Ellington

Montana miner backs off expansion plans, lays off 100 due to lower palladium prices

The owner of two precious metals mines in south-central Montana is stopping work on an expansion project and laying off about 100 workers because the price of palladium fell sharply in the past year, mine representatives said Thursday.

Montana's first-in-the-nation ban on TikTok blocked by judge who says it's unconstitutional

Montana's first-in-the-nation law banning the video-sharing app TikTok in the state was blocked Thursday, one month before it was set to take effect, by a federal judge who called the measure unconstitutional.

Winter storm to bury mountain passes this weekend

A round of winter weather will create tricky travel conditions across Western Montana beginning Friday through the weekend.

Fuel Fitness shooter sentenced to 170 years

The assailant in a deadly 2021 shooting of a gym employee outside of Fuel Fitness in Kalispell was sentenced Thursday to 170 years in state prison.

Global leaders pay tribute to Henry Kissinger, but his record also draws criticism

TOKYO (AP) — Global leaders paid tribute to former U.S. Secretary of State Henry Kissinger on Thursday, but there was also sharp criticism of the man who remained an influential figure decades after his official service as one of the most powerful diplomats in American history.

Arts and Entertainment Events

Happenings in arts and entertainment

Lake County reaches settlement in jail lawsuit

Agreement promises more beds, outdoor recreation space

The federal court in Missoula gave final approval Nov. 21 to a settlement between the inmates of Lake County Jail and jail administrators.

Law roundup: A prankster got him gouda

Gee whiz, a customer must have thought as he left a store to find his car covered in Cheez Whiz. He phoned in the possible queso criminal mischief to the Kalispell Police Department, but had places to go. Store employees agreed to scrounge up surveillance footage of the parking lot in the meantime.

Gov must practice what he preaches

The Montana Supreme Court clarified the state’s ability to accrue “banked mills” when the calculation required under Monana code 15-10-420 results in mills above the cumulative cap of 95.

MSU's Lexi Deden out for season

BOZEMAN — Montana State senior standout Lexi Deden has been lost for the season following a knee injury sustained in the fourth quarter of MSU’s contest against James Madison at the Riveria Maya, Mexico, Convention Center last Friday.

The Long Goodbye

Eureka's Garrett Graves closed out a long Griz career

For many college football players, including those that matriculate through the University of Montana, there is a common refrain: I blinked, and it was over. Garrett Graves is not one of those players.

Work together for change

Many years ago, I worked with Bill Lincoln, Bill Sutton, Tony Dawson, Mark Agather and a few other folks on a high school committee. At that time, we had only one (bulging at the seams) high school in Kalispell.

Legals for November, 30 2023

Festivities get the holiday season rolling in the Flathead Valley

Holiday festivities kick off this weekend for the Flathead Valley.

Snoozing on the job

Our general rifle season for deer and elk ended last Sunday. If you are like me, after many days of hunting starting in September, first for grouse, then archery hunting for deer and elk, then ducks & pheasants and many other game species, you may be ready to spend some time at home catching up on home chores and watching some football on TV.

'Whitefish Review' presents author David James Duncan

"Whitefish Review" will host author David James Duncan for a reading and conversation about his newly released book, “Sun House,” on Thursday, Dec. 7 at 101 Central in downtown Whitefish.

Residents, advocates lobby Whitefish City Council to crack down on illegal short-term rentals

More than a dozen people clad in yellow T-shirts marched around the entrance to Whitefish City Hall last week before calling on City Council to crack down on illegal short-term rentals in the municipality.

What really affects hunting in the West

A disgruntled hunter wrote a Writers on the Range opinion recently about Westerners getting fed up with the many out-of-staters coming in and buying up draw licenses to shoot bull elk, deer, bear and other big game animals.

Ensemble known for defying conventions set to perform at Wachholz

Grammy and Emmy-winning ensemble, Time For Three defies convention and boundaries by showcasing excellence across different genres, including classical music, Americana, and singer-songwriter.

Concert features Christmas Carols at the Conrad Mansion

Guests are invited to sit in the Great Hall of the festively decorated Conrad Mansion and enjoy traditional Christmas carols sung by the Valley Voices Community Choir. The choir will sing for approximately 60 minutes.

Gallery exhibit features small works

Oberling enjoys plein air painting where his instincts take over and allow him to just paint and feel the environment.

Young activists who won Montana climate case want to stop power plant on Yellowstone River

Fresh off a legal victory earlier this year in a landmark climate change case, a group of young environmental activists is trying to persuade the Montana Supreme Court to stop a natural gas power plant that's being built on the banks of the Yellowstone River.

Northwest Montana hunters challenged by low snowfall

Scant snowfall presented Northwest Montana hunters with challenging conditions during the general rifle season, with harvest totals finishing slightly lower compared to last fall.

Opponents want judge to declare Montana drag reading ban unconstitutional without requiring a trial

HELENA (AP) — A group of people, organizations and businesses opposed to a law that restricts drag performances and bans drag reading events at public schools and libraries asked a federal judge to declare Montana's law unconstitutional without requiring a trial.

US moves to protect wolverines as climate change melts their mountain refuges, threatens extinction

BILLINGS (AP) — The North American wolverine will receive long-delayed threatened species protections under a Biden administration proposal released Wednesday in response to scientists warning that climate change will likely melt away the rare species' snowy mountain refuges and push them toward extinction.

Roger Alan Hoffman, 75

Roger Alan Hoffman, 75, passed away on Nov. 3, 2023, in Surprise, Arizona. He was born on March 19, 1948, in Austin, Minnesota.

Lydia Eastburn, 82

Lydia Ann Eastburn, M.D., 82, died Nov. 1, 2023.

Keim, Presley are MVPs; 13 Wolfpack first-team All-State

Flathead soph Griffin is first-team corner

Isaac Keim and Jackson Presley swept the Western AA MVP awards, and were two of 13 members of the Glacier Wolfpack to be named first-team All-State for AA.

Mary Jo "Mitzi" Rice, 68

Mary Jo “Mitzi” Rice, 68, passed away in her sleep on Nov. 25, 2023, in Fort Collins, Colorado, where she and husband Dixon spent Thanksgiving with their oldest son, Devin.

Law roundup: Man looking to reconnect with ex meets police instead

Employing his car horn rather than a boombox blasting Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes,” an ex-boyfriend showed up at his former flame’s home looking to speak with her.

Gianforte kicks off giving campaign at Clear Choice Clinic

Gov. Greg Gianforte reaffirmed his support for anti-abortion institutions on the first day of his 12 Days of Giving campaign with a more than $20,000 donation to Clear Choice Clinic in Kalispell on Nov. 28.

Mike Wayne Cotton, 74

Mike Wayne Cotton, 74, passed away on Nov. 19, 2023, at Logan Health Medical Center.

Whitefish dealership donates to East Evergreen Elementary

Whitefish dealership Don “K” donated $2,700 to East Evergreen Elementary School last week as part of the Subaru Loves Learning month campaign.

Standoff leads to 3rd felony case against Kalispell man

A Kalispell man with two felony cases pending in Flathead County District Court saw fresh charges brought against him last week after allegedly shooting indiscriminately outside his Cedar Mill Road home.

Accused roadside robber pleads guilty to criminal endangerment

One of two men accused of holding up a motorist on Browns Meadow Road by gunpoint in March has pleaded guilty to a felony charge in Flathead County District Court.

Alliance receives grant to increase ADA accessibility on Flathead River

Flathead Rivers Alliance has received a $30,411 grant to help fund its effort to improve American Disability Act (ADA) accessibility on the Flathead River.

Immanuel Lutheran Communities pitches 40-unit expansion at Buffalo Hill campus

Immanuel Lutheran Communities is moving to expand its Buffalo Hill Terrace community to meet what the nonprofit sees as a growing demand for maintenance-free senior living in Northwest Montana.

Former Blackfeet operations manager pleads not guilty in tribal theft case

A former operations manager for the Blackfeet Tribe pleaded not guilty Tuesday to charges accusing him of stealing thousands in Covid-19 relief funds from the tribe.

Legals for November, 29 2023

FVCC logger sports team recognized for excellence

Flathead Valley Community College’s logger sports team captain Seth Buckman received the Montana Athletes in Service Award from Montana Campus Compact at the recent 122nd Brawl of the Wild Griz-Cat football game in Missoula.

Pioneer League baseball expanding to Oakland

They will call themselves the Oakland B's, short for Ballers.

US agency to end use of 'cyanide bomb' to kill coyotes and other predators, citing safety concerns

RENO, Nev. (AP) — The U.S. Bureau of Land Management has halted the use of spring-loaded traps that disperse cyanide powder to kill coyotes and other livestock predators, a practice wildlife advocates have tried to outlaw for decades due to safety concerns.

Prosecutors charge Lakeside shooting suspect with attempted murder

The victim in last week’s shooting in Lakeside told authorities that Luke Elliot Rutledge began yelling at him shortly before opening fire from about 6 feet away, according to documents newly filed in Flathead County District Court.

Montana Freedom Caucus asks for poll of Legislature for special session on taxes

The Montana Freedom Caucus on Monday asked the Secretary of State to poll legislators in an attempt to force a special session of the Legislature – in part to address the statewide increase in property taxes that lawmakers failed to address this past spring.

Hunter Biden tells Congress he'll testify publicly, setting up a potential high-stakes face-off

WASHINGTON (AP) — Hunter Biden offered Tuesday to testify publicly before Congress, striking a defiant note in response to a subpoena from Republicans and setting up a potential high-stakes face-off even as a separate special counsel probe unfolds and his father, President Joe Biden, campaigns for reelection.

Montana man intends to plead guilty to threatening US Sen. Jon Tester

BILLINGS (AP) — A Montana man intends to plead guilty to threatening to kill Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester under the terms of a deal filed Monday by federal prosecutors.

Letters to the editor Nov. 28

Letters to the editor Nov. 28

Legals for November, 28 2023

Drunk driver charged for fatal collision given 18 months in jail

The motorist accused of drunkenly striking and killing a 21-year-old man near Columbia Falls in March has been sentenced to 18 months in the Flathead County Detention Center.

Law roundup: Job seeker details bad interview experience

A job seeker’s bad experience en route to an interview at a local business prompted a phone call to the Kalispell Police Department. Officers listened while he described what he considered a rude encounter and gave him some advice going forward.

Teen accused of wielding brass knuckles in fight pleads not guilty

A 19-year-old accused of beating a teenager with brass knuckles in September pleaded not guilty to a felony charge in Flathead County District Court earlier this month.

Where will the additional tax funds go?

I appreciated my time spent on this 95 mill property tax issue with you, the Department of Revenue and the lobbyist for the school organizations.

Prosecutors charge driver accused of striking deputies’ vehicles with multiple felonies

A Kalispell man accused of ramming law enforcement vehicles while evading authorities near Martin City in October is facing multiple charges in Flathead County District Court.

Idaho asks Supreme Court to allow enforcement of state abortion ban

WASHINGTON — Idaho asked the Supreme Court on Monday to allow enforcement of the state's abortion ban when it comes to emergency rooms, which federal courts blocked in a legal challenge from the Biden administration.

Lakeside shooting suspect held on pending attempted murder charge

A Kalispell man is behind bars on a pending attempted deliberate homicide charge after allegedly shooting at a man in a parked vehicle outside of a Lakeside business Nov. 24.

Law roundup: Tools of the trade might be stolen

A man allegedly received a phone call from someone who said they bought tools from a man at a storage unit facility and noticed that many of the tools, which included a jackknife, belonged to him.

Letters to the editor Nov. 27

Letters to the editor Nov. 27

Legals for November, 27 2023

Hamas releases third group of hostages as part of truce

The fragile cease-fire between Israel and Hamas was back on track Sunday as the militants freed 17 more hostages, including 14 Israelis and the first American, in a third exchange under a four-day truce that the U.S. said it hoped would be extended. In turn, Israel released 39 Palestinian prisoners.

Stakeholders weigh in on Glacier’s reservation system changes

Stakeholders and some previous critics of Glacier National Park’s vehicle reservation system are largely in favor of new changes coming next summer.

Lois Barbara Nathe-Hammett, 91

The forever 18-year-old spirit of Lois Barbara Nathe-Hammett exited her exhausted 91-year-old body, at home as she wished, on the morning of Nov. 14, 2023.

Give, and give wisely

From 2023’s Giving Tuesday until midnight, Dec. 31, donors will be more generous than at any other time of year. An estimated 25-30% of annual nonprofit revenue will come in.

Sandra 'Sandy' Zontek, 82

Our mother, sister, and grandmother, Sandra “Sandy” Zontek, passed away on Nov. 11, 2023, surrounded by family, after a long struggle with rheumatoid arthritis and related complications.

Betty Geraldine 'Gerry' McHenry, 98

Betty Geraldine "Gerry" McHenry, 98, passed away peacefully on Nov. 15, 2023, at her lifelong home in Kalispell, Montana.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Law Roundup: Officers zap abandoned appliance

A microwave discarded near a house was cause for concern. It had been there all weekend and the caller was worried it might have fentanyl inside of it. Officers disposed of the suspect appliance.

Norma June Hornbacher, 82

On Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, Norma June Hornbacher passed away after a brief illness, she was 82.

Legals for November, 26 2023

Legals for November, 26 2023

License fees for Montana teachers slated to increase

For the first time in three decades, the price Montana charges public school teachers and other education professionals for state-issued licenses is set to increase.

Authentic Mexican market opens in Kalispell

Besides Bozeman and Billings, Kalispell is now one of the few cities in Montana to offer authentic Mexican products

Letters to the editor Nov. 26

Letters to the editor Nov. 26

Artist sees ‘Bleu Horses’ as gift to people of Montana

“Bleu Horses,” a herd of 39 life-sized metal sculptures, stands sentinel across a 160-acre parcel of sloping prairie adjacent to Highway 287, which runs between Three Forks and Helena.

Misguided tax rules threaten engineering and innovation

From clean air and water to safe roads and bridges, engineering and design firms across the United States spearhead the creation of cutting-edge technologies that enhance and advance our future.

A glimpse into a choice school in the making

Frustrated working in the traditional system with standards that allow students to stagnate while no one, no teacher nor student, faces corrective consequences for lack of student growth, award winning special education teacher, Kasey Koehler, has abandoned her job as an administrator in Miles City so she can create a Choice School focused on students with diagnosed disabilities and differential learning needs.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead businesses

The truth about your home’s property tax increase

By now we all have seen our actual property tax increases.

U.S., Montana job markets stays strong despite inflation

The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell sharply last week, a sign that U.S. job market remains resilient despite higher interest rates.

Election do-over will ensure voter confidence

An unfortunate administrative error came to light at the 11th hour of Kalispell’s municipal election earlier this month.

Abortion rights group proposes constitutional amendment to protect access

Reproductive rights advocates on Wednesday submitted a proposed constitutional amendment to the Montana secretary of state that, if allowed on the 2024 ballot and approved by voters, would explicitly protect pre-viability abortion in Montana’s foundational legal document.

Man arrested for allegedly beating, threatening girlfriend arraigned in district court

A 21-year-old brought up on a felony charge after allegedly beating his girlfriend and threatening to kill her with a gun in Kalispell in October has pleaded not guilty in Flathead County District Court.

Zinke's Fill the Lake Act meets mixed reactions

Shortly after Rep. Ryan Zinke introduced legislation aimed at keeping Flathead Lake at full pool during the height of summer, operators of the SKQ Dam called the congressman’s proposal unworkable.

Storm Waterbury, 85

Storm Waterbury, 85, passed away on Nov. 16, 2023. She was born on Nov. 3, 1938 in Morenci, Michigan to Edwin and Ann (Belding) Sharr.

2 Lions are All-State Class B football

Eureka had record-setting receiver Tristan Butts and two-way linemen Wes Banks selected to the All-State team, and two more Lions were first-team all-Western B football in voting by league coaches..

A Football:10 Wildcats are All-State

A run to the State A title game usually means the team is stacked, and Columbia Falls has additional documentation with 10 Wildcats making the Class A All-State team for football.

Legals for November, 24 2023

Law roundup: New phone, who dis?

Putting a new phone through its paces, a resident decided to make sure it could contact first responders presumably in the event of an emergency. Dispatchers confirmed that the phone had, indeed, successfully called 911.

Lake County initiates withdrawal from law enforcement agreement

The Lake County Board of Commissioners sent a certified letter to Gov. Greg Gianforte on Monday, formally announcing their intention to withdraw from Public Law 280, the nearly 60-year-old agreement that gives the state jurisdiction over felonies committed by tribal members on the reservation.

Boys soccer: Glacier’s Ells is Western AA Player of Year

A pair of Glacier Wolfpack boys made All-State for Class AA soccer, and one of them, junior midfielder Liam Ells, was named the Western AA’s Player of the Year.

Bulldog boys put 5 players on All-State team

Five members of Whitefish’s 15-0 boys soccer team — which won the program’s 10th soccer title in October — all All-State for Class A.

Champ Bulldogs put 5 girls on All-State A team

The first state championship in 17 years has led to more honors for the Whitefish Bulldogs girls’ soccer team, which had five players named All-State for Class A for 2023.

Western AA Volleyball: Glacier's Speer is Player of Year

Haven Speer, senior setter for the Western AA champion Glacier Wolfpack, has been named first-team All-State volleyball as well as her conference’s Player of the Year.

AA girls soccer: Bravettes' Nigon, Pack's Brisendine All-State

Mauraia Nigon of Flathead and Reagan Brisendine of Glacier are among the 11 Western AA girls soccer players named to the All-State team for Class AA in 2023.

'We're a home': Sparrow's Nest marks a decade of providing unaccompanied teens a safe haven

Taking the first step up the stairs of Sparrow’s Nest of Northwest Montana’s residential house in Kalispell is symbolic of the upward journey many homeless teens' lives will take.

Legals for November, 23 2023

Law roundup: Hangry man goes ballistic about burrito

A hangry man in a red Jeep was purportedly yelling about a burrito at a drive-thru window and refusing to pull forward.

Gypsy Theatre Guild presents holiday radio show

The Conrad Mansion Museum is hosting A Christmas Carol Radio Broadcast on Dec. 1-3.

Gala supports Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation

The theme this year is Gold Medal Gala in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the foundation.

Musician John Floridis’ concerts focus on transition from darkness to light

Montana musician John Floridis will also perform at the Daily Inter Lake on Dec. 1 for the newspaper’s monthly Press Play lunchtime concert series.

Letters to the editor Nov. 23

Letters to the editor Nov. 23

Study says Canadian coal mines put unparalleled pollution in Montana-bound waters

The concentrations of selenium and nitrate entering the Elk River and Northwest Montana’s Kootenai watershed as a result of coal-mining operations in British Columbia are likely without measured precedent, according to a new study authored by U.S. Geological Survey scientists.

My first muley: A test of perseverance

For the last three rifle seasons, I’ve set out to harvest my first mule deer buck.

History Museum hosts holiday open house

The Northwest Montana History Museum hosts one of the first Santa sightings of the year at an open house from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30.

Singer-songwriter brings Lift Series to Kalispell next year

Brett Dennen, known for his heartfelt lyrics and dynamic performances, is set to take the stage for an unforgettable night of stories and music when he brings his annual Lift Series to the Wachholz College Center on March 7, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.

Pottery artist influenced by nature

The vast beauty of the Flathead Valley inspires much of the forms, textures, and imagery used to make Ramona Jane Stoneware, Raku, and pit-fired pottery, along with her travels throughout the U.S. and Europe.

Passing gratitude around the Thanksgiving table

Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to gather together.

Museum screens ‘Shenandoah’

The Northwest Montana History Museum’s Movie Night at the Museum will feature the 1965 film “Shenandoah” starring James Stewart at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 28.

Griz earn four individual awards in Big Sky football

MISSOULA — After winning the program’s first conference title since 2009, the Montana Grizzlies dominated the 2023 All-Big Sky postseason honors that came out Tuesday.

Big Sky Notes: Momentous return

For a second in the second half of Saturday’s Brawl of the Wild, the 122nd renewal of the Cat-Griz game, it looked a little like Montana’s trip to Idaho the month before.

Montana Supreme Court says counties wrong on 95-mill tax issue

The Montana Supreme Court Wednesday ruled against Montana county governments in a dispute over the Montana Department of Revenue’s authority to order the full collection of the 95-mill state-level school equalization levy, a formerly obscure piece of tax bills that became a flashpoint this fall as state and local officials contended with frustration over rising property taxes.

Proposal to change Montana primary elections advances with Supreme Court order

Montana voters are one step closer to getting to decide if they want to change primary elections so the top four vote-getters advance — regardless of party.

Border crossing closed after vehicle explosion on bridge connecting New York and Canada

NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (AP) — A border crossing between the U.S. and Canada has been closed after a vehicle exploded at a checkpoint on a bridge near Niagara Falls.

Judge limits Montana wolf trapping season over threat to grizzly bears

A federal judge in Missoula issued an order late Tuesday afternoon that will limit Montana’s wolf trapping season to Jan. 1 to Feb. 15 next year in hunting Regions 1 through 5 and three counties along the north-central border, citing the possibility that endangered grizzly bears get caught in wolf traps or snares.

County Election Administrator says Kalispell city election should be redone

The Flathead County election administrator supports holding the Kalispell municipal election again after a county administrative error impacted ballots on Nov. 7.

A population of hard-to-eradicate 'super pigs' in Canada is threatening to invade the US

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — An exploding population of hard-to-eradicate "super pigs" in Canada is threatening to spill south of the border, and northern states like Minnesota, North Dakota and Montana are taking steps to stop the invasion.

PHOTOS: Light Up Evergreen & Pie Auction

Photos from the annual Light Up Evergreen & Pie Auction held at Glacier Ace Hardware on Tuesday, Nov. 21.

New restaurant in Whitefish offers Mediterranean fare

The atmosphere of the restaurant is open and natural-feeling with soft yellow walls and butcher block-type tabletops.

FEC board appoints representative for Whitefish district

He will represent members residing in District No. 3, which generally comprises the Whitefish and Big Mountain areas, until the 2024 Annual Meeting.

2 survive plane crash into Hungry Horse Reservoir

Two people survived a plane crash into Hungry Horse Reservoir on Saturday.

Kalispell City Council sends public safety levy before voters

Kalispell City Council voted unanimously Monday to put before voters a public safety levy expected to raise $4.6 million in its first year.

'Kennedy is dead': Valley residents reflect on anniversary of JFK's assassination

Mike Gyrion arrived at his home from Russell Elementary School on Nov. 22, 1963 to find a copy of the Daily Inter Lake on his driveway.

60 years after JFK's death, today's Kennedys choose other paths to public service

NEW YORK (AP) — Patrick Kennedy, son of Sen. Ted Kennedy and nephew of President John F. Kennedy, remembers being a young state legislator in Rhode Island some 30 years ago and hearing encouraging words from the opposition leader at the time.

Legals for November, 22 2023

170-foot water tower to serve north Kalispell

A new 1-million gallon, 170-foot-tall water tower and associated well sites that will serve Kalispell are under construction on a knoll along U.S. 93 just north of Rose Crossing.

FEC retires $3 million in capital credits

The FEC’s board of trustees has retired $3 million of capital credits allocated to member accounts in 2008 and 2009.

Darcy Morris, 57

Darcy Inez Morris, 57 of Whitefish, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Nov. 18, 2023.

Columbia Falls and Whitefish take first and second at Browning speech and debate tournament

Columbia Falls High School took the top spot at a recent speech and debate tournament in Browning, racking up193 overall points.

Dipping into a new Thanksgiving tradition

In our own little household in Clancy, we have a mix of family traditions along with some variations I’ve created over the years to start new holiday customs. That’s where this sweet potato and red lentil dip comes into play.

Law roundup: Newfound cat owner not really into the cat

The unhappy owner of a new cat phoned the Columbia Falls Police Department with concerns the feline was unwell. She told officers she had called several area veterinarians after getting the calico cat from a neighbor and each had encouraged her to contact the authorities before they would do anything.

Baking Thanksgiving pumpkin pie

Baking Thanksgiving pumpkin pie

Glacier High School's athletic staff look to change culture after hazing allegations

Heading into the winter sports season, Glacier High School athletic staff are re-emphasizing the importance of “a strong climate and culture” within its programs after sexual assault and hazing allegations were brought against the school’s wrestling program a year ago.

Judge hears arguments on shortening Montana’s wolf trapping season to protect grizzlies

An attorney for the State of Montana told a federal judge Monday that the floating wolf trapping season will certainly not start next Monday, as is possible under this year’s regulations, as the judge heard arguments about whether to shorten the trapping season out of concerns for endangered grizzly bears.

Flathead Forest taps Botello as new supervisor

A longtime Forest Service leader is set to take charge of the Flathead National Forest in 2024.

Letters to the editor Nov. 21

Letters to the editor Nov. 21

Library association opposes proposal ending master’s degree requirement

You may not need a graduate degree to be a library director in Montana’s larger cities — and library advocates think that idea hurts their work.

Grizzlies' top performers honored

MISSOULA — Montana head coach Bobby Hauck and his staff honored some of the Grizzlies' top performers of the year on Sunday, at the annual team awards banquet at the DoubleTree Hotel.

Law roundup: Sleeping shopper in aisle five

A man was reportedly found asleep on a motorized shopping cart in a store aisle. He told someone he was just sleepy when they asked if he was OK.

Legals for November, 21 2023

Residents concerned about proposed grizzly management rules that include killing on public lands

A public comment session on Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ administrative rules proposal for managing grizzly bears should the federal government delist them from Endangered Species Act protections in parts of the state showed there remain concerns from some in Montana about killing the bears – particularly on public lands.

Bobcats’ Moore, Grizzlies’ Gillman are Rice Award finalists

BOZEMAN — Montana State offensive tackle Connor Moore and Montana running back Eli Gillman are two of 22 finalists for the 2023 Jerry Rice Award, which honors the top freshman in the NCAA’s Football Championship Subdivision.

Lady Griz get first win

PHOENIX, Ariz. — In a game that was tight throughout, a surge by Montana late in the third quarter and early in the fourth sparked the Lady Griz to a 76-71 road win at Grand Canyon on Monday night in Phoenix.

Choose excellence, not chaos, for libraries

Good libraries are not just a convenience; they are fundamentally American, reflecting a commitment to knowledge, community service and progress.

Hauck a finalist for the Eddie Robinson Award

MISSOULA — Two days after delivering Montana its first Big Sky Conference championship since 2009, Stats Perform announced Monday Grizzly head coach Bobby Hauck is one of 20 finalists for the 2023 Eddie Robinson FCS Coach of the Year Award.

Pantry ensures veterans enjoy a Turkey Day feast

Arriving at the Northwest Montana Veterans Food Pantry in Evergreen on Monday for a box stuffed full of Thanksgiving fixings, Kathleen Howard came with an offering of her own for the volunteers working during the holiday week: stroganoff.

Montana's general big game season enters final week

Montana’s general deer and elk hunting season wraps up Sunday, Nov. 26.

Biden is spending his 81st birthday honoring White House tradition of pardoning Thanksgiving turkeys

WASHINGTON (AP) — Liberty and Bell are ready for their presidential pardons.

Hans Christian Rensel, 54

Hans Christian Rensel was born the second son of Richard and Sharon Rensel on Dec. 3, 1968.

Playoff rematch?

Cats, Griz land on same side of bracket

The Grizzlies and Bobcats are both seeded in the top six into the Football Championship Subdivision playoffs, and yes there is a possible semifinal matchup.

Kalispell City Council to vote on public safety levy

Kalispell City Council is expected to decide Monday whether to put a public safety levy before voters in March.

Births

Births

Lincoln County woman gives back to the community

JoAn Cuffe is a trailblazer. From her career in banking, to working with women’s organizations, to the chamber of commerce to raising two kids, Cuffe has spent her entire life investing back into her community.

Law roundup: Man scares people with rasp

A man wearing a white sheet over his head and camo pants was allegedly carrying a knife while walking eastbound on Idaho Street. A Kalispell Police Department officer spoke to the man who was carrying a metal rasp, not a knife. The man said he was “blessing

Macy's puts up strong third quarter numbers, raises profit outlook and top end of full-year revenue

Macy's third-quarter sales declined as consumers remain cautious on their spending, but the results and its adjusted profit both topped Wall Street's expectations.

Rosalynn Carter, outspoken former first lady, dead at 96

Former first lady Rosalynn Carter, the closest adviser to Jimmy Carter during his one term as U.S. president and their four decades thereafter as global humanitarians, has died at the age of 96.

Apgar Lookout Retreat now open in Glacier Park

After a little over a year’s construction, Apgar Lookout Retreat is open to guests.

Hobby inspires new Columbia Falls rock shop

Christina Moser wasn’t really planning on opening a rock shop when she visited the empty 729 Nucleus Avenue storefront in Columbia Falls.

Sports facility at ABS Park brings opportunity for young athletes

Construction is nearly done on an indoor training facility at the ABS Park in Evergreen, a nonprofit organization and baseball facility providing low barrier athletic opportunities for local children.

Paul Cannaday, 98

Paul Augustus Cannaday, 98, passed away Oct. 10, 2023, with family by his side. He was born in Roanoke, Virginia, to Paul and Mary (Blount) Cannaday on Dec. 24, 1924.

Evergreen native brings human resources consulting skills back home

Sophie Joern understands local businesses and sees offering her human resources expertise as a way to ease the burden of navigating a rapidly changing job market.

Science meets art in Yellow Bay

“Who here loves plants?” Seattle artist and former river guide and garden designer Sarah Jones asked the few dozen of us assembled for a day alongside Flathead Lake.

Kraig Anderson, 62

Kraig Allen Anderson, 62, of Kalispell, passed away on Nov. 7, 2023.

Evergreen School focuses on providing quality early education

Twelve years ago, the Evergreen School District was awarded a grant that enabled us to introduce an early learning program, now referred to as early kindergarten, for 4-year-olds within our community.

Amazon lays off hundreds in its Alexa division as it plows resources into AI

In a note to employees on Friday, Daniel Rausch, Amazon's vice president of Alexa and Fire TV, wrote that the company is eliminating certain roles because it is ditching some initiatives.

Whitefish must crack down on rogue rentals

A show of force is expected at Monday’s Whitefish City Council meeting, where councilors will discuss whether to fund a short-term rental code enforcement position.

Federal legislation provides critical pathways for Montanans

In Montana, we thrive in close-knit communities, sharing connections that enhance our experiences and transcend cultural differences.

Letters to the editor Nov. 19

Letters to the editor Nov. 19

Strengthening the integrity of Montana’s elections

We’re now less than a year out from one of the biggest elections in Montana history. Next November, our ballots will be stacked with candidates for president, U.S. Senate, two congressional seats, governor, attorney general, secretary of state, superintendent of public instruction, state auditor, and two supreme court seats (including chief justice), to say nothing of regional and local offices and any potential ballot initiatives.

Evergreen ready to celebrate the holiday season

It’s holiday season in Evergreen and the Evergreen community is ready to celebrate with two lively and entertaining events!

Whitefish moves to business registration program

Following a change in state law, Whitefish City Council on Monday will vote on changing its business licensing provision into a business registration program.

Evergreen Chamber ambassadors connect businesses with their community

Ambassadors with the Evergreen Chamber serve a unique function within the organization, volunteering their time to connect with other businesses throughout the community.

Union workers at Stellantis and Ford close to ratifying deals that would end lengthy labor disputes

Members of the United Auto Workers union were close to approving contract agreements with Stellantis and Ford on Friday with voting at both companies overwhelmingly in favor.

‘Frozen’ production brings Broadway experience to Flathead High

FHS was the first school in Montana to produce the stage version of “Frozen” after winning the United States of Frozen competition in September 2022.

Southern border is a national security risk

Montana is a northern border state with a southern border crisis. After visiting the southern border this fall, my third trip in five years, I can say with certainty that the catastrophe at our southern border is now a serious threat to our national security and the result of the failed policies of President Joe Biden and congressional Democrats.

No. 17 Orediggers fall to No.16 Blue Hawks in postseason

BUTTE — Montana Tech’s season came to an end after a back and forth affair that saw Dickinson State (N.D.) come out on top 35-28 at Alumni Coliseum.

Federal funds catalyst for improvements at Evergreen Water and Sewer District

The Evergreen Water and Sewer District is in the midst of a more than $11 million infrastructure upgrade that aims to replace outdated systems while preparing the district for the future.

Climate change could hurt beer production

A new report in the journal Nature Communications shows that climate change is responsible for the decrease in quantity and quality of hops produced in Europe. And that trend is projected to continue as climate change is projected to continue.

Evergreen kicks off holiday season

The community donates pies to auction off to friends and neighbors with the proceeds from the annual auction benefiting the NWMT Veteran’s Food Pantry and the Flathead Food Bank.

Wall Street closes its 3rd straight winning week with a tiny gain

Wall Street edged higher in quiet trading, closing out a third straight winning week and keeping November on track to be its best month in a year.

Patsy Ruth Le Bourgeois, 76

In the early morning of Oct. 9, 2023, Jesus Christ called Patsy Ruth Le Bourgeois home.

Family plumbing and heating company expands

Plumb-Rite Plumbing and Heating, Inc. marks 20 years as a family-owned business with a facility expansion at its location at 2124 U.S. 2 E. in Evergreen.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Law roundup: Parkour moves don’t land well with police

A male who reportedly climbed onto a roof took off running on First Avenue West until the Kalispell Police Department caught up and detained him. He said he was just doing some parkour.

Griz dominant in 37-7 win over Cats in 122nd Brawl of the Wild

Photos from the Montana Grizzlies 37-7 victory over the Montana State Bobcats in the 122nd Brawl of the Wild at Washington-Grizzly Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 18. With the win, the Grizzlies also staked claim to the Big Sky Conference Championship.

Trending up: McDowell keys Grizzlies’ win over Bobcats

The Montana Grizzlies are No. 3 with a bullet after beating Montana State decisively, 37-7, in the 122nd Brawl of the Wild at foggy Washington-Grizzly Stadium.

Dillon clips Columbia Falls in OT for State A championship

After roaring back from a two-touchdown deficit in the fourth quarter to tie it, Columbia Falls fell just short in overtime at Dillon in the State A championship football game Saturday, 36-35.

Whitefish takes aim at illegal short-term rentals

While many homes that hit the market during Montana’s pandemic real estate boom ended up in the hands of new arrivals, others were turned into short-term rentals to take advantage of the state’s growing popularity among travelers — even if local zoning laws don’t permit such uses in some areas.

Judge denies suspected Columbia Falls shooter’s release request

Matthew Clark Burns, 22, pleaded not guilty to a single count of felony assault with a weapon in Flathead County District Court shortly before his Nov. 16 bail modification hearing.

Harrison, Hawks hold off Pack for AA crown

Glacier’s talented, senior-laden squad gave the 12-0 Hawks — last year’s State AA runners up — a run.

PHOTOS: Glacier falls to Bozeman, 35-27

Photos from the Class AA state championship game where the Glacier Wolfpack fell to the Bozeman Hawks 35-27 at Van Winkle Stadium in Bozeman on Friday, Nov. 17.

Range Riders add ex-Voyagers skipper to staff

The Glacier Range Riders added former Great Falls Voyagers manager Tommy Thompson to its coaching staff, the Pioneer League baseball club announced Thursday.

Over 800 families served at Flathead Food Bank's Thanksgiving distribution

Dozens of volunteers helped distribute turkeys, hams and bags of food to more than 825 families at Flathead Food Bank's Thanksgiving distribution on Friday, Nov. 17 in Kalispell. Many local businesses and groups assisted with donations and volunteering time.

NDSU holds off Griz at Montgomery Classic

MISSOULA — Damari Wheeler-Thomas scored 22 points, Tajavis Miller hit four 3-pointers and North Dakota State held off Montana 78-69 in the final game of the Mike Montgomery Classic Thursday.

Walker nets 26, Cats knock off Cal

BERKELEY, Calif. — Behind 26 points from sophomore forward Brandon Walker, Montana State secured the first signature win of the Matt Logie era in dramatic fashion on Thursday night, taking down California, 63-60 at Haas Pavilion.

Legislators unanimously pause rule on religious exemptions for vaccinations at child care centers

Allowing religious exemptions from vaccination requirements at childcare centers was voted down again by legislators Thursday after the proposal was included in a new rule package from the state health department.

Biden signs a bill averting a government shutdown for now, with Israel and Ukraine aid still stalled

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — President Joe Biden signed a temporary spending bill a day before a potential government shutdown, pushing a fight with congressional Republicans over the federal budget into the new year, as wartime aid for Ukraine and Israel remains stalled.

AA football: Pack looks to break through against Bozeman

A second football championship won’t be easy for the Glacier Wolfpack, since they have to go through the unbeaten Bozeman Hawks, and on the road, to make it happen.

One of a Keim

Glacier's Isaac Keim rises up as Wolfpack surges to AA title game

As State AA semifinal games go, Glacier’s Isaac Keim had a good one in the Wolfpack’s 35-14 win over Gallatin.

Columbia Falls Wildcats get a rematch for state football title

The Dillon Beavers’ 10-0 mark this season includes a 22-19 win over the Columbia Falls Wildcats, which may or not mean much Saturday.

122nd Brawl shaping up as biggest ever

It’s a top-five matchup and the Big Sky Conference championship hangs in the balance, so obviously the 122nd Brawl of the Wild needs no hype.

Moultray signs with SMWC

Maddie Moultray, a standout pitcher and hitter for the 2023 State A champion Columbia Falls Wildkats, signed a national letter of intent to play softball at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in Indiana.

Ronan woman dies after crash in Sanders County

A Ronan woman has died as a result of injuries sustained in a Nov. 12 crash in Sanders County.

Wardens seek information on wolverine killed illegally

WISDOM – Game wardens with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks are seeking information on a wolverine that was reportedly shot illegally this month in southwest Montana.

Gary Barker, 75

Gary Patrick Barker, 75, completed his last earthly journey on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, when he entered into eternal heavenly rest, a victim of lung cancer for the last six months of his life.

UM Bio Station receives $6.6M grant to fight pesticide pollution

FLATHEAD LAKE – The University of Montana recently was awarded $6.6 million from the Environmental Protection Agency’s Columbia River Basin Restoration Program.

Accused kidnapper given partially suspended sentence

The Whitefish man accused of holding a woman against her will and beating her with a belt in 2021 received a partially suspended sentence in Flathead County District Court on Thursday.

Kalispell Public Schools tackles pending budget deficit

Kalispell Public Schools is tackling an anticipated budget deficit in 2024-25 based on projections presented to trustees Tuesday.

Ronald Albiston, 82

Ronald William Albiston, "Elk" or "Griz" as he was commonly known by his friends, began life on a cold January day in 1941 in Idaho, and left it on Nov. 11, 2023, in Kalispell.

Historical group presents an inside look at museum

Former Northwest Montana History Museum director Jacob Thomas will describe the campaign to preserve the 1892 Kalispell Central School building, which is where the museum is now housed.

Chronic wasting disease found in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park announced this week that a mule deer buck inside the park’s borders has tested positive for chronic wasting disease. The detection is a first for the park, which has previously managed to dodge the always-fatal disease despite its presence in the three states that neighbor Yellowstone.

Law roundup: Sleeping motorist didn’t see that coming

Taking the adage “sleep with one eye open” to heart earned a motorist a police response. A passerby summoned officers with the Kalispell Police Department to the vehicle, telling dispatchers that they had walked by a dirty tan car with a man either passed out or dead inside.

Bonnie Ratterman, 72

Bonnie Mateka Ratterman, 72, died in St. George, Utah on Oct. 28, 2023.

Legals for November, 17 2023

Angeline Kruckenberg, 91

Angeline Kruckenberg, 91, passed peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023, at home.

Car crash knocks out power in Whitefish

A power outage in Whitefish on Thursday morning affected approximately 2,000 Flathead Electric Coop members.

Volleyball: Whitefish, Polson have 2 All-State picks

Whitefish’s Isabella Hartwig and Brooke Zetooney and Polson’s Avery Starr and Mckenna Hanson have been named All-State for volleyball out of the Northwest A.

Big Sky notes: Something's gotta give Saturday

It’s that time of year again: When something has to give.

Opera featuring the story of Malcolm X airs in Whitefish

This powerful, swing and jazz-inflected opera will be shown at 10:55 a.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

U.S. must unite in support of Israel

The most important global issue of the day is that of the middle east conflict. The barbaric evil of Hamas was in full display Oct. 7.

Holiday tradition ‘Nutcracker’ ballet returns to stage

The Northwest Ballet Company will be making that happen for the 35th production of this holiday tradition on Thanksgiving weekend at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts under the direction of Marisa Roth.

Older adults share life experiences through Legacy Conversations

The Flathead Elder Hub, a ministry of Immanuel Lutheran Communities, partnered last week with ImagineIF Libraries, Flathead Valley Community College and the Kalispell Senior Center to host conversations between younger and older generations.

Arts and Entertainment Events

Arts and Entertainment happenings

Irish folk band to perform at Wachholz College Center next year

Formed in 1997, Lúnasa has long been one of contemporary Irish music’s leading voices.

Bird of the month: European starling

Noisy. Drab. Pest. These are common reactions when I mention the starling. That is totally understandable. They are indeed loud, nonnative, and commonplace. But they have one amazing super power.

Legals for November, 16 2023

Letters to the editor Nov. 16

Letters to the editor Nov. 16

The 95 mills question

The top issue in Montana is property taxes. Attempts to reform were stymied by “government first” legislators and lobbyists. The 95 mills question never came up.

Grizzly conservation area in Yaak expands to over 500 acres

The Vital Ground Foundation expanded its Fowler Creek grizzly bear habitat conservation project this month with the acquisition of 64 acres in the Yaak Valley of far Northwest Montana.

Judge’s ruling favors state in Public Law 280 dispute

Flathead County District Court Judge Amy Eddy ruled against Lake County on Nov. 9 in an ongoing legal battle with the state of Montana over who should fund Public Law 280.

Law roundup: Angry customer breaks glass

An angry customer reportedly trying to start a fight threw a pint glass through a window and a person at a glass liquor display.

Northwest Montana big game harvest totals trend behind 2022

Signs of the “rut” have emerged in Northwest Montana as the general hunting season winds down with less than two weeks remaining.

Flathead Forest reviews winter permit applications

The Flathead National Forest is considering nine special-use permits that would allow businesses to operate guiding services this winter on federal public land.

Biden, Xi hold first talks in a year. Global conflicts, fentanyl and stable ties top their agenda

WOODSIDE, Calif. (AP) — President Joe Biden and China's Xi Jinping opened their first face-to-face meeting in more than a year Wednesday with a solid handshake ahead of talks with far-reaching implications for a world grappling with economic cross currents, wars in the Middle East and Europe, tensions in Taiwan and more.

Conservation board orders removal of home on McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park

Flathead Conservation District Hearing Officer Laurie Zeller on Nov. 13 found that the district has jurisdiction over a house allegedly built illegally on the banks of McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park.

Ukraine says it has a foothold on the eastern bank of the Dnieper River near Kherson city

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — A top Ukrainian official said its troops have established a beachhead on the eastern bank of the Dnieper River near Kherson, an important advance in overcoming one of Russia's most significant strategic barriers in the war.

UM athletic training students get hands-on experience

Athletic training at UM is a five-year program, starting with three years of undergraduate study, followed by two years of master’s level study.

FEC awards grants to educational projects

As a not-for-profit electric utility, when Flathead Electric Cooperative brings in more revenue than is needed to operate, that money is allocated back to its members as “capital credits.”

Legals for November, 15 2023

Marion shooting case headed to trial

The criminal case against a Marion man accused of shooting a teenager in the face over the summer is headed once again for trial.

Zinke introduces legislation to regulate Flathead Lake water levels

U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke on Tuesday introduced legislation in Congress aimed at ensuring Flathead Lake avoids another year of abnormally low water levels.

Judge temporarily blocks cumulative fee hike for Montana marijuana dispensaries

A district court judge last week granted a 60-day preliminary injunction blocking the State of Montana from assessing and collecting increased fees from businesses that operate multiple marijuana dispensaries across the state – changes passed by the legislature this year in the final days of the session.

Glacier and Flathead finish second and third at Bozeman speech and debate tourney

Glacier High School slipped into second place with 172 overall points behind first-place finisher, Bozeman’s, scoring 188 points on its home turf at the Fabulous Fallrensics Spectacular speech and debate tournament.

Whitefish speech and debate takes top spot at invitational

Whitefish High School speech and debate captured first place at the Polson Invitational over the weekend.

Law roundup: Man calls 911 to say goodnight

A man, who sounded very intoxicated, allegedly dialed 911 to say “goodnight” and hung up.

Bigfork man pleads guilty to vehicular homicide

A Bigfork man arrested after allegedly killing a motorcyclist in an alcohol-fueled collision near Somers last year is facing 15 years in state prison.

Kalispell City Council weighs energy efficiency projects at work session

Kalispell City Council debated Monday how best to use an expected influx of federal grant dollars for various energy efficiency improvements.

Suspicious death draws police presence in Kalispell

Detectives were investigating a suspicious death in Kalispell on Tuesday.

Suspicious death draws police presence in Kalispell

Detectives were investigating a suspicious death in Kalispell on Tuesday.

Montana must keep teacher licensing fees low

Should Montana increase teacher licensing fees? The answer is simple, no. Why would we consider shifting the burden of covering the cost of licensing to our teachers who are struggling to make ends meet?

Officials tout progress with new statewide election software

After putting Montana’s new election management software through the paces in a series of local elections this year, state officials appeared confident last week that the system will be ready for the flurry of statewide primary and general election activity next year.

Legals for November, 14 2023

Gary Mahugh blazes into next phase of life with business transition

After 23 years of business, Gary and Luann Mahugh have sold Evergreen’s Mahugh Fire and Safety to focus more on their other business, Northern Rockies Fire.

Chambers and Hall earn Big Sky POTW accolades

Montana State quarterback Sean Chambers and UC Davis running back Lan Larison shared the weekly offensive player of the week honors.

Lorraine Frost, 70

Lorraine S. Frost, RN, 70, of Ronan, passed into the arms of Jesus, on October 21, 2023

Thomas E. Zundel, 75

Thomas E. Zundel passed away Oct. 29, 2023.

Law roundup: Man banned for stealing sandwich fixings

An employee reportedly ran after a man who reportedly stole lunch meat and cheese. After a short pursuit, the man asked the employee

Kalispell City Councilor Sid Daoud launches US Senate bid

Days after winning reelection to Kalispell City Council, Sid Daoud has turned his attention to the Montana Senate seat up for grabs in 2024.

A new RSV shot could help protect babies this winter — if they can get it in time

Nirsevimab is approved for all infants up to 8 months old, and for some older babies and toddlers considered at higher risk of severe illness from RSV. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that every baby whose mother did not get the RSV vaccine while pregnant receive nirsevimab in the first week of life.

Griz basketball gets wire-to-wire win over UC Davis

MISSOULA — Montana picked up an impressive 78-65 wire-to-wire win on short rest against UC Davis Sunday in the opener of the Basketball Travelers Mike Montgomery Classic. The Grizzlies had five players in double figures and led by as many as 15 in the first half of a big win against the previously unbeaten Aggies.

Letters to the editor Nov. 14

Letters to the editor Nov. 14

Worker dies at platinum and palladium mine in Montana, triggering temporary halt to mining

NYE (AP) — A contract worker has died in a machinery accident at an underground precious metals mine in south-central Montana and work has temporarily stopped while the death is investigated, mine officials said.

Pursuit of man accused of threatening to kill family ends in arrest

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputies began pursuing Micah Winslow after finding him on Three Mile Drive in Kalispell while responding to the reported threats on Nov. 12, officials said in a press release.

Secret Service agents protecting Biden's granddaughter open fire when 3 people try to break into SUV

WASHINGTON (AP) — Secret Service agents protecting President Joe Biden's granddaughter opened fire after three people tried to break into an unmarked Secret Service vehicle in the nation's capital, a law enforcement official told The Associated Press.

US conducts airstrikes against Iran-backed groups in Syria, retaliating for attacks on US troops

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon and U.S. officials say U.S. fighter aircraft conducted airstrikes on locations in eastern Syria involving Iranian-backed groups, likely causing casualties and destroying weapons stored at the two targets that were struck — a training facility and a safe house.

Legals for November, 13 2023

Hugh Hockaday, 80

Hugh W. Hockaday, 80, passed away at his home in Lakeside with his family at his side after a lengthy illness on Nov. 8, 2023.

Glacier Symphony hosts celebration of Native American Heritage Month through music and art

The Glacier Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John Zoltek, will present multiple powerful orchestral pieces, including a premiere of a new Montana composition “The Hunting Moon,” and additional layers of concert entertainment during Vision Spirit Land.

Kalispell resident returns to game show stage

Stuart Crane, a product manager at Applied Materials, is a real trivia lover.

Kalispell City Council to weigh energy goals, projects as part of bid for federal funds

Kalispell stands to receive about $76,000 through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program overseen by the U.S. Department of Energy, according to a memo by City Manager Doug Russell.

Bulldogs land first round bye in NAIA postseason

HELENA, Mont. – The NAIA announced on Sunday that Montana Western, College of Idaho, and Montana Tech have each been selected for the 2023 NAIA Football Championship Series. It's the first time in conference history that three schools from the Frontier Conference have qualified for the tournament in the same season.

Bobcats Fall in Road Thriller at Seattle U

SEATTLE – A potential game-winning shot from Robert Ford III glanced off the rim with two seconds to go in regulation, and Seattle U hit a pair of free throws moments later to deal Montana State a tight 71-68 loss Saturday afternoon at the Redhawk Center in Seattle, Washington.

Chambers, Bobcats steamroll Eagles

BOZEMAN — Sean Chambers does more than run. Chambers threw for three touchdowns and ran for two more Saturday as Montana State coasted to a 57-14 win over Eastern Washington in Big Sky Conference football.

SunRift brewery to open Whitefish location

In the past five years, SunRift Beer Company has become a fixture in Kalispell and soon, it will open its second location in Whitefish.

Lakeside Community Chapel renovates old sanctuary

The history of the old sanctuary at Lakeside Community Chapel has been laid bare during renovations — from the floor joists to the landmark bell tower.

Legals for November, 12 2023

Hawaii announces $150 million recovery fund for Maui fire victims

The state of Hawaii has announced a $150 million recovery fund for the victims and survivors of the state's devastating wildfires from the summer.

Wall Street rallies and adds to its strong gains in November

Wall Street rose sharply to add to an already strong November, which is on track to be one of the market's best months of the year.

William B. "Willie" Weber, 41

On the morning of Nov. 2, 2023, William B. "Willie" Weber, 41, passed into glory surrounded by family after a long battle with glioblastoma brain cancer.

Poll indicates widespread discontent among Montana voters

’Tis the season. Yes, the holidays are quickly approaching, but we’re talking about poll season.

Customized vans tap into popularity of nomadic lifestyle

Logan Hertel, founder and owner of Hertel Vans, has been working with his hands since he can remember and has merged his passions of building and adventure to create spaces that feel more like home.

Help rebuild Montana’s behavioral health and developmental disabilities systems

No Montana community is untouched by the mental health crisis.

Uzbekistan hosts summit of regional economic alliance

An economic grouping that includes several ex-Soviet nations along with Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan and Turkey has held a summit in Uzbekistan, and leaders of member countries have vowed to further expand trade and economic ties.

Donald Clough, 86

Donald Clough, 86, passed away Oct 13, 2023 at his home in Kalispell, Montana.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events and gatherings

British economy flatlines in third quarter of the year, update shows ahead of budget statement

The British economy flatlined in the third quarter of the year. The Office for National Statistics said Friday that growth in the July to September period was zero compared to the previous three months.

Wildcats get windy win over Blue Devils

CORVALLIS — Columbia Falls’ 19-7 win over Corvallis Saturday was as tough as advertised, — and with the usual suspects stymied by a sturdy wind and stingy Blue Devil defense, the play of the game came from a Wildcat who wasn’t supposed to be in there.

Janice Moonen, 76

Janice Moonen, 76, passed away peacefully on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, after a long battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.

Bertyl O'Connor, 106

Bertyl B. O’Connor, 106, a Great Falls native and former resident of Neihart and Whitefish, passed away at Mountain View Manor in Eureka, Montana on Nov. 7, 2023.

Koi emerges as new source of souring relations between Japan and China

One-fifth of the koi exported from Japan are shipped to China.

Freedom to Vote Act secures Montana’s democratic legacy

In Montana, our strength lies in our sense of community. As a child, I learned this at my kitchen table, where my father instilled the significance of our democracy and the values that every Montanan holds dear. These lessons drove me to a life of public service and allowed me to form lasting relationships with people throughout our state. Honesty, respect and altruism are the foundation of Montana, and they bind us together.

Pauline Woodward, 90

Pauline "Pauli" G. Woodward, 90, passed away after a short illness on Oct. 7, 2023 in Whitefish, Montana, with the love and close bedside support of her three children, Sandi, Brian, Mark and faithful daughter-in-law, Kathleen.

Flathead Lake's low water levels are avoidable

Flathead Lake is one of the most beautiful places on earth; however, this summer’s low lake levels severely impacted residents, irrigators, fishermen, recreationists, marinas, land and dock owners, and many other businesses directly or indirectly.

No. 10 Montana Western locks up conference title

DILLON — Michael Palandri ran for two touchdowns before halftime and threw for two more after to lead Montana Western to a 36-12 home win over Eastern Oregon Saturday and clinch the Frontier Conference title for the Bulldogs. Palandri was 21 of 31 passing for 282 yards and Jake Humphrey led the Western (7-1, 9-1) rushing attack with a touchdown and 104 yards on 18 carries.

Letters to the editor Nov. 12

Letters to the editor Nov. 12

Mysterious light show over Martin City remains unexplained

When O’Brien Byrd woke up to a strange light coming through his bedroom window in Martin City early Wednesday morning, he knew something odd was going on.

Northwest volleyball squads bow out at State

BOZEMAN — The Glacier Wolfpack knocked Missoula Sentinel out of the State AA volleyball tournament Saturday morning, but the matinee matchup didn’t go as well.

Montana to accept federal funds to feed school-aged children next summer

After not accepting similar funds to feed hungry kids last summer, the state of Montana has changed course, and about 170,000 kids will have a better chance at full stomachs this upcoming summer in the Treasure State.

Whitefish band students set sights on New York City

Start spreading the news, the Whitefish High School band is preparing for a trip to New York City. The group’s small town blues will melt away as they enjoy three days, April 24-28, in the Big Apple.

Tester, Zinke mark Veterans Day in Bigfork

Democrat Sen. Jon Tester was joined by Republican Rep. Ryan Zinke at a Veterans Day assembly at Bigfork High School on Friday where the two shared common ground on their efforts to take care of veterans.

State Supreme Court rules for Whitefish in hotel denial

The Montana Supreme Court has ruled Whitefish City Council was within its right to deny a proposed hotel along U.S. 93.

Tribal leaders ask Congress for help with fentanyl crisis in Native American communities

WASHINGTON — Leaders of Native American tribes detailed the fentanyl crisis in Indigenous communities during a Wednesday U.S. Senate hearing.

For Glacier’s iconic goats, snow proves solace from bugs

A big snowfield in Glacier National Park might look like a great place to cool off in the heat of summer, and plenty of mountain goats are drawn to them.

AA Football: Glacier earns title shot, 35-14

Glacier’s 35-14 win over Gallatin, in the State AA football semifinals Friday at Legends Stadium, didn’t have your usual number of explosive Wolfpack plays. Big plays? Plenty of those.

PHOTOS: Glacier advances to championship with 35-14 win over Gallatin

Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack's 35-14 win over the Gallatin Raptors in the Class AA semifinals at Legends Stadium on Friday, Nov. 10.

Judge denies Fuel Fitness shooter's request for new trial

An effort to secure a new trial for convicted killer Jonathan Douglas Shaw was denied by Flathead County District Court Judge Dan Wilson on Thursday.

Volleyball: Western teams falter at State

BOZEMAN — All four Western teams competing at the All-Class State Volleyball tournament at Breeden Field House lost their first-round games Thursday, leaving all them in the loser’s bracket Friday.

Veteran reflects on duty to serve

A Vietnam War and Gulf War veteran at age 71, Edward Day finds a lot of solace in the game and as a good way to stay alert in his downtime.

Francella Jacobsen, 94

Francella "Fran" Jacobsen, 94, passed away on Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, at home in Kalispell, after a long and courageous battle with congestive heart failure.

Prep football: Pack, Wildcats head into semis

Glacier and Columbia Falls have state championship berths in sight, with the Wolfpack seeking their first AA title game since 2016 and the Wildcats chasing their first since winning the 2017 title.

Law roundup: Truant up front about skipping school

A juvenile took a matter-of-fact approach to explaining her absence from school to officers with the Columbia Falls Police Department, shrugging and telling them she didn’t want to be there. Authorities tracked down the girl at the behest of her mother, who told officers she should have been in a classroom when she was instead last seen at a local laundromat. After counseling the girl on her behavior, officers turned her over to her uncle.

Colleen Ryan Kate Robinson, 71

Colleen Ryan Kate Robinson, 71, after a short time in Hospice Care, passed away on Nov. 3, 2023.

Laurel Grady, 59

Laurel Diane Grady, 59, of Whitefish, passed away at Logan Health on Oct. 31, 2023, Halloween evening, a holiday that she loved.

Legals for November, 10 2023

Montana State nursing students assist veterans in Northwest Montana

Since 2022, students at MSU’s Kalispell nursing campus have helped out at the organization, which provides veterans and other members of the community access to food, medical equipment and other essentials, like clothing, blankets and furniture.

Veterans Day presentation at Whitefish High School

The Veterans Day Community Event is held at Whitefish High School on Thursday, Nov. 9.

Glacier drops reservations at Two Medicine, St. Mary entrances for 2024

Glacier National Park’s 2024 reservation system will look different compared to previous years, with vehicle reservations no longer required for the Two Medicine and St. Mary entrances in the park.

Body of missing Troy woman recovered from Savage Lake

At about 11:10 a.m., Two Bear notified the Sheriff’s Office that a vehicle had been located submerged in Savage Lake, about 82 feet offshore from the boat ramp.

Election offices are sent envelopes with fentanyl or other substances. Authorities are investigating

WASHINGTON (AP) — Authorities on Thursday were trying to determine who sent letters filled with fentanyl or other substances to local election offices, an attack that appears to have targeted multiple states in the latest instance of threats faced by election workers around the country.

Affordable housing bill is a win-win, but for whom?

Contrary to Nathan Dugan’s assertion (Montana Land Use Planning Act makes city planning more inclusive, Oct. 25), Senate Bill 382 contains no secrete sauce, magic potion, or any other way to make community planning “more inclusive” or to include “marginalized” citizens.

The West has too many visiting hunters

Hunting may be losing popularity nationally, but in the West the number of hunters is climbing.

Blues rock sensation Albert Cummings performs in Whitefish

The Whitefish Theatre Company hosts this music virtuoso is known for melding the chunky, rave-up R&B stylings of Albert King and Stevie Ray Vaughan to the boundary-less blues-rock improvisation of Jimi Hendrix and Freddie King, all while maintaining a distinct, genre-bending style and sound all his own.

The BobFest celebrates wilderness stewardship

The event, previously known as Voices of the Wilderness, will feature live music, dinner, drinks, plus silent and live auctions to raise funds for the foundation’s trail maintenance and education programs in the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex.

Joe and Colleen Unterreiner receive Kalispell Chamber’s highest honor

The award honoring them and several other community members and businesses were handed out at the chamber’s annual Grand Event Wednesday night at the Wachholz College Center.

Whitefish Theatre Co. stages dramatic comedy

This dramatic comedy, called "astonishing and daring” by the New York Times, has performances on both nights at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

A bad recipe

Well, the local elections are over in Montana, and I’m sure there will be some controversial results, even if there are not any.

Tracy Alan Sunde, 78

Tracy Alan Sunde passed away peacefully on Nov. 1, 2023, at 78 years old, in Turlock, California, surrounded by his loving family.

Bigfork Playhouse holds auditions for ‘A Christmas Carol’

Set in the 1980s, this retelling of the Charles Dickens classic will have a new life, new music, a “gnarly” 80s flair, a visit to his past in the 50s and several iconic 80s personalities.

Tranel talks housing crunch during roundtable in Kalispell

Flathead Valley housing advocates argued Wednesday that a countywide housing authority is needed to mitigate the lack of affordable housing in the region.

Distinguished artist Kevin Red Star featured in exhibit at Wachholz College Center

Distinguished Montana artist Kevin Red Star grew up in southern Montana on the Crow reservation. He works in mainly acrylic, ink and collage using color and composition to express his unique imagery on canvas.

Wolfpack Theatre explores ‘God’s Favorite’

Loosely based on the Biblical Book of Job, “God’s Favorite” tells the story of a wealthy Long Island family in 1970s Long Island who are visited by an unusual messenger from God and sent into a spiral of misfortune, as the main character, Joe Benjamin, refuses to abandon his religious identity.

Event marks release of novel about 1970s rock tours

A launch party for author Glenn Schiffman’s autobiographical fiction novel titled "Life in the Fast Lane: Truckin' on the 1970s Rock & Roll Road” is Friday, Nov. 10.

Column: Brisendine kicks open door to D-1

A few years ago, after watching a 5-foot-4 Glacier freshman bury a game-clinching goal from 70 feet in playoff win over Billings Skyview, a local writer wondered if Reagan Brisendine might someday add her name to the Legends Stadium Wall of Fame.

Council incumbents sweep in Kalispell and Whitefish

All four Kalispell City Council incumbents running for reelection on Nov. 7 retained their seats, according to unofficial results, though a county-level error that saw the wrong ballots sent to some Kalispell voters kept victory celebrations muted.

Legals for November, 9 2023

Onset of rut expected to ramp up big game harvest

Montana’s general hunting season is hitting the midway point and the overall harvest is expected to increase with the onset of the deer breeding season, according to state wildlife officials.

State Volleyball: Pack, Bulldogs and Lions rise up

Two of the cool things about Class AA volleyball is the pair of crossover tournaments held during the season, in which the Western AA squads take measure of their counterparts from the Eastern AA.

Flathead High School brings Broadway’s ‘Frozen’ to the stage

Montanans will have one opportunity this year to see the Broadway musical version of Disney’s “Frozen,” produced by Flathead High School.

Letters to the editor Nov. 9

Letters to the editor Nov. 9

Law roundup: Spouse reports blackmailed husband

A man allegedly sent a woman $300 in gift cards after she threatened to send photos he sent her to “church people and family.”

Marion School bond shot down by voters

Marion voters rejected an $8.2 million bond issue to expand Marion School to accommodate enrollment growth.

House Republicans subpoena Hunter and James Biden as their impeachment inquiry ramps back up

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans issued subpoenas Wednesday to members of President Joe Biden's family, taking their most aggressive step yet in an impeachment inquiry bitterly opposed by Democrats that is testing the reach of congressional oversight powers.

Ryan Busse confirms 1998 hunting ticket, calls it an honest mistake

Gubernatorial candidate Ryan Busse confirmed Tuesday he received a hunting ticket in 1998, but the Democrat also took a shot at Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte’s record.

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen launches 2024 reelection bid

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen is running for reelection in 2024, his campaign staff announced Tuesday.

Whitefish interior designer pleads guilty to wire fraud, aggravated identity theft

A Whitefish-based interior designer accused of defrauding clients of roughly $900,000 over about seven years pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft in federal court Tuesday.

Election results: Kalispell City Council incumbents retain seats

Incumbents seeking reelection to Kalispell City Council held on to their seats, according to preliminary results released late Tuesday night.

States reconsider religious exemptions for vaccinations in child care

Montana, like 44 other states, allows religious exemptions from immunization requirements for school-age children. If the state is successful in expanding its policy to child care facilities, it would become the second this year to add a religious exemption to its immunization requirements for younger kids.

Zone change for large parcel just outside Kalispell goes to county planning board

The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday will consider a zone change for 80 acres on Old Reserve Drive outside of Kalispell.

State receives more than two dozen charter applications

As of its Nov. 1 deadline, the Montana Board of Public Education has received applications from more than a dozen public school districts seeking to establish 26 distinct charter schools across the state.

Man who allegedly threatened casino employees inks pretrial diversion agreement

A Flathead County District Court judge in September dismissed felony charges against a man accused of pulling a knife on casino employees after he reached a pretrial diversion agreement.

Legals for November, 8 2023

Law roundup: Vigilante goes off half-cocked

The Whitefish Police Department responded to a report of a dark blue pickup allegedly ramming a two-door car.

Cafe bases menu on connection with herb manufacturer

The cafe’s best-selling menu item is the avocado toast which features smashed avocado, lemon juice, sea salt and red pepper flakes on sourdough bread.

Woman accused of throwing vase at husband receives suspended sentence

A Kalispell woman arrested after allegedly breaking a glass vase on her husband’s head earlier this year must now undergo anger management and pay restitution.

Kalispell mayor to coordinate with colleagues on Flathead Valley homelessness summit

Mayor Mark Johnson pledged Monday to speak with his counterparts in Whitefish and Columbia Falls about ideas for a potentially forthcoming summit on homelessness in Flathead Valley.

Socorro "Cora" Luna, 92

Socorro "Cora" Luna, of Lakeside, passed away Thursday morning, Nov. 2, 2023, at the Prestige Assisted Living facility with her family around her.

Lola Mascorella, 71

Heaven has gained a truly magnificent angel. Lola Mascorella, 71, died Oct. 28, 2023, at her home in Columbia Falls.

Mulled cider celebrates season’s flavors

The key is using freshly pressed apple juice to capture that fresh, crisp aspect of fall.

Gift festival offers fair trade merchandise

The International Gift Festival at Mountain View Mennonite Church runs Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Kalispell convict sentenced to more than 3 years in prison for firearms possession

A convicted felon the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office once deemed “armed and extremely dangerous” was sentenced to 37 months in prison in U.S. District Court in Missoula on Tuesday.

Veterans Day celebrations held around the valley

Several special events are happening throughout the Flathead Valley to mark Veterans Day.

Nell Dean (Foster) Kelly, 88

Nell Dean (Foster) Kelly, 88, the second of four children, was born in Amarillo, Texas, in 1935, to Emma Della Summerville and Charles Alonzo Foster.

Suspected robber given pair of suspended sentences

A man accused of climbing into another motorist’s vehicle parked at a Columbia Falls gas station over the summer earned a pair of suspended sentences in Flathead County District Court last month.

Man armed with rifle arrested near the US Capitol

WASHINGTON (AP) — A man with a rifle was arrested in a park near the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, police said.

Clerical mistake causes Kalispell municipal ballot error

The Flathead County Election Department on Tuesday said a clerical error caused an undetermined number of ballots in the Kalispell municipal election to be distributed to the wrong voters.

The Supreme Court seems likely to preserve a gun law that protects domestic violence victims

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court seemed likely Tuesday to preserve a federal law that prohibits people under domestic violence restraining orders from having guns.

Zinke, Daines introduce bills seeking to block Palestinians from US

U.S. Sen. Steve Daines and U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, both Montana Republicans, have in recent weeks introduced bills seeking to block Palestinians from entering the United States, and in Zinke’s case, to expel any who have recently come to America.

Air Force asks Congress to protect its nuclear launch sites from encroaching wind turbines

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Air Force's vast fields of underground nuclear missile silos are rarely disturbed by more than the occasional wandering cow or floating spy balloon. But the service is now asking Congress to help with another unexpected danger: towering wind turbines, which are growing in number and size and are edging closer to the sites each year.

Clarifying facts on the 95 mills tax

Recently opinion pieces and information sent to legislators regarding the counties decision to levy 77.9 mills instead of the state directed 95 mills has been circulating in both statewide newspapers, and internal legislative correspondence.

Legals for November, 7 2023

Travis J. Kohlbeck, 53

Travis J. Kohlbeck, 53, passed away on Nov. 1, 2023.

Zinke plan to end Glacier vehicle reservation system passes House

A funding bill containing Congressman Ryan Zinke’s proposal to kill the Glacier National Park pilot vehicle reservation system passed the House last week, but may not get much further.

Law roundup: Man goes ballistic in front of 5-year-old

A man reportedly went ballistic when a 5-year-old opened her car door and dinged his vehicle in a store parking lot.

Voters head to the polls for municipal elections

Election Day is Nov. 7.

Cell tower proposed for West Glacier property

A plan to construct a cell phone tower on private land at West Glacier has been submitted to Flathead County.

Suspect in attempted knife attack sentenced

story

Poll: Montanans tepid about leaders, split on policy issues

The deep division and uncertainty that seems prevalent in national politics is alive and well in Montana, as the results of the annual Mountain States Poll were released Thursday.

New weather station measures snowpack near Olney

A new weather station on the Stillwater State Forest is expected to provide water forecasters with advanced snowpack data from the region.

Letters to the editor Nov. 7

Letters to the editor Nov. 7

Glacier High and Flathead High speech and debate take first and second at Kalispell Kickoff

Glacier High School speech and debate took first place at the Kalispell Kickoff tournament with 224.5 overall points.

Davis' 2 TDs lead MSU to 25th straigth home win

BOZEMAN — Julius Davis ran for a pair of 1-yard touchdowns to carry Montana State to a 45-21 win over Northern Arizona in Big Sky Conference action on Saturday in Bozeman.

Law roundup: Pacing hatchet man moves along

An agitated man carrying a hatchet and a 9 mm was reportedly pacing between buildings where someone

Legals for November, 6 2023

Kalispell could put opioid settlement dollars toward co-responder program

In a memo, City Manager Doug Russell wrote that municipal officials were working with the county, particularly the Flathead City-County Health Department, to direct opioid settlement funds toward a co-responder program.

K9 Misty has a nose for trouble

Questions about her plans after leaving the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office went unanswered. Her gaze shifted downward, focused on the feet below her when asked about her career highlights.

Letters to the editor Nov. 6

Letters to the editor Nov. 6

Whitefish Council returns to decision on south entrance property

Whitefish City Council on Monday will revisit a proposal to annex property at the city’s south gateway. The plan could result in the construction of a large mixed-use development.

Survivors of abusive Native American boarding schools to share experiences in Montana

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — Survivors of government-backed Native American boarding schools and their descendants are expected to share their experiences Sunday as U.S. officials make a final stop in Montana on their yearlong tour to confront the institutions that regularly abused students to assimilate them into white society.

Updated: Prep football playoff scores, pairings

Friday: Gallatin at Glacier, 7 p.m. Saturday: Columbia Falls at Corvallis, 1 p.m.

Police investigate bomb threats at Kalispell and Columbia Falls grocery stores

Kalispell Police Department responded to a report of a bomb threat at a grocery store in the east north area of town at 9 p.m. Saturday.

Santa Fe considers tax on mansions as housing prices soar

The tax on homes sold for more than $1 million is being pitched as a lifeline to teachers, service-sector workers, single parents and young professionals who can't afford local mortgages or struggle to pay rent amid a national housing shortage and the arrival in Santa Fe of high-income digital nomads and affluent retirees.

Wolfpack rallies to claim Western AA volleyball

BUTTE — The Glacier Wolfpack, getting 14 kills from Ella Farrell, dug deep and won the Western AA Divisional volleyball title Saturday afternoon, topping Helena in five sets.

Flathead product Manning wins Frontier cross country

GREAT FALLS — Montana Tech's Carlin Manning won the individual title at the Frontier Conference Cross Country Championships at the Hickory Farm Golf Course Friday, helping the Orediggers to second place.

US employers pulled back on hiring in October, adding 150,000 jobs in face of higher borrowing rates

Last month's job growth, though down sharply from a robust 297,000 gain in September, was solid enough to suggest that many companies still want to hire and that the economy remains sturdy.

Griz squish Hornets

McDowell, Hauck reach milestones in convincing 34-7 win

Schweikert, Wildcats knock off Rams, 21-16

BILLINGS — Columbia Falls quarterback Cody Schweikert threw for two touchdowns, ran for another and the Wildcats knocked off unbeaten Billings Central Saturday in the State A football playoffs, 21-16.

Panthers upset Lions in OT

EUREKA — The Eureka Lions had the answers for upset-minded Boulder until they didn’t Saturday, falling 33-32 to the Panthers in overtime in the State B football quarterfinals.

Businessman sentenced in $180 million bank fraud that paid for lavish lifestyle, classic cars

Najeeb Khan, 70, of Edwardsburg, Michigan, told a federal judge Thursday that he was "blinded by greed" to carry out the scheme and buy more than 250 cars, as well as airplanes, boats and a helicopter, according to Cleveland.com.

Returning Montana education back to the basics

As a Republican candidate for Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction, I have a simple, but clear vision for our schools: I want to bring education back to basics.

Lona Wilson, 89

Lona Harless Wilson, 89, maiden name Harless, was born Sept. 10, 1934 in Portland, Oregon, and passed peacefully in her sleep after a six month battle with cancer on Oct. 16, 2023 at her lakeside home in Bigfork, Montana.

Head to the polls and make your vote count

Looking over the ballots for Tuesday’s election we are impressed with the number of candidates looking to serve their communities through public office.

As billions roll in to fight the US opioid epidemic, one county shows how recovery can work

Communities ravaged by America's opioid epidemic are starting to get their share of a $50 billion pie from legal settlements.

North Korean art sells in China despite UN sanctions over nuclear program

The U.N. has sanctioned a long list of North Korean goods, including arms, coal and art.

Law roundup: Man released from jail welcomed back with a punch

A man, who had gotten out of jail, was reportedly settling in on a couch at a friend’s house when another man he didn’t know punched him. The pair

Microfarm provides locally grown flowers to Flathead Valley

Located in Lakeside, the farm provides locally and organically grown flowers to the Flathead Valley.

Iran: The Middle East mastermind with the matches

I have a boyhood memory of the blockbuster award-winning movie Exodus, staring a young Paul Newman as the leader of Jewish refugees and Palestinian Jews in their epoch struggle to establish the nation of Israel.

Holland Lake fish deserve clean water

Bull trout in Holland Lake are unique yet vulnerable. Holland Lake harbors a "disjunct" core area population of bull trout, meaning that bull trout spawn in Holland Creek and mature in Holland Lake rather than migrating to Swan Lake like most bull trout in the Swan watershed.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Anna Marie Nelson, 91

On the morning of Oct. 27, 2023, in Polson, Montana, following an unseasonably early snowfall, the skies cleared and the sun came out, this was the day our mother Anna Marie Nelson, was called to heaven.

Flathead Valley sees a lack of services for homeless individuals outside of Kalispell

Officials from Flathead County’s three municipalities have confirmed interest in participating in a summit to discuss each city’s role in addressing the valley’s growing homelessness crisis.

We can LEARN to save lives

According to federal mortality data, suicide in the U.S. hit an all-time high in 2022. In Montana, the state with the second-highest suicide rate in the country, it increased 42% from 2011 to 2021.

Wrestling program in Kalispell School District subject of new complaint

The parent of a high school wrestler is alleging the Kalispell School District and officials with a standout wrestling program failed to protect her son from a sexual assault and permitted a culture and “tradition” of hazing in a lawsuit filed last week following three related federal complaints.

Cold walk in the woods puts meat in the freezer

When I moved to the Flathead Valley a year ago, I was tasked with covering natural resources and the environment here in Northwest Montana. Hunting is a major part of that conversation.

Mark Alan Hamilton, 62

Mark A. Hamilton, 62, is finally at peace after a complicated battle with lung cancer. He passed away on Oct. 25, 2023, with his loyal companion Boone by his side.

Legals for November, 5 2023

Letters to the editor Nov. 5

Letters to the editor Nov. 5

PHOTOS: Grizzlies take down Hornets, 34-7

Photos from the Montana Grizzlies 34-7 victory over the Sacramento State Hornets at Washington-Grizzly Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 4.

Kalispell man dies in Saturday crash near Marion

A 33-year-old Kalispell man died in a crash near Marion early Saturday.

AA Football: Playoff scores

Second round Friday, Nov. 3 Gallatin 40, Helena 6 Glacier 46, Missoula Sentinel 12

Volleyball: Glacier tips Flathead in semis

BUTTE — Crosstown III was a battle, with Glacier needing five sets — and 18 kills from Sarah Downs — to subdue Flathead in the semifinals of the Western AA volleyball tournament Friday.

Troy man pleads guilty to DUI homicide in death of friend

A Troy man who pleaded guilty to DUI homicide in Lincoln County District Court last week may avoid time behind bars.

Addiction treatment facilities operating on a provisional license after state investigations

Recent operations at one of Montana’s largest addiction treatment companies included shoddy admissions practices, failure to report a patient death and safety concerns in a timely manner, and unlicensed detox and withdrawal practices, according to state investigations completed in mid-October.

Volleyball: Florence tops Eureka for West B title

EUREKA — Florence won its first Western B Divisional title since 2019 and continued its impressive run of state volleyball appearances with a four-set win over Eureka Friday.

Lincoln County weathers another election mishap

A proofing error has resulted in absentee voters in Eureka receiving new ballots ahead of the Nov. 7 election.

AA football: Pack puts away Spartans

The Sentinel Spartans brought more puzzles to solve for the Glacier Wolfpack Friday, but in the end — thanks to four second-half touchdown passes by Jackson Presley — the hosts prevailed 46-12.

PHOTOS: Glacier advances past Sentinel, 46-12

Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack's 46-12 win over the Missoula Sentinel Spartans in the quarterfinals of the Class AA playoffs at Legends Stadium on Friday, Nov. 3.

Gladys M. Sorrells, 98

Gladys was blessed with a lovely autumn day to meet her Lord and Savior in heaven. With her daughters holding her and praying over her, she peacefully left her earthly body of 98 yrs on Oct. 24, 2023.

Glacier kicks off football playoff games

Eureka, C-Falls play Saturday

The State AA, A and B football playoffs have a plenty of local flavor, along with a bit of mystery.

Cecil John Rowe, 64

Cecil John Rowe, 64, lost his battle with cancer on Oct. 29, 2023 in Springfield, Oregon.

Column: Musings of an aging sports editor

On March 10, 2010, I and former fellow Missoulian sports writer Nick Lockridge found ourselves at Tiny’s Tavern in Billings.

Law roundup: Barfly accused of enjoying booze cruises

A pair of callers, frustrated with a local man’s penchant for going on booze cruises, phoned the Columbia Falls Police Department looking for an intervention of sorts. The first said that the man arrived at an area bar already drunk and likely drove there.

U.S. Forest Service may face steep fine for leaks at Holland Lake wastewater system

The U.S. Forest Service could be fined as much as $10,000 a day for violations related to leaks and unreported, unapproved repairs at the wastewater treatment system at Holland Lake, according to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality.

Bella Blake, 14

Our Bella Bug has left the journey we call life. Bella Blake tragically passed away in a car accident on Oct. 29, 2023.

Motorists can expect road closure on East Idaho Street on Friday

Motorists planning on traveling along East Idaho Street in Kalispell on Friday should expect to run into road closures, city officials say.

Legals for November, 3 2023

Volleyball: Bravettes, Wolfpack to meet again

BUTTE — Crosstown III will take place at the Butte Civic Center.

Sandra Lee Aiken Scull, 70

Sandra Lee Aiken Scull, 70, passed away from multiple health conditions on Sept. 17, 2023, joining her parents and precious son Michael in heaven.

Timber project planned near Bob Marshall

A proposed timber project on about 5,400 acres in the Swan Valley is under review by the Flathead National Forest.

Glacier, Flathead spikers head to Butte

The Western AA Divisional volleyball tournament begins Thursday in the spacious Butte Civic Center, and Kalispell has a pair of teams with the very reachable goal of the State AA next week at Montana State.

Blackfeet operations manager indicted for stealing Covid-19 stimulus funds

James McNeely, the operations manager and spokesperson for the Blackfeet Tribe, was indicted for stealing at least $78,400 in federal Covid-19 stimulus dollars intended for the tribe, according to federal court documents filed last week.

Bail to remain at $100,000 for man accused of running over ex-wife in Martin City

Christopher Gilham’s voice broke as he remembered watching Kenneth James Floyd’s pickup truck run over his wife, Kimberly Gilham, on June 18 and drive off into the night.

Montana's psychiatric hospital is poorly run and neglect has hastened patient deaths, lawsuit says

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana's state psychiatric hospital has been so poorly run for decades that patients are unsafe and not treated with dignity and respect, which combined with a pattern of understaffing, lack of training and neglect has hastened the deaths of two patients, a lawsuit filed this week states.

Columbia Falls man killed in suspected DUI crash on Halfmoon Road

A Columbia Falls man died Wednesday morning after the vehicle he was a passenger in crashed off an embankment on Halfmoon Road.

Logan Health holds simulated active shooter training on Saturday

Logan Health Medical Center and Kalispell Fire Department will be participating in a full-scale active shooter exercise on Saturday, Nov. 4.

Man and 1-year-old boy shot and killed in Billings, suspects detained

A man and a 1-year-old boy were shot to death in their residence in Montana's largest city and 10 people have been detained while the shooting is investigated, Billings Police said.

MET Opera season opens with ‘Dead Man Walking’

This harrowing and contemporary opera will be shown on Saturday, Nov. 4 at 10:55 a.m. at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Columbia Falls Academic Foundation hosting outdoor film festival

The Columbia Falls Academic Foundation is hosting a nature and outdoor adventure film festival at the high school auditorium on Friday, Nov. 3 at 7 p.m.

PSC’s $100 million rate heist?

As the first snow is falling, and freezing temperatures hit, we are getting pummeled with another huge energy rate increase, thanks to the five Republicans on the Montana Public Service Commission.

Montana State Music Teachers Association annual conference starts today

Montana State Music Teachers Association’s annual conference, titled Creative Collaborations, starts today, Nov. 2, and goes through Nov. 4 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Kalispell.

Bigfork concert benefits food banks

The event will feature an unforgettable night of music with Man & The Box featuring Tommy Edwards, Clint Sherman, Benny Weag from the hit television show The Voice, and special guest Kelley Sinclair.

Swan View Coalition questions Forest Service road closure methods

A study done earlier this year by the Swan View Coalition claims that the Forest Service is overstating the effectiveness of of road closure devices on the Flathead National Forest.

Endangered Species Act protections for wolverines likely imminent

An analysis of wolverines in Wyoming and the rest of their Lower 48 range paints a grim picture of a low-density species that’s losing its habitat and facing an uncertain future.

Legals for November, 2 2023

Music school hosts weekend events with musician Jack Gladstone

North Valley Music School is hosting “A Weekend with Jack Gladstone” on Friday, Nov. 3 and Saturday, Nov. 4.

Exhibit featuring artist Mary Knotts an energetic experiment

A longtime resident of the Flathead, her love of the outdoors was first nurtured by roaming the hills and by-ways of her native West Virginia.

Creation of a Memory features youth guest artist

Creation of a Memory, a concert featuring guest artist, 9-year-old Ziao Chen and local violinist Wai Mizutani, is scheduled Nov. 10 at the Wachholz College Center in Kalispell.

Mike Murray to perform unreleased material at upcoming show

Local singer and songwriter Mike Murray will play an evening of original songs written throughout his career and new unreleased material on Nov. 3.

Letters to the editor Nov. 2

Letters to the editor Nov. 2

Avalanche experts at workshop in Whitefish

Winter recreationists will gather in Whitefish on Nov. 11 for an afternoon of presentations from experts in avalanches and mountain experience at the annual Northern Rockies Snow and Avalanche Workshop.

Lottery chances available for trophy bison hunt on the Blackfeet Reservation

Those interested in entering a lottery for a guided trophy bison hunt on the Blackfeet Reservation will have five opportunities to enter the drawing.

Knudsen’s office blocks top-four primary ballot initiative, prompting lawsuit

The backers of a constitutional initiative that would reshape primary elections in Montana are suing the state for access to the ballot in 2024, arguing that Attorney General Austin Knudsen’s office incorrectly determined the proposal was illegal.

Jacob Mathwig, 58

Pastor Jake Mathwig of Bigfork, Montana, born Sept. 25, 1965, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Oct. 28, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, grace and dedication.

Glacier Chorale visits dreamland in upcoming concert

Glacier Chorale hopes its Mystic Dreams concert will transport listeners to a musical dreamland Nov. 4.

Comment sought on proposed Columbia Falls pond, Yellow Bay improvements

Comment sought on proposed Columbia Falls pond, Yellow Bay improvements

Flathead County Commissioners vote down Phase I of proposed North Shore Woods Development

Citing concerns about the possible impacts of future development, the Flathead County commissioners voted unanimously to deny the preliminary plat for a portion of the proposed North Shore Woods housing development Tuesday morning.

Region 1 deer and elk harvest lags behind 2022 season

The percent of hunters with game continues to lag behind last season’s average two weeks into Northwest Montana’s general rifle season.

Ballots are due on Marion School bond issue

Voters are reminded that ballots are due Nov. 7 on Marion School District’s $8.2 million bond issue to expand and accommodate growth.

Candidate for Columbia Falls City Council Kathryn Price

Kathryn Price is a lifelong resident of Columbia Falls. Price, 52, graduated from Columbia Falls in 1989 and then went on to study business and accounting at Flathead Valley Community College.

Sun Road construction on track to finish this fall

Paving on the road will continue daytime operations into November, weather permitting, according to the Federal Highway Administration, the agency that oversees road construction projects in Glacier Park.

Polson High School student sets sights on Carnegie Hall

Polson High School junior Bethany Butler has wanted to sing in Carnegie Hall since she was 6 years old. “I love Carnegie Hall not only because everybody, like anybody who wants to sing, wants to sing at Carnegie Hall,” she says.

Montana Capitol Christmas tree harvested from Lubrecht Forest

GREENOUGH – Governor Greg Gianforte today announced the harvest of the 2023 State Capitol Christmas tree from a Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) State Trust Lands plot in the Lubrecht Forest.

Candidate for Columbia Falls City Council Darin Fisher

Incumbent Darin Fisher is seeking a fourth term on the Columbia Falls City Council.

Candidate for Columbia Falls City Council John Piper

Incumbent John Piper, 62, has served three terms on Columbia Falls City Council.

Law roundup: Man challenges stranger to defend girlfriend’s honor

A man and his girlfriend called the Kalispell Police Department after allegedly receiving disturbing texts from an unknown number where someone threatened to shoot up their house and throw pipe bombs at it. The man said his girlfriend

Western Montana timber company honored with forestry award

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte traveled to Plains last week to honor and bestow the annual Forest Products Award to a family-owned business based out of Libby.

Big Sky Notes: Check out the new guys

Montana wasn’t the only Big Sky Conference football team to unveil a true freshman quarterback this past Saturday — the Grizzlies’ next opponent did the same with more impressive results.

Briefs: Bozeman sweeps AA soccer titles

BOZEMAN — The Bozeman Hawks doubled up on soccer titles, winning the State AA girls and boys championships Tuesday at Van Winkle Stadium.

Candidate for Columbia Falls City Council Kelly (Hamilton) King

Kelly (Hamilton) King is seeking her first election to the Columbia Falls City Council.

James Harvey, 80

On October 27th, 2023, James "Jim" Harvey, 80, went to be with our lord.

Legals for November, 1 2023