Ellington

Lawsuit challenges Montana Legislature’s new PSC map as unconstitutional gerrymander

Lawyers for Montana Conservation Voters and a group of Montanans from across the state filed a lawsuit Monday challenging the new Public Service Commission district map redrawn this year by the Republican supermajority legislature, which they say is gerrymandered to favor Republicans in violation of the state constitution.

Whitefish responds to inflammatory rhetoric

In his letter to the editor (Class action suit against Whitefish moves forward, Oct. 26) Paul Gillman made numerous misrepresentations of fact and even went so far as to publicly disparage a city of Whitefish employee.

Columbia Falls High School Speech and Debate takes first at season opener

Columbia Falls High School took first place and Whitefish High School, third, in Corvallis over the weekend in the first speech and debate tournament of the season for the local Class A teams.

Law roundup: Man doesn’t want to be found

A man waiting outside for food to be delivered was spooked when he noticed a male staring at him from inside a darker-colored truck who started shouting, “I found you! I found you!” That night, he went

Legals for October, 31 2023

All but seven counties join revolt over school tax

According to information supplied this week by the Montana Association of Counties, 49 of Montana’s 56 counties have chosen to buck a directive from the administration of Gov. Greg Gianforte by scaling back their collections of a state-level school funding property tax.

FWP solicits public input on its plan for managing Montana’s 1,000-plus wolves

Montana has a new draft plan to guide its management of wolves, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks announced late last week. The proposal has implications for a lawsuit over state lawmakers’ attempts to reduce wolf numbers and a petition seeking the restoration of federal protections based on claims that Montana’s laws and regulations jeopardize the animal’s recovery.

Wilson named Big Sky Defensive Player of the Week

Few on the Grizzly defense were as dominant as sophomore linebacker Riley Wilson, who led Montana with an impressive stat line of six tackles, three sacks, and four tackles for loss. For his effort, the Big Sky Conference named him the league’s Defensive Player of the Week on Monday. He also received an honorable mention for the Stats Perform FCS Defensive Player of the Week.

Logan Health CEO flags rising health care costs as a top challenge

Finding efficiencies will be a key component to the success of the new Logan Health-Billings Clinic hospital system as the cost of health care rises and Montana reconsiders its Medicaid expansion program, Logan Health’s CEO said at a public forum last week.

Letters to the editor Oct. 31

Letters to the editor Oct. 31

Kalispell teen killed, six injured in suspected DUI crash

A teenage girl from Kalispell died early Sunday morning after the pickup she was a passenger in rolled on U.S. 2 near Kalispell.

Sheriff: Suspect in chase tried to run down deputy

Authorities are holding a Kalispell man on multiple pending charges, including attempted homicide, after he allegedly fled officers in a stolen vehicle on Monday, attempted to run down a deputy and tried to choke a K9.

Letters to the editor Oct. 30

Letters to the editor Oct. 30

Octogenarian storyteller puts words to paper in novels

John Hodge has always been a storyteller, but it wasn’t until he started trading correspondence with his granddaughter that the idea to write a novel began to formulate.

More than 1,000 pay tribute to Maine's mass shooting victims

More than 1,000 people packed a cavernous church Sunday night, and hundreds more spilled outside, to hug, sing, weep and seek comfort in the wake of Maine's most deadly mass shooting.

'Friends' creators, actors, family mourn Matthew Perry: 'The One Where Our Hearts Are Broken'

Matthew Perry was widely mourned this weekend by friends, co-stars and some very famous fans, including his childhood classmate, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau; his "Friends" mom Morgan Fairchild; and even Adele.

Bulldogs top C-Falls for Class A crown

The third time's the charm for the Whitefish Bulldogs on Saturday, who claimed their first Class A girls soccer title in 17 years with a 3-1 win over the Columbia Falls Wildkats.

Exxon profit falls compared with record-setting numbers last year, but consolidation in full swing

Exxon Mobil's third-quarter profit declined compared with last year when the oil giant put up record numbers as oil prices soared, but net income jumped 15% compared with the previous quarter. It also raised its quarterly dividend.

New Kalispell gym aims for purpose behind training

An abandoned truck repair shop in downtown Kalispell has found new life as a CrossFit gym thanks to a duo of fitness lovers, Jessie and Kyna Williams.

Kareen Bratt, 82

Kareen Ann Bratt, 82 of Somers, Montana, passed away peacefully on Oct. 11, 2023.

Donald Ray Webber, 80

Uncle Don "Honey Bear" Webber crossed The Great Divide on Jan. 15, 2023. He was 80.

Griz get two pick-6 TDs, shut out Bears 40-0

Jaxon Lee took one interception 48 yards for one pick-6 and Braxton Hill took another 34 yards to the paint in No. 5 Montana’s 40-0 shellacking of the Bears at Washington-Grizzly Stadium.

Rhonda Tripp, 57

Rhonda Lee (Potter) Tripp, March 1966 – October 2023.

Senate wasting time not responding to Hamas attacks

This week marks the 40th anniversary of the bombing of the U.S. Marine Corps barracks in Beirut, Lebanon. In the words of President Ronald Reagan, “We should all recognize these deeds make so evident the bestial nature of those who would assume power if they could have their way.”

Kalispell Public Schools moves ahead with charter applications

Kalispell Public Schools trustees approved the submission of applications that would allow the district to create public charter schools Oct. 24, after about two-and-a-half hours of deliberation and presentations.

Letters to the editor Oct. 29

Letters to the editor Oct. 29

Kalispell breast cancer survivor says faith and love of nature kept her going

Roberta Schuppel remembers the moment she felt a lump in her breast, back in 2020 when she was settling into bed.

As the 'Hollywood of the South,' Atlanta has boomed. Its actors and crew are now at a crossroads

For more than a decade, work had been nonstop in Atlanta's booming film industry thanks to Georgia's extremely generous tax break. Dubbed the "Hollywood of the South," metro Atlanta became a ubiquitous backdrop for huge projects, including Marvel films and Netflix's "Stranger Things."

Pecora’s four TDs lead Eureka over Red Devils

Huntley Project (5-5) led the game 6-0 early on a 51-yard burst from Jered Cook, but Pecora’s first touchdown, covering 3 yards, and Timothy Schmidit’s PAT kick put the Lions (9-1) up for good with 8:09 left in the first quarter.

Western Montana designated as a regional technology hub

Western Montana is now a federally-designated technology and innovation hub.

Tech hub designation is great news for Montana

The recent announcement that Western Montana has been selected as a federally-designated technology hub is great news for our state.

Wendy Maechtle, 68

Wendy Jean Maechtle, born Jan. 18, 1955, in Anoka, Minnesota, died Oct. 19, 2023, at home in Columbia Falls, Montana.

Robert E. Brockman, 88

Robert E. "Bob" Brockman, 88 of Kalispell, passed away Oct. 18, 2023.

Vandals knock off No. 2 Bobcats

Gevani McCoy hit Hayden Hatten on a 12-yard touchdown pass with 2:47 to play and No. 8 Idaho beat second-ranked Montana State 24-21 in Moscow on Saturday.

Law roundup: Man’s 911 emergency is love related

A Whitefish man allegedly called 911 numerous times to wax poetic

Lois Henry, 92

Lois Lavonne Henry, 92 of Missoula, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, at her home at Grizzly Peak from pancreatic cancer.

Florence Kirkland Wells, 82

Florence Eleanor Kirkland Wells, 82 of Kalispell, passed away at Brendan House on Oct. 24, 2023, after COVID ended her battle with lung cancer.

Beth Ann Repke, 65

On Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023, Beth Ann Repke, 65, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family whom she cared for and loved with all her heart.

New Horizons Band offers seniors a chance to feel the music

“Music is our common goal and music is therapeutic, emotionally and mentally. Band friends stick together for a lifetime — it’s just a special bond, people playing music together. That happens in our group, and I'm very proud of the welcoming nature of our people,” said director Eileen Alexander.

Whitefish boys win 10th title, beat Rams 1-0

Whitefish battled Billings Central and came out with a 1-0 win in the Class A boys soccer final on Saturday, the program’s 10th overall championship.

Amazon posts strong revenue and profits, says it's in 'best position' it's ever been before holidays

For the three months that ended on Sept. 30, the company said it earned $143.1 billion in revenue, a 13% increase compared to the same period last year. Amazon made $9.9 billion in profits, topping analysts' expectations and sending its stocks higher in after-hours trading.

Logan Health Foundation awards grants to educators

Logan Health's Foundation and School-Based Services awarded $500 grants to 21 educators at Flathead Valley schools this October.

Wolfpack spikers nail down top seed in West

MISSOULA — Leila Major and Ella Farrell had 10 kills each, and Glacier nailed down the top seed for Western AA volleyball divisionals by beating Missoula Sentinel in four sets Saturday.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Kalispell leads the way on public charters

Kalispell Public Schools is venturing into the public charter school realm with an eye on being a leader and innovator for the state’s newest educational opportunity.

A productive legislative session for hunters and landowners

Hunting season has arrived! As hunters flock to the hills in pursuit of Montana’s treasured big game species, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the good work that was done in this spring’s legislative session for hunters, landowners, and conservationists alike.

US consumers keep spending briskly even in the face of persistent inflation and high interest rates

Friday's report from the Commerce Department showed that prices rose 0.4% from August to September, the same as the previous month. And compared with 12 months earlier, inflation was unchanged at 3.4%.

FHS students inducted into National Honor Society

Thirty students were inducted into the Flathead High School National Honor Society.

Helen C. Baker, 89

Helen Claire Baker, 89, passed away on Oct. 19, 2023, at Logan Health in Kalispell, Montana.

PHOTOS: Lady Bulldogs claim Class A State Championship with 3-1 win over Columbia Falls

Photos from the Whitefish Lady Bulldogs 3-1 victory over the Columbia Falls Wildkats in the Class A girls soccer state championship at Smith Fields on Saturday, Oct. 28.

PHOTOS: Evergreen trunk or treat

Children in costumes participate in the trunk or treat event at the Boys and Girls Club of Glacier Country headquarters in Evergreen on Saturday, Oct. 28. The event was sponsored by the Flathead County Sheriff Posse, Evergreen Chamber of Commerce and local first responders.

Suspect in C-Falls shooting allegedly targeted ex-girlfriend

Prosecutors filed one count of assault with a weapon against Matthew Clark Burns following the alleged Oct. 25 shooting.

Writing center erases the phrase ‘I hate to read’

“I hate to read,” is not an uncommon phrase Flathead High School Writing Center Specialist Tracey Johnson hears when the topic comes up in class.

Columbia Falls downs Whitefish 42-0 in playoffs

Columbia Falls quarterback Cody Schweikert threw for two touchdowns and ran for three, and the host Wildcats beat Whitefish 42-0 on a chilly Friday night.

PHOTOS: Columbia Falls tops Whitefish, 42-0

Photos from the Columbia Falls Wildcats 42-0 win over the Whitefish Bulldogs in a Class A playoff game at Satterthwaite Field on Friday, Oct. 27.

Idaho judge upholds indictment against man accused of fatally stabbing 4 college students

MOSCOW, Idaho (AP) — An Idaho judge on Thursday declined to dismiss a grand jury indictment against a man accused of fatally stabbing four University of Idaho students.

Volunteer speech and debate judges needed

The speech and debate season is here and about 450 volunteer judges are needed for the Kalispell Kickoff.

ImagineIF Board votes to remove all references to American Library Association

The ImagineIF Board of Trustees voted Thursday to clarify its position of no longer being associated with the American Library Association.

FVCC’s Culinary Institute of Montana presents holiday offerings

Flathead Valley Community College’s Culinary Institute of Montana is offering opportunities to learn new skills, taste delicious dishes and support student scholarships this holiday season.

Big Sky champions pile up honors, Skyleigh Thompson league MVP

The Montana soccer team, which went unbeaten through league and had one of the best regular seasons in conference history, was rewarded for its high level of play this fall with a number of Big Sky Conference honors on Thursday.

Whitefish, Billings Central boys set for Class A soccer final

It’s safe to say it might be a low-scoring boys Class A soccer final at Billings’ Amend Park on Saturday at noon. Between the two of them, Whitefish and Billings Central have allowed fewer than 15 goals this fall. Officially, Whitefish has allowed six and Billings Central eight. Neither have allowed a goal thus far in the playoffs.

Cat-Dog II set for Friday

Bigfork on road, Eureka at home as football playoffs begin

When Whitefish pinned a 20-14 overtime loss on Columbia Falls on Sept. 15, it marked the first game that first-year Bulldogs’ coach Brett Bollweg went all-in with Carson Gulick at quarterback.

Cody Schweikert latest in standout C-Falls QBs

In the 12 seasons Jaxon Schweikert has guided the Columbia Falls football program, the Wildcats have had their share of prolific quarterbacks.

Montana GOP, Republican National Committee seek to intervene in voter registration suit

The Montana Republican Party and the Republican National Committee have asked to intervene in a federal lawsuit filed earlier this month that seeks to block a law passed by the Republican-led legislature this year surrounding additional voting requirements.

Duskie Dwelle, 74

Dayton- Duskie Evelyn Dwelle, 74, peacefully passed away on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, in Kalispell, Montana.

Lyngholm leads Flathead past Hellgate

MISSOULA — Olive Lyngholm had 10 kills and five aces, and the Flathead Bravettes squared their Western AA volleyball record at 7-7 with a straight-sets win over Missoula Hellgate Thursday.

Law roundup: Reports of killer clowns unmasked

The Columbia Falls Police Department was tasked with tracking down a posse of clowns after a caller reported seeing a troupe of jesters armed with baseball bats.

North Fork area on alert for aggressive grizzly

A grizzly bear with a taste for dogs has the North Fork community on alert, though the bruin may have died after a landowner reportedly shot and wounded it.

Wildkats, Bulldogs’ third battle is for title

For the first time since 2006, there will be a Class A girls champion from the Northern conference crowned this Saturday at Smith Fields.

Visitation to Glacier National Park up over last year

Despite an even broader reservation system in 2023, visitation to Glacier National Park is up slightly over last year through August, according to the National Park Service.

Ballot box for Troy area voters will remain in former dispatch center

The ballot box for Troy absentee voters will be maintained in the former office of the now defunct dispatch center.

FWP chief of operations pleads not guilty to hunting without landowner permission

The chief of operations for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks pleaded not guilty last week to failing to obtain a landowner’s permission for hunting in Lewis and Clark County.

Manhunt continues for suspect in Maine mass shooting

At least 16 people were killed Wednesday in shootings in Lewiston, Maine, and the death toll is expected to rise, two law enforcement officials told The Associated Press.

Suspect in break-ins given consecutive sentences

Christopher Thomas Shannon, 23, initially faced felony burglary, criminal mischief and criminal possession of dangerous drugs charges as well as one misdemeanor count of theft in Flathead County District Court following a string of alleged break-ins across the valley in mid-May.

Auditions are planned to cast roles in ‘Admissions’

The Whitefish Theatre Company is holding auditions for a Black Curtain theater production, “Admissions,” a play by Joshua Harmon.

Bewitching activities abound for Halloween

There are many activities planned around the Flathead Valley to celebrate Halloween beginning this weekend. Here’s a rundown of events for ghouls and goblins of any age.

Range Riders pick new manager

The Glacier Range Riders will have their third manager in three seasons in 2024, with the announcement Tuesday that Paul Fletcher will lead the Pioneer League baseball team going forward.

High school choir students set to perform with Avi Kaplan

Glacier High School hosts singer-songwriter Avi Kaplan, a former member of Grammy-award-winning a cappella group Pentatonix, in a special concert featuring students from around Montana on Oct. 28.

Bigfork library project reaches milestone with groundbreaking ceremony

The long-running effort to give the Bigfork branch of ImagineIF Libraries a new building culminated Wednesday with a ceremony celebrating the start of construction on the Bethany Lutheran Ark Building.

Neil Simon’s ‘Plaza Suite’ collection opens in Bigfork

Go behind the door of one famous New York hotel suite where the romantic lives of three couples unfold in hilarious ways in Neil Simon’s comedy “Plaza Suite,” presented by the Bigfork Community Players.

Billy Billie’s electrified folk makes for a laid-back sound

Billie Billy performs for the Daily Inter Lake’s Press Play lunch concert series on Friday, Nov. 3.

Know where you stand

The phrase “know where you stand” is the ad line for the Missoula based cell phone app used by millions of hunters to assist them in hunting.

Class action suit against Whitefish moves forward

In the middle of a 2022 federal class action lawsuit filed against Whitefish, city officials attempted to deny refunds to many property owners or limit the amount of refunds due these residents.

Solve the Murder at the Devonshire Manor

At Devonshire Manor the line between reality and imagination blurs.

Bruce Freeman Ruby, 85

Bruce Freeman Ruby, 85, passed away peacefully at Logan Health Medical Center on Oct. 11, 2023.

Community band holds Dances and Folk Tunes concerts

The Flathead Valley Community Band will present two free concerts titled Dances and Folk Tunes in November.

Warren Miller movie shows in Whitefish

Filmmaker Warren Miller’s “All Time — 2023,” a celebration of ski towns, icons and innovators will be showing in Whitefish Nov. 3-4.

Law roundup: Baggage no one wants to claim

An intoxicated belligerent man was reportedly thrown off a plane due to the level of his drunkenness. Security

Fuel Fitness shooter’s attorneys review jury pool data in quest for new trial

Attorneys for Fuel Fitness shooter Jonathan Douglas Shaw received more time Wednesday to study data on the available jury pool for his July murder trial in an effort to see his convictions on deliberate and attempted deliberate homicide charges reversed.

My uncle John

When I was 45, I went to my family’s second reunion.

Jonah Watson Isles, 28

Jonah Watson Isles, 28

Suspect in mischief, theft cases picks up bail jumping charge

Asher Alan McAlpine-Dixon of Kalispell was expected to appear before Judge Dan Wilson on Oct. 17 for a scheduled pretrial conference in his theft case, but never showed up, court records indicated.

Letters to the editor Oct. 26

Letters to the editor Oct. 26

Slow start to big game hunting season in Northwest Montana

More than 1,600 hunters appeared at Northwest Montana game check stations on Saturday and Sunday — the general hunting season opening weekend.

1st major storm of the season drops up to a foot of snow in Montana

The first major snowstorm of the season dropped up to a foot of snow in the Helena, Montana, area by Wednesday morning, canceling some school bus routes on the western side of the city as snow continued to fall throughout the morning.

Mike Johnson, a staunch conservative from Louisiana, is elected House speaker

Republicans eagerly elected Rep. Mike Johnson as House speaker Wednesday, elevating a deeply conservative but lesser-known leader to the seat of U.S. power and ending for now the political chaos in their majority.

Great Fish Community Challenge nets over $6.2 million for nonprofits

Whitefish Community Foundation awarded more than $6.2 million to 77 Flathead Valley nonprofit organizations during the Great Fish Awards Celebration Tuesday evening.

Fox picked to coach Bravettes basketball

The Flathead Bravettes basketball program has a new coach and she is a familiar face: Kaylee Fox, a longtime assistant at the school.

Sanders County quilting group helps fire victims stitch their lives back together

Answering the call to serve, a small but dedicated group of women from Sanders County are doing their part to ease the pain for those who lost everything in the River Road East Fire.

Lions Club resumes growing food for community

Thanks to a few key donations of space, seeds and plant starts, Whitefish Lions Club members were able to get their hands back into the soil to raise nutritious produce for area families this year.

Man accused of stealing snowplow given deferred prosecution agreement

A Flathead County District Court judge dismissed last week a felony charge against a man accused of stealing a snowplow in Kalispell in January.

Law roundup: Thelma and Louise make a pit stop

Two women in a beat-up sedan reportedly made a pit stop at a store where one of them went inside to steal cosmetics and ammo.

This week, a Big Sky matinee: MSU at Idaho

There’s another Top-10 FCS battle brewing in Moscow, Idaho, on Saturday and for once, fortune favors the print journalist.

Linda Schwab Ryder, 75

Linda Schwab Ryder (Robinson), 75, passed away quietly in her sleep on Mon. Oct. 9, 2023, in Kalispell.

Michael "Mikey" J. Riedinger, 64

Michael "Mikey" J. Riedinger, 64 of Kalispell, passed away unexpectedly as a result of a motorcycle accident on Oct. 14, 2023.

Fusion restaurant showcases flavors of Eastern Europe and Central Asia

With dishes like samosas, pilaf, pho, gyros, and dumplings, Chef Yussupov incorporates a wide range of flavor profiles into the menu, and since their grand opening in August, the restaurant is visited by many regular customers.

Logan’s Day of Health Care highlights local health trends, unification with Billings Clinic

Health trends, statewide initiatives and Logan Health’s recent consolidation with Billings Clinic are among the topics slated for discussion at a series of conferences organized by the health care system on Friday.

Man charged for confronting homeless people with gun on Kalispell's Parkline Trail

Kalispell Police officers arrested a 30-year-old man for allegedly confronting homeless people camping along the Parkline Trail with a loaded gun on Oct. 19.

Crab cakes one of most requested recipes

One of the most requested recipes from FVCC’s Culinary Institute of Montana is Chef Howard Karp’s crab cakes.

Legals for October, 25 2023

Joan Marie Ulrich, 87

Joan Marie Ulrich passed away Oct. 19, 2023, in Kalispell, Montana, at the age of 87.

Time for capital investment in Whitefish High athletics

After the failure – by a margin of less than 200 votes – of the proposed bond to support expansion of the Whitefish High School and athletic complex, I’ve heard grumbling in the Whitefish community that seems focused on the proposed athletic complex.

Catherine Rose Raff-Moore, 71

Catherine Rose Raff-Moore, 71, passed away on the morning of Oct. 19, 2023, at her home in Whitefish.

Montana man investigated in disappearance of 14-year-old is arrested on child sex abuse charges

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A 36-year-old man living in Montana with a teenager who mysteriously disappeared from Arizona four years ago has been charged with two felony counts of child sexual abuse based on images found on his phone, authorities said Tuesday.

GOP picks Tom Emmer as its nominee for House speaker but there's no guarantee he can win the gavel

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans picked Rep. Tom Emmer as their nominee for House speaker Tuesday as they try again to fill the top position, but the choice quickly ran into familiar resistance from hard-liners and allies of Donald Trump leaving no guarantee the latest hopeful can win the gavel.

Montana man pleads not guilty to charges that he threatened to kill former House Speaker McCarthy

BILLINGS (AP) — A Montana man pleaded not guilty Tuesday to federal charges that he threatened to assault and murder former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.

Jenna Ellis becomes latest Trump lawyer to plead guilty over efforts to overturn Georgia's election

ATLANTA (AP) — Attorney and prominent conservative media figure Jenna Ellis pleaded guilty on Tuesday to a felony charge over efforts to overturn Donald Trump's 2020 election loss in Georgia, tearfully telling the judge she looks back on that time with "deep remorse."

House Republicans meet privately in search of speaker nominee

WASHINGTON (AP) — Three weeks now since the ouster of Kevin McCarthy, House Republicans are meeting privately Tuesday to try nominating a new House speaker to accomplish the seemingly impossible job of uniting a broken, bitter GOP majority and returning to the work of governing in Congress.

Mayor says West Maui to reopen to tourism on Nov. 1 after fire and workers are ready to return

HONOLULU (AP) — All of West Maui except for burned-out sections of historic Lahaina will reopen to tourism on Nov. 1 following the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than century, the mayor of Maui County said Monday.

In-progress rules target pre-kindergarten literacy

Over the past month, a group of Montana educators has begun hashing out new rules that would make it easier for public school districts to direct state funding toward pre-kindergarten programs for kids who are likely to struggle with reading in their earliest years.

Man arrested outside of shelter injured police officer, prosecutors allege

A Kalispell man accused of fighting with a police officer after allegedly starting fires outside of a local homeless shelter earlier this month is now facing a felony charge in Flathead County District Court.

Law roundup: Man blows up at maintenance worker

A bearded man “who thought he owned the place” was reportedly screaming at a maintenance worker who was outside using a leaf blower. After berating him, the man went back to sit in a gray van and sulked. A tenant told

Cutting red tape to increase housing

The Legislature’s major zoning reforms to increase the supply of affordable housing in Montana have made a lot of news, but there was also another significant pillar of our pro-housing work during the session: cutting red tape.

Women in Iceland including the prime minister go on strike for equal pay and an end to violence

Icelanders awoke to all-male newscaster teams announcing shutdowns across the island nation: schools closed, public transport delayed, hospitals understaffed, hotel rooms uncleaned.

Anders Thompson fifth at Super 32 Challenge

Anders Thompson, a senior at Flathead High School, took fifth place at 190 pounds at the prestigious Super 32 Challenge, a folkstyle wrestling tournament in Greensboro, N.C.

FWP admits to constitutional violations

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks admitted to violating the state constitution by not handing over public documents to a wolf advocacy group and has agreed to a consent decree that aims to ensure it follows the constitution and public meetings laws moving forward.

Busse slams conservative Flathead lawmakers at Kalispell engagement

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Ryan Busse condemned Monday the Gianforte administration for enacting “frightening, evil and antidemocratic” policies, many of which came from Flathead Valley legislators, he said.

21-year-old accused of threatening girlfriend with gun

Prosecutors have filed a felony charge against a Columbia Falls man accused of beating his girlfriend before threatening to kill her with a gun in a Kalispell shopping plaza earlier this month.

Letters to the editor Oct. 24

Letters to the editor Oct. 24

Bobcats Mellott, Johnson land player of week honors

FARMINGTON, Utah — Montana State's dynamic duo of Tommy Mellott and Jon Johnson, along with Weber State's Kyle Thompson, were tabbed as Big Sky Conference football players of the week after their impressive performances this past Saturday.

Coke raises full-year sales forecast after stronger-than-expected third quarter

Coca-Cola raised its full-year revenue forecast Tuesday after a stronger-than-expected third quarter.

Glacier National Park Conservancy outlines projects planned for 2024

The Glacier National Park Conservancy’s projects for 2024 include monitoring alpine and wetland rare plants, improving bear management capacity, continuing vital species studies and fostering partnerships with local tribes.

Gunsight Lake bull trout project raises concerns from conservationist

A conservationist who has worked protecting bull trout says Glacier National Park is “playing God” with Gunsight Lake, a remote lake at the head of the St. Mary River Valley.

El Nino's return could spell dry, warm winter for Western Montana

Above normal temperatures and below average precipitation is projected for Western Montana this winter as a strengthening El Nino climate pattern takes hold for the first time in four years.

Legals for October, 24 2023

Artist renderings of finalized designs of the new Bigfork library

Artist renderings of the new Bigfork library on display at a groundbreaking ceremony for the project.

Gulick throws 5 TD passes for playoff-bound Bulldogs

WHITEFISH — Carson Gulick threw five touchdown passes Friday, two of them to Dane Hunt, and ran for a score as the Whitefish Bulldogs beat Browning 50-14 in Western A football action.

Hamas frees two Israeli women as US advises delaying ground war to allow talks on captives

RAFAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Hamas released two elderly Israeli women held hostage in Gaza on Monday, as the United States expressed increasing concern that the escalating Israel-Hamas war will spark a wider conflict in the region, including attacks on American troops.

First snowfall of season to blanket Flathead Valley on Tuesday

The season’s first winter weather advisory was issued Monday for parts of Northwest Montana as the region enters a stretch of unseasonably cold and snowy days.

Montana among states slated for technology hub

REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. (AP) — The Biden administration is designating 31 technology hubs touching 32 states and Puerto Rico to help spur innovation and create jobs in the industries that are concentrated in these areas.

Charge dropped after suspect in post-game confrontation pays restitution

A Flathead County District Court judge dismissed last month a felony charge against a 41-year-old man for punching another person’s truck outside of a youth football game after he paid restitution.

Convicted child rapist sentenced to prison

Flathead County District Court Judge Robert Allison handed down a partially suspended prison sentence to a convicted child rapist in early August, ordering him to pay about $178,000 in restitution.

Law roundup: Driver nearly hits kid in crosswalk

A loud blue Subaru with a spoiler on the back allegedly almost hit a child in a crosswalk.

Griz win, complete historic regular season

The Montana soccer team completed an unbeaten Big Sky Conference schedule and capped a historic regular season with a 1-0 victory over Portland State on Sunday afternoon on Senior Day at South Campus Stadium in Missoula. Delaney Lou Schorr’s goal in the 51st minute and Ashlyn Dvorak’s 11th shutout of the season gave the Grizzlies a dominant 7-0-1 run through league, the 10th time in Big Sky history a team has gone unbeaten. Five of those have now come from Griz teams over the years.

Chevron buys Hess for $53 billion

Chevron is buying Hess Corp. for $53 billion and it's not even the biggest acquisition in the energy sector this month as major producers seize the initiative while oil prices surge.

Suspect in road rage incident faces felony charge

A Kalispell man is facing a felony charge after allegedly pointing a gun at another motorist in a bout of what authorities described as road rage earlier this month.

Letters to the editor Oct. 23

Letters to the editor Oct. 23

Stillwater Christian boys win MCAA soccer title

Soccer is a banner sport in the Flathead Valley, and a local team has already nailed down a state championship: Stillwater Christian.

Gaza has oil markets on edge. That could build more urgency to shift to renewables, IEA head says

Tensions from the war in Gaza could help accelerate the move away from planet-warming fossil fuels like oil and gas and toward renewable energy, electric cars and heat pumps — similar to how sharp increases in the price of oil during the 1970s unleashed efforts to conserve fuel, the head of the International Energy Agency said.

Cayuse Prairie IT director a ‘multidimensional gal’

Throughout her life, Kiki Moses has been an explorer in search of new pursuits and skills.

Legals for October, 23 2023

Strikes trim profit at GM in an otherwise strong quarter; more losses likely if picketing spreads

And those figures include only factories that are on strike now with less than a third of the company's workforce on the picket lines, so if more plants are added by the United Auto Workers union, the losses will pile up further, CFO Paul Jacobson told reporters.

Bobcats win Top 5 battle

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Quarterback Tommy Mellott ran for 105 yards and two touchdowns, Julius Davis and Jared White each added a rushing touchdown and Montana State beat Sacramento State 42-30 Saturday night in a battle of Top-5 teams in the FCS coaches poll.

Soap, candle shop opens in Columbia Falls

When Leanne Wagner took her family’s yearly beef purchase to the butcher to be processed, her husband told her to ask for every part of the cow. She wasn’t sure what to make of the thick bag of fat they gave back to her.

History exudes quirky diversity

One perk of my job came a year after I started at the Northwest Montana History Museum: I got to go to the Montana History Conference.

Riley Alan Kair, 75

Riley Alan Kair, 75 of Kalispell, passed away on Oct. 6, 2023, at Logan Health Medical Center.

St. Regis tapped to take part in $1 billion hydrogen project

The U.S. Department of Energy last week announced that it would spend up to $1 billion developing the technology in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding of the three states.

New legislation makes city planning more inclusive

Senate Bill 382, also known at The Montana Land Use Planning Act, passed through the Montana Legislature by a margin of 145 votes for to 5 against in April, before being signed into law by Gov. Greg Gianforte in May.

Browning boys heat up; Hardin girls too good for A

It was unseasonably warm at Rebecca Farm for the Montana State Cross Country Championships Saturday, as if the Browning boys needed help heating up.

Alec DeSimone, 101

Alessio "Alec" DeSimone of Danvers, Massachusetts, passed away on Oct. 16, 2023, at the age of 101.

Kalispell Public Schools looks to create charter schools

Kalispell Public Schools plans to submit an applications to the Montana Board of Public for Education for approval to create public charter schools.

Solving septic contamination comes down to convincing homeowners to replace systems

Contamination from failing septic tanks for roughly 50 years has been well-documented as a contributor of pollution in the Flathead Basin. The key to addressing the pervasive issue likely lies in proving to homeowners their system is failing.

Whitefish girls upend Lockwood for trip to chipper

Whitefish knew Lockwood was a tough semifinal draw, but the Bulldogs neutralized the Lions’ top scorer and cruised to a 5-2 win at Smith Fields on Saturday, earning their third Class A final appearance in four years.

Is Montana’s open enrollment policy ‘good enough’?

School choice is essential for improving educational outcomes for students, and open enrollment is a significant part of that choice spectrum.

Experts optimistic about efforts to curtail invasive lake trout

Competition from lake trout in Montana waters continues to cut into the population of native fish, but experts are optimistic that ongoing efforts will manage and potentially reverse the decline.

Legacy furniture meant to be passed down for generations

The custom, hand-made chairs, tables, rockers, and barstools have been referred to by clients as “legacy furniture,” pieces that are made to last and can be passed down for generations.

College of Idaho hands Carroll first loss

Andy Peters stole the show in a battle of nationally ranked teams Saturday in a Frontier Conference matchup that saw No. 9 College of Idaho (7-1, 5-1) beat NO. 6 Carroll 35-21 to hand the Fighting Saints their first loss of the season.

Leland A. Murphy, 90

Leland A. "Lee" Murphy, 90 of Bigfork and Kalispell, died peacefully at his apartment home at the Buffalo Hill Terrace on Sept. 11, 2023, while in the loving care of his family and BHT staff.

Knights, Bison race to AA titles

Flathead has 3 All-State runners, Glacier 2

The State AA cross country landscape has its perennial powers, and it figured that Missoula Hellgate’s girls and Bozeman’s boys would run to state titles Saturday at Rebecca Farm.

Wildkats hold off Bigfork in Class A semifinal clash, 6-4

It was a tale of two halves Saturday at Flip Darling Field. Josie Harris scored a hat trick for Columbia Falls in a dominant first half, then Bigfork’s Paeten Gunlock countered with a hat trick of her own in the second half.

Bozeman edges Bravettes, 1-0

The Bravettes held off Bozeman for as long as they could, but Hadley Brown broke through to give the Hawks a 1-0 win Saturday in their Class AA quarterfinal game.

A slap in the face of Montana’s public land users

Governor Gianforte's veto of Senate Bill 442 hurts hunters, anglers, trail users, and wildlife.

Michael John Sward, 70

Mike Sward, 70, passed away Oct. 4, 2023, at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell.

Legals for October, 22 2023

Jan Margo Ross Livesay, 77

Jan Margo Ross Livesay, born June 1946, passed away Oct. 2023.

Eileen Rollins, 86

Eileen Marie Bucher, born Nov. 23, 1936, the oldest daughter of Valley and Hildegard Bucher, passed on Aug. 31, at Swedish hospital.

Timber tour highlights wood products industry

As a part of manufacturing month in October, the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce hosted a tour of F.H. Stoltze’s facility on Wednesday, providing the opportunity to see inside one of the industries that run the state.

Liquid gold — honey bees produce precious gift

The Flathead Valley has 270 registered beekeepers and as we enter fall many are now preparing to winterize their hives. There are about 650 registered beekeepers in Montana, according to the state Beekeeper Program under the state Department of Agriculture.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Future of ImagineIF left in the hands of 'hope'

Directors of Montana’s largest library systems no longer are required to hold a graduate degree in order for the library to qualify for state funding.

Letters to the editor Oct. 22

Letters to the editor Oct. 22

Law roundup: Caller monkeys around with law enforcement

Someone, who couldn’t stop laughing, called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office claiming their monkey had been gone for two weeks. They

Bulldogs bounce Lone Peak, now final-bound

No team has really challenged Whitefish so far in these playoffs and Lone Peak was no exception. The Bulldogs topped the visiting Bighorns 5-0 in their semifinal game at Smith Fields and are back in the Class A boys soccer finals.

PHOTOS: State cross country championships at Rebecca Farm

Scenes from the state cross country championships held at Rebecca Farm on Saturday, Oct. 21.

Old bell from Talbott School returned, on display at Gateway

In 1973 the Talbott School, first built in 1909, was torn down on Fourth Avenue West in Columbia Falls after it was deemed too expensive to repair, rather than replace.

Fish and Wildlife Commission votes to support purchase of Lower Yellowstone River property

Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission unanimously voted Oct. 19 to approve the acquisition of a new wildlife management area proposed for the Lower Yellowstone River.

Explore Whitefish doubles funding to housing nonprofit

A nonprofit working on affordable and workforce housing issues in Whitefish is set to receive a substantial increase in funding from an optional fee collected at restaurants in the resort town.

Glacier falls to Billings West in PKs

After 100 minutes of play and 17 penalty kicks, the Billings West Golden Bears earned a 2-1 victory over the Glacier Wolfpack in a Class AA soccer quarterfinal Friday night at Legends Stadium.

House Republicans drop Jim Jordan as their nominee for speaker, falling back to square one

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans dropped Rep. Jim Jordan on Friday as their nominee for House speaker, making the decision during a closed-door session after the hard-edged ally of Donald Trump failed badly on a third ballot for the gavel.

House Republicans reject Jim Jordan a third time for the speaker's gavel as opposition deepens

WASHINGTON (AP) — Rep. Jim Jordan failed badly Friday on a third ballot for the House speaker's gavel, rejected by even more Republicans from the conservative mainstream who warned the hard-edged ally of Donald Trump that no threats or promises could win their support.

Lawyer Kenneth Chesebro pleads guilty over efforts to overturn Trump's 2020 loss in Georgia

ATLANTA (AP) — Lawyer Kenneth Chesebro pleaded guilty to a felony on Friday just as jury selection was getting underway in his trial on charges accusing him of participating in efforts to overturn Donald Trump's loss in the 2020 election in Georgia.

Jim Jordan digs in for a third vote for House speaker as Republicans refuse to give him the gavel

WASHINGTON (AP) — The House prepared to vote as Rep. Jim Jordan tried for a third time Friday for the speaker's gavel, digging in for a fight despite deepening opposition from Republican colleagues who are warning the hard-edged ally of Donald Trump that no more threats or promises can win their support.

The White House details its $105 billion funding request for Israel, Ukraine, the border and more

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House on Friday released a sweeping set of proposals to bolster Israel and Ukraine in the midst of two wars as well as invest more in domestic defense manufacturing, humanitarian assistance and managing the influx of migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Scorsese's epic 'Killers of the Flower Moon' is sweeping tale of greed, richly told

There tends to be lots of fast talking and fast moving in Martin Scorsese films, often from shifty types trying to get away with something.

Presley, Wolfpack rally past Sentinel

Jackson Presley’s three second-half touchdown passes ended Missoula Sentinel’s win streak over Glacier at six games Thursday.

PHOTOS: Strong second half sends Glacier past Sentinel, 27-17

Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack's 27-17 win over the Missoula Sentinel Spartans at Legends Stadium on Thursday, Oct. 19.

Law roundup: Mustang bears brunt of collision with bruin

Bearing the brunt of a collision with a bruin on Railroad Street, a white Ford Mustang was left with heavy front-end damage.

Legals for October, 20 2023

Wildlife officials hopeful about decline of chronic wasting disease in Libby

The prevalence of chronic wasting disease in Libby continues to slowly decrease since the outbreak was detected in 2019, according to state wildlife officials.

Lions Club’s 2023 ornament sale dates set

The Kalispell Lions Club’s sixth annual Christmas ornament fundraiser will begin Friday, Nov. 3.

Marcia Brickey (Rasmussen), 66

Marcia Lynn Smith Brickey Rasmussen, 66, died on Oct. 14, 2023.

Lily Gladstone eyes the future after breakout role on Scorsese epic 'Killers of the Flower Moon'

Last February, Rene Haynes was standing in line at a Los Angeles Costco when her phone buzzed. She didn’t recognize the number, but as a Hollywood casting director, she’s used to urgent calls from strange numbers at all hours of the day. This one was from a fellow casting director, Mark Bennett. He was looking for Native actors to audition for a lead role in an independent film set in Montana.

Class AA soccer: Bravettes hit the road; Glacier boys home at Legends

The Flathead Bravettes soccer team played Glacier three times this fall and beat them three times, one of those being a pretty important game.

Jhoushua MacNair, 38

Jhoushua MacNair, 38, passed away in a tragic car accident the evening of Oct. 3, 2023.

Wastewater leaks ‘far in excess’ at Holland Lake: DEQ

State regulators flagged a wastewater system that serves Holland Lake Lodge and the public campground as leaking “far in excess” of the amount allowed as the private resort goes back on the market.

Barbara Ruth Mann, 73

Barbara Ruth Barney, 73, born Dec. 13, 1949, in Grand Forks, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on Sept. 29, 2023, in Western Montana.

Class A soccer: Columbia Falls, Whitefish host to semifinal games

This weekend there are Class A soccer semifinal games in Whitefish, just as there has been for most of the past six postseasons.

Stella Sharp, 96

Stella Alice Bjornrud Sharp, 96, passed away on Oct. 13, 2023, in Libby, Montana.

Flathead flattens Hellgate, 48-12

Missoula Hellgate had the hot start but Flathead had the big finish Thursday, with Brett Pesola leading the Braves to a 48-12 football win over the Knights at MCPS Stadium.

State wildlife commissions moves forward with restrictions on Half-Moon Slough

The state Fish and Wildlife Commission voted to move forward with the process of enacting a no-wake zone at Half Moon Slough, but denied a similar petition regarding Lake Five on Thursday.

Doubling up: Standout Flathead runner Rumsey Eash added soccer to her duties this fall

Lilli Rumsey Eash is a good-bordering on-great cross country runner who came into 2023 with three All-State finishes to her credit.

Protecting water quality rises to top at lakes conference

Hosted by the Whitefish Lake Institute every four years, the conference brings together professionals from different sectors, including students and community members.

Richard Earl Keller, 74

Richard Earl Keller, 74, was born Jan. 23, 1949, in Kalispell to Percy and Ella Keller.

State cross country: Backyard battle in Class A

Rebecca Farm is host to the 60th Montana State Cross Country Championships Saturday, and for the first time since 2020.

Brad Johnson announces Republican bid for Montana US Senate seat

Brad Johnson, the former Public Service Commission chair and Montana secretary of state, announced Tuesday he is entering the Republican primary for Montana’s U.S. Senate seat held by Sen. Jon Tester.

GOP's Jordan will back a temporary House speaker as he tries to shore up support, lawmakers say

WASHINGTON (AP) — Refusing to drop out, Republican Rep. Jim Jordan told GOP colleagues Thursday he will back a temporary U.S. House speaker as he works to shore up support to win the gavel himself.

Sidney Powell pleads guilty in case over efforts to overturn Trump's Georgia loss and gets probation

ATLANTA (AP) — Lawyer Sidney Powell pleaded guilty to reduced charges Thursday over efforts to overturn Donald Trump's loss in the 2020 election in Georgia, becoming the second defendant in the sprawling case to reach a deal with prosecutors.

Columbia Falls man booked on negligent homicide charge for allegedly running over ex-wife

Authorities on Wednesday arrested a Columbia Falls man who prosecutors say ran over his ex-wife in Martin City last June and then fled the scene.

A big stinkin' ordeal

Skunks love autumn as our backyard gardens fill up with ripe vegetables.

Columbia Falls Chamber holds Harvestfest

The Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce will hold a Harvestfest celebration on Saturday, Oct. 21 in Hungry Horse at Canyon Elementary School.

Ruby Otis Levitt, 93

Ruby "Tiny" Otis Levitt, 93, died Oct. 5, 2023.

Funding for drought monitoring awarded to Montana

Montana will receive $5.5 million in federal funding for increased soil moisture and snowpack monitoring to help prepare for drought and wildfire conditions.

Teen accused of wielding brass knuckles in fight faces felony charge

A 19-year-old from Kalispell faces a felony assault charge for allegedly beating a teenager with brass knuckles during a mid-September melee in Whitefish.

‘Cats’ will overrun stage this weekend for ATP Kids production

More than 100 Flathead Valley students will prowl about Whitefish Performing Arts Center this weekend in an ATP Kids production of Broadway juggernaut — “Cats.”

UM students create virtual reality hunting tool to advance stewardship

University of Montana student Aidan Sweet grabbed a hunting tag off an ATV, selected a rifle and range finder and walked down a trail in search of an elk.

Fish and Wildlife Commission to consider new regulations for Half Moon Slough, Lake Five

The state Fish and Wildlife Commission is expected to decide Thursday whether to move forward with boating restrictions on Half-Moon Slough and Lake Five.

North Valley Music School hosts event looking behind music hits

North Valley Music School presents The Heroes Behind The Hits — Music and Tales from the Legends of Rock & Roll with by musician Jimmy Ryan Oct. 25.

Wai Mizutani performs challenging violin pieces in solo concert

The Music of Legends series continues with a solo concert by renowned violinist Wai Mizutani in All the World’s His Stage.

New Horizons Band plays concert Oct. 19

The Flathead New Horizons Band is returning after a two-year hiatus with a concert on Oct. 19.

Fall dance and music lineup takes stage at Wachholz College Center

A Flamenco dance showcase and a mix of soul, folk and country music is on tap this fall at the Wachholz College Center.

Martin City man earns suspended sentence after taking plea deal

A Martin City man arrested after allegedly dragging a man down a Columbia Falls street in March earned a suspended one-year sentence in Flathead County District Court last month.

FVCC play explores the meaning of living

Flathead Valley Community College's Theatre Department presents the play “Everybody” by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins beginning this month.

Kalispell City Council moves ahead with housing grant application

Kalispell City Council voted to apply for a $1.36 million U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development grant at its Monday meeting, simultaneously criticizing the state Legislature’s recent efforts to address Montana’s housing crisis.

Donald L. Groves, 91

Donald L. Groves, 91, passed away on Oct. 13, 2023, at his home in Kalispell.

Letters to the editor Oct. 19

Letters to the editor Oct. 19

Legals for October, 19 2023

Couple allowed to winterize disputed home in Glacier National Park

The Flathead Conservation District last week voted to allow a couple to winterize a home that it believes was built illegally in Glacier National Park.

Act a crucial step toward curbing patent abuse

The pharmaceutical industry is renowned for its breakthrough therapies that have saved countless lives.

Dysfunctional Forest Service needs an attitude adjustment

I recently read the article “Stimson Lumber owner expresses criticism of U. S. Forest Service” (CEO Andrew Miller) with great interest. After being in the logging, sawmill and forestry business for about 50 years, I appreciated his comments. It’s about time! Thank You.

Law roundup: It pays to sew, people

A woman told the Kalispell Police Department she paid someone $15 to sew a button on a shirt they gave to someone else who came into the business. She also complained about another fashion crime the person was committing of double-charging her for items at the business.

Popular sequel ‘Bride of Frankenstein’ on screen

The film screens 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24, at the Northwest Montana History Museum.

Testing changes come to Montana students

Testing changes are coming to Montana's students, including reinstating GED certificates and replacing state standardized exams for third- through eighth-graders.

Inuit soul music and culture comes to the Flathead

Alaska ensemble Pamyua will showcase Inuit culture through modern performance for one night only in Whitefish on Oct. 27.

Western A: compelling, mystifying

High school football’s regular season is winding down across Montana, and in this corner of the state, the second-highest classification has some explaining to do.

Wolfpack welcomes Spartans; Flathead on road to play Hellgate

The Missoula Sentinel Spartans haven’t gone anywhere: The 2020-21 State AA champions still have a battle-hardened quarterback, a pair of Division I receivers and talent besides.

Glacier’s Henry Sellards is everything you’d want in a left tackle

At 6-foot-5 and 280 pounds, Henry Sellards seems to have popped out of a left tackle mold and onto the gridiron for the Glacier Wolfpack.

Alleged attempted stabbing in Kalispell ends with arrest

A woman accused of trying to stab another person in downtown Kalispell over the weekend faces an assault with a weapon charge in Flathead County District Court.

Biden says Israel has agreed to allow humanitarian assistance to move into Gaza from Egypt

TEL AVIV, Israel to (AP) — President Joe Biden said Wednesday that Israel had agreed to allow humanitarian assistance to begin flowing into Gaza from Egypt, with the understanding it would be subject to inspections and that it should go to civilians and not Hamas militants.

Gianforte, state health department sued over refusal to release public documents

The Helena-based nonprofit law firm Upper Seven filed a lawsuit Tuesday against Gov. Greg Gianforte and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, alleging the state has concealed information related to its compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws.

Former state auditor and previous federal magistrate running in Chief Justice race

Both former state auditor John Morrison and former federal magistrate Jeremiah Lynch filed to run for Montana Supreme Court Chief Justice seat, according to the Montana Commissioner of Political Practices website.

Candidate for Whitefish City Council Nancy Schuber

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Whitefish City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Candidate for Whitefish City Council Nathan Dugan

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Whitefish City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Flathead County enters agreement on south Kalispell property for future jail

Flathead County is looking at a 114-acre piece of property south of Kalispell as a possible location for a future detention facility.

Drought raises concerns for Libby water supply

Libby City Administrator Sam Sikes said the city is completing an engineering report to identify infrastructure upgrades, working with the U.S. Forest Service on hydrology projects and will consider state and federal grants to increase water storage capacity.

Candidate for Whitefish City Council Jim Ramlow

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Whitefish City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Judith Anna Huber-Cogswell, 76

Judith "Judy" Anna Huber-Cogswell, 76, passed away on Oct. 14, 2023.

Law roundup: Thrift store not in the market for donated weapons

A thrift store volunteer called the Whitefish Police Department looking for advice on what to do with a donated dagger-like weapon.

Woman accused of stabbing father faces felony assault charge

Prosecutors have charged a Flathead Valley woman with felony assault with a weapon after she allegedly stabbed her father below the armpit during an Oct. 12 disagreement in a motorhome outside Kalispell.

Big Sky notes: Get ready for Big Sky After Dark II

Big Sky Conference After Dark put on a great show last Saturday; it figures to do the same this weekend.

Candidate for Whitefish City Council Steve Qunell

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Whitefish City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Candidate for Whitefish City Council Rebecca Norton

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Whitefish City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Fence aside, Riverside Park retains access to prime fishing hole

A settlement over a city park in Columbia Falls doesn’t impact access to a good fishing hole on the Flathead River, provided anglers stay in the Red Bridge right of way.

Thompson named Big Sky Player of the Week

Montana junior Skyleigh Thompson, who totaled five points on the Grizzlies’ recent road sweep of Northern Arizona and Northern Colorado, was named the Big Sky Conference Offensive Player of the Week on Tuesday.

Bravettes oust Glacier, 2-0

The Bravettes are Bozeman-bound after a 2-0 win over Glacier in Class AA playoff soccer on Tuesday at Legends Field.

Karen Whalen, 71

Karen Marie Whalen, 71, passed away Oct. 8, 2023, at her home in Creston.

Candidate for Whitefish City Council Frank Sweeney

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Whitefish City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Candidate for Whitefish City Council Kent Taylor

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Whitefish City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Legals for October, 18 2023

Blast kills hundreds at Gaza hospital; Hamas and Israel trade blame

A massive blast rocked a Gaza City hospital packed with wounded and other Palestinians seeking shelter Tuesday, killing hundreds of people, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said.

Republicans reject Rep. Jim Jordan for House speaker

Signaling more turmoil ahead, Republicans rejected Rep. Jim Jordan for House speaker on a first ballot Tuesday, as a surprising 20 holdouts denied the hard-charging ally of Donald Trump the GOP majority needed to seize the gavel.

Conman pleads guilty to bilking Kalispell resident with computer-based scam

A 24-year-old from India admitted in federal court Tuesday to stealing about $150,000 from a Kalispell resident through a computer-based con.

Holland Lake Lodge up for sale

Holland Lake Lodge is back on the market — for $3.5 million.

Law roundup: Sketchy stop grinds driver’s gears

The driver of a red Volvo station wagon allegedly blew through a stop sign and told another driver, who confronted him about it, that he would “kill him with his skateboard.”

Prosperity smothered by money

The housing crisis in Montana continues. We have unknown hundreds if not thousands of people camping in our streets. Rents and home prices have reached the point of hopelessness. We are reaching a state of emergency.

Legals for October, 17 2023

Letters to the editor Oct. 17

Letters to the editor Oct. 17

Montana Lakes Conference dives into threats to waterbodies

The Montana Lakes Conference will examine these topics and others during sessions at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake beginning on Wednesday, Oct. 18.

State licenses PragerU for classrooms, watchdog weary of ‘extremist’ content

Montana Office of Public Instruction licensed PragerU, known for videos misrepresenting history and pushing false right-wing narratives, to provide educational content to schools in the state, should school boards adopt them.

Meyer, Glasgow lead Grizzlies’ awards haul

MISSOULA — A stifling defensive performance and a perfect day kicking have led the Montana Grizzlies to a pair of Big Sky Player of the Week honors, after defeating Idaho in Moscow over the weekend to bring the Little Brown Stein back to UM.

The Supreme Court orders makers of gun parts to comply with rules on ghost guns

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Monday ordered two internet sellers of gun parts to comply with a Biden administration regulation aimed at ghost guns, firearms that are difficult to trace because they lack serial numbers.

Humanitarian aid is stuck at Gaza-Egypt border as Israeli siege strains hospitals, water supply

RAFAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Truckloads of aid idled at Egypt's border with Gaza on Monday, as residents and humanitarian groups pleaded for water, food, and fuel for dying generators, saying the tiny Palestinian territory sealed off by Israel after last week's rampage by Hamas was near total collapse.

Montana FWP chief of operations on administrative leave

Mike Volesky, the chief of operations for the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, was put on administrative leave last week after he was cited for hunting without permission in Lewis and Clark County, according to a department spokesperson.

Trump has narrow gag order imposed on him by federal judge overseeing 2020 election subversion case

WASHINGTON (AP) — The federal judge overseeing the 2020 election subversion case against Donald Trump in Washington imposed a narrow gag order on him on Monday, barring the Republican former president from making statements targeting prosecutors, possible witnesses and the judge's staff.

FBI report: Violent crime decreases to pre-pandemic levels, but property crime is on the rise

ST. LOUIS (AP) — Violent crime across the U.S. decreased last year — dropping to about the same level as before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic — but property crimes rose substantially, according to data in the FBI's annual crime report released Monday.

Hezbollah destroys Israeli surveillance cameras along the Lebanese border as tension soars

BEIRUT (AP) — Lebanon's militant Hezbollah group said Monday it has started destroying surveillance cameras on several Israeli army posts along the border as tension rose following the Israel-Hamas war that began Oct.7.

Law roundup: Driver hands out beers after accident

People had a blasé attitude about a woman hitting a car in front of her. The person

The ancient ways of natural wine are finding new fans

Natural wine — which emphasizes sustainability and minimal processing — is seeing growing interest in the U.S even though overall wine consumption has been declining since 2015, according to IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, a research firm.

Letters to the editor Oct. 16

Letters to the editor Oct. 16

Used clothing from the West is a big seller in East Africa

Downtown Kampala's Owino Market has long been a go-to enclave for rich and poor people alike looking for affordable but quality-made used clothes, underscoring perceptions that Western fashion is superior to what is made at home.

Births

Births

Bereavement doula helps families navigate grief

Navigating life after death is difficult and nuanced, especially when it involves the death of an infant.

Legals for October, 16 2023

Kalispell City Council to host public hearing on federal housing grant

If the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing grant is awarded, city officials are planning on spending $200,000 toward a housing study, $363,66 to a growth policy, zoning and subdivision update, and $400,000 each to water and wastewater facility plans.

Birkenstock stumbles on Wall Street as investors find sandal maker's shares too pricey

Some traders on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange donned the iconic opened-toed footwear, and Birkenstock CEO Oliver Reichert rang the opening bell, with people around him waving sandals in the air.

Whitefish Council looks to increase impact fees

Whitefish City Council on Monday will consider approving a significant increase in the impact fees it collects on new development and in a related decision whether it plans to expand City Hall within the next decade.

Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford calls on autoworkers to end strike, says company's future is at stake

In a rare speech during contract talks in the company's hometown of Dearborn, Michigan, Ford said high labor costs could limit spending to develop new vehicles and invest in factories.

Griz outlast Idaho, take Little Brown Stein

Montana quarterback Clifton McDowell threw for one score and ran for another, and the No. 10 Grizzlies made a 17-0 lead hold up for a 23-21 upset of No. 3 Idaho Saturday, in a Big Sky Conference and FCS showdown at the sold-out Kibbie Dome Saturday.

Two die in separate crashes Saturday

Two men from Kalispell and Libby died in separate crashes Saturday.

McDowell, No. 10 Montana hold off No. 3 Idaho, 23-21

Clifton McDowell threw a touchdown pass and ran for a TD, Grant Glasgow kicked three field goals and Montana held on to beat Idaho 23-21 Saturday night in a battle of two of the top teams in the Football Championship Subdivision.

Montana PSC's Pinocci arrested on felony witness tampering charges

Montana Public Service Commissioner Randy Pinocci was arrested in Great Falls Friday on two felony witness tampering charges related to an ongoing investigation into a disorderly conduct allegation that previously landed him in jail last month.

Letters to the editor Oct. 15

Letters to the editor Oct. 15

Briefs: Pitching boot camp; Mohl homers for Griz

Prospective baseball pitchers age 11-18 in the area are encouraged to join the Flathead Valley 1-Pitch Warrior Boot Camp, an every-Sunday camp that begins Oct. 29 and ends Dec. 10.

Truman, Butts set records in Lions’ win

It was a record-setting Friday night for Eureka Lions AJ Truman and Tristan Butts, who hooked up on three touchdown passes in a 45-7 Western B football win over Whitehall.

Holly Virginia McAllister, 81

Holly Virginia McAllister, 81

Schwinden remembered as a great Montanan

Ted Schwinden was a great man.

Past and present — Cayuse Prairie School marks 125 years of learning

On Sept. 23, past and present students and staff crossed paths and shared smiles in the hallways of Cayuse Prairie School during the district’s 125th anniversary celebration.

Legals for October, 15 2023

Glacier boys win first Western AA soccer title

The Wolfpack clinched the Western AA conference title Friday after an 11-3 victory in Butte, halting Missoula Hellgate’s decade-long run as conference champion. It is also Glacier’s first ever conference title.

Whitefish blanks Rams

Bulldog boys shut out Livingston

Delaney Smith and Olivia Genovese each scored twice and the Whitefish Bulldogs dispatched the Billings Central Rams 4-0 on Saturday in a Class A soccer quarterfinal at Smith Fields.

Bravettes win second crosstown game

The Flathead Bravettes secured the No. 4 seed in Western AA with a 3-2 win over crosstown rival Glacier on Thursday at Legends Stadium.

Carol Carr, 88

Carol Carr

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

FVCC holds training on ponderosa pine trees

Flathead Valley Community College's Natural Resource Conservation and Management students are hosting a training for a new citizen science mapping effort to investigate the health of ponderosa pine trees in the Flathead Valley.

Kalispell man replicates a stretch of local railroad history

Sitting in Steve Horvath’s Kalispell garage is an accurate model of the old rail line running through Kalispell, a project he started nearly nine years ago.

Chambers, Mellott carry Cats over Cal Poly

Montana State is getting back to its full complement of quarterbacks. Senior Sean Chambers ran for three touchdowns, including another long burst, and junior Tommy Mellott threw for two scores in limited action as Montana State swamped Cal Poly Saturday, 59-19.

Freshman rallies Idaho State to 42-41 win over E. Washington

Hunter Hays scored untouched on a 1-yard quarterback draw with 52 seconds left and Idaho State, led by a career day from freshman quarterback Jordan Cooke, ended a 12-game losing streak to Eastern Washington with a 42-41 win on Saturday night.

No. 7 Carroll storms back late to beat Eastern Oregon on the road

The Fighting Saints shook off a slow start to beat the Mountaineers 14-6 on the road after being held scoreless through three quarters.

Browning boys hold off C-Falls at Western A Fall Classic

Browning’s boys cross country team showed its championship mettle Saturday, beating a crowded Western A Fall Classic field at King Ranch Golf Course.

Valkyries stun top-seeded Laurel

In a weekend filled with unexpected results, Bigfork’s 3-2 win over Eastern No. 1 seed Laurel in a Class A soccer quarterfinal on Saturday might have been the most shocking.

Harris, McAtee lead Wildkats over Hamilton

HAMILTON — Josie Harris and Hope McAtee teamed up to lift the Columbia Falls Wildkats to a 2-0 win over Southern No. 1 seed Hamilton in a Class A soccer quarterfinal on Saturday.

Law roundup: Salesman in hot water with stolen spa

The most expensive hot tub on a sales lot was allegedly stolen during the night after an employee did an inventory count.

Lakes conference a good chance to learn

From the hundreds of pristine alpine lakes in Glacier National Park, to the vast expanses of Flathead and Whitefish lakes, and Hungry Horse and Koocanusa reservoirs, no geographical feature better defines Northwest Montana than the area’s numerous waterbodies.

Anti-immigrant flyers provokes swift denouncement

Montana human rights activists say a known white supremacist group with chapters around the country is behind racist and anti-immigrant flyers distributed in the Flathead Valley this month.

Zoning reforms will help solve Montana’s housing crisis

There have been dozens of news articles celebrating the historic pro-housing reforms passed in the 2023 Legislature. Many of those national stories call the package of legislation “the Montana Miracle.”

Montana children suffer amid Medicaid unwinding

Watching a child battle cancer is incredibly hard, but watching a child forgo cancer treatment because he lost insurance coverage is devastating. This is the reality that some Montana families are facing.

Meet Ward 4 candidate for Kalispell City Council Sid Daoud

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Kalispell City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Glacier High students inducted into National Honor Society

Seventy-nine Glacier High School students have been inducted into the school’s chapter of the National Honor Society.

FVCC events raise over $400,000 for student scholarships

The Flathead Valley Community College Foundation hosted its 16th annual fall Festival of Flavors events from Sept. 29 through Oct. 7. Between these and events throughout the year, the community raised a total of $400,000 for student scholarships.

Presentation explores historic trails

Eureka author Darris Flanagan will explain why Kootenai Indians spurned today's highway and railroad passes when traveling to the buffalo country of the Great Plains during a presentation on Monday, Oct. 16.

Bigfork company creates custom signs it ships around the world

Owners Loyd and Laura Meissenburg have owned and operated the made-in-Montana company for 33 years and ship out tens of thousands signs annually.

William Parson, 85

William Parson, 85

Montana man to return home from hospital weeks after grizzly bear bit off lower jaw

A Montana man who was mauled by a grizzly bear that bit off the front of his lower jaw is ready to return home after five weeks in a Utah hospital, a physician and his family said Friday during a news conference.

Schweikert leads C-Falls over Bigfork

BIGFORK — Columbia Falls quarterback Cody Schweikert threw for 377 yards and two touchdowns, and ran for 172 yards and four more scores as the Wildcats outscored Bigfork 51-30 in a Western A football battle Friday.

Transgender, intersex Montanans challenge law defining ‘sex’ as binary

Attorneys for a group of transgender and intersex Montanans said this week that they have filed a lawsuit challenging a new law that enshrines binary, reproduction-based definitions for “male,” “female” and “sex” across the state’s legal code.

Montana prep football scores Friday, Oct. 13

Montana prep football scores Friday, Oct. 13

Education advocates sue 56 counties over property tax dispute

A coalition of education advocates filed a lawsuit Wednesday against all 56 Montana counties, asking the Montana Supreme Court to issue an emergency order curtailing a tax revolt that has many county commissions refusing to collect the full amount of the state’s “95 mill” school equalization property tax.

Biden signs law allowing school-based hunter education

Kalispell schools can once again offer archery classes after President Joe Biden signed into law a bill that ensures federal funds can be spent on school hunter education classes.

Flathead football falls, 28-7

A mysterious band of football players put together a workmanlike, 28-7 football win over the Flathead Braves Friday. According to the schedule it was Helena Capital.

PHOTOS: Flathead falls to Capital, 28-7

Photos from the Flathead Braves' 28-7 loss to the Helena Capital Bruins at Legends Stadium on Friday, Oct. 13.

Standoff ends with arrest, felony charge

A 60-year-old man who engaged local law enforcement in an hours-long standoff after breaking into an Aspen Court home Oct. 12 is facing a felony burglary charge in Flathead County District Court.

911 calls from deadly Lahaina wildfire show residents' terror and panic in a desperate bid to escape

LAHAINA, Hawaii (AP) — Audio of 911 calls from a deadly August wildfire released late Thursday by Maui County authorities reveals a terrifying and chaotic scene as the inferno swept through the historic town of Lahaina and people desperately tried to escape burning homes and flames licking at cars in gridlocked traffic.

Palestinians flee northern Gaza after Israel orders 1 million to evacuate as ground attack looms

JERUSALEM (AP) — Palestinians began a mass exodus from northern Gaza Friday after Israel's military told some 1 million people to evacuate toward the southern part of the besieged territory, an unprecedented order ahead of an expected ground invasion against the ruling Hamas militant group.

GOP's Scalise ends his bid to become House speaker as Republican holdouts refuse to back the nominee

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Steve Scalise ended his bid to become House speaker late Thursday after hardline holdouts refused to back the party's nominee, throwing the GOP majority into deeper chaos and leaving the chamber still unable to function.

Harrell Forest Community Trails open to the public

The Harrell Forest Community Trail system, a 238-acre recreational area outside of Bigfork, is now open to the public.

Wolfpack pull away from Eagles, 56-21

Kobe Dorcheus ran for three touchdowns, Cohen Kastelitz caught two scoring passes and Glacier pulled away from a 14-14 tie to beat Missoula Big Sky 56-21 in Western AA football Thursday.

Meet Ward 3 candidate for Kalispell City Council Ryan Hunter

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Kalispell City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Meet Ward 3 candidate for Kalispell City Council Kevin Aurich

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Kalispell City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Strong on the outside: Brody Thornsberry has been a consistent threat for the Flathead Braves

Second-year coach Caleb Aland is striving to steady the Flathead High football program, one that — including Aland — hired three head coaches in four seasons.

Golan keys Wildcats offense on playoff run

Kai Golan might be the quieter one off the soccer field, but on it, he’s impossible to miss. His mix of explosive speed and scoring ability has made him not just the top scorer in the state and a key part of the Columbia Falls Wildcats offense.

Braves bring Bruins back to Legends

Looking toward Friday’s Western AA football matchup with Helena Capital, Flathead coach Caleb Aland figures the Bruins probably got their bad game at Legends Stadium out of the way.

Stillwater Free Lutheran Church opens new activity center

After four years of construction, Stillwater Free Lutheran Church, located at 1401 Church Drive, will be dedicating its new activity center to the glory of God on Sunday, Oct. 15, following the 9:30 a.m. worship service.

Community asked to fill out survey for superintendent search

Kalispell Public Schools is asking the public to complete a survey that will help guide the district as it seeks a new superintendent.

Law roundup: Chilling screaming prompts call to the police

Hearing disembodied screams on Fifth Street, a concerned resident phoned the Columbia Falls Police Department and asked for officers to meet them.

Whitefish Emergency Services Center open house is Sunday

The Whitefish Fire Department is celebrating Fire Prevention Week with an Open House on Sunday, Oct. 15.

Logan Health fundraising event is Oct. 18

Logan Health on Oct. 18 will hold the Imagine a Day fundraiser, a 24-hour virtual giving event.

Sawyer FG lifts Pirates past ‘Dogs in OT

Lucian Sawyer’s 23-yard field goal in overtime lifted the Polson Pirates over Whitefish 29-26 Thursday, in an important Western A football battle.

State commission moves to strike standard for library directors

The Montana State Library Commission voted Wednesday to strike a longstanding professional requirement applied to the directors of Montana’s eight largest libraries, one that dictates whether those libraries qualify for state funding.

Legals for October, 13 2023

Judge hears arguments from TikTok and content creators who are challenging Montana's ban on app

MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — TikTok and Montana faced off in federal court on Thursday in a case filed by the video sharing app and five Montana content creators who want the court to temporarily block the state's ban on the platform before it takes effect Jan. 1.

Science, sound and space combine in symphony and film Experience

Promising to be the “ultimate fusion of science and sound,” Glacier Symphony Orchestra and Chorale presents The Planets and Outer Space Film Experience event this weekend.

The Wachholz gets festive with holiday lineup

Get into a festive spirit with a holiday-inspired lineup at the Wachholz College Center including the iconic Mannheim Steamroller ensemble, Tower of Power and Straight No Chaser.

Suspect in assault case given suspended sentence to county jail

Prosecutors initially brought Jon William Ambjor, 64, up on a felony assault with a weapon charge in Flathead County District Court following his June 26 arrest. He pleaded not guilty at his July 13 arraignment before Judge Amy Eddy.

Flathead harriers sweep Glacier Invitational meet

Three out of four went the Flathead cross country program Wednesday, sweeping the team titles and boasting the overall boys winner at the Glacier Invitational meet at Rebecca Farm.

Meet Ward 2 candidate for Kalispell City Council Sam Nunnally

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Kalispell City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Suspended sentences handed down to arson suspect

Judge Amy Eddy handed down suspended five-year sentences with the state Department of Corrections to Lawrence Stephen Chain, 65, for two felony counts of criminal endangerment Oct. 5.

‘Ring of Fire’ solar eclipse to grace U.S. skies this weekend

A special astronomical event will grace the skies this weekend as just about everyone in the Western Hemisphere is treated to varying degrees of an annular solar eclipse.

Jewish community rallies in support of Israel after deadly attack

In a show of solidarity and unity with Israel, Chabad Lubavitch of the Flathead Valley organized an evening vigil Tuesday through the Torah, prayer and charity.

Cast of 1000s put Savik on Legends Wall

Lew Savik, 82 years old and officially now a Legend, was asked how he was doing the other day.

Sip and Sample Autumn Stroll is Saturday

My Glacier Village, a local nonprofit serving area seniors, is hosting the 2023 Sip and Sample Autumn Stroll through downtown Kalispell on Saturday, Oct. 14, 1-5:30 p.m.

Legals for October, 12 2023

Death at addiction treatment center puts admissions on hold

State inspectors have required one of Montana’s largest substance use disorder treatment providers to stop accepting new patients following the September death of a patient. A complaint-based investigation by the state health department is underway.

Glacier packs up to take on Big Sky

As the Glacier Wolfpack wound up preparation for a Thursday road game against Missoula Big Sky, coach Grady Bennett was thinking long-term and short.

Meet Ward 2 candidate for Kalispell City Council Gabe Dillon

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Kalispell City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Law roundup: Just drop off the key, Lee

A woman’s ex-boyfriend was allegedly attempting to kick her out of an apartment by having the locks changed.

Legislatures can end congressional malfeasance

A New York Times headline on June 16, 2023 said “U.S. National Debt Tops $32 Trillion for First Time.”

Letters to the editor Oct. 12

Letters to the editor Oct. 12

Bear euthanized near Eureka; cubs sent to ZooMontana

A grizzly bear was captured and euthanized after multiple conflicts with people in the Eureka area in Lincoln County, state wildlife officials said.

Glacier holds off Bravettes

Though the Bravettes looked like the better team for a lot of the night, Glacier surged back to win the Crosstown volleyball battle 18-25, 25-22, 25-18, 25-17 in Western AA play on Tuesday at the Flathead High gym.

Big Sky Notes: Little Brown (low-calorie) Stein

The Little Brown Stein is at stake this weekend, and if you wondered how the traveling trophy for which the Montana Grizzlies and Idaho Vandals battle came about, well, Libby’s own Jerek Wolcott is here to help.

Joleen Kay Burch, 75

Joleen Kay Burch

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home donates to veterans

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home has made a $1,000 donation to the United Veterans of the Flathead Valley.

Elizabeth Ann Uskoski, 60

Elizabeth Ann Uskoski

Pack swamps Sentinel

Glacier scored three goals in the second half to beat Missoula Sentinel 5-1 in Western AA boys soccer on Tuesday.

Coconut macaroons hit the spot

There’s something about the crisp-to-chewy ratio and that lightly caramelized coconut around the crust and the edges.

Tracing the history of Medicine Rock in Rollins

Medicine Rock — or Skinkuts Rock as referred to by members of the Kootenai Tribe — is the site of a battle between the Blackfeet and Kootenai.

Drunk driver accused of flashing gun pleads guilty to misdemeanors

A drunk driver arrested for allegedly flashing a gun at another motorist near Lilac Loop over the summer changed his plea in Flathead County District Court last week after striking a deal with prosecutors.

Inquiries into Banned Books Week decision at ImagineIF lead to more questions

Questions have arisen about the circumstances of ImagineIF Libraries' decision to depart from the American Library Association after the move was cited as a reason to forgo the annual Banned Books Week celebration this year.

Legals for October, 11 2023

Man accused of exposing himself at youth fields sent to prison

The man arrested for allegedly exposing himself at youth athletic fields in Kalispell last spring is now serving a stint inside Montana State Prison

Lincoln County votes to lower school property tax mill collection

At the Oct. 4 commissioners meeting, the vote was unanimous on a resolution to reduce the mill levy from 95 to 77.9 for the 2024 fiscal year.

Herb and Omni offers five-star experience in Whitefish

The Whitefish building seated on the corner of Central Avenue and First Street took on a new look this summer and is now serving up what the owners hope will be a five-star dining experience.

Second felony incest charge filed against Kalispell man accusing of sexual abuse

Prosecutors earlier this month filed a second felony incest charge against a Kalispell man accused of sexually abusing a teenage non-blood relative in 2022.

Meet Ward 1 candidate for Kalispell City Council Kari Sue Gabriel

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Kalispell City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Bravettes tie Big Sky

The Bravettes worked to a 3-3 tie with Missoula Big Sky in Western AA girls soccer on Thursday.

Meet Ward 1 candidate for Kalispell City Council Wes Walker

The Daily Inter Lake reached out to Kalispell City Council candidates running in the Nov. 7 municipal election. The information below was provided by the candidates and edited for spelling, punctuation and space.

Law roundup: The garage sale that keeps on giving

Someone wanted to know if they “had the right” to go talk with a neighbor who was purportedly holding a perpetual garage sale.

Kalispell City Council leans toward putting $4.6M levy before voters

Kalispell City Council during a Monday work session leaned toward selecting the costliest emergency responder levy option to put before voters in the near future.

Biden condemns Hamas for 'sheer evil' in attack on Israel

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Tuesday condemned the militant group Hamas for “sheer evil” for its shocking multipronged attack on Israel launched from the Gaza Strip that has killed hundreds of civilians, including at least 14 American citizens.

Biden interviewed as part of the special counsel investigation into handling of classified documents

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden has been interviewed as part of an independent investigation into his handling of classified documents, the White House said late Monday. It's a possible sign that the investigation is nearing its end.

Israel pounds Gaza neighborhoods, as people scramble for safety in sealed-off territory

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli warplanes hammered the Gaza Strip neighborhood by neighborhood on Tuesday, reducing buildings to rubble and sending people scrambling to find safety in the tiny, sealed-off territory as Israel vowed a retaliation for Hamas' surprise weekend attack that would "reverberate ... for generations."

Sunrise gatherings, dances mark celebration of Indigenous Peoples Day

Events across the country — including a sunrise gathering in Minneapolis, a statehouse rally in Maine, a celebratory march in Seattle and traditional dancing, music, and food in Alaska and Arizona — marked celebrations of Indigenous Peoples Day.

Ted Schwinden, who served two terms as Montana governor, dies at age 98

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Ted Schwinden, a wheat farmer and Word War II veteran who gained national attention for keeping his home phone number listed during two terms as Montana's governor, has died. He was 98.

Law roundup: Only weirdos in the building

A woman reportedly wanted the Kalispell Police Department to run a warrant check on a “weirdo in the building” who was talking about meth and killing people.

Take back public lands from private corporations

For several decades now, oil and gas companies have been receiving a sweetheart deal from the federal government when it comes to leasing public lands across the West.

Letters to the editor Oct. 10

Letters to the editor Oct. 10

Suspect in parking lot shooting pleads not guilty

The Dayton man accused of shooting another man during a parking dispute outside of a south Kalispell store last month pleaded not guilty in Flathead County District Court on Thursday.

Alleged gunplay at U.S. 2 intersection leads to arrest

A 22-year-old faces a felony charge in Flathead County District Court after allegedly leveling a pistol at another motorist while the two were stopped next to each other at a U.S. 2 intersection last week.

Bipartisan U.S. Senate bill aims to boost bison tribal management, restoration

A bipartisan group of U.S. senators has again introduced a bill that aims to create a permanent bison program within the Department of Interior to help bolster tribal involvement in the restoration and management of the creatures on tribal lands.

Montana data shows 44% who lost coverage in Medicaid unwinding were kids

Nearly half of the roughly 55,000 Montanans who lost Medicaid coverage through the disenrollment process between April and August were children, according to new data provided to a legislative committee by the Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Legals for October, 10 2023

Columbia Falls man facing multiple felonies back behind bars

A 47-year-old facing multiple felony charges in Flathead County District Court is back behind bars after allegedly leaving the state in violation of the terms of his release in the pending case.

Father brought up on felony after allegedly breaking into son’s business

A 78-year-old Flathead Valley man faces a felony burglary charge after allegedly breaking into his son’s Kalispell-area business Oct. 4 and leaving with a checkbook, rent check and a .38 caliber revolver.

US raises the death toll to 9 of Americans killed in the weekend Hamas attacks on Israel

WASHINGTON (AP) — The State Department said Monday that at least nine American citizens have been killed in the weekend Hamas attacks on Israel, raising the toll from four.

New Audubon president excited to return to world of birds

Whether someone attracts them with a feeder or just sees them occasionally through a window, birds are a part of life on Earth, according the newly elected president of the Flathead Audubon Society.

Law roundup: Pedestrians threaten to beat driver up

Someone reportedly stepped off the curb in front of a man’s vehicle and then walked across the street with another individual where they threatened to beat him up. He called the police, wanting them to be aware that it looked like the pair “were challenging people to hit them.”

Staff to present three public safety levy options to Kalispell City Council

Discussion of a possible levy emerged in later summer following independent audits of the city’s Fire and Police departments.

Legals for October, 9 2023

Letters to the editor Oct. 9

Letters to the editor Oct. 9

Road dogs come up big as Montana Western upsets No. 11 Montana Tech

Montana Western played spoiler on the road Saturday as the Bulldogs took down the Montana Tech Orediggers 38-28 Saturday. The Bulldogs rushing attack played a big factor in the win as Bulldogs racked up 273 yards and three scores on the ground.

Law roundup: Catty neighbor unhappy with fertile felines

A Bigfork resident complained to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office about a neighbor’s 10 cats that kept having kittens and visiting her yard nightly to defecate.

Marion Kirby, 82

Marion Pauline (Rolston) Kirby, 82, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2023.

Griz hold off UC Davis, 31-23

Eli Gillman’s 85-yard touchdown burst in the third quarter let the No. 17 Grizzlies open up a 28-20 lead, and Montana held off No. 20 UC Davis 31-23 in a Big Sky Conference football game Saturday.

Patricia Lynn Ingvalson, 74

Patricia Lynn Ingvalson

Legals for October, 8 2023

Joan Maria Deily, 89

Joan Maria Deily, 89

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Duo creates business focusing on products to eliminate pain

The Nyack Exchange refers to not only the Nyack Flats area of Glacier National Park but also to the idea of not giving up.

Jimmy Eugene Hamilton, 82

Jimmy Eugene Hamilton, 82

William 'Bill' Johnson, 75

Bill Johnson, a loving husband, devoted father, and proud papa, passed away at home on Sept. 26, 2023, in Yuma, Arizona. He was 75 years old.

Whitefish couple fashions custom hats made to last

Glacier Rim Hats, the couple’s current business, is based out of the family’s Whitefish home, operating out of a spare guest room and garage.

Paul Lee Wells, 80

Paul Lee Wells, 80

Judicial activism at work in transgender court case

There are many things that children can’t legally do in Montana. They can’t smoke a cigar, drink alcohol, die fighting for their country in a foreign war, vote, or engage in a variety of transactions.

Vote for the oath? Or count your fingers?

An oath is defined as a solemn promise, often invoking a divine witness, regarding one's future action or behavior.

95 mills: Counties committed to fiscal responsibility

We hope this letter finds you well. The Montana Association of Counties (MACo) Board of Directors wishes to address several matters of concern as well as provide feedback on the recent legislative session and tax policy.

Letters to the editor Oct. 8

Letters to the editor Oct. 8

Cecily Rideout McNeil, 99

Cecily Rideout McNeil, 99

Flathead County grants accommodation for non-compliant residential fence

An 8-foot fence around a home west of Kalispell that violates zoning regulations and has drawn sharp criticism from neighboring property owners will remain in place after Flathead County granted a disability accommodation for the barrier.

Democracy fans make it personal

“What is democracy?” Kristina Graber Wilfore asked the audience of about 40 people at her talk last month at the Northwest Montana History Museum.

Steven Lloyd Graham, 66

Steven Lloyd Graham, 66

US applications for jobless benefits inch up but layoffs remain historically low

Applications for unemployment benefits ticked up by 2,000 to 207,000 for the week ending Sept. 30, the Labor Department reported Thursday.

The average long-term US mortgage rate surges to 7.49%, its highest level since December 2000

The average rate on the benchmark 30-year home loan rose to 7.49% from 7.31% last week, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said Thursday. A year ago, the rate averaged 6.66%.

The US government seems ready to order a recall of millions of air bag inflators for safety concerns

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration held a public hearing Thursday to field commentary and testimony on inflators made by ARC Automotive Inc. of Knoxville, Tennessee, which supplies the devices to air bag makers and several major auto companies. At least 25 million vehicles containing ARC-made air bags could be affected.

Vermont's flood-damaged capital is slowly rebuilding. And it's asking tourists and residents to help

The small city of about 8,000 is celebrating its ongoing recovery with food trucks, music and street performers in hopes of drawing visitors downtown and giving shops a chance to sell their merchandise in sidewalk sales.

Bulldogs wrap up regular season with 1-0 win

Whitefish capped off an unbeaten season with a 1-0 win over Polson in Northwest A boys soccer on Saturday.

Loren Thomas Johnson, 79

Loren Thomas Johnson, 79

Newspaper carriers are the unsung heroes

As president of the Hagadone Corporation's Communications Division, I wish to share my sincere pride and gratitude.

Flathead Electric Cooperative begins electrical vehicle charging program

The EV Charging Assistant program helps residential electrical vehicle owners manage charging in ways that contribute to a resilient power grid, which supports everyone in our electric system.

Pack shuts out Helena schools

The Wolfpack is still solidly at the top of Western AA soccer standings after winning two games on Friday and Saturday.

Bravettes tie Helena, beat Capital

The Flathead Bravettes had a solid weekend, coming up with a win and a tie against Helena teams at Kidsport on Friday and Saturday

PHOTOS: The Great Northwest Oktoberfest

Scenes from The Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Depot Park in Whitefish on Saturday, Oct. 7.

Hamas surprise attack out of Gaza stuns Israel

JERUSALEM (AP) — Backed by a barrage of rockets, dozens of Hamas militants broke out of the blockaded Gaza Strip and into nearby Israeli towns, killing dozens and abducting others in an unprecedented surprise early morning attack during a major Jewish holiday Saturday.

Whitefish wipes out Stevi, 62-14

WHITEFISH — Carson Gulick threw three touchdown passes and took an interception back for a score, providing just some of the highlights in Whitefish’s 62-14 Western A football win over Stevensville Friday.

Champion Falcons stymie Lions, 35-14

FLORENCE — Whalen Memorial Field, the gridiron shrouded in trees behind Florence-Carlton High School, played out like this for the two-time defending State B champion Falcons Friday: Short field for us, long one for you.

Grant funding assists expansion of college's HVAC program

Thanks to the grant funding, FVCC’s existing HVAC program has expanded to include an HVAC Career Credential for high school juniors and seniors in the Running Start program.

FWP chief takes responsibility for toxic culture at wildlife agency

At a Legislative Audit Committee meeting Thursday, lawmakers had their first chance to address a scathing report that showed more than half of Montana’s game, fish and wildlife wardens fear retaliation and believe the culture in the department is bad, while state auditors found a dearth of required personnel records.

Ex-boyfriend arrested after string of alleged incidents in Columbia Falls

David James Bollman faces counts of burglary and assault with a weapon in Flathead County District Court.

Hydropower generation drops in Montana, Pacific NW due to drought

Hydropower generation in the northwest, including Montana, dropped 24% in the first half of 2023 compared to the same period last year mainly because of a snowpack that melted quickly and drought conditions, the U.S. Energy Information Administration said in a recent report.

Schweikert, special teams key big C-Falls win

COLUMBIA FALLS — Cody Schweikert accounted for four touchdowns and Columbia Falls’ special teams were special, in a 41-0 rout of Western A rival Libby Friday.

PHOTOS: Wildcats shut out Libby, 41-0

Photos from the Columbia Falls Wildcats 41-0 win over the Libby Loggers at Satterthwaite Field on Friday, Oct. 6.

Welcome To America

Naturalization ceremony held in Glacier National Park

On a gorgeous afternoon, 15 people from 10 different countries were naturalized as U.S. Citizens during a ceremony Friday in Glacier National Park.

Wolfpack runs past Braves in 2nd half

Kobe Dorcheus, the junior half of Glacier’s running back tandem, was a tough tackle on Thursday night in the Wolfpack’s 42-6 Crosstown win over Flathead.

Tristan Butts has become a big-play receiver for unbeaten Eureka

Trevor Utter was a sophomore in high school when Jeff Casazza set Eureka’s single-game record for receiving yards: 193, in 1991. “It was a weird thing,” Utter, in his 12th season as the Lions’ head coach, remembered. “Jeff was fast, and we were at Conrad, and it was three passes. They were stacking the box, and Jeff just ran deep. Eighty-yard bomb, 80-yard bomb…”

PHOTOS: Glacier takes home crosstown win, 42-6

Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack's 42-6 win over the Flathead Braves in a crosstown football matchup at Legends Stadium on Thursday, Oct. 5.

Legals for October, 6 2023

Webcams are back at Logan Pass Visitor Center

The webcam at the Logan Pass Visitor Center in Glacier National Park is back online, with the addition of two more cameras.

Wildkats hold off Whitefish

If you can’t remember the last time the Columbia Falls Wildkats beat the Whitefish Bulldogsin soccer, that’s okay — it’s been a while.

Bulldogs down Columbia Falls, 3-1

The Whitefish Bulldogs poured in three goals in the second half to top the Columbia Falls Wildcats 3-1 at Smith Fields on Thursday in Northwest A soccer.

Flathead County reduces collection of school property tax mills

Flathead County has reduced the amount of state school property taxes it plans to collect falling in line with several counties around Montana that are disputing the state’s requirement to collect a set number of mills for school equalization funding.

Award-winning film showcases Blackfeet's Malia Kipp

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, Montana PBS airs "Native Ball: Legacy of a Trailblazer," a half-hour documentary profiling Blackfeet Lady Griz basketball player Malia Kipp, on Nov.2 at 7:30 p.m. The film was produced by Family Theater Entertainment.

About 3/4 of eligible homeowners apply for Montana property tax rebates

The Montana Department of Revenue said Wednesday it received more than 226,600 applications for homeowner property tax rebates during the application period that closed Oct. 2 — a figure that, MTFP calculates, represents about three-quarters of eligible homeowners.

Law roundup: Shopper banned from store seeks second opinion

A shopper upset with being removed from a local store called the Kalispell Police Department to see whether his ban from the merchant’s property was “legit.”

Kootenai campground killer sentenced to state prison

Garry Douglas Seaman, 64, appeared in Lincoln County District Court on Thursday and received two 60-year concurrent sentences.

Biden says he had to use Trump-era funds for the border wall. Asked if barriers work, he says 'No'

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Thursday defended his administration's decision to waive 26 federal laws in South Texas to allow for construction of roughly 20 miles of additional border wall, saying he had no choice but to use the Trump-era funding for the barrier to stop illegal migration from Mexico.

Montana records first flu death of season

State health officials are warning residents to prepare for an uptick in respiratory illnesses after Montana recorded its first influenza death of the season.

Tractor Supply holds grand opening

A new Tractor Supply retail store officially opened in Evergreen on Thursday and will hold a grand opening through Sunday.

FVCC receives $50k donation to heavy equipment program

Flathead Valley Community College recently received a $50,000 donation to it heavy equipment operators program.

Law roundup: Catwoman caught in Kalispell

Who needs the Bat Signal? With the help of a passerby, officers with the Kalispell Police Department tracked Catwoman down to a city underpass.

Whitefish High School Class of 1958 holds book signing

The book is called “Love Letter to Whitefish, Montana” and is being released this weekend to coincide with the 65th class reunion and Whitefish High’s homecoming.

Winnifred Storli, 93

Winnifred Storli

Dick Dillon, 85

Dick Dillon

Flathead Story Concerts event Oct. 15

Flathead Story Concerts are themed and curated spoken word events, not open-mics.

United Way parts with Winter Warm-up event

An annual event that connected homeless people with local services is being transferred from the United Way to Collaborative Housing Solutions, with United Way leadership citing a change in direction for the organization.

Unique time, look to Crosstown

The 17th Crosstown football game is unique in that it has a Thursday night kickoff instead of Friday. It also sets Flathead’s unique offense against a Glacier team with a unique set of skill players.

Letters to the editor Oct. 5

Letters to the editor Oct. 5

Arts and Entertainment Events

Arts, entertainment events

Idaho woman killed in U.S. 2 collision near Marion

A 43-year-old Hayden, Idaho woman died in a late-morning vehicle collision on U.S. 2 near Marion on Saturday, authorities say.

Plains artist Ilene Paulsen featured at Phillips Gallery

Her work will be on display as the featured artist at Phillips Gallery inside the Kalispell Center Mall during the month of October.

Entertainment lineup includes a capella group, comedian and celebration of Elvis Presley’s early albums

A capella sensation Chanticleer, Hot Club of Cowtown with Tyler Hilton: Celebrating Elvis Presley’s records from Sun Studios and comedian Ryan Hamilton come to the stage at the Wachholz College Center in January, April and May.

Show celebrates the music of the 60s

The three-hour nonstop dancing and listening extravaganza will feature the music of vintage rock and roll artists.

WTC presents Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece ‘Lost In Yonkers’

This nostalgic memory play takes us back to the summer of 1942: World War II is on and flat-broke Eddie Kurnitz leaves his sons Jay and Arty with their grandmother while he takes to the road as a salesman to pay off his debts.

Grizzly bear attack leaves 2 people dead in Banff National Park

An attack by a grizzly bear has left two people dead in a national park in western Canada, and the bear was later killed by park rangers, officials said.

Plenty of variables if EV buses come to Glacier

Co-op will get a taste of serving EV buses, as Bigfork will soon have an EV rig

As Glacier National Park examines ways to manage crowds into the future, one suggestion by Congressman Ryan Zinke has been a more robust shuttle system, possibly with clean running electric vehicles.

Legals for October, 5 2023

McCarthy broke promises and aided liberals

This past Congress, House Republicans have worked together to secure several conservative wins for the American people, and I was proud to be part of that process.

John Bauska, 72

John Bauska

Voters reject Kalispell levies, Whitefish bond

Voters rejected four Kalispell Public Schools technology and safety levy requests in a mail-ballot election that ended Tuesday night.

Kalispell City Council seeks countywide summit on homelessness

Kalispell City Council is considering organizing a summit for Flathead County’s three municipalities regarding homelessness.

Fighting for freedom or appeasing Putin: The choice is clear

“Freedom isn’t free.” It surely was not for those who fought and died for America’s freedom in the beginning. Following the Declaration of Independence in 1776, and through the eight brutal and bloody years of the Revolutionary War thereafter, winning and securing America’s freedom from a tyrannical foreign power was the cause for which genuine American patriots willingly and knowingly gave their lives.

House speaker chaos stuns lawmakers, frays relationships and roils Washington

WASHINGTON (AP) — Lawmakers who had been sitting in stunned silence gasped at the declaration: The office of speaker "is hereby declared vacant."

All four Kalispell Public Schools levy requests voted down

Voters rejected four Kalispell Public Schools technology and safety levy requests at the ballot box Tuesday.

Stimson Lumber owner critical of U.S. Forest Service

Stimson’s mill in Plummer, Idaho, has dropped about two-thirds of its workforce by the end of last week.

Alleged drunk driver involved in fatal collision pleads no contest

The motorist accused of striking and killing a 21-year-old from Columbia Falls while drunk in March pleaded no contest Tuesday to a trio of misdemeanors stemming from the fatal collision.

Assault charge dismissed against suspect in campground fight

Chelsie Morrison, 34, was brought up on an assault with a weapon charge in January in connection with the alleged Oct. 3, 2022 dispute at the Dog Creek Campground near U.S. 93.

Bozeman attorney Ben Alke launches campaign for state attorney general

Bozeman attorney Ben Alke, a Democrat, launched his campaign for state attorney general last week, attacking incumbent Republican Austin Knudsen in a biting speech to supporters at the Helena taproom operated by the Montana Department of Justice’s most recent Democratic chief.

Law roundup: Parents steamed after catching teen vaping

After sleeping on it, a parent who caught their teenager vaping the night prior contacted the Columbia Falls Police Department. Apparently opting for some tough love, the parent asked that officers issue the 16-year-old a citation. Officers agreed to meet up with the family that evening.

Federal lawsuit over Whitefish’s impact fees allowed to move ahead

A federal judge will allow a class-action lawsuit alleging the city of Whitefish has been overcharging for impact fees for new development to move forward.

Arrested for shoplifting, 31-year-old charged with drug possession

Nolan Wayne Hamman faces one felony count of criminal possession of dangerous drugs and a misdemeanor theft charge following his Sept. 28 arrest at a U.S. 93 gas station in Kalispell.

Man accused of threatening school shooting given deferred prosecution agreement

Robert Arnold Brown faced one count of felony intimidation and a misdemeanor charge of assault with a bodily fluid following his May 8 arrest in Columbia Falls.

Father sentenced for fight that injured infant child

Judge Dan Wilson handed down the deferred three-year sentence for felony criminal endangerment to Joseph Richard Riggs, 39, on Sept. 21.

Assault suspect deemed unfit to proceed

Kalispell Police officers arrested Ilya Paul Khmelev, 26, on Jan. 7 after he allegedly threatened a shelter worker with a metal pole about 3 feet in length, court documents said.

MSU's Ben Perrin Named Big Sky Men's XC Athlete of the Week

Ben Perrin was named Big Sky Men's XC Athlete of the Week, the conference office announced on Tuesday morning.

North Valley Food Bank holds annual kids food drive

The food bank serves about 1,000 individuals every week and a quarter of those are children.

Kalispell man joins ranks of Montana Highway Patrol

Kalispell native Philip Rhodes was among nine troopers commissioned by the Montana Highway Patrol during a graduation ceremony in Helena on Sept. 29.

Bobcat running back room continues to make noise

There are running back rooms and there is what the No. 2-ranked Montana State Bobcats seem to have put together this season, enroute to a 5-1 start.

Legals for October, 4 2023

Leaf collection in Kalispell begins Oct. 16

The Kalispell Public Works Department will start the collection of leaves this season beginning Oct. 16 and will stop the collection effort on Nov. 17.

FVCC holds free community lecture series

Each lecture is free to attend and registration is not required.

Clark Fork Valley Hospital no longer delivering babies

Citing mounting challenges in staffing, training and patient numbers, Clark Fork Valley Hospital is discontinuing its delivering of babies effective Jan. 1, 2024.

Gianforte administration takes school tax dispute with counties to court

The administration of Gov. Greg Gianforte filed a lawsuit Monday against Missoula County seeking a judicial ruling on a dispute with county governments over whether the state has the authority to require the full collection of a school funding property tax.

Voters reject $33.7M Whitefish School District bond issue

Voters have turned down a $33.7 million bond issue put forward by the Whitefish School District that would have funded an expansion of the high school and its athletic facilities.

McCarthy ousted as House speaker in dramatic vote as Democrats join with GOP critics to topple him

WASHINGTON (AP) — Speaker Kevin McCarthy was voted out of the job Tuesday in an extraordinary showdown, a first in U.S. history, The 216-210 vote, forced by a contingent of hard-right conservatives, throws the House and its Republican leadership into chaos.

Hunter Biden pleads not guilty to three federal gun charges filed after his plea deal collapsed

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Hunter Biden pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to three federal firearms charges filed after his earlier deal imploded, setting the case on a track toward a possible trial in 2024 while his father is campaigning for reelection.

McCarthy to call vote Tuesday on effort to oust him and says he won't cut a deal with Democrats

WASHINGTON (AP) — Speaker Kevin McCarthy plans to force a vote Tuesday on the far-right effort to oust him from his leadership position and insists he will not cut a deal with Democrats to remain in power, setting the stage for an extraordinary and unpredictable showdown on the House floor.

Flathead Warming Center heads into upcoming season with policy change

As the Flathead Warming Center prepares to kick off its fifth season, officials are establishing new policies they say will increase accountability for patrons.

Protestors seek to draw attention to Banned Books Week following board decision

More than a dozen protestors gathered in front of the Kalispell branch of ImagineIF Libraries on Monday to protest the county library system’s decision to forgo celebrating Banned Books Week.

Letters to the editor Oct. 3

Letters to the editor Oct. 3

We can do better for our kids

I just love the first day of school.

Camper thief given two suspended sentences

Judge Robert Allison handed down a pair of three-year suspended sentences with the state Department of Corrections to Crystal Marie Stierns, 35, on Sept. 29, giving her credit for 12 days of time served.

Law Roundup: No slam dunk for noise complaint

Someone called to complain that teenagers were yelling and playing basketball at a neighborhood court.

Legals for October, 3 2023

Suspect in attempted Kalispell break-in pleads guilty in justice court

Prosecutors initially brought Seth Michael Musick, 28, up on attempted burglary and criminal mischief charges in Flathead County District Court following the alleged attempted home invasion on Dec. 5, 2022.

Counties say they’ll buck governor on collecting full school property tax

A dispute over whether a Montana statute intended to cap property tax growth applies to a state-level school property tax escalated this week as several county governments said they plan to buck the Montana Department of Revenue’s direction to collect a full 95 mills for a tax that supports state school equalization funding.

Accused squatter sentenced for criminal mischief, bail jumping

Judge Danni Coffman gave Ashley Katherine Coil, 38, a deferred five-year sentence to the state Department of Corrections for felony criminal mischief on Sept. 20.

Woman survives bear attack along Trail Creek

A 73-year-old woman was hospitalized on Sunday following a bear attack along Trail Creek just west of North Fork Road, state officials say.

Montana is appealing a landmark climate change ruling that favored youth plaintiffs

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The office of Montana's Republican attorney general is appealing a landmark climate change ruling that said state agencies aren't doing enough to protect 16 young plaintiffs from harm caused by global warming.

Kalispell City Council to weigh $1.7M sewage infrastructure project

The project encompasses the replacement of concrete pipe and other structures corroded by hydrogen sulfide along the stretch of main leading to the city’s wastewater treatment plant, according to a memo by Deputy Director of Public Works Keith Haskins.

Bigfork chiropractor, coach returns home

When he graduated from Bigfork High school in 2015, Isaac Martel knew he wanted to one day find his way back home.

Legals for October, 2 2023

Law roundup: Reckless driver goes buggy on the road

A woman driving a red Volkswagen Beetle was being a reckless pest on the road as she reportedly tailgated vehicles, wove in and out of a traffic lane, passed unsafely, flipped people off, threw things out the window and nearly rear-ended someone all before swerving into a shopping center.

Behind Emerson, Polson completes State A golf sweep

The Polson golf teams nailed down their state title sweep Saturday, and found another 1A golfer along the way.

Letters to the editor Oct. 2

Letters to the editor Oct. 2

Annexation for south entrance property before Whitefish Council

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

No. 9 Carroll rolls over MSU-Northern to stay undefeated

MSU-Northern struck first with a field goal at the 10:02 mark of the first quarter to make things 3-0 but after that it was all Carroll as they scored 43 unanswered points to win 43-3 and stay unbeaten.

Ryan Pearson, 34

Ryan Kirkwood Pearson, 34, of Helena, passed away on Sept. 26, 2023, after an accident while working on his truck.

Casey Vail, 65

Casey Dexter Vail, 65, of Kalispell, passed away on Sept. 11, 2023. He was born on June 23, 1958, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Sharon Ann (Hansen) Rumley, 78

Sharon Ann (Hansen) Rumley, 78, passed away on Sept. 24, after complications from rheumatoid arthritis and pneumonia with her beloved daughter and son, Jennifer and Dave, by her side.

Braves get first win of season

The Flathead Braves got their first soccer win of the season, 4-2 against Western AA foe Butte on Saturday.

Hiker sets new fastest known time record for Continental Divide Trail

The 41-year-old was accounting for hiking 3,050 miles when he only needed to account for 2,882 miles. After taking his only rest day of the entire trip to recover from a cold, his worries about not being able to make up for lost time faded away. He was well within his means to set a new fastest-known time for the famous thru-hike.

Whitefish's Stack Financial ranked among top firms

Stack Financial Management of Whitefish was ranked no. 72 in the 2023 CNBC Financial Advisor 100.

McAtee, Kats top Stillwater

Hope McAtee poured in four goals to help the Wildkats to a 6-0 win over nonconference opponent Stillwater Christian on Saturday.

Hellgate edges Glacier, 2-1

Lucca Musco’s second half goal lifted the Hellgate Knights to a 2-1 win over Western AA rival Glacier Wolfpack on Saturday.

Kay Sands McDonald, 71

Kay Sands McDonald

Bobcats run wild in win over Vikings

Sean Chambers accounted for four touchdowns and Montana State overcame a slow start to beat Portland State 38-22 Saturday, and extend their home winning streak to 23 games.

Grizzlies subdue Bengals, 28-20

Saturday will go down as a bounce-back win for the Montana Grizzlies, who rode Clifton McDowell’s running and throwing to a 28-20 win over the Idaho State Bengals.

Flathead residents take part in timber industry training program

Flathead Valley residents Shauna Dunn, Shelby George, Brian Hogue, and Cameron Wohlschlegel recently completed three days of local training as part of REAL Montana (Resource Education and Agriculture Leadership).

Letters to the editor Oct. 1

Letters to the editor Oct. 1

Rebate deadline extension is welcome

By a show of hands, how many readers know what a geocode is? And how many are familiar with the state cadastral?

Decision to forgo Banned Books Week at ImagineIF Libraries proves divisive

An ImagineIF Libraries trustee disputed the depiction of a recent decision to forgo observation of Banned Books Week as a board decision during a Sept. 28 meeting packed by residents hoping to weigh in on the mandate.

A victory for the Badger-Two Medicine

Montanans have cause to celebrate. After nearly four decades of threat, the wild and sacred peaks, wildlife, and forests of the Badger-Two Medicine are finally safe from industrial oil and gas development.

Legals for October, 1 2023

Knudsen sabotages our well-being by opposing abortion safety zones

Montanans cherish our personal liberty and privacy. We expect to make private medical decisions for our own bodies. Montana’s Constitution explicitly guarantees our right to privacy, which Montana courts have affirmed includes the right to abortion.

Deer Park named National Blue Ribbon school

Deer Park School was designated a 2023 Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education for being one of Montana’s “exemplary high-performing schools.”

Law roundup: Police apprised of friends’ alleged theft

A man told the Kalispell Police Department that his homeless friends, who sleep in his car, stole his $50 e-cigarette. Although he did not want to formally report the theft, he was still salty

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Paintball business takes aim at entertainment

In the future, Montana Action Paintball hopes to find an indoor space for foam-based weaponry battles or paintball using rubber paintballs.

It’s time for state control of grizzly bears

The recent spate of headlines about grizzly bear attacks and human-bear conflicts highlights the need for the federal government to return management of grizzlies to the state of Montana.