Saturday, November 30

Extraordinary public impact: UM, Arlee win national research award
University of Montana researchers and community officials in Arlee have worked together on a project since 2017 to promote mental health on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

Beaver activity threatens Whitefish's Smith Lake dam
The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation posted a sign near Smith Lake recently, warning people to stay away and to keep pets away from the area because beaver trapping for the integrity of the dam was underway.

Block Management continues slow decline despite increased payment cap
The number of acres enrolled in Block Management, a hunting access program managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, has continued its gradual decline despite efforts to bolster landowner interest in the program.
Friday, November 29
Kalispell woman killed in head-on collision near Bigfork
A Kalispell woman was killed in a head-on crash Monday, Nov. 25 on Montana 35 near Bigfork.
State investigator finds SOS Jacobsen discriminated against former Cascade County election official
Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen emailed Cascade County commissioners in February as they considered candidates for the elections administrator position.
Law roundup: Teenage driver fails to mend fences
After hitting a fence while drifting in a four-wheel drive pickup truck on 12th Street, a teenager allegedly told the homeowner that his mother would give them a call to sort it all out.
Columbia Falls student-athlete recognized for leadership
Columbia Falls High School senior Julia Byrd was recognized as a Winslow Nichols Leadership Award winner for her exceptional work ethic, strong character, leadership skills and collaborative spirit.
Legals for November, 29 2024

Medicaid expansion ‘crucial,’ Montana Dems say
Medicaid expansion is a “crucial priority” for Democrats in the 2025 Montana Legislature — but Democratic leaders said Monday they want to do better than just continue the program.
Glacier’s Dorcheus commits to Montana Tech
Kobe Dorcheus is headed to Butte.
Thursday, November 28
Whitefish has 5 All-State griders; Bigfork and C-Falls 3
Whitefish posted five players to the All-State football team for Class A while Columbia Falls and Bigfork had three picks each, according to the Western A football coaches.

Canada lynx proposed for new habitat protections in US southern Rockies
BILLINGS (AP) — U.S. wildlife officials finalized a recovery plan for imperiled populations of Canada lynx on Wednesday and proposed new habitat protections in the southern Rocky Mountains for the forest-dwelling wildcats that are threatened by climate change.

A Montana man pleads not guilty and claims self-defense in the death of a man killed in a tent
BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — A self-described white supremacist charged with killing a man in a tent in southwestern Montana has pleaded not guilty to deliberate homicide and claims self-defense, while investigators say there are inconsistencies in the defendant's story.

Montana State QB Tommy Mellott named Big Sky offensive player of the year
Everyone knew Tommy Mellott was special and now the Big Sky Conference has made it official, naming him the offensive player of the year Wednesday.

A vanishing community: Spring Creek Mobile Home Park residents celebrate holidays with eviction looming
For Thanksgiving, John Wallace would throw a ham on the barbeque and let it smoke for the day while his wife cooked the turkey. Then he’d eat until he couldn’t anymore, regretting it in the morning.

Kalispell nearing completion of lead service line inventory
Kalispell is nearing completion of the municipality’s water service line inventory — per a federal mandate — but the material hundreds of lines are made up of remains unknown.

Denim Gold duo performs for Press Play concert Dec. 6
They became friends and collaborated on each other’s music before officially deciding to join forces as the duo Denim Gold performing American country with a modern folk flair and a touch of bluegrass roots.

Logan Health CEO: Hospital system to work on rebrand in 2025
Billings Clinic-Logan Health is expected to change its name and brand following the merger of the two hospital systems last year.

Peak deer season has arrived
For the thousands of local deer hunters who have not notched their deer license this year, your time has arrived.

Teen harvests bull and cow elk in same day
Nicholas Cooper started hunting through the FWP Apprentice Hunter Program at 10 years old. He’s taken a turkey, a doe and a couple of young bucks, but he’s never fired a shot at an elk, until a few weeks ago.
Legals for November, 28 2024

FVCC art department exhibition and student work sale held
Flathead Valley Community College’s Art Department is offering two ways for the community to support art students as they finish up the fall semester.

Glacier Symphony celebrates the season with two holiday favorites
These timeless traditions, Handel’s “Messiah” and “The Nutcracker,” will take center stage at the Wachholz College Center this December.

Listen to holiday classic performed at the Conrad Mansion
The Gypsy Theatre Guild will perform the Charles Dickens’ classic famously dramatized for the radio on Dec. 6, 7 and 8.
Law roundup: Neighbor wants to know what’s up
Spotting law enforcement officers in her neighborhood, a resident phoned the Kalispell Police Department asking for the inside scoop on what was going on outside her home.
When politics arise, seek out common ground
Like fire and ice, politics and the holidays just don't mix.

Solve a holiday whodunit alongside Sherlock Holmes with the Whitefish Theatre Co.
The dazzling whodunit “The Game’s Afoot: Holmes For The Holiday” by Ken Ludwig runs Dec. 6, 7, and 8 and Dec. 12, 13, 14, and 15 at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.
Letters to the editor Nov. 28
Letters to the editor Nov. 28

FVCC honors nursing graduates at pinning ceremony
Flathead Valley Community College’s nursing program will honor its current classes of nine Associate of Science in Nursing graduates and eight practical nursing graduates during a traditional pinning ceremony Friday, Dec. 13 at 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday, November 27

Big Sky Now: Cat-Griz blowout, FCS Playoff preview
This week, the Hagadone Sports Network team breaks down Montana State’s dominance, UC Davis’s playoff potential after a nail-biter against Sac State, and how Idaho is flying under the radar despite a stellar season.

Martin City murderer given 100 years in state prison
The Kila man convicted earlier this year of murdering Whisper Sellars during a dispute over a golf cart outside a Martin City bar received a 100-year sentence in the Montana State Prison on Tuesday.

New easements protect two riverfront properties near Whitefish
Over the past few days, Flathead Land Trust helped protect two riverfront properties near Whitefish with conservation easements.
Steven Robertson, 65
Steven Robertson, 65, born March 23, 1959, in Conrad, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024.

Rev. Tod E. Fox, 71
Reverend Tod E. Fox, 71, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Nov. 24, 2024

West End Volunteer Fire Department builds custom truck to fight wildfires
Members of the West End Volunteer Fire Department don't just volunteer to fight fires, they're also willing to build their own apparatus.
Legals for November, 27 2024
Whitefish High School speech and debate takes first in Class A
Whitefish High School speech and debate captured first place in Class A with 150 points last weekend, followed by Columbia Falls High School in second place with 102 points.
Trump’s promise to end taxation on Social Security
Social Security was established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s “New Deal” administration during the Great Depression of the 1930s.

Kalispell mayor calls on Legislature to return power to municipalities
Ahead of the 2025 legislative session in Helena, Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson said he wants to see authority given back to the cities and out of the hands of “the big government Marxists sitting in Helena.”

Suspect in Coram standoff faces felony charge
Anne Marie Hislop, 41, remains in the county jail with bail set at $150,000 following her Nov. 21 arrest. She is expected to appear before Judge Robert Allison in Flathead County District Court on Dec. 19 for her arraignment on the felony charge
Authorities step up patrols to deter drunk driving during holiday season
Local and state law enforcement agencies are stepping up patrols in the Kalispell area during the holiday season to tamp down on drunk driving, authorities say.

Rex Wayne Jackson, 81
Rex Wayne Jackson, 81, went peacefully into the arms of his Savior Nov. 16, 2024, in Kalispell.
Bus transporting Whitefish speech and debate team catches fire
Whitefish High School speech and debate students and coaches made it home safely after the bus transporting the team caught fire at a Saturday tournament in Ronan.

Libby City Council weighs safety improvements to downtown drag
More stop signs on Mineral Avenue in Libby or a drop in the speed limit?
Law roundup: Errant Christmas trees lands in road
No word on whether they spotted a 1989 Ford Taurus wagon returning to retrieve the evergreen.
Tuesday, November 26

Poster Player of the Week: Yoli Krastev of Whitefish
Whitefish’s Yoli Krastev is this week’s Poster Player!

Local Events: Thanksgiving week fun
The holidays are here, and Flathead Valley is buzzing with festive fun!
Legals for November, 26 2024

Daines pushes bill to address overdue maintenance at national parks
U.S. Sen. Steve Daines on Thursday introduced a bill with bipartisan support that seeks to reauthorize a program to address billions in overdue maintenance at national parks, increase program funding from the federal government, and seeks to increase the amount of public donations supporting those projects.

James C. 'Jim' Eakins, 87
James C. "Jim" Eakins, 87, was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus on Nov. 23, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.
Law roundup: Boyfriend makes the call on drunk girlfriend
A drunk woman in Lakeside reportedly stood next to her boyfriend glaring at him and threatening to "call the cops on him."
Letters to the editor Nov. 26
Letters to the editor Nov. 26

In Montana, conservative groups see chance to kill Medicaid expansion
Conservative groups are working to undermine support for Montana’s Medicaid expansion in hopes the state will abandon the program. The rollback would be the first in the decade since the Affordable Care Act began allowing states to cover more people with low incomes.
Monday, November 25
One dead after violent weekend incident south of Libby
One man is dead after a violent incident Friday night on Frazey Loop, south of Libby.

'Busiest Thanksgiving ever': How the TSA plans to handle record air travel
DALLAS (AP) — Just as there are good odds the turkey will taste dry, airports and highways are expected to be jam-packed during Thanksgiving week, a holiday period likely to end in another record day for air travel in the United States.
Letters to the editor Nov. 25
Letters to the editor Nov. 25
Law roundup: Flower shop worker fears pushing up daisies
A flower shop employee feared for her safety after a person she suspected of being homeless entered the store and asked for money.

Kalispell City Council to review priorities for upcoming legislative session
Kalispell City Council will begin determining Monday the municipality’s legislative priorities ahead of the upcoming session in Helena.

Advisor wants to see businesses reach full potential
A senior business advisor at the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center and an executive growth consultant, Rich Turner sees the potential of people and businesses beyond their current reality.

Influx of newcomers fuels Republican sweep in Montana
Democrats' crushing loss in Montana's nationally important U.S. Senate race settled a fierce political debate over whether a surge of newcomers in the past decade favored Republicans — and if one of the new arrivals could even take high office.
Legals for November, 25 2024
Sunday, November 24

Cats earn top seed, Griz host in 1st round
The road to Frisco runs through Bozeman.
Pursuit buys Eddie's Cafe in Apgar Village
Located in Apgar Village, which is a small village inside the park at the foot of Lake McDonald, the property features the Apgar Lookout Retreat, the only five-star accommodation in Glacier National Park.

Evergreen School District focuses on community connections
The district has approximately 650 students and 120 staff.

Shoppers can enter 12 Days of Evergreen Christmas to win
The Evergreen Chamber of Commerce is hosting, with the help of participating chamber members, the 12 Days of Evergreen Christmas. The program encourages folks to stop into businesses and earn a chance to win during 12 days of drawings in December.
Letters to the editor Nov. 23
Letters to the editor Nov. 23

Shirley Bertelsen, 94
If you walked at all around Columbia Falls, you saw our mother, Shirley Bertelsen going to church, the post office, senior citizens, grocery or thrift store.

Michael Wayne Root, 58
Michael Wayne Root, 58, was born in Kalispell to Norman and Jeanna (Larson) Root, the second of five children.
Flathead Business Watercooler
Happenings related to business in the Flathead Valley
Law Roundup: Drinks and snacks lifted from convenience store
Alcohol along with snack cakes, and various other items, were stolen from a convenience store. The total value reported to the Kalispell Police Department came out at $13.44.
Only you can prevent overvotes
As a member of a resolution board that worked the last federal general election, I have pointers.

New sidewalks create safer route through Evergreen
After breaking ground on the project in mid-April, the first phase of the long-awaited Evergreen sidewalk project is complete resulting in sidewalks from the Tractor Supply to Evergreen Junior High.

Glacier Monuments crafts personalized memorials
Producing a blend of engraved stone and granite for headstones, decor, benches and more, the work is often a tribute to something or someone.

Herbert ‘Herb’ Mains, Jr., 85
Herbert "Herb" Mains Jr., 85, passed away on Nov. 17, 2024, at his home in West Glacier.

Park Provisions provides a place to grab a meal
Park Provisions is the kind of place where you might grab lunch on the way to Glacier National Park along with any supplies you may have forgotten. It’s also a refuge for the weary and hungry traveler who just wants a ready-to-bake meal they can pop in the oven after a long day in the hills.

Evergreen School District sees improvements after adding community liaison position
Since introducing a school and health community liaison in January 2023, Evergreen School District has reported improvements in attendance (64%), behavior (55%), and academics (41%), according to Superintendent Laurie Barron.
‘Yellowstone’ highlights influence behind a changing Montana
The popular “Yellowstone” TV series, set and filmed in Montana, taps into a lesser-known chapter of the state’s history: its settlement by Confederates and ex-Confederates during and after the Civil War.
Alcoholic Beverage Control Division scholarships available
Montana's Alcoholic Beverage Control Division will award five, one-time, $2,000 scholarships to Montana high school seniors graduating in 2025 who write a short paragraph of 250 words maximum (explaining the design) and come up with an original artwork design dedicated to the question: What does “Alcohol Responsibility Matters” mean to you and your community?
Legals for November, 24 2024

Evergreen kicks off the holiday season
The community donates pies to auction off to friends and neighbors with the proceeds from the annual auction benefiting local food pantries. The event includes appetizers along with silent and live pie auctions.

Donald Ross Sanders, 78
Donald Ross Sanders, 78, passed away peacefully Sept. 20, 2024.

From electrician to lawyer, Jordan Vann brings Vann Law Firm to Evergreen
His firm specializes in criminal defense, personal injury and wills and trusts, offering free consultations and flat fees for service.
Trump’s win shows Native Americans are changing their political leanings
Political pundits were stunned by Donald Trump’s strong support among people of color — a surge that helped sweep him to the White House and a popular vote victory. However, while attention has focused on Trump’s improvement among Black and Hispanic voters, the group where Trump scored his most significant win?
Grants awarded for tourism-related emergency service projects
Local safety agencies across Montana will share more than $1.4 million of grant funding to support tourism-related emergency service projects in rural areas.
Reappraisal report is a warning shot
Buckle up, Montana homeowners. Yet another tax bill whammy is on the horizon.
Saturday, November 23

Too many Joneses
Bobcats win 123rd Brawl, 34-11 over Griz
BOZEMAN — The Montana State Bobcats had too much for the Montana Grizzlies to handle Saturday.

PHOTOS: Montana State rolls to 12-0 with 34-11 Brawl of the Wild win over Griz
Photos from the 123rd Brawl of the Wild where the Montana State Bobcats won 34-11 over the Montana Grizzlies at Bobcat Stadium in Bozeman on Saturday, Nov. 23.

Bruins claw past Wolfpack, 34-21
HELENA — The Glacier Wolfpack hoped a second chance at Helena Capital would turn out better, and that a surprising surge into the State AA football championship would bring exaltation.

Montana settles with conservation groups that sued to shorten wolf trapping season
Two conservation groups agreed to dismiss a lawsuit against the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission this week after it adopted wolf and coyote trapping season regulations they said will protect threatened grizzly bears in Montana.

Answering the call: Six new EMTs join Libby Volunteer Ambulance
The challenges of running a volunteer ambulance service are countless, but the dedicated denizens in Libby have been doing it for more than 50 years.
Two jailed in Lincoln County following separate police chases
Two men are locked up in the Lincoln County Detention Center after they allegedly engaged in separate police chases in recent weeks.

Energizing the crowd: Spirit of the West marching band marks 40th anniversary
Spirit of the West’s impact on the MSU community expands far beyond its marquee Saturday afternoon performances in the fall.
Friday, November 22

PHOTOS: Glacier falls to Capital in championship, 34-21
Photos from the Class AA state championship game between the Glacier Wolfpack and Helena Capital Bruins at Vigilante Stadium in Helena on Friday, Nov. 22. Glacier fell to Helena, 34-21.

Species of Concern: How the Endangered Species Act has influenced Northwest Montana
It’s been 50 years since President Richard Nixon signed into law the Endangered Species Act. This four-part series looks at how the landmark environmental legislation has influenced Northwest Montana’s ecosystems and habitats, and how it continues to be used as a tool to protect species on the brink.
Suspect in Coram standoff allegedly assaulted teen, shot at relatives
Authorities are holding Anne Hislop in the Flathead County Detention Center on pending charges of attempted deliberate homicide, assault with a weapon, sexual assault and resisting arrest. She was expected to make an initial appearance in court on Friday.

Big Sky Now: Brawl of the Wild predictions
This week on Big Sky Now, we gear up for the Brawl of the Wild as Montana State aims to stay undefeated against their biggest rival, the Montana Grizzlies.

Braeden Gunlock officially signs with BYU
Braeden Gunlock, a multi-sport standout in her senior year at Bigfork High School, officially signed to play women's basketball at Brigham Young University Wednesday.
Eureka's Lytle, Banks named All-State
The Eureka Lions have two All-State football selections, as voted on by Western B coaches at the conclusion of the 2024 season.
Frontier: Western’s Beccari 1st team; Tech’s Anderson 2nd team
Northern's Lucas Thacker is honorable mention
HELENA — The Frontier Conference released its all-league football team Monday, and two offensive linemen from Kalispell — Rocco Beccari and Max Anderson — were honored.

Trump gave Interior nominee one directive for a half-billion acres of US land: 'Drill.'
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Donald Trump assigned Doug Burgum a singular mission in nominating the governor of oil-rich North Dakota to lead an agency that oversees a half-billion acres of federal land and vast areas offshore: "Drill baby drill."

Keeping Score: Interview and insights with Coach Bennett as Glacier Wolfpack prepare for state championship
In this special edition of the Keeping Score podcast, we dive deep into the Glacier Wolfpack football team’s journey back to the state championship.
Cat-Griz Football Capsule
o. 9/10 Montana at No. 2 Montana St. When: Saturday, noon; TV — CBS (KPAX). Where: Bobcat Stadium (17,777 FieldTurf)
Law roundup: Woman intuits her intuition might be off
story

Arthur 'Art' Wright, 79
Arthur Wright, 79, passed away from natural causes on Nov. 17, 2024.

William S. 'Bill' Crismore, 91
William S. "Bill" Crismore, 91, long time Libby resident, passed away at his home on Nov. 16, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at the time.

A closer look: New Kalispell precinct goes all blue while one Whitefish area leans red in governor's race
A voting bloc in downtown Kalispell bucked the prevailing conservative trends in the 2024 election, emerging as an island of blue amid Northwest Montana's overwhelming sea of red.
Legals for November, 22 2024

Bigfork Fire lieutenant dismissed following misconduct investigation
The Bigfork Fire District Board of Trustees last week dismissed a lieutenant who faced allegations of misconduct relating to the sexual harassment of female coworkers.
Green Box sites in Lincoln County affected in deal to haul trash
Lincoln County officials approved a deal to haul trash for the next two years at a Nov. 13 meeting of the Board of Commissioners.
Rollins Volunteer Fire Department gets $10K boost from Flathead Electric Co-op's safety program
Flathead Electric Cooperative’s Roundup for Safety program on Nov. 14 awarded $46,776 in grants supporting community safety projects proposed by 10 local nonprofit organizations.

Bigfork school board reviews four-day week feedback
The Bigfork Public Schools Board of Trustees reviewed results from a community-wide four-day school week survey during its Nov. 13 meeting.

Ready for Rematch
Glacier, Capital meet again - this time for AA title
A rematch with everything to play for.

Brawl: A rivalry with lasting power
Given the conference upheaval in the Bowl Championship Subdivision of college football, a rivalry game like Saturday’s in Bozeman — the 123rd Brawl of the Wild — could soon be the Grandaddy Of Them All.

Most classes return to Columbia Falls High School, but work remains on classroom wing
Most classes have resumed in Columbia Falls High School, though some science classes are still being held at Glacier Gateway Elementary School.

Debates about fluoride in water emerge across U.S.
For about 50 years, adding cavity-preventing fluoride to drinking water was a popular public health measure in Yorktown, a leafy town north of New York City.
Thursday, November 21

Trump chooses Pam Bondi for attorney general after Matt Gaetz withdraws
Matt Gaetz withdrew Thursday as President-elect Donald Trump's pick for attorney general amid continued fallout over a federal sex trafficking investigation that cast doubt on his ability to be confirmed as the nation's chief federal law enforcement officer.
Letters to the editor Nov. 21
Letters to the editor Nov. 21

Richard H. Fretheim, 95
Richard H. Fretheim died on Nov. 7, 2024, four days after his 95th birthday.
Commissioners must address PILT underpayments
We are disappointed, very disappointed but still hopeful. For a long time, we have wanted our local county commissioners to do two things.
Whitefish, Bigfork and Polson spikers named All-State
Whitefish’s Isabella Hartwig and Myli Ridgeway and Bigfork’s Taylor Howlett earned Class A All-State volleyball honors, according to the Northwest A All-Conference team released Wednesday.
Legals for November, 21 2024

Thrilling opera, ‘Tosca,’ comes to the big screen in Whitefish
“Tosca,” a roller coaster story of love, lust, jealousy, murder and political intrigue comes to Whitefish Nov. 23 as part of the Metropolitan Opera Live in HD program.

Dr. Dale A. Bax, 75
Community leader and dentist Dr. Dale Bax, 75, passed away on Nov. 11, 2024.
Column: Senior season a test for Thompson
What was supposed to happen, coming off a scintillating 2023 season, was that Skyleigh Thompson would again be a force for the Montana Grizzlies soccer team her senior year this fall.
Law roundup: Leatherface tasked with driving out ‘degenerates’
A man donning a Leatherface outfit (a character from the horror film “Texas Chainsaw Massacre”) complete with a mask, shoulder pads, boots and a trench coat purportedly told a Kalispell Police Department officer ...

Kick off the holiday season with ‘The Nutcracker’
Keeping with holiday tradition, the Northwest Ballet Company tradition presents its 36th production of “The Nutcracker” over Thanksgiving weekend at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

Cat-Griz: Who will be most special
The last three Cat-Griz games have been lopsided affairs won by the home team, and it is easy to find reasons.

Youth choir’s first concert set Nov. 24
The public is invited to attend Flathead Valley Youth Chorus’s first concert, To Sing and Rejoice!, Nov. 24.

KT Tunstall, Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan set to perform in Kalispell
Tickets are on sale to see country stars Pam Tillis’s and Lorrie Morgan’s Grits and Glam tour in March and rock and folk musician KT Tunstall in May at the Wachholz College Center.

Alpine enigmas: Researchers work to improve management of bighorns, mountain goats
The best way to catch a bighorn sheep is with a helicopter. You also need favorable conditions, good planning and a little bit of luck.
Dealing with a personality disorder
Sometimes we run into people who have mental health problems that are difficult for family members or society to deal with.
Wednesday, November 20

News Now: Strengthening community with the Flathead Food Bank
The Flathead Food Bank will give out around 750 Thanksgiving meals on Nov. 22, and 600 for Christmas Dec. 20.

Hunting season picks up with two weeks remaining
Montana’s general hunting season is down to the final two weeks, and activity has picked up in Northwest Montana.

Kalispell teachers get pay increase with approval of union contact
The Kalispell Education Association has a new contract in place that seeks to move the dial on starting pay for new teachers after nearly 280 days of negotiations that began in February.

'Bomb cyclone' to bring heavy mountain snow to Montana
A major storm swept across the northwestern U.S., battering the region with strong winds and rain, causing widespread power outages and downing trees that killed at least two people.

Big Sky Now: Playoff push, Griz QB drama, and Cats take down UC Davis
This week on Big Sky Now, we break down the epic Montana State vs. UC Davis showdown that came down to the wire, the Grizzlies’ quarterback drama after a lights-out performance (literally!), and a potential coaching shakeup at Sacramento State.
NFL's Commanders pledge to honor logo with Blackfeet ties
The famous and defunct football logo of an American Indian chief used at the urging of a Blackfeet Nation tribal leader could make an appearance on a throwback jersey in the future — for example — or in a sports arena.

Multiple election offices report receiving mailed ballots misdirected from other states
The Associated Press has found numerous instances of completed mail ballots from around the country being sent to election offices in the wrong state.

Man convicted of killing Laken Riley sentenced to life in prison without parole
The Venezuelan man convicted in the killing of Georgia nursing student Laken Riley has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Montana FWP Director Dustin Temple to retire at end of the year
Temple’s upcoming departure will be the latest high-profile exit at FWP since he took over.

Whitefish's Jersey Boys Pizzeria serving pies in new location
A downtown fixture has shut its doors at the corner of East First Street and Spokane Avenue in Whitefish, but its delicious food and warm atmosphere are available, bigger and better, just a short drive south.

Helen Louise Clark, 90
Helen Louise Clark passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, at Logan Health Whitefish, surrounded by her children and family.

Larry Ray Dalrymple, 75
Larry Ray Dalrymple or "Rip" as he preferred to be called, left this earthly existence Nov. 1, 2024, at the age of 75, surrounded by his family at his home in Kalispell.
Legals for November, 20 2024
Glacier High School speech and debate triumphs at Missoula invitational
Glacier High School’s speech and debate team brought home the hardware in a decisive win over the weekend in Missoula.

Glacier Park seeks input to improve visitor experience
The park is sharing initial ideas for addressing traffic congestion, visitor movement challenges, transportation, and related issues that affect visitor experience and park resources that will be used to inform a long-term plan. The public is invited to provide comments through Jan. 6, 2025.

Autumnal soup delicious, easy to make
There’s a reason soup is such a go-to dish in the fall. It’s nutritious, affordable, easy to make, and of course, delicious.
Law roundup: And they were drunk and disorderly roommates
Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report about an allegedly drunk and disorderly man who was punching things, slamming doors and threatening to kill his roommates in Bigfork.

Gordon Walker, 88
Gordon Lee Walker, 88, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 9, 2024, surrounded by his family and is now safely in the hands of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Kalispell city manager suggests amending city fire code to address Outlaw Inn
City Manager Doug Russell suggested Monday that Kalispell City Council amend the municipality’s fire code to address a lack of security at the vacant Outlaw Inn.

Montana Department of Environmental Quality halts public review of Montanore permits
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality has stopped a public review of two permits for the Montanore Mine.

Revenue department says property taxes could rise again
Montana Department of Revenue staff told a legislative committee Monday that next year’s reappraisal cycle could produce a partial repeat of last year’s jarring tax spike as the state’s surging real estate market continues to translate into higher residential taxes.

Colleen Sund, 77
Colleen D. Sund, 77, passed away peacefully on Nov. 9, 2024, in La Grange, Kentucky.
Tuesday, November 19
Legals for November, 19 2024

MaryBeth Arnold, 74
MaryBeth (McCormick-Schilling) Arnold, 74, passed away Nov. 14, in Kalispell with her family and friends by her side.

Joanne G. McElfresh, 90
Joanne G. McElfresh, 90, of Stevensville, passed away from natural causes at the Living Centre Nov. 10, 2024.
Law roundup: Manager finds whole drug kit and caboodle
A woman reportedly left a large brown purse at a location and when the manager looked for an ID, they found drugs and needles instead.

Bozeman starts relocating urban campers in wake of new law
BOZEMAN — On a recent Wednesday morning in north Bozeman, the sound of hauling equipment and tow trucks filled the air as city officials and police moved to close a popular urban camping area.

Joan Creek, 86
It is with great sadness that the family of Mary Joan Creek, 86, announce her passing on Nov. 13, 2024.
Letters to the editor Nov. 19
Letters to the editor Nov. 19
Judge's ruling temporarily frees Montana abortion clinics from new licensing requirements
Abortion clinics in Montana won’t be subject to new licensing requirements — ones their lawyers said could shut them down — at least for the time being.

Jury acquits man charged in connection with Kalispell parking lot shooting
Following a three-day trial in Flathead County District Court, jurors spent about two hours deliberating before returning with a not guilty verdict on Nov. 14.
Monday, November 18

Poster Player of the Week: Kobe Dorcheus of Glacier High
This week’s Daily Inter Lake poster player of the week goes to Kobe Dorcheus, a running back for the Glacier Wolfpack who is winning the honor for the second time this season.

Mumford and Sons to headline 2025 Under the Big Sky music festival
British folk rock band Mumford and Sons will headline the 2025 Under the Big Sky music festival alongside country star Tyler Childers and country rock act The Red Clay Strays.

Headlines: Governor honors veterans, Warming Center supporters show solidarity and CWD positive elk
Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she goes over some of the biggest stories this week for Northwest Montana.

Negotiators are urged to get down to business as climate talks in Baku enter second week
United Nations climate talks resumed Monday with negotiators urged to make progress on a deal that could see developing countries get more money to spend on clean energy and adapting to climate-charged weather extremes.

Stock market today: Wall Street rises following last week's slide
U.S. stocks are ticking higher as Wall Street recovers some of last week's sharp slide. The S&P 500 rose 0.5% in midday trading Monday.

Alaska political leaders hope to see Trump undo restrictions on oil drilling
Political leaders in Alaska have welcomed President-elect Donald Trump's pledges to expand oil production. They hope he will undo restrictions imposed by the Biden administration on vast swaths of Alaska's petroleum-rich North Slope, as well as pursue drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

Forget downtown or the 'burbs. The far-flung exurbs are where people are moving
Not long ago, Polk County's biggest draw was citrus. The Florida county produces more boxes of citrus than any other in the state. But last year more people moved there than to any other U.S. county. The migration reflects a growing trend all over the country: the rise of far-flung exurbs.

Grocery chains vie for a place on Thanksgiving tables with turkey dinner deals and store brands
With Thanksgiving less than two weeks away, food retailers are trying to tempt Americans who haven't recovered from recent price inflation. Walmart, Target, Aldi and other grocers are competing for a place on holiday tables with turkey dinner deals and other promotions

Former nonprofit leader looks back fondly on time with Flathead Industries
From surviving the pandemic with zero layoffs to penny-pinching after millions of dollars were cut from the Department of Public Health and Human Services in 2017, the now-retired CEO is finally able to reflect on her time leading.

Kalispell City Council to consider financing options for water infrastructure project
Kalispell City Council is expected to approve funding Monday for a 2.5-million-gallon replacement concrete water storage tank.
Law roundup: Woman’s truck merges into patrol car
A woman, who was a known drug offender, was driving a red 2010 Ford Ranger allegedly merging into the side of a patrol car.
Letters to the editor Nov. 18
Letters to the editor Nov. 18
The case for mass deportations
President-elect Donald Trump has pledged to “launch the largest deportation of criminals in American history.”

Whitefish to vote on lobbyist contract
Whitefish City Council on Monday will look at hiring a lobbyist ahead of the Montana Legislature session next year.
Sunday, November 17
Bobcats hold off UC Davis, 30-28
DAVIS, Calif. — McCade O’Reilly, take a bow.

Habitat Flathead volunteers build a future for those in need of housing
There, Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley volunteers have been building two duplex-style townhouses fitted with two bedrooms, one-and-a-half bathrooms and conjoining garages.
Trump triumph portends economic uncertainty
As I watched Donald Trump arrive at an astounding victory election night, I was struck by his strong turnout in both rural and urban parts of the country. But I couldn’t stop thinking: Do voters understand what Trump’s sweep means for the price of eggs, housing and cars?
Support available for your child's education
If you are a parent of a student with special needs attending public school, did you know that you may qualify for around $5,500 to $8,000 in funding to support customizing your child’s education?
Flathead Electric retires capital credits
Members who purchased electricity in 2009 will receive capital credit payments in different ways.

Dyan E. Lawson, 80
Dyan E. Lawson, age 80, of Whitefish, MT passed away Nov. 13, 2024, surrounded by family.
Flathead Watercooler
Happenings related to business in the Flathead Valley
New year, new skipper for Range Riders
The Range Riders finished the 2024 season clinching their first postseason berth and were two games away from winning their first Pioneer League Championship in just their fourth season.
Legals for November, 17 2024

Judith A. 'Judy' Pearce, 79
Judy Pearce, 79, of Elmo, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, at St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease.

Nancy Sue Michels, 70
Nancy Michels was born in July of 1954 in Colorado to Ruthie and DW Smiley.

Bluebird Health expands to include imaging services
The low cost and easy access service at 104 Westview Park Place in Kalispell has already proven to be lifesaving for at least one patient.

An Indian family froze to death crossing the Canada-US border, a perilous trip becoming more common
On the last night of their lives, Jagdish Patel, his wife and their two young children tried to slip into the U.S. across a near-empty stretch of the Canadian border.
Law roundup: Antagonistic brothers nearly come to blows
A woman reportedly returned home to find her son had punched a hole in the wall and told him to leave, locking him out. She told a Kalispell Police Department officer that she was bringing his brother home, whom he did not get along with, and he was in town for a revocation hearing.

Kenneth A. Edwards, 96
Kenneth Alwood Edwards passed away on Oct. 15, 2024, peacefully in his sleep, at the age of 96.
Letters to the editor Nov. 17
Letters to the editor Nov. 17
Prep Football Scores
Class AA Semifinals: Friday, Nov. 15 Glacier 46, Gallatin 27 Helena Capital 35, Billings West 7
Philosophies of government predict policy
Shame on us. In our political discourse, we throw the “isms” around willy-nilly, without really discussing — or understanding — what they actually mean. Liberalism, socialism, Marxism, fascism, conservatism, libertarianism. At election time, we employ these labels to blast or to boast about a given candidate.

Talk is cheap. It’s time for Zinke to act on Glacier access
After years of tinkering with its vehicle reservation system, Glacier National Park has added yet another layer of red tape to visit Montana’s crown jewel next summer.

Scott King, 73
It is with deep loss and great sadness that we announce the passing of husband, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend, Scott King, 73, on Nov. 4, 2024, after a brief but determined fight with an inoperable brain tumor.
Grant aims to assist Glacier Gateway communities protect against wildfire
Flathead Electric Cooperative, Montana West Economic Development and the Flathead National Forest are collaborating on the Community Wildfire Defense Grant.

GOP legislators disappointed by approval of abortion rights measure
Republican legislators from Northwest Montana are expressing dismay over the approval of a ballot initiative that codifies the right to an abortion in the state constitution but submit there’s little recourse available to alter the outcome aside from a federal ban.
Saturday, November 16

Grizzlies sink Vikings, 28-17
MISSOULA — A game that featured power outages, injuries and red zone turnovers may not have been ideal for seniors in their final regular season home game, but the Montana Grizzlies prevailed over the Portland State Vikings 28-17 Saturday.

PHOTOS: Griz, Fife rally in second half for 28-17 win over Portland State
Photos from the Montana Grizzlies 28-17 win over the Portland State Vikings at Washington-Grizzly Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 16.

Glacier powers through the snow to down Gallatin
BOZEMAN — Glacier football is championship-bound once again.

Flurry of contract deals come as railroads, unions see Trump's election looming over talks
The flurry of contract agreements announced early this fall — including two more Wednesday — offer evidence that major railroads and their unions are working to avoid the standoffs that led them to a brink of a national strike two years ago.

The Frozen Chosen marks busy year assisting veterans
This past year, the Frozen Chosen dove into a project to remodel a home for a local veteran with disabilities.

Kalispell man serving suspended sentence for rape again accused of sexual assault
A convicted rapist given a suspended sentence in Flathead County District Court in 2023 is now facing the same charge in Lake County.
Friday, November 15

Judge hears case over Montana rule blocking trans residents from changing sex on birth certificate
A state judge in Montana heard arguments Thursday over policies that block transgender people from changing the sex designation on their birth certificates and driver's licenses.

Trump names Interior-designee Doug Burgum to head new White House council on energy
President-elect Donald Trump announced Friday that North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, his choice to head the Interior Department, will also lead a newly created National Energy Council that will seek to establish U.S. "energy dominance" around the world.
Cats and Griz football capsules
Portland St. at No. 10/11 Montana When: Saturday, 1 p.m.; TV — MTN. Web — ESPN+; Radio — Grizzly Radio Network

Big Sky Now: Will Bobcats remain undefeated?
The stakes are high this week in Big Sky football! In this episode, we break down the highly anticipated Montana State vs. UC Davis game, both teams riding impressive win streaks.
State voleyball: Valley teams drop openers
BOZEMAN — The State Volleyball Tournament was not kind to the Flathead Valley Thursday.
Flathead Electric Co-op schedules power outage for Nov. 21
Flathead Electric Cooperative and Bonneville Power Administration officials have scheduled a planned power outage in the canyon for Nov. 21.

Black-powder enthusiasts gather for Fort Connah Turkey Shoot
“Fire in the hole,” someone yelled as the ear-piercing crack of a black-powder rifle split the silence last Saturday at Fort Connah, north of St. Ignatius.

Aaron Charles Allen, 57
Aaron Charles Allen, April 12, 1967 — Nov. 9, 2024.

Dealership makes donation to Humane Society
The funds along with a number of cat and dog adoption kits will be used to help the society to place rescued pets into their “fur-ever” homes.
Law roundup: Decorative lights bring out neighbor’s inner Scrooge
story
Legals for November, 15 2024

Fish and Wildlife Commission adopts wolf trapping regulations for 2024-25 season
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted regulations for the upcoming wolf and furbearer trapping seasons on Tuesday that keep court-ordered rules for trapping wolves in place but include a permit process for some trappers and the removal of some setbacks on certain roads in Ravalli County.

Sandra 'Sandi' M. Van Aken, 78
On June 29, 1946, in Kalispell, Sandra "Sandi" M. Van Aken was born into a world she would eventually touch with her enduring kindness and strength.

Prep Football: Glacier, Gallatin set for epic semifinal rematch
A season ago Glacier punched its ticket to the state championship game with a 35-14 victory over Gallatin. Friday the Wolfpack will look to do it again
Group takes another run at initiative to cap Montana property taxes
A group that has repeatedly sought to advance ballot initiatives that would cap property tax growth on Montana homes said Wednesday that it is taking another run at the idea, proposing a constitutional amendment that could appear on the 2026 ballot if it survives likely legal challenges and qualifies via a signature drive.
State to host open house on Bridge Street Bridge replacement project in Bigfork
The Montana Department of Transportation will begin work to replace the Bridge Street Bridge with a new single-lane steel truss bridge this winter and is hosting an open house to celebrate the 100-year-old downtown fixture and share details about the upcoming project next week.

Kalispell Planning Commission grapples with public notice under new land use law
The Kalispell Planning Commission on Tuesday grappled with how to notify neighbors of impending development as the municipality falls in line with a state law aimed at limiting public input in land use decisions.
Federal funds available for nonprofits assisting with food and shelter needs
The United Way of Northwest Montana has been selected for a federal appropriation to the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program.
Thursday, November 14

Gianforte's proposed budget slashes state income tax
Gov. Greg Gianforte said Wednesday the biennial budget proposal he will submit to the 2025 Legislature will include the largest tax relief in Montana’s history, while focusing on investments in public safety, education and infrastructure.

Suspect arrested in police chase charged with dealing meth
A man arrested during an Election Day police chase through Kalispell is accused of dealing methamphetamine.

Whitefish High School theater presents 'Clue'
Whitefish High School theater presents "Clue" on Nov. 14, 15 and 16.

Kalispell teachers union considers contract proposal
Following months of negotiations, the Kalispell Public Schools board of trustees unanimously approved a collective bargaining agreement Tuesday that will go before the Kalispell Education Association for a vote Friday.

Barrow’s goldeneye: The quiet bird
As other ducks boisterously announce their presence quacking, whistling, and peeping in the small, forested lakes and ponds of northwestern United States, Canada, and Iceland, the handsome black and white Barrow’s goldeneye, a diving sea duck, floats silently upon the water.

Range Riders announce Todd Pratt as new manager
The Glacier Range Riders are proud to announce Todd Pratt as the new manager for the 2025 season. Pratt, who had a 14-year career as a catcher in the MLB, joins the Range Riders with a wealth of knowledge and experience from both his time as a player and as a coach.

Battling at The Brick: Volleyball teams head to Bozeman for state tourney
The All-Class State Volleyball Tournament gets underway at 10 a.m. Thursday, and Flathead Valley teams won’t waste any time getting warmed up at “The Brick,” as we call Brick Breeden Field House in Bozeman.
Is hunting always great?
When I return from a hunting trip, people frequently ask me, “How was hunting?” My response is almost always the same, “Hunting was great!”

‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’ set for Movie Night at the Museum
The groundbreaking film, “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” starring Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn and Sidney Poitier, will be shown for Movie Night at the Museum Nov. 19.

In Bigfork, good things keep arriving in 2s
One of the cool things about Ariel Putman’s time coaching Bigfork volleyball is that she has coached three sets of twins.

Concerts showcase the emotion of Nordic music
The evening features internationally renowned violinist Rachel Barton Pine as the soloist performing with the orchestra.
Solving housing crisis doesn't have to ruin our quality of life
Seldom have I read an opinion piece that represents my own thoughts so well as that of Travis Taylor as published in the Inter Lake on Nov. 4
Law roundup: Couple cry over spilled water
A man and woman, who had been drinking, separated from each other over spilled water.
Letters to the editor Nov. 14
Letters to the editor Nov. 14
Northwest Montana History Museum features authors during book festival
Readers and writers are invited to attend the first Northwest Montana Book Festival featuring regional authors and books Nov. 17 in Kalispell.

Man allegedly threatened to ‘shoot up' churches, had sniper nest on a property
A rural Columbia Falls man faces felony charges after he allegedly threatened to “shoot up” churches and kill a former partner.
Legals for November, 14 2024
Flathead High presents ‘Harriet the Spy’
Flathead High School Theatre brings the children’s classic, “Harriet the Spy,” to the stage Nov. 20 and 21.

Onset of rut to boost big game season
Montana’s general hunting season is hitting the midway point and wildlife officials say the overall harvest will increase with the onset of the deer breeding season.
The election is over. Let's go for a ride.
I bought my first Deuce and a Quarter in 1990 from Gail Lewis who was the cleanup man at the LP mill in Trout Creek.
Wednesday, November 13

Press Play with Wylie Gustafson Full Concert
In this unique live concert, renowned cowboy musician, and 4th generation Montanan, Wylie Gustafson brings soulful yodels, heartfelt cowboy poetry, and stories rooted in Montana’s rugged beauty.

Keeping Score: Intense volleyball matchups and football quarterfinal results
Intense volleyball matchups to Glacier Wolfpack’s thrilling 48-38 win over Butte.

Trump meets with Biden, pledges 'smooth' transition of power
Donald Trump made a victor's return to Washington on Wednesday, visiting the White House for a lengthy meeting with President Joe Biden and committing to a straightforward transition of power as the president-elect moves quickly to build out his new administration.

Republican John Thune of South Dakota is elected the next Senate majority leader
Republicans have elected South Dakota Sen. John Thune as the next Senate majority leader, completing a momentous shift in their leadership that elevates a top deputy of Mitch McConnell into a key position as President-elect Donald Trump returns to the White House.

Shelter WF housing design competition showcases fresh ideas
Shelter WF, a community nonprofit concerned with affordable housing in Whitefish, was awarded the AARP Community Challenge Grant in April and organized a housing design competition that sought ways to build missing middle housing.

Neighbors unhappy with subdivision near Columbia Falls, but state says developer following law
Members of a rural Columbia Falls homeowners association are raising concerns about a subdivision near Meadow Lake Resort, but the developer says it’s following state law and the state Department of Environmental Quality agrees.

John 'Jack' Wigmore, 81
Jack Wigmore, 81, passed peacefully on Nov. 4, 2024.

David R. Larson, 76
With full hearts, the family of David Rees Larson announces his peaceful passing on Nov. 7, 2024, at the age of 76.
Law roundup: Pranksters really stick a fork in it
A woman reportedly walked outside to find about 150 forks staked into her yard, tine side down, and called Kalispell Police Department, concerned it was a hate crime over a letter to the editor she penned before the election.

Students put finishing touches on mural for Libby's Peace Officer Park
The mural in Libby’s Peace Officer Park has been completed.
Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre holding auditions for ‘White Christmas’ musical
Auditions will be at Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre Afterschool Arts CENTER, 833 Grand Ave on Tuesday, Nov. 19. Grades 3-4 will audition from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m; grades 5-7 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Grades 8-12 and adults from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Flathead Warming Center supporters take to the streets to show solidarity with homeless population
The Flathead Warming Center on Monday organized a welcome-back celebration for shelter guests after reopening for overnight stays last week.

James Losleben, 71
James Roman Losleben, 71, known to many as Jim, passed away peacefully on Nov. 1, 2024, in Kalispell surrounded by family and close friends.
Legals for November, 13 2024

Civil rights investigation into Kalispell Public Schools involves softball schedules, district officials say
The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights has sought information about girls' softball schedules from Kalispell Public Schools as part of a Title IX athletics discrimination complaint, according to district officials.
Columbia Falls takes top spot at speech and debate tournament
Columbia Falls High School speech and debate swept up the competition on home turf this weekend.

Timed ticketed entry for Glacier National Park next summer brings mixed reactions
Glacier National Park’s decision to implement timed ticketed entry next summer drew mixed reviews from visitors and stakeholders, though officials say it will help further reduce congestion.
Hecla seeking new permit for Montanore Mine in Cabinet Mountains Wilderness
Idaho-based Hecla Mining is ready for another shot at operating the Montanore Mine, located south of Libby in the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness.

Single-hook restriction expanded for Flathead River
The state Fish and Wildlife Commission on Tuesday approved updated fishing regulations that include an expanded single-hook restriction on the Flathead River.
Tuesday, November 12

Kalispell's Matt Regier elected Senate president
Senate and House Republicans, selecting leaders who will preside over the 2025 Legislature, chose Senator-elect Matt Regier, R-Kalispell, as Senate president and Rep. Brandon Ler, R-Savage, as speaker of the House in caucuses Tuesday.

Local Events: Ski flick, book fest, ladies' night and Season of Soul
November in Montana means more than chilly mornings and snowy peaks; it’s a season full of community celebrations, cozy gatherings, and festive shopping events.

Poster Player of the Week: Banyan Johnston of Columbia Falls
This week’s poster player of the week presented by Corwin Motors in Kalispell is Banyan Johnston, a quarterback for the Columbia Falls Wildcats.

Kalispell Planning Commission begins work on new land use plan
The Kalispell Planning Commission will begin developing a new land use plan and regulations for the city on Tuesday.
Judge Allison served the county well
This letter is not about politics, or the election. (Lord, will I be glad when that is over...) Instead, this letter is a heartfelt thank you to a man who has served the people of our region honorably and faithfully since 1975, first as an attorney and then as 11th District Court judge.
Letters to the editor Nov. 12
Letters to the editor Nov. 12
Dispute over allegedly stolen camper lands 40-year-old in court
A dispute involving an allegedly stolen camper in late October netted a 40-year-old man felony and misdemeanor charges in Flathead County District Court.
Legals for November, 12 2024

John Patrick VanValkenburg, 64
John Patrick VanValkenburg, 64, passed away unexpectedly on Oct. 19, 2024, at his home in Kalispell.
Law roundup: Bat woman allegedly assaults man
A woman wielding a baseball bat allegedly attacked a man holding a chair as they took an argument into the streets.

Election Day in Flathead County went smoothly despite high turnout, officials say
Despite overwhelming voter turnout again this year, the general election in Flathead County went smoothly with the final ballot cast at 1 a.m., Nov. 6, election officials said.

Four Flathead Valley veterans receive award from Gianforte
Four veterans from the Flathead Valley were among those honored by Gov. Greg Gianforte with the 2024 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation on Monday.

Glen L. Brist, 77
Glen Brist, 77, died on Nov. 6, in an accident on his farm near Kila.

Montana Democrats face an underfunded future
At $273 million and counting, Montana’s just-ended 2024 U.S. Senate race is the state’s most expensive political race ever, and likely its last big-dollar federal election for the foreseeable future.
Monday, November 11

News Now: Key election results and police chase in Flathead Valley
We cover the latest election results, including significant wins in Flathead Valley and the passage of a historic constitutional amendment on abortion rights.

Fire knocks out Flathead Valley radio station's transmitter building
A fire engulfed local radio station KOFI’s AM transmitter building early Saturday morning.

Fire crews on both US coasts battle wildfires, 1 dead; Veterans Day ceremony postponed
POMPTON LAKES, N.J. (AP) — Fire crews on both coasts of the United States battled wildfires Monday, including a blaze in New York and New Jersey that killed a parks employee and postponed Veterans Day plans, and another in Southern California that destroyed more than 130 structures.

Kremlin rejects reports of a conversation last week between Putin and Trump
The Kremlin on Monday rejected reports that President Vladimir Putin spoke last week with President-elect Donald Trump about the war in Ukraine, and a spokesman for Trump refused to comment on what he called his "private calls" with world leaders.

Black and Latino men say they chose Trump because of economy
Brian Leija, a 31-year-old small-business owner from Belton, Texas, was not surprised that a growing number of Latino men of his generation voted for Donald Trump for president this year. Leija had voted for the Republican in 2016 and 2020.

Prep course drives Army's enlistment comeback
Index cards taped to a large board on the wall at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, reveal the sometimes blunt and gritty reasons that new recruits took a chance at a last-ditch program to get into the Army.
Letters to the editor Nov. 11
Letters to the editor Nov. 11
Law roundup: Sister’s joke falls flat with worried sibling
A sister’s health was no laughing matter for a woman who called the Kalispell Police Department after reportedly seeing a Facebook post that her sister “flatlined” and she couldn’t get a hold of her. She asked if officers would contact her with any updates.

Vet Center outreach coordinator assists veterans like himself
Vet Centers, under the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, nationwide offer community-based counseling for veterans and provide a connection to important resources.

Veterans Day events held through the Flathead Valley
There are several special events happening in the Flathead Valley to mark Veterans Day on Monday, Nov. 11.

Karen Fritz, 78
May 27, 1946 — November 5, 2024
Legals for November, 11 2024
Sunday, November 10

Aggies rally past Griz
UC Davis shook off a slow start with a fine finish Saturday, scoring the final 17 points of their Big Sky Conference showdown with Montana to beat the Grizzlies 30-14.

PHOTOS: Griz drop to 7-3 with 30-14 loss to UC Davis
Photos from the Montana Grizzlies 30-14 loss to the UC Davis Aggies at Washington-Grizzly Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 9.

Big Mountain Farm Stand brings European flair to St. Regis
Early in the morning as you pull up to Big Mountain Farm Stand along Highway 135 in St. Regis, there is almost an alpenglow of warmth beckoning you into the European-style hut. Inside the rounded arch wooden doorway, you’ll find a lovely collection of homemade and heartfelt creations to fill your pantry and serve at your dinner table.

Christine Dose, 73
Christine Marie (Martin) Dose, 73, went to rest in the arms of Jesus on Oct. 16, 2024, after a month's long battle with pneumonia.
DeBourg, Billings Central down Whitefish
BILLINGS — Jack DeBourg ran for four touchdowns — all in the first half — and Howie Martin threw for two scores as Billings Central down Whitefish 55-21 in a Class A quarterfinal football game Saturday night.

The cellphone: A helpful or harmful school tool?
In today’s connected world, smartphones can be as familiar a sight as laptops and textbooks in schools, yet the devices pose a unique set of challenges within the classroom.

New CASA volunteers sworn in
Each will work as a Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem for abused and neglected children for the 11th Judicial District.
Law roundup: Person takes extended test drive
Someone allegedly test-drove a 2005 Volkswagen Jetta and never returned.
Instead of cellphone ban, help kids build healthy habits
Gov. Greg Gianforte is making a push to establish cellphone-free schools across the state as evidence about the potentially unhealthy effects of excessive use among adolescents continues to pile up.
Letters to the editor Nov. 10
Letters to the editor Nov. 10
A bear for the ages
She was 28 years old and dealt with aplomb the hordes of picture-taking tourists and repeated motherhood. When she was killed by a car a few weeks ago, the loss of Grizzly 399 left people all over the world shocked and saddened.
Legals for November, 10 2024

Flathead Valley farmer sows powerhouse honeyberries
When David Dunn bought his property on Farm to Market Road in 2012, with his dog, Shayla, the land was raw and was hosting his neighbor’s cows.
Flathead business newsmakers
Announcements for Flathead Valley businesses

Peter 'Rocky' Graziano
Peter "Rocky" Graziano passed quietly from this life on Sept. 26, 2024, after a long battle with diabetes.

New district map helps Montana Democrats to legislative gains
Tuesday’s election, the first held with Montana’s newly drawn legislative district maps, saw Democrats pick up House and Senate seats in the state Legislature even as the party’s candidates were soundly rebuffed in elections for statewide and federal offices.
Montana State rushes for seven touchdowns in 49-7 romp over Sacramento State
Tommy Mellott and Julius Davis both had two of Montana State's seven rushing touchdowns and the Bobcats rolled to a 49-7 victory over Sacramento State on Saturday.

Douglas Franklin Tillett, 80
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Douglas Franklin Tillett, affectionately known as "Doug," who left us on Oct. 21, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Laurel stops Columbia Falls comeback
It was a runaway, and then it wasn’t, and eventually Laurel sealed a 35-28 Class A quarterfinal win over Columbia Falls Saturday on Isaiah Burt’s two-dragging interception with 1:19 left.
Flathead Watercooler
Happenings related to business
Finding value or lack thereof in treasured items
Flathead treasure hunters and keepers flocked to the Northwest Montana History Museum for the sixth Montana Antiques Appraisal Fair on Oct. 26. Organized by the Foundation for Montana History, the fair brings in expert appraisers once a year to a select venue for a day of engrossing infotainment.

Lorraine Gertrude Ondov, 99
Lorraine Gertrude Ondov, 99, was called home to her Lord and Savior on Oct. 8, 2024.

Marge Schauble, 90
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Marge Schauble, 90 of Columbia Falls — who died peacefully on Oct. 25, 2024.
The value of school trust lands
Montana now has more new residents defined as five years or so than old. That means perhaps that someone should tell the story of what is now spoken of as public lands as different from Glacier National Park, Yellowstone Park or state parks spread across Montana.

Dorothy Marie Sedivy, 80
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dorothy Marie Sedivy, who left this world peacefully on Nov. 3, 2024, at the age of 80.
Montana Democrats must clean the house or go extinct
If “democracy was at stake” in the election, I guess we can conclude that democracy is toast, saddle pals.
Saturday, November 9
Speed a suspected factor in fatal motorcycle crash near Kalispell
Excessive speed is a suspected factor in a motorcycle crash Friday that killed a 21-year-old Kalispell man.

West Valley home damaged in fire
No one was injured in a Rhodes Draw house fire Friday that drew a large response from area fire departments.

Another Montana elk tests positive for CWD
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials announced on Friday that an elk in southeast Montana tested positive for Chronic Wasting Disease. The elk was located on private land in Hunting District 704 north of the Custer National Forest.

Ronan business teacher wins state award
The annual Educators Conference, held Oct. 17-18, saw Ronan High teacher Heather Gray reconnecting with other teachers and career educators across Montana.But there was an added surprise: Gray was named Montana Career and Technical Educator for 2024.

Veteran coins designed at Montana State to help prevent suicide
A new set of challenge coins minted by the state of Montana — and designed by a Montana State University student — are intended to aid in preventing suicide among veterans.

Glacier subdues stubborn Butte 48-38
Butte made Glacier earn this one.
Friday, November 8

PHOTOS: Glacier advances with 48-38 win over Butte
Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack's 48-38 win over the Butte Bulldogs in a Class AA quarterfinal round playoff game at Legends Stadium on Friday, Nov. 8.

Justice Department brings criminal charges in Iranian murder-for-hire plan targeting Donald Trump
The Justice Department on Friday disclosed an Iranian murder-for-hire plot to kill Donald Trump, charging a man who said he had been tasked by a government official before this week's election with planning the assassination of the Republican president-elect.

Big Sky Now: Griz take on UC Davis; Can Bobcats roll over Sacramento State?
The panel breaks down the Montana Grizzlies’ critical game against UC Davis, where both defenses will be put to the test.

Janis Mary Ruff-Strait, 68
Janis Mary Ruff, 68, was born on Sept.20, 1956, in Kalispell, the third daughter of Ervin and Mary Ruff.
White admits to vehicular homicide of Arlee woman
Judge Molly Owen tentatively set sentencing for early February for a Butte woman who pleaded guilty to charges related to the hit-and-run death of 22-year-old Mika Westwolf.

League of their own
Dorcheus, Pack O-line combine for big gainers, mock league
Kobe Dorcheus has faced challenges all his life.
Community nurse receives Kalispell chamber’s highest honor
Several community members and businesses were honored during the evening.
Law roundup: Stray dogs leave caller howling at the moon
Barking mad about alleged wolf dogs on the prowl along Airport Road, a resident phoned the Kalispell Police Department hoping officers could do something about the canines. While the wolf dogs weren't out and about at that moment, they were carousing the night prior, they told officers. They wanted to know what the police planned to do about it.

Whitefish targets willow trees at Riverside Park for removal
The Whitefish Parks and Recreation Department is removing willow trees at Riverside Park this fall and replacing them with safer, more sustainable native tree species in the spring.
Legals for November, 8 2024
Cats, Griz Capsules
Sacramento St. at No. 2/2 Montana State

Native artist celebrates heritage for UM’s annual Nike N7-inspired design
MISSOULA – Kaylene Big Knife grew up playing in the hills of the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation in north central Montana. She remembers running with childhood friends along the sagebrush buttercups, picking juneberries and sledding down hills.

Bigfork Fire lieutenant faces sexual harassment allegations
A Bigfork Fire Department lieutenant is facing accusations of sexual harassment against female coworkers.
Volleyball: Glacier wins play-in; Flathead falls
The Glacier Wolfpack stayed perfect against the Butte Bulldogs Thursday, giving Kalispell one entrant into next week’s State AA volleyball tournament at Breeden Field House in Bozeman next week.

AA Football: Glacier, Butte meet for rematch at Legends Stadium
A lot can change in eight weeks, but the Glacier Wolfpack are hoping for a repeat of their performance against Butte in the AA football quarterfinals Friday at Legends Stadium.
Flathead, Glacier take to road with State at stake
Volleyball play-in games at Hellgate, Butte
Pass the jelly tree: While the Glacier Wolfpack gets to enjoy some home cooking this weekend, the football squads from Columbia Falls, Whitefish and Eureka are on the road.
Thursday, November 7

Judge lets Flathead Warming Center reopen amid pending lawsuit
A federal judge ruled on Thursday that the Flathead Warming Center can reopen for overnight stays while its lawsuit against the city of Kalispell winds through the court system.

Montana hunter shoots, kills charging grizzly bear
A grizzly bear was killed by a hunter on Saturday, Nov. 2 after an encounter south of Placid Lake in the Seeley-Swan Valley.

Glacier National Park to introduce timed vehicle reservations in 2025
Next year, Glacier National Park visitors who go through the west entrance of Going-to-the-Sun Road and the North Fork will be required to enter during a designated time block during ticketed entry.

Keeping Score: Playoff thrillers; football and volleyball highlights
This week’s episode, the soccer season comes to an end, volleyball starts divisionals and three football teams in the Valley advance to the second round.

Montanans back abortion amendment, nix election reform initiatives
Montanans on Tuesday voted 57% in favor of a constitutional amendment aimed at safeguarding abortion access in the state.

Smart drama explores relationship between genius, mental illness
Whitefish Theatre Company presents a Black Curtain Reading of “Proof” by David Auburn, winner of the Tony Award for Best Play and Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
Flathead, Glacier take to road with State at stake
Volleyball play-in games at Hellgate, Butte
For both Flathead and Glacier, extending the 2024 volleyball season comes down to a pair of road matches on Thursday.

GOP dominates Flathead races; two Democrats headed to Legislature
In what turned out to be a GOP-led rout in Montana in Tuesday’s election, voters in two Flathead Valley districts elected Democrats to the state Legislature, flipping a seat after redistricting.

Hockaday hosts unique video art installations in Landscapes Reimagined exhibit
Landscapes Reimagined an exhibit featuring video art installations by Rachel Rose and Rick Silva will be on display at the Hockaday Museum of Art beginning Nov. 8.

Kalispell man given suspended sentence for felony incest
Prosecutors initially charged Jeremy Michael Hoskin, 49, with two counts of felony incest and one count of tampering with or fabricating evidence. He struck a deal with prosecutors in May that saw him plead guilty to one count of incest by way of an Alford plea.

Brodehl retains seat as county commissioner
A retired fire chief, Brodehl was elected to the Montana Legislature serving until 2018 before first running for county commissioner.

Warren Miller movie ‘75’ showing In Whitefish
The Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation hosts two screenings of Warren Miller Entertainment's “75” Nov. 15 and 16 at the O’Shaughnessy Cultural Arts Center in Whitefish.

Gallery talk with FVCC instructor and photographer planned
Flathead Valley Community College’s art department is hosting a gallery talk and photography exhibit closing reception with instructor and photographer Jim Goudy Nov. 13.
Mennonite Church hosts annual gift festival
The festival runs Thursday, Nov. 14 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the church in Creston.
Rotary event focuses on Ukraine
The evening includes stories, award-winning photography, project demonstrations, and film that illuminate Ukraine’s history, culture, and spirit. Attendees will learn some of the ways Rotary International responds to critical humanitarian needs in Ukraine and around the world through local and global partnerships.
Law roundup: Special delivery seized
A package reportedly split on a delivery floor revealing the contents, which appeared to be marijuana.
Column: Key for Eureka is having a good, even great Day
OT header lifts Billings Central, 3-2
One of the factors behind Eureka’s long-term success on the high school gridiron is that coach Trevor Utter has been a middle school principal for 18 years.
Legals for November, 7 2024

This Country Music Thing Tour coming to Kalispell in January
Tickets are on sale to see MCA Nashville recording artist Josh Turner’s This Country Music Thing Tour at the Wachholz College Center in Kalispell Jan. 23, 2025.
Wolfpack Theatre Company presents 'Steel Magnolias'
“Steel Magnolias” will be presented at 6:33 p.m. on Nov.12, 13, and 14 in the Wolfpack Theatre at GHS.

Contemporary pottery on exhibit at Wanda Hollensteiner Art Gallery
An exhibit titled, Two Masters of Contemporary Pottery: Charlie Davis and Brad Fabel, will be on display Nov. 12 through Jan. 15 at the Wachholz College Center’s Wanda Hollensteiner Art Gallery.
Wednesday, November 6

Republican Tim Sheehy defeats Jon Tester for Senate seat
Republican Tim Sheehy bolstered the GOP's newly acquired Senate majority with a victory over three-term Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester in a contest of national importance that featured a record-setting torrent of spending by the two sides.

The latest Flathead County election results
The latest Flathead County election results

The latest: Montana statewide election results
Montana statewide election results with 550 of 727 precincts fully reported as of Wednesday, Nov. 6 at 5:30 p.m.

Trump wins the White House in political comeback
Donald Trump was elected the 47th president of the United States on Wednesday, an extraordinary comeback for a former president who refused to accept defeat four years ago, sparked a violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol, was convicted of felony charges and survived two assassination attempts.
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen wins reelection
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen won reelection Tuesday, defeating Democratic challenger Ben Alke. Knudsen had a 60% vote share to Alke’s 40% with 528,599 ballots counted. The attorney general made a speech at the Armory Hotel in Bozeman about the slate of Republican wins.

Silenced transgender state lawmaker Zooey Zephyr wins reelection in Montana
HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana state Rep. Zooey Zephyr won reelection in a race that will allow the transgender lawmaker to return to the House floor nearly two years after she was silenced and sanctioned by her Republican colleagues.

Swanson and Bidegaray win Montana Supreme Court seats
Judicial candidates Cory Swanson and Katherine Bidegaray claimed victory Wednesday in their respective races for two open seats on the Montana Supreme Court. Statewide vote counts showed them outstripping their respective competitors Jerry Lynch and Dan Wilson by margins of roughly eight percentage points.

Big Sky Now: Grizzlies make Big Sky history
Montana's Junior Bergen made history with a record-breaking punt return, sparking a major win for the Grizzlies over Cal Poly.

Zinke wins reelection, again defeating Tranel
Voters on Tuesday reelected Republican U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke to the U.S. House, as he again defeated challenger Monica Tranel for Montana's western district seat.

Police chase through Kalispell ends with arrest
Eric Appl is being held on pending felony charges and outstanding warrants following the pursuit, said Kalispell Police Department officials in a statement.

Free pizza and a DJ help defrost Montana voters lined up until 4 a.m. in the snow to vote
Waiting to vote tested the willpower of hundreds of people in an hourslong line that stretched outside a county courthouse in a Montana town. Polls closed at 8 p.m. in Bozeman, Montana, but the last ballot wasn't cast until 4 a.m.
Legals for November, 6 2024
Law roundup: Suspicions grow when passerby reads the leaves
A man allegedly pulled up to a location in an old Ford Ranger truck and parking incorrectly got out and started picking up piles of leaves with a shovel and dumping them in a garbage can, making the trip three times.

Flathead County voters cited abortion, economy and immigration as top concerns
Overcast skies and spitting rain did little to deter voters from funneling into the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell to cast their ballots in person on Tuesday.

Hugh 'Sig' S. Scigliano, 84
Hugh "Sig" S. Scigliano, known to his grandchildren as "Papa Mustache," passed peacefully at home in Henderson, Nevada, on Oct. 25, 2024, surrounded by his beloved family, at the age of 84.

Kalispell City Council approves Tronstad Road subdivisions
Kalispell City Council on Monday gave the go ahead to the Tronstad Meadows and Whitetail Crossing residential projects, two highly contested subdivisions along Tronstad Road.
Tuesday, November 5

Abortion rights supporters lose on Florida ballot measure, but win in 3 other states
WASHINGTON (AP) — Florida voters Tuesday rejected creating a constitutional right to abortion, a political win for Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis that will keep in place the state's ban on most abortions after the first six weeks of pregnancy.

Gov. Gianforte wins a second term over challenger Ryan Busse
Montana Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte won a second four-year term Tuesday, defeating Democratic challenger Ryan Busse.

AP Race Call: Donald Trump wins Montana
Former President Donald Trump won Montana for the third consecutive election on Tuesday, adding four electoral votes to his tally.

Trump snaps at reporter when asked about abortion: 'Stop talking about that'
PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Donald Trump is refusing to say how he voted on Florida's abortion measure — and getting testy about it.

Big game harvest trends ahead of last season
The general deer and elk hunting season is underway in Montana, and game check station results are outpacing last year for harvested deer across northwest Montana.

3-term Democratic lawmaker tries to hold key US Senate seat in GOP-friendly Montana
BILLINGS (AP) — Three-term incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Jon Tester of Montana faces perhaps his toughest reelection challenge yet on Tuesday, with control of the Senate on the line in a state that's veered sharply rightward since the 68-year-old grain farmer's first election.

Montana Rep. Zooey Zephyr must win reelection to return to the House floor after 2023 sanction
HELENA (AP) — Montana state Rep. Zooey Zephyr is seeking reelection in a race that could allow the transgender lawmaker to return to the House floor nearly two years after she was silenced and sanctioned by her Republican colleagues.

Gianforte and Zinke seek to continue Republican dominance in Montana elections
HELENA (AP) — Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte is heavily favored for reelection over a political newcomer, while U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke faces a stiffer challenge from a veteran campaigner as the Republican incumbents seek to continue their party's political dominance in the Big Sky state.
Prediction: Split-ticket voters will decide the election
The polls are so close, only a fool would predict the results of Tuesday’s election. So, here’s my prediction.

After all the talk, Election Day voting is going mostly smoothly
WASHINGTON (AP) — Election Day voting unfolded largely smoothly across the nation Tuesday but with scattered reports of extreme weather, ballot printing errors and technical problems causing delays.
Law roundup: Woman asks police to analyze vitamin bottle
Someone reportedly brought a bottle of vitamins to the police department to inspect, concerned it had been tampered with, and the store might need to recall the product, after opening it to find an “odd powder” inside and on the cap that they thought was fentanyl.
Former assisted living facility worker pleads guilty to stealing pain medication from patients
A 39-year-old Idaho woman accused of stealing pain medication from patients while working at an assisted living facility in Kalispell in 2023 pleaded guilty in federal court last week.
Kalispell man dies after crash near Lakeside
story

Voters in Flathead County head to polls for Election Day
Election Day is Nov. 5.
Legals for November, 5 2024
Unwavering belief in the American people
“Before all else, the people have a right to an electoral system free of shenanigans and capable of yielding honest, responsible, and responsive government open to all and shaped to meet the needs of all.” — Mike Mansfield, 1974
Glacier speech and debate wins first tournament of the season
The Glacier High School speech and debate team earned its first win of the 2024-25 season over the weekend at the Kalispell Kickoff.
Monday, November 4

Poster Player of the Week: Lauren Bissen & Owen Thiel of Glacier
Sophomore Lauren Bissen and junior Owen Thiel both finished on the podium in third place for the girls and boy's AA Class individual races at the state cross country championships at Missoula.

Headlines: Bird flu found in Flathead Valley, Holland Lake Lodge contract, and Kalispell City Council on cruising
Bird flu found in Flathead County, contract in place for Holland Lake Lodge sale, and Kalispell City Council drops downtown cruising ordinance

Harris and Trump are making a furious last-day push before Election Day
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — A presidential campaign that has careened through a felony trial, an incumbent president being pushed off the ticket and multiple assassination attempts comes down to a final sprint across a handful of states on Election Day eve.

Musk PAC tells Philadelphia judge the $1 million sweepstakes winners are not chosen by chance
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — A lawyer for Elon Musk 's political action committee told a judge in Philadelphia on Monday that so-called "winners" of his $1 million-a-day voter sweepstakes in swing states are not chosen by chance but are instead chosen to be paid "spokespeople" for the group.

Whitefish City Council talks housing
Whitefish City Council on Monday will hold a discussion regarding community housing as it provides feedback to the municipality’s housing committee.
Births
Births
Letters to the editor Nov. 4
Letters to the editor Nov. 4
Law roundup: Angry bicyclist pulls political sign out of yard
A bicyclist wearing a neon green helmet allegedly got off his bike and walked into a woman’s yard where he pulled up a political campaign sign and threw it down. When confronted ...

Sheehy, Tester make final pitches to Montanans
U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, senatorial candidate Tim Sheehy and a host of candidates for elected office made their final pitches to voters in the last weekend before Election Day.

Kalispell City Council expected to again take up proposed Tronstad subdivisions
A pair of residential developments on Tronstad Road that have drawn the ire of neighbors will be back before Kalispell City Council on Monday night.

Thomas 'Pinky' Jackson, 81
Tom was born in Kalispell on Nov. 10, 1942, to Tom and Bonnie (Goldhammer) Jackson.

Tribute to a champ: Darryl Dupuis inducted to Montana Indian Athletic Hall of Fame
Although Darryl Dupuis is most noted as a standout football player and coach, two champion wrestlers nominated him for the Montana Indian Athletic Hall of Fame.
Consider the costs of growth
Ponder for a moment the Montana way of life. What does that mean to you? What comes to mind? Wide open spaces? A simpler, more rural, and more fulfilling way of life?
Sunday, November 3

Endangered Species Act wielded in the courtroom
Keith Hammer is no stranger to litigation.
Fighting for the Montana we love
I’m Jon Tester. I’ve lived down a long dirt road outside of Big Sandy all my life, where I still farm the same land my grandparents homesteaded more than 100 years ago.
Law roundup: Man gets spooked by repeated park encounters
A man called the Kalispell Police Department reportedly worried that he was being stalked by a man he encountered in Woodland Park when he spotted him again three days later at the same park.
Legals for November, 3 2024
Meetings to discuss conservation easements in Northwest Montana
The upcoming meetings are required annually by the conservation easement agreements and provide a forum for discussion of any issues related to public use, land use, access issues, conditions, or other unanticipated issues involving conservation easement lands.

New Flathead Valley nonprofit looks to create communal making place
The Making Place, a newly formed nonprofit in Flathead Valley, is striving to create a community makerspace for artists, makers and creators of all kinds.
Flathead Business Watercooler
Happenings related to business in the Flathead Valley
How to temper discourse and bridge the political abyss
Some unfortunate trash talk has dominated the political conversation as the election season enters the home stretch.
Letters to the editor Nov. 3
Letters to the editor Nov. 3
Lions Lytle, Johnson run over Scotties
GLASGOW — Rogan Lytle scored two touchdowns, one off a fumble return, and Haiden Johnson found the end zone three times Saturday as Eureka downed Glasgow 35-14 in a Class B first-round playoff game.

Allen Wayne Himsl, 82
Allen Wayne Himsl, 82, cherished husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather, died peacefully surrounded by family at Logan Health Medical Center, Friday, Oct. 25, 2024.

Whitefish falls in A soccer title match
OT header lifts Billings Central, 3-2
BILLINGS — The Bulldogs struck first, but the Rams rallied back.

Two more lawsuits filed in connection to Flathead County E. coli outbreak
Two new lawsuits were filed last week in connection with this summer’s deadly E. coli outbreak in the Flathead Valley, making six in total.

Bradley W. Nimmick, 77
Bradley W. Nimmick, 77, was born on March 5, 1947, in Great Falls. He passed away suddenly on Oct. 27, 2024, at his home in Great Falls due to a massive cardiac event.
EV mandate will have concerning impact
In March, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized the nation’s most stringent tailpipe emissions rules to date — a move that has been met with much pushback.

Ann Goldthwait
Ann Goldthwait died Sept. 3, 2024. At home in Sheridan, Montana.
Government should put Montanans first
With the election and the next legislative session upon us, Montanans have a right to know where Democrats stand and how we will work with families and small businesses to create a better, stronger future for our children.

Nee Pouliot, 97
Nyalva "Nee" Pouliot, 97 and a half of Nyack, Montana, departed this earth, Oct. 28, 2024.

Good Girls Bookshop: Kalispell's new community space for readers
While the store is a retail shop, half of its space is reserved as a Book Club, which has couches, tea, coffee and more for booklovers to utilize when they host their own book club or just have a spare hour in the middle of the day.

Montana State scientists study how wild oats become resistant to herbicides
With new funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, scientists in Montana State University’s Department of Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology will seek to fill knowledge gaps surrounding an agricultural weed that has caused problems for Montana producers for decades.

PHOTOS: Chasing autumn down the Middle Fork
Snow-dusted summits rise up to fill the sky above hillsides covered in a vibrant tapestry of bright orange and yellow larches as the Middle Fork Flathead River weaves its way through John Stevens Canyon.
Saturday, November 2
Mellott parts red sea, Cats put away Eastern
CHENEY, Wash. — Eastern Washington’s rally was over in 14 seconds.
Griz explode late in 42-7 win at Cal Poly
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. — Logan Fife and Keali’i Ah Yat each threw a scoring pass and Junior Bergan’s 84-yard punt return sparked a late scoring burst as the No. 8 Montana Grizzlies downed Cal Poly 42-7 in Big Sky Conference football Saturday.

Meals on Wheels seeks volunteers in Columbia Falls
Karene Manus loads the food into her truck and is off. She has deliveries to make on this sunny Friday. Today she will visit nine housebound older folks who rely on her for their weekend meals.
Last-minute Gulick TD lifts Whitefish over Bigfork
This one will be talked about for years to come.

Johnston accounts for 5 TDs in C-Falls win
COLUMBIA FALLS — Quarterback Banyan Johnston accounted for five touchdowns as the Columbia Falls Wildcats advanced to the second round of the playoffs with a 42-16 home victory over the Corvallis Blue Devils Friday night.

Feds finalize rule for critical mineral extraction tax credit, benefitting Sibanye-Stillwater
The federal government last week finalized rules for a manufacturing tax credit aimed at boosting U.S. clean energy and critical mineral production, which should benefit the Sibanye-Stillwater mine near Columbus, which is expected to lay off about 700 workers in the next two weeks in part because of a market flooded with Russian palladium.
Friday, November 1

Big Sky Now: Week 10 predictions
The Hagadone Sports Network team takes you through this week’s action-packed matchups, predictions, and playoff implications in the Big Sky Conference,

US employers added just 12,000 jobs last month as hurricanes and strikes sharply reduce payrolls
WASHINGTON (AP) — America's employers added just 12,000 jobs in October, a total that economists say was held down by the effects of strikes and hurricanes that left many workers temporarily off payrolls. The report provided a somewhat blurry view of the job market at the end of a presidential race that has pivoted heavily on voters' feelings about the economy.

Man who killed eagles on a Native American reservation gets nearly 4 years in prison
MISSOULA (AP) — A Washington state man accused of leading a wildlife trafficking ring on a Native American reservation that killed thousands of eagles and hawks to sell on the black market was sentenced Thursday to nearly four years in prison.

14-year-old suspect arrested in connection with Kalispell shooting
Authorities arrested a 14-year-old on a pending attempted deliberate homicide charge following a Halloween shooting in Kalispell that left another teenager hospitalized.
Law roundup: Rifle-toting cyclist causes consternation
A cyclist wearing a military-style helmet, gloves and chest protection with a rifle allegedly slung on his back raised eyebrows near Rose Crossing. Callers told the Kalispell Police Department the man riding the black e-bike on sidewalks, headed west along Rose Crossing. Officers met up with the man, who explained he was checking weight distribution and was headed home.
Legals for November, 1 2024

Natural migration and federal protections aided Northwest Montana's wolf recovery
A female gray wolf stepped over the Candian border and into Montana 45 years ago. Her name was Kishinena.

Bulldog Determination
Carson Gulick found his spot: as Whitefish QB
It was the summer of 2023 and Carson Gulick was at a crossroads.
Whitefish boys soccer heads to Billings with a title in mind
A rematch with everything to play for.

Urban foresters urge homeowners in Kalispell to water their trees
City crews in Kalispell cut down 40 trees this year that had dried up due to a lack of water and officials are asking residents to aid the struggling perennial plants.
Letters to the editor Nov. 1
Letters to the editor Nov. 1
Lions on 464-mile hunt for playoff win
The Eureka Lions’ reward for dropping a pair of Western B football conference games — a rare occurrence around this corner of Montana — is a quick trip to Glasgow.
Class A Playoffs: Rematch Central
Playoff football is upon us — yes Jim Mora, we are talking about the Playoffs.

Kalispell speech and debate teams ready to talk the talk
Flathead High School is looking to defend its state championship title in speech and debate against top rival and 2024 state runner-up, Bozeman, and fellow Kalispell team, Glacier High School as a new season begins.