Ellington

Searchers find missing kayaker's body in Kootenai River

The search for a woman missing in the Kootenai River near Libby came to a sad ending Sunday morning.

Sluggers down Badrock to move on to championship

After allowing five runs in the top of the first, the Kalispell Sluggers battled back for an 11-7 victory Saturday over Badrock 15u to advance to the championship game of the Badrock Invitational.

Flathead Watercooler

Business happenings

Law roundup: Wine time sends woman on a crying jag

An employee asked the Columbia Falls Police Department to check on and move along a drunk woman lying on the concrete in front of the doors of the establishment, crying about her husband.

Legals for June, 30 2024

Jean Ann Sedivy, 81

Jean Ann Sedivy, 81 of Columbia Falls, passed peacefully on June 19, 2024.

Carol Lynn Hogan, 74

Carol Lynn Hogan, 74 of Kalispell, passed away on June 14, 2024, with her husband beside her, and is in the arms of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

John Redfield, 65

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of John Redfield, 65, who left us on June 19, 2024.

PHOTOS: Two Medicine Magic

Photos from Two Medicine after reserving a last-minute campsite at Two Medicine Campground in Glacier National Park on Sunday, June 23.

Yes, build in my backyard

Gen Z is too young to remember the “Rent is Too Damn High Party” from 2005. However, they would likely appreciate the spirit of the movement.

Montana lawmakers offer mixed responses to Louisiana law requiring Ten Commandments in schools

Montana’s Republican congressional delegation hesitated last week to follow Louisiana in requiring public schools to affix the Ten Commandments in classrooms even as former President Donald Trump praised the move.

Roger Wayne Siblerud, 84

Roger Wayne Siblerud, 84, passed peacefully on June 15, 2024, the day before Father's Day on the same day, many years later as his beloved son Patrick Siblerud passed.

Wrangle up some seats – County fairgrounds grandstands expected to open after repairs

Fairgoers should be able to grab a seat at the rodeo or concerts during the Northwest Montana Fair in August after an analysis showed the grandstands needing immediate repairs are safe.

Child Development Center closes after loss of state contract

The Child Development Center closed its locations in Missoula and Kalispell last week following the loss of a five-year state contract that funded early intervention services.

Judicial activism or judicial restraint?

Some may consider it mere coincidence that over the past 40 years the Montana Supreme Court has struck down almost every conservative ballot measure (referenda and initiatives) that has come before it, while upholding every liberal one – including seven examples of such conduct in the past 10 years alone.

Flathead County Library Board kicks logo design back to committee

Bowing to repeated calls for a more professional design for a future logo, the Flathead County Library Board opted Thursday to go back to the drawing board.

Jennifer Ann St. John, 48

On May 19, 1976, God blessed our family with an incredible gift. Jennifer Ann St. John was born to Homer and Barbara St. John in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Floyd Larry, 83, and Julie Ann Creekmore, 80

Floyd Larry Creekmore (Larry) passed away Dec. 27, 2023, in Kalispell at the age of 83. Julie Ann, his loving wife, and soul mate of 57 years, passed away at the age of 80, less than four months later, on April 15 at their home on Echo Lake.

Vicki Lynn Zastrow, 69

Vicki Lynn Zastrow, 69 of Columbia Falls, passed away on June 13, 2024.

Clarice Harrison, 95

Clarice E. Harrison, 95, passed away on Nov. 15, 2023.

Don’t quit your daydreaming job

At the University of Montana in the late 1970s, Pete Fromm admits he wasn’t a great student. Consumed by the mountain man stories he’d absorbed as a youth, he much preferred adventure and daydreaming.

There is a way for Montana residential property taxes to go down

The upcoming property tax year could be a little easier on homeowners and renters than last year.

Goats of Glacier offers chance to spend time with the animals

The working farm is a hands-on experience for locals and tourists to learn about where food comes from, try out daily chores like milking and brushing the animals, and pet farm animals for potentially the first time.

Search crews scour Kootenai River for missing kayaker

Search teams continued to look Saturday for a missing woman who disappeared while kayaking the Kootenai River in Northwest Montana earlier in the week.

Keeping Score: Momentum builds for Range Riders

In this episode of the Keeping Score podcast, Josh Amick recaps the Range Riders' eventful week against the Great Falls Voyagers.

News Now: This week's Northwest Montana headlines

Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman goes over some of the week’s biggest headlines.

PHOTOS: Badrock Invitational at Glacier Bank Park

Action from the inaugural Badrock Invitational baseball tournament hosted at Glacier Bank Park, the home of the Glacier Range Riders, in Kalispell from June 27-30.

Badrock U15 tops B Loggers, 17-5

Logan Stewart hit two inside-the-park home runs, Ashtyn Mintz hit another and the Badrock Baseball U15 squad scored a 17-5 win over the Libby B Loggers Thursday at the inaugural Badrock Invitational baseball tournament at Glacier Bank Park.

Scientist unlocks mystery of nutrient surge in Lake McDonald

In 2018 the water quality in Glacier National Park’s Lake McDonald had scientists concerned.

Badrock U15 bests Mission Valley

Logan Stewart hit a solo home run, a two-run single and had four runs batted in as the host Badrock U15 team beat Mission Valley 14-4 Friday at the Badrock Invitatinal baseball tournament Friday at Glacier Bank Park.

Supreme Court allows cities to enforce bans on homeless people sleeping outside

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court decided on Friday that cities can enforce bans on homeless people sleeping outdoors, even in West Coast areas where shelter space is lacking.

A halting Biden tries to confront Trump at debate but sparks Democratic anxiety about his candidacy

A raspy and sometimes halting President Joe Biden tried repeatedly to confront Donald Trump in their first debate ahead of the November election, as his Republican rival countered Biden's criticism by leaning into falsehoods about the economy, illegal immigration and his role in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.

Alan 'Al' Brice Alstad, 63

Alan "Al" Alstad, 63 of Kalispell, passed away on May 5, 2024, due to unexpected complications following a dirt bike accident.

County preliminary budget keeps property taxes flat

Flathead County commissioners on Thursday approved a preliminary budget for fiscal year 2025 that keeps county taxes even.

Jeff Thompson garners National Coach of the Year

A trip to Bismarck, North Dakota, may not be on everyone’s bucket list, but the National High School Athletic Coaches Association was having its annual convention there and Flathead wrestling coach Jeff Thompson was giving a presentation.

Briefs: UM hires softball coach; Whitefish Lake aces

Stef Ewing, previously the head coach at NCAA Division II Cal State San Marcos, was announced as the third softball coach in University of Montana history Thursday.

Whitefish School District outlines academic and athletic bond requests

Over the last decade the Whitefish School District has grown by 2.17% while Whitefish High School has grown by 2.74%. The 2023-24 school year was no exception to the trend.

Kalispell native serves as a member of U.S. Navy’s submarine force

Senior Chief Petty Officer Nathaniel Faerber, a native of Kalispell serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Trident Training Facility (TTF) Bangor at Naval Base Kitsap, homeport of West Coast ballistic-missile and guided-missile submarines. Faerber graduated from Flathead High School in 2000.

Cynthia 'Cindy' Louise Long, 70

Cynthia Louise Long, 70, passed away peacefully at home on June 25, 2024, and began her journey with Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

Larry Bailey, 74

Larry M. Bailey, 74, of Loris, South Carolina, took on the next great adventure on Wednesday, Jun 12, 2024.

Law roundup: Beware of online strangers asking for money

The rapid souring of an online relationship left a resident turning to the Kalispell Police Department for help. They told officers that they met a woman online and had sent them money, but now she was demanding more cash.

Ronald 'Ron' Jerome Alstad, 65

Ronald "Ron" Alstad, 65, passed away at home Aug. 27, 2022, after a short battle with bladder cancer.

Logan Health Children’s celebrates fifth anniversary

Logan Health Children’s is hosting a celebration on July 1 to mark the fifth anniversary of the hospital’s opening.

Legals for June, 28 2024

Grizzlies, Zags to have soccer exhibition in C-Falls

NCAA Division I soccer is coming to Columbia Falls, in the form of an women’s exhibition match between Montana and Gonzaga on Aug. 11 at Flip Darling Field.

Riders held to 4 hits in Wednesday loss

MISSOULA – The Range Riders bats were stifled for only four hits in a 5-3 loss against the Missoula PaddleHeads at Allegiance Stadium on Wednesday night.

Authorities in Lincoln County searching Kootenai River for missing woman

Authorities in Lincoln County are searching the Kootenai River for a missing kayaker.

Fugitive from North Carolina dies while fleeing Sheriff’s deputies

Authorities say they pulled the body of a North Carolina fugitive wanted on multiple felony charges from the Flathead River near the Blankenship Bridge earlier this month.

Multiple motor vehicle accidents snarl traffic in Glacier National Park

Multiple motor vehicle accidents in Glacier National Park late Wednesday afternoon led to congestion and the closure of Going-to-the-Sun Road to traffic, officials said.

Maui officials highlight steps toward rebuilding as 1-year mark of deadly wildfire approaches

LAHAINA, Hawaii (AP) — Nearly a year after wind-whipped flames raced through Kim Ball's Hawaii community, the empty lot where his house once stood is a symbol of some of the progress being made toward rebuilding after the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than century destroyed thousands of homes and killed 102 people in Lahaina.

The Supreme Court allows emergency abortions in Idaho for now in a limited ruling

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court cleared the way Thursday for Idaho hospitals to provide emergency abortions for now in a procedural ruling that left key questions unanswered and could mean the issue ends up before the conservative-majority court again soon.

Housing the rich in one town, the workers in another

I live in Victor, Idaho — one of Jackson, Wyoming’s, bedroom communities. Every day, roughly 3,400 Idaho residents drive over Teton Pass to work in Jackson. Only about 11,000 of us live on this side of the pass—2,000 in Victor—so commuters make up a significant portion of our population.

Letters to the editor June 27

Letters to the editor June 27

Kalispell Public Schools gets grant to help homeless students

Kalispell Public Schools is the recipient of a $98,000 grant to identify and help homeless students stay on track in their education.

Flathead County nets $3.7M in federal disbursement

Flathead County will take in $3.77 million in federal payments this year under a program that compensates local governments for nontaxable federal land.

Law roundup: Thief leaves a paper trail behind

Someone reportedly broke into a truck and stole a wallet containing credit cards and around $180 cash, dropping some of the bills on the floor.

Innovators think outside of the box

We have not met yet, but we will, as we are both candidates for Montana Senate District 3.

Hockaday awards visual arts scholarship to Browning graduate

Browning High School graduate Adam Still Smoking has been awarded the Mark D. Norley Memorial Scholarship for Visual Arts by the Hockaday Museum of Art.

Steven Duane Swanberg, 72

Steven Duane Swanberg, 72, biked off over hills and mountains to Heaven on June 6, 2024, at the Beehive in Kalispell following a battle with Alzheimer's.

Beach Boys Tribute Concert to bring fun, fun, fun to Whitefish

The second annual Whitefish Summer Concert Series kicks off with timeless songs about surfing, cruising, dancing and dreaming performed by The Beach Boys Tribute Concert band.

GOP, Dems see positives in latest Senate race polling

Republicans in Montana’s key races are polling above their Democratic candidates with the exception of conservative political newcomer Tim Sheehy, who remains neck-and-neck with three-term Democratic Sen. Jon Tester.

Classic boats cruise on Whitefish Lake this weekend

Now in its 12th year, the premier classic boat show is presented by The Big Sky Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society and hosted by The Lodge at Whitefish Lake.

Legals for June, 27 2024

Kirtley's 3 HRs, 10 RBIs not enough in Riders loss

Christian Kirtley more than did his part.

Legion: After opening win, AA Lakers drop 2 to Royals

BILLINGS — Just as it was late Tuesday, the sixth inning was tough on the Kalispell AA Lakers Wednesday, who saw the Billings Royals use a four-run rally to push past the Lakers 7-4 in Legion baseball.

Renowned chef Andy Blanton to lead FVCC’s Culinary Institute

Acclaimed local chef Andy Blanton has been selected to lead Flathead Valley Community College’s Culinary Institute of Montana.

Judge strikes down Montana law defining sex as only male or female for procedural reasons

MISSOULA (AP) — A judge on Tuesday struck down a Montana law that defined "sex" in state law as only male or female, finding that it was unconstitutional.

Whitefish physician charged in multi-million-dollar Medicare billing fraud case

A Whitefish physician was charged Monday by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Montana with conspiracy to commit wire fraud for allegedly helping facilitate about $39 million in fraudulent billing of Medicare and other federal benefits programs during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Strong finish pushes AA Lakers past Royals

BILLINGS — Ostyn Brennan picked up two doubles and drove in a pair of runs as the Kalispell AA Lakers defeated the Billings Royals 7-3 Wednesday, in the first game of a Legion doubleheader.

Don ‘K’ Subaru donates blankets to Logan Health

Don “K” Subaru recently donated 80 warm lap blankets to Logan Health for children undergoing infusion therapy as part of cancer treatment.

Dave Germann, 70

Dave Germann, 70, died unexpectantly on June 20, 2024 at his home in Kalispell.

Ryan Sandvig, 68

Ryan Hardy Sandvig, 68, of Spokane, Washington and Marion, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, June 19, 2024, in Lincoln County, Washington.

Steven Duane Swanberg, 72

Steven Duane Swanberg, 72, biked off over hills and mountains to Heaven on June 6, 2024, at the Beehive in Kalispell following a battle with Alzheimer's.

Libby man dies of injuries in traffic accident

A Libby man who was involved in a traffic accident on June 8 has died.

Joyce 'Peach' Graeff, 81

Compassionate and dedicated servant and friend to the community of Bigfork, Peach from Bigfork was called to her eternal home on May 24, 2024; her room was ready.

Police Chief Clint Peters named interim Columbia Falls city manager

A familiar face in city government will run the day-to-day operations of Columbia Falls – at least for a little while.

Canadian environmentalists question plan to sell coal mines above Lake Koocanusa

A pair of Canadian environmental organizations have asked Canadian regulators to consider several issues that could throw a wrench in a major coal mine sale north of the Montana border. The request tees up a decision that will have implications for Lake Koocanusa, a boundary-spanning waterway that a coal mining operation in British Columbia has polluted for decades.

Glacier High School grads receive Montana seal of Biliteracy

Twenty recent Glacier High School graduates received the Montana Gold Seal of Biliteracy during their senior year, recognizing their proficiency in two or more languages.

Twins offense powers sweep of Libby

Jake McIntyre homered in the first game and Nolan Amerman hit a grand slam in the second as the Glacier Twins swept a Class A Legion doubleheader from Libby Tuesday, 19-3 and 15-2.

Construction on the Bigfork branch of Flathead County Libraries wraps up

Flathead County Library staff stepped foot inside the newly finished Bigfork branch for the first time last week, marveling at the transformation the space has gone through since construction began last fall.

Yvonne Hill, 61

Yvonne Annette Hill, 61, a mother, sister and friend passed away at her home on April 21, 2024.

Legals for June, 26 2024

Law roundup: Thieves take off with Kalispell man's arsenal

A man reportedly grabbed his gun when he heard glass breaking and saw two guys wearing hoodies in his truck and yelled at them, so they took off with a stolen AR-15 and two stolen .22 rifles.

Grass fire threatened homes in Evergreen

Firefighters on Monday spared an Evergreen home from an advancing grass fire in Lions Park, officials said.

Park officials identify woman who drowned near St. Mary Falls

Authorities on Tuesday identified the woman who drowned near St. Mary Falls on the east side of Glacier National Park as 26-year-old Gillian Tones of North Apollo, Pennsylvania.

2 inmates charged with attempted murder after attack on Montana jail guards

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Two Montana inmates were charged with attempted murder Tuesday after allegedly using makeshift weapons to attack corrections officers in a county jail, sending one of the officers to the hospital with stab wounds to the head.

US surgeon general declares gun violence a public health emergency

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. surgeon general on Tuesday declared gun violence a public health crisis, driven by the fast-growing number of injuries and deaths involving firearms in the country.

Armed shoplifting suspect picks up robbery charge

Held in the county jail with bail set at $50,000, Dominic Prichard is expected to appear in Flathead County District Court before Judge Danni Coffman on June 26 for his arraignment on one count of robbery.

Abortion rights group says it has signatures to qualify initiative for ballot

Despite legal delays and a persistent opposition movement, organizers of an initiative to enshrine a right to abortion in the Montana Constitution say they have gathered enough signatures to put the proposal on the November ballot.

Letters to the editor June 25

Letters to the editor June 25

Law roundup: For one man, it’s never like riding a bike

A 6-foot-tall man attempting to ride a bicycle through the area might want to look into a less exasperating form of exercise when he reportedly kept crashing and yelling “die” and “other curse words," according to an onlooker who reported his churlishness to the Kalispell Police Department.

Misleading rhetoric undermines nonprofit sector

As the executive director of the Montana Nonprofit Association, a membership association that supports more than 850 organization across the state, I’m dismayed by multiple recent incidents of political leaders and influencers casting local public charities across Montana as “dark money” groups and as organizations at the center of broader political flashpoints.

Legals for June, 25 2024

Darel Hansen, 85

Darel Michael Hansen, 85 of Kalispell, passed away Friday, March 8, 2024, at Logan Health in Kalispell.

Mass shootings across the US mar the first weekend of summer

The first weekend of summer brought a tragic yet familiar pattern for American cities wracked by gun violence as mass shootings left dozens dead or wounded at a party in Alabama, an entertainment district in Ohio and a grocery in Arkansas.

Woman drowns after falling near St. Mary Falls in Glacier National Park

A 26-year-old Pennsylvania woman drowned after falling into the water above St. Mary Falls on the east side of Glacier National Park on Sunday afternoon, officials said.

Supreme Court will take up state bans on gender-affirming care for minors

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Monday jumped into the fight over transgender rights, agreeing to hear an appeal from the Biden administration seeking to block state bans on gender-affirming care.

Netanyahu says he won't agree to a deal that ends the war in Gaza, testing the latest truce proposal

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP) — The viability of a U.S.-backed proposal to wind down the 8-month-long war in Gaza was cast into doubt on Monday after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would only be willing to agree to a "partial" cease-fire deal that would not end the war, comments that sparked an uproar from families of hostages held by Hamas.

Son of immigrant calls for acceptance of those looking for a better life

Around the time of World War I, Ken Yachechak’s father immigrated from Russia to America — undocumented. His mom was born in West Virginia after her family came from Lithuania through Ellis Island.

Letters to the editor June 24

Letters to the editor June 24

Legals for June, 24 2024

Law roundup: Shoplifter allays fear with knife

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report that a man allegedly “popped open” a knife when employees tried to stop him from shoplifting in the parking lot and said, “Don’t worry, I have a knife.”

Legion Roundup: AA Lakers leave Palouse with victory

PULLMAN, Wash. — Michael Owens’ two-run double capped a four-run, seventh-inning outburst by the Kalispell AA Lakers, who put away the Lewis-Clark Twins 9-4 in their Palouse Tournament finale Saturday.

Wolfpack football camps begin Monday

The Wolfpack football camps are up on us, starting Monday and running through Wednesday at Glacier High School.

Inter Lake named Montana's best daily newspaper

The Daily Inter Lake was named the best daily newspaper in the state Saturday at the Montana Newspaper Association's 139th annual convention and awards banquet in Kalispell.

Letters to the editor June 23

Letters to the editor June 23

State Republicans drawing up immigration policy ahead of 2025 legislative session

Montana Republicans say they will push legislation next year to police immigrants in the country illegally, following in the footsteps of GOP-led states like Texas and Iowa.

Legals for June, 23 2024

Bottoms Up: UM course teaches students beer brewing

The students, all enrolled in the UM’s Brewing Science program, had already spent hours in the classroom learning about the nitty gritty of beer making and on this morning were diving into their end-of-semester project — brewing 15 barrels or so of a New Zealand-style IPA.

William 'Bill' Secord, 81

William "Bill" "Uncie" Secord, was born to Albert Napoleon and Pearl McCauley Secord in Whitefish on Feb. 27, 1943, and passed away June 11, 2024, in Cheney, Washington.

A massive flood struck the Flathead Valley 60 years ago

Sixty years ago the waters rose and rose until they became the largest flood in Flathead County’s recorded history.

Law roundup: Woman reported for jogging dangerously

Someone called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report a woman for purportedly “jogging dangerously” on the shoulder of the road, just beyond the white line, in Kalispell.

Kenneth L. Anderson, 86

We are sad to announce that Kenneth L. Anderson, 86, took his last breath on June 9, 2024.

Judith 'Judy' Johnson Halama, 77

Judith "Judy" Johnson Halama, 77 of Whitefish, passed away June 10, 2024.

Canal siphon failures not a matter of if, but when

Along with the torrent of gushing water that flooded Babb due to catastrophic siphon eruptions on the St. Mary Canal last week will be serious economic consequences for north-central Montana's agricultural community whose livelihood is reliant on this water system.

Averill Hospitality plans hotel in Sandpoint

The project is expected to be a $70 million, 150-room full-service resort.

Gianforte raised your property taxes and gave himself a tax cut

Gov. Greg Gianforte raised your property taxes. And he did it deliberately, in order to give the wealthy and corporations huge tax cuts. That’s a simple truth that our governor doesn’t want you to hear, but it’s important for all Montanans to understand as we decide whether Gianforte deserves a second term.

Montana energy isn’t ready for forced EVs

Last month, the Biden administration published their finalized tailpipe emissions rule, an electric vehicle (EV) mandate which will upend the daily lives of Montanans. The EPA’s new emissions rule calls for EVs to account for 56% of all cars by 2032, with two-thirds of all cars being electric or hybrid.

Flathead Watercooler

Happenings and trainings related to business

Sheehy is a threat to Montanans’ reproductive rights

Two years ago, the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, gutting protections for reproductive health care that had been in place for women and doctors for nearly 50 years.

Whitefish's Pin and Cue marks four decades of entertainment

The Pin and Cue has been part of the Whitefish community since 1984, rallying spirits and providing a gathering place for all ages

Tait Humble, 46

Tait William Humble, 46, passed away June 11, 2024, at his home in Kalispell.

PHOTOS: Lemonade Day Flathead 2024

Children serve up cups of sweet lemonade varieties and other treats as they operate their own lemonade stands during the Lemonade Day Flathead entrepreneurial program on Saturday, June 22.

Full length of Glacier's Sun Road opens for summer

The full length of Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park opened Saturday morning for the summer season.

Range Riders win fourth straight

For the fourth straight game, the Glacier Range Riders’ starting pitchers shut down the Great Falls Voyagers lineup in a 7-3 win at Glacier Bank Park.

A Lakers defeat Post 4, fall to Idaho Prime

HELENA — Beau McEwen and Liam Rech drove in two runs each as the Kalispell A Lakers defeated the Post 4 Rebels 9-5 at the Cloninger Classic Friday.

North Idaho rallies past Mission Valley at Big Bucks tourney

Libby wins Thursday, falls Friday

LIBBY — North Idaho scored eight runs over the final two innings to take a 12-8 victory over the Mission Valley Mariners Friday at the Big Bucks Tournament.

Big inning downs AA Lakers in Pullman

PULLMAN, Washington — Luke Nikunen picked up two hits and threw 4 1-3 innings on the mound, but Reality Sports defeated the Kalispell Lakers 7-3 Friday at the WSU tournament.

Derosa, West help Glacier Twins over Medicine Hat

MEDICINE HAT, Alberta — Trenton Derosa and Amerman West combined to hold Medicine Hat to one hit as the Glacier Twins picked up an 11-0 victory to start their four game Canadian road trip.

Glendive Chief of Police facing three felonies for illegal deer hunting, tampering with witnesses

Jeremy L. Swisher, the Glendive chief of police, is facing three felony charges for hunting on Montana tribal lands without a license and tampering with witnesses, after the Montana Attorney General’s Office say he made up a story about hunting, then changed it, urging other law enforcement officers to lie to investigators.

The Supreme Court upholds a gun control law intended to protect domestic violence victims

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Friday upheld a federal gun control law that is intended to protect victims of domestic violence.

Legals for June, 21 2024

EMS Night at Glacier Range Riders game Friday

Logan Health will host EMS Night at the Glacier Range Riders baseball game on Friday, June 21.

Column: Bigfork's Benn bids farewell to coaching

Jim Benn has called his last play for the Bigfork Football Vikings, and his departure from the Montana coaching ranks was just the way he wanted it: quiet.

Organization raises funds to assist veteran with home upgrades

The nonprofit is holding a 4 Miles to Freedom fun run on July 6 at Happy’s Inn west of Kalispell. All the proceeds go toward the Childs family.

CASA volunteers sworn in

Each will work as a Court Appointed Special Advocate/ Guardian ad Litem for abused and neglected children in the Flathead County foster care system.

Flathead Electric Co-op members surpass $5 million mark in giving to Roundup for Safety

In 1997, Flathead Electric Cooperative doubled down on its guiding business principle of “concern for community” and launched a program to improve safety in its service area. The co-op dubbed it Roundup for Safety and appointed a board to get the program off the ground.

Billings Blue Jays down A Lakers at Cloninger Classic

HELENA — Six different Billings hitters drive in two runs each as the Blue Jays defeated the Kalispell A Lakers 12-3 at the Cloninger Classic Thursday.

Teacher retention, wages hot topics at meeting of state education officials

Discussing likely areas for future policy improvement in Montana’s K-12 school system at a meeting in the state Capitol Monday, officials with the Office of Public Instruction highlighted teacher retention as a continued challenge across the state, noting that Montana public schools lost 2,039 educators to attrition during the 2021-22 academic year.

‘Glacier’s Reds’ explores history of park’s iconic tour bus

‘Glacier’s Reds’ explores history of park’s iconic tour bus

Glacier Twins split doubleheader with Missoula

MISSOULA — Nolan Amerman picked up an inside-the-park home run for the Glacier Twins in an 11-8 win against Missoula Wednesday.

Law roundup: Caller claims Spanish speaking men discussed crimes

Officers later determined that the men were just doing laundry.

Biden administration old growth forest proposal doesn't ban logging, but still angers industry

The Biden administration is advancing its plan to restrict logging within old growth forests that are increasingly threatened by climate change, with exceptions that include cutting trees to make forests less susceptible to wildfires, according to a U.S. government analysis obtained by The Associated Press.

Irrigators along Hi-Line likely to close season early due to St. Mary breach

The Milk River Project, which is part of a system that delivers drinking water to 18,000 people and more than 700 farms, will shut down early this year following the breach of 110-year-old pipes near Baab.

Idaho wildlife officials say it misidentified grizzly bear that was later killed

Hunter had sent video of bear to officials before shooting it

Fish and Game regrets the mistake made by its staff, the undue stress the situation caused for the hunter and the loss of the grizzly bear. Fish and Game is reviewing its staff’s part in the incident as a personnel matter.

Hockaday celebrates two decades of artist wilderness program with exhibition

Artist Wilderness Connection a collaborative artist-in-residence program celebrates its 20th anniversary and the 57 past participants with a special exhibit opening June 28.

Free shuttle service launched in Bigfork following bridge's closure

After the closure of the Bigfork's Bridge Street Bridge, several local businesses began to think about a shuttle service. With the help of the Bigfork Area Chamber of Commerce’s Fund the Fork initiative, a six-seat electric Ryd shuttle launched this month.

Showcase of entertainment set for Wachholz College Center’s 2024-25 lineup

A slate of concerts that rock, speakers who inspire and a showcase of other dance, theater comedy and family entertainment is coming to the Wachholz College Center this year.

Law roundup: Drunk woman pulls into driveway trying to avoid DUI

A drunk driver allegedly pulled into a stranger’s driveway, telling the resident who came outside asking her what she was doing that she was trying to avoid being pulled over by a Columbia Falls Police Department cruiser reportedly following her.

Todd to throw at Olympic Trials Friday

University of Montana javelin thrower Evan Todd, a Glacier High graduate, is heading back to Eugene, Oregon this week for the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials at Hayward Field.

Letters to the editor June 20

Letters to the editor June 20

Support the Freedom to Vote Act

Having proudly served as former Secretaries of State in Montana, we understand how important democracy is to the people of our state. It’s not a matter of what side of the aisle you stand on – it’s a matter of what you value.

Tribes receive $7.7 million from USDA for meat-processing plant

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are among eight tribal nations that recently received an Indigenous Animals Harvesting and Meat Processing Grant through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Legals for June, 20 2024

You go to your church, I’ll go to mine

A few years ago I was talking with a man who raised an interesting question; “There’s only one God, why do we need so many different churches?”

Wildflower walkers: Spencer Mountain in full bloom

Father’s Day morning began with a fart joke. “Happy Farters ... I mean Father’s Day” the card my three daughters gave me read. “You’re a gassy ... I mean classy guy.”

Glacier Symphony hosts Festival Amadeus performances

The concerts are held at McClaren Hall inside the Wachholz College Center at Flathead Valley Community College. Both begin at 7:30 p.m.

Flathead Food Truck Festival returns with more ways to try new menus

The food truck festival is June 21 from 3 to 9 p.m. and June 22 from noon to 9 p.m.

Missoula district court hear arguments on case defining sex

Defining “sex” makes some people think back on the President Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky scandal — so said lawyer Kyle Gray on Tuesday in Missoula County District Court.

Polson's Milton, Maki 3rd at State Juniors golf

POLSON — Playing in vastly improved conditions, Frenchtown’s Katie Lewis and Billings’ Tye Boone took medalist honors at the 58th Montana State Juniors golf championship that concluded Wednesday at Polson Bay Golf Course.

Lake County petitions White House to remedy Flathead Lake's water woes

Lake County commissioners sent a letter to President Joe Biden June 6, asking him to intercede “on behalf of two counties and affected U.S. citizens visiting this area” and to make compensation for “depredations” by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, mostly pertaining to the low water level in Flathead Lake last summer.

Film featuring wildlife management in Scottish Highlands premieres in Whitefish

The film “The Last Keeper” has been recognized by more than 15 international film festivals for its merits and received overwhelming support from thousands of viewers through a spring film tour in the U.K., including a viewing by the Scottish parliament.

Bio Station awarded $9.5 Million for ocean climate change science

FLATHEAD LAKE – A new research project led by the University of Montana’s Flathead Lake Biological Station expands the impact of the station’s renowned expertise from mountain watersheds to ocean depths.

Residents still skeptical of CFAC cleanup after tour

Busloads of people toured the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. Superfund site on June 12 as the company and government officials explained how a slurry wall containment system might work at the site.

Finalists for the High Plains Book Awards diverse group

All nominated works — 209 of them this year — were read and evaluated by community readers. Winners in each category will be determined by a judging panel of experts, educators, and published writers with connections to the High Plains region.

Jeremiah 'Jerry' J. Dougherty, 65

Jeremiah "Jerry" Joseph Dougherty Sr., 65, passed away on June 10, 2024, at his home in Whitefish with his family by his side.

Law roundup: ‘Man’ taken for a burglar in prank

A woman reportedly saw a man wearing a baseball cap under the covers in her bed and fled in a panic.

Dinesen walks it off for the Range Riders

In a game featuring great pitching by both teams, the game wasn’t decided until a wild bottom of the ninth featuring balks, intentional walks and walk-offs, lead to a Range Riders win over the Voyagers.

JoAnn Gloria Holton, 93

JoAnn Gloria Holton, 93 of Columbia Falls, passed away on June 14, 2024.

FEC Roundup for Safety awards grants

The Flathead Electric Cooperative’s Roundup for Safety program has approved $18,500 in grants supporting community safety projects proposed by local nonprofits.

Polson's Milton takes lead at State Juniors golf

POLSON – It was rainy but it was also Maxwell Milton’s home course, and the Polson golfer leads the boys section of the 58 th Montana State Juniors golf championship after Tuesday’s second round.

State seeks to appeal decision on voting laws to Supreme Court

The State of Montana wants the U.S. Supreme Court to hear an appeal of the Montana Supreme Court’s March decision striking down four voting laws passed by the 2021 Legislature, and a filing last week shows the state plans to advance portions of the controversial “independent state legislature theory” that has mostly already been rejected by the nation’s high court.

Troy man plans to appeal sentence for killing grizzly

A Troy man who pleaded guilty to charges related to the killing of a grizzly bear and was sentenced last week said he plans to appeal.

Humphrey’s leadership leaves lasting mark on UM, statewide health care

As University of Montana’s College of Health Dean Reed Humphrey wraps up his decades-long run at the helm of UM’s fastest-growing college, he can finally take a step back and reflect on the 10 years of growth, innovation and impact that defines his time leading the college.

The Farm Table makes up made-from-scratch meals

The Farm Table, which offers made-from-scratch meals, uses as many local and organic ingredients as possible.

Legals for June, 19 2024

Flathead Valley man allegedly fired gun during argument over water pump

Donald James Hanson, 73, is expected to appear before Judge Dan Wilson in Flathead County District Court on July 18 for his arraignment on the felony charge.

Wolfpack cleans up at 77th Shrine Game

The Glacier Wolfpack made an impact on the 77th East-West Shrine Game at Daylis Stadium in Billings Saturday night. As in three Most Valuable Player awards.

St. Mary Canal failure stirs agriculture, ecological concerns

The catastrophic failure of two siphons on the St. Mary Canal near Babb could create a ripple effect on Montana's agriculture industry this summer, officials warned Tuesday.

U.S. government details in report how Northwest dams devastated the region's Native tribes

The U.S. government on Tuesday acknowledged for the first time the harms that the construction and operation of dams on the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest have caused Native American tribes.

Half a million immigrants could eventually get US citizenship under a new plan from Biden

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden is taking an expansive election year step to offer relief to potentially hundreds of thousands of immigrants without legal status in the U.S., aiming to balance his own aggressive crackdown on the southern border earlier this month that enraged advocates and many Democratic lawmakers.

New York's top court declines to hear Trump's appeal of gag order in hush money case

NEW YORK (AP) — New York's top court on Tuesday declined to hear Donald Trump's gag order appeal in his hush money case, leaving the restrictions in place following his felony conviction last month. The Court of Appeals found that the order does not raise "substantial" constitutional issues that would warrant an immediate intervention.

State plans to repave Foys Lake Road

The Montana Department of Transportation plans to resurface about 9.2 miles of Foys Lake Road southwest of Kalispell.

Baserunning blunders prove costly in Range Riders loss

KALISPELL – In a game featuring strong pitching from both teams, it seemed that the rain delay benefitted the visiting Great Falls Voyagers as the Range Riders comeback attempt fell short in the bottom of the ninth in a 4-3 loss.

Legals for June, 18 2024

Law roundup: Fraudster poses as police in scam calls seeking donations

A scammer reportedly called a woman posing as a Kalispell Police Department officer asking for donations and her ATM information, which she unfortunately provided to give $20. She went to the police department to make law enforcement aware that people were impersonating police. She planned to report it to her bank.

Republicans trying to undermine courts

Republicans in the Montana Legislature can’t seem to figure out whether they want to give legislative power away or try to grab more of it. The only consistent thing about their behavior in past weeks is their desire to advance their partisan goals at the expense of Montana’s Constitution and our rights and freedoms.

Letters to the editor June 18

Letters to the editor June 18

Keeping 'forever chemicals' out of the water likely a costly endeavor for states

In recent years, Michigan has spent tens of millions of dollars to limit residents’ exposure to the harmful “forever chemicals” called PFAS. And some cities there have spent millions of their own to filter contaminated drinking water or connect to new, less-polluted sources.

Blackfeet Nation resumes enforcement of Chief Mountain closure

Tribal leaders are again enforcing a decades-old closure of Chief Mountain after recent tourist activity disturbed cultural and spiritual practices there.

Sen. Regier challenging subpoena of records tied to creation of new PSC district map

A Helena law firm challenging the Public Service Commission redistricting map drawn and approved by Republican lawmakers last year is now in a fight with the sponsor of the bill that changed the map and the Montana Department of Justice over the communications the senator had regarding why he drew the map the way he did.

St. Mary Canal failure causes flooding near Babb

The St. Mary Canal Siphon breached just outside Babb at approximately 8:45 a.m. on Monday, resulting in some flooding in the surrounding area, according to Bureau of Reclamation information.

Atwood and Block power the Range Riders to a Father’s Day win

KALISPELL – After only scoring four runs in the previous game, the Glacier Range Riders came out swinging, scoring five runs in the bottom of the first inning, en route to a comfortable 14-5 win over the Idaho Falls Chukars to take the series.

Judge orders BNSF to pay Washington tribe nearly $400 million for trespassing with oil trains

SEATTLE (AP) — BNSF Railway must pay nearly $400 million to a Native American tribe in Washington state, a federal judge ordered Monday after finding that the company intentionally trespassed when it repeatedly ran 100-car trains carrying crude oil across the tribe's reservation.

Crews working in sweltering conditions and steep terrain battle major Los Angeles-area wildfire

GORMAN, Calif. (AP) — Strong winds pushed flames through dry brush in mountains along Interstate 5 north of Los Angeles, and officials warned residents in the wildfire's path to be prepared to leave if it explodes in size again.

Legals for June, 17 2024

Law roundup: Horror game reaction startles neighbors

Someone standing outside an apartment building reportedly heard a person yelling, “Help me,” and a neighbor said the screams were coming from upstairs.

Letters to the editor June 17

Letters to the editor June 17

Kalispell A splits doubleheader with Mission Valley.

MISSION VALLEY – In a high scoring affair, the Kalispell A Lakers were able to fend off a fierce comeback attempt by the Mission Valley Mariners and win the game, 12-11.

Whitefish updates tourism management plan

Whitefish City Council on Monday is poised to vote on an update to its Sustainable Tourism Management Plan that includes six action items.

Larry and Julie Feist made spreading hope their mission

The Feists have spent a little more than four years listening to people struggling with all sorts of obstacles in the valley, among them addiction, poverty, homelessness and loneliness.

Lakers AA close out Church Tournament strong with big win

LEWISTON, Idaho – A four RBI day from Michael Owens and Hunter Fann catapulted the Kalispell AA Lakers to a massive 18-6 win against the RCA 18U Green team out of Kennewick, Washington Sunday.

K. Phyllis Kirk-Parker, 91

K. Phyllis Treweek Kirk-Parker, 91, born on July 24, 1932, in Kalispell, passed away on May 31, 2024.

Students go beyond Google

Many adults may not know the difference between primary and secondary sources. I had to look it up to be sure.

The Marshall Plan vs The Trump Plan

According to historian Heather Cox Richardson, “in his Harvard commencement speech of June 5, 1947, Gen. George Marshall drew a clear ideological line dividing the USSR and Europe stating Europeans, Americans, and our allies have coalesced around a concept of government based on equality before the law, secularism, civil rights, economic and political freedom, and a market economy: the tenets of liberal democracy. As Otto Zausmer, who had worked for the U.S. Office of War Information to swing Americans behind the war, put it in 1955: ‘America’s gift to the world is not money, but the Democratic idea, democracy.”

It’s a perfect storm for fire insurance

Westerners have begun looking at their homes differently these days. Are those trees too close? Should I move all that firewood stacked up next to the deck?

Vila 'Vi' Beam, 89

Vila "Vi" Beam, 89, of Fort Collins, Colorado, formerly of Kalispell, passed away on June 5, 2024.

Jean Fischer, 90

Jean Frances Kowalski Fischer, 90, exited stage left on Dec. 10, 2023.

Ronnie Wayne Walter, 66

Ronnie Wayne "Rerun" Walter, 66, passed away on Friday, Jan. 12, 2024, after a lengthy illness.

Joyce E. Baumgartner, 87

Joyce E. Baumgartner, 87 of Columbia Falls, went peacefully home to be with her heavenly Father on June 12, 2024, surrounded by her family.

Joan Marie Ulrich, 87

Joan Marie Ulrich, 87, passed away Oct. 19, 2023, in Kalispell.

Sheehy supporters see candidate who will take on immigration, economy

Sylvia Timboe moved to Montana for its perceived conservative principles. Sending Tim Sheehy to the U.S. Senate will preserve those values, she said.

No drama, just llamas — new competition showcases camelids

Many llama enthusiasts in the area have helped to establish the new Glacier Classic Llama Show taking place at the Majestic Valley Arena on June 22 and 23.

Open primaries give voters more control

A pair of constitutional initiatives to restructure Montana’s voting system with an open primary are likely headed for the November ballot.

AA Lakers drop extra innings thriller to Lewis-Clark

LEWISTON, Idaho — What goes around comes around.

Kathryn Anna Herman, 87

Kathryn Anna Herman, 87, lovingly known as Kathy, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2024, at Logan Health Whitefish Hospital.

Kyle Lingscheit, 61

“Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” — Warren Buffett That someone was Kyle Lingscheit.

Law roundup: Driver taunts, threatens to wreck vehicles

Someone allegedly tried to crash into a woman’s vehicle, taunting them by pointing, laughing and dancing, threatening to “wreck them both,” if she didn’t pull over.

Legals for June, 16 2024

Students learn how to go beyond Google

Many adults may not know the difference between primary and secondary sources. I had to look it up to be sure.

Northwest Montana Association of Realtors honors professionals

The Northwest Montana Association of Realtors handed out a list of honors at its annual awards banquet on Wednesday at Flathead Valley Community College. Awards included Realtor of the Year, Rookie of the Year, Jean Carter Spirit and the NMAR Good Neighbor Award.

Randy Steeley

Randy Steeley went home to Jesus on April 30, 2024, at home here in Kalispell

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Marlis Dorothy Neisinger, 81

Marlis Dorothy Neisinger, 81, of Kalispell peacefully passed away of natural causes Thursday, June 20, 2024, at Hidden Meadow Memory Care.

Braiden Louis Craver, 16

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved son, Braiden Louis Craver, who was taken from us too soon on June 12, 2024, at the tender age of 16.

Ernest 'Ernie' Hey, 76

The greatest Father that ever was closed his eyes and woke up in the arms of his Savior on May 19, 2024.

Polebridge Mercantile owners bring store back to Kiowa Junction

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Sharon Marie Lyon, 57

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Sharon Marie Lyon, who left this world on June 4, 2024.

Temu’s invasive data practices threaten Montana’s privacy

It seems nowadays that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is doing everything in its power to hack, spy, and surveil the United States and its citizens.

Karl Jones, 37

Karl Hartley Jones II, 37, passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 13, 2024, in Bigfork.

PHOTOS: Classic and custom vehicles roll into The Big Shindig

Attendees check out rows of custom and classic vehicles at The Big Shindig outside The Desoto Grill in Kalispell on Saturday, June 15. The Big Shindig features a wide range of classic and custom vehicles as well as live music, barbeque, beer and wine and a pin-up polar plunge. Hosted the Glacier Street Rod Association and the Desoto Grill, money raised benefits Mikayla’s Miracles and Blessings Foundation.

AA Lakers walk off Spokane Expos at Lewiston tourney

LEWISTON, Idaho — Jackson Heino grounded into an RBI fielder's choice to give the Kalispell AA Lakers an opening game victory over the Spokane Expos Friday at the Church Tournament.

Dinesen homers twice in Glacier’s 13-4 loss to Idaho

KALISPELL – The Glacier Range Riders had their three-game winning streak snapped Saturday, after the Idaho Falls Chukars jumped out to an early lead at Glacier Bank Park and never looked back.

Tester, Daines differ on IVF protections vote

Montana’s senators split Thursday on a Democratic-backed bill to establish federal protections for in vitro fertilization.

State environmental agency halts rewrite of water quality standards

Three years into a legislatively mandated effort to adopt looser standards for two nutrients abundant in Montana waterways, the state has halted rulemaking on the contentious effort.

Political practices commissioner rules that AG candidate was ineligible

The Montana Commissioner of Political Practices has ruled that Republican Attorney General candidate and Daniels County Attorney Logan Olson was not qualified to run for Montana Attorney General in the 2024 primary election, but stopped short of saying he knowingly violated the law.

Hot start pushes Range Riders past Idaho Falls

Back in the friendly confines of Glacier Bank Park, the Glacier Range Riders rode a pair of hot innings early to a 15-7 victory over the Idaho Falls Chukars Friday.

Judge blocks Biden's Title IX rule in four states, dealing a blow to protections for LGBTQ+ students

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration's new Title IX rule expanding protections for LGBTQ+ students has been temporarily blocked in four states after a federal judge in Louisiana found that it overstepped the Education Department's authority.

Supreme Court strikes down Trump-era ban on bump stocks, gun accessories used in 2017 Vegas massacre

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Friday struck down a Trump-era ban on bump stocks, a gun accessory that allows semiautomatic weapons to fire rapidly like machine guns and was used in the deadliest mass shooting in modern U.S. history.

PHOTOS: Range Riders defeat Idaho Falls, 15-7

Photos from the Glacier Range Riders 15-7 win over the Idaho Falls Chukars in front of 2,278 fans at Glacier Bank Park on Friday, June 14.

Don 'K' Subaru fundraiser benefits Flathead K9 Foundation

Don “K” and Subaru last month presented a check in the amount of $21,700 to the Flathead K9 Foundation because they were chosen by the employees and customers of the dealership as the 2023 Subaru Share the Love Hometown charity of the recently completed 2023 event.

Dick Markham, 65

Dick Markham, 65, passed away on June 10, 2024, with his sweet wife by his side.

Range Riders cruise past Voyagers

GREAT FALLS — Mason Dinesen went 4-5 and drove in a pair of runs as the Glacier Range Riders took a commanding 18-3 victory over the Great Falls Voyagers Thursday.

Great Outdoors Act funding to spur Flathead National Forest improvements

Thanks to a $26 million investment into the Forest Service’s Northern Region, rental cabin updates, road work, campground improvements are among the upcoming projects slated to occur in the Flathead Valley.

Law roundup: It’s a dog-eat-dog world out there

A man out for a walk feared for his little dog's safety when a black Dobermann-type dog came charging out of a house and allegedly tried to attack them.

Legals for June, 14 2024

Douglas Smith, 71

Douglas Bryan Smith, 71 of Kalispell, passed away at the end of March.

Kalispell Public Schools, teachers union pause contract negotiations

Teachers will be paid according to a contract that was set to expire this week after the Kalispell Education Association and Kalispell Public Schools failed to reach a new collective bargaining agreement after roughly five months of negotiations.

Free summer meals available for children and teens

Free meals are available to youths 18 and under in Flathead County over the summer months when school is not in session.

What could make a baby bison white?

Photos of a white bison calf in Yellowstone National Park have generated excitement as well as questions: How does that happen?

PHOTOS: Save America Rally at Snowline Acres

Photos from the Save America Rally featuring Republican U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy and former congresswoman and 2020 presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard at Snowline Acres in Kalispell on Thursday, June 13.

Mountain snow forecast for Glacier Park next week

An abrupt change in weather is expected next week, with below average temperatures and mountain snow likely.

Unanimous Supreme Court preserves access to widely used abortion medication

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously preserved access to a medication that was used in nearly two-thirds of all abortions in the U.S. last year, in the court's first abortion decision since conservative justices overturned Roe v. Wade two years ago.

Backers say nonpartisan primary and majority vote initiatives qualify for fall ballot

Backers advancing a pair of constitutional initiatives that would overhaul how Montana voters elect state and federal candidates said Wednesday that they have collected enough signatures to have the measures placed on the November ballot.

Letters to the editor June 13

Letters to the editor June 13

Sprunger says she supported reconvening Montana Legislature to address immigration

Rep. Courtenay Sprunger, R-Kalispell, said Tuesday that she voted in support of holding a special session of the Montana Legislature to address immigration, but her response apparently did not arrive in Helena by the June 7 deadline.

Plodding geezer vs old sleazer

Having lost an election, I know it hurts to lose. I know, too, that there is a good life beyond losing because I’ve been living it for the past 20 years.

City should look for source of contamination

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the apparent lack of initiative from the Kalispell City Hall to investigate the sources of PFAS contamination in our drinking water

Opening reception planned for Japanese art exhibit

An exhibit featuring Japanese art and artifacts opens at the Wanda Hollensteiner Art Gallery in the Wachholz College Center June 14.

Law roundup: 5-year-old injured from dog bite

A neighbor’s pit bull reportedly bit a 5-year-old’s stomach, leaving a bleeding wound about the size of a baseball.

Experience a Kalispell native's underwater ordeal at a new museum exhibit

Military memorabilia a harrowing story at sea at sea during World War II from Kalispell resident Harry Anderson are the focus of a new exhibit at the Northwest Montana History Museum.

Castillo wins it for Glacier in the knockout round

GREAT FALLS – After nine innings, the game was tied 9-9 when one of the most unique rules in the Pioneer League came into effect and the Glacier Range Riders defeated the Great Falls Voyagers in what is known as the knockout round, 9-9

‘Footloose’ brings popular movie to the stage

Bigfork Summer Playhouse continues its 65th season with the ‘80s pop classic “Footloose,” live on stage, beginning June 19 and continuing through the summer.

Riverbend Concert Series set up for summer

The Riverbend Concert Series will kick off Sunday, June 23 at Everit L. Sliter Memorial Park in Bigfork. The series has run for over 40 years, with this year’s lineup including tributes to the concerts’ past supporters. A total of 10 local artists will play each Sunday at 7 p.m. through August 25.

Morris Wayne Rose, 79

Morris "Morrie" Rose, 79, died in Kalispell on June 9, 2024, after a long battle with COPD.

Legals for June, 13 2024

Montana Supreme Court upholds closing down of Whistlestop Retreat

The Montana Supreme Court has largely upheld a lower court’s decision that effectively shut down a resort on the shores of Lake Five in West Glacier.

Average fire season forecast for the Flathead Valley

Fire experts and officials with state and federal agencies expect an average fire season in the Flathead Valley this year, although they said that June’s weather and precipitation will be telling.

‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ on tap for Movie Night at the Museum

Movie Night at the Museum will feature “A Streetcar Named Desire,” the film that turned Marlon Brando into a movie star, on June 25.

Teens win writing contest

Every year the nonprofit organization of “writers helping writers” hosts a contest with cash prizes to encourage teens in their writing ambitions.

Teenage motorcyclist killed in US 93 collision

A teenaged motorcyclist died Wednesday after striking a sport utility vehicle while swerving to avoid a collision on U.S. 93 near Lakeside, authorities say.

Former bookkeeper for Kalispell firearms manufacturer stole $159,000

A former bookkeeper for a Kalispell firearms manufacturer admitted stealing $159,000 from her then-employer in a check scheme, spending the money in part on hotel stays in Las Vegas and Quinn’s Hot Springs.

Jerry West, a 3-time Hall of Fame selection and the inspiration for the NBA logo, dies at 86

Jerry West, who was selected to the Basketball Hall of Fame three times in a storied career as a player and executive, and whose silhouette is considered to be the basis of the NBA logo, died Wednesday morning, the Los Angeles Clippers announced.

1 killed in fiery crash east of West Glacier

Authorities are investigating the circumstances of a fiery crash June 8 on U.S. 2 east of West Glacier that killed one person.

Charles H. Ashley Sr., 88

Charles H. Ashley Sr., 88, passed peacefully in the early hours of June 5, 2024.

Yellowstone National Park calls for more bison in new plan

Yellowstone National Park is proposing a major shift in its strategy for managing bison, one that could mean larger herds, expanded hunting opportunities beyond park borders, and more bison transfers to tribal governments.

Presentation looks at Montana vigilantes

Local author Carol Buchanan will explore "Montana's Vigilantes – Good Guys or Bad" on Monday, June 17 at the Northwest Montana History Museum in Kalispell.

Sherry Baker, 82

Sherry Lee Baker, 82 of Kalispell, passed away peacefully in her home on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, after a long battle with congestive heart failure.

The bias problem with standardized test

For many, spring means longer days, warmer weather, and a return to the great outdoors. For some, spring means one last push to wrap up school, including studying and sitting for final examinations or other standardized tests.

Two requests before county Planning Board Wednesday

The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday will hold two public hearings.

Riders rally falls just short as they lose to Voyagers 11-10

GREAT FALLS – The Glacier Range Riders dropped game one of the three game series against the Great Falls Voyagers 11-10 at Centene Stadium, Tuesday night.

Dog Tag Buddies marks graduation of service dog teams

These veterans, alongside their dedicated service dogs, have completed a rigorous program designed not only to train the dogs but also to equip the veterans with essential strategies and tools to navigate the challenges they face daily.

County commissioners approve lower wage increase for employees

Flathead County commissioners on Tuesday approved an increase in wages for elected officials, which in turn increases county employee wages at a matching rate of 3.2%.

Whitefish rally takes aim at Biden’s Title IX revisions

Former NCAA All-American swimmer Riley Gaines headlined a rally in Whitefish on Monday blasting looming changes to federal regulations that prohibit sex-based discrimination at public schools.

County approves contract for fairgrounds grandstand inspection

Flathead County commissioners on Tuesday approved a contract with a company to provide an inspection for the grandstands at the county fairgrounds.

Twins sweep doubleheader against Loggers

LIBBY – The Glacier Twins jumped out to an early lead against the Libby Loggers at Lee Gehrig field, in the first game of the doubleheader and won by a comfortable margin of 16-2.

Legals for June, 12 2024

Law roundup: Man jumps out window to avoid cops

A man reportedly thought he had no other recourse than to jump out of a window when Kalispell Police Department knocked on the door of an apartment where someone complained about a man and woman yelling at each other.

Patricia Murphy, 75

Patricia Nell Murphy, 75 of Whitefish, passed away on June 4, 2024.

Wyoming pass landslide brings mountain-sized headache to commuting tourist town workers

A landslide that wiped out a vital two-lane road in western Wyoming is causing a mountain of headaches for thousands of commuting tourist town workers at the outset of the Yellowstone region's busy summer season.

Hunter Biden convicted of all 3 felonies in federal gun trial

Hunter Biden was convicted Tuesday of all three felony charges related to the purchase of a revolver in 2018 when, prosecutors argued, the president's son lied on a mandatory gun-purchase form by saying he was not illegally using or addicted to drugs.

Law roundup: Man says fraudulent check was 'from a friend'

A bank customer was reportedly either scammed or was participating in a scam, when he opened an individual retirement account and deposited a check from his 401K account, later changing his story that it was from “a friend’s” 401K.

Letters to the editor June 11

Letters to the editor June 11

Knudsen calls Montana’s campaign laws ‘silly’

Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen appears to have doubled down on his comments from a meeting in Dillon last month in which he told an audience that he had recruited a fellow Republican to run against him for attorney general so that he could raise more money.

Legals for June, 11 2024

Sally Ann Martinus, 83

Sally Ann Martinus (nee Williams), 83 of Columbia Falls, went home to be with the Lord on May 30, 2024.

State lawmakers pass on special session on immigration

A request to hold a special session of the Montana Legislature to address immigration failed to garner enough support from state lawmakers, according to the Secretary of State’s office.

Son allegedly stabs father with kitchen knife

Anthony Louis Defazio remains behind bars in the county jail with bail set at $200,000 following his June 6 arrest.

Whitefish's proposed budget calls for increase in property taxes

Owing to a decrease in resort tax collections and a need to increase employee wages, Whitefish’s proposed budget calls for an increase in property taxes.

Legals for June, 10 2024

Doula provides support during pregnancy and childbirth

After what she described as a positive labor and delivery with her first, Anna Kreider decided to become a doula to help women have the same kind of empowering birth experience and went on to receive her certification from Birth Arts International.

Law roundup: Sheep find greener pastures in other yard

Five sheep spent a morning grazing in someone’s yard in Columbia Falls who didn’t know where they belonged.

Republican challenger to Tester leans into his outsider status in Montana U.S. Senate debate

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Republican U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy embraced his status as an outsider who came to Montana to start a business during the first debate in a race that could tip the balance of power in the Senate.

Law roundup: Man bashes vehicle with tire iron

A man reportedly called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office screaming when a man driving a Ford got out of the vehicle and holding a tire iron strode toward the caller’s car where he bashed in the windshield and broke a side mirror.

AA Lakers split doubleheader with Bozeman

BOZEMAN — Luke Nikunen pitched a complete game and drove in a pair of runs as the Kalispell AA Lakers defeated Bozeman 7-6 Saturday.

Wilfred R. 'Bill' Johnson, 83

The chains of confusion, pain, and physical limitations were finally broken, and Bill was released into the loving arms of God on Saturday, June 1, 2024.

FVCC hosts Makerspace workshops

Each workshop is held on campus in Kalispell in the Broussard Library and Learning Commons Makerspace area.

To Tanner Smith’s supporters: Let’s get your Montana back

Greg Gianforte blew a massive budget surplus and passed the largest property tax increase in Montana history. Then he falsely blamed his tax hike on fellow Republicans.

We are part of the web of life

Biodiversity is simply the web of life that includes us. Montana lists over 300 species at risk or potentially at risk. That is evidence that the global biodiversity crisis is a Montana crisis as well.

Illegal immigration must be addressed in special session

We write to encourage a call to action. We must immediately address the illegal immigration happening in Montana.

Contingency plan forms as fairgrounds waits for grandstand inspection

Constructed in the 1930s, the grandstands at the Flathead County Fairgrounds have played host to thousands of spectators throughout the decades.

Letters to the editor June 9

Letters to the editor June 9

Flathead Watercooler

Gatherings and events for Flathead Valley businesses

US hiring and wage growth picked up last month in sign of sustained economic health

America's employers added a strong 272,000 jobs in May, accelerating from April and a sign that companies are still confident enough in the economy to keep hiring despite persistently high interest rates.

Karen Grosswiler, 78

Karen Leitch Grosswiler, 78, of Mission Viejo, California, died on May 29, 2024.

Candidates needed for government review commissions

Columbia Falls and Whitefish voters last week opted to enact a unique opportunity afforded by the Montana Constitution to scrutinize how their local governments function.

Flathead County Library begins summer reading program

Beginning June 10, children and teens can sign-up and pick up a game board at any library location that offers reading and learning challenges, as well as a list of summer programming at the library.

Legals for June, 9 2024

Rural pharmacies fill a health care gap in the US. Owners say it's getting harder to stay open

Rural pharmacies can be a touchstone for their communities. The staff knows everyone's names and drugs, answers questions about residents' mail-order prescriptions or can spot the signs of serious illness. But their business models face unrelenting pressures to the point that sometimes they have to close.

Judge rather than jury will render verdict in upcoming antitrust trial

A judge rather than a jury will decide whether Google violated federal antitrust laws by building a monopoly on the technology that powers online advertising.

Zombies: Ranks of world's most debt-hobbled companies are soaring, and not all will survive

They are called zombies, companies so laden with debt that they are just stumbling by on the brink of survival, barely able to pay even the interest on their loans and often just a bad business hit away from dying off for good

George Lawrence Potter, 88

George Potter, 88, passed away on May 31, 2024.

Road trip food — Author creates cookbook for motorcycle travel

“The Motorcycle Camp Cookbook” officially released a few months ago. The self-published book includes over 65 single-serving recipes that redefine traditional camp food.

Columbia Falls campground provides vintage experience

The brightly colored interiors and exteriors of the campers paired with the campground’s location in the heart of Columbia Falls, provide a unique camping experience for those looking to easily access outdoor activities while still enjoying the amenities of being in town

Raptors win 3rrd straight against Riders

The Ogden Raptors may have come to the Flathead Valley with the worst record in the Pioneer League, but now they’re 5-11 with a three-game win streak at the expense of the Glacier Range Riders.

Experimental student testing model slated for statewide rollout

This spring marked a departure from the usual end-of-year testing regime at Missoula’s Hellgate Elementary School District. Gone were the back-to-back weeks of summative assessments students and teachers had grown accustomed to. Instead, the nine months leading up to this week’s final hours of instruction had been sprinkled with scaled-down tests designed to incrementally gauge students’ competence in math and reading.

Efforts continue to merge Logan Health, Billings Clinic hospital systems

Integrating the clinical services and technology systems at Logan Health-Billings Clinic is a top priority for new leadership at the hospital system.

Republican voters in Lincoln County drop incumbent commissioner Josh Letcher

Lincoln County voters denied District 3 Commissioner Josh Letcher a second term and also voted down an initiative to create an independent library district in Tuesday’s primary election.

Twins sweep twinbill 6-4, 6-4

WHITEFISH — It was better late than never for the Glacier Twins Thursday night — they put together five-run rallies in the sixth inning of bookend 6-4 wins over Mission Valley in Class A Legion baseball.

Life sentence given to man convicted for running down trooper

Life without parole was the sentence Flathead County District Court Judge Danni Coffman delivered to Jason Allen Miller on Wednesday afternoon in the Lincoln County Courthouse.

Relocation fund established for displaced mobile home residents

In response to the mass eviction notices issued to residents of a mobile home park in Evergreen, Whitefish Community Foundation has awarded a $45,000 Emergency Response Grant to NeighborWorks Montana to help displaced residents find new housing.

Legals for June, 7 2024

Letters to the editor June 7

Letters to the editor June 7

Law roundup: No sanctuary for ‘transients’

Finding three strangers in the door area of the main sanctuary of their church, a pastor asked officers with the Kalispell Police Department to give them the bum’s rush.

Tranel outlines federal housing plan

Democratic congressional candidate Monica Tranel last month joined a chorus of calls to ban hedge funds from buying up homes as a way to alleviate the housing crisis at the federal level.

Thankful for compassionate response

I am the mother of a young man with Prader Willi Syndrome who received inpatient treatment at the Montana State Hospital. Individuals with this rare disorder believe they are in a constant state of starvation, and will literally eat themselves to death if food is not locked away.

Lynch, Swanson, Wilson and Bidegaray advance to Montana Supreme Court general election

The four most prominent candidates for the Montana Supreme Court all advanced from their primary elections Tuesday evening.

Northwest Montana United Way to start relocation assistance program for homeless

The Northwest Montana United Way is launching a program to connect homeless people in Flathead County to family, friends and assistance programs outside of the valley.

Open house planned at the Wachholz

The Wachholz College Center and Glacier Symphony invite the public to an open house on June 15 to learn more about the 2024-25 season lineup of concerts and performances.

Law roundup: Children take go-kart for joyride in the street

Someone called the Kalispell Police Department reportedly concerned about the safety and legality of 8-year-olds driving a “NASCAR go-kart-type vehicle” in front of cars. The person called police back urging officers to get there immediately because the kids nearly careened ...

Letters to the editor June 6

Letters to the editor June 6

Court gives neighbors say in Glacier National Park inholder lawsuit

A group of West Glacier residents have been given intervenor status in a federal case involving a private home allegedly built illegally on the banks of McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park.

The accessibility of our right to know

In our previous columns, we introduced our organization and explained our constitutionally granted Right to Know, underscoring its importance. This time, we’ll talk about the accessibility of this right for individuals from Carter County to Kalispell, how “fees” can disrupt the right, and what Montana Transparency Project is doing to increase your accessibility.

Country music legend Clint Black celebrates 35 years of ‘Killin’ Time’

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Friday to see legendary country music artist Clint Black at the Wachholz College Center.

Author holds book signing

Mary Frances Erler will be signing her newest books on June 15 from noon to 3 p.m. at Barnes and Noble in Kalispell.

Legals for June, 6 2024

Centenarian veterans are sharing their memories of D-Day, 80 years later

COLLEVILLE-SUR-MER, France (AP) — World War II veterans from the United States, Britain and Canada are in Normandy this week to mark 80 years since the D-Day landings that helped lead to Hitler's defeat.

Phillips Gallery exhibit celebrates watercolor works

This exhibit celebrates the diversity and opulence of transparent watercolor in a variety of subject matters.

Alleged robber held up three at gunpoint

A Flathead Valley man is behind bars after allegedly holding up at gunpoint several people outside a Whitefish area bar Monday night.

Hamilton artist’s latest exhibit, Lines of Geometry, featured at Cawdrey Gallery

Lines of Geometry, an exhibit of Pamela Caughey’s latest abstract expressionist paintings are on display at Cawdrey Gallery through June 30.

Time for action on Medicaid expansion

In 2015 Democrats and Republicans in the Montana Legislature put aside their partisan and ideological differences, and taking advantage of the federal Affordable Care Act, expanded Medicaid coverage to more than 90,000 low income Montanans, almost 10% of the state’s entire population. That was a decision from which Montana would profoundly, and proudly, benefit.

Sherry Lynn Elaine Martindale, 75

Sherry Lynn Elaine Martindale, 75 of Columbia Falls, passed away June 4, 2024.

Briefs: Todd 22nd at NCAAs; Butler scores ace

EUGENE, Ore. — Montana Grizzly javelin thrower Evan Todd threw 214 feet, 1 inch and finished 22nd at the NCAA Championships Thursday.

Schubert knocks off Brockman while Sprunger tops conservative rival

Republican voters sent incumbent state Rep. Tony Brockman packing during Tuesday’s primary election, backing instead a teenage political neophyte for House District 8.

Hunter Biden's ex-wife is called as a witness in his federal gun trial

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Hunter Biden's ex-wife was called Wednesday to testify in his federal gun trial as prosecutors sought to show the depths of his drug problem, which they say was still going on when he filled out a form to buy a firearm.

Boeing launches NASA astronauts for the first time after years of delays

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP) — Boeing launched astronauts for the first time Wednesday, belatedly joining SpaceX as a second taxi service for NASA.

Flathead County primary election results

Flathead County primary election results as of 7 a.m., June 5. With 55 of 56 precincts reporting.

Tester to face Sheehy in Senate bid; Zinke, Downing, Gianforte win in GOP primaries

Three-term incumbent Democratic Sen. Jon Tester and Republican newcomer Tim Sheehy cruised to victory in Montana's primary election Tuesday, setting up a contentious November election that could tip the balance of power in the closely divided U.S. Senate.

Riders top Raptors with big flies, big inning

KALISPELL — The Glacier Range Riders used a huge fifth inning to propel them to a 10-9 win over the defending Pioneer League Champion Ogden Raptors at Glacier Bank Park on Tuesday.

Legals for June, 5 2024

Ninth Circuit appears skeptical of Montana’s drag ban

A three-judge panel of the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals wrestled on Tuesday with how Montana’s “drag ban law,” currently on hold from a federal judge, doesn’t violate the U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment, protecting free speech and viewpoints.

Law roundup: Shopper suspiciously gains weight in store

A shopper looked a bit bulkier leaving a store than when she arrived and reportedly had multiple bottles of alcohol shoved up the high school hoodie she was wearing. She also tried to shoplift some Chapstick and was banned from the store.

FVCC nursing grads join health care workforce

Out of 12 total graduates from the 2024 class, three Lincoln County graduates landed jobs at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center in Libby, while seven graduates from Flathead County were hired by Logan Health in Kalispell and accepted into the nurse residency program there.

Legals for June, 5 2024

Debra Lee Fauerso, 68

Debra Lee Fauerso, passed away peacefully at her home in Bigfork on May 26, 2024 at the age of 68.

New sculpture graces busy Polson street corner

With a storm blowing in from the north May 23, Cameron Decker unveiled “Still Life,” an outdoor sculpture that graces the southeast corner of Third Avenue and Main Street in Polson.

Cannabidiol oil firm execs accused of operating Ponzi scheme

Hopes were high in Lincoln County when a Texas hemp processing facility came to the state five years ago with big promises of new jobs and big money for investors.

Ken Adler, 84

Kenneth Henry Adler, 84, went to Heaven peacefully in his sleep at home on May 30, 2024, holding the hand of the love of his life.

Biden says he's restricting asylum to help 'gain control' of the border

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Tuesday unveiled plans to enact immediate significant restrictions on migrants seeking asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border as the White House tries to neutralize immigration as a political liability ahead of the November elections.

President Biden's brother, son's widow among witnesses expected at Hunter Biden's federal gun trial

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Federal prosecutors on Tuesday painted President Joe Biden's son Hunter as a "drug addict" whose dark habits ensnared loved ones and who knew what he was doing when he lied on federal forms to purchase a gun in 2018 by saying he wasn't in the throes of addiction.

Biden rolls out migration order that aims to shut down asylum requests, after months of anticipation

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden on Tuesday unveiled plans to enact immediate significant restrictions on migrants seeking asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border as the White House tries to neutralize immigration as a political liability ahead of the November elections.

Primary in Montana will lock in GOP challenger to 3-term US Sen. Jon Tester

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana voters in Tuesday's primary election will select a Republican challenger to three-term incumbent Democratic Sen. Jon Tester and candidates for an open U.S. House seat being vacated by far-right conservative Rep. Matt Rosendale.

Huzzah! Sandpoint Ren Fair brings medieval England to life

Huzzah! The Sandpoint Renaissance Faire is riding back into town. Set for this weekend, the faire will transport the community and visitors back to the late 1500s, when Elizabeth I was on the throne and ruled over England.

Letters to the editor June 4

Letters to the editor June 4

Tammie Ann Ebensteiner, 65

Tammie Ann Ebensteiner, 65, passed away on May 27, 2024 with her loving husband, Ray Ebensteiner, by her side.

Roger Grant Anderson, 88

Roger Grant Anderson, 88 of Whitefish, passed away on March 28, 2024.

Former election administrator sues Lincoln County, alleging wrongful termination

Lincoln County’s former election administrator has filed a lawsuit against the county alleging wrongful termination.

County board of adjustment considers recreation facilities, retreat

The Flathead County Board of Adjustment on Tuesday will look at two requests for recreational facilities and a retreat center.

Sheryl Mower, 68

It is with a heavy heart that the family of Sheryl Mower announces her passing on May 25, 2024, at her home in Kalispell.

Law roundup: Bar employee tired of mixing it up with unruly woman

Frustrated at constantly being pestered by an unruly woman at his place of work, an employee of a bar turned to the Kalispell Police Department for help. He said she comes in on every shift to mess with him and at least once has gone into the kitchen to find him.

Legals for June, 4 2024

Fauci pushes back partisan attacks in fiery House hearing over Covid origins and controversies

WASHINGTON (AP) — Dr. Anthony Fauci, the top U.S. infectious disease expert until leaving the government in 2022, was back before Congress on Monday, calling "simply preposterous" Republican allegations that he'd tried to cover up origins of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Committee puts $240K behind moderate Republicans in legislative primaries

A political action committee with a mix of national and state money has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on mailers intended to sway voters in a series of bitterly contested Republican legislative primary elections that reveal the fissures in Montana’s dominant political party.

Jury selection begins in Hunter Biden's gun case

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — A federal gun case against President Joe Biden's son Hunter opened Monday with jury selection, following the collapse of a plea deal that would have avoided the spectacle of a trial so close the 2024 election. First lady Jill Biden was seated in the front row of the courtroom, in a show of support for her son.

William 'Bill' Lewis Frye Jr., 78

William "Bill" Lewis Frye Jr., April 16, 1946-May 28, 2024.

Births

BIrths

Whitefish Council looks at senior housing expansion, subdivion requests

Plans for the expansion of a senior housing development and a separate 73-lot housing subdivision both are before the Whitefish City Council on Monday.

Lake County's John Grant leaves a legacy defined by birds, land and water

At Leon Hall, just south of Ninepipe, friends, neighbors and colleagues gathered Saturday to celebrate the legacy of retired wildlife-area manager John Grant and his 33-year effort to tend and protect a vast swath of critical wildlife habitat.

Riders’ Pintaro makes mid-game history

KALISPELL — Glacier Range Riders’ starting pitcher Jonathan Pintaro was removed early in the third inning of Sunday’s game against the Great Falls Voyagers, but not because of pitching struggles or injury.

Denny Rehberg angling for a comeback in a crowded House race

From a ranch in one of America's largest and newest congressional districts, where agriculture and Republicans dominate the landscape, a retired six-term Montana lawmaker and grandfather is taking an unlikely path in search of a political comeback.

Of blooms and building booms

I appreciate these semiwild oases. Given how difficult it is to manage larger, popular spaces for the public good, it is these smaller parcels that may mean the most, especially for locals.

Joan Elayne Chapin, 83

Joan Elayne Chapin, 83, was born in Vancouver, B.C. Canada, to Percy and Flo Wintle.

A bright future for the Class of 2024

We are once again amazed by the seniors graduating from the area’s high schools and heading out into the world. The Inter Lake over the last week has showcased some remarkable young people who shared their stories with the community.

Fran Pletcher, 76

Fran Pletcher, 76, passed away surrounded by her loving family members on Mother’s Day, May 12, 2024.

Marlene A. Becker, 83

Marlene A. Becker, 83 of Whitefish, passed away at her home surrounded by family and friends who loved her.

Grizzly hunting is trophy hunting

A final decision on the petitions to remove the grizzly bear from the list of threatened species and the protections of the Endangered Species Act (delisting) may come in June or early July. Currently, authority over grizzly bear management is vested in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. If the petitions are approved, management will be turned over to the states.

James Peterson, 81

James Ralph Peterson, 81, known affectionately as Jim, passed away on May 30, 2024, in his home surrounded by loved ones in Rahway, New Jersey.

No rain on this parade

Senior trio leads C-Falls softball to second straight title

“Fire truck” is not the rally cry you’d expect, but for Columbia Falls softball it kept all eyes on the prize.

Carroll M. Jones, 70

Carroll M. Jones, 70, passed away on May 21, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at the Jones family home in Columbia Falls.

Law roundup: 911-caller complains about signature request

Someone called 911 to complain that two men in their 20s purportedly ran toward them as they got out of their car in a store parking lot, yelling for their signature on something.

Richard L. Corbitt, 94

Richard L. Corbitt, 94, passed away on May 25, 2024, following complications of injuries received in a motor vehicle accident.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Glacier National Park plow crews grapple with deepest snow in more than a decade

It’s feeling like spring in the valley, but at Logan Pass, Glacier National Park road crews are still in the thick of winter snowpack — the deepest seen in more than a decade, according to officials.

Two-party system isn’t serving Montanans

It’s primary election season in Montana. Are you tired of divisive, negative and petty partisan politics yet? If you’re like me and many other independent-minded Montanans, you can’t wait until the election year is over, given our participation is unappreciated and under-represented.

Flathead cherry crop stunted by winter freeze

"There’s just a lot of hoops to jump through before we get to the harvest time with a good crop. And now we’re telling you, ‘We’re starting with a bad crop.’"

PHOTOS: A trip through the Bison Range

Scenes from a trip around the Bison Range on the Flathead Reservation on Sunday, May 19.

Legals for June, 2 2024

Letters to the editor June 2

Letters to the editor June 2

Working together to protect kids from lead in schools

The dangers of lead exposure for children are well known and many schools across Montana have made great strides to protect students and staff from lead in drinking water. But a number of Montana schools have not yet taken action and the possibility of lead in school drinking water continues to be a serious concern.

BRIEFS: C-Falls’ Kehr honored by MCA; Spint gets ace

FORT SHAW — Dave Kehr, who guided the Columbia Falls Wildkats to their second straight State A softball title last weekend, is among the spring honorees for Coach of the Year, according to the Montana Coaches Association.

Beaten Thursday, Range Riders bounce back big on Friday

GREAT FALLS — The Great Falls Voyagers took an early 9-0 lead against the Glacier Range Riders, as they jumped on starter Brady Held an eventual 12-7 Pioneer League win on Thursday, snapping the Riders six-game winning streak.

PHOTOS: Flathead and Glacier class of 2024 graduation ceremonies

Photos from Flathead and Glacier high schools' class of 2024 graduation ceremonies on Friday, May 31 and Saturday, June 1.

Supporters rally in Kalispell for embattled Flathead Warming Center

Penalizing one of the few sources of help for people living on the streets will do little to alleviate homelessness, argued supporters of the embattled Flathead Warming Center at a rally in downtown Kalispell on Thursday.

Kalispell woman allegedly used ax to break into home

Sophia Maria Owen, 39, appeared before Judge Heidi Ulbricht for her arraignment in Flathead County District Court on May 23.