Ellington

US drug control agency will move to reclassify marijuana in a historic shift, AP sources say

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will move to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, The Associated Press has learned, a historic shift to generations of American drug policy that could have wide ripple effects across the country.

Judge raises threat of jail in hush money trial as he holds Trump in contempt, fines him $9,000

NEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump was held in contempt of court Tuesday and fined $9,000 for repeatedly violating a gag order that barred him from making public statements about witnesses, jurors and some others connected to his New York hush money case. And if he does it again, the judge warned, he could be jailed.

Sword-wielding man attacks passersby in London, killing a 14-year-old boy and injuring 4 others

LONDON (AP) — A man wielding a sword attacked members of the public and police officers in a northeast London suburb Tuesday, killing a 14-year-old boy and injuring four other people, British authorities said.

Law roundup: Woman blow off steam at trees

A middle-aged woman wearing a black trench coat and sandals was allegedly swaying in Woodland Park smoking, screaming nonsense and swinging a stick around.

Norma Lee Ross, 87

Norma Lee Ross went to be with her Heavenly Father on April 26, 2024, in Lynden, Washington, at the age of 87 following a long battle with Alzheimer's.

Donald Trump Jr. rallies Republican support for Montana candidates

Former president Donald Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., rallied on Sunday for leading Republican candidates in Montana, urging support for a conservative agenda that he said will help win races up and down ballots in November.

0430 Notices

0430 Notices

Congress must act on housing crisis

For the past six months I have been talking to hundreds of Montanans about their concerns and hopes for the future, and the one issue that comes up every time is housing. Some of our neighbors and their kids are living on the streets.

Biden taps CSKT attorney Danna Jackson for U.S. District Court judgeship

President Joe Biden has tapped an attorney for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to replace Judge Dana Christensen in the U.S. District Court of Montana.

Convicted sex offender facing revocation of suspended sentences

Prosecutors on Friday filed a petition for revocation in Flathead County District Court for David Berlin Trent, 47, of Kalispell, at the behest of his probation and parole officer.

Letters to the editor April 30

Letters to the editor April 30

Conservative states challenge federal rule on treatment of transgender students

At least five Republican state attorneys general are challenging a federal regulation that seeks to protect the rights of transgender students in the nation's schools by banning blanket policies that bar transgender students from school bathrooms aligning with their gender, among other provisions.

AA Lakers split doubleheader with Helena

The Kalispell AA Lakers and Helena Senators split their Sunday doubleheader in Kalispell. The Senators strung together 16 hits in the opener to beat the host Lakers 7-4 in 11 innings. The Lakers bounced back in game number two with a 5-3 win after a strong performance on the mound from Luke Nikunen.

Letters to the editor April 29

Letters to the editor April 29

Law roundup: Tunnel dweller threatens to beat up teens

A woman hanging out in the pedestrian tunnel underneath the bypass reportedly yelled at high schoolers that she was going to beat them up.

FVCC art exhibition and sale

FVCC Art Department’s annual Mother’s Day Sale runs April 29 through May 1, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day on the upper level of the Arts and Technology Building on campus.

County holds meetings on potential bridge projects

Flathead County is looking at four bridges scattered throughout the county that need rehabilitation or replacement due to age and condition.

Legals for April, 29 2024

Water flows throughout swim instructor’s foundation for life

The water has even led her to her husband, where the two met canoeing in Northern Minnesota, and she has lovingly donned the middle names of River and Lake upon two of her sons.

No Big Sky players drafted; 7 UDFAs

It wasn’t a banner three days for the Football Championship Subdivision, and especially for the Big Sky Conference, as far as the 2024 NFL Draft was concerned.

Briefs: Hole-in-one, Karate promotions, Havre coach retires

BIGFORK — Guin Cummings got her first career hole-in-one Thursday, at Eagle Bend Golf Club.

Wolfpack slug way to 2 wins

BELGRADE — Kenadie Goudette led off the first inning of Glacier’s first game with a solo home run, and Zoey Allen hit three on the day as the Glacier slugged its way to two non-conference softball wins Saturday.

Column: Krause takes aim at Fargo, discus record

About halfway through his six discus attempts on Tuesday, at the Pilcher/Western Montana Top 10 track and field meet, Glacier’s Aiden Krause started verbally adding something extra.

A Lakers sweep A Chargers

GREAT FALLS — Bryce Quinnell doubled, tripled and drove in four runs in a first-game rout, and the Kalispell A Lakers went on to sweep a Legion doubleheader from Great Falls Saturday, 16-1 and 7-4.

Baseball: C-Falls sweeps Browning

COLUMBIA FALLS — Matthew Mitts and Dominick Young each had three hits and four runs batted in in Columbia Falls’ 28-2, second-game win over Browning that capped a doubleheader baseball sweep Saturday.

Softball: Bravettes falter in Belgrade

BELGRADE — The Flathead Bravettes managed just eight hits and two games, and lost a pair of non-conference games at the Class AA Crossover softball tournament Saturday.

West Valley seeking approval of two levies

West Valley School District voters are reminded to return mailed ballots for the May 7 election. A $347,000 general fund levy and an $83,000 technology levy are on the ballot.

Park staff and volunteers work to pick up polystyrene foam along Lake McDonald’s shores

Walking along Lake McDonald’s northeastern shore in late December, Heidi Haugen spotted small white dots in the water line debris.

Margaret 'Rusty' Ann Triplett, 96

On Dec. 16, 2023, at 1 a.m., Margaret "Rusty" Ann Triplett, 96, went to heaven to live with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Kalispell thrift store focuses on quality in goods it sells

Justine Van De Riet opened Resurrected Thrift with her parents, James and Danielle Coombs, and her sister, Jaylynn Coombs, in hopes of making thrifted items accessible again using consumer conscientious methods.

Brockman, Schubert spar at candidate forum

Incumbent state Rep. Tony Brockman, R-Evergreen, sparred with his GOP challenger Lukas Schubert over who was more fit to serve House District 8 during a candidate forum Wednesday.

Legals for April, 28 2024

Whitefish sweeps own A.R.M. meet

WHITEFISH — Brooke Zetooney and Rachael Wilmot secured a pair of top two finishes in the 100 and 200 meter dashes for Whitefish at the ARM Invitational Saturday.

Barbara Mae Kropp, 87

Barbara Mae Kropp, 87 of Kalispell, passed peacefully to her heavenly home on Jan. 19, 2024, at Logan Health.

New deep-water channel allows first ship to pass Key bridge wreckage in Baltimore

The first cargo ship passed through a newly opened deep-water channel in Baltimore after being stuck in the harbor since the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed four weeks ago.

Southwest Airlines is considering changes to its quirky boarding and seating practices

Get ready for changes in boarding and seating at Southwest Airlines.

More time needed to consider CFAC cleanup plan

CFAC. Glencore. Slurry walls. Waste in place. Cyanide. Spent pot liner. Affordable housing. CCC. EPA. ROD. TANA. TAG. CLP. ECRWSSEDDM... .

Carroll G. Lorang, 92

Carroll Lorang, 92 of Bigfork, passed away peacefully at his home in Bigfork on April 18, 2024.

Alphabet and Microsoft help Wall Street clinch its best week in nearly 6 months

NEW YORK (AP) — The best week for U.S. stocks since November closed out with more gains thanks to Alphabet and Microsoft on Friday.

Law roundup: Employee tries on donated handcuffs

The Kalispell Police Department was asked if they had a key to free an employee who tried on a pair of donated handcuffs.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Clark Bradford Anderson, 69

Clark Bradford Anderson, 69, passed away on Dec. 5, 2023, at the Billings Clinic.

Levies are an investment in Kalispell’s future

As Kalispell Public Schools trustees we ask you to invest in the future and support our kids’ education but voting yes for the school levies. Supporting our school levies is a direct way to invest in the future of Kalispell’s children and, by extension, the Kalispell community itself.

Letters to the editor April 28

Letters to the editor April 28

Alone in the Bob — Artists draw on isolation in nature for creating

Every year, artists, either alone or in pairs, trek through miles of the Bob as participants of the Artist Wilderness Connection residency program. With pack horses, the artists hike into the wilderness with all the supplies they need to live and create for around 10 days.

Tackling the rising cost of housing in Montana together

More than 100 years ago, my grandparents made a life for our family on a homesteaded plot of land outside of Big Sandy that we still farm to this day.

Hoerner, Moultray power Kats to 2 wins in Frenchtown

FRENCHTOWN — Italia Hoerner and Maddie Moultray hit home runs against Havre, and then they both homered again against Libby as the Columbia Falls Wildkats won twice at the Frenchtown Invitational softball tournament Friday.

Tennis: Bigfork-Columbia Falls; Polson-CFalls

Friday: Bigfork girls 4, Columbia Falls 3 SINGLES: Lexi Oberholtzer, Columbia Falls, def. Tessa Troyer 4-6, 6-0 (10-5); Ashlyn McGill, Bigfork, def. Aliyah Arends 6-4, 6-1; Amanda Leonard, Bigfork, def. Bailey Windauer 2-6, 6-2 (10-1); Cassie Schlicht, Bigfork, def. Fiona Bryant 6-4, 6-3.

Homeless people are losing Medicaid in redetermination mix-ups

KALISPELL — On a cold February morning at the Flathead Warming Center, Tashya Evans waited for help with her Medicaid application as others at the shelter got ready for the day in this northwestern Montana city.

Animal groups urge tourists not to visit Wyoming after a man hit a wolf then took it to a bar

As Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming opens for the busy summer season, wildlife advocates are leading a call for a boycott of the conservative ranching state over laws that give people wide leeway to kill gray wolves with little oversight.

PHOTOS: Arbor Day 2024 celebration

Third-grade students in School District 5 participate in a host of activities including environmental education booths, park beautification, tree planting and an Arbor Day ceremony at Lawrence Park in Kalispell on Friday, April 26.

Softball: Bravettes, Polson win big

MISSOULA — Macey McIlhargey threw a four-inning one-hitter, Tegan Strauss tripled and drove in four runs and Flathead drubbed Missoula Hellgate 15-0 in Western AA softball Thursday.

Baseball: C-Falls, Eureka win with late bursts

EVERGREEN — Kellen Kroger doubled, singled twice and drove in four runs Thursday as Colulmbia Falls pulled away late to beat Bigfork 16-3 in high school baseball at ABS Field.

Glacier tracksters sweep Sentinel quad

MISSOULA — Alex Hausmann swept the boys hurdles and Glacier won 10 of 17 girls events to sweep the team titles at a quadrangular meet held Thursday at MCPS Stadium.

Tennis: Libby, Bigfork split

BIGFORK — Ryan Beagle picked up a straight sets victory over Cole Carson and the Libby boys tennis team defeated Bigfork, while Tessa Troyer and the Bigfork girls picked up a win Tuesday in high school tennis.

Fed's preferred inflation gauge shows price pressures stayed elevated last month

WASHINGTON (AP) — A measure of inflation closely tracked by the Federal Reserve remained uncomfortably high in March, likely reinforcing the Fed's reluctance to cut interest rates anytime soon and underscoring a burden for President Joe Biden's re-election bid.

Glacier National Park plows less than a mile from Logan Pass

Glacier National Park Going-to-the-Sun Road snowplow crews are knocking on the door of Logan Pass. This week they reached the point just below Rim Rocks on the west side and plan to start plowing that area on Monday.

Smith Valley seeks approval for $1.8M bond to rebuild classrooms gutted by mold and asbestos

A $1.8 million bond issue is on the ballot to restore a building of Smith Valley School that was gutted to remove mold and asbestos.

State seeking public comment on future of Bigfork fishing access site

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is taking comments on a plan to relocate the state fishing access site at Sportsman's Bridge ahead of construction of a new span across the Flathead River.

Debra Warriner

Debra K. Warriner (Jensen) passed away April 16, 2024, at the Brendon House after a lengthy battle with COPD.

Whitefish Community Foundation hosts Community Grant Awards Celebration

Whitefish Community Foundation received a record number of Community Grant applications this spring from nonprofit organizations in Flathead, Lincoln and Glacier counties.

Gianforte endorses Sprunger, Brockman

Gov. Greg Gianforte threw his support Thursday behind Republican state Reps. Courtenay Sprunger and Tony Brockman, who are both facing primary challengers endorsed by the Flathead County Republican Central Committee.

Law roundup: Maybe leave the policing to the police

Taking a vigilante approach to allegedly speeding motorists in his neighborhood, a Columbia Falls resident learned that policing traffic safety laws might be better left to, well, the police.

Legals for April, 26 2024

Teddy Roosevelt pays a modern-day visit to Conrad Mansion Museum

More than a century after his last swing through Montana, former President Theodore Roosevelt bounded up the steps to the front entrance of The Conrad Mansion Museum in Kalispell on Wednesday.

Prep focus: Zetooney gives 'em a shot

The Whitefish girls track and field team has been blessed with sprinters through the years, going back at least as far as Marlow Schulz, so it should surprise nobody the Bulldogs have some serious speed in 2024.

Legals for April, 25 2024

Daines, Tester back foreign aid, TikTok ban package

U.S. Sens. Jon Tester and Steve Daines both voted for a $95 billion foreign aid package Tuesday night that includes funds for war-torn allies Israel and Ukraine.

C-Falls rallies past Bravettes Tuesday

COLUMBIA FALLS — Haden Peters threw a complete game, overcoming a three-run home run by Flathead’s Kaidyn Lake, and Columbia Falls rallied past the Bravettes for a 10-7 non-conference softball win Tuesday.

Dynamic Quist duo back on stage with busy performance lineup

When Halladay and Rob aren’t crooning a country melody with trio partner Clara Weick, they’re acting in movies, playing shows and creating a plan to bring more music to Montana children.

Letters to the editor April 25

Letters to the editor April 25

Columbia Falls city manager candidate had ethics issue at previous job

Columbia Falls city manager candidate Dennis Stark was the subject of an ethics investigation while serving as county manager for Lyon County, Nevada and ultimately was sanctioned $1,000 by the Nevada Commission on Ethics in 2012.

Your new tax bill

By now most Montana homeowners and business owners have gotten a new and unexpected tax bill from their county treasurers. Here’s why.

Jerry L. "Jake" Boll, 85

Jake Boll, 85 of Bigfork, passed away after a short illness on Monday, April 8, 2024 at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell.

Eureka athletes shine at own Elite Top 8 meet

EUREKA — Eureka’s Haidyn Guckenburg set personal bests in the 100 meter hurdles and the 400 meters at the Elite Top 8 meet Tuesday.

Court order on charter schools a win for Montana

Education leaders have the tremendous opportunity and responsibility to implement public charter schools for the benefit of Montana’s children.

Community band and choir team up for May concert

The Flathead Valley Community Band and the Columbia Falls Community Choir will present their “May Music Spectacular” concert beginning at 7:30 p.m. in the Flathead High School Auditorium.

Valley Voices draws inspiration from the big screen

The Valley Voices Community Choir will sing iconic songs from the big screen at its spring concert Saturday Night (and Sunday Afternoon) at the Movies.

ATP Kids performs ‘Mean Girls’ musical in Whitefish

Forty-six high school students from all over the Flathead Valley have been working together to present the hilarious musical based on the hit movie, running April 25-28 at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Polson baseball rallies past Butte

POLSON — Aiden Gfroerer drove in two runs on one hit and Polson defeated Butte 5-1 in high school baseball Wednesday.

BrassWerks concert planned

BrassWerks presents a free concert in the annex of Stillwater Free Lutheran Church Sunday, April 28.

Paddling film festival April 25 in Whitefish

The Paddling Film Festival is an international adventure film tour presenting the world’s best paddling films of the year — whitewater, sea kayaking, canoeing, SUP, action and lifestyle – in more than 120 cities and towns across Canada, United States and around the world.

Law roundup: Police tell catnapper to free Steve

A neighbor reportedly stole a woman’s cat, Steve, and refused to give him back.

How US changes to 'noncompete' agreements and overtime pay could affect workers

NEW YORK (AP) — For millions of American workers, the federal government took two actions this week that could bestow potentially far-reaching benefits.

Supreme Court weighs whether states can ban abortion, even during some medical emergencies

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court began hearing arguments Wednesday over whether state abortion bans enacted after its ruling overturning Roe v. Wade can extend to medical emergencies.

Below normal water supply forecasted for Montana after low-snow winter

Montana’s winter is shaping up to have been among the worst for snowpack in 25 years and, combined with current outlooks, has water forecasters warning that streamflow levels this summer could be well below normal across most of the state.

Valley athletes break Pilcher Top 10 records

MISSOULA — That was a fast track at MCPS Stadium Tuesday for the 24th Pilcher/Western Montana Top 10 meet. And given what some juniors did, it will be fast again in 2025.

Roland Otto Cheek, 88

It is with peace in our hearts that we notify friends and community that Roland Cheek’s circle of life is now complete. He passed peacefully in his sleep on April 12, 2024.

Tennis: Flathead, Bigfork split; Whitefish sweeps Polson

After a resounding dual win by the boys, Flathead had the tables turned on their Bravettes’ tennis squad by the Bigfork Valkyries Monday at Flathead Valley Community College.

Law roundup: Man tries to hitch a ride outta here

A hunched-over man with a walker was allegedly hitchhiking very close to the highway and someone was concerned he “may have escaped from a home.”

Legals for April, 24 2024

Softball: Frenchtown powers past Polson

FRENCHTOWN — Ryan Lucier threw a four-hitter and was one of three Frenchtown players to homer in the Broncs’ 8-5 win over Polson Tuesday in non-conference softball.

Kalispell Public Schools holds trustee election, asks for levies

School elections are May 7.

Candidates for statehouse talk Medicaid, property tax reform and child care at chamber forum

Lawmakers and political hopefuls made their pitches to Kalispell’s business leaders last week, arguing largely in favor of lowering property taxes, expanding child care opportunities and reauthorizing the state’s Medicaid plan.

Baseball: Bigfork rallies past Whitefish

EVERGREEN — Ryeln Rodriguez broke a 4-4 tie with an RBI single and Mason Lewis threw seven solid innings as Bigfork beat Whitefish 6-4 in baseball Tuesday at EBS Park.

First-quarter fundraising numbers shape federal campaigns

Candidates for federal office in Montana have reported their fundraising numbers for the first quarter of 2024, providing a picture of the state of several campaigns ahead of closely watched elections in Montana this year.

Man arrested with loaded weapons receives suspended sentence

In exchange for a guilty plea, prosecutors agreed to amend the felony to a misdemeanor charge of partner or family member assault and recommend a suspended sentence.

Bigfork School District holds trustee election

The election is May 7.

MSU breaks ground on new nursing education building in Kalispell

Montana State University officials joined community members in Kalispell on Tuesday to break ground on the final of five new nursing education facilities under construction around the state.

Arbor Day celebration Friday at Lawrence Park

Community members are invited to attend the formal Arbor Day ceremony and tree planting beginning at 9:20 a.m.

Helena Flats School holds trustee election

The election is May 7.

Senior Home Safety Day event April 27

My Glacier Village is partnering with Montana-owned and operated Glacier Ace to host a Home Safety Day and free barbecue lunch for community seniors on Saturday, April 27 from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at both the Evergreen and Columbia Falls Hardware Store locations.

Swan River School holds trustee election

The election is May 7.

Tennis: Libby Invitational results

BOYS No 1 SINGLES: 1, Ryan Beagle, Libby, def. Beau Decker, Ronan, 7-6 (5), 6-1; 3, Angus Trangmoe, Stevensville, def. Dillon Taylor, Loyola, 7-6 (3), 5-7, 7-5.

The head of Mexico's detective service says his country is the 'champion' of fentanyl production

MEXICO CITY (AP) — The head of Mexico's detective service acknowledged Tuesday that the country is "the champion" of fentanyl production, contradicting President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.

Aid for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan heads to the Senate for final approval after months of delay

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate returned to Washington on Tuesday to vote on $95 billion in war aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, the final congressional steps to send the legislation to President Joe Biden's desk after months of delays and contentious internal debate over how involved the United States should be abroad.

UK puts its defense industry on 'war footing' as it gives Ukraine $620 million in new military aid

WARSAW, Poland (AP) — U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced Tuesday that the country is putting its defense industry on a "war footing" by increasing defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by the end of the decade, amid NATO concerns of possible repercussions of Russia's war in Ukraine.

Columbia lets students attend class online amid growing campus protests over Israel's war in Gaza

NEW YORK (AP) — Columbia University's main campus will switch to hybrid learning — giving students the option to attend classes online rather than in person — for the rest of the semester amid protests over Israel's war with Hamas that have roiled colleges across the U.S.

Forum for House District 8 candidates April 24

Republican incumbent Rep. Tony Brockman is running against challenger Lukas Schubert in the June primary. Democratic Beth Sibert has also filed to run for the seat.

Evergreen man charged with assault on a peace officer

An Evergreen man picked up a fourth active felony case in Flathead County District Court after allegedly threatening deputies with a knife during an April 17 disturbance call.

A clean CFAC equals a brighter future

Columbia Falls Aluminum Company and Glencore representatives will be in Columbia Falls on Wednesday and Thursday, April 24 and 25. Don’t miss this opportunity to speak up for a brighter future and a more comprehensive cleanup of CFAC’s toxic waste dumps.

Authorities nab kidnapping suspect after victim escapes in Columbia Falls

Adam Joel Whiteman was being held in the county jail on Monday as prosecutors filed one count of felony kidnapping and misdemeanor counts of partner or family member assault and escape against him in Flathead County District Court.

Interior Department pushes Glacier Range Riders to drop logo

The U.S. Department of the Interior is calling foul on the Glacier Range Riders’ logo, arguing it violates trademark rights held by the National Park Service.

Law roundup: Truck throws mystery substance at vehicles

Three people in a white truck were purportedly driving around throwing chemicals at vehicles that “smelled sweet but burnt [their] tongue.”

Polluters must pay to clean up areas contaminated with forever chemicals

Industries that discharge toxic PFOA and PFOS compounds into the environment will now be held legally and financially responsible for the contamination, according to a final rule issued by the EPA on Friday.

Montana’s representatives come down against aid for Israel, Ukraine

U.S. Reps. Matt Rosendale and Ryan Zinke voted against funding for war-torn Israel and Ukraine in a $95 billion foreign aid package approved by the House on Saturday.

James L. Willmore, 64

We are sad to announce the passing of James Lester Willmore, 64 of Kalispell, on April 20, after a long battle with health issues.

Legals for April, 23 2024

Shirley Ann Thompson, 92

Shirley Ann Henneberry Thompson, 92, went to the loving arms of her husband, Earl Lindy Thompson on April 20, 2024.

Letters to the editor April 23

Letters to the editor April 23

Moose prompts shelter-in-place order at Helena school

Students at Capital High School in Helena had their schedule interrupted by a moose Friday morning after it wandered onto the campus, resulting in a shelter-in-place order as school and city officials responded.

Jury: BNSF Railway contributed to 2 deaths in Montana town where asbestos sickened thousands

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A federal jury on Monday said BNSF Railway contributed to the deaths of two people who were exposed to asbestos decades ago when tainted mining material was shipped through a Montana town where thousands have been sickened.

Trump tried to 'corrupt' the 2016 election, prosecutor alleges as hush money trial gets underway

NEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump tried to illegally influence the 2016 presidential election by preventing damaging stories about his personal life from becoming public, a prosecutor told jurors Monday at the start of the former president's historic hush money trial.

Veto override push on long-debated marijuana money bill falls short

A veto override effort on a much-debated marijuana revenue bill that initially passed the Montana Legislature with overwhelming bipartisan support last year has failed, according to poll results released Friday afternoon.

Legals for April, 22 2024

Law roundup: Woman rolls around the ground, screaming

A woman wearing a blue hoodie and purple pants was reportedly having quite the day when a law firm employee saw her rolling around on the ground, screaming.

Columbia Falls local returns to serve as Logan Health’s reconstructive surgeon

Thomas Wright began his tenure at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell in August of 2023. With an emphasis on breast reconstruction, Wright said he enjoys getting to know his patients and learning how to best solve their issues.

Cayuse Prairie School prepares to switch to four-day week

Cayuse Prairie School is moving to a four-day week next school year to balance the budget.

Scott Dukelow, 62

Scott Richard Dukelow, 62 of Somers, passed away on Nov. 2, 2023.

Flathead girls fourth in Optimist's meet, Glacier fifth

GREAT FALLS — Helena High looks ready for a three-peat, and Flathead’s Alivia Rinehart can really fly.

Letters to the editor April 21

Letters to the editor April 21

Evergreen levy request is warranted

Evergreen Fire and Rescue has always taken pride in maximizing its resources to best serve the community. The department is taking that same fiscally-prudent approach with an upcoming levy request to shore up staffing and fund new equipment purchases.

Ellsworth doesn't respect separation of powers

Primary candidate for clerk of the Montana Supreme Court, Jason Ellsworth, doesn’t understand or respect separation of powers — a core tenant of our American democracy that protects us all.

Whitefish boys, Columbia Falls girls win at Iceberg Invite

COLUMBIA FALLS — Whitefish senior Carson Krack set a personal record while winning the 400, teammates Simon Douglas, Azure Stolte and Carson Gulick also won events and the Bulldogs squeaked out the boys’ title at the Iceberg Invitational Saturday.

Legals for April, 21 2024

Glacier softball picks up two wins against Butte

BUTTE — Ella Farrell drove in five runs including a fourth inning grand slam and pitched a complete game Saturday, as Glacier picked up a pair of 12-1 victories over Butte in Western AA softball.

Kick out rote, kick up the roam

“Death Cafe”— it’s not your average cuppa. Intrigued, I headed to Whitefish on a recent spring afternoon to spend time in a coffee shop with 16 others discussing the end, our ends.

Judy Allen, 81

Judy Florence (Bilant) Allen, 81, passed away March 30, 2024, in Salem, Oregon.

Mobile dog gym brings exercise to the dogs

Helsi Mobile Dog Gym, Northwest Montana’s only mobile dog gym, comes equipped with two of these high-tech slat mills, and the opportunity to train dogs in a safe, controlled environment.

Legion: A Lakers walk off Chargers, twice

One week after a pair of one-run losses, the Kalispell A Lakers beat the Great Falls A Chargers 3-2 and 6-5, both in walk-off fashion. to sweep their Legion doubleheader at Archie Roe.

Environmental policy group sues DOJ over withheld communications with Canadian coal company

A Montana environmental policy group sued the state Department of Justice earlier this month, alleging the department is violating the organization’s right to know under the constitution by withholding communications between the department and a Canadian coal mining company whose pollution is flowing downstream to Montana.

Glenn Graham, 73

Glenn Graham, 73, passed away in December 2023 following a battle with cancer.

University of Montana students dive into science of fisheries

Led by Andrew Whiteley, an associate professor of fisheries and conservation genomics in the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, the class provides second-year students with opportunities to dive into the science of fisheries, literally.

Barbara Van Dusen, 90

Barbara Van Dusen went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, April 17, she was 90 years old.

Mohl drives in 6, Griz get 1st league win

MISSOULA — Needing someone to step up after dropping the opening game of Saturday’s doubleheader to Portland State at Grizzly Softball Field, Montana got it from both Grace Haegele and Kynzie Mohl.

Tyler John Bygren, 46

Our brilliant and beautiful Tyler lost his devastating battle with addiction on Sunday, April 15, 2024, at Billings Clinic Hospital.

Timothy Jeffords, 37

Timothy Earl Jeffords, 37 of Hot Springs, passed away on April 1, 2024, from a massive heart attack.

Why I’m appointing a new Senate committee

I recently announced that I’m in the process of appointing a new committee of the state Legislature.

Notable reenactor brings president Roosevelt to Flathead Valley

Historic impersonator Joe Wiegand will bring the former president to life with presentations at the Northwest Montana History Museum and Flathead Valley Community College

Nila McRae, 84

Nila McRae, 84, passed away in Phoenix, Arizona, on March 27, 2024, surrounded by her husband, three sons, and a granddaughter.

Jack L. “Jake” Boll, 85

Jake Boll, 85 of Bigfork, passed away after a short illness on Monday, April 8, 2024, at Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell.

Leslie Claudia Hunsinger, 67

Leslie Hunsinger, 1957-2024, recently passed on April 8, 2024, after a courageous three-year battle with liver cancer surrounded by the love of her family.

Montana is bullish on AI

By now you’ve probably heard that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the power to ‘democratize expertise,’ enabling countless innovations the likes of which we haven’t seen since the invention of electricity.

Polson softball cruises past Dillon Beavers

POLSON — Olivia Jore homered twice and drove in six runs as Polson defeated Dillon 18-3 in high school softball Saturday.

Legion: AA Lakers sweep Cranbrook

Kaden Drish drove in two runs in the opener and Trever Cockerill had three RBIs in the second game, and the Kalispell AA Lakers swept a Legion baseball doubleheader from Cranbrook, Alberta Saturday at Griffin Field.

Butte products shine in Sonny Holland Classic

BOZEMAN — On a day named for a Bobcat legend from Butte, two players from there shone in Montana State’s annual Sonny Holland Classic spring scrimmage in Bobcat Stadium on Saturday.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Law roundup: Partier crashes man’s tranquil slumber

A Whitefish resident was allegedly awakened by a man banging on his door.

Ballots go out April 18 for school levy request

The Whitefish School District is running a levy on May 7 to fund teacher and staff salaries and meet the needs of a growing student body.

Voters to decide on bonds for school expansion, football stadium

Whitefish voters this fall will consider separate bond requests totaling $32.6 million to fund a high school expansion and remodel, and build an on-campus football stadium and track.

Republicans vote to oppose constitutional abortion rights measure

Republican lawmakers on Thursday convened a hearing to discuss the constitutional abortion rights initiative that could appear on the November ballot, despite an April court order finding that the Legislature’s consideration would have no bearing on CI-128’s signature-gathering campaign.

Inmates held in Flathead County after attempted jail break

Lake County Sheriff Don Bell has released the names of the two inmates that allegedly assaulted a detention officer and attempted to escape the jail the evening of April 5.

Columbia Falls School District seeks support for roof replacement levy

Columbia Falls Public Schools will make a public push to inform voters about an upcoming building reserve levy request to fix the roof on the classroom wing of its high school.

Baseball: Wildcats double up Jackets, 10-5

Eureka wins in Washington

MISSOULA — Kellen Kroger brought in three runs and Matthew Mitts drove in two more as Columbia Falls defeated Stevensville 10-5 Friday in the Western Montana Showcase at Ogren Park.

C-Falls walks off Frenchtown

COLUMBIA FALLS — Bella Mann’s one-out RBI single tied the score in the seventh inning, and then Onnika Lawrence drew a bases-loaded walk to cap Columbia Falls’ 3-2 win over Frenchtown in Class A softball Friday.

Braves claim victory at Dahlberg Invite, Wolfpack third

BUTTE — William Hollensteiner set a personal record to win the 400 meters, and Flathead won the team title at the Harry “Swede” Dahlberg Invitational Friday at Bulldog Memorial Field.

Whitefish, C-Falls athletes shine at Corvallis Twilight meet

CORVALLIS — While Hamilton’s girls and the Corvallis boys ruled the team scores, Whitefish and Columbia Falls had some highlights at the Corvallis Twilight Meet held Thursday.

UM's Todd sets school javelin record

MISSOULA — A week after hitting 70 meters for the first time in his career, Montana's Evan Todd set a school record in the javelin at the Montana Open Friday at Dornblaser Stadium.

Lincoln County jury finds Montana Highway Patrol trooper's assailant guilty on all counts

A Lincoln County jury found the Eureka man accused of trying to kill Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Lewis Johnson in 2023 guilty on all counts Friday afternoon.

One person killed in house fire south of Bigfork

One person died and another was injured Thursday morning in a structure fire along Flathead Lake south of Woods Bay.

BNSF Railway says it didn't know about asbestos that's killed hundreds in Montana town

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — BNSF Railway attorneys are expected to argue before jurors Friday that the railroad should not be held liable for the lung cancer deaths of two former residents of an asbestos-contaminated Montana town, one of the deadliest sites in the federal Superfund pollution program.

Glacier National Park hosting junior ranger events

Families and children of all ages are invited to participate in Glacier National Park’s Junior Ranger Days during National Park Week.

A.L.E.R.T. air ambulance staff provided comfort for highway patrol trooper after grisly injury

Gravely injured after being struck by the vehicle of a fleeing suspect in a remote stretch of Lincoln County last year, Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Lewis Johnson felt a wave of relief when he learned an A.L.E.R.T. air ambulance was en route.

Bigfork's iconic pine tree comes down

An iconic Bigfork tree that stood outside of the Tall Pine lounge, which was itself named after the tree, was cut down April 3. The species was estimated to be four centuries old.

Law roundup: Legally parked car threatens to disrupt boating plans

A man worried that a vehicle parked in an alley behind Ninth Avenue West would disrupt his boating plans and phoned the Kalispell Police Department looking for help.

Legals for April, 19 2024

Jerome Sand, 91

Jerome was 91 at the time of his passing. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend.

Testing shows one Kalispell well above federal limits on forever chemicals

Four wells in Kalispell tested positive last month for what are known as forever chemicals, though only one shows levels above limits newly set by the Biden administration, city officials say.

Big Sky Hall inducting Holland, Kollar, Read

One Grizzly — “Papa Bear” — and two Bobcats are part of the 2024 Big Sky Conference Hall of Fame induction class that was announced Thursday by the league office.

Briefs: Babe Ruth opens play Saturday; Polson re-hires Kelley; Table tennis

Kalispell’s Babe Ruth Baseball Association is holding its opening ceremonies on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at KidSport.

A Lakers look to pile up innings, victories

Open home slate Saturday

The Kalispell A Lakers enter their 2024 baseball season with just three veterans, which even by Class A American Legion standards is a small number.

Julie Ann Lightner, 67

Julie Ann Lightner, 67, passed away Saturday, April 13, 2024, at Benefis Hospital in Great Falls, of natural causes.

Ranchland conserved near National Bison Range

A conservation easement is a voluntary legal agreement that limits development on the land to protect its conservation values. John Weaver put the first half of his ranch, 159 acres, under an easement in 2015.

Montana's congressional delegation leery of reauthorizing surveillance bill

Opponents of Congress’ reauthorization of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act last week include Montana Reps. Ryan Zinke and Matt Rosendale.

Whitefish tennis sweeps Flathead

Jack Ochlerich earned a three-set victory over Holden Askvig and the Whitefish boys swept Flathead 8-0, while Alivia Lusko led the Whitefish girls to a 7-1 victory over the Bravettes Thursday in high school tennis.

Pack slugs 3 HRs, beats Bravettes 9-2

Three different Glacier players hit home runs and Ella Farrell delivered a complete game in the circle as the Wolfpack defeated Flathead 9-2 in Crosstown softball Thursday.

FVCC earns designation as military-friendly school

For 2024-2025, FVCC is recognized as a silver recipient in the small community college category.

Evergreen community breaks ground on sidewalk project along U.S. 2

Evergreen community leaders, joined by Gov. Greg Gianforte, broke ground Thursday on the first phase of a long-awaited project bringing sidewalks to a stretch of busy U.S. 2.

Biden administration moves to make conservation an equal to industry on US lands

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — The Biden administration on Thursday finalized a new rule for public land management that's meant to put conservation on more equal footing with oil drilling, grazing and other extractive industries on vast government-owned properties.

Comedy-drama ‘Steel Magnolias’ opens in Bigfork

Michele Mank (formerly Shapero) directed “Steel Magnolias” nine years ago in 2015 and, after directing a dozen plays with the Bigfork Community Players, she is directing “Steel Magnolias” a second time.

Grammy winner Mark O'Connor to perform with Glacier Symphony

Mark O'Connor, a three-time Grammy winner and seven-time Country Music Awards Musician of the Year is set to captivate audiences alongside his wife, the acclaimed violinist Maggie O'Connor at the Wachholz College Center April 20.

Trial of man accused of running down Montana Highway Patrol trooper underway in Libby

The trial of a Lincoln County man accused of running over a Montana Highway Patrol trooper during a law enforcement pursuit more than a year ago is underway in Libby.

Tickets on sale to see Toad the Wet Sprocket

Toad The Wet Sprocket is coming to the Wachholz College Center July 25.

WTC hosts adult prom

With the theme “A Fairy Tale Evening” this community party is complete with enchanting fairy tale décor, DJ, free photo booth, and food and drinks. No formal dress is necessary but prom attire — old, new and everything in between — is encouraged.

Ratings: Montana ‘worst’ for drunk driving fatalities

Montana is No. 1 in the nation for drunk driving fatalities, according to a new ranking by Forbes.

Band Tin Finley brings strong melodies to Polson theater performance

For Polson native Kati O’Toole, the concert April 20 at the Theatre on the Lake in Polson marks a musical homecoming. The Polson High School grad joins another alum, bassist Eric Hogenson, and friends and bandmates Annette Strean and Kirk Cornelius in Tin Finley – a band named after Nashville’s famed Tin Angel restaurant (where three of the four members either met or worked) and inspired by the quartet’s Montana roots.

Three-story hotel proposed for Bigfork

A 64-room hotel is planned for a new subdivision on the north side of Bigfork.

WTC wraps up ‘Silent Sky’ this weekend

Brought to the stage by the Whitefish Theatre Company the thought-provoking show has three more performances on April 18, 19 and 20 at 7:30 p.m.

Flathead’s Moore signs with Wake Forest

Kennedy Moore is going to be a Demon Deacon.

Column: Walburn finds his stride in the Palouse

Lee Walburn found a gem in the Palouse, as people call the area around Washington State University in Pullman.

Farrell finds her groove

Glacier’s ace leads Pack in senior season

A pick-up player at the ripe age of 9 years old, Ella Farrell remembers being asked to play outfield for a cousin’s softball team in Helena. Which was fine, right up until she saw that player in the pitcher’s circle.

Movie Night at the Museum to show ‘Silver Streak’ with Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor

The 1976 film “Silver Streak” will be shown for Movie Night at the Museum.

25,000 climate conversations

“The most important thing you can do about climate change is talk about it.” That’s the advice climate scientist Dr. Katharine Hayhoe gave during a TED Talk that has now been viewed over 4 million times.

Flathead High School presents new take on ‘Macbeth’

Flipping traditional gender roles by creating a dominant and ambitious female Macbeth with a loyal sister spurring her relentless ambition instead of a spouse, this interpretation of “Macbeth” challenges traditional casting norms and creates new avenues for exploring themes of ambition, power dynamics, and the consequences of unchecked desire.

Spring firewood gathering

Spring is here in the Flathead with its ever-expanding variety of outdoor activities. Last weekend was just too nice to stay indoors, so I had to do a little hiking just to get out and soak up some spring sunshine.

John "Hutch" Russell Hutchens, 74

John Russell Hutchens, 74, passed away at his home near Whitefish, on April 7, 2024, after a long battle with cancer.

Law roundup: The boom is lowered for man

A man standing in front of a business was reportedly shouting “boom” and punching the air, making customers uncomfortable. Kalispell Police Department counseled the shadowboxer and moved him along.

Letters to the editor April 18

Letters to the editor April 18

Mack Days angler lands, releases bull trout

Spring Mack Days, sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and sanctioned by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, is moving into week number six in the nine-week long event. Entries continue to be taken until 3 p.m. Saturday, May 11.

All eyes on elephant that escaped circus, wandered through Butte traffic

BUTTE — There was some excitement at about noon Tuesday as Tola, an elephant with the Jordan World Circus escaped from the Butte Civic Center and headed down Harrison Avenue despite the heavy traffic.

Flathead County approves sale of property to Lakeside sewer district

Flathead County commissioners on Tuesday approved the sale of 36.9 acres to the Lakeside County Water and Sewer District.

Whitefish sweeps Cat-Dog tennis

Home and away, the Whitefish Bulldogs were just too good.

Two levies will be on the May ballot for Kalispell Public Schools

Kalispell Public Schools is putting a high school general fund levy and an elementary technology levy on the May ballot for amounts that still fall short of covering a looming budget deficit.

Leslie Claudia Hunsinger, 67

Leslie Hunsinger, 1957 - 2024, recently passed on April 8, 2024 after a courageous three-year battle with liver cancer surrounded by the love of her family.

Earth Day Expo expands to FVCC campus with workshops and activities for all ages

Hosting the event, the Flathead Valley chapter of the Citizens Climate Lobby is a national nonprofit organization that advocates for Congress to take up bipartisan climate solutions.

Columbia Falls will continue to explore affordable housing at Railroad Street

Columbia Falls City Council earlier this month gave the nod to moving forward with an affordable housing project at Railroad Street after hearing some assurances from a Habitat for Humanity representative that the houses would be affordable and would remain that way through their lifespan.

Cookie recipe puts spin on a favorite

Oatmeal chocolate chip cookies are nothing new, but I wanted to take my own spin on them.

Flathead sweeps crosstown track

Glacier throwers set records

Glacier throwers Aiden Krause and Kai Johnson combined to break three Crosstown meet records en route to taking victories in the boys and girls discus and shot put events Tuesday. Flathead, though, provided some speed and depth.

Two Republicans and a Democrat vie for newly-drawn House District 11

Three candidates are looking to represent the newly-drawn House District 11, an area encompassing southeast Kalispell, Creston, Lake Blaine and north Bigfork, come November.

Vikings, Lions win Libby Invitational

LIBBY — Wyatt Johnson swept the hurdles, Jack Jensen took the 1,600 and the Bigfork Vikings won the boys team title at Saturday’s Libby Invitational track and field meet.

Glacier slugs way to wins in Great Falls

Bravettes beat CMR for split

GREAT FALLS — Zoey Allen hit two homers in the first game and Paishance Haller and Olivia Warriner each hit grand slams in the nightcap as Glacier won two non-conference softball games Tuesday.

Vibrant Roots employs wellness of bees, mushrooms and herbs

Brooke Lynn Dodson, the owner and founder of Whitefish-based Vibrant Roots, has put nature at the foundation of her company by applying wellness traditions pertaining to bees, mushrooms, and herbs.

C-Falls hands Eureka first loss

COLUMBIA FALLS — Cody Schweikert drove in four runs, two coming on a bases-loaded grounder in the pivotal third inning, and Columbia Falls handed Eureka its first baseball loss Tuesday, 6-3.

Easement would protect 33,000 acres between Kalispell and Libby

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is moving ahead with plans to place 33,000 acres of private timberland between Kalispell and Libby under a conservation easement.

Polson beats Trotters 15-0

PLAINS — Polson’s Samantha Rensvold threw three innings of one-hit ball and the Pirates beat Plains 15-0 in non-conference softball Tuesday night.

Legals for April, 17 2024

John Mercer applies to fill judicial vacancy

Longtime Polson attorney and former state legislator and Speaker of the House John Mercer has applied to fill the remaining office term of former District Court Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher, who resigned from the bench effective April 5.

Libby woman admits stealing mail while working as a contract carrier

A Libby woman accused of stealing from packages while working as a mail carrier subcontractor admitted to a theft charge last week in federal court in Missoula.

Law roundup: Rotten eggs wreak havoc

Someone reportedly threw eggs at a thrift store, tossed food all over the porch and parking lot and possibly rummaged through donations that had been dropped off, leaving a huge mess.

Facing a Republican revolt, House Speaker Johnson pushes ahead on US aid for Ukraine, allies

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defiant and determined, House Speaker Mike Johnson pushed back Tuesday against mounting Republican anger over his proposed U.S. aid package for Ukraine, Israel and other allies, and rejected a call to step aside or risk a vote to oust him from office.

Legals for April, 16 2024

Man accused of running over ex-wife pleads not guilty to new charges

Prosecutors added additional felony counts of leaving the scene of a vehicle accident involving serious bodily injury or death and tampering with physical evidence in Kenneth James Floyd’s negligent homicide case in late March.

Assault suspect allegedly attacked Kalispell Police officers

Prosecutors brought Matthew Timothy Kuehnel, who does not have an address listed with the court, up on a felony count of assault on a peace officer and a misdemeanor count of assault following a pair of alleged confrontations on March 21.

Crowded field of Republicans vie to replace Rosendale

The crowded Republican primary contest to replace retiring Congressman Matt Rosendale in Montana’s Eastern District U.S. House race is continuing to take shape.

Letters to the editor April 16

Letters to the editor April 16

Dems indicate they won't participate in judicial oversight committee

Montana’s Senate president on Friday announced the appointment of three House Republicans and five Senate Democrats to the Republicans’ newly created select committee on judicial oversight and invited House Democrats to join, but the Democrats said it’s still highly unlikely they participate, calling the committee an attack on the judicial branch and saying it is unnecessary.

911 dispatchers keep the valley safe

To our valued 911 dispatchers and technical experts at the Flathead County Emergency Communications Center, as Monday commences National 911 Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, we wanted to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude and appreciation for the invaluable service and dedication you provide to Flathead County each day.

U.S. House passes gateway community legislation

U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke’s bipartisan Gateway Communities and Recreation Enhancement Act passed the House of Representatives last week as part of a larger outdoor recreation policy package.

Law roundup: Man scares customers with singing and dancing

A noisy, shirtless man hanging out in a parking lot by a white Chevy with out-of-state license plates was purportedly scaring customers with his dancing, singing and yelling. An employee described his boisterous behavior as tweaking and wanted him kicked off the property.

New rules for Pregnant Workers Fairness Act include divisive accommodations for abortion

The language means that workers can ask for time off to obtain an abortion and recover from the procedure. It also covers other pregnancy-related medical conditions like miscarriage, stillbirth and lactation.

Paris prepares for 100-day countdown to the Olympics

April 17 marks the 100 days countdown to the Paris Olympics ambitious opening ceremony. The first Games in a century in France's capital will be judged not only for the sporting spectacle. Another yardstick will be their impact on disadvantaged Paris suburbs away from iconic city-center landmarks hosting much of the action.

Rainier Beer shortage has Seattle taps dry and fans frothing

It hasn't always been easy for Seattle fans of Rainier Beer. There were the traumas of the 1970s, when the quintessential Seattle company was sold to the first in a string of out-of-state beer conglomerates.

Trump's historic hush-money trial gets underway; 1st day ends without any jurors being picked

NEW YORK (AP) — The historic hush-money trial of Donald Trump got underway Monday with the arduous process of selecting a jury to hear the case charging the former president with falsifying business records in order to stifle stories about his sex life.

Asbestos victim's dying words aired in wrongful death case against Buffet's railroad

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Thomas Wells ran a half-marathon at age 60 and played recreational volleyball until he was 63. At 65 years old, doctors diagnosed him with mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive lung cancer linked to asbestos exposure.

Supreme Court allows Idaho to enforce its ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth

The Supreme Court is allowing Idaho to enforce its ban on gender-affirming care for transgender youth while lawsuits over the law proceed, reversing lower courts.

Tesla plans to lay off 10% of workforce after dismal quarterly sales, multiple news outlets report

After reporting dismal first-quarter sales, Tesla is planning to lay off about a tenth of its workforce as it tries to cut costs, multiple media outlets reported Monday. CEO Elon Musk detailed the plans in a memo sent to employees.

Law roundup: Man gets on his knees refusing to move

A vehicle came upon a drunk man allegedly standing in the middle of the road at 1:46 a.m. As the vehicle crept closer he eerily “got down on all fours” and ...

Whitefish looks to update affordable townhouse project agreement

Whitefish City Council on Monday will consider updating the city’s agreement to allow for a greater range of purchase prices on homes in the Depot Park townhomes project.

AA Lakers salvage split of opening twinbill

Carter Schlegel threw four innings of sharp relief and broke a 6-6 tie with an RBI single as the Kalispell AA Lakers beat Missoula 10-6 to earn a split of their season-opening doubleheader Sunday.

Legals for April, 15 2024

Quilter uses colors to bring out the art in traditional patterns

Walking around Barb Taylor’s home her enthusiasm for art in many different mediums becomes apparent.

Bravettes earn split on Kinsey Lake double

HELENA — The Flathead Bravettes totaled three hits in two softball games Saturday, and all three of them came against Helena High. One of those hits was big:

A Lakers drop both ends of doubleheader in Missoula

MISSOULA — The Kalispell A Lakers started their season with a couple walk-off losses Friday, with Missoula winning both ends of a doubleheader by scores of 10-9 and 8-7.

Letters to the editor April 15

Letters to the editor April 15

Conceptual plans emerge for luxury resort in Lakeside

Four years ago, Glenn Housman invested in 100 acres at the end of Blacktail Heights Road atop a knob above Lakeside.

Baseball: Eureka outscores Browning 16-0

BROWNING — AJ Truman threw three no hit innings and Eureka plated 11 runs in the second frame en route to a 16-0 victory over Browning Saturday in high school baseball.

Concerned about Flathead Lake Levels this summer? Why you should be now.

Last summer I was lucky, I took my boat out a month early to ensure I could. Will history repeat itself this summer?

Glacier girls sweep in Great Falls; Bravettes draw with Bison

GREAT FALLS — Will Rudbach claimed a 6-0, 6-0 victory and the Glacier boys tennis team swept all eight matches against Great Falls Saturday.

Gene Clifford Ruby, 90

Gene Clifford Ruby, 90, took his final call March 25, 2024, boarding his last train to ride the rails for eternity.

Column: Another Griz Spring Game, another win

A rite of spring back in my Billings Gazette days was that co-worker Bill Bihaus would go to a Rocky Mountain College football scrimmage.

Glacier, Flathead split road softball games

HELENA — Emma Cooke homered twice and Ella Farrell threw a three-hitter, but the Glacier Wolfpack managed just a split of their two games against the Helena schools Saturday.

CRYJ — A model for youth restorative justice in Montana

Spending one to three months working on accountability, roughly 95% of participants will walk out that door having completed “restorative agreements,” entered into by the teens and their families, according to CRYJ Executive Director Catherine Gunderson.

Balancing tourism and livability a tall order

Whitefish locals’ increasingly worrisome attitude toward tourism took center stage at a workshop last week hosted by the Whitefish Sustainable Tourism Management Plan committee.

Businesses honored as Employers of Choice

The Kalispell Job Service Employers' Council received over 300 nominations of area businesses from employees representing multiple job types, industries, and professions, according to the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

Put voters back in charge

Most of us don’t need a poll or a survey to tell us our politics are broken. Montana voters deserve more freedom, better choices, and greater accountability from our elected leaders.

Vonda Lee Seliger, 83

Vonda Lee Seliger, born on Sept. 7, 1940, in Stanley, North Dakota, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2024, at the age of 83.

Applications for state property tax assistance programs due Monday

Low-income Montanans seeking help paying their property tax bills have until Tax Day this coming Monday, April 15, to apply for aid through two state relief programs administered by the Montana Department of Revenue — including the flagship Property Tax Assistance Program intended to keep property tax bills from forcing low-income homeowners out of their homes.

Letters to the editor April 14

Letters to the editor April 14

Photographer captures scenes of family and motherhood

Through yearbook and photojournalism classes, working in dark rooms to develop film, and online courses, she found a knack for the creative outlet and after her second child was born, she decided to embark on a business venture and officially start Sarah Taylor Photography.

Legals for April, 14 2024

Warming Center helps solve the challenges it is accused of creating

Kalispell City Council’s upcoming work session to discuss challenges surrounding homelessness demonstrates they are doing their job.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events happening in the Flathead Valley

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead businesses

Flathead boys set 4 records, win MCPS Invitational.

MISSOULA — Most people knew the Flathead Braves could jump. On Saturday they ran as well, and won the boys team title at the MCPS Invitational track and field meet.

Sports Briefs: Pee Opening Day, Todd hits javelin PR

The public is invited to the Kalispell Pee Wee Baseball Opening Day, which starts at 9:15 a.m. at KidSport and will include 26 games.

Iran launches missile and drone attack on Israel

Booms and air raid sirens sounded across Israel early Sunday after Iran launched hundreds of drones, ballistic missiles and cruise missiles in an unprecedented revenge mission that pushed the Middle East closer to a regionwide war.

Glacier's Krause uncorks huge throw at Butte meet

BUTTE — Plenty of personal records were set by Glacier athletes at their track and field dual with the Butte Bulldogs, including Cole Opre and Creed Wiley in the pole vault. The Wolfpack's Aiden Krause went a bit beyond that.

Van Orden walk-off single lifts Eureka over Whitefish

EUREKA — Tyce Van Orden hit a walk-off single in the seventh inning to give Eureka a 9-8 win over Whitefish Friday in high school baseball.

Lakers begin 2024 season Sunday

The Kalispell Lakers AA American Legion team will field a fairly young lineup when its season begins Sunday at 1 p.m., with a doubleheader at Griffin Field against Missoula.

Glacier Park's Sun Road plowed beyond The Loop

Glacier National Park could see a spring snowstorm Tuesday into Wednesday, the National Weather Service is warning, and the higher elevations could see a foot to 2 feet of snow. Highs will only be in the 30s to low 40s in the valleys.

FVCC’s kids college registration begins

Flathead Valley Community College’s Continuing Education Center Kids College summer classes registration began April 10.

EQC to send letters urging pause in Columbia Falls Superfund site cleanup decision

Montana’s Environmental Quality Council voted unanimously Wednesday to send letters to Congress and the Environmental Protection Agency recommending support for rare-earth mining in the Berkeley Pit and for a pause in a final decision on the proposed cleanup plan for the Columbia Falls Aluminum Company Superfund site.

Drunk driver sentenced to 20 years for death of Kalispell pedestrian

The New Jersey woman convicted of killing a pedestrian on U.S. 2 in Kalispell while driving under influence in 2022 received a decades-long prison sentence in Flathead County District Court on Thursday.

Law roundup: Neighbor child commits foul with noisy play

Deeming the behavior of a neighborhood child offsides, a resident phoned the Kalispell Police Department hoping they could give a red card.

Area Prep Tennis Results

Whitefish girls 6, Libby 1 SINGLES: Alivia Lusko, Whitefish def. Riley Walgamott 6-1, 6-0; Liesl Brust, Whitefish def. Bella Meyer 6-0, 6-2; Ainsley Grubb, Whitefish def. Ryelie Lisle 6-0, 6-0; Gretel Vine, Whitefish def. Claire Fantozzi 6-1, 6-1.

Hood slugs Big Sky past Bravettes

Missoula Big Sky’s Grace Hood homered twice and drove in six runs Thursday, leading the Eagles over Flathead 15-4 in Western AA softball at KidSport.

Biologist discusses trout during FVCC STEM Colloquium

Flathead Valley Community College STEM Colloquium presents speaker Sam Bourret from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks on Friday, April 26 at noon.

Wolfpack sweeps Crosstown tennis

Will Rudbach and Sam Engellant paired up to lead a Glacier doubles sweep of Flathead, while Leilani Lennarz grabbed a straight set victory to lead the Glacier girls over the Bravettes in Crosstown tennis Thursday.

Baseball: Dogs top Cats, 7-5

COLUMBIA FALLS — Michael Miller hit two home runs, including a tie-breaking three-run shot in the fifth inning, and Whitefish held on to beat Columbia Falls 7-5 in high school baseball Thursday at Sapa-Johnsrud Field.

Wolfpack edges Sentinel, 5-4

Zoey Allen’s two-out RBI single broke a 4-4 tie in the fifth inning, and Glacier held on to beat visiting Missoula Sentinel 5-4 in Western AA softball Thursday.

Softball: Polson beats Libby; Ronan topples C-Falls

POLSON — Carli Maley and Olivia Jore knocked in two runs each as Polson used a four-run sixth inning to pull away from Libby for a 7-3 victory Tuesday.

Legals for April, 12 2024

Sally Marie Dreyer, 69

Sally Marie Dreyer, 69, passed away on March 25, 2024, from heart disease which she fought for eight years.

Native UM student works to create missing persons database

Haley Omeasoo was already studying forensic science at the University of Montana when she saw the poster that redefined her life. The 2017 poster announced that her former high school classmate, Ashley Loring HeavyRunner, had gone missing on the Blackfeet Reservation in northern Montana. Just 20 at the time, HeavyRunner has never been found in the seven years since.

Housing Whitefish disburses first payments for assistance program

Housing Whitefish has distributed the first payments for the Whitefish Workforce Assistance Program.

Families that adopt eligible to receive a credit this tax season

Families who adopted on or after July 1, 2022 are eligible for a refundable tax credit alongside their 2023 tax return.

Donald Trump Jr. to campaign with Gianforte, Zinke in Missoula

Donald Trump Jr. will appear alongside Gov. Greg Gianforte and U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke for a campaign event and fundraiser on Sunday, April 28, at the University of Montana.

Whitefish hosts weatherization and electrification workshop

The city of Whitefish is hosting a weatherization and electrification workshop on April 30.

Kalispell hotel fire damage estimated at $4 million

A three-story hotel on Kalispell’s west side suffered extensive damage in a structure fire Wednesday afternoon that drew one of the largest firefighter responses in the valley in more than a decade.

The Biden administration will require thousands more gun dealers to run background checks on buyers

WASHINGTON (AP) — Thousands more firearms dealers across the United States will have to run background checks on buyers at gun shows or other places outside brick-and-mortar stores, according to a Biden administration rule that will soon go into effect.

OJ Simpson, fallen football hero acquitted of murder in 'trial of the century,' dies at 76

LAS VEGAS (AP) — O.J. Simpson, the decorated football superstar and Hollywood actor who was acquitted of charges he killed his former wife and her friend but later found liable in a separate civil trial, has died. He was 76.

Columbia Falls Community Choir April 13

The Columbia Falls Community Choir has been hard at work preparing for their spring concert at the Columbia Falls High School Little Theater on Saturday, April 13 at 7 p.m.

WTC holds auditions for ‘Death by Design’

Whitefish Theatre Company is holding auditions for “Death By Design,” their final Main Stage production of the 2023-2024 season.

Museum exhibit features 75 years of learning at Kalispell’s Central School

Rekindle memories of school days of yore, or explore what it was like for kids years ago, at a new temporary exhibit, Timeless Lessons at Central School 1894-1969, opening at the Northwest Montana History Museum on April 12.

Letters to the editor April 11

Letters to the editor April 11

Bird of the month: Cinnamon teal

Did you know that the cinnamon teal is not only a small, rust colored dabbling duck but also a protagonist in the Disney movie series, “DuckTales”?

Montana needs a representative willing to fight for Montana

During my second tour to Iraq as a U.S. Marine, my unit was tasked to help secure the Syrian border. We had received intel that Iran was sending weapons into Syria to smuggle across the border for use against American troops.

Law roundup: Clash of the coworkers

A man following up on a reckless driving complaint in Columbia Falls told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office it should be changed to a harassment complaint after hearing from colleagues that it was an ex-coworker who allegedly drove by his house yelling because he was angry over being fired for drawing swastikas “all over.”

Paganini Unleashed concert April 12

Wai Mizutani presents Paganini Unleashed, the second of Mizutani's concert series at the Wachholz College Center on April 12.

Welcome to the end of democracy

“Welcome to the end of democracy. We are here to overthrow it completely,” said conservative activist Jack Posobiec at the February 2024 meeting of the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC). To which Steve Bannon, former Trump advisor said, “Amen.”

Musicians and speakers continue entertaining April at Wachholz College Center

Entertainment and inspiration continue during a packed lineup of events this month at the Wachholz College Center on the campus of Flathead Valley Community College.

Wolfpack Theatre presents Shakespeare favorites

Experience two classic pieces of Shakespeare presented in two contrasting settings and styles when the Wolfpack Theatre Company’s Acting and Stage Production classes combine forces to present “Romeo and Juliet” and “The Taming of the Shrew.”

FVCC theater and music departments present musical farce

In this hilarious mash-up of 16th-century Shakespeare and 21st-century Broadway, Nick and Nigel Bottom are desperate to write a hit play but are stuck in the shadow of the Renaissance rock star.

Don Dramstad, 79

Don Dramstad, 79, passed away in Ormond Beach, Florida, on March 28, 2024.

Baseball: Ronan downs Browning

RONAN — DaVonne Curley, Liam Wills and Ben Mitchell combined for eight hits and 10 runs batted in Wednesday, and Ronan downed Browning 19-1 in high school baseball.

Knife-wielding man given deferred sentence

A man accused of threatening a Kalispell resident with a knife in August earned a one-year deferred sentence in Flathead County District Court earlier this year.

Locals sour on tourism's impact on Whitefish

Local Whitefish residents are increasingly at odds with the tourism industry's impact on the city, even as visitation levels have tapered off since the frantic summers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Work session on homeless shelter should focus on permit, Graham says

Kalispell City Councilor Chad Graham said Monday that he expected an upcoming work session on the Flathead Warming Center’s conditional use permit to be limited in participation and scope.

Score to Settle: Glacier's Speer, Downs chase doubles title

Following a 2023 season that saw Glacier’s dynamic duo lose just one match, Downs and partner Haven Speer are ready to take the top step of the podium. That one loss: the state championship match to Missoula Hellgate’s Brooke Best and Laine Banzinger.

Karin Carmichael Dyer, 60

Karin Carmichael Dyer, passed away March 29, 2024, at her home in Big Fork, at the age of 60.

Legals for April, 11 2024

Three-year-old sex education law draws a legal challenge

The constitutionality of a 2021 state law governing parental notification of sex-related discussions in public schools is now being challenged by a coalition of Montana students, teachers and associations representing school counselors and psychologists.

PHOTOS: Firefighters battle blaze at Quality Inn in Kalispell

Firefighters from Kalispell Fire Department, with support from South Kalispell, West Valley, Evergreen and Whitefish fire departments battled a fire at the Quality Inn on U.S. Highway 2 West on Wednesday, April 10.

Biden administration sets first-ever limits on 'forever chemicals' in drinking water

The Biden administration on Wednesday finalized strict limits on certain so-called "forever chemicals" in drinking water that will require utilities to reduce them to the lowest level they can be reliably measured. Officials say this will reduce exposure for 100 million people and help prevent thousands of illnesses, including cancers.

Columbia Falls Boys and Girls Club moves into former school

The Boys and Girls Club in Columbia Falls has moved into a new location at the former Glacier Gateway Elementary School.

Land trust receives grants for affordable housing

The grants will be used as part of the funding for six affordable homes in Columbia Falls, Kalispell and Whitefish, according to the land trust.

Teen picks up felony assault charge while awaiting sentencing for fight involving brass knuckles

Daisy Hope Crothers of Kalispell is facing a felony count of assault with a weapon in Flathead County District Court following the alleged April 3 confrontation.

Softball: Big Sky topples Glacier 5-1

MISSOULA — Missoula’s Briella Wilson outdueled Ella Farrell, and the Eagles beat the defending state champion Glacier Wolfpack 5-1 in Western AA softball Tuesday.

County planning board returns to industrial subdivision south of Kalispell

The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday will again consider a request for a residential and commercial/industrial subdivision south of Kalispell.

History foundation awards grants to Northwest Montana projects

Grants were awarded to three different organizations in Northwest Montana.

Bucky Boies, 33

Robert Buckley “Bucky” Boies, 33, of Bigfork, tragically passed into the arms of God on March 10, 2024. He was born Oct. 8, 1990, in Williamsburg, Virginia, to David Boies (III) and Robin Lou Boies (Weiss).

FEC holds annual meeting April 18

The Annual Meeting & Energy Expo open house will be Thursday, April 18 at Flathead Valley Community College’s Wachholz College Center.

Montana lawmakers call for tighter security on the northern border

Concerned about a surge in immigration along the northern border, Montana lawmakers are pushing the Biden administration to tighten security.

Talk looks at vanished Montana town that was once America's wickedest

John Shontz, Helena lawyer and author, will tell the story of the short-lived town in a presentation April 15 in Kalispell.

Legals for April, 10 2024

Montana Poet Laureate stops at Whitefish library

A Métis storyteller and Little Shell Chippewa member, La Tray received the Montana Book Award for his book, “One-Sentence Journal: Short Poems and Essays from the World at Large,” and has been traveling Montana extensively as the Poet Laureate for the biennial 2023-2024.

Sheehy says he lied about accidental discharge, gunshot wound incident in Glacier

Montana Republican U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy told The Washington Post in a story published during the weekend he had lied to a Glacier National Park ranger about accidentally shooting himself in the arm to try to protect other military service members from what he believed could lead to an investigation into how he actually ended up with a bullet in his arm.

High marks hit at Kalispell Time Trials

The annual Kalispell Time Trials took place Tuesday at Legends Stadium, and out of a cast of 100s several nice marks were penned.

Baseball: Bigfork picks up win

Whitefish falls at Corvallis

TROY — Bigfork leadoff hitter Ryeln Rodriguez had two hits, scored three times and drive ein three runs as the Vikings picked up their first baseball victory Tuesday, 13-0 at Troy.

Robert James "Mac" McDonald, 95

Robert James McDonald, 95, known as Mac, passed away on April 7, 2024, in Kalispell.

Anne Francelle Gentry, 92

Anne Francelle Gentry

Whitefish Mountain Resort wraps up season with dip in total skier visits

After shaking off a dreadfully slow start to winter, Whitefish Mountain Resort capped its ski season last weekend with plentiful powder alongside pond skim shenanigans.

Softball: Wildkats rally past Pirates

POLSON — Maddie Moultray threw a complete game, Haden Peters homered and drove in four runs and Columbia Falls rallied to beat Northwest A foe Polson 10-6 in softball Tuesday.

Law roundup: Caller falsely accuses homeless person of lewd behavior

Investigating a report of a possibly homeless person allegedly committing lewd sexual acts on a public bench, officers with the Kalispell Police Department saw none of the described behavior after spotting and observing the man. Attempts to raise by phone the person who called in were unsuccessful and officers were unable to leave a message.

New EPA rule says 218 US chemical plants must reduce toxic emissions that are likely to cause cancer

WASHINGTON (AP) — More than 200 chemical plants nationwide will be required to reduce toxic emissions that are likely to cause cancer under a new rule issued Tuesday by the Environmental Protection Agency. The rule advances President Joe Biden's commitment to environmental justice by delivering critical health protections for communities burdened by industrial pollution from ethylene oxide, chloroprene and other dangerous chemicals, officials said.

Florida woman is sentenced to a month in jail for selling Biden's daughter's diary

NEW YORK (AP) — A Florida mother was sentenced Tuesday to a month in prison and three months of home confinement for stealing and selling President Joe Biden's daughter's diary four years ago to the conservative group Project Veritas.

Sister of Maine mass shooting victim calls lawmakers' 11th-hour bid for red flag law 'nefarious'

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — The sister of one of the victims of the deadliest shooting in Maine history accused lawmakers of acting "nefariously" by pressing at the 11th hour of the legislative session for a so-called red flag law that could be used to take away guns from someone experiencing a psychiatric crisis. Others, however, said such a law could have saved lives.

Kalispell woman dies after being struck on U.S. 2

According to the report, the driver was traveling west on U.S. 2 when the car struck the deceased on a dark stretch of road that wasn’t in a designated crosswalk.

Competent and effective leadership matters

This is a hopeful time for so many of our students. The future is bright as graduation nears and families beam with pride, anticipating their child walking across that stage.

Law roundup: Horror film comes to life in Columbia Falls

In a scene straight out of an ‘80s slasher film, a teenager described how an ominous man in a black tracksuit began tailing her after school to investigators with the Columbia Falls Police Department.

Letters to the editor April 9

Letters to the editor April 9

Whitefish School Board to consider new plan for high school expansion, sports complex

The Whitefish School Board on Tuesday will consider whether the district should pursue two separate bonds totaling $32.6 million to fund a high school expansion and remodel, and build an on-campus athletic complex.

Lake County standoff suspect allegedly opened fire at authorities

A 63-year-old Lake County man is behind bars after allegedly firing at law enforcement personnel during a Saturday evening standoff on Kerr Dam Road.

Lake County Sheriff: Inmates attacked officer during attempted jailbreak

Two Lake County inmates attacked a detention center officer in a foiled escape attempt Friday, authorities say.

Legals for April, 9 2024

Zinke lauds decision to hold more water in Flathead Lake this spring

Republican U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke applauded Monday a plan to hold more water in Flathead Lake this spring.

Column: Area ADs work among giants

When Libby High graduate Jerek Wolcott, the assistant athletic director at the University of Idaho, needed volunteers for the East Regional of the NCAA Tournament he knew just who to call.

Groups go to court to get wolves relisted in Montana, Idaho and Wyoming

A prediction, several years in the making, came true on Monday when an alliance of nearly a dozen conservation groups filed suit against the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bureau of Land Management, seeking to restore protections for gray wolves in Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming arguing that the states’ aggressive hunting policies imperils the populations.

Births

Births

A figure of speech — Flathead High School teacher named Speech Coach of the Year

To say it’s been a whirlwind year for Flathead High School speech and debate head coach and English teacher Shannon O’Donnell is an understatement.

Legals for April, 8 2024

Letters to the editor April 8

Letters to the editor April 8

Law roundup: Passel of puppies impounded by shelter

The animal shelter impounded six great Dane mix puppies after someone called the Kalispell Police Department worried they would get hit by a car after running into the road. Two girls trying ...

Victims of Montana asbestos pollution that killed hundreds take Warren Buffett's railroad to court

LIBBY, Mont. (AP) — Paul Resch remembers playing baseball as a kid on a field constructed from asbestos-tainted vermiculite, mere yards from railroad tracks where trains kicked up clouds of dust as they hauled the contaminated material from a mountaintop mine through the northwestern Montana town of Libby.

New Tupelo Grille owner brings fresh look to popular Whitefish restaurant while leaning on tradition

Ownership recently changed hands and the interior of the Central Avenue restaurant has undergone a remodel, but the Tupelo feel and the menu favorites remain.

Stock market today: Wall Street gains ground following surprisingly strong US jobs report

Stocks posted solid gains on Wall Street as a strong report on employment showed the U.S. economy continues to chug along. The S&P 500 rose 1.1% Friday.

Cherry Growers hold annual meeting April 13

The 86th annual cherry growers’ meeting presented by the Flathead Lake Cherry Growers Association will be held on Saturday, April 13, at the Yellow Bay Community Clubhouse.

Legals for April, 7 2024

A bridge in Bigfork is just as important as Baltimore

For hours after the tragic accident that took down a bridge over the Pabsco River in Baltimore, our nation sat together in sadness for the seven construction workers who lost their lives.

David Mark Johnson, 62

David Mark Johnson, age 62, of Lakeside, passed away in his sleep on March 29, 2024.

Anne Francelle Gentry, 92

Anne Francelle Gentry, 92 of Whitefish, passed away March 28, 2024.

The birds are back: Migrating flocks settle at Freezout

You really can’t miss the birds.

Rain washes out Saturday events

Spring storms put a damper on just about every high school event in the area Saturday, from Libby to Columbia Falls and down to Polson and Mission.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, happenings and trainings

Focus on solutions when discussing homelessness

Kalispell City Council is expected to take a look at some of the challenges surrounding homelessness in the city at an upcoming work session.

Law roundup: Man found passed out in dumpster

An employee opened a dumpster and reportedly found a man passed out inside.

Lester White, 97

Lester Albert Lee White, 97, was born on April 14, 1926, in Whitefish, to Charles and Ella (Kriegel) White.

Tim Slobojan, 83

Dr. Gerald (Tim) Slobojan DVM, 83 of Kalispell, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, April 1, 2024.

Dorothy Loudermilk, 81

When asked what she wanted in her obituary, Dorothy Louise Loudermilk answered, “She came. She left.”

Workers sue to overturn law that exempts Atlantic City casinos from indoor smoking ban

For three years, many Atlantic City casino workers have been trying to get their elected officials to ban smoking in the gambling halls, to no avail. Now they're taking their fight to court.

Burning questions answered

On my recent drives along U.S. 93, I had seen the plumes. Instead of cringing that it was wildfire, I’d smile because it meant someone was cleaning up a pile — a burn pile, that is, and a chore that many yearn to tick off the list.

SB 442 benefits small portion of Montana

The 2023 Legislature ended almost a year ago. However, recently, Judge Mike Menahan issued a decision directing the Montana secretary of state to conduct a veto override poll on SB 442 to determine if the bill will become law.

Another month of robust US job growth points to continued economic strength

America's employers delivered another outpouring of jobs in March, adding a sizzling 303,000 workers and bolstering hopes that the economy can vanquish inflation without succumbing to a recession in the face of high interest rates.

Job fair provides opportunities for job seekers and businesses

The Northwest Montana Job & Opportunity Fair returns to the Flathead County Fairgrounds Trade Center on Thursday, April 11, offering a dynamic platform for both job seekers and businesses to connect and explore potential opportunities.

Evergreen Fire District turns to voters for funding woes

Evergreen Fire District is seeking approval of a levy that would allow the department to bring on new equipment, bolster staffing levels, and give employees more competitive pay, according to Chief Craig Williams.

New Mexico electric vehicle mandates to remain in place as auto dealers fight the new rules

New Mexico's mandate for auto dealers to provide an increasing number of electric vehicles for sale across the state will remain in place pending a legal challenge.

Rensvold perfect, Polson beats Browning

POLSON — Samantha Rensvold threw three perfect innings and Polson downed Browning 15-0 in Northwest A softball Friday, in a game shortened by the mercy rule.

PHOTOS: Whitefish Pond Skim 2024

Scenes from the annual pond skim competition at Whitefish Mountain Resort on Saturday, April 6.

PHOTOS: 58th annual Creston Auction and Country Fair

Scenes from the 58th annual Creston Auction and Country Fair on Saturday, April 6. The event is the largest fundraiser for the Creston Fire Department and has been held since 1966. On Sunday, April 7 the vehicle and equipment sale begins at 11 a.m. The day’s $10 bid tickets go on sale at 9 a.m.

Montana GOP slams proposed primary change as ‘destructive'

CHOTEAU – Election reform advocates said passing two initiatives that would change how primary and general elections are conducted in Montana would reduce extreme political rhetoric and “brutal” primaries – the same afternoon the Montana Republican party disavowed one of the initiatives as “destructive.”

Softball: Pack shuts out Kats in marquee matchup

COLUMBIA FALLS — Friday’s matchup of state softball champions just about had it all: Dynamic pitching, noisy hits and — despite the chill and brief drizzle — much better weather than the Orioles-Pirates game.

Wolfpack thinclads swept CMR Friday

Ethan Anderson swept the hurdles, Aiden Krause and Kai Johnson won two throws each and Glacier decisively swept its track and field dual with visiting Great Falls CMR Friday.

Shelter officials say they welcome work session with Kalispell City Council

Council approved a conditional use permit for the low barrier shelter on North Meridian Road in November 2020, allowing it to establish a permanent facility in an area zoned B-1 neighborhood business.

Developer anticipates wrapping up Parkline Towers project in May 2025

The rapidly rising Parkline Towers apartment complex on U.S. 2 in Kalispell is on track to be completed in May 2025, according to developer Brent Brown.

Whitefish sweeps Bigfork, Ronan in tennis

C-Falls and Dillon split

POLSON — Jack Oehlerich, Walt Siegmund and the doubles tandem of Cole Moses and Aaron Anderson all won twice Friday, helping the Whitefish boys take dual tennis wins from Bigfork and Ronan.

MSU sweeps Cat-Griz track and field dual

BOZEMAN — Three school records and a slew of head-turning performances carried the Montana State track and field teams to a pair of resounding wins over their arch-rival at the Cat-Griz Dual on Friday afternoon at Bobcat Track and Field Complex.

Extended-stay motel shooter given 30 years in state prison

A jury found Steven Justin Hedrick guilty of felony deliberate homicide Jan. 19 after deliberating for about six hours.

Motorist suspected of gunplay given deferred sentence

A man suspected of aiming a handgun at another motorist while stopped at a U.S. 2 intersection in October earned a deferred sentence in Flathead County District Court earlier this year.

Legals for April, 5 2024

Law roundup: Man keeps breaking into future brother-in-law’s vehicle

storyA rundown vehicle had become a sore spot for a man and his future brother-in-law. Having left it parked at his fiancee’s house, the owner had since discovered that her brother, who he described to the Kalispell Police Department as homeless, was constantly breaking into the broken-down vehicle.

Foundation names Middle School Educator of the Year

Taylor Ferda is the recipient of the Kalispell Education Foundation’s 2024 Middle School Educator of the Year award.

Flathead High speech and debate member wins Student of the Year

Flathead High School senior Rachel Ottman received top accolades being named the 2024 Student of the Year for the Montana West District of the National Speech and Debate Association.

Gianforte sending Montana National Guard soldiers to Texas

A Montana National Guard unit is headed to Texas after Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte signed an executive disaster declaration earlier this week for the U.S.-Mexico border.

Temporary Bigfork pedestrian bridge deemed unworkable

The report released Wednesday ruled out seven alternatives that ranged from erecting a suspension bridge over the Swan River, to installing a rental kit bridge or prefabricated steel truss span.

Columbia Falls developer Mick Ruis to buy CFAC site

The Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. has agreed to sell 2,400 acres of land it owns to Columbia Falls developer Mick Ruis.

Good Luck Gallery showcases contemporary art in historic Kalispell space

Good Luck Gallery in downtown Kalispell sits at a bit of a juxtaposition.

Rika Aronson Mogolis, 78

Rika Aronson Mogolis, 78, passed peacefully on March 26, 2024, in her home with Frank, her partner of 35 years by her side.

Story of astronomer explores women’s place in society during 19th Century

When Henrietta Leavitt begins work at the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s, she is not allowed to touch a telescope or express an original idea. Instead, she joins a group of women “computers,” charting the stars for a renowned astronomer who calculates projects in “girl hours” and has no time for the women’s probing theories.

Fish management failures

Last week I drove to my cabin in the Thompson Chain of Lakes, planning to do some spring cabin chores and squeeze in a last ice fishing trip of the season. Wrong!

Letters to the editor April 4

Letters to the editor April 4

Kalispell City Council to take second look at homeless shelter’s permit

Kalispell City Council moved Monday to review the Flathead Warming Center’s conditional use permit at a forthcoming work session.

Where did all the fiscal conservatives go?

In 2022, the people of Montana elected Republican supermajorities to both chambers of the Montana Legislature.

Museum celebrates Central School’s 130th with time capsule

The Northwest Montana History Museum will commemorate Central School’s 130th anniversary with a celebration April 12 where items will be on display that will be sealed in a time capsule.

Wilderness Speaker Series concludes with Artist Wilderness Connection panel

The final installment in the 2024 Wilderness Speaker Series will feature a panel of local artists who have participated in the Artist Wilderness Connection residency program in the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex.

Montana Senate GOP forms select committee on ‘judicial reform’

Montana Senate Republicans are launching a new special select committee following several court decisions that went against their favored outcomes, saying those decisions overstepped the separation of powers and alleging several courts violated the state Constitution in the same process.

What is the right to know, and why should you care?

Did you know that you have a constitutional right to know?

Phillips Gallery hosts Helena artist Tom Mostad

Phillips Gallery is hosting a painting demonstration and opening reception for an exhibit titled Going Wild with Helena-based artist Tom Mostad on April 5.

Law roundup: People judged to have too much stuff

Someone complained that people sitting at a picnic table at a public park had an “excessive” amount of belongings and items were “overflowing” from the table onto the ground.

Legals for April, 4 2024

Woman suspected of biting, attacking men with hammer facing charges

A 41-year-old woman accused of attacking several men with a hammer and biting one of them during a confrontation in Kalispell last June is facing multiple charges in Flathead County District Court.

We need to know avalanches inside and out

There’s a fine line between learning from the mistakes of others and shaming people for their ignorance.

John Lithgow performs at Wachholz Center April 8

Get ready for a month packed with entertainment and inspiration at the Wachholz College Center. Kicking off the month on April 8, the Wachholz College Center’s Speaker Series presents An Evening with John Lithgow.

Dam operators keeping more water in Flathead Lake this spring

The operators of the Séliš Ksanka QÍispé Dam got the go-ahead in March to keep more water in Flathead Lake this spring in an effort to avoid a repeat of last summer’s low water levels.

Tuesday Tennis: Columbia Falls sweeps Ronan

COLUMBIA FALLS — Lexi Olberholtzer and the duo of Alanis Petersen and Kristina Tamburelli picked up 6-0, 6-0 victories as Columbia Falls girls swept Ronan Tuesday in Northwest A girls tennis.

Evan Epperly picked to lead Glacier hoops

Glacier High School announced its pick for the next boys basketball coach Tuesday, and it is former player Evan Epperly, who has been back coaching with the Wolfpack the past two seasons.

Wolf kills a calf in Colorado, the first confirmed kill after the predator's reintroduction

DENVER (AP) — A wolf has killed a calf in Colorado, wildlife officials said Wednesday, confirming the first livestock kill after 10 of the predators were controversially reintroduced in December to the aggrievement of the state's rural residents.

Strongest earthquake in 25 years rocks Taiwan, killing 9 people and stranding 70 workers in quarries

HUALIEN, Taiwan (AP) — The strongest earthquake in a quarter-century rocked Taiwan during the morning rush hour Wednesday, killing nine people, stranding dozens of workers at quarries and sending some residents scrambling out the windows of damaged buildings.

Annual Creston Auction returns this weekend

The auction, which runs April 6-7, is the largest fundraiser for the Creston Fire Department and has been held since 1966.

Bravettes down Libby 13-3 in softball

LIBBY — Kaidyn Lake had four hits, including a home run, and Lacie Franklin also homered Tuesday as the Flathead Bravettes beat the Libby Loggers 13-3 in non-conference softball.

Baseball: Eureka spoils Bigfork’s home opener, 13-0

EVERGREEN — A pair of six-run innings by Eureka — the second rally helped along by four errors — spoiled the Bigfork Vikings’ “home opener” Tuesday, which ended in a 13-0 Lions victory at ABS Field.

Braves, Bravettes shine in opening dual

MISSOULA — Ben Bliven took the victory in the 100 meters with a time of 10.98 seconds and the 200 meters in 22.26 seconds to highlight Flathead’s efforts at a season-opening track dual against Missoula Big Sky Tuesday.

Pioneers enter ski museum hall of fame

The Class of 2024 inductees include Sverre Askevold, Chuck Creon, Ole Dalen and Lyle Rutherford.

Law roundup: Bulk shopper secretive about membership

A customer would reportedly murder before revealing their membership card, refusing to show it to an employee multiple times, saying, “If they ask again, they will kill them.” The shopper was so secretive about their bulk shopping credentials ...

Legals for April, 3 2024

Motorist accused of killing ex-wife facing new charges

Kenneth James Floyd, 38, who pleaded not guilty in November to negligent homicide in Flathead County District Court for the June 18 death of Kimberly Gilham, now faces additional felony counts of leaving the scene of a vehicle accident involving serious bodily injury or death and tampering with physical evidence.

Glacier National Park officials detail coming construction work

Glacier National Park officials expect construction on the Going-to-the-Sun Road and the Upper McDonald Creek Bridge to end this year while other projects, like water infrastructure and road improvements in the Swiftcurrent developed area, are just getting going.

PHOTOS: Eureka tops Bigfork at ABS Park

The Eureka Lions topped the Bigfork Vikings 13-0 in a high school baseball matchup at ABS Park in Evergreen on Tuesday, April 2.

Freight railroads must keep 2-person crews, according to new federal rule 2 years in the making

Major freight railroads will have to maintain two-person crews on most routes under a new federal rule that was finalized Tuesday in a milestone in organized labor's long fight to preserve the practice.

Lawsuit seeks to force ban on menthol cigarettes after months of delays by Biden administration

WASHINGTON (AP) — Anti-smoking groups sued the U.S. government Tuesday over a long-awaited ban on menthol cigarettes, which has been idling at the White House for months.

Biden and Xi discuss Taiwan, AI and fentanyl in a push to return to regular leader talks

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed Taiwan, artificial intelligence and security issues Tuesday in a call meant to demonstrate a return to regular leader-to-leader dialogue between the two powers.

First vessel uses alternate channel to bypass wreckage at the Baltimore bridge collapse site

BALTIMORE (AP) — A tugboat pushing a fuel barge was the first vessel to use an alternate channel to bypass the wreckage of Baltimore's collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge, which had blocked traffic along the vital port's main shipping channel.

Kalispell’s re-do election scheduled for May 7

The re-do election for two Kalispell city council seats is scheduled for May 7.

Montana Supreme Court rewrites abortion ballot language

The Montana Supreme Court released its revised ballot language on Monday to describe a constitutional abortion rights amendment that voters may consider this fall, rejecting a version drafted last week by Attorney General Austin Knudsen.

BRIEFS: Glacier Gymnastics excels at state meet

HELENA — Glacier Gymnastics had an excellent showing at the Montana Women’s State Championships March 21-24 at the Helena Athletic Club, taking first in one division and second in another.

Law roundup: Busybody wants the scoop before bedtime

A busybody allegedly called the Kalispell Police Department because someone downstairs slammed their door and wanted to know what was going on before going to bed.

Billings Hotel Senior Classic All-Stars

2024 Senior Classic All-Stars First Team: Jace Hill, Columbia Falls; Maurice Redhorn III, Browning; Tommy Running Rabbit, Browning.

Carroll's Pickens is NAIA Player of Year

HELENA — Not only is Jamie Pickens the first Carroll College player to be first-team All-America in back-to-back seasons, on Monday she was announced as the 2024 NAIA National Women’s Player of the Year.

County board considers Evergreen RV park, event venue near Whitefish

A new RV park in Evergreen and a property wanting to host large events southwest of Whitefish have both applied for approval with Flathead County.

James "Jim" Hanson, 85

James "Jim" Hanson, 85, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away on March 26, 2024, in Boise, Idaho.

Letters to the editor April 2

Letters to the editor April 2

Retiring pastor recalls journey leading Kalispell’s First Presbyterian Church

After serving as pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Kalispell for 25 years, Glenn Burfeind is retiring.

Flathead leaders lobby for election reform ballot initiatives

Montanans could see two constitutional amendments on the November ballot, twin initiatives that supporters argue will improve election integrity and empower voters.

Flathead County Library trustees open search for a new logo to the public

Have an idea for the new Flathead County Library logo? Library board trustees are taking submissions and suggestions on designs leading up to their next board in April.

Legals for April, 2 2024

Letters to the editor April 1

Letters to the editor April 1

Fishing his way from Montana to Mongolia

Throughout his early life, Thane Melton went fishing with his family quite often across the state. It was a hobby that they all shared, from Michigan to Montana.

Legals for April, 1 2024

Mary Jane Church, 81

Mary Jane (Hartman) Church, 81, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2024, in Mesa, Arizona, with her daughters by her side.

Law roundup: Neighbor keeps barking up the wrong tree

A resident was tired of a neighbor’s harassment over their outdoor dog when she reportedly kept turning her in to animal control — about six or seven times — without any findings.

Whitefish looks at Karrow Ave. construction contract

Whitefish City Council on Monday is set to approve a $2.39 million construction contract for the reconstruction of a section of Karrow Avenue.