Ellington

House OKs debt ceiling bill to avoid default, sends Biden-McCarthy deal to Senate

The House has approved the debt ceiling and budget cuts package, sending it to the Senate.

Legals for May, 31 2023

Kalispell's homeless report string of attacks

Members of Kalispell’s homeless community and the social workers who serve them are reporting an uptick in harassment and violence in city parks.

Whitefish Community Foundation awards grant for Owen-Sowerwine Natural Area

Since 1992, Flathead Audubon Society has managed the 442-acre Owen Sowerwine natural area, a section of Montana School Trust Land east of Kalispell.

Ronald G. Bond, 86

Ronald G. Bond, 86

Man accused of firing gun that wounded sleeping woman changes plea

George Paul Herne, 20, entered the changed plea before Judge Dan Wilson in Flathead County District Court on May 24. Wilson set sentencing for July 27.

FWP seeking public input on proposed timberland conservation easement

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is soliciting public input on the potential purchase of a conservation easement on 47,907 acres of timberland in the Thompson River drainage of Flathead and Sanders counties.

Eureka school project produces twin tiny homes

Over the past school year, students from Eureka High School have spent several hours each day inside a workshop north of town. They’ve driven nails, hung windows, put up sheetrock, sanded, primed and painted. With each step, raw materials partly purchased with federal Covid-19 relief funds have taken on the shape of two identical tiny homes: gray with single-sash windows and black trim, each fully wired and plumbed.

Nancy Lee Martinson, 87

Nancy Lee Martinson, 87

Rick Alan Sullivan, 60

Rick Alan Sullivan

Wolfpack puts three on All-State softball list

Glacier’s State AA softball championship couldn’t have happened without some big-time performances, and now three Wolfpack players are All-State.

Glacier High School senior thrives on helping others

Glacier High School holds its commencement ceremony on Friday, June 2 at 10 a.m. in the gym.

Law roundup: Moose provide golf course with new hazard

Moose were running around the golf course and cemetery on U.S. 93.

New state-of-the-art VA clinic coming to Kalispell

A state-of-the-art Veterans Affairs clinic is expected to open in Kalispell in 2025.

Philip Edward Kehres, 71

Phil Kehres, 71

Grizzly bear found shot to death in Sanders County

State and federal wildlife officials are seeking information on a grizzly bear that was shot and killed near Noxon in Sanders County.

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office sees busy holiday weekend

By weekend’s end, the population at the county jail had risen to 111 inmates.

Former first lady Rosalynn Carter has dementia, The Carter Center says

ATLANTA (AP) — Former first lady Rosalynn Carter has dementia, her family announced Tuesday.

Glacier Range Riders win home opener after trailing by 9

Home Opener No. 2 was a lot warmer for the Glacier Range Riders, the outcome a lot more entertaining — and Crews Taylor was on the right side of it both times.

Letters to the editor May 30

Letters to the editor May 30

Republicans put Montanan’s tax dollars to work

Republicans came into the 2023 session focused on how to ensure a large surplus was handled with the utmost respect for Montanans, as well as meeting the needs of state services. With a surplus estimated at over 2 billion dollars, this was a monumental undertaking.

Mann, Moultray and Peters All-State for state champ Wildkats

Senior Syd Mann and juniors Maddie Moultray and Haden Peters, who just led Columbia Falls to its first State A softball championship, have been named All-State in voting by the Northwest A coaches.

Stillwater School senior embraces leadership

The commencement ceremony for the Class of 2023 for Stillwater Christian School is Friday, June 2.

Law roundup: Woman misdials number but doesn't give up

A woman reportedly dialed 911 and said “wrong number” and hung up.

Legals for May, 30 2023

Law roundup: Woof, roof can't be hangout for dogs

A “welfare check” was purportedly requested for a white dog hanging out on the roof of a house. A Kalispell Police Department officer arrived find the dog in a second-story door that opened to the roof with no fencing.

Whitefish’s preliminary budget calls for increase in property taxes

Whitefish’s proposed budget is calling for an increase in property taxes after the previous year’s budget relied on an increase in resort tax collections to provide a property tax rebate.

Range Riders ready for (dry) home opener

It’s a little early to have a formula for winning Pioneer League baseball games, but the Glacier Range Riders are 2-0 when they score six runs or more.

Legals for May, 29 2023

Letters to the editor May 29

Letters to the editor May 29

AA Lakers sweep 4 from Pullman

You can’t say all the Kalispell Legion baseball teams do is win, but it’s been pretty close in 2023.

Whitefish High School senior finds opportunity in life’s challenges

The Whitefish High School holds its commencement ceremony for the Class of 2023 on Saturday, June 3.

Biden and McCarthy reach final deal on debt ceiling

With days to spare before a potential first-ever government default, President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy reached final agreement Sunday on a deal to raise the nation's debt ceiling and worked to ensure enough support in Congress to pass the measure in the coming week.

The best way to honor those who didn’t make it home is to fight for those who did

Growing up I always knew summer was around the corner when my dad loaded us up and took us down to the Whitefish Memorial Day parade.

Charles 'Chuck' Sweetser, 64

Charles "Chuck" Sweetser, 64

Debra Gillman, 70

Debra Gillman, 70

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

The Nook embraces wellness and art in Bigfork

The Nook at Bigfork Bay encompasses Aiology Works, an acoustic and vibral healing studio and Bluebird and Honeybee, a mercantile offering locally curated artisan gifts and goods.

Law roundup: Bicyclist collides with dog and crashes

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office responded to a Whitefish residence when someone reported hearing about 30 minutes of gunshots that sounded too close to the house. Deputies

Bigfork teams fourth at State B track

Boulder’s boys and Missoula Loyola’s girls claimed the team crowns at the Class B State Track and Field Championships on Saturday.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead businesses

Transportation bill includes $1M for Evergreen sidewalks

Evergreen is slated to receive $1 million from the state to fund the construction of sidewalks along U.S. 2, an effort spearheaded by Rep. Tony Brockman, R-Kalispell.

Mona (Tipton) Thompson, 65

Mona (Tipton) Thompson, 65

Jeffrey L. Secord, 65

Jeffrey L. Secord, 65

Letters to the editor May 28

Letters to the editor May 28

Governor ignores repercussions of veto

Gov. Greg Gianforte wielded his veto power May 17 when he rejected a bill that would have reimbursed Lake County for some of the costs it incurs to conduct felony law enforcement on the Flathead Reservation through Public Law 280.

Story of a hero — new book chronicles distinguished Montana veterans

Army Chief Warrant Officer Manford Lloyd Kleiv had a dream of returning to his hometown of Whitefish following the Vietnam War.

A Lakers run record to 20-2

The Kalispell A Lakers continue to pick up wins, improving to 20-2 on the season with a doubleheader sweep of the Pullman A Patriots Sunday, 7-5 and 17-3.

Ruth Julian, 86

Ruth Julian, 86

Taking on China to defend our Montana way of life

With the weather finally warming up here for spring time, I’ve been spending a lot of time out on my tractor finishing up planting.

3BR Soccer Tournament back at Kidsports this week

The 3 Blind Refs Soccer Tournament, rebranded this year as the 3BR Tournament, is set to captivate soccer enthusiasts and fans alike on June 2-4 at the esteemed Kidsports Complex in Kalispell.

James 'Jim' J. Cole Sr., 91

James "Jim" J. Cole Sr., 91

Lacey Phillips, 37

Lacey Phillips, 37

Legals for May, 28 2023

Opportunities missed to protect Flathead watershed

The 68th session of the Montana Legislature recently concluded. While there have been some tacit wins for water quality, the Flathead Lakers see this as a glass-half-empty session.

Commissioners signal support for giving ImagineIF Libraries $2.5M for facilities projects

Flathead County commissioners gave their blessing to a request from the ImagineIF Board of Trustees for the library system to receive $2.5 million over 10 years, though the county budget won't be finalized likely until August.

Mary Leach, 93

Mary Leach, 93

Montana seltzers small, popular part of brewery market in state

Montana drinkers have pushed the state to high per capita beer consumption — most recently No. 3 per capita after North Dakota and New Hampshire, according to USA Today citing data from beerinfo.com.

Columbia Falls High School senior pushes through grief to find strength

Columbia Falls High School holds its commencement ceremony for the Class of 2023 on Saturday, June 3.

Robert 'Bob' Wolf 87

Robert 'Bob' Wolf 87

Anderson, Krause lead Wolfpack boys to trophy

Aiden Krause can throw and Ethan Anderson can fly. Both won events Saturday, one as the favorite and the other in an upset, as Glacier’s boys grabbed the third-place trophy at the State AA meet at Bulldog Memorial Stadium.

PHOTOS: Kayakers ride the Wild Mile at 48th Bigfork Whitewater Festival

Kayakers navigate the Wild Mile along the Swan River during the Expert Slalom event at the 48th annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival on Saturday, May 27.

Venmo to be officially available for teenagers, although many use it already

Using Venmo won't necessarily be new to a good number of teens — parents often set up accounts for their children through their own accounts, which is a violation of Venmo's terms of service.

Wolfpack crushes Helena for softball title

Helena pitcher Faith Howard threw a heck of a game at the Glacier Wolfpack Saturday, in the first championship game of the State AA softball tournament. It was the Wolfpack that owned the encore.

Independent bookselling expanded again in 2022, with new and diverse stores opening nationwide

Once overwhelmingly white, the booksellers association added 46 stores last year that reported diverse ownership.

Group makes push for new skatepark in Columbia Falls

The Bad Rock Skate Park Association hopes to soon do a formal land survey at Fenholt Park in Columbia Falls for a new skatepark after the city concurred with the idea.

Elon Musk's brain implant company Neuralink says it has US approval to begin trials in people

The company made the announcement on Twitter Thursday evening but has provided no details about a potential study, which was not listed on the U.S. government database of clinical trials.

Wildkats storm to first State A softball crown

Columbia Falls stormed to a first-ever State A softball championship Saturday, and we’re not just talking about the weather.

Blue Devils sweep A track, girls top Whitefish by point

So close. Both the girls and boys team races at the State A track and field meet came down to the final event Saturday, and each were decided by a single point.

Motorist accused of drunkenly crashing into cyclists takes plea deal

Prosecutors brought Kenneth Malcolm Stevenson, 34, up on one count of felony negligent vehicular assault following the Aug. 21, 2022 collision on Seventh Avenue East North in Kalispell.

Spirit squad: 3 Polson grads make UM cheerleading team

“I’m in a little bit of a pickle,” admits Polson High senior Lucy Violett, who recently won a spot on the UM Griz Cheer Squad.

A measure of inflation that is closely tracked by the Federal Reserve increased in April

Friday's report from the government also showed that despite rising prices, consumers remain buoyant.

Fitzgerald’s big night spurs Range Riders win

GREAT FALLS — Benjamin Fitzgerald doubled twice, homered and drove in six runs Friday night, keying Glacier’s come-from-behind 17-11 Pioneer League baseball win over Great Falls.

Pirates win first boys tennis title in 10 years

Polson had boys doubles and girls singles champions Friday at the Class A State Tennis Tournament, and the Polson boys nabbed the team title to boot, its first in a decade.

Whitefish girls keep repeat track title in range

There’s a lot of track and field left for the Whitefish girls, but they are sitting pretty good after Day One of the State A meet.

Wolfpack earns berth in AA softball title game

Ella Farrell threw a six-inning one-hitter, drove in two runs and the white-hot Glacier Wolfpack advanced to the State AA softball championship with a 10-0 win over Helena Friday.

Sanders and Glanville win state doubles crown, Wolfpack boys tie for 2nd

Glacier got a boys doubles state champion to help the Wolfpack tie for second and the Missoula Hellgate Knights ended Bozeman’s decade-long run as girls champion Friday at the Class AA State Tennis Tournament at FVCC.

Wildkats march into State A softball semi

Into the State A semifinals are the Columbia Falls Wildkats, a hard-hitting bunch that won their 22nd and 23rd games on Friday.

Helena teams strong at AA track; Glacier boys sit 6th

After one day of competition, Helena High leads both sides of the State AA track and field meet at Bulldog Memorial Stadium.

Judge says fire retardant drops are polluting streams but allows use to continue

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A judge ruled Friday that the U.S. government can keep using chemical retardant to fight wildfires, despite finding that the practice pollutes streams in western states in violation of federal law.

MSU's Perrin qualifies for NCAA nationals in 10,000 meters

Montana State junior Ben Perrin successfully navigated a 48-man field to qualify for his first ever NCAA Track and Field Championships, placing 11th in the 10,000-meters at the 2023 NCAA Outdoor West Prelims on Wednesday night at Hornet Stadium. The top 12 finishers advance to the NCAA Track and Field Championships in Austin, Texas, June 7-10.

Avalanche Creek drowning victim identified as University of Kansas student

The 28-year-old woman who drowned in Glacier National Park on Monday has been identified as a University of Kansas student who was on a tour of national parks with friends.

Gianforte takes veto scalpel to infrastructure bill

Gov. Greg Gianforte flexed his veto powers this week to cut into a $1.2 billion infrastructure bill that drew allegations of pork-barrel spending as it emerged from this year’s Montana Legislature.

CEO of Western Montana Mental Health steps down

One of the state’s most prominent providers of mental health and addiction services will soon begin searching for a new chief executive.

Drunk motorist caught driving on pedestrian path sentenced in district court

Judge Dan Wilson on May 11 ordered 31-year-old Steven Lee Myers to 13 months with the state Department of Corrections to await placement in a residential treatment facility.

Voyagers' big inning dooms Range Riders

GREAT FALLS — Up 2-0 early, the Glacier Range Riders gave up four runs in the fourth inning to Great Falls in a 5-3 Pioneer League baseball loss to the Voyagers Thursday.

$1 million donation will expand Montana Pediatrics’ after-hours telemedicine program

The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation and Montana Pediatrics recently announced a two-year partnership to increase access to pediatric care for children, fueled by a $1 million investment.

Blackfeet Nation’s Lily Gladstone in spotlight for role in Martin Scorsese’s new film

Her cousin is acclaimed singer-songwriter, poet and speaker Jack Gladstone, who helped found Glacier National Park’s Native America Speaks program.

Environmentalists sue to protect Lake Koocanusa selenium rule

Environmental groups in Montana and Idaho are defending a water quality standard Montana adopted in 2020 by suing a quasi-judicial board that’s spent the past year trying to invalidate it.

Montana Legends look forward to their 14th year of fundraising for veterans

Fourteen years ago, just before Memorial Day, Richard “Hog Dick” Fliehler and Mitchell Allen Kopczyk lost their lives in a car accident near Bigfork on their way to the A Bar in Ferndale, where they planned to meet friends John “JP” Pettigrew and Fella Mulberger.

Businesses addressing local child care shortage

Local businesses and child care centers are looking to partner up and offer child care benefits in an effort to attract and retain employees, with a lack of early childhood education and preschool options keeping would-be working parents at home to take care of young children.

Whitefish Mountain Resort kicks off summer season

Whitefish Mountain Resort will kick off its 2023 summer season with zip line tours, alpine slides, scenic chairlift rides and other activities on Memorial Day weekend.

Elsie DeMars, 81

Elsie DeMars, 81

John L. Moore Jr., 59

John L. Moore Jr., 59

Legals for May, 26 2023

Law roundup: Motorist loses track of vehicle after wreck

A man who fled the scene after crashing his vehicle called the Kalispell Police Department later on to see if they could tell him where the tow truck had taken the wrecked rig.

Glacier cruises, Flathead falls at State AA

Ella Farrell hit a first-inning homer, then completed a two-hit shutout Thursday, leading Glacier over Missoula Big Sky 7-0 at the State AA softball tournament.

Ramage, Ellis, Beagle and Todd in semis at State A tennis

Columbia Fall’s Cloey Ramage worked her way into semifinals at the Class A State Tennis Tournament on Thursday, as did Whitefish duo Mason Kelch and Dane Hunt

Glacier boys, Whitefish girls chase track hardware

The state track and field championships are this weekend, and the weather is — it’s Memorial Day weekend, remember — not particularly promising. Such is the case in Butte, where the State AA and B meets will run concurrently.

Libby wins before rain suspends State A

Rain halted proceedings at the State A softball tournament Thursday, leaving Libby, Columbia Falls and Polson to make up time on Friday.

Glacier boys tied with Gallatin for second at State AA

As expected, Glacier’s top doubles pairs made a good showing on the first day of the Class AA State Tennis Tournament at FVCC on Thursday under mostly dry skies.

Whitefish man arraigned on allegations of voter fraud

A Whitefish man accused of casting another person’s ballot in the 2020 election pleaded not guilty in federal court on Thursday.

Range Riders pound Voyagers 11-4

GREAT FALLS — Benjamin Fitzgerald and Gabe Howell got the Glacier Range Riders offense going early in Wednesday’s 11-4 Pioneer League win at Great Falls. With solo home runs in the seventh and eighth innings, they put a nice capper on things as well.

Oath Keepers founder Stewart Rhodes sentenced to 18 years for seditious conspiracy in Jan. 6 attack

WASHINGTON (AP) — The founder of the Oath Keepers extremist group was sentenced Thursday to 18 years in prison for orchestrating a weekslong plot that culminated in his followers attacking the U.S. Capitol in a bid to keep President Joe Biden out of the White House after the 2020 election.

Rock phenom and a capella group both makes stops in Kalispell this fall

Tickets are on sale now for two blockbuster concert tours coming to the Wachholz Wachholz College Center in the fall.

Artists selected for wilderness residency program

Artists Bri Dostie of Missoula and Portland, Maine, and Griffin Foster of Bozeman were selected to live and create in nature as part of the Artist Wilderness Connection program.

Legals for May, 25 2023

New angling opportunities in Montana

Similar to most fishermen or should I say anglers, since there are some very dedicated local lady anglers, I am always looking for more information about how to catch more fish and especially about new angling opportunities.

Flathead High School theater takes audiences ‘Around the World in 80 Days’

Flathead High School’s 2022 theater season with the extraordinary adventures of Phileas Fogg in “Around the World in 80 Days,” May 25 and 26th.

Local author tackles grief, healing in new book for teens

Local author Jessica Kara takes on the complex facets of grief in her latest young adult contemporary novel, “Don’t Ask If I’m Okay.”

Bigfork market opens for season

The market will continue to take place at the Riverview Bar/ Lake Bakes from 5-7 p.m. on Mondays, but this year will run from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

County employees to get pay increase

Most Flathead County employees will get a 4% raise while deputy county attorneys will see a total increase of 9% after county commissioners voted Tuesday to approve the wage bumps.

Port Polson Players presents 'Steel Magnolias'

The Port Polson Players continues its 48th season with the heartfelt comedy-drama “Steel Magnolias.”

Let science guide decisions on bear management

As a Montanan and resident of Flathead County, I have a big stake in what happens to grizzly bears including inside Montana.

The mayor of Alberton

I hadn’t seen Joe Hanson for a few years. Mutual friends were saying that I should get over to Alberton to see him because — you know — he’s getting up there in years.

Daines bill targets drag performances on military bases

A drag queen story hour and drag show on Malmstrom Air Force base nearly two years ago has prompted U.S. Sen. Steve Daines to push for a ban on what he describes as “adult cabaret performances” on military installations.

Fifth Avenue West in Kalispell to close for paving project

A portion of Fifth Avenue West will again close to traffic this week as the Kalispell Street Department paves the busy stretch of roadway as part of a sewer and water main relocation project.

Law roundup: Woman thinks somebody’s watching her

A woman had a gut feeling that her car was being tracked and reportedly suspected her “control freak” daughter-in-law who had previously installed apps on her phone.

Man accused of exposing himself to young girls in Kalispell

John Thomas Cohenour faces a single felony count of indecent exposure in Flathead County District Court following his May 23 arrest.

Wolfpack, Bravettes ready for State AA

Glacier’s softball squad is a No. 1 seed into the State AA tournament that begins today at Helena’s Batch Fields, which means they’ll hurry up and wait.

Polson sweeps divisional tennis titles

Polson won both team titles and Libby’s Ryan Beagle and Polson’s Clara Todd repeated as divisional champions last week at the Northwest A Divisional tennis tournament.

Flathead’s Kersten looks to step up at state

There are a few frontrunners for the 2023 State AA tennis girls singles title, and Flathead’s Alexis Kersten is one of them.

Hiring of Flathead hoops coach tabled by board

In another left turn in Flathead High School’s search for its next boys basketball coach, the hiring of Dan Trageser has been tabled by the Kalispell School Board.

C-Falls, Libby head into (State A) unknown

It used to be, the top three regular-season teams from four conferences populated the annual State A softball tournament.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis launches 2024 GOP presidential campaign to challenge Trump

MIAMI (AP) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis entered the 2024 presidential race on Wednesday, stepping into a crowded Republican primary contest that will test both his national appeal as an outspoken cultural conservative and the GOP's willingness to move on from former President Donald Trump.

Tina Turner, unstoppable superstar whose hits included 'What's Love Got to Do With It,' dead at 83

NEW YORK (AP) — Tina Turner, the unstoppable singer and stage performer who teamed with husband Ike Turner for a dynamic run of hit records and live shows in the 1960s and '70s and survived her horrifying marriage to triumph in middle age with the chart-topping "What's Love Got to Do With It," has died at 83.

Officers describe chaos, fear on Jan. 6 as judge weighs prison time for Oath Keepers' Rhodes

WASHINGTON (AP) — Police officers who defended the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, and public servants who fled the mob's attack told a judge on Wednesday that they are still haunted by what they endured, as the judge prepares to hand down sentences in a landmark Capitol riot case.

Yellowstone baby bison put to death after visitor picks it up, leading herd to reject it

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — Yellowstone National Park officials killed a newborn bison because its herd wouldn't take the animal back after a man picked it up.

Hearing date set for Glacier National Park inholder case

The Flathead Conservation District Board on Monday set Aug. 25 as the hearing date for a home that it believes was illegally built on the shores of McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park.

Lake County poised to withdraw from PL 280 after governor's veto

Gov. Greg Gianforte last week vetoed House Bill 479 – the only bill regarding Public Law 280 to make it through the 2023 Legislature. And this Thursday, the Lake County commissioners will vote on whether to withdraw from the law enforcement agreement that’s given the county felony criminal jurisdiction over tribal members since 1965.

Abortion providers, state attorneys spar over new restrictions

A Helena district court judge on Tuesday barred the state from enforcing five new abortion restrictions while litigation over their constitutionality continues.

Commissioners reject zone change for KM Ranch Road property

Saying they agreed with neighbors who spoke against the plan, Flathead County commissioners on Tuesday denied a zone change for 155 acres along KM Ranch Road, arguing it doesn’t fit with the neighborhood.

Lacey Phillips, 37

Lacey Phillips, 37

Project aims to restore underpass leading into Glacier’s west entrance

A group of West Glacier residents are working to beautify and restore the underpass leading into Glacier National Park’s busiest entrance.

Regier family touts success on social issues during legislative session

The prominent political family, which includes Sen. Keith Reiger and his children, Rep. Amy Regier and Speaker of the House Matt Regier, all Kalispell Republicans, focused their May 19 legislative recap on the GOP supermjority’s success passing laws limiting abortion access, medical care for transgender youth, and preventing what they see as the sexualization of children.

Case dropped against woman accused of passing fake bonds

Authorities brought Liane Maree Lovelace, 55, up on a forgery charge after bank officials determined several bonds she tried to cash on April 7 were fake, according to court documents.

Glacier National Park, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks begin grizzly monitoring

Glacier National Park is participating in an effort led by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to monitor the grizzly bear population in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem.

Miriam Lee (Dolly) Vallieres, 80

Miriam Lee (Dolly) Vallieres, 80

Whitefish Community Foundation awards grants to nonprofit organizations

The organizations represent projects and programs in Bigfork, Browning, Columbia Falls, Eureka, Evergreen, Hungry Horse, Kalispell and Whitefish.

Law roundup: Barefoot man shows up at police department in handcuffs

A man wearing handcuffs showed up in the Kalispell Police Department lobby asking for help with removing the bling.

Legals for May, 24 2023

Glacier Park International Airport adds summertime flight to Burbank, California

One hundred and twelve people and four small dogs got off a Boeing 737 at Glacier Park International Airport on Monday evening, the inaugural passengers on a bi-weekly direct flight between the Flathead Valley and Burbank, California operated by budget carrier Avelo Airlines.

Hundreds of local students take part in Girls on the Run 5K

More than 450 girls, spectators, volunteers and community members gathered on Sunday, May 21 for the Girls on the Run Flathead Valley celebratory 5K event, the culminating moment of the Girls on the Run season, aptly called the Super Power 5K.

Bonjour Bakery combines French and Argentinian flavors into tasty treats

Bonjour Bakery and Bistro in Kalispell specializes in providing authentic dulce de leche and other Argentinian and French inspired treats to the Flathead Valley.

Focaccia great way to showcase produce

One of my favorite ways to showcase all this is a light, airy loaf of focaccia.

Relocated Libby Food Pantry still providing for its community

After moving out of the defunct Asa Wood Elementary School in 2022, volunteers running the Libby Food Pantry are more than pleased with their new home.

Grant aims to turn Flathead County Health Department into regional hub for overdose prevention

The Flathead City-County Health Department will become a hub for training resources and naloxone distribution for several Northwest Montana communities after receiving a $173,000 grant to combat opioid overdoses.

Montana first to ban people dressed in drag from reading to children in schools, libraries

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana has become the first state to specifically ban people dressed in drag from reading books to children at public schools and libraries, part of a host of legislation aimed at the rights the LGBTQ+ community in Montana and other states.

Montana acts to protect Native American priority in adopting Native children

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte has signed legislation giving Native American families preference in fostering and adopting Native children involved with child protective services, a proactive move to protect such rights as the U.S. Supreme Court considers a case that could undercut them nationally.

Range Riders lose lead in 8th, fall to Voyagers in opener

Austin Bates drove in three runs as the Glacier Range Riders pushed into a 5-1 lead over Great Falls in the Pioneer League baseball opener for both teams Tuesday.

Kansas woman dies after falling into Glacier National Park's Avalanche Creek

A 28-year-old woman died after falling into Avalanche Creek in Glacier National Park on Monday afternoon, park officials said.

Gianforte vetoes bill that would provide funding for law enforcement on Flathead reservation

Last week, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte vetoed House Bill 479 which would have provided funding for law enforcement on the the Flathead Reservation and given a coalition of stakeholders from the state, Lake County and Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes a chance to come up with a long-term solution.

Familar faces lead 2023 Range Riders into opener

Some familiar names dot the 2023 Glacier Range Riders roster ahead of the start of their second season, which begins Tuesday night in Great Falls.

Trageser picked to lead Flathead High boys basketball

After much delay and little more than a week before summer basketball camp season, Flathead High School has selected a head boys coach: Dan Trageser.

Teen accused of deliberately crashing U-Haul truck into security barrier at park near White House

WASHINGTON (AP) — Police have arrested a Missouri man they believe intentionally crashed a U-Haul truck into a security barrier at a park across from the White House.

Gianforte appoints Thomas Pardy to Thirteenth Judicial District Court

Gov. Greg Gianforte announced Monday his appointment of Thomas Pardy to serve on the Thirteenth Judicial District for Yellowstone County. Pardy will fill the vacancy created by Thirteenth Judicial District Judge Michael G. Moses’ retirement, effective July 1, 2023, according to a news release from the Governor’s Office.

Montana governor signs law to define 'sex' as only male or female

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Republican Governor Greg Gianforte has signed a bill defining the word "sex" in state law as only male or female — joining Kansas and Tennessee, which have similar laws that LGBTQ+ advocates argue will deny legal recognition to nonbinary and transgender people.

Airport applies for grant funding direct winter flight to Dallas

Glacier Park International Airport is seeking a federal grant to help underwrite a wintertime direct flight from the Flathead Valley to Dallas.

Sprunger bill increasing penalties for fentanyl trafficking signed into law

Gov. Greg Gianforte this month signed into law new penalties for convicted fentanyl dealers, an effort spearheaded by Rep. Courtenay Sprunger, R-Kalispell.

Legals for May, 23 2023

TikTok files lawsuit to overturn Montana's 1st-in-nation ban on the video sharing app

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Social media company TikTok Inc. filed a lawsuit Monday seeking to overturn Montana's first-in-the-nation ban on the video sharing app, arguing the law is an unconstitutional violation of free speech rights and is based on "unfounded speculation" that the Chinese government could access users' data.

Judge enters not guilty pleas for suspect in stabbing deaths of 4 University of Idaho students

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — A judge entered not guilty pleas Monday for a man charged in the stabbing deaths of four University of Idaho students, setting the stage for a trial in which he could potentially face the death penalty.

Tim Scott launches 2024 presidential bid seeking optimistic contrast with other top rivals

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott launched his presidential campaign on Monday, offering an optimistic message he hopes can contrast the two figures who have used political combativeness to dominate the early GOP primary field: former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Law roundup: Woman advised not to break window

A woman reportedly voiced her desire to break a window on someone’s truck because a dog had been inside with all the windows up for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Commissioners look at KM Ranch proposal

A public hearing is scheduled for 10:15 a.m. before the commissioners at the Historic Courthouse, 800 S. Main St. in Kalispell.

Bigfork history teacher gains perspective from travels

While Bigfork High School history teacher Cynthia Wilondek is passionate about the past, her own history is filled with interesting accounts of travels and jobs abroad that eventually led her back to Montana.

Letters to the editor May 22

Letters to the editor May 22

Legals for May, 22 2023

Bigfork runs (and throws) to Western B track sweep

MISSOULA — Jack Jensen and Wyatt Johnson each won twice for the Vikings, and depth won out for the Valkyries Saturday as Bigfork swept the team titles at the Western B Divisional meet.

Montana tourism officials say pandemic boom likely over

Tourism levels in Flathead County are expected to remain roughly the same as last year, with high costs and changing traveler attitudes putting the brakes on the rapid growth seen during the pandemic, local tourism industry experts say.

Amy Scalf Evans, 51

Amy Scalf Evans, 51

David H. Petry, 75

David H. Petry, 75

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Legislature gets the heavy lifting done

The recent legislative session was only the second in 20 years with a Republican governor.

Letters to the editor May 21

Letters to the editor May 21

Bill will change trajectory of state’s mental health services

As state legislators tally the wins and losses from the 2023 session, one area that all Montanans can celebrate is the commitment to shore up the state’s broken behavioral health network.

Governor's veto of SB 442 ignores wide bipartisan support

Gov. Greg Gianforte’s attempt to veto Senate Bill 442 is unpopular, inexplicable and contrary to the wishes of both the Legislature and the people of Montana.

Experts offer insights into assisting those in mental health crisis

The event was part of a series of events held this month in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month in May.

Federal Reserve Chair Powell hints at a pause in rate hikes when central bank meets next month

Several Fed officials have suggested that the failure of Silicon Valley Bank and two others might have little impact.

Japan's economy rebounds on healthy consumption as COVID restrictions ease, tourists arrive

Real gross domestic product, which measures the sum value of a nation's products and services, grew 0.4% in January-March on-quarter in the world's third largest economy, the government Cabinet Office said.

Fewer Americans apply for jobless benefits, labor market still showing strength

It turns out the recent jump in jobless benefit applications was largely due to fraudulent applications in Massachusetts, where claims fell this week by more than 14,000 from the previous week, analysts said.

Bruce Carrell, 77

Bruce Carrell, 77

Legals for May, 21 2023

Pam Jette, 81

Pam Jette, 81

Construction closes Whitefish path section in response to oil sheen

Work is expected to last approximately six weeks.

New heavy duty parts supplier opens in Kalispell

The 8,100-square-foot facility includes a retail display and a parts warehouse.

C-Falls wins Western A softball crown

FRENCHTOWN — Aspen Dawson drove in four runs and Maddie Moultray and Kyrah Trenkle had two RBIs each as Columbia Falls downed Polson 11-7 for the Western A Divisional softball title Saturday night.

Law roundup: Man pretends to be police officer

Kalispell Police Department received two reports of a man pretending to be an officer and flashing a badge. In the first

Fisher pitches, hits Polson to state title

They didn’t announce a most valuable player at the first-ever Montana All-Class State Baseball Tournament, but if they did, it would likely be Espn Fisher.

Collaboration moves forward significant legislation

One of us is a member of an elected endangered political species in Northwest Montana and the other, the supermajority party.

AA Lakers bats start fast in wins

The AA Lakers picked up a sweep Saturday with an 11-3 win over Sherwood Park in the early game and a 10-1 win over the Calgary Cardinals in the nightcap of the Canadian Days tournament.

Log by log, middle school students build history lesson

The log cabin build is part of a homesteading unit the students are learning.

Eddie’s Cafe in Apgar undergoes makeover

Owner Brian Kelly has been overseeing a remodel of the Apgar landmark in Glacier National Park from late last year through the winter.

Bryan J. Goulet, 64

Bryan J. Goulet, 64

Rock needs a new place

Sure the place was a little dusty, and the alphabetizing made no sense, but it made the hunt all that more potentially rewarding. Who knew so many records from France would end up in the Flathead?

PHOTOS: Lakers A, AA action from the Canadian Days Tournament

Action from the Kalispell Lakers A game against the Cranbrook Bandits and the Lakers AA game against the Sherwood Park AAA Athletics during the Canadian Days Tournament at Archie Roe and Griffin fields on Friday and Saturday, May 19-20

One killed in two-vehicle wreck on Bull Lake Road in Lincoln County

A 32-year-old Libby woman died in a two-vehicle traffic accident that left another person injured Friday evening on Bull Lake Road.

Zetooney, Erickson show speed at Western A

CORVALLIS — Whitefish Brooke Zetooney ran the fastest 100 meters this spring on Friday, in the prelims at the Western A Divisional track and field meet. She also scored eight points in the shot put.

C-Falls, Whitefish girls finish 2-3 at Western A

The host Corvallis girls couldn’t be caught this weekend, but Columbia Falls and Whitefish will have another shot at the Blue Devils next week.

Glacier boys, Bravettes third at Western AA track

Jeff Lillard and Aiden Krause were money, and so were Alivia Rinehart and Zoey Bortz. Behind them the Glacier boys and Flathead girls took home third-place trophies from the Western AA Divisional track and field meet.

VanCampen, Vessar, Franklin clinch Bravettes’ state berth

The Flathead Bravettes didn’t get a sweep Saturday, but they made the State AA tournament.

Nikunen hurls shutout in AA Lakers win Friday

Adam Nikunen tossed a five-inning shutout as the AA Lakers beat the Edmonton Padres 10-0 Friday on the first day of the annual Canadian Days tournament in Kalispell.

C-Falls, Libby to meet in Western A softball semis

FRENCHTOWN — Haden Peters hit a two-run double in the first and added another RBI double in a 13-run second inning for Columbia Falls, which made short work of Butte Central at the Western A softball divisional.

Heavily revised obscenity bill signed into law

Earlier this month, Gov. Greg Gianforte signed a bill that was among the most talked about and contentious of the 2023 session: Montana’s “obscenity bill.” And while the proposal underwent substantial changes to address the concerns of teachers and librarians, there’s a persistent confusion about what the new law actually does.

Whitefish rolls into baseball final, will face Polson

BUTTE — Logan Kunz doubled, drove in four runs and scored twice Friday, and pitcher Ty Schwaiger shook off a tough inning as Whitefish beat Hamilton 14-3 in the semifinals of the State baseball tournament.

A Lakers slug way to win

Braden Capser was a perfect 2-2 at the plate with two doubles and two RBI Saturday as the Kalispell A Lakers beat Changeup Academy 11-3 at Archie Roe field.

A Lakers pick up sweep Friday

It was a strong showing for the A Lakers on the first day of the annual Canadian Days tournament in Kalispell with the Lakers picking up a pair of wins Friday.

Glacier sweeps divisional doubles, team titles

Two Glacier doubles pairs were crowned champions and the Wolfpack edged C.M. Russell for both team titles at the Northern AA tennis divisional on Friday.

Montana Supreme Court tosses permit for Creston water-bottling plant

The Montana Supreme Court has ruled that a state agency unlawfully granted an operating permit for a controversial water-bottling plant in the Creston area.

TikTok content creators file lawsuit against Montana

Five TikTok content creators have filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn Montana's first-in-the-nation ban on the video sharing app, arguing the law is an unconstitutional violation of free speech rights.

Attorneys want Flathead Forest supervisor removed from Holland Lake decision

Flathead National Forest Supervisor Kurt Steele has violated federal ethics standards and should be removed as “authorized officer” in making decisions related to Holland Lake Lodge, allege a couple of Montana lawyers who have been scrutinizing the project.

Flathead family awarded for protecting land and water

The Grosswiler and Marvin families placed their land under a conservation easement with the Flathead Land Trust.

Debt limit talks in standstill as Republicans, White House face 'real differences'

It is unclear when negotiations would resume, though talks could pick up again over the weekend.

C-Falls teen accused of firing gun in dispute with father sentenced

Judge Dan Wilson handed down the suspended five-year sentence to Jeremiah Rardon, 19, for criminal endangerment on March 30.

Legals for May, 19 2023

Law Roundup: A pop-up ‘Fight Club’ in Kalispell

Officers with the Kalispell Police Department responded to a report of two teen boys fighting in front of a crowd of about 30 onlookers near a downtown mall.

Richard “Rick” Allen Faller, 72

Richard “Rick” Allen Faller

Scammers targeting landowners with goal of fake sales

Realtors say the area is particularly susceptible to these attempts, as there is an abundance of vacant land — much of which is owned by people living in other states — as well as skyrocketing property values over the last several years.

Food bank receives donation dedicated toward building food security

North Valley Food Bank recently received a $25,000 gift from First Interstate Bank and the First Interstate BancSystem Foundation as part of their second-annual Believe in Local grant campaign.

Kids Fund makes donation to Big Brothers Big Sisters

The donation will go directly to serve the children of Northwest Montana to provide professionally supported, one-to-one mentoring.

Nola K. Chandler, 64

Nola K. Chandler, 64

Blacktail backpacking event proposed for fall

A multi-day backpacking event around Blacktail Mountain is among the two dozen special-use permits under consideration by the Flathead National Forest.

Water, stormwater infrastructure work begins on Kalispell's west side

storyThe Kalispell Public Works Department has closed Eighth Avenue West between 10th and 11th streets west and 11th Street West between Seventh and Eighth avenues west for stormwater infrastructure improvements, part of a busy summer of capital projects scheduled in the city.

Logan Health gives out Healthy Classroom grants to educators

The Healthy Classrooms grant provides funding to local schools to aid in the creation or improvement of student-centered and staff-related healthy living initiatives.

Dennis Bucher, 75

Dennis Bucher

Gianforte vetoes mobile homes park bill, CPS reform, among other legislation

Gov. Greg Gianforte vetoed a bill that would have given protections for mobile home park residents, like requiring park owners give 60 days notice before taking action like increasing rent.

Montana judge temporarily blocks enforcement of abortion ban; hearing next week

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A Montana judge has temporarily blocked the state from enforcing a new ban on the type of abortion most commonly used after 15 weeks of gestation until he can hear arguments on the law next week.

Montana bans TikTok. But can the state enforce the law?

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte on Wednesday signed into law a first-of-its kind bill that makes it illegal for TikTok to operate in the state, setting up a potential legal fight with the company amid a litany of questions over whether the state can even enforce the law.

Law roundup: Welcome mat pulled for drunk neighbor

A resident went to the Columbia Police Department for advice about a drunken neighbor who kept coming over to their house uninvited and causing issues.

Wolfpack utilize the longball and strong pitching in crosstown win

Zoey Allen, Emma Cooke, and Kenadie Goudette all homered for the Glacier Wolfpack as they took home an 11-1 win over Flathead in the last meeting of Crosstown softball this season.

Whitefish, Polson advance to first state baseball semis

Whitefish Jacob Polumbus threw seven strong innings and catcher Fynn Ridgeway hit a three-run triple as the Bulldogs downed Frenchtown 7-2 at Montana’s first State baseball tournament Thursday.

Glacier boys, girls lead Northern AA tennis

Things shaped up mostly as expected on the first day of the Northern AA tennis divisional on Thursday, with Glacier leading both the boys and girls team races and C.M. Russell not far behind.

Claudia Dilys Cunningham (Nowicki)

Claudia Dilys Cunningham (Nowicki)

Metropolitan Opera Live in HD airs tragicomedy 'Don Giovanni' in Whitefish

“Don Giovanni,” an opera based on the legendary fictional libertine Don Juan, will be shown at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center May 20 as part of the Metropolitan Opera Live in HD program.

Flathead legislators saw session as a success

Local lawmakers returning home after the 68th Legislative Session are describing it as a success, specifically in regard to improving infrastructure, investing in health care and providing tax relief, despite the often hectic pace and other challenges.

Kolton Turner wins Spring Mack Days event

Kalispell’s Kolton Turner finished at the top of the heap at the Spring Mack Days fishing tournament on Flathead Lake.

Letters to the editor May 18

Letters to the editor May 18

Tax cheats and the debt dilemma

Americans have always commonly agreed that taxes are the price of a civilized society. Only relatively recently has the idea that “taxation is theft” been seriously suggested in the public discourse.

Legals for May, 18 2023

Movie Night at the Museum presents Buster Keaton’s ‘Sherlock Jr.’

Movie Night at the Museum goes silent with Buster Keaton’s 1924 comedy film classic “Sherlock Jr.” May 23.

Somers Middle School serves up a spoonful of sugar in 'Mary Poppins Jr.'

Get ready to get “Step in Time” along with Somers Middle School students in the theater program’s presentation of “Mary Poppins Jr.,” May 19 and 20th.

Supreme Court upholds zoning variance for Swiss Apartments

The Montana Supreme Court has upheld a district court ruling that allows for a nine-unit apartment complex to be rebuilt in Columbia Falls.

Gary Austin Hadlock, 80

Gary Austin Hadlock, 80

Inaugural FishFest takes over downtown Whitefish

Spurring sales for downtown businesses between the closing of the ski hill and the start of summer is one reason for the FishFest, but according to the Whitefish Chamber Executive Director Kevin Gartland, the main reason is to celebrate locals supporting locals.

Tickets on sale to see Grammy-nominated blues singer and band in Kalispell

Tickets are on sale to see Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and blues guitarist, Tab Benoit with opening act The Rumble, a New Orleans-based band, at the Wachholz College Center in August.

Karen Vergeront, 74

Karen Vergeront, 74

FVCC Festival of Flavors tickets on sale

The Summer Soirée on Swan River returns Monday, June 26.

Biden’s Labor nominee would cause more chaos

The frequent stream of crises that has been the hallmark of the Biden administration have one thing in common: they’re all self-inflicted.

Fairgrounds changes camping rules due to trash left on grounds

More than $10,000 was spent during the week of May 7 to remove trash and other items that were not claimed, according to a release from the county.

Montana becomes 1st state to ban TikTok

Montana became the first state in the U.S. to completely ban TikTok on Wednesday when the state's Republican governor signed a measure that's more sweeping than any other state's attempts to curtail the social media app.

Alberta fires send ‘wall of smoke’ into Montana

Air quality deteriorated across much of Montana on Wednesday as smoke from wildfires in Alberta, Canada infiltrated the region overnight.

Flathead man facing felony charge held box cutter to his throat, court docs say

Authorities have identified a Flathead Valley man already facing a felony stalking charge as the person who held a blade to his throat inside the Flathead County Justice Center in Kalispell on Tuesday.

Rensel drives in 5 in delayed game; C-Falls wins league

A nine-run third inning — which was interrupted for a day by rain — carried Columbia Falls over Polson 13-3 Wednesday in a Northwest A softball showdown.

Bigfork's Wade siblings finish strong, are State B golf medalists

Siblings Colin and Keni Wade of Bigfork held on to their first-rounds leads and finished as medalists at the State B golf tournament that concluded Wednesday.

Trever Landon Stroisch, 38

Trever Landon Stroisch, 38

Legals for May, 17 2023

Thousands of teammates, pupils and Ws

Gary Evans, the unheralded (and unpaid) pitching coach for the Glacier Wolfpack, figures he’s played alongside a thousand different fastpitch players.

Kalispell man arrested for flashing gun receives suspended sentence

Judge Dan Wilson handed down the suspended five-year sentence with the state Department of Corrections to 32-year-old Romano Corbitt on March 30.

Cases of chickenpox on the rise among school-aged children

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services officials are seeing an increase in the number of cases of chickenpox reported in school-aged children across the state.

Bigfork student wins top writing awards

Bigfork High School student Wyatt Barnes is the 2023 Authors of the Flathead student writing competition winner for his poem “My Eyes Belong to Me.”

Kalispell City Council reviews fire and police budgets

The city’s proposed $15.5 million operating budget, up from $14.1 million last year, largely goes toward public safety and emergency services.

Library now offers board games, puzzles for checkout

This new collection includes modern board, card, and puzzle games that focus on strategy, skills, and role-playing.

Law roundup: When the rooster crows

Someone allegedly heard a rooster crowing in the area of Meadow Lark Lane and voiced concerns to the Whitefish Police Department because they weren’t allowed in the city limits.

Co-op's Roundup for Safety program supports avalanche safety messaging

Among the funds given out, the board awarded $7,500 toward the Friends of the Flathead Avalanche Center’s efforts to improve the safety messaging functionalities of the Flathead Avalanche Center’s website.

Glacier Park seeking public comment on trout preservation project in Gunsight Lake

Glacier National Park officials are seeking public comment for a westslope cutthroat and bull trout preservation project at Gunsight Lake.

County on deck to explore library relocation to Gateway Center

Flathead County commissioners on Tuesday authorized a letter of intent that allows the county to explore the purchase of a portion of the Gateway Community Center as a possible future location for the Kalispell library.

Suspected fentanyl dealer pleads not guilty

Jessica Elaine Boyd-Criado, 27, appeared in Flathead County District Court before Judge Dan Wilson on May 11 for her arraignment on the felony charge.

Somers man sentenced for negligent vehicular assault, theft

Benjamin Edward Brant, 44, earned a 10-year sentence with the state Department of Corrections with five years suspended for felony negligent vehicular assault on April 13 as well as five years for felony theft of property.

Sanders and partner Glanville have eyes on success at state

Harrison Sanders and his doubles partner Timmy Glanville are all smiles whenever they’re on the court together, and they have good reason to be jovial: The pair is 11-2 in matches this spring heading into the Northern AA divisional, which begins today in Great Falls.

Montana abortion clinics ask judge to block law that bans second-trimester abortion method

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Planned Parenthood of Montana on Tuesday asked a state judge to temporarily block a law that bans the abortion method most commonly used after 15 weeks of gestation, arguing it is unconstitutional.

Man wielding a knife draws large police presence to Flathead courthouse

A man who brought a knife into the Flathead County Justice Center in Kalispell on Tuesday and held it to his throat is undergoing medical and mental health evaluations, officials confirmed.

A Lakers go 3-1 on weekend

Trever Cockerill threw a two-hitter with nine strikeouts and drove in two runs Sunday, helping the Kalispell A Lakers beat the Helena Reps 8-1 and gain a split of their Legion doubleheader.

Idaho Army special forces veteran believed killed in Ukraine blast in war with Russia

A retired U.S. military veteran from Idaho helping Ukraine combat Russia's invasion is believed to have been killed on the front lines in eastern Ukraine.

ChatGPT chief says artificial intelligence should be regulated by a US or global agency

The head of the artificial intelligence company that makes ChatGPT told Congress on Tuesday that government intervention "will be critical to mitigate the risks of increasingly powerful" AI systems.

Ceiling collapse at Kalispell Walgreens trapped two employees, officials say

Two employees of the Kalispell Walgreens were trapped after the ceiling caved in above their breakroom Sunday.

Wolfpack rout Bison after narrow CMR loss

Ella Farrell homered and threw a 5-inning shutout as Glacier beat Great Falls High 10-0 Tuesday, giving the Wolfpack a doubleheader split against the Electric City softball teams.

Legislature let Montanans down

It was disturbing to see the guest opinion from Rep. Matt Regier “Legislature defends Montana’s foundational values” in the Daily Inter Lake.

Bigfork siblings lead State B golf

Siblings Colin and Keni Wade are the only Bigfork representatives at the State B golf championships this spring, but they are representing well.

Legals for May, 16 2023

Letters to the editor May 16

Letters to the editor May 16

Law roundup: Woman deems neighbor’s dumping ‘inhuman’

A Kalispell woman complained to Flathead County Sherriff’s Office about her neighbor egregiously dumping five boxes filled with lawn trimmings, leaves and other debris onto her yard going as far as to say, “It’s inhuman to dump like that onto someone else’s property.”

Franklin, Bravettes top Great Falls; lose to CMR

Flathead’s Lacee Franklin stymied the Great Falls Bison, before the Bravettes lost control of a tie game in the sixth inning against C.M. Russell in a split of their softball games Tuesday.

Man arrested after allegedly making school shooting threat pleads not guilty

Appearing before Judge Danni Coffman, Robert Arnold Brown entered not guilty pleas to felony intimidation and misdemeanor assault with bodily fluid on May 15.

Local man admits to raping underage girl about a decade ago

Jon Allen Wilson, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual intercourse without consent before Judge Danni Coffman at a May 15 change of plea hearing.

Prosecutor ends probe of FBI's Trump-Russia investigation with harsh criticism, but no new charges

WASHINGTON (AP) — A special prosecutor has ended his four-year investigation into possible FBI misconduct in its probe of ties between Russia and Donald Trump's 2016 campaign with withering criticism of the bureau but a meager court record that fell far short of the former president's prediction he would uncover the "crime of the century."

Man with baseball bat attacks Virginia congressman's staffers; suspect in custody

FAIRFAX, Va. (AP) — U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly says a man with a baseball bat walked into his office in Fairfax, Virginia, asked for him — and then assaulted two members of his staff. It was the latest attack amid a sharp uptick in violence directed at lawmakers and their families.

State lawmakers focused on election processes during 2023 legislative session

Two years ago, Montana’s debate over election policy was already making a hard pivot from the legislative arena into the courts. Lawmakers had passed a string of bills directly impacting the voter experience, including ending Election Day registration, and opponents of those laws were gearing up for a lengthy legal battle that’s now before the Montana Supreme Court.

Biden proposal would let conservationists lease public land much as drillers and ranchers do

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — The Biden administration wants to put conserving vast government-owned lands on equal footing with oil drilling, livestock grazing and other interests, according to a top administration official who defended the idea against criticism that it would interfere with industry.

NYC skyscrapers turning to carbon capture to lessen climate change

The goal is to stop that climate-warming gas from entering the atmosphere. And there's a dire need for reducing emissions from skyscrapers like these in such a vertical city.

Europe's economic outlook brightens a little after avoiding recession. But inflation still squeezes

The outlook for the 20 countries using the euro currency improved to growth of 1.1% this year from 0.9% in February's predictions, the European Commission said in its spring forecast Monday.

Macron vows to build back factories, boost France's economy shaken by pension protests

It's a big challenge, as France reels from protracted protests, rising food and energy prices and other fallout from the Ukraine war.

How a Fed increase could affect credit card debt, auto loans

On Wednesday, the central bank boosted its benchmark rate by a quarter-point to 5.1%. Rates on credit cards, mortgages and auto loans, which have been surging since the Fed began raising rates last year, all stand to rise even more. The result will be more burdensome loan costs for both consumers and businesses.

Repelled by high car prices, Americans are holding on to their vehicles longer than ever

Americans are keeping their cars longer than ever. The average age of a passenger vehicle on U.S. roads hit a record 12.5 years this year, according to data gathered by S&P Global Mobility.

Legals for May, 15 2023

Whitefish City Council looks at revamp of landscape standards

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

Letters to the editor May 15

Letters to the editor May 15

Law roundup: Transient settles in for the night in gaga pit

A transient and their animals reportedly used a school’s gaga ball pit, an enclosed wooden structure, for their sleeping accommodations and someone requested extra patrol from Kalispell Police Department after finding garbage, vomit and animal feces.

Kalispell City Council to review public safety spending at Monday meeting

Kalispell City Council on Monday will vote on the final plat approval for a single-family housing development on the municipality’s north end and continue with its Fiscal Year 2024 budget deliberations.

Land stewardship focus of new Bob Marshall foundation director

Now, entering a new position as the executive director of the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation, Clifford Kipp reflects on a nearly 25-year-long career doing exactly that — helping people become stewards of the land.

C-Falls softball slugs way to 2 more wins

BUTTE — Haden Peters hit a home run in two games, Sydney Mann hit two homers in one game and Columbia Falls slugged its way to two more wins at the Laverne Combo softball tournament Saturday.

Charles Eugene McDowell, 69

Charles Eugene McDowell, 69

State biologists concerned about future of bull trout in Montana

According to a Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks study, trends show redd declines in around 50% of observed streams and tributaries. While the amount of redds in the other 50% is seemingly stable for now, the species’ overall numbers have decreased.

Former Casey's to house new restaurant in downtown Whitefish

This summer, the building, now called 101 Central, is set to have a new restaurant called Herb and Omni. In addition, there will be entertainment upstairs at the Second Story and a rooftop sky bar.

Art helps stroke survivors in healing process

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 600,000 people on average in the United States have a stroke for the first time every year. For so many, it means losing the ability to go through life as they did before.

Stanley Ray Stroisch, 71

Stanley Ray Stroisch, 71

Cherie Ann Fey Anderson, 86

Cherie Ann Fey Anderson

Delores Frances (Caluori) Schrage, 86

Delores Frances (Caluori) Schrage

Letters to the editor May 14

Letters to the editor May 14

Ballot flub costs more than taxpayer dollars

The West Valley School Board’s botched levy request this spring sowed mistrust and potentially long-lasting damages within the district west of Kalispell.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Glacier National Park volunteer bike patrol keeps cyclists safe

The bike patrollers are tasked with doling out park information, offering light mechanical and medical assistance, and reporting serious incidents to the park’s dispatch office by handheld radio.

Beverly Ann (Jenkins) Robison, 70

Beverly Ann (Jenkins) Robison, 70

Kalispell walk looks to support unsheltered veterans

The annual VA2K event features a 2-kilometer walk and roll and encourages people to live active lifestyles and support veterans who are unsheltered through voluntary donations of food and new clothing items.

Discover Kalispell celebrates travel industry during national week

There were 12.5 million nonresident visitors to Montana last year and nonresident visitors contributed more than $5.82 billion to Montana’s economy in 2022, including $315 million in state and local taxes.

Montana’s farmers and ranchers would bear the brunt of a federal asset tax

In his budget plan for the upcoming fiscal year, President Joe Biden proposed a federal tax on assets.

Yes, the United States is a Christian nation

The newest darling of the media, Missoula’s Rep. Zooey Zephyr, was recently quoted as saying that Christian nationalism represents a threat to democracy.

Legals for May, 14 2023

MSU teams 2nd at Big Sky, Hamilton named top athlete

GREELEY, Colo. — Montana State’s men and women finished second at the Big Sky Conference outdoor track and field championships Saturday. Senior Duncan Hamilton was second to none.

Todd, Wilde earn Big Sky titles for Griz

Evan Todd and Holly Sudol did what you probably expected, and picked half of the four individual Big Sky individual titles for the Griz Saturday.

Beverly Ming Twist, 82

Beverly Ming Twist, 82

PHOTOS: Flathead Valley Community College's Class of 2023 commencement ceremony

Flathead Valley Community College held its 55th commencement ceremony inside McClaren Hall at the Wachholz College Center on Friday, May 12. A total of 268 graduates were honored receiving 288 degrees and certificates.

Gianforte vetoes bipartisan child welfare and state hospital reforms

Gov. Greg Gianforte on Thursday vetoed some of the most significant reforms to child welfare and state mental health systems passed by the Legislature this year. The three bills, sponsored by Republicans and Democrats, surged through both chambers with broad bipartisan support.

Peters leads hot-hitting C-Falls to 2 wins

BUTTE — Haden Peters hit two homers in one game, hit a third bomb in another and Columbia Falls earned two wins at the Laverne Combo softball tournament Friday.

MSU's Perrin wins 2nd Big Sky 10,000 title

GREELEY, Colo. — Ben Perrin earned a big share of Montana State Bobcat track and field history Friday, and he wasn’t the only one.

Don't panic: N. Idaho's Silverwood opens for season

Vicky Richardson is going to be up this morning. And down. And then back up.

Glacier boys split Friday duals

Glacier’s netters wrapped up their regular season with a pair of Friday duals against Bozeman and Gallatin at FVCC.

Ronan hires Flathead grad Sherwood as boys coach

George Sherwood, a former standout athlete at Flathead High School who has been an assistant coach for three sports at Ronan, is the new head basketball coach for the Chiefs.

Vikings and Valkyries run off with 7-B crowns

Joseph Farrier won three events, Wyatt Johnson, Inga Turner, Madison Chappius and Emma Pouwers all doubled up, and the Vikings and Valkyries swept the District 7-B track and field titles Saturday.

Libby's O'Rourke sets his sights on space

Isaac O'Rourke, a 2021 Libby High School graduate and current student at Montana State University in Bozeman, attributes much of his success to hands-on classes he took in high school.

Planning board OK's child care center expansion

The Kalispell Planning Board recommended that a proposed child care center at Northridge Lutheran Church go ahead at its meeting Tuesday.

Woman's body found in Libby's Flower Creek

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a body in Flower Creek near the Libby Cemetery and Libby baseball and softball fields about 2:37 p.m., May 10.

Bozeman, Gallatin netters sweep Flathead

Flathead played host to the Gallatin and Bozeman tennis teams Friday at FVCC, which wrapped up regular season play. The visitors swept the hosts in both duals.

Gibbons no-hitter, Allen HRs fuel Wolfpack sweep

MISSOULA — Glacier’s Zoey Allen hit two 2-run home runs Thursday against Missoula Sentinel, and the second one was the difference in an 8-7 win over the Spartans in Western AA softball.

Wildkats finish third at Polson ABC meet

The Columbia Falls girls showed off some speed and strength Saturday, and took a solid third at the Nelson-Thomas ABC track and field meet.

McIntyre hits moonshot, Bulldogs beat Broncs 8-2

Whitefish beat Hamilton 8-2 Saturday at Memorial Field on the second day of the Sapa-Johnsrud Baseball Invitational.

Canceled election costs West Valley School

Canceling May’s mail ballot election at the eleventh hour because of an overlooked deadline cost the West Valley School about $3,183 and district trustees this week decided to forgo another attempt at running a levy this year.

Glacier's Sun Road opens to Avalanche Creek on Saturday

The Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park will open to Avalanche Creek for motor vehicles beginning Saturday morning.

Montana Supreme Court upholds ruling that allows some nurses to provide abortions

The Montana Supreme Court has upheld a lower court’s decision that allowed advanced practice registered nurses to legally provide abortions in the state.

Motorcycle clubs hold diaper drive

Christian Motorcyclists Association has been doing this for over 15 years.

Dylan Curtis McClain, 29

Dylan Curtis McClain, 29

Evan Curtis Krebsbach, 71

Evan Curtis Krebsbach

Kalispell resident crowned Miss Montana USA 2023

The 27-year-old Montana native works as the marketing manager for the Glacier Institute.

Parkinson’s Support Group walkathon planned May 20

The Flathead Valley Parkinson’s Support Group will host the Walk for Parkinson’s on May 20 in Creston.

Convicted killer sentenced to 80 years imprisonment

A jury found Zackary Matthew Maas guilty of deliberate homicide for the 2022 murder of Gabriel Wagoner in Kalispell following a four-day trial in March.

Legals for May, 12 2023

Michael’s gas station owners celebrate 25th anniversary

For 25 years, Michael and Sherri Hayes have owned the business located at the busy U.S. 2 and Meridian Road.

Law roundup: Shortcut leads to exchange of curse words

A homeowner told officers that a kid cut through his yard and jumped onto his work trailer.

Woman’s passion for music leads to earning college degree

Throughout much of her life, Mary Tirman was too busy to pursue a college education. Raising four children and running a business after her husband died, she put her efforts into supporting her family.

Man allegedly threatened school shooting in texts

Robert Arnold Brown, 36, faces a felony count of intimidation and a misdemeanor charge of assault with a bodily fluid. He was booked into the Flathead County Detention Center on May 9, according to jail records.

Krause skies out, Glacier sweeps Pack-Kat Dual

The weather had to be encouraging for the runners at the Dr. Mike Nicosia Cat-Pack track and field dual held Thursday.

Franklin tosses gem, Bravettes shut out Knights

Lacie Franklin tossed a complete game shutout to lead the Flathead Bravettes to a 4-0 victory over Western AA foe Missoula Hellgate Thursday at KidSport.

Accused squatter takes plea deal

A woman who told authorities that the house they allegedly caught her squatting in belonged to her has struck a plea deal with prosecutors.

FVCC’s class of 2023 will help change the world

Flathead Valley Community College will celebrate the class of 2023 at our 55th annual commencement on the FVCC campus in Kalispell on Friday, May 12.

Family Forestry Expo showcases forest landscapes

The weeklong event includes visits by fifth-grade students and wraps up on Saturday, May 13 when families are invited to share in expo activities from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Art education project results in mural at Kalispell's Russell School

Two local artists have been providing arts education at the school through the “Artist in Schools and Community Grant” from the Montana Arts Council.

Legals for May, 11 2023

2023 District music festival results

Northwest Montana’s student musicians showcased their talent at the District 1 Music Festival.

Classic comedy explores dynamics of an unlikely friendship

The play revolves around two friends, both separated from their wives and working through what that means for their identities, finances, friendships and dating lives.

Local organizations bring Paddling Film Festival to Whitefish

In a way to spread awareness about river safety, protecting the rivers and getting more kids out onto the water, the two nonprofit organizations are coming together to present the 18th annual Paddling Film Festival in Whitefish.

Arts and Entertainment Events

Arts and Entertainment Events

Keith Lee Allred, 88

Keith Lee Allred, 88

Hollensteiner wins thrice, Flathead rules Last Chance

This year’s Last Chance Triangular actually had four track and field teams, but that didn’t thin out the points for the Flathead Braves and Bravettes Thursday.

Pitfalls of political purity

A couple of months ago former Republican Gov. Marc Racicot was labeled a RINO and formally drummed out of the Montana Republican Party — this in the face of the fact that he was responsible for the election of President George W. Bush and was also a former chair of the national Republican Party.

Terri (Pope) Quinlivan, 63

Terri (Pope) Quinlivan

Missoula man pleads guilty to vehicular homicide charge

Bradley Keith Burgess, 37, entered the guilty plea before Judge Robert Allison in Flathead County District Court on May 9 after striking a deal with prosecutors. Allison set his sentencing for June 22.

Springtime fishing adventures

It’s springtime in Northwest Montana when a young man’s attention turns to fishing or at least something like that!

Suspect in camper theft pleads guilty

A Washington woman arrested last year after a Kalispell Police officer spotted her improperly hauling what turned out to be a stolen camper pleaded guilty to a pair of felony charges on Tuesday.

WTC holds summer performance camps

WTC is offering programs for all age groups, from first through 12th grades. The theater camps offer tools that promote self-confidence in a supportive, creative, and dynamic environment.

Legislature defends Montana’s foundational values

Recently, there have been attacks on the 68th Montana Legislature by the liberal media.

Ballet company brings ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ to the stage

The company’s 43rd spring production features the music of German composer Felix Mendelssohn, choreography by Roth, costumes by Katie Sako, backdrops by Linda Ensign and lighting by Rich Haptonstall.

Somers Middle School Theater showcases ‘Mary Poppins’

In its sixth season, Somers Middle School Theater presents the story illuminating one family’s struggle to bring out the best in one another.

Law roundup: Woman lurks in the shadows of playhouse

A strange woman with pink shoelaces was reportedly spotted by a daycare employee sitting in the shadows in the playhouse. Kalispell Police Department officers kicked her off the property.

Legion baseball: AA Lakers too much for Libby

LIBBY — Andre Cephers threw two sharp innings on the mound, had three hits and drove in three runs as the Kalispell AA Lakers downed Libby 17-3 in a non-conference Legion baseball game Wednesday.

Roster cutdown approaches for Range Riders

The 2023 Glacier Range Riders, on the way to Cutdown Day, gather at Flathead Field at 10 o’clock every morning. For five or so hours, they… do what, exactly?

Sydney Mann rising to the top on a loaded Columbia Falls softball team

Columbia Falls softball coach Dave Kehr has been at this a while — 26 years to be exact — and shortstop Sydney Mann ranks among the best he’s coached.

Family of missing hiker recounts harrowing weekend

The family of the hiker who went missing in Glacier National Park over the weekend say 19-year-old Matthew Read is recovering and receiving treatment after spending several days lost in the wilderness.

Judge rules Public Law 280 suit can move forward

The fate of Public Law 280 – the agreement between the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Lake County and the state of Montana that gives the county jurisdiction over felonies committed on the Flathead Reservation – remains in limbo.

Former Polson police chief pleads not guilty in drunk driving case

Jeremy Morigeau, attorney for former Polson Police Chief Wade Nash, entered a not-guilty plea to a DUI charge on behalf of his client on April 26 in Justice Court.

Signe Elenore Ueland Ferguson, 97

Signe Elenore Ueland Ferguson, 97

Kalispell man honored after organ donations save four people

Jacob Clayton loved mountain biking and was a “jack of all trades.”

Kalispell City Council takes first look at preliminary budget

Kalispell City Council discussed the municipality’s preliminary budget for fiscal year 2024 on Monday in the first of a series of work sessions on the proposed financial roadmap.

County Planning Board looks at subdivision near McGregor Lake

The county planning board meets at 6 p.m. in the South Campus Building at 40 11th St. W. in Kalispell.

Raymond Edward Scheulen, 77

Raymond Edward Scheulen, 77

Mary Ellen (Frost) Handford, 83

Mary Ellen (Frost) Handford, 83

Gianforte again pushes for aggressive approach to wildfires at fire briefing

Gov. Greg Gianforte asked state agencies Tuesday to prioritize forest management and aggressively attacking all wildfires while emphasizing firefighter safety ahead of the 2023 fire season.

Judge sentences Whitefish man accused of shooting at kayakers

Judge Amy Eddy handed the sentences down to 49-year-old Jeffrey Allen Smith in Flathead County District Court on April 27.

C-Falls man faces felony charge for allegedly firing handgun during confrontation

Matthew Hallas, 32, faces one count of assault with a weapon in Flathead County District Court following the April 29 showdown.

Law roundup: Neighbor gets front-row seat to man vs. landlord

Someone called the Kalispell Police Department to report their neighbor who was allegedly throwing stuff in the road when the landlord pulled up in a white van to intervene and the two got into a tussle.

Legals for May, 10 2023

Half Moon Fire subject of May 15 talk

The 1929 Half Moon Fire threatened Columbia Falls, and then raced into Glacier National Park, eventually scorching over 162 square miles.

Self-taught pizza chef hones craft of perfect pies

Nick Erickson, the owner and self-made pizza chef, said that upon opening the pizzeria, he had no previous restaurant experience.

Music School receives major donation for capital campaign

The music school is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching Montana communities through music education, appreciation, and performance by offering musical opportunities for all ages.

Former Frenchtown School District administrator selected as KPS interim superintendent

Randy Cline, a retired superintendent of Frenchtown School District, will serve in Kalispell Public Schools’ top position for the 2023-24 school year.

Wolfpack boys sweep Flathead

Tuesday’s rain showers held off long enough for Flathead and Glacier to complete the second and last crosstown tennis meeting of the season at FVCC.

Farrell, Allen, Goudette power pack over Polson

Ella Farrell hit two home runs, and Zoey Allen and Kenadie Goudette each hit one as Glacier’s softball squad made quick work of visiting Polson Tuesday, 15-0.

Robbins, Mann push Kats to 8th-inning win over Ronan

Sophie Robbins beat a force play at home for the go-ahead run and Sydney Mann capped a big eighth inning with a two-run single as Columbia Falls beat Ronan 7-3 in Northwest A softball Tuesday.

Tanner Russell helps Navy win rugby title

The Navy Midshipmen won its first Division I-A national rugby championship Saturday, rallying past Cal for a 28-22 victory, and Tanner Russell played no small part.

Transgender youth sue over Montana gender-affirming care ban

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Two transgender children, their parents and two health care providers filed a lawsuit Tuesday arguing that a Montana law that would ban gender-affirming care for transgender youth is unconstitutional.

Missing hiker rescued in Glacier National Park

Rescue crews located 19-year-old Matthew Read late last night after he spent multiple days missing in Glacier National Park.

Texas shooter's 'RWDS' patch linked to far-right extremists

The shooter who killed eight people at a Dallas-area mall was wearing a patch that read "RWDS" — short for "Right Wing Death Squad" — a phrase that has been embraced in recent years by far-right extremists who glorify violence against their political enemies.

Updated: Jury finds Trump liable for sexual abuse, awards accuser $5M

NEW YORK (AP) — A jury in New York City began deliberating Tuesday in the lawsuit brought by columnist E. Jean Carroll, who alleges that Donald Trump raped her in a luxury Manhattan department store in 1996.

Abortion clinics in 3 states sue to protect pill access

Abortion providers in three states filed a lawsuit Monday aimed at preserving access to the abortion pill mifepristone, even as the drug is threatened by a separate Texas lawsuit winding its way through U.S. court system.

Working with Legislature to fight crime in Kalispell

My top priority as Attorney General is the safety and security of Montana communities.

Kalispell Planning Board to consider proposed child care center

The Kalispell Planning Board will be considering Tuesday a request to open an early child care center that may eventually serve up to 100 young children.

Legals for May, 9 2023

Fifth Avenue West North closed again for repaving

Fifth Avenue West North between Center and Railroad streets in Kalispell is closed again to through traffic until Thursday while the street is repaved following an emergency water main relocation.

Law roundup: Hungry cows commit fowl misdeed

A Marion resident allegedly took issue with a neighbor’s cows regularly coming onto their property to eat chicken feed. They told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office that the cows killed a chicken weeks ago. The resident said the neighbor argued that the area was free range and that they would have to put up a fence.

Filings begin in municipal elections

Several candidates have filed for upcoming municipal elections in Flathead County.

Logging project paused because of grizzly bear concerns

Last week, U.S. District Court judge Dana Christensen halted a logging project in the Kootenai National Forest because of its potential to harm an already imperiled population of grizzly bears.

Zooey Zephyr criticizes GOP governance at Flathead Dems spring banquet

Rep. Zooey Zephyr, whose removal from the statehouse in April brought national attention to Montana, accused state Republicans of adopting an ends justify the means approach to governance at a gathering of the Flathead Democrats over the weekend.

Letters to the editor May 9

Letters to the editor May 9

Dylan Curtis McClain, 29

Dylan Curtis McClain, 29

Man accused of exposing himself at youth athletic complex held on parole violation

Officials with the Kalispell Police Department announced the arrest of David Scott Whitford, 26, of Kalispell on May 4.

Authorities searching for missing 19-year-old in Glacier National Park

Officials are searching for a missing 19-year-old man who was last seen near the trailhead of Huckleberry Lookout in Glacier National Park on Friday.

Bill sponsor pushes for veto override after Gianforte rejects popular marijuana tax bill

The sponsor of a popular initiative seeking to divvy up more than $50 million of marijuana tax revenue is requesting that lawmakers be given an opportunity to override a veto Gov. Greg Gianforte issued in the final hours of the 2023 legislative session.

Kalispell City Council to review proposed fiscal year 2024 budget

Kalispell City Council opens budget season on Monday with a first look at its proposed financial roadmap for the coming fiscal year.

Law roundup: Mischievous group of kids evade police

A gaggle of mischievous kids was allegedly smashing carts together and acting up in a store where an employee asked Kalispell Police Department officers to move them along.

Letters to the editor May 8

Letters to the editor May 8

Retiring Kalispell Police Chief reflects on law enforcement career

Growing up in nearby Seeley Lake and going to college in Missoula, Doug Overman found his calling to public service during the summer of his college years.

Legals for May, 8 2023

Dallas suburb mourns after 8 die in outlet mall shooting

Another American community mourned Sunday for lives lost to a mass shooting — this time at a Dallas-area outlet mall where a gunman stepped out of a sedan and opened fire on shoppers.

Valentine 'Val' Elizabeth Weisz, 94

Valentine “Val” Elizabeth Weisz, 94, passed away peacefully on Jan. 6, 2023, in the arms of her loving daughter Janice, where she had resided, along with Janice’s husband Allen, for the last seven years of her life.

Gary Morken, 81

Gary Morken, 81

Northwest Truck owner has longtime passion for working on vehicles

The Flathead Valley native is now only 33, but has already turned his automotive passions into two thriving businesses, with his recent acquisitions of Northwest Truck Repair and Northwest Fleet Services.

Sine Die: Legislature protects Montana’s next generation

The 68th session of the Montana Legislature is one that every Montanan can be proud of.

Montana Democrats deliver; Republicans waste session

The 68th session of the State Legislature has ended, but the harm done by a Republican supermajority drunk on power will continue to be felt for a long time.

Community council good for Lakeside

Following a seven-year hiatus, the Lakeside Community Council is back.

Sharon Ann (Stolte) Briggs, 77

Sharon Ann Briggs (Stolte), 77

Noemi Gomez Barta, 82

After battling pancreatic cancer for more than three years, Noemí Gomez Barta of Kalispell died April 11, with both family members and friends by her side.

New establishment focuses on historical brews

Other brews include Independence, the popular hazy New England IPA, Honor, a Kentucky common made with corn, Patriot, and D.T.O.M. (Don’t tread on me).

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

MWED looks to update economic strategy

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy is a five-year economic plan, and was last published in 2017.

Curiosity brings lives to light

The Great Falls native took off to teach in Shanghai motivated by the notion that “the world isn’t as scary as the nightly news makes it out to be.”

Letters to the editor May 7

Letters to the editor May 7

Lola Mae Stewart (Hartsoch) Emerson Vulles, 91

Lola Mae Stewart (Hartsoch) Emerson Vulles, 91

Alven Emil Krantz, 97

Alven Emil Krantz, 97

Supermajority power has led to corruption

“Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”

TurboTax customers to receive checks for $141M settlement

In a settlement agreement last year, TurboTax's owner Intuit Inc. was ordered to pay $141 million to low-income consumers who were deceived into paying TurboTax to file their federal returns — despite being eligible for free, federally-supported tax services.

Sacred Waters looks forward with new expansion

Sacred Waters Brewing Company was born out of Jordan Van Eimeren’s childhood memories of her family ranch in the Bob Marshall Wilderness which served as the base for people to experience world class fly fishing.

New restaurant expected to open this summer in Evergreen

Two Brothers Cafe, owned and operated by Nick and Esmeralda Aliu, is set to be open seven days per week from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Hooper’s founders prepare to hand over business to new owners

The couple has been searching for the perfect person to sell the business in order to ensure it goes to someone who wants to keep their hard work alive.

Roller derby skates to its return after three-year hiatus

Roller derby, a fast-paced, full-contact sport played on quad roller skates, has grown in popularity across the world. In the Flathead, though, it is also a community changer.

Evergreen students lead the way with pitches designed to improve their schools

In the Evergreen School District, we understand that student leadership is powerful, and for the past 10 years, we have been offering students opportunities with both voice and choice.

Couple devotes time to assisting veterans

The Ericksons, the founders of the Northwest Montana Veterans Food Pantry, have been in the valley for 45 years. Married since 1977, the pair has worked for decades to expand veteran care in the valley.

Evergreen security company protects the world

The security company handles the installation and maintenance of hundreds of security systems for critical infrastructures around the world.

Alan K. Fitzsimmons, 66

Alan K. Fitzsimmons, 66

Livestock industry’s war on wildlife at Montana Legislature

At Gov. Greg Gianforte’s behest, the Montana Legislature's anti-wildlife bias was on full display this session.

April hiring gains reflect a still-resilient US job market

The unemployment rate dipped to 3.4%, matching a 54-year low, the Labor Department said Friday.

Don Alan Hollis, 67

Don Alan Hollis

Faster IRS offering better picture on looming debt 'X-date'

The funding increase has helped the agency to catch up on processing new and backlogged tax returns.

Law roundup: Red-headed panhandler terrifies woman

A woman with red hair, who was allegedly panhandling, “terrified” a man’s wife when she went over to their vehicle and knocked on his window.

Legals for May, 7 2023

Lois Lorraine Krause, 83

Lois Lorraine Krause, 83

A. Jeanine Pederson, 89

A. Jeanine Pederson, 89

Pack suffers first loss, bounces back on Bruins

It took 12 games for an opponent to get the best of Glacier, and Helena High needed to match Glacier’s usual late-game heroics to pull it off.

Wolfpack, Bravettes win rainy Roe titles

The 44th Archie Roe Invitational track and field meet was going to get run, rain or shine. You know which thing happened Saturday.

Feisty Bravettes drop pair in Helena

The Flathead Bravettes pitched tough one game, but their bats didn’t warm up enough in losses to Helena Capital and Helena High Saturday.

Homebuyers to face steep borrowing costs despite Fed move

Homebuyers are likely to face steep borrowing costs despite signals from the Federal Reserve that it may be ready to pause a yearlong campaign of rate hikes.

Charles III crowned in ancient rite at Westminster Abbey

LONDON (AP) — King Charles III was crowned Saturday at Westminster Abbey, receiving the bejeweled St. Edward's Crown in a ceremony built on ancient tradition at a time when the monarchy is striving to remain relevant in a fractured modern Britain.

PHOTOS: Montana Spartan Trifecta 2023

Scenes from the Montana Spartan Trifecta in Bigfork on Saturday, May 6.

Montana Passes Significant Health Policy Changes in Controversial Session

Republican leaders’ banishment of a transgender lawmaker from floor debates in the recently ended Montana legislative session seized the nation’s attention. It also overshadowed significant health policy changes and historic levels of health care spending.

Biker arrested for high-speed chase, drug possession pleads not guilty

Ryan Daniel Mills, 38, appeared before Judge Robert Allison in Flathead County District Court for his arraignment on either the felony drug possession charge or a felony criminal endangerment charge, according to court records.

New Libby Police chief sworn in

It’s official: Cody Ercanbrack is the new Libby chief of police.

Mission student's ledger art selected to hang in Congress

Cedar Hunt's recent painting, “Girl on Horse,” won the Congressional Art Competition for Montana’s First Congressional District, represented by U.S. Congressman Ryan Zinke, and will hang in the halls of Congress for the coming year.

Glacier's Sun Road opens to Lake McDonald Lodge

A portion of Going-to-the-Sun Road opened to vehicles on the west side of Glacier Park on Friday morning. Visitors can now drive as far as Lake McDonald Lodge.

Stock market today: Apple-juiced rally closes bruising week

The S&P 500 jumped 1.8%, though it still turned in a modest loss for the week that was its worst in nearly two months. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 546 points, or 1.7%, while the Nasdaq composite rallied 2.2%.

Montana to ban foreign adversaries from buying property

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana has become the latest state to regulate the ownership of assets by foreign adversaries.

Whitefish Community Foundation awards grants at May 18 event

Whitefish Community Foundation invites the public to its annual Community Grants Award Celebration on May 18 at the O’Shaughnessy Center in downtown Whitefish.

UM to celebrate graduates at May 13 commencements

The University of Montana will celebrate the over 2,000 graduates who make up the class of 2023 during its spring Commencement celebrations on Saturday, May 13.

WHO downgrades COVID pandemic, says it's no longer emergency

GENEVA (AP) — The World Health Organization said Friday that COVID-19 no longer qualifies as a global emergency, marking a symbolic end to the devastating coronavirus pandemic that triggered once-unthinkable lockdowns, upended economies and killed millions of people worldwide.

Daines, Tester spearhead legislation to ease banking restrictions on cannabis industry

Montana Sen. Steve Daines helped reintroduce the Secure and Fair Enforcement Banking Act into the Senate this week in an effort to allow legal cannabis businesses to access banks, credit unions and other financial institutions.

Judge issues restraining order against new abortion requirement

A Lewis and Clark County District judge has granted a temporary restraining order blocking the state from allowing a newly signed abortion restriction law from being enforced until after a hearing because the law is likely a violation of the Montana Constitution.

Andy L. Leighty, 79

Andy L. Leighty

Law roundup: Trashy neighbor’s mess includes drugs

A caller told authorities they saw a drunk man hop into a green Subaru station wagon festooned with Bernie Sanders stickers and drive off.

State agriculture director tours Bigfork distillery

The distillery has been producing spirits, including whiskey, gin, vodka and rum, since 2010, making it the oldest continually operating distillation operation in the state.

Legals for May, 5 2023

Community members take up zoning effort in Lakeside

Galvanized by a controversial development that is nearing completion despite deep community opposition — owing in part to a lack of regulations — Lakeside residents are attempting to zone a portion of the unincorporated town and surrounding residential areas.

Kalispell Public Schools to interview interim superintendent candidates

Kalispell Public Schools board of trustees unanimously selected three candidates to interview for the interim superintendent position on Tuesday.

Kalispell FFA competitors advance to nationals

The Kalispell FFA agronomy team and three individual state champions have advanced to the National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis in November.

Francom stepping down as Troy Schools superintendent

Troy Junior and Senior High School Superintendent Jacob Francom announced his resignation last week.

Five Wildcat soccer players sign to play in college

Five members of the 2022 State A champion Columbia Falls Wildcats soccer team signed letters of intent to play in college on Thursday.

Spartans rack up 16 hits, upend Bravettes

Haley Wolsky had four hits, including two doubles, and scored four times for Missoula Sentinel Thursday as the Spartans upended Flathead 14-3 in a Western AA softball game at KidSport.

C-Falls sweeps Libby, Ronan in tennis duals

Saturday’s expected wet weather moved up a couple of tennis duals for Columbia Falls, who played host to Ronan and Libby Thursday.

Farrell’s double in 9th keeps Pack unbeaten

Ella Farrell allowed four hits in nine innings, then clouted a bases-clearing double to help Glacier stay unbeaten Thursday, with a 6-3 extra-inning win over Missoula Big Sky.

Skye Thompson lands UM President’s Award

Flathead High graduate and Montana soccer player Skyleigh Thompson is one of four recipients of the President’s Award for the top overall GPAs in Grizzly athletics this year.

Bulldog boys top Libby in tennis dual

The Bulldogs put in a solid effort Thursday, defeating Northwest A foe Libby in a tennis dual 6-1.

Mexican citizen arrested in Kalispell with 12,000 fentanyl pills enters guilty plea

Cuauhternoc Cervantes Samaniego, 30, faces between five and 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and a minimum of four years of supervised release.

Columbia Falls zone change request put on hold

A Florida developer’s request for a zone change in Columbia Falls has been put on hold again.

Kalispell's Fifth Avenue WN closed again for water main work

The ongoing redevelopment of Kalispell’s historic grain silos property into apartments and a restaurant has once again closed a busy stretch of Fifth Avenue West North for what municipal officials describe as the second phase of an “emergency water main relocation.”

Prescribed fire planned north of Whitefish

Smoke will be visible this week from a prescribed fire north of Whitefish.

Ex-Proud Boys leader Tarrio guilty of Jan. 6 sedition plot

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio was convicted on Thursday of orchestrating a plot for members of his far-right extremist group to attack the U.S. Capitol in a desperate bid to keep Donald Trump in power after the Republican lost the 2020 presidential election.

Law roundup: Man asks for help repossessing car

A man trying to get possession of a vehicle he claimed as his contacted the Kalispell Police Department for help.

Traffic stop leads to capture of man allegedly involved in high-speed chase

Prosecutors filed felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs and criminal endangerment charges against Ryan Daniel Mills, 38, in Flathead County District Court following his May 1 arrest.

‘The Continuum Tales’ explore weird, futuristic and haunted worlds

In the spirit of “The Twilight Zone” and “Black Mirror,” the Wolfpack Theatre Company’s Advanced Acting Ensemble presents “The Continuum Tales” Monday and Wednesday at Glacier High School.

Northwest Ballet Company dances through ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ in its annual spring production

The Northwest Ballet Company will take audiences on a delightful — and humorous — journey filled with fairy magic and love in Shakespeare’s popular comedy, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.”

Lakeside elects new community council

Residents of the unincorporated town of Lakeside elected a group to represent them in planning and zoning decisions after all previous members resigned from the Lakeside Community Council in 2016.

Book series comes to the stage in ‘The Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad Treasure Hunt’

When a one-eyed buccaneer gives you a treasure map, what other choice is there than to seek adventure?

Legals for May, 4 2023

Cut red tape with a regulatory sandbox

It’s not easy to be an innovative business in Montana.

City urges people to report panhandling violations

An ordinance banning transfers of property between motor vehicles and pedestrians on Kalispell roadways went into effect Wednesday, according to an announcement by the city clerk’s office.

Country Music Hall of Famer Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives stop in Kalispell on ‘Altitude’ tour

With his first new album in six years, Country Music Hall of Famer Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives are stopping in Kalispell on their Altitude tour.

Governor signs bill boosting block management payment cap

Gov. Greg Gianforte signed into law last week a bill that will double the payment cap for landowners who participate in Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ Block Management Program.

Artist Linda Olsen featured at the Phillips Gallery

The exhibit brings together the artist’s collection of her recent plein air works featuring familiar scenes throughout the valley and Glacier National Park.

WTC presents clever comedy about life

A clever comedy about life and big questions, “The Harry and Sam Dialogues” has performances on May 6 and 7.

Arts and Entertainment Events

Contra dance; Cawdrey Gallery features artist Elizabeth Butler; First Saturday at Ninepipes Museum; Libby museum opens for season

Bill prohibiting transgender health care a mistake for Montana

A bill to prohibit critical health care for transgender Montana youth was just signed by Gov. Greg Gianforte.

Flathead Warming Center concludes record season

The Flathead Warming Center closed its overnight shelter operations Sunday, wrapping up its busiest winter season ever, one where it served more than 350 people.

Letters to the editor May 4

Letters to the editor May 4

Fiber artist to be featured at Paint, Metal & Mud Mother’s Day social

Fiber artist Maureen Louden will be the featured artist at Paint, Metal & Mud’s Mother’s Day social planned from 5-8 p.m. Friday, May 12, at the gallery in downtown Kalispell.

Fast start, 8 letters, many 400s

You can make a case for Peyton Walker being the fastest of the Walker triplets, since she arrived in this world one minute before Jackson and two minutes ahead of Robert.

A heart ailment sidelined Glacier’s Jeff Lillard a year ago; now he’s faster than ever

Jeff Lillard chugged through the turn during the 200 meters of last April’s Swede Dahlberg Invitational and came across the tap in 23.93 seconds, which for most of us is plenty fast.

Whitefish boys sweep Columbia Falls

The Whitefish boys swept Columbia Falls in a Northwest A tennis dual on Tuesday. “I'm really happy with where we are right now,” Whitefish coach Chris Schwaderer said.

Montana governor signs abortion bills, will sign others

Montana's Republican-controlled Legislature passed several bills related to abortion access, and Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte signed five of them Wednesday, including one that will likely lead the state Supreme Court to reconsider its nearly 25-year-old decision that supports the right to a pre-viability abortion by a provider of the patient's choice.

68th Montana Legislature adjourns

With the 90th and last possible legislative day looming, the lawmakers, staff, lobbyists, reporters and other denizens of the Montana Capitol this week knew that the end of the 68th Legislature was nigh.

Motorcyclist dies after hitting cow in Lake County

A 59-year-old Ronan motorcyclist died May 3 after he struck a cow in Lake County.

2023 school election results: Kalispell levy requests a mixed bag

Tuesday's school elections concluded at 8 p.m. Tuesday. The Daily Inter Lake is posting unofficial results as they become available.

Recreational marijuana tax bill headed to Gov. Gianforte’s desk

After passing its final legislative vote 49-1, a bill seeking to adjust how $50 million of recreational marijuana taxes are distributed is headed to Gov. Greg Gianforte’s desk for his consideration.

Track: Bravettes, Braves excel in Missoula

MISSOULA — Flathead’s Bravettes piled up the wins again Tuesday, while the Braves showed off some speed and hops at a triangular track and field meet at MCPS Stadium.

Legals for May, 3 2023

Conrad Lovell O'Master, 85

Conrad Lovell O'Master, 85

Accused drug dealer brought up on bail jumping charge

Jeffrey Duane Portmann, 54, of Spokane, Washington was scheduled to appear before Judge Dan Wilson in Flathead County District Court on March 4, 2020 for a pretrial conference on a felony criminal distribution of dangerous drugs charge, but never appeared, according to court records.

Law roundup: Restaurateur suspects people are patronizing more than the food

Authorities left a calling card at the home of a dog that had barked for three hours straight.

Banning short-term rentals won’t fix the housing crisis

When my husband and I bought a beautiful home along the Kootenai River in his hometown of Libby a few years ago, our intent was to sell our landscaping company in Post Falls, Idaho, retire early and move there.

Montana's Congressional delegation celebrates lifting of border vaccine requirements

The U.S. will no longer require that Canadians heading south across the border be vaccinated against Covid-19, beginning at midnight May 12.

Letters to the editor May 3

Letters to the editor May 3

Kalispell City Council agrees to sponsor grant applications for mobile home communities

Kalispell City Council voted Monday to sponsor grant applications for two resident-owned mobile home communities seeking federal funding to connect the properties to the municipality’s sewer system.

County animal shelter waives fee to encourage adoptions after reaching capacity

Flathead County Public Information Officer Kim Grieser said in an email the shelter has been teetering on reaching capacity for a while. It’s a no-kill shelter, and currently has 42 dogs with no open kennels.

Man arrested following chase, standoff

Hayes Goggles III, 36, faces one count of felony criminal endangerment in Flathead County District Court following his April 28 arrest.

Moultray hits for cycle as Wildkats top Browning

Maddie Moultray hit for the cycle to back her own pitching Tuesday, leading the Columbia Falls Wildkats over Northwest A foe Browning 25-0.

Whitefish netters top Wildkats

The Whitefish girls won three doubles matches to top Columbia Falls 4-3 in a Northwest A tennis dual on Tuesday.

Glacier-Sentinel softball postponed by storm

Tuesday’s Western AA softball game between visiting Glacier and Missoula Sentinel was postponed by a thunderstorm that rumbled over Missoula shortly after gametime.

Judge rejects Zooey Zephyr effort to return to Montana House

Zooey Zephyr, the transgender Montana lawmaker who was silenced after telling Republicans they would have blood on their hands for opposing gender-affirming health care for kids, cannot return to the statehouse House floor and participate in debate, a judge ruled Tuesday.

Bear gives West Virginia principal a roaring wake-up call

A black bear gave a West Virginia principal quite the wake-up call when it emerged — growling and roaring — from a dumpster outside an elementary school.

Man accused of exposing himself at Kidsports Complex

Authorities in Kalispell are calling on the public for help in tracking down a man accused of exposing himself at the Kidsports Complex over the weekend.

Rivers rise amid record spring heat wave

Area streams and rivers are expected to surge this week as record high spring temperatures bake the Northern Rockies for a few more days.

Biden admin asks for 1,500 troops at US-Mexico border

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration has requested 1,500 troops for the U.S.-Mexico border amid an expected migrant surge following the end of pandemic-era restrictions, according to three administration officials.

Senate confirms University of Montana professor Johnstone for 9th circuit

University of Montana constitutional scholar and law professor Anthony Johnstone was confirmed Monday to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals by the U.S. Senate.

Rule requiring prior OK for Medicaid-paid abortions halted

HELENA (AP) — A judge in Montana temporarily blocked a new rule Monday that would have required physicians in the state to provide prior documentation showing that an abortion is medically necessary before the state's Medicaid program will authorize payment for the procedure.

Folk singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot dies at 84

TORONTO (AP) — Gordon Lightfoot, the folk singer-songwriter known for "If You Could Read My Mind" and "Sundown" and for songs that told tales of Canadian identity, died Monday. He was 84.

County board considers request for church on Airport Road

The Flathead County Board of Adjustment on Tuesday will consider whether a church can be constructed along Airport Road south of Kalispell.

Legals for May, 2 2023

Senate revives, and advances, charter school bills

Two days after rejecting a pair of charter school proposals, the Montana Senate revived both on Friday, passing the bills on nearly identical preliminary votes and breathing new life into one of the session’s biggest education policy debates.

Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes join in call for Canadian action against selenium

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, alongside 10 other tribal nations, has sent a letter to the Canadian government asking it to address mining in British Columbia because of the harm they say it is causing on indigenous lands in Montana and other border states.

TikTok a valuable tool for students

I am worried, and you should be too.

Letters to the editor May 2

Letters to the editor May 2

Law roundup: Driver’s recklessness ‘homicidal’

An Escalade allegedly “trying to make bad passes” cut off a vehicle whose driver described the person’s recklessness as “homicidal” to Whitefish Police Department.

Abortion clinics sue state over new restrictions on Medicaid coverage

Montana abortion providers on Friday sued the state health department in an attempt to block a new rule adopted by the Gianforte administration’s health department that restricts how the state will pay for abortions through its Medicaid program.

Montana Rep. Zooey Zephyr sues over removal from House floor

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana state Rep. Zooey Zephyr asked a court Monday to allow for her return to the House floor after she was silenced and barred for chiding her Republican colleagues over legislation to restrict gender-affirming health care and for encouraging protesters.

First Republic Bank seized, sold in fire sale to JPMorgan

NEW YORK (AP) — Regulators seized troubled First Republic Bank early Monday, making it the second-largest bank failure in U.S. history, and promptly sold all of its deposits and most of its assets to JPMorgan Chase in a bid to end the turmoil that has raised questions about the health of the U.S. banking system.

Facing revolt, GOP spares ethanol in drive to cut spending

House Republicans are touting their debt limit package as a first step toward fiscal restraint. They say it's past time for Congress to reduce the swelling deficits that they say are threatening the fiscal health of the country.

Europe's economy barely grows as inflation pinches consumers

Friday's less-than-stellar increase of 0.1% from the previous quarter follows disappointing growth estimates from the U.S., which kept alive fears of a looming recession in the world's largest economy.

Stock market today: Wall Street rises to cap a winning April

The S&P 500 rose 34.13, or 0.8%, to 4,169.48. Despite some sharp swings this week, it still clinched a second straight winning month.

Inflation pressures remain persistent as consumers pull back

An index that is closely followed by the Fed, which excludes volatile food and energy costs to capture "core" inflation, rose 0.3% from February to March and 4.6% from a year earlier, according to a report Friday from the Commerce Department.

Kalispell City Council to consider signing off on mobile home communities' grant applications

Kalispell City Council will vote to sign off on applications from two mobile home communities for federal funding to connect their properties to the municipality’s sewer system at its Monday meeting.

Law roundup: Goats go wild, harass man and eat screen

Two goats running wild purportedly tried to attack a man in Kalispell. The man

Whitefish looks to rezone gateway property

The approximately 11-acre property, recently annexed into the city, is located at the northwestern portion of the U.S. 93 and Montana 40 intersection.

Cold water plunge at center of veterans’ goal to assist others

Luke Opp and Craig Mayville, both Marine veterans, are now honoring the memory of that sacrifice with a nonprofit called The Frozen Chosen.

Legals for May, 1 2023

Letters to the editor May 1

Letters to the editor May 1