Ellington

Powell: Federal Reserve is on track to cut rates, though not likely for months

WASHINGTON (AP) — Interest rate cuts are coming. Just not yet.

State orders Bridge Street Bridge in Bigfork closed

Bigfork residents will have to find a new way to navigate downtown for the foreseeable future after the Montana Department of Transportation closed the Bridge Street Bridge due to structural concerns Wednesday.

Iran threatens to respond to any US strikes as Biden weighs how to react to a base attack in Jordan

JERUSALEM (AP) — Iran threatened Wednesday to "decisively respond" to any U.S. attack on the Islamic Republic following President Joe Biden's linking of Tehran to the killing of three U.S. soldiers at a military base in Jordan.

Backcountry Film Festival in Whitefish Feb. 6

The 19th annual Backcountry Film Festival is headed to Whitefish on Tuesday, Feb. 6, at Whitefish Theatre Company. All proceeds will benefit Wild Montana’s Flathead-Kootenai Chapter.

Spectacle of center ring comes to Whitefish Winter Carnival this weekend

Be on the lookout for the usual cast of characters like penguins and yetis, but who knows if acrobats, a fire-eater and elephants join in the fun this year when the Grand Parade with its circus theme makes its way through downtown.

Montana 35 section closed Feb. 1 for tree removal

The tree removal requiring the closure of Montana 35, previously scheduled for Jan. 29, has been rescheduled to Thursday, Feb. 1.

Columbia Falls takes Class A state title after undefeated season

Columbia Falls High School capped another undefeated season as the 2024 state champions on home turf.

Legals for January, 31 2024

Owners of Lakeside alpine coaster seek permission for public water supply well

The owners of the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster are seeking state permission to turn a private well at the Lakeside attraction into a public supply well.

John Francis Hammett, 96

John Francis Hammett, consummate gentleman, family man, unassuming champion of community service, and advocate for those less fortunate than he, passed away peacefully on Jan. 27, 2024, in his own bed surrounded by his family.

State plans resurfacing project for Kalispell Bypass

The Montana Department of Transportation will undertake a large road improvement project to resurface about four miles of U.S. 93 Alternate, commonly known as the Kalispell Bypass.

Glen Henderson, 90

Glen F. Henderson, 90, born on Nov. 5, 1933, passed peacefully on Jan. 25, 2024.

Deputies arrest armed suspect after he allegedly threatened his wife

A man described in court documents as possibly suffering from a mental health crisis is behind bars after authorities arrested him with multiple loaded firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, on U.S. 2 in Kalispell on Saturday.

Filing window opens for school board trustee candidates

School elections are coming up and people wishing to serve on a school board have until March 28 to file paperwork to appear on the ballot.

Wildkats overpower Whitefish girls

COLUMBIA FALLS — Onnika Lawrence had nine points and 10 rebounds for Columbia Falls, and the Wildkats pulled away to beat Northwest A girls basketball rival 55-14 Tuesday.

Boys Hoops: Vikings roll past Pirates

Eureka beats Troy boys

POLSON — Eli Thorness scored 19 points, 10 coming in the second quarter while Bigfork opened up a big lead on the way to a 61-41 Northwest A boys basketball win Tuesday over Polson.

FVCC hosts community lectures

Flathead Valley Community College’s Continuing Education Center is hosting six community lectures from Thursday, Feb. 22 to Tuesday, April 9 in the Arts & Technology Building on campus in Kalispell.

Law roundup: Woman wants to put snowball bandits on ice

A woman out walking her dog called the Kalispell Police Department claiming kids were throwing snowballs at her and she was hit in the head by an ice chunk.

LuciAnn Manz, 85

LuciAnn Manz, 85 of Seeley Lake, Montana, passed away on Jan. 21, 2024, at Continental Care and Rehabilitation, Butte, Montana of natural causes.

Cat-Dog Hoops: Wildcats rally past Bulldogs

COLUMBIA FALLS — Cody Schweikert scored 15 of his game-high 23 points in the second half, and Columbia Falls tightened down on defense to score a 50-38 boys basketball win over Whitefish Tuesday.

Girls Roundup: Gunlock girls pace Valkyries

BIGFORK — Bigfork’s Braeden and Paeten Gunlock split six 3-pointers and combined for 46 points Tuesday, as the Valkyries thumped Northwest A girls basketball foe Polson 63-21.

Rosendale tours Montana with Gaetz ahead of decision on political future

Though he did not outright commit to it, Congressman Matt Rosendale’s “Truth Tour” with Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz across Montana over the weekend did little to quiet the notion that the eastern Montana Republican will decide to face off in a primary for the U.S. Senate seat with Tim Sheehy this year.

Biden says he's decided on response to killing of 3 US troops, plans to attend dignified transfer

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Tuesday indicated he had decided how to respond after the killing of three American service members Sunday in a drone attack in Jordan that his administration has pinned on Iran-backed militia groups, saying he does not want to expand the war in the Middle East but demurring on specifics.

The US hasn't seen syphilis numbers this high since 1950. Other STD rates are down or flat

NEW YORK (AP) — The U.S. syphilis epidemic isn't abating, with the rate of infectious cases rising 9% in 2022, according to a new federal government report on sexually transmitted diseases in adults.

Trump stays on Illinois' ballot as election board declines to ban him over insurrection amendment

CHICAGO (AP) — Illinois' election board on Tuesday kept former President Donald Trump on the state's primary ballot, a week before the U.S. Supreme Court hears arguments on whether the Republican's role in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol disqualifies him from the presidency.

Letters to the editor Jan. 30

Letters to the editor Jan. 30

Law roundup: Man bodychecked by ex

A man allegedly got off a plane and was greeted with a body check from his ex.

State title a ‘Cinderella win’ for Flathead High School speech and debate

The tenacity of this year’s Flathead High School speech and debate team paid off with a state title, beating defending champ, Bozeman.

Constitutional abortion backers file lawsuit to get on November’s ballot

Backers of a constitutional initiative to legally protect abortion access have petitioned the Montana Supreme Court to allow their proposal on the 2024 ballot after Montana’s attorney general labeled the measure “legally insufficient.”

Gerald Reckin, 94

Gerald "Jerry" Reckin, 94, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Jan. 20, 2024, in Kalispell, Montana.

Legals for January, 30 2024

Restart lake trout suppression program

In his “failed fishery management” commentary a couple of weeks ago, columnist Warren Illi’s long-held personal bias toward fish of the Midwest was showing once again.

Flathead Electric raises alarm over proposal to breach lower Snake River dams

The Flathead Valley, heavily reliant on hydropower, will face an energy crisis if an agreement to remove four dams on the lower Snake River moves forward, according to officials with Flathead Electric Cooperative.

Avalanche warning issued amid 'January thaw'

Dangerous backcountry avalanche conditions exist across Northwest Montana due to recent mountain rainfall and unseasonably warm temperatures.

State signals intent to sue over federal wolverine protections

Montana notified the federal government Friday that it plans to file a lawsuit over the federal wildlife service’s November decision to designate wolverines as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.

Executive director would like to see United Way expand its services

A single mom who raised seven children while working as a nursing assistant, Jodie Cross knows what it's like to live on a tight budget. She also knows what it’s like to need a little help.

FVCC art faculty featured in exhibition

The gallery inside the Wachholz College Center on the campus of FVCC is spotlighting artists and the corresponding subjects they teach as part of the display.

Legals for January, 29 2024

Letters to the editor Jan. 29

Letters to the editor Jan. 29

Law roundup: Birthday meth leads to entanglement

A man reportedly told the Kalispell Police Department that a woman was angry at him for inviting her over for her birthday but didn’t have any meth and they got into an argument where she punched and kicked him, which she denied.

Fortine wood bank volunteers help keep neighbors warm

In an open field just past Grave Creek Road in Fortine, on a winter Saturday volunteers are loading wood into trucks, clearing snow off of wood piles and splitting lumber into burnable logs.

New bike shop opens in downtown Columbia Falls

“I had a shop on my property and I just started telling some friends that I was working on bikes and it started slowly that way,” he said.

Wolfpack wrestlers drop final duals before divisionals

BUTTE — Glacier’s wrestling teams fell short in their final duals before divisionals, but there were some bright spots for the Wolfpack in the Mining City.

Glenn Miller, 81

Glenn W. Miller, 81 of Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Dec. 20, 2023, with Linda, his wife of 39 years, by his side.

China doubles down on moves to mend its economy and fend off a financial crisis

China's leaders have launched a barrage of new policies to prop up languishing financial markets and rekindle growth in the world's second-largest economy.

Carol S. Christensen, 82

Carol S. Christensen, 82. Our wife, sister, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother left us Jan. 23, 2024, for her heavenly home.

Law roundup: Ex-employee can’t get over termination

A store owner called the Kalispell Police Department for advice about an ex-employee, who reportedly hadn’t moved on from being fired a year ago, when he began calling the store to harass employees.

Liquefied Natural Gas: What to know about LNG and Biden's decision to delay gas export proposals

The Biden administration said Friday it is delaying consideration of new natural gas export terminals in the United States, even as gas shipments to Europe and Asia have soared since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Theodore S. Kauffman, 52

Theodore "Ted" S. Kauffman, 52, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Jan. 22, 2024, at his home in Kalispell, after a long, hard battle with cancer.

Kalispell boutique blends unique selections for all ages

Melanie Wyckoff loves to spend time in toy stores. Even when her children are ready to leave, she wants to stay.

Wall Street closes its 12th winning week in the last 13 with a mixed finish

Wall Street closed its latest winning week with a mixed finish, as drops for technology stocks dragged on the market.

Robert Redinger, 96

Robert J. "Bob" Redinger, 96, left this earth to be with his Creator on Jan. 17, 2024.

Nancy Jean Zimmerman, 84

Nancy Zimmerman, 84, passed away at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024.

FVCC Senior Institute session begins

Flathead Valley Community College’s Senior Institute returns for its 30th year of credit class offerings to community members 65 and up.

Glacier girls fall on road to Sentinel

MISSOULA — Emily McElmurry scored 17 points including two 3-pointers and Missoula Sentinel defeated Glacier 51-43 in Western AA girls basketball on Saturday.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Whitefish Community Foundation scholarships open Feb. 1

Whitefish Community Foundation is offering multiple scholarship opportunities for students who will be enrolling in college this fall.

Patty Sue Rieke, 79

Patty Sue Rieke, 79, passed away Jan. 18, 2024, at the Buffalo Hill Retreat.

Montana needs reliable energy

Last week the big news was the record setting minus 22 degrees. Many used the event for cliché laden debates on “climate change.”

Successful red tape relief means a brighter future

More than 1000 days have passed since Gov. Greg Gianforte issued his very first executive order creating the Red Tape Relief Initiative with a mandate to conduct a top-to-bottom review of all regulations and identify unnecessary and overburdensome red tape to repeal.

Time to hold NorthWestern, elected officials accountable

Two notable events just occurred in Montana: the Public Service Commission’s blessing of NorthWestern Corporation’s 28% rate hike; and extreme cold.

Hellgate's hot start downs Braves

Missoula Hellgate hit Flathead’s floor firing Saturday, burying four 3-pointers in a 26-point first quarter that carried the Knights to a 70-49 Western AA boys basketball win.

Myrna Ethel Warkins, 84

Myrna Ethel Warkins, 84, beloved wife, mother, and artist, passed away on Jan. 23, 2024, in Kalispell.

Kathleen Maya Crow, 65

Kathleen Maya Crow, 65, passed away at Logan Health Medical Center on Jan. 16, 2024, with her partner and her brother at her side.

Sharp shooter captured a town

In these weather-bound days I hole up and read for hours. I finished a book about Lucie Duff Gordon, a London intellectual and translator who fled to Egypt in the mid-1800s to save her health and fell in love with life in Luxor.

Knights pull away on Bravettes

MISSOULA — Missoula Hellgate’s 1-2 punch of Chloe Larson and Elly Reed combined for 32 points, leading the Knights past Flathead 45-37 in Western AA girls basketball Saturday.

Memorial rodeo planned for Columbia Falls man who died tending to horses during blizzard

Cody Sorenson and Dakota Pearle went into the Bob Marshall Wilderness on a September elk hunt. The trip went south almost immediately. They got a late start and it was pouring rain. Still, they packed up Sorenson’s blind Spotted Leopard Appaloosa horse Outlaw and headed to Basin in the heart of the Bob Marshall.

Wade, Valkyries cruise through Columbia Falls

COLUMBIA FALLS — Keni Wade hit three 3-pointers and scored 15 points, and first-place Bigfork ruled the boards in a 51-34 Northwest A girls basketball victory on Saturday.

Barnes & Noble opens new Kalispell store on Jan. 31

A ribbon-cutting ceremony takes place at 9 a.m. at the store in the Mountain View Plaza on U.S. 93. The store next to Famous Footwear is in the building formerly occupied by Pier 1.

A valuable resource for Flathead newbies

During Montana’s peak covid-induced migration frenzy, a rumor circulated that some 30,000 new residents had moved to the Flathead Valley seemingly overnight.

3 by Ronan's Edmo beats beats buzzer, Libby

RONAN — Tayen Edmo scored six points for Ronan Saturday and all of them were big: He hit back-to-back 3-pointers to lift the Chiefs over Libby 61-58 in Northwest A boys basketball.

Small farmers hit by extreme weather could get assistance from proposed insurance program

Since catastrophic flooding hit Vermont in July and waterlogged crops, some farmers are trying to figure out how to get to the next season.

Bench, balance key Wolfpack boys

Easton Kauffman scored 12 points, including three 3-pointers, and Glacier used its balance and depth to defeat Missoula Sentinel 53-44 in Western AA boys basketball Saturday.

Legals for January, 28 2024

Douglas Smith, 85

Douglas C. Smith, 85, passed away on Jan. 16, 2024, at Prestige Memory Care in Kalispell.

Lily Gladstone, first Native American actress nominee, travels to Osage country to honor Oscar nod

Lily Gladstone knew she wanted to be somewhere special when the Oscar news came. And that somewhere was not home, watching on TV, but in Oklahoma with the Osage community, where the real-life version of her character lived and where Martin Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon" is centered.

Montana exceeds national averages for median home prices

Finding a place to live in Montana is still out of reach for many Montana residents, exceeding national averages for home prices and growing 105% since 2017, according to a Montana Department of Commerce data presented Wednesday.

Native American communities have the highest suicide rates, yet interventions are scarce

Amanda MorningStar has watched her children struggle with mental health issues, including suicidal thoughts. She often wonders why.

Brawlers end dual season 23-0

Senior Day went swimmingly for the Flathead Brave Brawlers, who completed a 23-0 dual season by overpowering Helena High and Helena Capital Friday.

Wolfpack boys go 2-0 on Senior Day

The Glacier Wolfpack racked up the pins early and late Friday afternoon, taking duals from Helena Capital and Helena High on Senior Day for the wrestling program.

Resident-owned community poised to hook into Kalispell's water and sewer

A resident-owned manufactured home community in Kalispell is poised to begin building water and sewer connections to the city after securing $2.15 million in funding for the undertaking.

Eureka boys cruise against Superior

EUREKA — Braden Casazza scored 13 points, Parker Bates added 11 including three 3-pointers and Eureka defeated Superior 57-29 in District 7B boys basketball Friday.

Eureka girls shut down Superior

EUREKA — Dylan Sharp scored 20 points, including two 3-pointers and Eureka defeated Superior in district 7B girls basketball on Friday.

Flathead County increases collection of school property tax mills

Flathead County property owners will soon see increased tax bills in their mailboxes.

Recovery Centers of Montana will remain open after state inspections

A company that operates 86 treatment beds between two addiction treatment centers in Northwest Montana will stay open following state investigations into poor admissions practices, inadequate documentation of treatment plans and a failure to appropriately report serious incidents.

Hot shooting Hellgate boys down Pack

MISSOULA — Easton Sant scored 22 points, Zane Gillhouse added 14 and Missoula Hellgate defeated Glacier 60-39 in Western AA boys basketball Thursday.

ImagineIF Board of Trustees change to collection development policy draws criticism

The ImagineIF Libraries Board of Trustees amended its collections policy regarding potentially obscene materials Thursday despite pleas from the public and employees to leave it as is.

Aging Columbia Falls high school needs a new roof over classrooms

The Columbia Falls School District 6 Board recently voted to bring an emergency bond measure to fix the failing roof at the high school.

Lawsuit challenges education bill for students with disabilities as unconstitutional

A bill proposed to help children with disabilities actually represents a “staggering” loss of funding to public schools in the form of a “blank check,” would be a hit to rural districts, and unconstitutionally routes state money to private institutions “at the discretion of private individuals,” according to a lawsuit filed Tuesday.

Wildcats hand Ronan first Northwest A loss

COLUMBIA FALLS — Cody Schweikert poured in 28 points, and Columbia Falls held Ronan scoreless in the first quarter of a 47-29 boys basketball win Thursday, the Chiefs’ first conference loss.

Law roundup: Woman threatens man with jail over accident

A dispute sparked by a fender-bender left a man worried he had become the target of extortionists.

Legals for January, 26 2024

Boys Wrestling Rankings Jan. 25

Class A 205 — 1, Jace DeShazer, Libby; 2, Cole Dalke, Ronan; 3,Seth Meyer, Lockwood; 4, Jack Pallett, Fergus; 5, Thor Fulgham, Sidney; 6, Nate Goodluck, Hardin.

Kalispell Public Schools trustee board narrows superintendent search

The Kalispell Public Schools board of trustees narrowed applicants for its superintendent position to four finalists they want to interview the week of Feb. 5.

Poor third quarter downs Braves against Sentinel

MISSOULA — Grady Walker scored 17 points and Kade McDonough added 16, including five 3-pointers and Missoula Sentinel defeated Flathead 50-39 in Western AA basketball Thursday.

Libby Legend

Jace DeShazer looks to pin down a third state title

“The Man. The Myth. The Legend,” these are the words used by Libby wrestling coach Dean Thompson when describing senior Jace DeShazer.

Forest Service extends public comment on outfitter permits

After some feedback, the U.S. Forest Service has extended the deadline to comment on renewing the outfitter and guide permits for the next 10 years until Feb. 16.

Knights put away Glacier girls in fourth quarter

Missoula Hellgate’s Elly Reed scored 13 points, including a 3-pointer as the Knights pulled away in the fourth quarter to down Glacier 53-45 in a Western AA girls basketball game Thursday at the Wolf Den.

Kats' coach Cary Finberg to step down after season

COLUMBIA FALLS — Come December things will look different at the Columbia Falls High School gym.

Girls hoops: Wildkats rout Maidens

COLUMBIA FALLS — Ellie Stutsman scored 12 points off the bench, six coming in Columbia Falls’ second-quarter surge that carried the Wildkats over Ronan 60-17 in Northwest A girls basketball Thursday.

Whitefish City Council hears proposed changes to Depot Park Townhomes project

At a recent work session, Whitefish City Council heard from the Whitefish Housing Authority and the city’s housing planner, Luke Sponable, about potential changes to the Depot Park Townhomes project.

Converse’s five 3’s not enough, Bravettes fall to Sentinel

Emily McElmurry scored 23 points, including 10 in the third quarter as Missoula Sentinel defeated Flathead 58-51 in Western AA girls basketball Thursday at the Flathead gym.

Hauck signs 3-year deal with Griz

MISSOULA — When you have an excellent final year of your contract, chances are you’ll get a new one — and Bobby Hauck got his, agreeing to a three-year deal to remain the Montana Grizzlies football coach.

Montana man convicted of killing eagles is sentenced to 3 years in prison for related gun violations

BILLINGS (AP) — A Montana felon previously convicted of killing eagles to sell their parts on the black market was sentenced to three years in federal prison on Wednesday for related gun violations.

Jilted girlfriend fired gun in ex’s home, court docs say

Irate after getting dumped, a Kalispell woman allegedly fired a handgun inside a Fifth Avenue East North home earlier this month.

Legals for January, 25 2024

Los Lobos to rock the Wachholz

The legendary Los Lobos comes to Kalispell on their 50th-anniversary tour July 26, with tickets on sale now.

Bigfork Playhouse Children's Theatre presents ‘Guys and Dolls, Jr.’

The stage is set, the lights are ready to shine, and the talented young actors of Bigfork Playhouse Children's Theatre are gearing up to bring a spectacular performance of "Guys and Dolls, Jr."

Met Opera Live in HD presents a modern take on ‘Carmen’

A reimagined staging of Georges Bizet’s classic, “Carmen,” will be broadcast Jan. 27 in at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish as part of the Metropolitan Opera Live in HD program.

Justice of the Peace Paul Sullivan files for Flathead County District Court judge seat

Justice of the Peace Paul Sullivan launched his campaign for the position of Flathead County District Court judge earlier this month.

UM students keep traditions alive ahead of Foresters’ Ball

Kidnapping a mounted moose head comes with challenges. Just ask the students in the University of Montana’s Alexander Blewett III School of Law.

Fishing for muskie

What’s probably the rarest game fish in Northwest Montana? I’ll bet that 99% of local fishermen can’t answer that question correctly.

Documentary explores human’s coexistence with grizzly bears

The Montana Chapter of the Sierra Club is hosting “The Return of the Grizzly” film screening on Jan. 29 at 6 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

House Speaker Matt Regier has Republican challenger for Senate seat

Montana House Speaker Matt Regier will face off with Kalispell businessman Marquis Laude in a Republican primary campaign for the Flathead Valley’s open Senate District 5 seat.

Democrat Busse outlines policy priorities in campaign for Montana governor

Ryan Busse, the Kalispell Democrat running for governor this year in Montana, made a series of promises Tuesday about how he would conduct himself in office and the policies he would like to implement should he win the race, including being essentially the opposite of his likely opponent in November, Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte.

Law roundup: Drunk men can't be runnin’ up that hill

Two men were reportedly too drunk to make it up a hill and laid down in someone’s yard. The resident discovered the drunk men and called the Kalispell Police Department to move them along. However ...

FVCC Theatre Department brings one-act comedies to the stage

Flathead Valley Community College's Theatre Department presents an evening of comedic one-act plays: “The Audition” by Matt Thompson and “The Actor's Nightmare” by Christopher Durang.

Energy gap can be bridged

The experts tell us an energy gap looms. Fossil fuels are phasing out, and solar and wind power can’t produce enough electricity to meet the demand in coming decades.

Singer-songwriter Christiane relies on nature for her creative process

Christiane Hinterman has been singing and writing songs for as long as she can remember but has rarely shared her art with an audience. It’s something that’s changing as she begins to share more of her music and how she engages with the creative process.

Letters to the editor Jan. 25

Letters to the editor Jan. 25

Celebrate International Guitar Night at the Wachholz

Four artists from Italy, Vietnam, Brazil and Australia have been brought together for the 24th annual International Guitar Night.

Ronan tips Whitefish, says perfect in NW-A

Polson, Bigfork post wins

RONAN — Kelby Finley scored 17 points for Ronan, and the Chiefs used a big third quarter to take down Whitefish 50-39 and stay unbeaten in Northwest A boys basketball games Tuesday.

Valkyries hand Browning first league loss

Polson girls hold off Libby

BIGFORK — Bigfork’s Ava Davey scored 10 of her 15 points in a first-quarter surge that carried the Valkyries past Browning 59-30 in a Northwest A girls basketball matchup Tuesday.

Libby City Council backs effort to redevelop historic high school building

Libby City Council agreed last week to endorse an effort by developers to secure a grant to restore and convert the old high school into a an apartment building with community space.

Glacier outduels Hellgate

Glacier and Missoula Hellgate squared off in a dual meet Tuesday at Glacier High with the Wolfpack outscoring the Knights 51-15 for the win.

Tranel, Zinke teams spar on congressional campaign trail

Democrat Monica Tranel knocked her opponent, U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, during a stop in Kalispell earlier this month for what she described as his lack of presence on the campaign trail.

Ronan girls complete comeback against Whitefish

Maddy Illig scored 15 points, including eight in the fourth quarter as Ronan picked up a comeback win over Whitefish in Northwestern A girls basketball.

Accused thief given deferred prosecution agreement

A 24-year-old accused of stealing a vehicle from a Kalispell repair shop in 2022 and later breaking into an Evergreen business saw the charges against him dismissed this month.

Brave Brawlers down Hellgate

Flathead continued their strong run of success in dual-meets with a 71-3 win over Missoula Hellgate at Flathead High Tuesday.

Legals for January, 24 2024

Maxine Arnold, 73

Forever loved, Maxine Joy Arnold passed away peacefully on Dec. 20, 2023, joining her parents and friends on the other side. She lived a life of integrity, generosity, and loyalty that was undeniably inspiring.

Bravettes fall on road to Butte

BUTTE — Cadence Graham knocked down four 3-pointers and scored a game-high 25 points for Butte as they defeated Flathead 57-51 in Western AA girls basketball.

Braves comeback bid falls short against Butte

Hudson Luedtke scored 13 points,including a perfect 5-5 from the foul line as Butte held off Flathead’s late comeback attempt to win 63-54 in Western AA boys basketball.

Troy man charged in 2020 grizzly killing

A Troy man accused of killing a collared grizzly bear on his property over bait more than three years ago has agreed to plead guilty to charges related to the alleged incident.

Employers sought for job and opportunity fair

The fair is made possible through a partnership between Flathead Valley Community College, Kalispell School District 5, Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, Workforce Flathead, Job Service Kalispell and the Daily Inter Lake.

Law roundup: 911 caller instructed on how to look up phone numbers

A Kalispell man called 911 complaining about six or eight people with megaphones pointed toward the golf course who were proselytizing about Jesus. Dispatch warned the caller...

Roundup for Safety awards funds to support Libby safety projects

Flathead Electric Cooperative’s Roundup for Safety Board on Jan. 11 awarded $12,705 in grant funds supporting two Libby community safety projects.

Eileen Lobello, 91

Eileen peacefully passed away Jan. 12, at her home in Kalispell. She was born in Great Bardfield, Essex, England, Nov. 6, 1932, to William and Ethel Chatters.

Bobcats hire former Utah State star Chuckie Keeton as QB coach

BOZEMAN — Chuckie Keeton, an all-conference quarterback at Utah State with wide-ranging experience after his playing career, has been tabbed to mentor Bobcat quarterbacks, MSU head coach Brent Vigen announced.

Montana 35 section closed Jan. 29 for tree removal

Flathead Electric Cooperative, the Montana Department of Transportation and the U.S. Forest Service are working together to remove the tree located near Fishing Rock Lane.

Ralph Sievers, 78

Ralph Sievers, 78, May 2, 1945 - January 11, 2024.

Glacier National Park superintendent talks visitor management, shuttle buses at 'state of the park' address

Glacier National Park Superintendent Dave Roemer shared findings from last season’s approach to visitor use management during a presentation at the Northwest Montana History Museum on Monday.

Kalispell City Council digs into solid waste master plan effort

Kalispell City Council began digging through the municipality’s trash disposal services Monday as part of an ongoing effort to develop a solid waste master plan.

Glacier National Park advance vehicle reservations available Jan. 25

Advance vehicle reservation tickets for Glacier National Park become available Jan. 25 at 8 a.m. Mountain Time, officials said Tuesday.

A pastor and a small Ohio city tussle over the legality of his 24/7 homeless ministry

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — A Christian church in Ohio filed a federal lawsuit this week after its pastor was charged with violating city ordinances when he opened up the sanctuary around the clock for homeless people and others to find shelter.

Sports briefs: Ex-Griz McDowell commits to Temple

Clifton McDowell, the Montana Grizzlies’ quarterback who entered the NCAA transfer portal shortly after leading them to the FCS title game, announced Monday he has committed to Temple.

Legals for January, 23 2024

Montana’s effort to expand religious exemptions to vaccines prompts political standoff

Montana lawmakers are in a standoff with the state’s health department over a package of sweeping changes to child care licensing rules that includes a disputed provision to allow religious exemptions to routine vaccinations for children and workers.

Robert Ford’s double-double against his former team leads Montana State over Idaho State

BOZEMAN — Montana State guard Robert Ford had himself a night against his former squad the Idaho State Bengals in the Bobcats’ 77-70 home win Monday.

Board of Public Education approves first wave of Montana charter schools

Montana’s Board of Public Education unanimously approved applications for 19 new charter schools across the state Friday, giving the 11 public school districts that submitted them the green light to proceed with standing up the new institutions.

Felon suspected in Kila machete attack

A Kila man convicted of criminal endangerment in 2022 is back in county jail after allegedly attacking another man with a machete last week.

Bengals down Bobcat women in Pocatello

POCATELLO, Idaho — Kacey Spink had 15 points, Tasia Jordan had a 14 point 10 rebound double-double and Idaho State beat Montana State 62-53 Monday night in Big Sky conference play.

Whitefish nonprofit enters ongoing lawsuit over housing bills

A Whitefish nonprofit organization that advocates for affordable housing has joined a lawsuit over four new housing laws being challenged in district court.

Cold snap fuels Montana’s coal power debate

The record-breaking cold snap Montana saw this month brought days of below-zero temperatures across the state — and with them what major Montana utility NorthWestern Energy said was record-high electric demand from its customers.

Kalispell school board to review applications for superintendent

Kalispell Public Schools board of trustees will review seven applications submitted for the superintendent position in selecting finalists to interview during its Tuesday, Jan. 23 meeting.

Letters to the editor Jan. 23

Letters to the editor Jan. 23

Law roundup: Ex-girlfriend takes the money and runs

A man reportedly gave an ex-girlfriend $1,100 to buy a truck she was supposed to deliver to a location but instead “ghosted” him. He told the Columbia Falls Police Department that he heard she ran the same scheme on others.

Columbia Falls speech and debate win divisionals

The Columbia Falls High School speech and debate team brought home the hardware from Stevensville as the Class A Western Divisional tournament.

Cody Hunter Sorenson, 24

Cody Hunter Sorenson, 24, a native of Columbia Falls, was born on a beautiful Monday, the 29th of March, 1999.

Konig, Lady Griz rout Weber State

OGDEN, Utah — Mack Konig’s 16 points led six Montana players in double figures Monday, and the Lady Griz scored an easy 87-55 win at Weber State in Big Sky Conference women’s basketball.

Whitney, Moody shoot Griz past Weber

MISSOULA — Brandon Whitney scored 24 points, Aanen Moody added 18 and the Montana Grizzlies made a first-half lead hold up for a 77-62 win over Weber State Monday at Dahlberg Arena.

Job gains and free-spending shoppers lifted Wall Street in 2023, but new data tells another story

Job gains and raises helped power solid economic growth in the U.S. last year, but what if those gains were a mirage? The Labor Department overestimated job gains last year by about 13%.

Maine has a workforce shortage problem that it hopes to resolve with recently arrived immigrants

Maine Gov. Janet Mills and a state representative who immigrated from Somalia are looking to create a new government office that would tap recent immigrants to try to solve a workforce shortage in the state.

Stock market today: Wall Street ticks higher and adds to its record high

Most stocks rose on Wall Street Monday to build on its all-time high reached last week.

Tata Steel announces plans to cut 2,800 jobs in a blow to Welsh town built on steelmaking

Indian firm Tata Steel says it will close both blast furnaces at its plant in Port Talbot in Wales, eliminating 2,800 jobs.

Canada is capping foreign student visas to ease housing pressures as the cost of living soars

Canada has announced a two-year cap on international student visas to ease the pressure on housing, health care and other services at a time of record immigration.

Gail Faber, 66

Gail M. (Joy) Faber, 66, passed away Jan. 17, 2024, at home of natural causes.

Legals for January, 22 2024

Kalispell City Council talks garbage collection plan

Kalispell City Council on Monday is set to discuss the details surrounding a master plan for its garbage collection service that reflects the city’s growth and expanding disposal needs in years to come.

Letters to the editor Jan. 22

Letters to the editor Jan. 22

Former Kalispell mayor Pam Carbonari wraps up decades of public service

Now, after 29 years of serving Kalispell — her first eight years as a city council member, then eight years as mayor, followed by 13 years leading the city’s business improvement organizations — she has retired but still plans to stay involved in the community.

Law roundup: Tenants vanish before eviction notice is served

Someone told the Kalispell Police Department that they were trying to evict tenants who reportedly vanished along with their pet, leaving their belongings, including their phones, inside the apartment.

Opposing abortion rallies take place in Kalispell

Flathead Valley residents who want abortion rights enshrined in the state constitution and those who would like to see restrictions placed on access held respective rallies Saturday in Kalispell.

Annual economic outlook seminar focuses on state economy and green energy

Montana emerged from the pandemic as one of the clear winners among the 50 states in the strength of its economic recovery, but those hectic days of booming growth are behind us today, according to a University of Montana economist.

Time to get the job done and secure our southern border

When it’s seeding time on our farm, we seed. When it’s haying time, we put up the hay. And when it’s harvest time, we bring in the crop. We don’t sit around and hope that somebody else will do the job for us. We handle it the Montana way: rolling up our sleeves and getting to work.

Terrance ‘Terry’ Mackey, 85

Terry Mackey, age 85, died peacefully in his sleep, on Jan. 11, 2024, with his wife Theresa and dog Muffy at his side.

Gerald Parker, 93

Gerald “Jerry” Parker was born in Kalispell on Aug.1, 1930. He passed away, surrounded by family, on Jan.14, 2024.

Thrift store reopens with goal of being community hub again

There is a yard where she sees a future community garden and there are upstairs rooms where she hopes to host art activities and provide tutoring space.

John Stephen 'Jack' Slack, 86

John Stephen Slack, known to all his family and friends as “Jack,” 86, passed away peacefully at his home in Columbia Falls on Dec. 15, 2023.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Letters to the editor Jan. 21

Letters to the editor Jan. 21

Law roundup: Man needs dry cleaners stat

A man called 911 asking for a dry cleaning business in Billings.

Rachel A. Vielleux, 74

Rachel A. Vielleux passed away Jan. 10, 2024, in Whitefish.

Gregory Ellingson, 72

Greg Ellingson unexpectedly passed away on Jan.12, 2024, in his childhood home. Greg was born in Kalispell on April 6, 1951, the first son of Chet and Geri Ellingson.

Comments sought for Blankenship Bridge bank stabilization project

story

Get to know your judges

As you learn about all the candidates for various offices this year, the most important ones are the ones that most Montanans know the least about. The politicians you need to do the most research on are not the would-be congressmen, governors, or even legislators. It’s the judges.

Montana mining history — Kalispell eighth-graders pan for gold and garnets

A sign above history teacher Kris Schreiner's classroom alerted Kalispell Middle School eighth graders they were entering Alder Gulch to mine for gold and garnets.

Diane Marie Wiggin (Torgerson) , 71

Diane Marie Wiggin (Torgerson) Dec. 28, 1952 — Dec. 28, 2023.

Legals for January, 21 2024

Phyllis Anne Ausk, 86

Phyllis Anne (Faber) Ausk passed away peacefully on Jan. 14, 2024, after a five-year battle against cancer. She was a strong, spunky woman.

Kenneth Alan Feiler, 69

Kenneth Alan Feiler, 69, passed away on Jan. 14, 2024, at his residence.

Randy Dorrington, 73

On Jan. 13, Randy Dorrington peacefully lost his battle with cancer.

Mitchell 'Mitch' Lynch, 67

Mitchell Arron Lynch passed away on Jan. 9, 2024.

0122 notices

notices

Holmquist, Fern fine choices for tax reform group

Gov. Greg Gianforte’s newly selected property tax task force has been handed a tall order.

Help law enforcement stop human trafficking

Human trafficking is not just a big city problem – it’s happening right here in Montana.

Logan Jacobson, 15

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear Logan Matthew Jacobson on Jan. 15, 2024, at the age of 15.

Flathead County Sheriff's Office adding more K9 teams

Sounds of a prolonged, one-sided skirmish echoed in a large warehouse recently, where Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputies were taking part in a selection process for a new K9 handler.

Glacier boys finish strong to knock off Flathead

Liam Ells scored 15 points including some big free throws down the stretch as the Glacier boys picked up the win 60-50 against crosstown rival Flathead Friday.

NorthWestern touts coal, natural gas, in meeting record energy demand

Last week, wind contributed more to power generation than coal for about 30 hours on the grid NorthWestern Energy oversees, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Pack pounce on Flathead for first Crosstown win since 2021

Reese Ramey knocked down three 3-pointers and scored 16 points as the Glacier Wolfpack defeated Flathead 44-31 Friday.

Girls hoops: Vals downs Whitefish, move to 9-1

Eureka drubs Plains

WHITEFISH — Ave Davey scored 18 points, eight coming in a tone-setting first quarter by Bigfork in the Valkyries' 64-16 girls basketball win at Northwest A rival Whitefish Friday.

Boys hoops: Schweikert, Hill lead C-Falls over Browning

Whitefish, Eureka score wins

COLUMBIA FALLS — Cody Schweikert had 15 points and seven rebounds, Jace Hill keyed a second-half rally and Columbia Falls topped Browning 52-49 in Northwest A boys basketball Friday.

PSC President James Brown announces campaign for state auditor

Public Service Commission President James Brown is running for Montana state auditor in 2024, he announced Thursday.

PHOTOS: Glacier sweeps crosstown hoops at Flathead

Photos from crosstown basketball between Flathead and Glacier at Flathead High School on Friday, Jan. 19. The Wolfpack boys topped the Braves, 60-50, and the Glacier girls beat the Bravettes, 44-31.

Jury convicts Whitefish shooter of deliberate homicide

A Flathead County District Court jury convicted Steven Justin Hedrick on Friday evening of deliberate homicide for the 2023 shooting death of Jeffery Brookshire in an extended-stay motel in Whitefish.

Law roundup: Hooligans besiege home with sports drinks

Someone allegedly spent a night shooting a carbon dioxide gun at a woman’s house and hurling “Gatorade bombs” on the roof.

Crosstown Duals: Flathead sweeps

The top-ranked Flathead Braves and the always threatening Bravettes each picked up a dual victory on Thursday’s Crosstown at Glacier High School.

ImagineIF launches 3D printing pilot program

Access to free 3D printing services is coming to ImagineIF Libraries this month, according to a release from the county library system.

Legals for January, 19 2024

Logan Health to hold stationary bike relay in March

This year, Logan Health will host bike relays at the Glacier High School gymnasium and the Shelby Civic Center.

Crosstown Hoops: Pack girls want to stop skid; Braves seek first W

Coming into their Crosstown game at 6 p.m. Friday at the Flathead gym, neither the host Bravettes nor the visiting Glacier Wolfpack girls basketball teams have been scoring in bunches.

Multi-generational farmland protected near Creston

The Creston area stands as a testament to the Flathead Valley’s multigenerational farmers, where acres of farmland with productive soils have mostly withstood recent change.

Suspect in deadly Whitefish shooting takes witness stand

The man accused of killing Jeffery Brookshire in the hallway of an extended-stay motel in Whitefish last year told jurors on Thursday that Brookshire’s behavior before the fatal shooting left him frightened.

Town Pump foundation provides emergency grants to shelters

Shelters each received $10,000 grants. The Flathead Warming Center and the Samaritan House each received grants.

A cut above

Retooled Bravettes rely more than ever on Kennedy Moore

Kennedy Moore figures she gets her height — she’s 6-foot-2 these days — from her grandfathers, both of whom stand 6-5.

Owner of vehicle abandoned in intersection facing felony charge

A motorist who allegedly abandoned his pickup truck in the middle of the intersection of Montana 35 and Montana 206 and relocated to an area casino for drinks earlier this month is facing a criminal endangerment charge.

Attorney general blocks constitutional abortion proposal

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen has blocked a ballot proposal seeking to create a constitutional right to abortion, labeling the initiative “legally insufficient” after a required review by his office.

Blizzard buries Flathead Valley in over foot of snow

Residents across the Flathead Valley were digging out Thursday morning from a blizzard that dumped over a foot of snow in some locations.

Daily Inter Lake delivery notice

Due to severe road conditions, the Daily Inter Lake will not deliver the Thursday print edition until Friday.

‘Witch,’ a wicked comedy, comes to the stage in Whitefish

Whitefish Theatre Company presents a Black Curtain production of Jen Silverman’s exceedingly smart modern fable, “Witch.”

Bigfork's Morley among MHSA Hall of Fame inductees

The list includes Makena Morley, a 2015 Bigfork High School graduate who among other things helped Colorado to an NCAA cross country championship and continues to run professionally.

Letters to the editor Jan. 18

Letters to the editor Jan. 18

Legals for January, 18 2024

FVCC Theatre and Soroptimist partner for evening focusing on human trafficking

Mask and Hammer will present a staged reading of the play “Body and Sold,” by Deborah Lake Fortson. The documentary play aims to raise awareness of the sexual exploitation and trafficking of America’s youth.

Whitefish's Tom Ray joins elk foundation board

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation enters its 40th year of conservation with Fred Lekse serving a second consecutive year as board chair. Leske is joined by two new members representing Montana.

Dynamic music and comedy duo, Bridge & Wolak, stop in Whitefish

Called “the Victor Borges of the 21st century,” the Canadian musical and comedy duo, Bridge & Wolak, share an ambitious agenda — to create an unforgettable experience for audiences through an original, irreverent, meticulously prepared and completely in-the-moment program.

Law roundup: Worker doesn’t buy creepy man’s scheme

An employee reportedly saw a white-haired man driving a dark vehicle leave a husky at the location and told the Kalispell Police Department he was being “very creepy” and trying to get her into his vehicle. He also reportedly told her he dropped his phone ...

Prep Wrestling Polls

120 – 1, Kaura Coles (Glacier); 2, Bella Downing (Flathead); 3, Taylor Lay (Helena Capital); 4, Harley LaBuda (Big Sandy); 5, Stella Wahl (Cut Bank); 6, Kylie Schwartz (Baker)

Glacier, Flathead swimmers back in pool this weekend

The Crosstown swim meet is set for Friday at 4:30 p.m., at the Summit, which is attached to the Logan Health Medical Fitness Center.

Arts and Entertainment Events

Arts and entertainment happenings

Father-Daughter Winter Ball planned

Fathers and daughters are invited to dance the night away at the O’Shaughnessy Center on Feb. 2.

Shooting victim’s ex-girlfriend takes stand in homicide trial

Prosecutors allege that Steven Justin Hedrick, 33, committed felony assault with a weapon when he intervened — armed with a handgun — in a disturbance involving Hawkins and her ex-boyfriend, Jeffery Brookshire, in the Local Monthly Lodgings in the early morning hours of Jan. 24, 2023.

Bomb threat sent to Montana schools not credible, according to law enforcement

Kalispell Public Schools was one of many districts around Montana to receive a threatening email about a bomb. Law enforcement in counties around the state determined it wasn’t a credible threat, according to Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Photography of World War I vet Ray Weaver captured everyday life

Raymond “Ray” Weaver (1892-1964) returned to Kalispell from World War I in 1919 with permanent lung damage from a mustard gas attack in the trenches of France. On returning home, he picked up a camera ...

Photographer Chuck Haney holds annual benefit show

Acclaimed Whitefish photographer Chuck Haney will present his annual benefit show on Friday, Jan. 26 at 7 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in downtown Whitefish.

Tahoe avalanche survivor was minutes from death before rescue

The first sign of trouble came in the form of a spray of snow, rolling down from above where Jason Parker had come to a stop near the top of one of California's steepest and most famed ski runs — the face beneath Palisades Tahoe's KT-22.

Whitefish Review and Explore Whitefish host ‘Powder Days’ author

The event, presented by Whitefish Review and Explore Whitefish, will include live music, an interview with the author, a reading from her book “Powder Days,” as well as a conversation with audience members.

Crosstown mat battles are set

Flathead wrestling teams head to Glacier for duals

It wasn’t on purpose that this year’s Crosstown wrestling duals have a little extra build-up: Blame Montana weather, with last week’s blizzard wiping out, among other events, the Rocky Mountain Invitational in Missoula.

Local organizations create online guide to living in the Flathead

The idea started two years ago when local groups started talking together about creating a resource to expand people’s knowledge of the area, and what it means to exist among nature.

Grizzly bear population out of control

I've lived here in the Swan Valley since June of 1963 and spent my whole life in the woods, rivers and lakes, but mostly in the mountains. I've fished and hunted mostly for whitetail deer, elk, and grouse since I turned 12 years of age.

Column: Regrettable detail, remarkable season

The most recent press conference hall of fame moment, where Tampa Bay coach Todd Bowles was asked about playing in frigid Detroit on Sunday — “You do know we play indoors, right?” Bowles answered — has me thinking about last Sept. 2.

Helen Gallagher, 96

Helen Gallagher passed away on Jan. 14, 2024, in her home surrounded by her family, as was her wish.

Kalispell considers entering fray over planning lawsuit

The act, created by Senate Bill 382, directs cities to streamline planning and zoning processes while focusing public participation during the creation of land-use plans rather than specific projects.

Valley Voices Community Choir begins spring season

Composed at last count of over 70 members, the choir is open to everyone who wants to sing. Concerts this season will be the last weekend of April.

Columbia Falls city manager set to retire

After a 40-year career in government, including more than 25 years in Columbia Falls, City Manager Susan Nicosia tendered her resignation to the City Council.

Blizzard warning issued for Flathead Valley

The National Weather Service warned that Flathead Valley roads could become impassable by Thursday morning due to deep and drifting snow.

Gov. Gianforte announces run for second term

Greg Gianforte, a Republican, was elected by a wide margin in 2020, breaking a 16-year streak of Democrats in the Montana governor’s office.

Former millworker now penning a host of books

The Monster Masher started as a family story, told on car rides, around campfires and at bedtime.

Montana Supreme Court upholds landmark climate ruling that said emissions can't be ignored

Montana's Supreme Court has rejected an attempt by the state's Republican governor to block a landmark climate ruling that said regulators must consider the effects of greenhouse gas emissions when issuing permits for fossil fuel development.

Trial begins for Whitefish shooting suspect

County Attorney Travis Ahner opened his case against accused killer Steven Hedrick on Tuesday by asking jurors to hold the 33-year-old responsible for turning an argument over noise with a neighbor in a Whitefish extended stay hotel last year into a deadly shooting.

WINGS annual radiothon raises funds for cancer treatments

Wings Cancer Regional Support gave around $300,000 to cancer patients in Flathead, Lincoln and Lake counties last year.

Drunk driver accused of accosting another motorist with a gun sentenced

Judge Heidi Ulbricht handed down a suspended six-month jail sentence to Del Thomas Russon, 55, for misdemeanor assault and a one-year jail sentence with all but 30 days suspended for a misdemeanor drunk driving charge.

Pauline Martinez, 95

Pauline Martinez was born Feb. 2, 1928, and died Jan. 10, 2024.

Experts monitoring multiple variables ahead of wildfire season

After a historically hot and dry summer in Northwest Montana last year, experts and scientists are spending the colder months monitoring moisture levels, weather patterns, drought and other factors in anticipation of the upcoming fire season.

Law roundup: Man fired up about smoke

A man called the Columbia Falls Police Department to report seeing smoke coming from the middle of a school roof and became frustrated when he allegedly thought firefighters weren’t looking in the “right spot.”

Bobcats’ Ford III shares Big Sky honor

BOZEMAN — Behind a pair of double-doubles that helped lead Montana State to two big home wins this past weekend, Robert Ford III was selected Big Sky co-Player of the Week, the conference office announced on Tuesday.

Richard M LaPiana, 84

Richard LaPiana passed away on Jan. 10, 2024, peacefully surrounded by his family and his beloved dog Guido.

Legals for January, 17 2024

Whitefish Community Foundation accepting community grant applications

Eligible nonprofits may apply for up to $10,000 for programs or projects benefiting residents of Flathead County or for health and human service programs benefiting residents of Lincoln and Glacier counties.

Fred R. LaRoque, 83

Fred R. LaRoque, 83

Gerald (Jerry) Conyers, 77

Gerald (Jerry) Conyers, 77

Rev. Judith Schenck, 81

Rev. Judith Schenck of Kalispell, Montana, died Friday, Dec. 29, 2023, at Kalispell Rehab Nursing Home.

Helen Gallagher, 96

Helen Gallagher passed away on Jan. 14, 2024, in her home surrounded by her family, as was her wish.

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson ends his 2024 campaign after sixth-place finish in Iowa caucuses

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) — Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson dropped his long-shot bid for the Republican presidential nomination on Tuesday, ending a candidacy that was a throwback to an earlier era of the GOP but ultimately failed to resonate in a party now dominated by Donald Trump.

Vivek Ramaswamy suspends his 2024 Republican presidential bid and endorses rival Donald Trump

Biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy suspended his bid for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination on Monday and endorsed former President Donald Trump after finishing a distant fourth in Iowa's leadoff caucuses.

Class action lawsuit claims Montana discriminates against out-of-state financial advisers

Even more, the lawsuit, filed in Lewis and Clark County on Friday, says that the 2019 Legislature knew that the law likely violated the privileges and immunities clause of the United States Constitution, but passed it anyway.

Vivian L. McDougall, 97

Memorial services for Vivian McDougall, 97, of Norfolk, Neb., will be 11 a.m., Jan. 20, 2024, at Norfolk Church of Christ. Jeff Schipper will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church.

Volunteers needed to help conduct homeless Point-in-Time survey

Collaborative Housing Solutions of Northwest Montana is seeking volunteers to assist in handing out its annual Point-in-Time survey, which helps get an accurate count of the area’s homeless population.

Gary Lee Palmer, 78

Gary Lee Palmer was born to Helen and George Palmer on his father's birthday, March 9, 1945.

Suspect in road rage incident allegedly drove drunk

Jacob Michael Krone, 27, faces one felony count of assault with a weapon and a misdemeanor charge of driving under the influence, first offense, following his Jan. 6 arrest.

American Red Cross encourages blood drive sign-ups after holiday season shortage

Officials with the American Red Cross are reporting the lowest number of blood donors nationwide in 20 years following a 7,000-unit shortfall in blood donations between Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Letters to the editor Jan. 16

Letters to the editor Jan. 16

Delays in state contracts leave Montana health providers strapped

Montana health organizations say a state government backlog in paying its contractors has hindered their ability to provide care, and they worry the bottleneck’s ripple effects will be felt long after the money comes through.

Megan Nicole Hopkins, 25

Megan Nicole Hopkins, 25, of Three Forks, passed away on Jan. 1, 2024.

Law roundup: Man wants police to clear the air

A man turned to the Kalispell Police Department for help clearing the air because he reportedly could barely breathe from someone smoking from somewhere inside his apartment building.

Daines’ next public meeting will be his first

After Senator Steve Daines’ latest top-down bill to strip protections from over 100,000 acres of public lands, we’re standing alongside thousands of Montanans and calling on the senator to meet openly, honestly, and publicly with his constituents to hear our concerns about his policies.

Trump notches win in Iowa caucuses as DeSantis edges Haley for second

Former President Donald Trump scored a record-setting win in the Iowa caucuses on Monday with his rivals languishing far behind, a victory that sent a resounding message that the GOP's 2024 presidential nomination is his to lose.

Troy man in critical condition after leading authorities on chase

A Troy man with a troubled past is in an Idaho hospital after a police chase Saturday evening that involved authorities from multiple jurisdictions before ending just over the Montana-Idaho border.

Heavy snow moves in as arctic air retreats

The records kept falling Monday as a stubborn arctic blast refused to retreat north.

Austin is released from hospital after complications from prostate cancer surgery he kept secret

WASHINGTON (AP) — Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was released from the hospital Monday, after spending two weeks there to treat complications from surgery for prostate cancer he kept secret from senior Biden administration leaders and staff for weeks.

Fake 911 report of fire at the White House triggers emergency response while Biden is at Camp David

WASHINGTON (AP) — A fake 911 call that the White House was on fire sent emergency vehicles to the complex Monday morning, when President Joe Biden and his family were at Camp David.

People who lost Medicaid urged to look at full scope of options

Tim Noonan grabs a number to head inside to wait for his turn at the Office of Public Assistance in Kalispell. He’s a mental health worker at Logan Health and he’s there to work on restoring Medicaid coverage for two of his young patients.

Flathead student runs on supportive leadership

Flathead High School senior Hailey Hendrickson is a motivated student-athlete and decisive leader who guides others with encouragement and kindness.

Bobcats win thriller

Montana State put on an offensive clinic and secured enough stops down the stretch to pull out a thrilling 90-81 win over Northern Colorado on Saturday night inside Worthington Arena.

Legals for January, 15 2024

Griz rout Lumberjacks for biggest league win in 27 years

Montana needed to rebound on Saturday against Northern Arizona and they did so in emphatic fashion, routing Northern Arizona 90-47 for the largest Big Sky Conference win since 1997.

Kalispell City Council to schedule public hearing on state infrastructure funds

Kalispell City Council is set Tuesday to confirm the date for a public hearing on how to potentially spend funds made available through the State-Local Infrastructure Partnership Act of 2023.

Law roundup: Grandma suspects jewel thief is relative

The Kalispell Police Department received a call from an upset grandmother whose granddaughter allegedly found the key to her safe and stole a diamond and gold necklace and a diamond and sapphire ring valued around $2,100. To add insult to injury...

Letters to the editor Jan. 15

Letters to the editor Jan. 15

Whitefish Council examines changes to housing project

Whitefish City Council on Tuesday will discuss a request to change the parameters of a planned affordable housing development located on a city-donated lot.

PHOTOS: Cold snap

Photos taken this week as snow, gusting winds and frigid subzero temperatures from an arctic air mass descended on the Flathead Valley.

Gary Lee Palmer, 78

Gary Lee Palmer, 78, passed away Jan. 9, 2024, at Logan Health Medical Center. He was born to Helen and George Palmer on his father’s birthday March 9, 1945.

Presidential candidacy disqualification

There are four qualifications set forth in the U.S. Constitution that must be met before any “person” can be placed on the ballot and run for the office of president:

Don't get caught off guard by new public participation rules

The 2023 Legislature delivered a package of bills that reform Montana’s land-use codes with an eye toward fixing the state’s housing crisis. The legislation was a top priority for Gov. Greg Gianforte and his mandate to cut so-called red tape that stymies new development.

Robert 'Bob' Arthur Look, 94

Robert Arthur Look, 94, passed away Jan. 4, 2024, in Kalispell.

Law roundup: It’s not all about the Benjamins for manager

A manager with a stack of fake $100 bills he didn’t know what to do with called the Kalispell Police Department worried that the employee, who allegedly placed them all over the building for others to find as a prank, would be using them elsewhere. He said ...

Bilingual Montessori preschool opens opportunities in Whitefish

At Big Sky Montessori, children will be greeted with, “Hola, ¿como estás?” They will learn replies like “Muy bien” meaning “very good” or “¡Fantástico!” which is Spanish for “Fantastic!” Throughout the year, the kids, ranging from ages 2 to 6 years old, will be introduced to many Spanish phrases and words in the preschool classroom.

Carlosses to reign as Whitefish carnival king and queen

Whitefish residents Pat and Missy Carloss will reign as the Whitefish Winter Carnival King Ullr LXV and Queen of Snow. They were crowned during a coronation ceremony Saturday evening in downtown Whitefish.

Wholesale inflation in US declined last month, signaling that price pressures are still easing

U.S. wholesale inflation fell for a third straight month in December, further evidence that price pressures in the economy are easing. The government's producer price index — which tracks inflation before it reaches consumers — declined 0.1% from November to December.

Dustin Schellinger Ohs, 39

Dustin David Schellinger Ohs, 39, was born July 19, 1984, to Kristi Schellinger Troutman and David Troutman in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

Legals for January, 14 2024

Kenneth N. Svendsen, 94

Kenneth N. Svendsen, 94, passed away Jan. 6, 2024. He was born Sept. 15, 1929, in Chinook.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Packers cultivate sunny outlook

Days are supposed to be stretching longer since solstice but to me it doesn’t feel like it. Winter can be hard around here.

How to fix inhumane and broken immigration policies

We are former public school teachers residing in Kalispell. For the last five winters we have come to the border of Arizona and Mexico to help teach migrant children who do not have the opportunity to go to school.

Lady Griz come through on the road

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — On the back end of the Big Sky Conference’s longest road trip and coming off a disappointing result on Thursday, the Montana women’s basketball team showed every ounce of its mettle on Saturday afternoon in Flagstaff, Ariz.

Dr. King educated our nation

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. would have been 95 years old this year. Tragically, he was assassinated in Memphis in 1968. Jan. 15, Dr. King’s birthday, is a federal holiday to remember the importance of his life and service.

Olympics brings on its first beer brand as a global sponsor — Budweiser's AB InBev

The International Olympic Committee has signed the first beer brand in the 40-year history of a sponsorship program that earns billions of dollars for the organization and international sports.

Letters to the editor Jan. 14

Letters to the editor Jan. 14

Science of the past and future — Flathead Lake Biological Station studies the Crown of the Continent

The year 2024 marks the 125th anniversary of the Flathead Lake Biological Station, a world-renowned research facility. The station, as an administrative unit within the University of Montana system, conducts college courses and research focused on the Crown of the Continent ecosystem.

Cheryl Lee Turley, 72

Cheryl Lee (Bernard) Turley, 72 of Kalispell, peacefully passed away on Jan. 4, 2024.

Delta posts a $2 billion quarterly profit, but shares dip as airline trims forecast of 2024 earnings

Delta Air Lines says it closed 2023 strong and expects another good year in 2024. But the shares are falling because Delta trimmed a forecast for full-year 2024 earnings.

Biden stops by Pennsylvania stores to talk up his record on small business creation

President Joe Biden on Friday tried his hand at retail politics — stopping in a trio of Pennsylvania stores to stress the value of small businesses and talk up his economic record.

Judge strikes down state’s new dispensary licensing fees

Under House Bill 903, a dispensary would have had to pay $5,000 to renew a license for its first shop, and then a cumulatively additional $5,000 for each additional location.

Writing Coaches looking for volunteers

Specifically, the program seeks to help students think critically about their writing assignments so they can become confident and competent writers across disciplines.

Everett A. Sheffield, 83

Everett Allen Sheffield, 83, was born Feb. 9, 1940, in the small town of Scotland, South Dakota.

Banks upbeat on US consumer despite bank profit declines, inflation and rising debt levels

The biggest banks in the country posted strong profits last year, helped by higher interest rates and a strong economy, despite having to deal the lingering industry costs of last year's banking crisis that caused the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank.

New Columbia Falls day care specializes in infants

In September of 2023, the Delgados opened Lil Buckaroo’s, an infant-only child care service, at 729 Nucleus Avenue A in Columbia Falls.

Survey finds growing tolerance among Montanans for wolves

MISSOULA – Montanans have varying attitudes and beliefs about wolves and wolf management, and over time some of those feelings have shifted, according to a new survey conducted cooperatively by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the University of Montana.

Deep freeze delivers record lows to Flathead Valley

Saturday morning brought the kind of bitter cold to the Flathead Valley that saps car batteries, freezes pipes and takes your breath away.

Flathead Lake Biological Station remembers its past while conducting cutting-edge research

From its inception in 1899, the Flathead Lake Biological Station was known as the “Sentinel,” or guardian, of the lake. For researchers working in the facility today, that sentiment still holds true.

State investigating complaint against Libby Police officer

State investigators are looking into a complaint against a Libby Police officer.

Convicted drug dealer gets three-year sentence after revocation

Judge Amy Eddy ordered Gordon Nicholas Breeden, 40, to the state Department of Corrections for three years after revoking the suspended sentence on Dec. 7.

Gianforte names members to property tax task force

Gov. Greg Gianforte announced Thursday the membership of a task force charged with formulating recommendations for ways the state could reduce the burden property taxes put on Montana residents.

Blacktail Mountain opens for ski season Sunday

Following a good dose of winter weather this week, Blacktail Mountain Ski Area plans to open for the season on Sunday, Jan. 14 with limited terrain.

Donations assist Housing Whitefish program

The contribution will be further amplified by a $15,000 match from various Foley Family businesses in Whitefish.

Montana Supreme Court removes Lake County judge from child-custody case

In a 5-0 opinion, the Montana Supreme Court took what justices describe as “an extraordinary remedy” of asserting “supervisory control” over a Lake County child-custody case.

Hardin lawmaker appointed state commerce director

Gov. Greg Gianforte announced this week that he has tapped Rep. Paul Green, R-Hardin, to replace former Montana Department of Commerce Director Scott Osterman, putting the eastern Montana lawmaker at the helm of the state’s primary economic development agency.

Samaritan House opens up emergency shelter space amid winter storm

Samaritan House is working with other members of Collaborative Housing Solutions of Northwest Montana to prepare for winter storm overflow at its main shelter during the subzero forecast for this weekend.

NAU women hit 12 3s against Bobcats

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Emily Rodabaugh scored 23 points, including seven of Northern Arizona’s 12 3-pointers and the Lumberjacks defeated Montana State 88-73 in Big Sky conference women's basketball.

Kalispell Planning Commission begins work on new public participation process

The Kalispell Planning Commission on Tuesday took a first look at a proposed public participation process for future development decisions as required by the Montana Land Use Planning Act.

Law roundup: The snow wars, begun they have

Accusing a neighbor of plowing snow onto her property, a woman asked the Kalispell Police Department to put a stop to it. When she asked the man to stop, he just cussed her out, she said.

Iris Ann Ostrom, 87

Iris Ann Ostrom, 87, passed away Jan. 7, 2024, in Kalispell.

UNC surges past Lady Griz

GREELEY, Colo. — Northern Colorado’s Hannah Simental hit five 3-pointers and scored 17 points Thursday, and keyed the Bears’ third-quarter surge in their 67-57 Big Sky Conference women’s basketball win over Montana.

Legals for January, 12 2024

Carolee "Robin" Crouch, 72

Carolee "Robin" Crouch, passed away after a brief battle with cancer on Jan. 9, 2024, at the age of 72.

Kalispell standoff suspect given suspended sentence

The man at the center of a Kalispell standoff involving the regional SWAT team in September received a suspended sentence in Flathead County District Court on Jan. 3.

Blizzard cancels several athletic events

The winter storm pummeling the state has postponed all but a couple high school athletic events through the weekend, and it is questionable that those will happen.

Authorities identify body discovered in Kalispell building

Officials identified Thursday the dead body discovered inside a Kalispell building earlier this week as that of 36-year-old Jennifer Pervais.

Winter storm creates severe road conditions in Flathead Valley

Some local services were closed and events canceled Thursday as a major winter storm loaded with gusting winds and heavy snow created dangerous driving conditions.

Hunter Biden expected to plead not guilty in Los Angeles hearing on federal tax charges

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden's son will head back to court on Thursday for arraignment in Los Angeles on federal tax charges filed after the collapse of a plea deal that could have spared him the spectacle of a criminal trial during the 2024 campaign.

Polson girls knock off Whitefish Tuesday

POLSON — Samantha Rensvold scored 16 points, Natalie Adams added 12 and Polson defeated Whitefish 45-41 in overtime in girls basketball on Tuesday.

Hill still runs the point

COLUMBIA FALLS — Jace Hill leads the Columbia Falls Wildcats onto the court each game as the starting point guard, a fact everyone around these parts is used to.

Failed fishery management

Sunday’s Daily Inter Lake had an interesting article about a Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks proposal for what might be viewed as reinventing the wheel. The proposal is considering to restart a program to kill lake trout in Swan Lake.

Flathead Warming Center prepares for frigid temperatures

With temperatures predicted to drop to 30 below zero in some areas of Northwest Montana in coming days, staff at the Flathead Warming Center are preparing to do whatever they can to get people indoors.

Legals for January, 11 2024

Climbers raise red flags over proposed anchor rules for national parks

The mountain climbing community is concerned that new rules being proposed by the National Park Service and Forest Service could hinder their sport, making some mountains impossible to scale.

Letters to the editor Jan. 11

Letters to the editor Jan. 11

Nordic skiing trails open in Whitefish, Bigfork, Columbia Falls

Glacier Nordic Center in Whitefish finally opened for the season this week after a winter storm dumped just enough snow to thoroughly blanket the trails at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.

Wrestling: AA boys, girls polls

MONTANA GIRLS: 100 — 1, River Cote (Ronan); 2, Victoria Tenney (Skyview); 3, Serina Catt (Senior); 4, Kyra Anderson (Chester-Joplin); 5, Karlie Payne (Park/Sweet Grass); 6, Peyton Liva (Butte). 107 — 1, Angelina Escarcega (Poplar); 2, Hayley Pedersen (Simms); 3, Brooke Yeadon (Glacier); 4, Katelynn Vanderpool (Corvallis); 5, Grace Buck (Chinook); 6, Evelyn Arciga (Lockwood).

Climate crisis: We’re all in it together

The year 2024 will be the most consequential one in the history of the United States. This I believe because the existence of our system of constitutional democracy is being challenged by forces who want to give more authoritarian power to a single leader than has ever happened before.

Law roundup: One bark too many unhinges man

A man was allegedly slamming doors, swearing and “going crazy” on his neighbors and their dogs, saying, “Tell your daughter to take the dog for a walk.”

Alleged death threats leave man facing felony charge

Jonathan Harley Glode, 31, remains in the county jail with bail set at $100,000 following his Jan. 5 arrest.

Silent-era great to show at museum movie night

Called one of the greatest films of the silent era by many critics, the 1927 romantic drama “Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans,” will be shown at Movie Night at the Museum on Jan. 23.

Polson’s Miracle of America Museum holds Winter Fest

Visitors to the Miracle of America Museum in Polson can learn more about (and take a ride on) some of these early machines when the museum holds its third annual Winter Fest on Saturday, Jan. 13 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Author releases historical fiction novel

History blends with an intriguing plot in Kalispell author Kate Fraser’s recently published novel “Do You Really Want to Know?”

Wachholz College Center hosts list of entertainment this month

The Wachholz College Center begins 2024 with a stellar lineup of musicians and speakers.

Nomination period opens for High Plains Book Awards

Nominations for the 2024 High Plains Book Awards are being accepted through March 8. Winners will receive $500.

Kalispell Public Schools levies on tap for May election

The school district may also choose to cancel but had to approve the elections to meet upcoming state deadlines. Amounts will be set at a later date.

Assault suspect already facing two felony cases

Prosecutors filed a single count of felony assault with a weapon against Nolan Wayne Hamman, 31, after the alleged Jan. 4 incident. Booked into county jail Jan. 5, Hamman remains behind bars with bail set at $80,000.

Bobcats elevate tight ends coach Walker to OC

BOZEMAN — Montana State wasted no time finding its next offensive coordinator, promoting fourth-year staff member Tyler Walker Wednesday to replace Tyler Housewright, who left to be the OC for the Akron Zips.

Bail reduction denied for arson suspect

Jason Jerald Andreaus Meyer pleaded not guilty to a single count of arson in Flathead County District Court prior to the Jan. 4 bail modification hearing.

Montana fire chief who had refused vaccine mandate in Washington state charged in Jan. 6 riot

WASHINGTON (AP) — A Montana fire chief who lost a previous job over a coronavirus vaccine mandate has been charged with spraying a chemical irritant on police officers during the riot at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Brutal cold, heavy snow bears down on Flathead Valley

Local emergency officials are advising residents to slow down on the roads and take extra precautions before heading out this week as a potentially historic winter storm bears down on the region.

Searches underway following avalanche at California ski resort near Lake Tahoe

OLYMPIC VALLEY, Calif. (AP) — Search teams were deployed following an avalanche Wednesday at a California ski resort near Lake Tahoe as a major storm with snow and gusty winds moved into the region, officials said.

Barnes & Noble to open Kalispell location in January

A Barnes & Noble bookstore is poised to open a location in North Kalispell later this month.

Republicans push ahead with Hunter Biden contempt charge after his surprise visit to Capitol Hill

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans on Wednesday took the first step toward holding Hunter Biden in contempt of Congress for defying a congressional subpoena. They advanced the charge to a full House vote just hours after the president's son sparked a momentary political frenzy by appearing in the front row for part of the debate.

Kalispell City Council vets public education campaign for emergency responder levy request

Kalispell City Council on Monday reviewed the municipality’s forthcoming public education campaign for an emergency responder levy request going before voters in March.

Kastelitz, Glacier boys take down Eagles

MISSOULA — Cohen Kastelitz scored 19 points and the Glacier Wolfpack overcame a hot start by Missoula Big Sky to bank a 49-44 win over the Eagles in Western AA basketball Tuesday.

Efforts in Lincoln County to reduce Montana 37 speed limit bear fruit

Efforts by a group of Lincoln County residents and the county commissioners to lower the speed limit on Montana 37 have proven fruitful.

Stella Rhodes, 95

Stella Rhodes, 95

Law roundup: Drunk man demands bar arrange ride home

A highly intoxicated bar patron thrown out of the establishment called 911 from the parking lot, refusing to leave, alleging he was thrown to the ground and complained that employees had not arranged a ride for him to get home despite overserving him. He said ...

FVCC Lincoln County offers test prep courses

Flathead Valley Community College’s Lincoln County campus in Libby will be offering three different sessions of HiSET preparation classes during the upcoming Spring 2024 semester.

County planning board looks at 105-lot subdivision

The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday will consider a request to create a 105-lot residential subdivision in West Valley.

State health officials report first pediatric flu death of 2023-24 season

A Big Horn County child has died of the flu, the first pediatric death of the 2023-24 flu season in Montana, state health officials say.

Legals for January, 10 2024

Flathead Electric scholarship applications due Feb. 25

Flathead Electric Cooperative is offering over $117,000 in scholarships to local students this year.

Gulick leads Whitefish over Polson boys

POLSON — Whitefish’s Carson Gulick poured in 29 points, nine to spark a strong third quarter that pushed the Bulldogs past Polson 64-60 in Northwest A boys basketball Tuesday.

Glacier swimmers dominate Polson meet

POLSON — Glacier swimmers controlled the water on Saturday at the Polson invite bringing home 14 individual victories as well as the boys, girls, and combined team titles.

Yvonne Heidegger, 80

Yvonne Marie (Kaski) Heidegger, 80, passed away Jan. 8, 2024, at her home in Lonepine, Montana.

Big Sky girls overpower Pack

Kaydence Couture knocked down three 3-pointers and scored a game high 13 points as Big Sky defeated Glacier 48-26 in girls basketball Tuesday.

Grizzlies’ QB McDowell enters transfer portal

Clifton McDowell, the senior quarterback who just helped the Montana Grizzlies to the Division I Football Championship this past Sunday, announced Tuesday that’s entered the NCAA transfer portal.

Suspicious death in Kalispell under investigation

The Kalispell Police Department is investigating a potentially suspicious death inside a building near 18th Street East and Third Avenue East.

Sheriff: Child killed in New Year’s Day shooting

One child killed another in what authorities are describing as an accidental New Year’s Day shooting in Marion.

Wisconsin lumber company fined nearly $300,000 for dangerous conditions after employee death

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A northeastern Wisconsin lumber company has been fined nearly $300,000 by federal safety regulators for continuing to expose workers to amputation and other dangers years after an employee was killed on the job.

Letters to the editor Jan. 9

Letters to the editor Jan. 9

Permanent trust needed for behavioral health

When I first joined NAMI Montana, I didn’t understand the tight relationship between the overall economy, the state budget, and the life-saving care that individual Montana families receive across the state. The state budget was deep in the red based upon a number of factors that had nothing to do with anyone in Montana.

Suellen Deist Brady, 74

Suellen Kay (Deist) Brady, 74, passed away peacefully on Dec. 29, 2023, surrounded by family and friends.

Colin Murray, 40

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Colin Michael Murray, born in Kalispell, Montana, on Nov. 29, 1983. Colin left this world on Dec. 25, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love and friendship.

Timothy Quinn, 76

Timothy Paul Quinn, 76, of Whitefish, Montana, passed away on Jan. 3, 2024.

Glacier speech and debate team secures home turf win at Yeti Invitational

Glacier High School captured first place on home turf this weekend at the Yeti Invitational speech and debate tournament, followed by runner-up, Flathead High School.

Convicted felon charged for grabbing at deputy’s gun during arrest

A Lakeside man sentenced in multiple cases over the summer is back in county jail after allegedly attacking his girlfriend Jan. 4 and trying to grab a deputy’s gun during his subsequent arrest.

Montana to truck grizzlies into Yellowstone region to improve delisting prospects

Fresh grizzly bear bloodlines are expected to arrive in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem this summer, adding genetic diversity to a population of animals that’s been isolated for a century.

Legals for January, 9 2024

Warrant issued for St. Ignatius man accused of killing thousands of birds, including eagles

A federal judge issued an arrest warrant Monday for a Montana man who failed to show up for an initial court appearance on charges of killing thousands of birds, including bald and golden eagles. A second defendant pleaded not guilty.

Montana governor, first lady buy mansion for $4M for governor's residence, will donate it to state

HELENA (AP) — Montana's Gov. Greg Gianforte and first lady Susan Gianforte have purchased a historic Helena mansion for $4 million that they eventually plan to donate to the state for use as the governor's mansion, the governor's office announced Monday.

Dangerous arctic outbreak to slam Flathead Valley

Travel will become difficult to impossible across Northwest Montana this week as a significant and potentially dangerous arctic outbreak sweeps across the region.

Boeing jetliner that suffered inflight blowout was restricted because of concern over warning light

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — The Boeing jetliner that suffered an inflight blowout over Oregon was not being used for flights to Hawaii after a warning light that could have indicated a pressurization problem lit up on three different flights.

Seeing Blue: Grizzlies fall to SDSU 23-3 in title game

Grizzlies fall to SDSU 23-3 in title game

Helena downs Glacier girls

HELENA — Madi Todorovich scored 19 points, Avery Kraft added 18 and Helena defeated Glacier 59-45 in girls basketball Saturday.

Ronan girls cruise against Libby

RONAN — Maddy Illig knocked down three 3-pointers and scored 12 points as Ronan defeated Libby 43-26 in girls basketball Saturday.

Saylers, Bruins pull away from Bravettes

HELENA — Helena Capital’s Taylor Sayers scored 16 points, seven coming in a 19-5 third-quarter surge in the Bruins’ 48-20 Western AA girls basketball win over Flathead Saturday.

Flathead falls short against Capital

Cole Dawes scored 21 points, Merek Mihelish added 11 and Capital defeated Flathead 61-52 in boys basketball Saturday.

Champion Jackrabbits negated Griz special teams

FRISCO, Texas — Montana rightly has a reputation for strong special teams play, and South Dakota State was able to keep a handle on that threat, too, in Sunday’s FCS title game.

Law roundup: Woman finds her dog covered in blood

Flathead County Sheriff’s Department received a report from a Columbia Falls woman whose dog was reportedly found covered in blood and she said her neighbor shoots at the canine whenever it barks.

Letters to the editor Jan. 8

Letters to the editor Jan. 8

Kalispell City Council to review education campaign for public safety levy request

Kalispell City Council will take a look Monday at a proposed educational campaign for a public safety levy request headed before voters in March.

Legals for January, 8 2024

Births

Births

Charlene F. Biedermann, 84

Charlene F. Biedermann, 84 of Bigfork, peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones on Dec. 31, 2023.

Lily Gladstone is the Golden Globes' first Indigenous best actress winner

Lily Gladstone won best actress in a dramatic film for Martin Scorsese's "Killers of the Flower Moon."

PHOTOS: Griz fall to Jackrabbits in FCS Championship, 23-3

Photos from the Montana Grizzlies' 23-3 loss to the South Dakota State Jackrabbits in the FCS National Championship at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas on Sunday, Jan. 7.

PHOTOS: Montana fans welcome the Griz at pregame Player Walk

Montana Grizzlies fans welcome the team to Toyota Stadium during the pregame Player Walk before the FCS National Championship against the South Dakota State Jackrabbits in Frisco, Texas on Sunday, Jan. 7.

Montana fans travel far to see Grizzlies in FCS title game

The Montana Grizzlies are back in the NCAA Division I Football Championship for the first time since 2009, and there’s no way Mark Josephson wasn’t going to be there in person.

Photos of 2023 by Daily Inter Lake photographer Casey Kreider

Look back through a selection of photos from 2023 by Daily Inter Lake photographer Casey Kreider.

Kalispell flower shop designs modern garden arrangements

Samantha Nolan is well versed in her knowledge about plants having grown up working at her family’s nursery, but she’s begun working with flowers in a new way by opening a floral shop in downtown Kalispell.

Law roundup: Man locked in bathroom at closing time

A man allegedly went to use a store’s bathroom and was locked inside during closing time. He called ...

Virginia L. Herbig, 89

On Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023, Virginia “Ginny” Herbig, 89, peacefully left this world at her home in Kalispell, surrounded by members of her loving family, just missing her 90th birthday.

Legislation one step in repairing a broken system

One of the major accomplishments of the 2023 Legislature came through the passage of House Bill 872.

PepsiCo products are being pulled from some Carrefour grocery stores in Europe over price hikes

The French grocery chain said it pulled PepsiCo products from shelves in France on Thursday and added small signs in stores that say, “We no longer sell this brand due to unacceptable price increases.”

National chain Take 5 Oil Change opens in Kalispell

The Kalispell location marks the first of eight planned stores within Montana, currently making Last Best Oil Change, LLC the exclusive operator of Take 5 Oil Change garages in the Treasure State.

With native fish declining in Swan Lake, state wildlife officials target invasive trout

Hoping to preserve dwindling native bull trout populations, state wildlife officials are looking to remove lake trout from Swan Lake.

Wall Street shaves off some losses to close its worst week in the last 10

Wall Street closed its worst week since Halloween with a listless Friday after reports showed workers are getting bigger raises, but key parts of the economy still don’t look like they’re overheating.

Montana needs a standard against anti-semitism in courts

The horrific terror attack against Israeli on Oct. 7 revealed that antisemitic hatred has a disturbing foothold in the world. Equally troubling is what has been exposed in our own country in the months since: the shocking tolerance (encouragement even) of antisemitic, genocidal hatred on college campuses.

Bring on the Jacks

Grizzlies take underdog role into FCS title game

FRISCO, Texas — For No. 2 Montana to pull off the upset of No.1 South Dakota State Sunday, some things are going to have to hold up for the 13-1 Grizzlies.

Legals for January, 7 2024

Letters to the editor Jan. 7

Letters to the editor Jan. 7

Glacier holds off Helena in double overtime

Cohen Kastelitz scored 21 points and Liam Ells added eight including a buzzer beater to force double overtime and the Glacier Wolfpack defeated Helena 70-66 in double overtime in boys basketball.

US employers add a surprisingly strong 216,000 jobs in a sign of continued economic strength

Friday’s government report showed that December’s job gain exceeded the 173,000 that were added in November. The unemployment rate was unchanged at 3.7% — the 23rd straight month that joblessness has come in below 4%.

US payrolls pick up, wages gain as labor market stays solid

U.S. job growth picked up in December and wage gains exceeded expectations, diminishing prospects for an imminent Federal Reserve interest-rate cut.

Randall Neumann, 73

Randall Eugene Neumann, 73, born May 6, 1950, to Rose Marie Courville Dupuis and Kenneth Neumann, of Polson, made his transition into the spirit world on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2024, surrounded by his family and friends.

Jacquelyn Little, 85

Jacquelyn G. Little, 85, passed away on Dec. 19, 2023, at her home.

Quinn Colton Stewart, 12

On Jan. 1, 2024, our sweet boy was called home to be with his Lord, Jesus Christ. Quinn C. Stewart, 12, was born on March 28, 2011, in Bountiful, Utah.

Winter Carnival names Prime, Duchess

Regan Peschel was crowned Duchess of Lark and Mike Vrentas was named Prime Minister.

Diane Wood, 91

Noble Diane Josephine Burleigh Wood, 91, was born to Kerwood and Dorothy Sadlier Burleigh in 1932 in Eastern Montana.

Twila Jean Williams, 90

Twila Jean Williams, 90, was born July 7, 1933, in Elk City, Oklahoma, to Sam and Ledger Anders. She left this world for her home in heaven on Jan. 1, 2024, in Kalispell.

Brave Brawlers finish second in Bozeman

BOZEMAN — Flathead finished as runner up to Billings West at the Tom LeProwse wrestling tournament Saturday at Gallatin High. Billings West edged Flathead by just a point and a half to win 251.5 to 250.

Wolfpack take fifth at the Pacific Northwest Classic

SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. — The Glacier Wolfpack wrestling team took home fifth place in the Pacific Northwest Classic tournament at University High in Spokane Valley Saturday.

Montana won’t move on climate unless we act

This summer Montana was the center of a historic climate victory when 14 courageous young people filed suit to defeat parts of the Gov. Greg Gianforte administration's corporate agenda of backing fossil fuel and mining companies over our interests.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Glacier Institute closes in on fundraising goal for Big Creek Center restoration

The Glacier Institute received a $250,000 grant from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust to be used for renovations to the home base of its outdoor camps and programs.

An easy fix to Montana's property taxes

The median property tax increase for Montana homeowners went up 21% this year.

Global food prices declined from record highs in 2022, the UN says. Except for these two staples

The U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization says global prices for food commodities like grain and vegetable oil fell last year from record highs in 2022. The agency said Friday that the FAO Food Price Index was 13.7% lower last year than the 2022 average, but its measures of sugar and rice prices growing in that time.

Kraft, Helena handle Bravettes Friday

HELENA — Avery Kraft fueled Helena’s hot start with three first-quarter 3-pointers, and the Bengals pulled away in the fourth for a 44-24 Western AA girls basketball win over Flathead Friday.

PHOTOS: Montana fans show out for Griz at Frisco Griz Gathering

Montana fans, as well as an appearance by Grizzlies mascot Monte and the University of Montana Spirit Squad, showed up in support of the Griz at a Griz Gathering held at the Frisco Bar & Grill in advance of the FCS National Championship game against the South Dakota State Jackrabbits on Friday, Jan. 5.

Bruins stymie Wolfpack girls Friday

Reese Ramey hit a pair of 3-pointers and scored eight points for the Pack.

Glacier boys' rally falls short against Capital

Kyler Meredith converted a layup with 25 seconds left and Helena Capital held on to beat comeback-minded Glacier 51-49 Friday in a Western AA boys basketball game at the Wolf Den.

Late run pushes Helena past Flathead

Dylan Mosness scored 16 points and Helena High used a game-ending 9-0 run to defeat Flathead 56-48 in boys basketball Friday.

Something will have to give when Jacks, Griz battle again

For Montana coach Bobby Hauck, it’s a string of three losses in these games. Meanwhile the defending champion Jackrabbits are looking for their first-ever win over Montana.

Committee supports ballot initiative that could change Montana elections

A ballot initiative to change how elections are won in Montana to a majority vote system is a step closer to appearing on the ballot.

The Supreme Court will decide if Donald Trump can be kept off 2024 presidential ballots

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court said Friday it will decide whether former President Donald Trump can be kept off the ballot because of his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss, inserting the court squarely in the 2024 presidential campaign.

PHOTOS: FCS Media Day as Griz and Jackrabbits get ready for the championship

Scenes from FCS Media Day as the Montana Grizzlies and South Dakota State Jackrabbits prepare to play in the FCS Championship at Toyota Stadium in Friso, Texas, on Friday, Jan. 5.

House Republicans ready contempt of Congress charges against Hunter Biden over a subpoena he defied

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans plan to move forward next week with holding Hunter Biden in contempt of Congress after the president's son defied a congressional subpoena to appear for a private deposition last month.

Robert E. Stephens, 82

Born Jan. 16, 1941, Robert “Bob” Eugene Stephens, 82, passed on Jan. 2, 2024, in Kalispell, surrounded by his loving family.

Plans submitted for new VA clinic in Kalispell

A new Veterans Affairs clinic slated to open in Kalispell next year will be constructed on Old Reserve Drive near Glacier High School.

Legals for January, 5 2024

Kalispell hit-and-run victim seeks answers

An uninsured victim of a Dec. 7 hit-and-run in Kalispell is still coping with injuries as police continue to investigate the incident nearly a month later.

Thomas Snyder, 67

Thomas "Tom" Earl Snyder, 67 of Kalispell, passed away on Jan. 1, 2024, in Kalispell.

Drunk driver sentenced for fatal wreck near Somers

Flathead County District Court Judge Dan Wilson handed down Thursday a partially suspended 20-year sentence to the drunk driver who struck and killed a motorcyclist near Somers in 2022, citing the sincerity of his remorse and efforts to address his alcoholism, among other factors.

FHS business teacher named High School Educator of the Year

In addition to her teaching role, Caitlin Heuscher leads Flathead’s Brave Mentoring Program and represents Flathead as a DECA Board of Directors Officer.

Law roundup: ‘Nefarious’ man agrees to avoid car wash

A man described simply as acting “nefarious” sparked a call to the Columbia Falls Police Department. Employees of a local car wash reported the man after surveillance cameras captured him wandering around the property.

Flathead Electric Co-op set to hold trustee election

Potential candidates must be natural persons, members of the co-op, and must maintain primary residence within the district they seek to represent.

Whitefish skier visits down over holiday break

“Pray for snow.” Those three words are familiar to anyone who has lived in a ski town; you see them scrawled on dirty car windows or you hear them uttered at local watering holes.

Authorities seek information on missing Missoula woman

The Missoula Police Department is seeking assistance from the public in locating Eva Masin Prather, a 43-year-old resident who has been missing since the early hours of Saturday, Dec. 30.

Legals for January, 4 2024

Column: A memorable Texas trip is quite possible

Before there was a trip to Frisco, Texas, there were three voyages to Chattanooga, Tenn.

Wolfpack Theatre stages quirky comedic drama

The story balances moments of drama and comedy as it illustrates George and his wife, Mary’s unspoken love for each other as well as demonstrating how language can build entire worlds but, because of society’s inability to tame it, is often completely useless.

Kalispell city councilor sees signs for hope amid housing crunch

Kalispell City Councilor Ryan Hunter told his colleagues Tuesday he saw signs of success in addressing the region’s housing crunch as the body approved a multifamily, mixed-use residential project on Village Loop.

Suspect allegedly injured deputies during arrest

A 28-year-old faces multiple counts of assault on a peace officer after allegedly injuring a pair of Flathead County Sheriff's Office deputies during a New Year's Day arrest near Kalispe

The bold and skilled Canada Jay

Perisoreus canadensis was originally named Canada Jay, so it seems appropriate that after being Gray Jay from 1956-2018, the American Ornithological Society changed it back to Canada Jay.

Gfeller, Lady Griz close out Coyotes

MISSOULA — Carmen Gfeller scored 18 points and the Montana Lady Griz closed the game on a 19-2 run to beat South Dakota 74-61 Wednesday in the Big Sky-Summit Challenge.

'Nabucco' livestream planned in Whitefish as part of Metropolitan Opera Live in HD series

Giuseppe Verdi’s biblically inspired opera, “Nabucco,” will be shown Jan. 6 in Whitefish as part of the Metropolitan Opera Live in HD series.

Tonasket, Ronan top C-Falls boys Tuesday

RONAN — Ronan’s Marlo Tonasket scored 22 points Tuesday and the Chiefs made a six-point lead after three quarters stand up for a 60-56 boys basketball win over Columbia Falls.

Suspect in stabbing given suspended sentence

A 44-year-old accused of stabbing a man at an Antelope Trail home in 2022 received a suspended sentence in Flathead County District Court in November.

Marion man sentenced for high-speed chase

A Marion man accused of leading law enforcement on a chase through Kalispell and along Montana 35 in the fall of 2022 earned a trio of suspended sentences in October.

Letters to the editor Jan. 4

Letters to the editor Jan. 4

A tilting of the global balance of power

Europe has never been a monolith. It remains the same fractured, dysfunctional family it has been for 600 years.

Elevating Montana’s Native voices and experiences

Well, it only took a little more than 150 years, but it seems that Native voices in Montana are finally reaching the national stage.

Hockaday exhibit features submitted artwork

Open to the public through Feb. 24, this marks the 23rd year of this community favorite exhibition, bringing together the artwork of artist members.

Moody, Griz men overpower NDSU

FARGO, N.D. — Aanen Moody scored a career-high 36 points, Brandon Whitney added 17 and the Montana Grizzlies defeated North Dakota State 96-86 in men’s basketball in the Big Sky-Summit League Challenge.

FHS Theatre presents adventurous heartfelt story

When a squirrel is rescued from a vacuum cleaner by 10-year-old Flora she soon discovers he has been reborn as a superhero who can suddenly understand Flora, fly, and even write poetry.

Fence contractor facing theft charges in multiple cases

Prosecutors have brought two felony cases against a contractor accused of bilking county residents out of thousands of dollars for unfinished home improvement projects.

Donors have limited window to support schools and get dollar-for-dollar tax credits

The race begins for Montana public and private schools to secure a slice of $5 million in donations — and for donors to get dollar-for-dollar tax credits in return for supporting innovative education or scholarships.

Columbia Falls Community Choir begins rehearsals

Under the direction of Steven Holte, this choir will meet every Sunday at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Columbia Falls beginning on Jan. 7. Rehearsals begin at 2 p.m. and last until 4 p.m.

MSU women shut down Bison

The Montana State Bobcats defense held North Dakota State to just 26 percent shooting and forced 16 turnovers as they defeated the Bison 65-45 Wednesday at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse in women’s basketball in the Big Sky-Summit League Challenge.

In that Still Moment: DG House art exhibit opens at Hockaday — preview reception planned Jan. 11

An exhibit titled, In that Still Moment, featuring new work from Montana indigenous artist DG House, will be on display at the Hockaday Museum of Art.

Holidays bring spike in respiratory illnesses to Flathead County

Local health officials are reporting an increase in cases of flu, Covid-19 and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, over the holidays.

Phillips Gallery hosts Whitefish artist’s solo show

Phillips Gallery will host Whitefish artist Deborah Quynn’s solo show, The Trail of Life, featuring paintings inspired by her small farm.

Montana population growth slows

After years of new arrivals swelling Montana’s population and straining its housing supply, new data released Dec. 19 by the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that the volume of net migration into the state has declined.

Auditions set for dramatic comedy ‘Witch’

Auditions will be held Jan. 7 for Whitefish Whitefish Theatre Company’s production of “Witch.”

Multiple state capitols evacuated due to threats, but no dangerous items immediately found

Multiple state capitols received bomb threats Wednesday morning that led to brief evacuations or lockdowns as police investigated, but no evidence of explosives was found.

Whitefish hospital welcomes first baby of 2024

Logan Health Whitefish's Birth Center welcomed its first baby of 2024 on New Year's Day.

Survey shows support for WHS building expansion when not tied to athletic complex

Results from a recent poll suggest that 57% of voters would vote in favor of a bond measure that would expand the Whitefish High School building but not include a new athletic complex.

Legals for January, 3 2024

Flathead Valley man allegedly lit home on fire after argument

Authorities are holding Jason Jerald Andreaus Meyer in the county jail with bail set at $150,000 following the Dec. 20 structure fire.

States and Congress wrestle with cybersecurity after Iran attacks small town water utilities

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — The tiny Aliquippa water authority in western Pennsylvania was perhaps the least-suspecting victim of an international cyberattack.

Judge issues injunction against two housing bills passed by Montana Legislature

A Gallatin County District Court judge has temporarily stopped several bills passed by the 2023 Montana Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Greg Gianforte that aimed to address the affordable housing crisis in the Treasure State by allowing additional buildings in neighborhoods zoned for single-family.

Judges needed for The Yeti speech and debate tournament this weekend at Glacier High

Glacier High School will host The Yeti speech and debate tournament Friday and Saturday. The Yeti continues to offer exciting changes to the traditional tournament format.

Redefining ‘public schools’ in Montana

When visualizing a public school, many conjure an image of a traditional, neighborhood institution, similar from one place to another and run by the local school district.

Law roundup: Neighbor slaps unwelcome visitor

A woman reportedly went to a neighbor's and they told her to get off the property and then twisted her arm and slapped her.

Larry O'Connell, 86

Larry L. O'Connell, 86, passed away Dec. 28, 2023, at his home in Lower Valley.

Brodehl to serve as chair of county commission

Flathead County Commissioner Randy Brodehl has been voted chair of the three member commission.

Letters to the editor Jan. 3

Letters to the editor Jan. 3

Happy face history

Laws in several states have criminalized criticizing American history, even when that history contains criminal acts. It is sort of like putting a happy face on American history.

Girls Hoops: Borgen, Wildkats quell Ronan comeback

RONAN — Taryn Borgen scored 17 points for Columbia Falls, which withstood a second-half comeback by the Ronan Maidens for a 44-42 Northwest A girls basketball win Tuesday.

Trump appeals Maine ruling barring him from ballot under the Constitution's insurrection clause

PORTLAND, Maine (AP) — Former President Donald Trump on Tuesday appealed a ruling by Maine's Democratic secretary of state barring him from the ballot over his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. He was expected to also ask the U.S. Supreme Court to rule on his eligibility to return to the presidency in a related Colorado case.

US women are stocking up on abortion pills, especially when there is news about restrictions

Thousands of women stocked up on abortion pills just in case they needed them, new research shows, with demand peaking in the past couple years at times when it looked like the medications might become harder to get.

Funding for mental health system revamp offers hope, but officials say solutions will take time

Barbara Hadley has shared her story at multiple community meetings on behavioral health in Northwest Montana, detailing her struggle to help a relative undergoing a severe mental health crisis — one that led to his eventual arrest and placement in county jail.

Law roundup: Pre-dawn preachers spread the word

Using a megaphone to amplify their message, a group of people were shouting Bible verses at a park in Kalispell. The public preaching occurred around 5 a.m., which the reporting party found quite annoying.

Commemorating 50 years of the Endangered Species Act

On Dec. 28, 1973, President Richard Nixon stated: “Nothing is more priceless and more worthy of preservation than the rich array of animal life with which our country has been blessed…and it forms a vital part of the heritage we all share as Americans [and] which we hold in trust to countless future generations of our fellow citizens.”

Legals for January, 2 2024

Letters to the editor Jan. 2

Letters to the editor Jan. 2

Kalispell's December snowfall near all-time low

As Northwest Montana caps one of its driest Decembers on record, a return to winter weather is within sight.

Kalispell's Patrick O'Connell records first tackle in NFL

SEATTLE — Former Glacier High and Montana Grizzlies football star Patrick O’Connell made a big splash on his birthday Sunday by making his first NFL tackle for the Seattle Seahawks, against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Lumen Field.

Law roundup: Mom seeks advice about tot’s sticky fingers

A concerned mother went to the Kalispell Police Department wanting to speak to an officer about her 4-year-old’s shoplifting habit. The parent said the child was “constantly shoplifting.”

Letters to the editor Jan. 1

Letters to the editor Jan. 1

Kalispell City Council poised to green-light Village Loop multi-family building

Kalispell City Council is expected Tuesday to vote on a conditional use permit for new multi-family residential units on Village Loop.

Kalispell postal workers put a stamp on a long-lived career

The end of 2023 marked 40 years of marriage and 35 years of service for them with the United States Postal Service, a monumental anniversary, one that both Oxfords plan to retire with.

Whitefish plans fee for properties that join city

Whitefish City Council on Tuesday will consider establishing a surcharge for properties to annex into the city.