horse and West Glacier were placed under a pre-evacuation notice Wednesday morning due to the nearby Ridge Fire.

‘Conscience’ bills let medical providers opt out of providing a wide range of care

A new Montana law will provide sweeping legal protections to health care practitioners who refuse to prescribe marijuana or participate in procedures and treatments such as abortion, medically assisted death, gender-affirming care, or others that run afoul of their ethical, moral, or religious beliefs or principles.

Unique culinary experiences center of 406 BBQ’s menu

Stephen Kina started 406 BBQ in 2021 after being inspired by his father’s own career as a chef.

Whitefish man arrested after standoff given deferred sentence

Initially charged with one count of assault with a weapon, Quinn Garrett Lewis, 44, of Whitefish pleaded guilty to criminal endangerment in May. He struck a plea deal that same month.

Northwest Montana Fair opens next week

The 2023 Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo is scheduled for Aug. 16-20 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell and will feature a performance by country star Russell Dickerson, three nights of PRCA Rodeo action and a Big Air Bash.

Columbia Falls man accused of threatening son with gun

A 60-year-old Columbia Falls man faces a felony charge in Flathead County District Court after allegedly threatening his son with a gun over the weekend.

Kalispell City Council approves higher water rates

Residents will pay higher water fees starting in September after the Kalispell City Council approved a new water fee schedule at its meeting Monday.

Legals for August, 9 2023

State officials to host virtual and in person meetings on Montana 35 reconstruction project

Officials with the Montana Department of Transportation are planning on hosting two open houses to share design progress on an upcoming project to reconstruct Montana 35.

Eddy Lou Benson, 93

Eddy Lou Benson

Law roundup: Unresponsive man just taking a catnap

A caller expressed concern about a 26-year-old man who was described as appearing unresponsive in a Kalispell gazebo. He was just taking a nap, officers with the Kalispell Police Department later learned.

County planning board looks at 125-home subdivision for Bigfork

A proposal to create a subdivision with 125 single-family homes in Bigfork goes before the Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday.

Parent who allegedly threatened school employees given deferred sentence

Tifani Marie Curtin, 42, pleaded guilty by way of an Alford plea to felony criminal endangerment in June. She initially faced a felony intimidation charge, but struck a deal with prosecutors earlier this year.

Legals for August, 9 2023

Range Riders fall Monday to Hawks

Trevor Minder’s two-run double in the fifth inning broke open a close game, and two solo homers finished off Boise’s 7-1 Pioneer League win over the Glacier Range Riders Monday night.

Gazpacho refreshing in summer

Gazpacho is often called a liquid salad with good reason as this cold soup combines raw summer garden veggies along with cucumbers, onions, spices and fresh herbs.

Lincoln County puts local marijuana tax to voters

At the July 26 Lincoln County commissioner’s meeting, the vote on a resolution for a 3% tax on retail sales of both categories of marijuana was unanimous. Registered voters will decide the matter in a special election on Tuesday, Nov. 7.

Biden creates new national monument near Grand Canyon, citing tribal heritage, climate concerns

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz. (AP) — Declaring it good "not only for Arizona but for the planet," President Joe Biden on Tuesday signed a national monument designation for the greater Grand Canyon, turning the decades-long visions of Native American tribes and environmentalists into reality.

Hungry Horse Reservoir evacuated, closed to public

All roads, trails and recreation sites along Hungry Horse Reservoir were closed to public access Tuesday morning due to wildfires actively burning in the area.

Supreme Court reinstates regulation of ghost guns, firearms without serial numbers

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court is reinstating a regulation aimed at reining in the proliferation of ghost guns, firearms without serial numbers that have been turning up at crime scenes across the nation in increasing numbers.

Carcinogens found at Montana nuclear missile sites as reports of hundreds of cancers surface

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Air Force has detected unsafe levels of a likely carcinogen at underground launch control centers at a Montana nuclear missile base where a striking number of men and women have reported cancer diagnoses.

Montana State Hospital tallies high rates of falls, chemical restraints and staff vacancies

The Montana State Hospital in Warm Springs, the state’s only public adult psychiatric facility, is continuing to see high staff vacancies, budget deficits, and shortfalls in health and safety standards more than a year after losing federal accreditation following investigations into patient deaths and injuries.

Man injured by grizzly bear while working in Wyoming forest

LANDER, Wyo. (AP) — A man working in a remote Wyoming forest was injured in a surprise encounter with a grizzly bear and flown to a hospital for treatment, state officials said.

Legals for August, 8 2023

Boosting overnight staffing a priority for Kalispell Police chief following audit

Increasing overnight staffing levels as recommended in a recent audit of the Kalispell Police Department is a priority for new Chief Jordan Venezio.

One-time murder suspect accused of violating suspended sentence

Jason David Weldele, 45, is expected to return to Flathead County District Court on Thursday to answer to allegations he has repeatedly violated the conditions of his suspended 10-year sentence.

Upset man allegedly pulled knife on casino employees

Prosecutors brought Tyler Jay Walter, 38, on counts of assault with a weapon and tampering with evidence following his Aug. 5 arrest.

Law Roundup: Revving truck engine signals drug deal

Concerns were raised about a group of juveniles dealing drugs after they went into an apartment and later revved an engine of a black pickup truck when a caller contacted the Kalispell Police Department.

Evacuation order lifted for Niarada Fire as rain slows growth

Some residents under evacuation orders were allowed to return home Monday after fire crews made progress on containing the Niarada Fire west of Elmo thanks to below normal temperatures and some much-needed rainfall.

Motorcyclist from Kalispell killed in wreck near Belgrade

The man was riding a Yamaha motorcycle eastbound along Frontage Road in Gallatin County about 10:13 p.m., Aug. 6 when the truck pulled out in front of him from Thorpe Road while taking a right turn, according to a report issued by Montana Highway Patrol.

Always on the run and loving it

She admits she has always struggled with sitting still.

Births

Births

Letters to the editor Aug. 7

Letters to the editor Aug. 7

Kalispell City Council to vote on water rate hike

The Kalispell City Council will vote Monday on a proposed water rate increase.

Legals for August, 7 2023

Whitefish City Council considers putting resort tax change on ballot

Whitefish City Council on Monday will decide whether to place a measure before voters in the fall that would direct a portion of resort tax dollars toward community housing.

Law Roundup: Grocery shopping makes for thirsty work

Unable to wait until her grocery shopping trip was complete, a woman wearing green camo leggings was openly drinking alcohol, store management reported to Kalispell Police Department.

Glacier Institute nears fundraising goal to restore Big Creek facility

The Glacier Institute is $200,000 away from reaching its $1.7 million goal to restore the Big Creek Outdoor Education Center.

Cooler weather slows growth on Ridge Fire

Growth slowed on a wildfire near Martin City over the weekend with cooler and more humid weather moving into the region.

Mega Millions players spurned again as jackpot climbs to $1.55 billion

Another Mega Millions drawing, another night without a jackpot winner.

Northwest Montana farmers respond to extreme drought

Northwest Montana agricultural producers are adapting this summer as they deal with the most extreme drought that the region has experienced in more than 20 years.

Montana's soft stance on DUIs necessitates a cultural shift

Nearly half of all Montana traffic deaths in 2020 were DUI related.

Rhonda Lynn Brensinger, 60

Rhonda Lynn Brensinger

Viola Marie Sabol, 96

Viola Marie Sabol

Prehistoric goods feature of Kalispell Rock shop

Located at 103 East Cottonwood Drive, the Kalispell Rock shop is owned and operated by local fossil hunters Aamon and Chantel Jaeger, with the help of jewelry maker Haven McCartney.

Ann Dearman, 89

Ann Dearman

Panama Canal foresees its income falling after shipping limited due to a drought

The managers of the Panama Canal said they expect income from the waterway to drop after authorities were forced to limit the number of ships passing through each to 32 due to a lack of rainfall.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Wildcats Strike: Columbia Falls’ first boys basketball title 20 years ago didn’t come easy

It’s hard to believe now that Columbia Falls, despite graduating ample basketball talent through the years — Cary Finberg, Mike Caldwell and the late Craig Finberg quickly come to mind — had not won a boys basketball state championship before 2003.

Security company opens in Gateway Center

The security company, owned by Marquis Laude, handles the installation and maintenance of hundreds of security systems around the world, including locally in the Flathead Valley as well.

Legals for August, 6 2023

Law Roundup: Man screaming for a ride asked to move on

Waiting on a ride to Polson at a gas station, managers asked for the Kalispell Police Department to have the man moved along after he could be heard screaming from inside the establishment.

Henry & Judy Wilks 60th Anniversary

Henry & Judy Wilks 60th Anniversary

Letters to the editor Aug. 6

Letters to the editor Aug. 6

Montana Kayak Academy teaches art of riding the river

“The world would be a better place if everyone kayaked,” Dave Meyers says.

FWP deserves accolades for deer license reduction

Recently, Montana’s Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks recently announced they were reducing hunting licenses for mule deer in a large swath of Central and Eastern Montana.

Dave Konopatzke, 83

Dave Konopatzke

Republican supermajority responsible for property tax hikes

Too many vacation rentals. Banks buying houses. Committed and hardworking Department of Revenue staff.

Labor unions across Nigeria protest against soaring cost of living under new president

The unions, made up of government workers, said the economic incentives announced this week by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to ease hardship were not enough. They also accused him of failing to act quickly to cushion the effect of some of his policies, including the suspension of decadeslong, costly subsidies that have more than doubled the price of gas, causing a spike in prices for food and most other commodities.

Europe's economy grows a bit after months of stagnation. But rate hikes are weighing on businesses

The 20 countries that use the euro currency and their 346 million people saw 0.3% growth in the April-to-June period, compared with the first three months of the year, the EU statistics agency Eurostat reported Monday.

Global food prices rise after Russia ends grain deal and India restricts rice exports

The FAO Food Price Index, which tracks monthly changes in the international prices of commonly traded food commodities, increased 1.3% in July over June, driven by higher costs for rice and vegetable oil. It was the first uptick since April, when higher sugar prices bumped up the index slightly for the first time in a year.

Montana’s TikTok ban can save freedom from extinction

In March, I testified before Montana’s House Judiciary Committee about the threat posed by TikTok to Montanans.

Stock market today: Wall Street falls again to close out its first losing week in four

The S&P 500 sank 23.86, or 0.5%, to 4,478.03. It was the fourth straight drop for Wall Street's main measure of health after it set a 16-month high at the start of the week.

Fewer Americans got jobs in July than expected. But a steady market suggests US may avoid recession

U.S. employers added 187,000 jobs last month, fewer than expected. But the unemployment rate dipped to 3.5% in a sign that the job market remains resilient.

Terry Carlton Langston, 65

Terry Carlton Langston, 65

Bank provides financial literacy education

Students at 16 schools and the surrounding community have free access to Banzai, an award-winning online program and content library that allows users to practice real-world finance from the safety of their home or classroom using any internet-enabled device.

Carol Elizabeth (Fredenberg) Patterson, 95

Carol Elizabeth (Fredenberg) Patterson

Gertrude Combs, 98

Gertrude Combs

PHOTOS: Evergreen Show 'N Shine 2023

Scenes from the Evergreen Show 'N Shine car show at Conlin's Furniture in Evergreen on Saturday, Aug. 5.

Riders beat Billings Thursday, fall in Great Falls Friday

The Glacier Range Riders got a little magic back in the Magic City Thursday, before falling Friday at Great Falls as their second half of the Pioneer League season continues to challenge.

Glacier's Keim commits to Griz football

The Montana Grizzlies picked up another verbal commitment from a Glacier Wolfpack gridder Thursday, with Isaac Keim announcing that he’s headed to UM.

Polson to revisit annexation proposal spurred by casino project

The Polson City Commission on Monday will revisit a proposal for the municipality to annex nearly 80 acres of land belonging to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and located west of the Polson bridge.

Prosecutors in Lincoln County push for higher wages

The Lincoln County Attorney's Office is pushing for higher wages for its employees, citing the growth in cases and retention struggles.

Two injured after car goes off edge of Going-to-the-Sun Road

Two people suffered injuries after a car drove off the edge of the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park on Thursday.

Union ratifies new contract with Logan Health

Service Employees International Union 1199NW has ratified a new contract with Logan Health, which union representatives say raises wages by 20% over the next two years, including 11.5% upon ratification.

Man accused of starting Gravel Pit Fire charged with arson

A homeless man living out of a van is accused of starting the Gravel Pit Fire in the Fisher River Valley east of Libby on Aug. 1.

How to make your business stand out during the recruitment process

One of the most crucial ways to make your business stand out during recruitment is to create a concise job description that clearly communicates the required skills, job responsibilities and employee compensation and benefits.

Black bear shot and killed by Montana man in his living room after break-in

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A Montana couple got a late-night wakeup call from a barking dog alerting them that a black bear had broken into their living room before the man shot and killed the animal with a handgun.

Jacqueline Watson, 60

Jacqueline Watson

Law roundup: Local man learns not to throw bombs

Concerned about a man resting in a dumpster, a building’s operations manager phoned authorities. Officers awoke the sleeping man and moved him along.

Congressman deems federal government untrustworthy on eve of Trump arraignment

On the eve of former President Donald Trump’s arraignment in federal court on charges related to the attempted overturning of the 2020 election, U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke told attendees of a Whitefish forum that the government cannot be trusted.

Local child care gap worsened by low wages

Low wages deterring people from pursuing early childhood education careers represent an obstacle to bridging the local child care gap that is keeping parents out of the workforce, business advocates and child care providers say.

How to make your business stand out during the recruitment process

One of the most crucial ways to make your business stand out during recruitment is to create a concise job description that clearly communicates the required skills, job responsibilities and employee compensation and benefits.

Economist warns state must boost energy production

Montana risks becoming a net importer of electricity because growth in electricity generation and transmission infrastructure is failing to keep pace with increasing demand, according to Dr. Pat Barkey, director of the University of Montana’s Bureau for Business Economic Research.

FVCC Foundation Festival of Flavors event raises $45,000 for scholarships

The Summer Soiree on Swan River was held at The Nest on the Swan River in Bigfork.

Legals for August, 4 2023

Great Fish Community Challenge opens with launch party Aug. 10

This year’s Great Fish Community Challenge runs from Aug. 10 to Sept. 15 and will benefit 78 Flathead Valley nonprofit organizations.

Range Riders drop 2 of 3 to Ponies

BILLINGS — In a game with five lead changes and nine extra-base hits, a bases-loaded walk gave the Billings Mustangs the lead for good in their 10-8 win over the Glacier Range Riders Wednesday.

Otter attacks three women on Jefferson River

Three women were injured by an otter on Wednesday while floating on the Jefferson River near Three Forks, including one who was airlifted to the hospital for more serious injuries, a Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks spokesperson said in a news release.

Whitefish Lake water level nears historic low

People with large boats are advised to consider taking their vessels out of Whitefish Lake early this summer as the water level nears an all-time low.

Logan Health and Billings Clinic integration will be official on Sept. 1

Logan Health and Billings Clinic will come together as a new health care system Sept. 1 with Logan Health President and CEO Dr. Craig Lambrecht expected to serve as its chief executive officer.

Fire behavior could moderate with cool, wet week ahead

Northwest Montana’s wildfire activity is expected to moderate over the next seven days with wetting rain and below normal temperatures increasingly likely beginning Friday evening.

Exhibit features eclectic work of artist Dianne Hinkler

An opening reception for an art exhibit featuring the work of Kalispell self-taught artist, Dianne Hinkler, is planned on First Friday, Aug. 4.

Tester wary of defunding Glacier's entry system

Montana Sen. Jon Tester said last week that he didn’t think defunding Glacier National Park’s reservation system was a good idea.

Polson implements water restrictions

In response to prolonged drought, the City of Polson implemented odd/even water restrictions across the city Aug. 1.

Cawdrey Gallery presents the work of Montana artist Steve Seltzer in exclusive exhibit

An exclusive exhibit of Western artist W. Steve Seltzer will be shown during Whitefish Gallery Nights at Cawdrey Gallery from 5 to 8 p.m. today, Aug. 3.

Legals for August, 3 2023

Hockaday Museum secures grant for capital project

The Hockaday Museum of Art is moving forward with renovations to aging heating and cooling systems after receiving funding through the Montana Historic Preservation Grant program.

Maryland hospitality company buys Chico Hot Springs for $33 million

DiamondRock Hospitality Company announced Wednesday that it has purchased Chico Hot Springs Resort in the Paradise Valley for $33 million.

Digital music focus of camp

The four-day Music Tech summer camp will be taught by Ross Bridgeman.

Alleged drunk driver involved in fatal collision with pedestrian pleads not guilty

The motorist accused of striking and killing a 21-year-old from Columbia Falls while drunk in March faces a trio of misdemeanor charges related to the fatal collision.

Eureka Community Players dine in

The Eureka Community Players present “The Dining Room,” a play by A.R. Gurney, Aug. 4, during the Eureka Quilt Show weekend.

Awaiting the return of Griz DOLA

The acronym used in the 2000s, when the Montana Grizzlies were blowing open lanes for the likes of Lex Hilliard and Chase Reynolds, was DOLA.

Great Bear Festival offers a taste of local brews and food

The Great Bear Festival returns offering up a selection of more than 35 local and regional brewers, cider makers and wineries to sample Saturday, Aug. 5.

Kalispell man earns partially suspended sentence for assaulting girlfriend

Eugene Clark, 42, at one point faced a felony count of aggravated assault in Flathead County District Court.

The goose hisses

Because of the biennial reappraisal of residential property most Montanans are faced with huge increases in the values of their homes and the Montana Department of Revenue has done its best to get our attention.

Letters to the editor Aug. 3

Letters to the editor Aug. 3

Zinke right to eliminate Glacier reservations

As a lifelong resident of Montana and 42 year resident of the Flathead Valley, I strongly disagree with the lack of support of Congressmen Zinke’s efforts to eliminate the reservation system implemented by a distant third party for our Glacier National Park.

Law roundup: Doobie’s escape plan goes up in smoke

A dog named Doobie’s escapades went up in smoke after someone found him running the streets again and took him to the Whitefish Police Department. Officers were blunt about the nature of the repeat offense and issued Doobie’s owner a citation.

Jerry Wayne Nezat, 88

Jerry Wayne Nezat

Wachholz brings mix of performers to the stage

The Wachholz College Center brings a variety of musical performances to the stage this month from cello and piano to the soulful Delta swamp blues and Mardi Gras Indian funk.

Concert celebrates Flathead Valley Jewish community

Glacier Jewish Community/B'nai Shalom is celebrating its eighth year and the retirement of founding Rabbi Francine Roston with a performance by bluegrass-Americana-roots band Nefesh Mountain Aug. 10.

Keep your bear spray handy

Managing grizzly bears is a difficult if not an impossible job for wildlife managers.

Stoltze to close public access as fire danger rises

Columbia Falls-based F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber Co. plans to close its land to public access on Monday, Aug. 7 due to elevated fire danger.

Flathead County moves to stage 2 fire restrictions Saturday

Flathead and Sanders counties will move to stage 2 fire restrictions beginning Saturday, Aug. 5.

Niarada Fire surges to 8,400 acres; evacuations ordered near Spotted Bear complex

Command of the Niarada Fire west of Elmo was turned over to the Northern Rockies Complex Incident Management Team 3 on Wednesday morning.

The Pittsburgh synagogue gunman will be sentenced to death for the nation's worst antisemitic attack

PITTSBURGH (AP) — The gunman who stormed a synagogue in the heart of Pittsburgh's Jewish community and killed 11 worshippers will be sentenced to death for perpetrating the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history.

Blackfeet tribe of Montana declares emergency over Medicaid scam that lured members to Arizona

BROWNING, Mont. (AP) — A widespread Medicaid scam that left an unknown number of Native Americans homeless in metro Phoenix is being declared a public health state of emergency by the Blackfeet Nation of Montana after the Navajo Nation took similar action in June.

Discounted Northwest Montana Fair carnival tickets available

A limited number of discounted tickets for the carnival at the 2023 Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo are on sale now at all Whitefish Credit Union branches, the fairgrounds office and the CHS store in Kalispell.

Bear attack survivor shares tips for recreating in grizzly country

As he was dangling from the mouth of a record-size brown bear in Alaska, several thoughts surged through Brent Hudson’s badly bleeding head.

Legals for August, 2 2023

Law roundup: Woman reports fraudulent job posting

A woman allegedly realized a job listing she responded to was fraudulent and told police they company had requested money from her, which she didn’t pay, and that she then received a fraudulent check for $20,000 to buy equipment.

Wolfpack’s Henry Sellards commits to NDSU football

Henry Sellards, who will be a senior offensive lineman at Glacier High this fall, already has plans for college — he gave his verbal commitment to North Dakota State for football Tuesday.

Legals for August, 2 2023

Heinrich “Henry” Ratz, 91

Heinrich Ratz

PEO awards scholarship to Flathead senior

The scholarship recognizes the accomplishments of graduating high school young women planning to pursue post-secondary education based on leadership, academics, extracurricular activities, community and volunteer service, and potential future success.

Private security firm begins patrolling downtown Kalispell

Private security patrols meant to curb vagrancy in downtown Kalispell kicked off last week with the business groups behind the effort reporting raising over $13,000 for the initiative.

Big Mountain Road pavement project to begin

Big Mountain Road will undergo pavement preservation work starting Aug. 7, according to the Montana Department of Transportation.

Despite criticisms, Glacier National Park officials see upsides to ticketed entry system

Glacier National Park’s pilot vehicle reservation system has drawn criticism in recent months, most vocally from U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, but officials say data shows that locals are still getting in while visitor experience has improved.

Witness to shooting given suspended prison sentence

The man who accompanied convicted murderer Zackary Mass on the night he killed Gabriel Wagoner in a Kalispell apartment received a suspended 10-year sentence for his role in the attack last month.

Trump charged by Justice Department for efforts to overturn his 2020 presidential election loss

Donald Trump was indicted on felony charges Tuesday for working to overturn the results of the 2020 election in the run-up to the violent riot by his supporters at the U.S. Capitol, with the Justice Department moving to hold him accountable for an unprecedented effort to block the peaceful transfer of presidential power.

Fire danger raised to 'extreme' in Flathead County

The fire danger level for Northwest Montana was elevated to “extreme” on Tuesday, prompting Flathead County commissioners to declare a state of emergency for the county.

Libby man charged after alleged Russian roulette game ends in death

A Libby man facing charges involving the death of another local man on Memorial Day weekend during a game of Russian roulette appeared in Lincoln County District Court on July 24 and pleaded not guilty.

Survey gauges Whitefish residents' attitudes toward tourism

A Whitefish tourism group is asking residents to take a survey that gauges attitudes toward visitation.

Letters to the editor Aug. 1

Letters to the editor Aug. 1

Union, Logan Health reach tentative contract agreement

Members of the Service Employees International Union 1199NW at Logan Health are voting on a tentative contract agreement this week after months of negotiations with the health care system’s administration.

Margorie Dendy Periman, 79

Margorie Dendy Periman

ImagineIF Foundation invited back to Great Fish Challenge

The ImagineIF Foundation is once again participating in the Great Fish Challenge a year after the nonprofit behind the fundraising drive dropped the organization, citing decisions made by the county library system’s governing board.

County board of adjustment considers Bigfork vacation rentals

The Flathead County Board of Adjustment on Tuesday will look at two separate requests regarding vacation rentals in Bigfork.

Homeless shelter resident accused of raping roommate

Prosecutors filed one count of felony sexual intercourse without consent against Christopher John Boer, 39, in Flathead County District Court following his July 30 arrest. His arraignment is not yet scheduled.

Law roundup: Man hogs area with trailer to go shopping

The man reportedly driving a Subaru that was pulling a stainless steel trailer must have thought he owned the place when he reportedly parked in a traffic lane, blocking northbound traffic, got out and then went into a wholesale store off U.S. 93.

All-State AA Legion team out; Lakers’ Holden is all-conference

Max Holden of the Kalispell Lakers was among the honorees on the 2023 AA Montana/Alberta All-State and All-Conference American Legion baseball teams, released Monday.

Legals for August, 1 2023

Misguided tax policy burdens homeowners, retired

Montanans recently received an unpleasant reminder of the perils of bad tax policy in their mail. Spending significant amounts of time in Granite County, I had the displeasure of seeing friends and family face average reappraisals topping 60 percent.