Ellington

Fantastic finish: Braves get 1st league win on last-gasp 3

A delay call gave Flathead the ball back with 19 seconds left in the game down one, but all Dustyn Franchini-White needed was three seconds.

Big Sky Now: Basketball playoff race heats up, Brawl of the Wild, and tournament predictions

This week on Big Sky Now, hosts Josh Amick and Jon Allen from the Daily Inter Lake break down Montana’s thrilling 89-85 win over Montana State in the Brawl of the Wild and what it means for the conference standings.

Trump makes US copper mining a focus of his domestic minerals policy

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — President Donald Trump is taking a step toward granting the U.S. mining industry's biggest wishes by singling out one metal as a focus of his domestic minerals policy: copper.

Poster Player of the Week: Austin Savik of Bigfork High School

This week's poster player of the week goes to Austin Savik of the Bigfork Vikings.

Big Sky women: MSU wins 19th straight; UM wins

BOZEMAN — Down two starters Montana State went to its strengths, defense and depth, and beat Portland State 78-49 on Thursday night to capture a piece of a Big Sky Conference title.

From the ashes: The day Noxon burned down

Jim Byler can’t remember off the top of his head when the first call came in.

Hellgate girls pull away from Bravettes

MISSOULA — Paisly Johnson and Elly Reed scored 16 points each as Missoula Hellgate defeated Flathead 53-43 in Western AA girls basketball Thursday evening.

Sentinel boys power past Glacier

MISSOULA — Lincoln Rogers scored 17 points and Sentinel teammate Carson Towe added 13 as the Spartans downed Glacier 55-40 in Western AA boys basketball Thursday evening.

Wolfpack girls crush Sentinel, earn play-in berth

MISSOULA — Reese Ramey scored a game-high 17 points and Glacier pulled away from Sentinel in the fourth quarter to claim a 65-34 victory in Western AA girls basketball Thursday.

Whitefish teacher receives kidney from local parent

After seven and a half years of battling polycystic kidney disease, Whitefish Middle School teacher Sean Duff was donated a kidney by local parent Janelle Hansen last month, and both are recovering well.

Kalispell Public Schools narrows list of layoffs

On Tuesday, Kalispell Public Schools provided a progress report of where it is on the timeline of notifying staff about eliminated positions to balance a $2.9 million budget shortfall.

Polson boys top Libby; Bigfork stuns Whitefish

POLSON — Malakai Curley scored a game-high 14 points and Polson pulled away from Libby in the second half for a 53-39 win in a Northwest A boys basketball play-in game Thursday evening.

Polson girls down Whitefish

POLSON — Aleysia Black and Rylee Taylor-Jefferson scored nine points each as Polson used a strong first half to defeat Whitefish 38-29 in a Northwest A girls basketball play-in game Thursday evening.

Bill incentivizing sale of Montana-produced foods moves through the House

House Bill 440, sponsored by Rep. Jane Weber, D-Great Falls, lays out a pilot program that would provide tax incentives for the sale of Montana-produced food. The bill passed with an amendment to add a sunset date in 2031.

Columbia Falls could add another police officer for DUI patrols

Columbia Falls will look to add another full-time DUI and patrol officer to its ranks.

Duchien leads Florence over Eureka

HAMILTON — Brody Duchien scored 20 points and Florence downed Eureka 70-36 at the Western B Divisional boys basketball tournament Thursday.

Kristy Hanson, 67

Kristy Ann Hanson, 67, passed away from metastatic lung cancer on Dec. 1, 2024, in Helena, with her daughter by her side.

Phillip Guiffrida Jr., 73

Phillip "Phil" Guiffrida Jr., 73, was welcomed into heaven on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories.

Lady Lions fall; Breakers Laird scores 38 at Western B

HAMILTON — Higher seeds Mission, Florence, Missoula Loyola and Thompson Falls were all first-round winners at the Western B Divisional girls basketball tournament Thursday.

Big Sky men: Griz win, Bobcats fall

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Brandon Whitney's 18 points helped Big Sky Conference leader Montana defeat Sacramento State 60-54 on Thursday.

Law roundup: Animal cruelty investigation uncovers pampered pup

Called out to investigate a report of a pet left out in the cold without food or water, officers with the Kalispell Police Department instead discovered a "rather plump" dog. They spotted a wooden shack for the dog situated on the home's porch, complete with a bed.

William Alexander ‘Lex’ Blood, 91

Lex Blood, 91, set off on his final great adventure on Feb. 13, 2025, in Kalispell.

Father accused of threatening son enters into deferred prosecution agreement

Prosecutors charged Stephen Michael Halley with felony assault with a weapon in Flathead County District Court following the Aug. 5, 2023 confrontation on the 200 block of First Street West in Columbia Falls.

Legals for February, 28 2025

Lillian (Spilde) Hammer, 89

Lillian (Spilde) Hammer, 89, was born Sept. 30, 1935, to Chauncey Spilde and Theresa (Hage) Spilde of North Prairie, rural Velva, North Dakota

Friends, family reflect on the legacy of Flathead Valley conservationist 'Lex' Blood

William “Lex” Blood had only lived in the Flathead Valley a few years when the first Cabinet Creek mines threatened to poison Northwest Montana waterways, but the former miner quickly became an unlikely hero when he led the effort to stall the projects.

Dankers resigns as Glacier wrestling coach

Ross Dankers, the wrestling coach at Glacier High School the last 12 seasons, has resigned from that position, Glacier activities director Mark Dennehy announced Thursday.

Double-Koss'd: Siblings lead Lions, Lady Lions

It figured that the Eureka Lions boys basketball team, coming off an 18-6 season bolstered by seven seniors, would get younger.

Column: Fulfilling trip to Western B for Trojans

When Cody Orr was asked the last time the Troy boys basketball team made divisionals, he understandably hit a bit of a dead zone.

Montana Legislature green lights Medicaid expansion

A Republican proposal to leave current levels of Medicaid coverage in place in Montana is headed to the governor's desk as Congress considers billions of dollars in cuts to the low-income health program.

E Hele Mai i Kauaʻi: Escape Winter and Find Aloha on the Garden Isle

Aloha kākou! If the cold winds of winter have you dreaming of sunshine and warm ocean breezes, it’s time to listen to your naʻau (gut, intuition) and head to Kauaʻi.

Flathead County Library looks to build new Kalispell branch on mall property

Flathead County Library officials signed a letter of intent Thursday to purchase several acres of property at the Kalispell Center Mall for a future branch for the municipality.

Keeping Score: Valley basketball teams struggle, standout performances and playoff push begins

This week we have basketball and more basketball as swimming and wrestling have ended, so without further ado let’s get into this week's hoop highlights.

DREAM's Shred Fest fundraiser is March 22

DREAM Adaptive Recreation hosts its 6th annual Shred Fest on March 22, at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

'Threads' exhibit at UM museum ponders heritage through female lens

The exhibition was inspired by a retreat hosted by the Montana Art Education Association in spring 2022 at UM.

Dale Rodger Butts, 89

Dale Roger Butts, 89, was born to Harry and Iola Butts Dec. 12, 1935, in Eureka, and then with a smile on his face, closed his eyes for the last time Feb. 12, 2025, in Kalispell.

Luke Dowler dives deep with new album “Midnight Conversations”

The album, released in 2024, includes 11 tracks that peer into an intimate moment between a friend, family member or lover.

KMS follows the Yellow Brick Road in production of 'The Wizard of Oz'

More than 50 students make up the cast, with just as many working behind the scenes to create scenery, props, and costumes, as well as manage the technical aspects of the show.

Letters to the editor Feb. 27

Letters to the editor Feb. 27

Montana Senate considers bills to reshape state Supreme Court administration

The Senate Judiciary Committee rejected the idea of appointing the Clerk of the Montana Supreme Court as a nonpartisan position, but during the same meeting supported changing another position, the court’s chief administrator, to guard against political influence.

Emergency responder levy showing returns, say fire and police officials in Kalispell

Just shy of a year since voters approved a levy to boost Kalispell’s emergency services, the city’s Police and Fire departments are beginning to ramp up.

Law roundup: Nonprofit bus graffitied

A woman called the Kalispell Police Department saying she was the director of Coats for Kids and had received third-hand information their bus was covered with graffiti.

Justin Gronley, 23

Justin Carter "J" Gronley, 23, passed away on Feb. 20, 2025, in Kalispell, surrounded by family and friends.

Father accused of assaulting son with belt

A man accused of taking a belt to his son in 2020 is expected to be arraigned Thursday on one count of felony assault on a minor.

Supporters argue bills to expand Best Beginnings would support children, families, economy

Child care workers often end up stuck because of their low wages — earning too much to qualify for a program that aims to help them, but not earning enough to afford child care on their own.

Tickets on sale to see country rock legend Jim Messina

Country Rock legend Jim Messina is coming to the Wachholz College Center April 30.

Legals for February, 27 2025

Cuts undermine vital research

We are scientists from the University of Montana’s Flathead Lake Biological Station where our research and facilities have long been supported by grants from the National Science Foundation, the Department of the Interior, NASA and other federal agencies.

Montana needs thoughtful solutions

As global headlines remind us of the delicate balance between crisis and resilience — whether in the face of geopolitical uncertainty abroad or natural disasters closer to home — Montanans are having their own conversations about preparedness, opportunity and responsibility.

State should follow Elon Musk’s lead on simplifying hunting regs

Wow, can you believe the beautiful weather we had last weekend? My truck thermometer registered 50 degrees.

Alleged culprit in theft of ATVs faces felony charges

The man allegedly behind a string of thefts in the spring of 2024 is facing multiple felonies in Flathead County District Court.

Flathead County enacts seasonal weight restrictions on county roads

Flathead County commissioners on Wednesday approved seasonal weight restrictions for select county roads in response to recent rapid temperature fluctuations and precipitation.

Facing Joy exhibit features abstract portraits

Kalispell artist Laura Joy Baldwin returns to Phillips Gallery with her new exhibit, Facing Joy.

Warming Center and Kalispell reach agreement

The Flathead Warming Center will be allowed to remain open if a settlement agreement struck with the city of Kalispell on Tuesday is authorized by city councilors.

Dangerously warm temperatures create ‘magnificent’ avalanches

A drastic winter thaw has created dangerous avalanche conditions in Northwest Montana as temperatures rose to the mid-40s and rain and snow fell over the weekend.

Fabric and craft retailer Joann to go out of business and close all of its stores

Fabric and crafts retailer Joann Inc., which has been a destination for generations of quilters, knitters and lovers of crafts projects for more than 80 years, is going out of business and shuttering all its stores.

Senators back Indigenous Peoples’ Day legislation

Salish and Kootenai Sen. Shane Morigeau said the conversation around recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Montana has changed over the years.

Ukraine's Zelenskyy says framework economic deal with US is ready but security guarantees undecided

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — The framework of an economic deal with the United States is ready, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday, but it does not yet offer U.S. security guarantees that Kyiv views as vital for its war against the Russian invasion.

An unvaccinated child has died in the Texas measles outbreak

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) — A child who was not vaccinated has died from measles in West Texas, the first death in an outbreak that began late last month and the first from measles in the U.S. since 2015.

Ralph LeRoy Lamberson, 75

Ralph LeRoy Lamberson, 75, passed from this world to begin his journey to the spirit world on Feb. 9, 2025, surrounded by family.

Kalispell City Council poised to fast track sewage plant upgrades

Kalispell city councilors appeared in agreement Monday to adopt a plan to fast-track upgrades to the municipality’s wastewater treatment plant and could vote on it as soon as Council’s next meeting.

Hellgate girls hold off Glacier’s late charge

The Wolfpack girls took it to the No. 1 team in Western AA, but in the end Hellgate held on.

Annual Free the Seeds focuses on gardening and food

The event also includes information about seed saving, gardening and sustainable living.

House GOP passes bill restricting Montana voters of “unsound mind”

A House bill to impose new restrictions on voters of “unsound mind" could affect hundreds of patients in the Montana State Hospital and other state-run facilities.

Allen Harry Burgess, 77

Allen Harry Burgess, 77

Law roundup: An allegedly hands-on woman barred from premises

A woman went to Kalispell Police Department upset that she was allegedly kicked out of a location for “patting someone’s bottom” and wanted to press charges for “wrongful termination.”

Legals for February, 26 2025

Somers-Lakeside School District hires new superintendent

Alexander Ator is set to replace Somers-Lakeside School District Superintendent Joe Price, who retires at the end of the school year.

Gateway Community Center expands children’s library offerings

Formerly known as the Gateway West Mall, what was once a business epicenter for Kalispell’s west side sat mostly empty for several years until the United Way seized on an opportunity to turn the building into a dedicated resource for nonprofit organizations purchasing the building in 2015.

Sandra Jo Shaffer, 77

Sandra Jo Nielsen Shaffer passed away on Feb. 22, 2025, in Kalispell after struggling with cancer, while surrounded by her family that loves her dearly.

C-Falls girls shut down Polson

POLSON — Rylee Sweeney and Taryn Borgen scored 12 points each and Columbia Falls held Polson to 12 second half points as the Wildkats picked up a 51-34 victory in Northwest A girls basketball Tuesday.

Sant’s shot sinks Wolfpack

MISSOULA — Easton Sant’s buzzer-beating fadeaway jumper lifted Missoula Hellgate over Glacier 49-47 in Western AA boys basketball Tuesday

Vikings, Wildcats close regular season with wins

WHITEFISH — Austin Savik poured in 25 points to lead four Bigfork players in double figures, and the Vikings pulled away to beat Whitefish 69-51 in Northwest A boys basketball Tuesday.

Next phase of large conservation easement up for review

The new easement would encompass forestlands in the Cabinet Mountains between Kalispell and Libby.

Bravettes complete the comeback on senior night

On senior night, Flathead sophomore Grace Gall kept the team afloat with her game-high 24 points until seniors Ava Malmin and Mattie Thompson sealed the win.

Ukraine and US have agreed on a framework economic deal, Ukrainian officials say

Ukraine and the U.S. have reached an agreement on a framework for a broad economic deal that would include access to Ukraine's rare earth minerals, three senior Ukrainian officials said Tuesday.

Southwest Airlines flight abruptly rises to avoid another plane crossing Chicago runway

Pilots on a Southwest Airlines flight attempting to land at Chicago's Midway Airport were forced to climb back into the sky to avoid another aircraft crossing the runway.

House GOP pushes 'big' budget resolution to passage, a crucial step toward delivering Trump's agenda

With a push from President Donald Trump, House Republicans sent a GOP budget blueprint to passage Tuesday, a step toward delivering his "big, beautiful bill" with $4.5 trillion in tax breaks and $2 trillion in spending cuts despite a wall of opposition from Democrats and discomfort among Republicans.

University of Montana conducting ‘compliance audit’ in response to ‘Dear Colleague’ letter

The University of Montana last week directed leaders of all campus operations to conduct a thorough review of their programs and activities for compliance with new legal guidance from the U.S. Department of Education — the latest in a series of evolving developments around President Donald Trump’s fast-paced agenda to rid the federal government of “woke” policies.

Prosecutors drop battery charges against woman dragged out of Idaho town hall

City revokes security company’s business license

COEUR d’ALENE — City prosecutors will dismiss a misdemeanor battery citation issued to the Post Falls woman who plainclothes private security guards dragged out of a legislative town hall Saturday, and the city of Coeur d’Alene has revoked the security company’s business license.

Montana Legislature set to extend Medicaid amid federal uncertainty

Despite concerns about what Congress and the Trump administration might have planned for Medicaid, Montana’s Republican-led Legislature and GOP governor appear ready to keep the state’s Medicaid expansion program in place beyond its scheduled end date this summer.

Summer program to help Montana children with food cut from state budget

A legislative subcommittee voted Friday to cut $20 million of mostly federal money for the biennium out of the state budget for a summer lunch program for children.

Legals for February, 25 2025

Albert Gene Rodgers, 78

Albert "Gene" Rodgers, 78, of Columbia Falls, passed away on Feb. 19, 2025, surrounded by family.

Man suspected of murdering girlfriend before shooting at cops in Polson

The man arrested in Lake County for allegedly shooting at a Polson Police officer on Feb. 14 had earlier murdered his girlfriend, prosecutors allege.

Woman dragged from GOP town hall in Coeur d'Alene calls removal 'traumatic'

COEUR d’ALENE — A legislative town hall organized by the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee devolved into chaos Saturday when unidentified, plainclothes security personnel dragged a Post Falls woman from the Coeur d’Alene High School auditorium for heckling legislators.

Letters to the editor Feb. 25

Letters to the editor Feb. 25

Expand coverage for obesity treatments

As a dentist in my professional life, I have the responsibility of making sure my patients maintain great oral health and overall health.

Law roundup: Woman goes on shoe shopping spree with five-finger discount

A woman in her 40s with brown-red hair reportedly left a store toting a black bag containing about $210 worth of stolen footwear and then drove away in a silver Honda.

Stock market today: Wall Street holds steadier but still falls following last week's tumble

U.S. stocks drifted lower following their sharp losses from last week. The S&P 500 fell 0.5% Monday after flipping between small gains and losses through the day. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.1%, and the Nasdaq composite dropped 1.2%. Nvidia fell ahead of its profit report coming later this week and was the heaviest weight on the market.

Fabric and craft retailer Joann to go out of business and close all of its stores

Fabric and crafts retailer Joann Inc., which has been a destination for generations of quilters, knitters and other lovers of crafts for more than 80 years, is going out of business and shuttering all its stores.

Headlines: Federal layoffs hit Flathead National Forest, Columbia Falls mill explosion, and Glacier National Park's wildfire plan updated

Flathead Forest DOGE cut details, an explosion at a Weyerhaeuser plant rocks Columbia Falls, and Glacier National Park updates wildfire plan.

Births

Births

John Wayne Highfill II, 51

In loving memory of John Wayne Highfill II, Sept. 21, 1973—Jan. 20, 2025.

Kaye Ellis, 78

Kaye Hinnenkamp Ellis, 78, born on June 6, 1946, in Melrose, Minnesota, passed away on Jan. 27, 2025, leaving a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion.

Pianist returns to Flathead Valley sharing music with students

Jordan Neiman has been waiting roughly two decades to play the Yamaha grand piano that now sits to the back of his music studio.

Legals for February, 24 2025

Letters to the editor Feb. 24

Letters to the editor Feb. 24

Kalispell City Council to consider fast-tracking wastewater plant upgrades

Kalispell City Council will consider adopting a project plan that would hasten upgrades to the municipality’s wastewater treatment plant.

Law roundup: Psychedelic ’shrooms found for sale online

Someone was allegedly selling psychedelic mushrooms on a social media site's marketplace.

Trump administration is putting USAID staffers on leave worldwide and firing at least 1,600

The Trump administration says it's placing all but a fraction of staffers at the U.S. Agency for International Development on leave worldwide and eliminating at least 1,600 U.S.-based jobs.

Chaos erupts at legislative town hall in Coeur d'Alene

Saturday’s Legislative Town Hall hosted by the Kootenai County Republican Central Committee turned volatile as some attendees voiced their concerns over House Bill 138 and other recent legislative initiatives.

Capital Bruins squeeze past Bravettes

HELENA — The Helena Capital Bruins didn’t shoot well from the line Saturday, but they hit enough free throws to pick up a 50-49 Western AA girls basketball win over Flathead.

Robert R. Sanders, 88

Robert "Bob" R. Sanders, 88, a loving husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully on Dec. 31, 2024, at Mesa View Estates in Mesquite, Nevada. His family was by his side.

Helena High boys trip Glacier, 57-41

Jaxan Lieberg scored 19 points, Tevin Wetzel added 14 and Helena High beat Glacier 57-41 to complete a weekend sweep of its Kalispell foes.

Legislation shields corporations from accountability

A trio of bills that would help shield BNSF Railway from lawsuits related to Libby’s Asbestos Superfund site was in front of the Legislature last week.

Bobcats too much for Lady Griz

BOZEMAN — Montana State scored the game’s first six points, jumped out to a 26-12 lead and never looked back in thumping Montana 98-66 in a gold-splashed Brick Breeden Fieldhouse on Saturday afternoon.

Letters to the editor Feb. 23

Letters to the editor Feb. 23

Exempt well loophole is a handout to developers

It would be an understatement to say our family was concerned when we received news of a major subdivision proposal on the eastern shore of Canyon Ferry.

The one-way property tax ratchet

Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson recently had some choice words to share about the Montana Legislature’s proposals to rein in the growth of property taxes.

Who will pay for Hertz’s TIF reform? You will.

Tax increment financing is a policy driver that incentivizes private developers to develop in areas they would not otherwise develop, e.g., 100-year-old vacant blighted structures full of contaminants on rural Main Streets.

Legals for February, 23 2025

Barbara Armstrong, 90

Barbara Pope Armstrong was born on Dec. 24, 1934, in Miles City and passed away on Feb. 17, 2025, in Kalispell.

Heartbreaker: Bruins tip Braves at buzzer

Dylan Almquist broke the Flathead Braves’ hearts Saturday.

Everyone’s favorite ogre (and ogress) feature of musical story about acceptance

"Shrek the Musical,” an irreverent storybook tale in two sidesplitting acts will be performed for the first time by Whitefish Theatre Company by a cast of people you might know from around town transformed into the unconventional green hero, spunky redheaded princess, wisecracking donkey and ill-tempered lord.

Bad data on effort to restrict health care access

A 62-year-old New York woman died following a car crash off an icy road, two weeks after she got the Covid vaccine. An 88-year-old Florida man died from a fall, three months after he got the vaccine. A 31-year-old in North Carolina died after a severe stomach bug, two years after his shot.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Happenings related to business

Eureka boys, girls take 3rd at Districts

MISSION — Kyler Kossman scored 24 points, Cole Sartori added 14 and Eureka held off Mission 57-53 for third place at the District 7-B tournament Saturday.

Giving Together: Kiita Foundation scholarships

Spring is just around the corner, and soon more than 1,000 students will be graduating from high schools across the Flathead Valley and embarking on the next chapter of their lives. For many local students who plan to attend college in the fall, scholarships will help close the gap in their family’s budget.

German business leaders say new government must act quickly to rescue stagnant economy

Germany's businesses have been frustrated by government inaction on the stagnating economy. Sunday's national election raises hopes of a stable two-party coalition of conservatives and center-left Social Democrats, with center-right leader Friedrich Merz as likely chancellor. But will it take the swift action business leaders are calling for? Leading economists and business figures are offering their views on the way forward.

Grizzlies hold off Bobcats, 89-85

BOZEMAN — Montana led Montana State wire to wire Saturday; it just didn’t feel that way.

Steve Larson, 71

Steve Larson, 71, passed away Feb. 17, 2025, at Logan Health in Whitefish with his wife, Karen by his side.

Influenza numbers remain high across Flathead Valley

Seasonal influenza activity remains high across the country and within Flathead County.

Girls roundup: Perez leads Maidens to win

POLSON — Nevaeh Perez scored 19 points and the Ronan Maidens locked down Polson in the second half of a 42-35 Northwest A girls basketball win Saturday.

Helena girls top Wolfpack, 70-53

HELENA — The middle quarters weren’t kind to the Glacier girls basketball team, and neither was the free throw line.

Harry Brown, 91

Cheers to Harry Brown!

Kalispell infrastructure projects moving ahead despite Trump's funding freeze

After a period of uncertainty, state and city officials say regional infrastructure projects are moving forward as scheduled despite President Donald Trump’s effort to freeze the federal spending undergirding them.

PEAK Fit with focus on functional fitness expands to Kalispell

The gym seeks to provide a holistic approach to fitness and recovery through the utilization of high intensity interval training, also called HIIT, mixed with caring for the body and prioritizing recovery

Forest Service terminations cut deep on Flathead National Forest

Fischer Gangemi never really considered a career outside of the Forest Service.

Mary Catherine Sloan, 90

Mary Catherine Sloan, 90, passed away on Feb. 10, 2025, at the home she built with her husband Gary on a rocky ledge overlooking Whitefish Lake on Lion Mountain.

PHOTOS: Skijoring returns to the Flathead Valley with Whitefish Skijoring 2025

Skijoring made its return to the Flathead Valley, held by the non-profit organization Whitefish Skijoring, at 1530 W. Springcreek Road on Saturday, Feb. 22. Action continues Sunday.

Kemppainen heats up in Wildkats' Friday win

COLUMBIA FALLS — Kierra Kemppainen hit five 3-pointers and scored 15 points, and the Columbia Falls Wildkats steadily pulled away to beat Browning Friday in Northwest A girls basketball.

Todorovich, Bengals too much for Bravettes

HELENA — Helena High’s Madi Todorovich scored 16 points, all of them in the first half Friday as the Lady Bengals beat Flathead 51-38 in Western AA girls basketball.

Escape Kalispell’s Winter Chill: A Tropical Getaway to O‘ahu

Aloha, Kalispell! As winter settles in and temperatures drop, there’s no better time to trade snow boots for flip-flops and escape to the sun-soaked paradise of O‘ahu.

Lieberg, Wetzel lift Helena boys over Flathead

The Helena High Bengals put on a show Friday night at the Flathead gym, particularly in the third quarter of an 81-51 win over the host Braves in Western AA boys basketball.

Browning boys win Northwest A showdown with C-Falls

BROWNING — Jude Reevis scored 21 points and Browning ruled the glass and free throw line to beat Columbia Falls 69-58, in a showdown of top Nortthwest A boys basketball teams.

Capital boys push past Glacier Friday

Merek Mihelish scored 12 points and Dylan Almquist fueled a late 6-0 run that pushed Helena Capital past Glacier 56-52 in Western AA boys basketball Friday.

Ramey, Wolfpack girls solve Bruins

HELENA — Reese Ramey scored 16 points, eight of them coming down the stretch as Glacier defeated Helena Capital 46-43 in Western AA girls basketball action Friday.

St. Mary project moving ahead; Daines says Interior has approved the project

Funding for the St. Mary project was held up and in limbo until early Thursday evening when U.S. Sen. Steve Daines of Montana said that he had worked with the Department of the Interior to re-approve the project.

Gianforte property tax relief proposal clears key vote in House

A relief measure touted by Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte as a tonic for widespread frustration over Montana’s rising residential property taxes passed a key vote in the Legislature’s House Appropriations Committee on Thursday — but only after taking on amendments that appeared aimed at winning support from a critical mass of the committee’s Democrats.

National Park Service restores some jobs of fired employees, pledges to hire 7,700 seasonal workers

The Trump administration is restoring jobs for dozens of National Park Service employees fired amid government-wide reductions and hiring nearly 3,000 additional seasonal workers, following an uproar over an aggressive plan to downsize the agency.

Poster Player of the Week: Kaura Coles of Glacier High

This week's poster player of the week presented goes to Kaura Coles, a 115-pound wrestler for the Glacier Wolfpack.

Law roundup: No parking sign confounds limo driver

City workers planning to perform work on underground utilities put up a "no parking" sign to keep the area clear. But they told the Kalispell Police Department that when they returned, they found a limousine parked in the way. Officers reached out to the driver, who told them that she was at a doctor's appointment. She agreed to move the limo when she got home.

Vandalism suspect allegedly threatened victim with a knife

A Kalispell man caught on camera vandalizing a car tire later threatened the victim with a knife for turning the evidence over to the authorities, prosecutors say.

Montana House votes down bill to ban mRNA vaccines

The Montana House on Wednesday voted down a bill that would have banned mRNA vaccines statewide, including the Covid-19 vaccine.

Legals for February, 21 2025

Basket Brawl II set for Saturday at MSU

A resurgent Montana State men’s team and still-unbeaten women’s squad will host the second Cat-Griz basketball doubleheader of the season, when the intrastate Big Sky Conference rivals play Saturday at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse on the MSU campus.

Kalispell Public Schools officials outline career exploration pathway

Kalispell Public Schools engaged local employers and employees in a discussion about its career development initiatives Tuesday at Flathead Valley Community College, emphasizing programs from elementary through high school and encouraging business partnerships to expand student opportunities.

Edmo, Chiefs outlast Bigfork in 2OT

BIGFORK — Ronan’s Tayen Edmo hit five 3-pointers, three coming after regulation, and scored 15 points in the Chiefs’ 51-45 win over Northwest A neighbor Bigfork in boys basketball Thursday.

Ramey aims for success

Three years ago Reese Ramey was part of a youth movement in the Glacier girls basketball program, one of six freshmen on the Wolfpack’s junior varsity/varsity roster, with a few — Ramey, Charlotte Osler, and Kenedee Moore — getting quite a few varsity minutes.

Cayuse Prairie School business manager earns prestigious designation

Cayuse Prairie School Business Manager and clerk Heather Mumby has earned the Association of School Business Officials International’s Certified Administrator of School Finance and Operations (SFO) designation.

Writing coaches needs volunteers for writing assessment workshop

Writing Coaches is conducting a research project that will assess the effectiveness of coaching on students’ writing outcomes.

Whitefish girls pull away from Libby

WHITEFISH — Allie Shors scored 14 of her 17 points in the second half as Whitefish pulled away from Libby for a 46-36 Northwest A victory Thursday.

Flood watch issued for Northwest Montana counties

A stretch of unseasonably warm days coupled with copious rainfall on top of a deep valley snowpack has meteorologists concerned about flooding potential this weekend.

Column: Painting a pretty volleyball picture

Jaimie Nelson might seem like an unlikely pick to be Glacier High’s next volleyball coach, in that it’s her first varsity coaching job at the age of 48.

Skier taps into survival skills after getting lost on Blacktail Mountain

A lost skier was rescued from an out-of-bounds area near Blacktail Mountain Ski Area on Tuesday afternoon after taking shelter overnight in a tree well.

Bulldog turned Oredigger wins Freshman of the Year award

Whitefish watched Ryder Barinowski play Bulldog football at Memorial Field for years.

Whitefish Theatre Company holds auditions for ‘Lend Me a Tenor’

The Whitefish Theatre Company is holding auditions for the classic farce comedy “Lend Me a Tenor” by Ken Ludwig.

Honors given at Polson film festival

This year’s film entries — including narrative shorts and features, documentaries and animated films — hailed from 17 countries, and included 21 Montana-made entries.

Law roundup: Parent wants cops to wipe out toilet paper drama

A woman’s 19-year-old daughter allegedly threw a tantrum over toilet paper and was screaming and yelling.

Glacier National Park updates wildfire response plan

A new fire management plan for Glacier National Park will incorporate prescribed burning and other forest treatments into the park’s ongoing efforts to prevent wildfires.

Anson E. Barnes, 88

Anson E. Barnes, 88, passed away peacefully, at home the evening of Feb. 1, 2025.

State Supreme Court Chief Justice warns lawmakers against making judiciary partisan

For years, Republicans in the Montana Legislature have felt stymied by the state’s district and Supreme courts, as numerous laws passed during the last two sessions have been deemed unconstitutional after often lengthy legal battles.

Glacier and Flathead present musical performance

Glacier and Flathead present musical performances

Kalispell City Council OKs emergency well repair

Kalispell City Council on Tuesday decided to move ahead with emergency repairs to the municipality’s largest water well.

Man arrested after Evergreen shootout brought up on felony charges

The man arrested after a shootout with police officers in Evergreen on Feb. 14 is now facing multiple felonies in Flathead County District Court.

Ogre-sized fun awaits in production of ‘Shrek The Musical’

Get ready to leave your troubles Far Far Away and embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, love, and ogre-sized fun!

Movie Night at the Museum screens classic film noir ‘Double Indemnity'

Movie Night at the Museum will feature the 1944 film “Double Indemnity” starring Fred MacMurray and Barbara Stanwyck Feb. 25.

FVCC Festival of Flavor’s event takes on Kentucky Derby theme

FVCC’s Culinary Institute of Montana will serve an elegant array of courses, each paired with exceptional wines presented by Mark Gronenthal of Browne Family Vineyards.

Letters to the editor Feb. 20

Letters to the editor Feb. 20

The destruction of public education

The Trump administration has drafted an executive order to destroy the Department of Education.

Return the surplus to the people

When will we start respecting Montana’s taxpayers?

Putting families first with paid family leave

Montana families are the backbone of our great state. They raise our children, drive our economy, and embody the values that make Montana strong: hard work, community and resilience.

Flathead alums Thompson, Perrin are Little Sullivan finalists

The Little Sullivan Award finalists for Montana were announced Sunday, and a pair of Flathead High graduates, Skyleigh Thompson and Ben Perrin, are in the mix.

Trump's firing of 1,000 national park workers raises concerns about maintenance and operating hours

The Trump administration has fired about 1,000 newly hired National Park Service employees who maintain and clean parks, educate visitors and perform other functions as part of its broad-based effort to downsize government.

New Social Security chief contradicts claims that millions of dead people are getting payouts

The new head of the Social Security Administration said Wednesday that deceased centenarians are "not necessarily receiving benefits," contradicting claims that tens of millions of dead people over the age of 100 are getting payments from the agency.

Whitefish schools locked down as man arrested nearby

Whitefish schools were briefly locked down Wednesday afternoon while law enforcement officers took a man into custody at a residence near the high school.

Explosion at Weyerhaeuser plant rocks Columbia Falls

Columbia Falls firefighters and several other Flathead Valley fire departments responded Wednesday morning to a report of an explosion and fire at the Weyerhaeuser MDF plant in Columbia Falls.

Senate to debate bill restricting transgender access to women’s sports

State lawmakers have reengaged over the past few weeks in an intense, multi-session debate involving the rights of transgender female athletes, advancing a proposal that would restrict access to women’s locker rooms, bathrooms and sports teams in Montana’s K-12 public schools to cisgender women.

Trump warns Zelenskyy to quickly negotiate war's end with Russia or risk not having a nation to lead

MIAMI (AP) — President Donald Trump on Wednesday warned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that he "better move fast" to negotiate an end to Russia's invasion of Ukraine or risks not having a nation to lead.

Aloha, Kalispell! Escape the Winter Chill with a Journey to Hawai‘i's Big Island

As winter tightens its grip on Kalispell, Montana, with temperatures often dipping below freezing and snow blanketing the landscape, it's natural to dream of warmer destinations. better way to rejuvenate your spirit than by basking in the tropical warmth of Hawai‘i's Big Island?

Public hearing set for Lakeside wastewater treatment plan

The Lakeside County Water and Sewer District is seeking a Montana Ground Water Pollution Control System permit because its existing wastewater system is nearing capacity and in need of expansion and improved treatment. DEQ has issued a draft environmental assessment for the improvements.

7-B tourney: Kossmans lead Eureka to pair of wins

EUREKA — The Kossman siblings roared on Tuesday.

Legals for February, 19 2025

Law roundup: Driver is blinded by emergency lights

Officers followed up with an upset caller who complained that Kalispell Police Department’s emergency lights were “far too bright” and that he almost lost control of his vehicle because he was “temporarily blinded.”

Mary Elizabeth Frampton, 66

Mary Elizabeth Frampton, 66, of Whitefish, passed away at home on Feb. 13, 2025.

Prep hoops: Glacier falls short, twice

In the game of basketball nothing is given for free, but how a team performs at the charity stripe can be the biggest difference between wins and losses.

Joel P. Kelly, 63

Joel P. Kelly, 63, born in Kalispell in 1961, died at his home from heart failure on Feb. 14, 2025.

Whitefish shop shakes up delicious joy with over-the-top drinks

On top of the shake is a mountain of sweet, whipped cream covered in caramel drizzle, topped with the star of the show: the Liege waffle.

All 80 aboard a Delta jet survive after it burst into flames on a Toronto runway

A Delta Airlines plane flipped upon arrival at Toronto's Pearson Airport and ended up on its roof Monday, injuring 17 people.

Man arrested after allegedly shooting at Polson Police officer

A California man is facing a pending attempted murder charge after allegedly shooting at a Polson Police officer with a rifle on Valentine's Day.

Moderates buck Regier, wrest control of Senate

Moderates seized control of the Montana state Senate during an after-dark floor session Monday in a power flex by 18 minority Democrats and nine maverick Republicans signaling their dissatisfaction with the Senate’s pace of business under Republican President Matt Regier.

Critics warn bills would let BNSF Railway off the hook in asbestos-related suits

The House passed legislation this week that could jeopardize hundreds of wrongful death and contamination lawsuits related to the Libby Asbestos Superfund Site.

Legals for February, 18 2025

Law roundup: Stressed mail carrier allegedly involved in hit-and-run

A mail carrier allegedly backed into a Jeep and almost hit a resident before driving away.

Kalispell City Council to vote on emergency well repairs

Kalispell City Council is expected to authorize emergency repairs to a public water well on Tuesday and likely begin its transition away from composting biosolids.

Stillwater Christian School gets $1M grant from Gianforte Family Foundation for Early Learning Center project

Stillwater Christian School received a $1 million grant from the Gianforte Family Foundation for its Early Learning Center construction project slated to start in the spring.

Montana Senate votes down bill to require Ten Commandments in public school classrooms

The Montana Senate voted down a bill Saturday to require public schools to post the Ten Commandments in every classroom, albeit with an emotional debate about the need for moral standards in the country and the atrocities inflicted in the name of religion.

0218 Notices

0218 Notices

Effort to let nontribal property owners hunt on Flathead Indian Reservation fails

The House Committe on Fish, Wildlife and Parks last week tabled a bill allowing some nontribal members to hunt deer and elk on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

TIF reform would deliver property tax relief

Property tax relief is a top priority for Senate Republicans this legislative session. I’m sponsoring one such bill, SB 2, which reforms how tax increment financing (TIF) districts sunset — if they ever do — in order to lower property taxes for all local taxpayers. Essentially, the bill rewards taxpayers who contribute to economic development over the span of a TIF project.

Letters to the editor Feb. 18

Letters to the editor Feb. 18

Keeping Score: State champions crowned, basketball thrillers and season highlights

We celebrate Glacier’s Kaura and Niko Coles as they claim state wrestling titles, while Flathead racks up 13 state placers.

Headlines: Montana's bathroom bill, Glacier Park property ruling, and housing affordability

Bathroom bill poised to become law, judge rules a private home constructed in Glacier Park can stay, and what local experts say about housing affordability in NW Montana.

Coles siblings rustle up two titles, one runner-up

BILLINGS — Winning titles is a Coles family affair.

Letters to the editor Feb. 17

Letters to the editor Feb. 17

Whitefish Council examines rescinding airport hangar permit

Whitefish on Tuesday will determine whether to revoke a permit allowing for a private hanger to be constructed as part of an expansion to the Whitefish Airport.

The Dude abides (in the Flathead Valley)

Sitting against the back wall, dark sunglasses on despite the dim lighting, Joel Welle is eyeing a plate of nachos on the table in front of him.

Law roundup: Neighbor knows what man’s done since last summer

Since last summer, a young man’s “excessively loud” vehicle had allegedly served as a neighborhood alarm clock, waking everyone up around 5:45 a.m.

Barbara 'Bobbi' Ellen Swan, 85

Barbara "Bobbi" Ellen Swan, 85, passed away peacefully Feb. 9, 2025, in Evergreen, in the care of Enhabit Hospice and Edgewood Care Facility.

Legals for February, 17 2025

Investigators find 3rd victim from fiery Wyoming tunnel crash

A third victim was found Sunday in the wreckage from a fiery crash inside a Wyoming highway tunnel that involved 26 cars and trucks, officials said.

Forest Service lays off 360 Montana-based workers

In response to news this week that Montana’s largest land manager is laying off 360 Montana-based federal employees, a spokesperson for the U.S. Forest Service said Friday the agency is “confident that talented individuals” impacted by the staffing reduction will have “many opportunities to contribute to our economy and society in countless ways outside of government.”

Senior service providers across state facing cutbacks

Beatrice O’Donnell lit up at the knock on the door.

Heeding the call of the wild

As Flathead Wildlife’s Jim Vashro introduced the presenter for the group’s gathering last month in a meeting room on North Meridian Road, a low rumble rose from the back of the room.

Friday: Eureka and Ronan boys win

EUREKA — Eureka’s Rowan Burow hit three 3-pointers in the first quarter and the Lions never looked back while taking down District 7-B foe Troy 52-32 Friday.

Vera Louise (Adams) Roth, 93

Vera Louise (Adams) Roth departed her earthly existence Thursday evening, Jan. 30, 2025, in search of the answer to the great mystery of what happens after death.

Elk slaughter bill step to end public hunting

Montana is at a crossroads in our management of wildlife. We will either maintain our decades-long tradition in which everyone has equal opportunity to enjoy our public wildlife, or we hand control to a handful of wealthy landowners and outfitters to pick who gets to hunt.

Cut the budget, not the Constitution

I had the opportunity during the second George W. Bush administration, to engage in advising struggling democracies in a project then known as “democracy building.”

Reauthorizing HELP Act is the right choice for Montanans

In 2015, the Montana Legislature passed the HELP Act, which aims to provide access to high-quality, affordable health care for all Montana citizens and to provide low-income Montanans with opportunities to improve their readiness for work or to obtain higher-paying jobs. Nearly a decade after its implementation, the act is ably accomplishing its goals with far-reaching impacts on the state. Now is not the time to undo our progress.

Legals for February, 16 2025

Proposed timber sale on Spencer Mountain, Beaver Lakes draws ire of local recreationists

The conservation group that helped create the Whitefish Trail says a proposed timber sale could damage or close some of the trail network's most beloved areas.

Elsie Marie Mickelson, 102

Elsie Marie Mickelson, 102, passed away peacefully at her home in Columbia Falls on Feb. 4, 2025, with her children by her side.

Two Teeth: 3 state titles

Eureka boys boast 2 champions

BILLINGS — She’s the best in the state and proved it again.

At-home therapy aimed at improving day-to-day life

It’s a type of therapy that focuses on how to address functional deficits across all aspects of the body.

Donald Roy Abram, 84

The family of Donald Roy Abram invites you to a celebration of life service on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025 — which is also his 85th birthday.

Anson E. Barnes, 88

Anson E. Barnes, 88, passed away peacefully at home on the evening of Feb. 1, 2025.

Law roundup: No one injured by woman’s purse

A very drunk woman in her 30s allegedly swung her purse at someone in a Kalispell business, creating a scene, before going outside. No one was injured.

Boys hoops: Polson, Eureka win

LIBBY — Cason Graham scored 21 points, 10 in Polson’s 17-x opening-quarter salvo that carried the Pirates to 71-32 Northwest A boys basketball win Saturday.

Gary Lyle Eckert, 85

On Feb. 7, 2025, Gary Lyle Eckert, 85, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus at his home in Kalispell after a yearlong battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, being comforted by his wife and family.

Letters to the editor Feb. 16

Letters to the editor Feb. 16

Flathead Business Watercooler

Happenings related to business

Affordability challenges remain as boom era subsides

Five years after the Covid-19 pandemic threw Montana into an unprecedented growth spurt, the state has begun to recalibrate.

Snow bikes make for a unique way to shred the mountain

“A SNO-GO,” I promptly smiled back to him. “Basically, a bike on skis.”

Montana State women extend winning streak to 17

POCATELLO, Id. — Montana State’s Marah Dykstra recorded a career-high 29 points, including 18 in the second half as the Bobcats flexed its muscle in the fourth quarter en route to a 74-60 win over Idaho State on Saturday afternoon in Reed Gym.

Moore’s 22 points leads Montana to eighth straight win

MISSOULA — Malik Moore scored 22 points, making six 3-pointers and the Montana Grizzlies controlled the second half for a 65-58 win over the Weber State Wildcats at Dahlberg Arena Saturday.

Wolfpack's Gibbons wins championship at State Swim Meet

GREAT FALLS — Glacier senior Olivia Gibbons ended her prep career with a championship at the State Swim Meet that concluded Saturday.

Ronan Maidens take down Browning

RONAN — Kailyn Marengo scored 19 points and the Ronan Maidens won a tight Northwest A girls basketball game from Browning Saturday, 55-50.

PHOTOS: Barstool Ski Races at Cabin Fever Days 2025

Scenes from the Barstool Ski Races at Cabin Fever Days in Martin City on Saturday, Feb. 15.

Whitefish-Browning games postponed

Friday’s Northwest A basketball games between Whitefish and Browning — the boys game was to be in Whitefish while the girls played in Browning — were postponed by bad roads.

Glacier boys, girls drop games in Butte

BUTTE — The Mining City wasn’t kind to either Glacier basketball team Friday night, as the Butte Bulldogs swept a Western AA doubleheader at the Civic Center.

Man arrested after shootout, SWAT response in Evergreen, officials say

A man is in custody after allegedly exchanging gunfire with law enforcement during a standoff that drew a SWAT and K-9 response in Evergreen on Friday night.

St. Regis family loses home in structure fire

The St. Regis and West End volunteer fire departments teamed up on the second structural fire within a week on Feb. 9, this time at 1130 Montana 135.

Flathead, Glacier combine for 7 in State Wrestling finals

BILLINGS — On Valentine’s Day, Seven Glacier and Flathead wrestlers scheduled a date in Saturday’s State All-Class Wrestling Tournament.

Ronan 4th in girls race despite Cote upset

BILLINGS — Undefeated no more.

Habitat for Humanity trims proposed subdivision in Columbia Falls

Habitat for Humanity will look to build six homes on what is now a baseball field on Railroad Street in Columbia Falls.

White supremacist flyers turning up in Whitefish shops

At the Whitefish City Council meeting last week, Bookworks manager Marti Brandt said flyers touting white supremacy had been dropped off at the popular store, put into books and placed in the window.

Bigfork Fire Department bond pushed to a later vote

The Bigfork Fire District facilities committee precluded a board decision to put a bond for a new fire hall on the May ballot last week while maintaining the set timeline to break ground in spring of 2026.

Trump wants states to clean up forests to stop wildfires. But his administration cut off funds

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — President Donald Trump's administration is holding up money for wildfire mitigation projects funded through legislation championed by his Democratic predecessor, threatening efforts to prevent catastrophic blazes like the ones that recently ripped through Southern California.

Poster Player of the Week: Braeden Gunlock of Bigfork High

This week’s poster player of the week goes to Braeden Gunlock of the Bigfork Valkyries.

Seven Signs It May Be Time to Consider Senior Living for Your Loved One

Deciding when to transition a loved one into senior living can be a difficult and emotional decision. It’s a step that involves evaluating their physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. While every situation is unique, there are certain signs that can help you determine when it may be time to explore senior living options. Here are seven key signs to watch for:

Legals for February, 14 2025

Ronan wrestlers chasing favorites at State

While the Class B portion of the All-Class State Wrestling Meet seems preordained — three-time defending champion Huntley Project isn’t going anywhere — the A portion is tough to call.

Valentines: The key to love from those who know it

Loreley and Fred McLaughlin met over 60 years ago while at a mutual friend’s house. The apartment was unfurnished, so they sat on pillows, drinking margaritas and having a good time.

Glacier sweeps Belgrade hoops on road

BELGRADE — Cooper Pelc scored 18 points, 10 coming in the fourth quarter as Glacier put away Belgrade 58-38 for a non-conference boys basketball win Thursday.

Carmen Fenster, 82

Carmen Ardeth Fenster, 82, a beloved matriarch and cherished friend, passed away peacefully in her home on Jan. 27, 2025.

Eagles soar past Bravettes

Big Sky boys complete sweep of Flathead

Kadynce Couture and Ava Malmin both scored almost half of their team’s points. The difference was Couture scored 24 and Malmin scored 15.

Lawmakers debate Republican income tax relief proposals

The middle class is often a forgotten segment of the population, says Sen. Mike Yakawich, a Billings Republican.

Francis 'Frank' Lyons, 86

Francis "Frank" J. Lyons, 86, passed away on Jan. 29, 2025, after a brief illness.

Officials will consider banning motorized boats on Bull River amidst citizen complaints

Wildlife officials will consider new rules regulating the use of motorized boats on the Bull River south of Libby, following a petition from a local landowner.

Bobcat women thump Weber St.

OGDEN, Utah — Marah Dykstra scored 14 points to lead a balanced Montana State offense, and the league-leading Bobcats used a huge third quarter to brush aside Weber State 63-45 in Big Sky Conference women’s basketball Thursday.

Dorothy Eleanor Byrd, 89

Dorothy Eleanor Byrd, 89, of Columbia Falls, passed away Feb. 10, 2025.

Law roundup: Neighbor tries to put pet owner in the doghouse

storyt

Mac Roche approved as Flathead grid coach

The Flathead Braves have their new football coach, and he started building his pedigree not far from Legends Stadium.

Dianna Lynn Giddeon, 77

Dianna Lynn Giddeon, 77, of Whitefish, passed away peacefully on the evening of Feb. 5, 2025.

Bill to ban mRNA vaccines passes out of House committee

A bill that would ban the use of mRNA vaccines, including for Covid-19, is on its way to the House floor after passing out of committee in a party-line vote Wednesday.

Nelson to coach Glacier volleyball

Jaimie Nelson, who has guided Glacier’s freshman volleyball teams the past two seasons, has been elevated to head coach for the Wolfpack program.

Lawmakers in GOP-held Senate signal openness to continuing Medicaid expansion

Two Republican-sponsored proposals that would have phased out Medicaid expansion for tens of thousands of low-income adults in Montana or attached conditions to its continuation failed to pass the state Senate in back-to-back votes this week.

Presentation looks at wealthy, but enigmatic family

Charley Bair made his first fortune in the gold fields of the Klondike, his second in the sheep business in Montana, and his third in real estate in Los Angeles.

Columbia Falls boys dominates Libby

COLUMBIA FALLS — Three Wildcats scored in double figures, led by Bjorn Petersen’s 13 points as Columbia Falls won easily 75-39 over the Libby Loggers in Northwest A boys basketball Thursday night.

Valkyries keeping rolling with win over Polson

POLSON — Braeden Gunlock outscored the entire Pirates team with a 35-point night, leading the Valkyries to a comfortable win over Polson 71-27 in Northwest A girls basketball Thursday night.

Trump administration freezes funds for wildfire mitigation projects

President Donald Trump's administration is holding up money for wildfire mitigation projects funded through legislation championed by his Democratic predecessor, threatening efforts to prevent catastrophic blazes like the ones that recently ripped through Southern California.

Big Sky Now: Montana State's streak, playoff races and conference chaos

The Big Sky Conference is heating up as the race for the Big Sky Tournament and March Madness tightens.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is confirmed as Trump's health secretary after a close Senate vote

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate on Thursday confirmed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as President Donald Trump's health secretary, putting the prominent vaccine skeptic in control of $1.7 trillion in federal spending, vaccine recommendations and food safety as well as health insurance programs for roughly half the country.

In Smith, Bravettes have 155-pound trail blazer

The sport of wrestling may have started as a nice diversion for Bridget Smith but now — three years in — the Flathead athlete has become a family trailblazer.

Hurting and Fighting

Pack's Yeadon wrestles her way back to state

It’s not about the size of the dog in the fight, but the size of the fight in the dog and — Brooke Yeadon is all fight.

Glacier Symphony presents ‘Scheherazade’ featuring Les Arrivants – A mesmerizing fusion of cultures and sound

Experience a night of dazzling storytelling through music as Glacier Symphony presents “Scheherazade” featuring Les Arrivants Feb. 22 and 23 at McClaren Hall in the Wachholz College Center.

Law roundup: Construction crew finds old hidden room

A construction crew allegedly found a hidden room in a building where it appeared someone had been living in it for quite some time.

Invasion of the judicial branch

Before entering upon the duties of his or her office, a legislator “shall,” according to Article III of the Montana Constitution, solemnly swear to faithfully support, protect and defend the constitutions of Montana and the United States of America.

Letters to the editor Feb. 13

Letters to the editor Feb. 13

Legislation for tax relief, housing, education

Thirty days into the 69th session of the Montana Legislature, the House is operating as a well-oiled machine thanks to the leadership of Speaker Rep. Brandon Ler, Speaker Pro Tempore Rep. Katie Zolnikov, Majority Leader Rep. Steve Fitzpatrick and Minority Leader Rep. Katie Sullivan — we are all the beneficiaries of their effort and talent.

Wilderness Speaker Series lineup announced

The annual Wilderness Speaker Series returns to Flathead Valley Community College with a lineup that includes local author Antonia Malchik, geologist Teagan Tomlin and wildlife biologist Lisa Bate.

FVSEF Skiers shred slopes at Red Lodge, Sun Valley

Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation (FVSEF) racers travelled in a couple different directions last weekend, and Claire Graham of Whitefish stood out on the slopes in Red Lodge.

Man accused of shooting at ex brought up on felony charge

A man accused of shooting at his ex-girlfriend while she retrieved her belongings from his truck in Kalispell last month is facing a felony charge in Flathead County District Court.

Roy Harrison, 77

Roy Ronald Harrison, 77, of Hood River, Oregon, passed away on Feb. 8, 2025, after a painful struggle with dementia.

Postmodern Jukebox returns to Kalispell on Magic & Moonlight world tour

Fresh from playing their 1,000th show, the retro musical collective Postmodern Jukebox returns to the Wachholz College on their Magic & Moonlight world tour July 8.

Aretha Franklin tribute and Step Afrika! coming to Kalispell in March

R.E.S.P.E.C.T., an electrifying homage to the legendary Aretha Franklin and Step Afrika!, the leading authority on the art form of stepping, take the stage in March at the Wachholz College Center in Kalispell.

Briefs: Wilde ties UM's indoor HJ record

Whitefish product Erin Wilde cleared 5 feet, 10 inches last Friday to win the high jump at the Riverfront Invitational track and field meet in Spokane and tied the University of Montana’s indoor record in the event.

0213 Notices

0213 Notices

William Conrad Winders, 69

William Conrad Winders, 69, informally known as "Topper," passed away in Kalispell on Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, at Logan Healthcare.

Private house in Glacier Park can remain, federal judge rules

A private home on the banks of McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park can remain, a federal judge ruled earlier this month.

Elk foundation champions hunting, conservation causes

This Saturday, Feb. 15, will be one of the most fun nights of the year for Kalispell area hunters.

Housing affordability remains a top economic concern for Flathead Valley

Montana has become a top five state in job creation over the past year yet is ranked low when it comes to wage growth, according to Jeff Michael, director of the University of Montana’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research.

Barbara 'Bobbi' Ellen Swan, 85

Barbara "Bobbi" Ellen Swan, 85, passed away peacefully Feb. 9, 2025, in Evergreen, in the care of Enhabit Hospice and Edgewood Care Facility.

Biologists look to find out what ails South Fork elk herd

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks hopes to collar 16 elk in the Bob Marshall Wilderness this month as part of a study to better determine why the population has been on the decline in the South Fork of the Flathead.

Barbara Kraintz, 78

Barbara Jean Kraintz, 78, left us for Heaven Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 1:43 p.m.

Filing deadline approaches to appear on ballots as a school board trustee candidate

School elections are coming in May and people interested in serving on a school board have until March 27 to file paperwork to appear on the ballot.

Flathead wrestling chasing big guns

It's not often the Brave Brawlers get to play spoiler, but that's what they look to do at the State All Class Wrestling Tournament.

Missoula artist Leland Buck featured at FVCC gallery

Since 2018, Leland Buck has explored the American West with his large format cameras and worked in his Missoula studio to render his images in unique ways on paper.

Legals for February, 13 2025

Judge clears way for Trump's plan to downsize federal workforce

A federal judge on Wednesday cleared the way for President Donald Trump 's plan to downsize the federal workforce with a deferred resignation program.

Trump says he and Putin have agreed to begin negotiations on ending war in Ukraine

President Donald Trump upended three years of U.S. policy toward Ukraine on Wednesday, saying that he and Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to begin negotiations on ending the war following a dramatic prisoner swap.

Bathroom bill clears GOP-led Legislature, poised to become law

A bill that would require public and some private facilities to enforce sex-segregated spaces for multiuser bathrooms, dormitories and locker rooms cleared its final vote hurdle in the Montana Legislature on Tuesday.

Skijoring races gallop to Kalispell venue

Dally up and get ready to enjoy wild, winter fun when skiers, pulled by horses, race around a course with sharp turns and big jumps.

Canyon’s ‘water man’ recognized for service

As the water system operator for three Canyon communities, Ben Shafer is used to his phone ringing. He’ll often get 20 calls a day, from people inquiring about their bill to whether he’s shut off their water.

Whitefish firefighters return from aiding in Los Angeles wildfires

Four Whitefish firefighters have returned home safely after assisting with widespread wildfires in Los Angeles.

Making gnochi from scratch simple task

I enjoy testing out new recipes for my family during these months, and gnocchi has quickly become a fun favorite.

Missoula Big Sky boys pull away from Glacier late

BIG SKY — Isaiah Reed had a game-high 19 points, including three 3-pointers and the Big Sky Eagles pulled away in the fourth quarter for a Western AA win over the Glacier Wolfpack 50-43 Tuesday night.

C-Falls boys use big first quarter to down Whitefish

WHITEFISH — Bjorn Pedersen scored a team-high 15 points and Columbia Falls raced away from Whitefish early to take a 77-52 win in Northwest A boys basketball Tuesday.

Wildkats race past Lady Bulldogs

WHITEFISH — Onnikka Lawrence scored 14 points and Taryn Borgen added nine as Columbia Falls pulled away from rival Whitefish 55-28 in Northwest A girls basketball Tuesday.

High school students qualify for international business and leadership competition

Budding entrepreneurs and business leaders from Flathead, Glacier and Whitefish high schools qualified to compete at the DECA International Career Development Conference April 25-30 in Orlando, Florida.

Rev. John W. Robertson, 79

Rev. John William Robertson, 79, died on Feb. 4, 2025, in Helena.

Law roundup: Woman attacks health care worker

A woman with red spikey hair allegedly punched a nurse in the head three times.

Edward 'Eddy' Carl Lauman, 63

Edward "Eddy" Carl Lauman, 63, started his journey to Heaven on Feb. 9, 2025, at 12:37 p.m., surrounded by family, from a stroke.

University of Montana researchers delve into the science of love

MISSOULA – As love is celebrated this week on Valentine’s Day, researchers at the University of Montana are exploring the age-old question of what creates romantic connections.

Passion for wellness, Logan fitness director retires

Brad Roy has retired after 30 years serving as the executive director of Logan Health Medical Fitness Center.

Congressional App Challenge winners announced, apps to be on display in US Capitol Building

Code Girls United members Emma Anderson and Makayla Davenport of Kalispell have been named winners of the 2024 Congressional App Challenge for Montana’s western district by U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke.

Judy Schickendantz, 86

Our beloved Judy Schickendantz, 86, passed peacefully at home on Jan. 25, 2025, surrounded by family and friends.

Legals for February, 12 2025

Salmon bowl with coconut rice packed with protein

The star of the dish is a perfectly seared salmon filet, rich in heart-healthy omega-3s, that comes together in minutes.

Big Sky girls hold off Glacier

The Wolfpack may not have strength in numbers, but there certainly isn’t any quit in this team.

Bravettes' rally falls short against Hellgate

A fourth-quarter rally came up short for the Flathead Bravettes Tuesday, with Missoula Hellgate pulling away late to take a 52-45 Western AA girls basketball win at the Flathead gym.

Man linked to Arizona teen Alicia Navarro sentenced to prison for child sexual abuse images

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A Montana man who had been living with a teenager who disappeared from her home in Arizona years earlier was sentenced to decades in a prison for possession of child sex abuse material, authorities said Tuesday.

Russia has released detained American teacher Marc Fogel, the White House says

WASHINGTON (AP) — Marc Fogel, an American teacher who was deemed wrongfully detained in Russia, has been released in what the White House described as a diplomatic thaw that could advance negotiations to end the war in Ukraine.

Suspect allegedly punched, spat gum at officers in Kalispell

Prosecutors have filed felony charges against a woman who allegedly punched and spat at Kalispell Police officers while they handcuffed her inside a discount store in late January.

House committee takes testimony on bill that would ban certain vaccines in Montana

Legislation that would ban mRNA vaccinations statewide — including the Covid-19 vaccine — drew equal parts support and opposition during a House Judiciary Committee hearing on Friday.

Legals for February, 11 2025

Letters to the editor Feb. 11

Letters to the editor Feb. 11

Law roundup: Man seeks assurances about his troubled past

A man with misgivings reportedly went to the Kalispell Police Department wanting assurance he was doing the right thing about an incident that occurred a year ago.

Misinformation about Panama Canal

On a recent on-site report for NBC News from The Republic of Panama, correspondent Andrea Mitchell stated that the Panama Canal Treaty, signed by President Jimmy Carter and Panamanian leader Omar Torrijos in 1978, had been “overwhelmingly supported” in the U.S.

Protesters in Kalispell rally against Trump's government shakeup

About a hundred people gathered in downtown Kalispell on Monday to protest the Trump administration and billionaire Elon Musk’s efforts to reshape the federal government.

Keeping Score: Overtime drama, wrestling champions and basketball battles

This week’s highlights include another crosstown epic matchup, the wrestling divisionals come to an end and much more basketball to cover as swimming teams had the week off as they get ready for state.

Banks, Lions win Western B/C boys wrestling

BUTTE — The boys’ side of the Western B-C Divisional wrestling tournament was all knotted up heading to the final championship match, with Eureka and Cascade holding 204 points each. Wes Banks took care of that.

Headlines: Flathed River rules, mill levy debate and legislative showdowns

Forest Service plan for Flathead River management gets mixed reactions, Kalispell officials blast Legislature for potentially sunsetting mill levies, and Flathead Valley lawmakers see bills go onto the state Senate.

Louis L. Jenkins, 77

Louis "Louie" L. Jenkins, 77, passed away peacefully, comforted by his wife, Lillian and daughter, Catalina, on Jan. 24, 2025, at his home on Upper Thomson Lake, from dementia.

Whitefish student is a positive force among her peers

When Zoey Marzo sees a need she acts. The Whitefish High School senior can make things happen.

Norbert 'Sam' Tombarge, 90

Norbert “Sam” Eugene Tombarge passed away peacefully on Feb. 1, 2025, in Kalispell, surrounded by family.

Kalispell City Council to discuss study conducted on Ashley Creek

Kalispell is looking to change existing water quality standards for a portion of Ashley Creek where the city discharges treated wastewater.

Legals for February, 10 2025

Law roundup: Clowder caught on tape prowling around

A man with time on his hands called the Kalispell Police Department upset because his neighbor’s cats were allegedly using his truck and boat as their personal play towers, and this time, had “climbed up in his vehicle.”

Letters to the editor Feb. 10

Letters to the editor Feb. 10

Ronan pins down both Western A crowns

BROWNING — Ronan was sitting second for much of the Western A Divisional boys wrestling tournament. Then Koda King and Rowdy Crump got on the mat.

Family-owned home goods shop opens in Kalispell

Upon walking into Trio Collective, one is greeted with an array of items across a range of price points.

Bring back freedom, fairness and affordability

The Montana Legislature has been under Republican leadership for decades and people’s lives have only gotten harder. Republicans have been raising property taxes, giving tax cuts to large corporations and taking away your freedoms.

Nancy Lee Sweeney, 77

Nancy Lee (Fletcher) Sweeney, 77, died from complications of Alzheimer's disease on Jan. 30, 2025, at Beehive Homes of Kalispell, with family by her side.

Chad Graham looks back on his more than a decade on Kalispell City Council

To Chad Graham, being a city councilor means leaving his emotions on the sidelines.

No time to waste during biennial sprint

To maximize impact, Montana’s legislative sessions must be treated as a full-bore Usain Bolt sprint. The 90-day dash is over in a blur and there is no time to waste on half-baked bills and partisan nonsense.

Letters to the editor Feb. 9

Letters to the editor Feb. 9

Legals for February, 9 2025

Briann 'Bree' Landon Mobley, 33

Briann "Bree" Rae Landon Mobley, April 26, 1991 — Jan. 27, 2025.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Happenings and trainings related to business

Law roundup: No takers for indecently exposed hitchhiker

The Kalispell Police Department received two calls about a man reportedly standing on the side of the highway with his pants down while holding up a sign asking for a ride.

Barbara Kraintz, 78

Barbara Jean Kraintz, 78, left us for Heaven Tuesday, Feb. 4, at 1:43 p.m.

Custom clothing has Western inspiration

The online shop features a range of unique frayed jean jackets, leather purses, accessories and more, all inspired by the West and hand-created by Adkins, who lives south of Billings but travels across the state for different events to showcase her work.

Zinke reintroduces efforts to regulate summer water levels on Flathead Lake

Republican Congressman Ryan Zinke has again introduced legislation that would require the Interior Department to maintain water levels in Flathead Lake during the warmer months.

A dream fulfilled: Pursuit of the northern pygmy-owl successful

I’ve been searching for a northern pygmy-owl for the past few winters now, and honestly, I was starting to lose hope.

Domestic violence shelters don’t need or want 'bathroom bill'

By now, anyone paying even mild attention to the news has heard about “the bathroom bill” in the Montana Legislature. I hate that name. It’s an awful bill that will have terrible outcomes. So, let’s just call it House Bill 121.

Boys hoops: Hill, Sapa lead C-Falls over Bigfork

COLUMBIA FALLS — Jory Hill and Reggie Sapa scored 12 points apiece and Columbia Falls rallied past upset-minded Bigfork 52-46 in Northwest A boys basketball Saturday.

Girls hoops: Browning handles Polson

POLSON — Amani Yellow Owl scored 14 points and Teslin Trombley added 12 as Browning defeated Polson 60-39 Saturday in Northwest A girls basketball.

DEQ should deny Lakeside water district's discharge permit

As someone living near the planned groundwater discharge site one mile north of Flathead Lake and just downstream from the Kalispell City Wastewater Treatment Facility, I am deeply concerned about the risks posed by Lakeside County Water and Sewer District's proposal to discharge partially treated septic and sewage wastewater into this shallow groundwater.

Flathead rules the roost

Brawlers, Bravettes win Western AA wrestling

The Brave Brawlers and Bravettes came away from Saturday’s Western AA wrestling divisional with a pair of team titles and qualified a combined 43 athletes for state.

PHOTOS: Frigid Whitefish Winter Carnival Penguin Plunge raises money for Special Olympics

Participants jumped into the frigid waters of Whitefish Lake during the 24th annual Penguin Plunge as part of the Whitefish Winter Carnival on Saturday, Feb. 8. Organized by the Law Enforcement Torch Run, the event raises funds for Special Olympics Montana.

Poster Player of the Week: Asher Knopik of Glacier High

This week's poster player of the week goes to Asher Knopik of the Glacier Wolfpack.

Vehicle reservations for Glacier Park open next week

Vehicle reservations for Glacier National Park’s upcoming summer season will be available starting Feb. 13, at 8 a.m. Mountain Standard Time.

Bills altering mill levies will jeopardize public safety, critics say

Two bills designed to lower property taxes by changing the way mill levies work elicited opposition from local government officials, including those in Kalispell, last week.

House Republicans in Montana pass resolution supporting the Trump administration

Republicans in the Montana House of Representatives carried a resolution supporting Donald Trump’s presidency on Feb. 5.

Brawlers, Bravettes leading Western AA wrestling races

Twenty-six Braves Brawlers are still alive at the Western AA wrestling divisional, and Flathead leads both the boys and girls team competitions after the first day of divisionals, Friday at Flathead High School.

Ronan, Browning girls lead at Western A wrestling

BROWNING — Defending girls A wrestling champions Ronan lead after one day of the Western A wrestling divisional Friday with host Browning in second.

Eureka boys 2nd, girls 3rd at Western B/C wrestling

BUTTE — Eureka sits second in the boys team standings and third in the girls rankings after one day at the Western B/C wrestling divisional Friday.

Columbia Falls boys cruise to win over Ronan

COLUMBIA FALLS — Bjorn Pedersen scored 12 of his game-high 19 points in the first half and the Columbia Falls Wildcats controlled the game for a Northwest A win over the Ronan Chiefs 57-37 Friday night.

Big Sky Now: Basketball coverage, who's rising, who's falling behind

Montana and Montana State were favored to dominate, but Northern Colorado and Portland State are making waves in the standings.

Ramey rains from deep, Glacier boys complete crosstown sweep

Wolfpack senior leads girls to OT win over Flathead

Every kid dreams of scoring the buzzer-beater against their rival, and Reese Ramey lived it twice in one night.

For Ahner it's an honor to wrestle, at any weight

To understand how things could be different for Mark Ahner, take a look at his freshman, sophomore and senior wrestling seasons.

Brian Lee Grosswiler, 72

It is with the greatest of sadness that we share the news of Brian, our "warrior," passing on Jan. 27, 2025, in Kalispell.

Law roundup: Phantom toker vanishes in a puff of smoke

Smelling the odor of marijuana and hearing strange noises, a caller asked the Kalispell Police Department to sweep the building and root out the phantom toker.

Balanced Bigfork battles past Libby

BIGFORK — Alex Ochs hit two 3-pointers and scored 15 points to lead three Bigfork players in double figures, and the Vikings swamped Libby 58-30 Thursday in Northwest A boys basketball.

Whitefish rallied past Polson

WHITEFISH — Allie Shors scored 14 points, Yoli Krastev chipped in 11 and the Whitefish Bulldogs rallied past Polson 46-43 in a Northwest A girls basketball game Thursday.

Legals for February, 7 2025

Wildkats pick up big Northwest A win over Ronan

COLUMBIA FALLS — Taryn Borgen scored 14 points, including four 3-pointers and Columbia Falls completed a home sweep of the Ronan Chiefs in a 50-40 Northwest A girls basketball win Friday night.

Brawlers, Wolfpack wrestlers set for divisionals

Flathead High is the host with the most times two this weekend, as the Western AA Divisional takes over the gym Friday and Saturday.

Flathead Valley man given prison time for targeting aircraft with laser pointer

U.S. District Judge Dana Christensen handed down a two-and-a-half-year sentence to Nolan Wayne Hamman, 32, in federal court in Missoula on Feb. 6. His stint behind bars will be followed by three years of supervised release.

Former Flathead County commissioner Bob Watne dies

Former Flathead County Commissioner Bob Watne died Feb. 2 at the age of 75.

Opponents warn bill will lead to racial profiling in Montana

Opponents of a bill that encourages local law enforcement to check people’s immigration status say the legislation amounts to little more than legalized racial profiling.

Column: Sherwood caught the bug early

Basketball fans in Kalispell should remember that George Sherwood was a centerpiece of the Flathead Braves team that made a surprising run at the 2012 State AA championship.

Egypt lobbies against Trump plan to empty Gaza of Palestinians as Israel makes preparations

CAIRO (AP) — Israel says it has begun preparations for the departure of Palestinians from Gaza despite international rejection of President Donald Trump's plan to empty the territory of its population. Egypt has launched a diplomatic blitz behind the scenes against the proposal, warning it would put its peace deal with Israel at risk, officials said.

Trump tells prayer breakfast he wants to root out 'anti-Christian bias' and urges 'bring God back'

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump said Thursday that he wants to root out "anti-Christian bias" in the U.S., announcing that he was forming a task force led by Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate the "targeting" of Christians.

Vehicle wreck in Kalispell sends one to hospital

Kalispell Police officers investigated a motor vehicle wreck near the intersection of Airport Road and U.S. 93 South on Thursday morning that sent one motorist to the hospital.

Senior Dalager helps Bravettes on the boards and in the huddle

Dalager now finds herself in her third varsity season with the Bravettes and, according to Flathead coach Kaylee Fox, she has developed into a great player and leader.

Jason Alan Oliverson, 55

Jason Alan Oliverson, 55, passed away Feb. 4, 2025, at his home in Kalispell.

Musical spoof 'Spamilton: An American Parody’ Comes to Kalispell

“Spamilton: An American Parody,” a side-splitting spoof of the Broadway blockbuster “Hamilton,” to the tune of piano hip-hop, hits the stage at the Wachholz College Center Feb. 12.

Jason Williams, 28

Jason Williams, August 20, 1996 — February 01, 2025.

Karen Young, Montana Realism in Oils exhibit comes to Phillips Gallery

Phillips Gallery opens an exhibit featuring the work of Kalispell artist Karen Young with a reception and talk Feb. 7.

Student research showcased at FVCC for National History Day

Middle and high school history research projects will be showcased at Flathead Valley Community College Feb. 8 as part of the National History Day program.

Letters to the editor Feb. 6

Letters to the editor Feb. 6

Trump freeze brings chaos to Montana

On Tuesday morning I woke with a text from my husband, informing me that he would likely be without a job effective 5 p.m. that day. Thousands — likely millions — were in the same position we were. President Donald Trump had issued a freeze on one third of the federal budget, and with it sewed deep uncertainty, misinformation and chaos.

Montana’s nuclear future

Montana has historically played an important part in U.S. energy transitions throughout its 135-year history. We have a unique opportunity to continue to play an important part in the current quest for energy independence — but only if we look forward.

Legislation provides “a clear path forward” for struggling police departments

As police departments across the nation report staff shortages, many Montana cities and towns are exploring new ways to provide law enforcement services. One common solution is to contract with the county sheriff’s department.

Film festival starts next week in Polson

The Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC) starts next week at Showboat Stadium 6 in Polson.

Legals for February, 6 2025

Law roundup: Ladies don’t do things like that, man says

A woman allegedly heard a man yelling in a creek drainage area west of her house, saying, “A lady doesn’t do things like that.”

Kaleb Fleck pleads guilty to killing homeless man in Kalispell

A Flathead Valley man charged in the murder of a homeless man in the parking lot of a Kalispell gas station in 2023 has pleaded guilty to deliberate homicide in Flathead County District Court.

Glacier, Yellowstone notch second-highest visitation years on record

Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park both welcomed the second highest number of visitors on record last year, according to visitation data released by the National Park Service late last month.

Trump sees 'long-term' U.S. ownership of Gaza

President Donald Trump on Tuesday suggested that displaced Palestinians in Gaza be permanently resettled outside the war-torn territory and proposed the U.S. take "ownership" in redeveloping the area.

Kalispell officials blast Legislature for potentially sunsetting mill levies

Kalispell officials bashed the state Legislature Monday night for proposing two bills that would sunset all voter-approved mill levies.

Columbia Falls takes input on Gateway to Glacier transportation project

The Gateway to Glacier Safety and Mobility Improvement Project will use the $10 million RAISE grant funds awarded to Columbia Falls in 2022.

Mitchell, Sprunger see bills pass out of the House

Flathead Valley legislators on Monday shepherded a clutch of bills through the Montana House of Representatives, including legislation related to work status verification, voting and petitioning, and a resolution celebrating Donald Trump’s presidency.

Law roundup: Man horsing around in ‘tactical gear’ goes berserk

A man and woman were allegedly joking around and it was all fun and games until “all of a sudden” the man, who was wearing a tactical helmet, vest and glasses he bought on Amazon, got upset and started punching the walls, destroying items and then broke the front door down.

John Dale Mitts, 85

John Dale Mitts, 85, was born to Doris Kelly Mitts and William Milas Mitts on Sept. 22, 1939, in Colorado.

Plan to manage Flathead River recreation garners mixed reactions

A proposed set of rules aimed at regulating recreation on the Flathead River is generating more questions than answers for many residents.

Washington man pulled off Amtrak train in Libby pleads guilty to federal gun charges

A Washington man convicted of indecent exposure in Lincoln County last year has pleaded guilty to illegal gun possession in federal court.

Legals for February, 5 2025

Major winter storm slams into Flathead Valley

Blowing and drifting snow created dangerous road conditions Tuesday as a major winter storm blew into Western Montana.

Keeping Score: Freeride World Championships, basketball showdowns and wrestling wins

This week we have a local skier turning heads in Austria, Flathead and Glacier pick up some dual wins in wrestling and a short week of basketball as a lot of games were postponed due to inclement weather, so without further ado, let’s get into this week’s highlights you might have missed.

Local Events: Can't miss February events, Carnival, theatre, skijoring and Soles of the Flathead

Crisp winter days are upon us, but a warm and inviting social life awaits my February friends.

Headlines: Tribal hunting bill, Republican Medicaid Expansion bills, and robotics teams advance to state

Tribal officials oppose proposed hunting bill on Flathead Indian Reservation, Republican Medicaid expansion bills advance in Legislature, and Flathead Valley robotics teams advance to state competition.

China counters with tariffs on US products. It will also investigate Google

BEIJING (AP) — China announced retaliatory tariffs on select American imports and an antitrust investigation into Google on Tuesday, just minutes after a sweeping levy on Chinese products imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump took effect.

Waffle House is passing along the sky high cost of eggs to diners with a 50 cent surcharge

NEW YORK (AP) — The Waffle House restaurant chain is putting a 50 cent per egg surcharge in place due to the biggest bird flu outbreak in a decade.

Law roundup: Abandoned black bag scares staff

A manager called the Kalispell Police Department Employees because employees were allegedly afraid to pick up a black bag that had been sitting in the parking lot for at least 24 hours. Officers collected the bag without incident.

Legals for February, 4 2025

Kalispell moving forward with well replacement despite funding uncertainty

Kalispell officials say they are still uncertain whether the city will receive federal dollars to replace two wells contaminated by forever chemicals but are forging ahead with the project.

Four men detained by Border Patrol temporarily held in county jail

Four men held in the Flathead County Detention Center last week on immigration detainers were put there by the U.S. Border Patrol, officials say.

Rubio will face questions about a deal to deport Americans and USAID turmoil

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AP) — Secretary of State Marco Rubio will press the Trump administration's priority of cracking down on immigration when he meets Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves on Tuesday, a day after reaching an unusual agreement with El Salvador's leader to accept U.S. deportees of any nationality, including violent American criminals.

Happy Valley mobile home park seeks expansion

A mobile home park in Happy Valley is looking to expand by adding 30 home spaces.

Letters to the editor Feb. 4

Letters to the editor Feb. 4

Flathead High School speech and debate finishes second at state, edged out of title by one point

Class AA speech and debate state runner-up, Flathead High School, was edged out of winning the championship title by one point, a bittersweet moment for head coach Shannon O’Donnell, who retires at the end of the school year.

Whitefish High School speech and debate captures state title

Whitefish High School had the last word this season, bringing home that state title by defeating the defending state champion, Columbia Falls High School.

Poster Player of the Week: Cooper Pelc of Glacier High

This week’s poster player of the week goes to Cooper Pelc of the Glacier Wolfpack.

Travel will be treacherous Tuesday as whiteout conditions hit the Flathead Valley

Heavy snowfall and blizzard conditions will target Northwest Montana on Tuesday as frigid air clashes with a plume of Pacific moisture.

Trump agrees to pause tariffs on Mexico, Canada after they pledge to boost border enforcement

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday that their planned tariffs were on hold for a month to give time for further negotiations, and Mexico said it planned to deploy 10,000 members of its national guard to address drug trafficking.

Wall Street falls following Trump's tariffs

NEW YORK (AP) — Worries about President Donald Trump's tariffs are sending U.S. stocks through sharp swings on Monday as financial markets worldwide drop on concerns about a potential trade war.

Mental health center CEO aims to expand services

A fourth-generation Montanan, Bob Lopp was born and raised in Kalispell. Growing up, his parents were always involved in the community, a concept he brought into his adult life too.

Law roundup: Credit card thief goes on liquor run

Someone whose credit card was reportedly stolen from their mailbox and used at a liquor store called the Kalispell Police Department wanting to know if they could get surveillance footage to catch the partying thief.

Whitefish votes on adding parkland along river

Whitefish City Council on Monday is set to consider accepting an additional chunk of parkland next to the Roundhouse Landing Park along the Whitefish River.

Legals for February, 3 2025

Letters to the editor Feb. 3

Letters to the editor Feb. 3

America's last big-city stockyard in downtown Oklahoma City is up for sale

In the heart of thriving Oklahoma City lies a more than 100-year-old relic to the city's western heritage: one of the largest cattle stockyards in the world. As many as 10,000 head of cattle are bought and sold every week at the Oklahoma National Stockyards.

Shirley Dyer-McDaniel, 90

Shirley Ellen Dyer McDaniel, 90, passed away peacefully at home with family at her side on Jan. 4, 2025

European Central bank cuts benchmark rate by a quarter percentage point to boost stagnant economy

The European Central Bank is cutting its key interest rate, a step to boost an economy that's struggling to grow as consumers burned by inflation warily eye price tags and businesses try to chart a course amid political turmoil in leading economies France and Germany.

Kalispell City Council to vote on skybridge amendment

Kalispell may see more skybridges go up in the coming future.

Trump says Americans could feel 'some pain' from his new tariffs

President Donald Trump said Sunday that Americans could feel "some pain" from the emerging trade war triggered by his tariffs against Canada, Mexico and China, and claimed that Canada would "cease to exist" without its trade surplus with the United States.

Braves, Wolfpack swimmers battle at Missoula Invite

MISSOULA — A shorthanded Flathead boys swimming team finished 8th at the Missoula Invite Saturday, while the also-undermanned Glacier teams finished 11th for the boys and 12th for the girls.

Tracy Manus, 80

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Tracy Manus.

'Gubernatorial Privilege' decision yet another barrier to transparency in Montana

In its second decision of the new year, O’Neill v. Gianforte, the Montana Supreme Court determined that “gubernatorial privilege” allows the governor to refuse to hand over otherwise public records that contain “candid advice” given to him by officials within the executive branch.

Elden David Gamache, 95

Elden Gamache, 95, passed away peacefully on Dec. 26, 2024.

Regier’s plan makes middle-class a priority

Lower taxes have been a key talking point for Gov. Greg Gianforte as he rolls out his budget priorities for the 2025 Legislature, and last week he showcased his plan to reduce the state income tax rate for most earners.

Government shakeup hits National Park Service

As part of the Trump administration's government hiring freeze, hundreds of workers expecting to fill seasonal roles at the National Park Service saw their job offers rescinded earlier this month.

Brady R. Fleming, 45

Brady Fleming stepped out of his home on Dec. 15, 2024, and fell down the stairs, suffering a cardiac arrest.

Legals for February, 2 2025

Flathead boys fall; games in Kalispell postponed

MISSOULA — Zane Gillhouse led a balanced Missoula Hellgate offense with 13 points, and the host Knights weathered a couple Flathead charges to take a 64-56 Western AA boys basketball win Saturday.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Happenings related to business

Timothy Lee Peters, 54

Timothy Lee Peters, 54, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully after a long health battle on Jan. 8, 2025.

Sally Ann Ramos, 87

Sally Ann (Driscoll) Ramos died on Jan. 20, 2025, at home in Kalispell, surrounded by her loving family.

Letters to the editor Feb. 2

Letters to the editor Feb. 2

Donald 'Don' J. Burns, 76

Donald "Don" J. Burns, of Columbia Falls, passed away suddenly from a heart attack on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, and went home to be with the Lord.

U.S. economy grows solid 2.3% in October-December on eve of Trump return to White House

The American economy ended 2024 on a solid note with consumer spending continuing to drive growth. The Commerce Department reported Thursday that gross domestic product — the economy's output of goods and services — expanded at a 2.3% annual rate from October through December. For the full year, the economy grew a healthy 2.8%, compared to 2.9% in 2023.

Montana must strive to attract top teachers

Some good news out of the Montana Legislature this session is that legislators seem to agree on two things: The need to fund a high-quality education for Montana students and a need to lower property taxes.

A vibrant rural Montana needs vibrant nonprofits

When Montanans think about rural Montana, they picture the small towns where they grew up, raised their families, visited relatives or built their businesses. Our hopes for these communities include bustling downtowns, solid school enrollment, strong anchor businesses and engaging community events.

Charlotte Jean Hall, 86

Charlotte Jean Hall, 86, passed away peacefully on Nov. 23, 2024, with family present in Kalispell.

Three Rivers Bank partners with Merit Financial Advisors

This partnership will enable the bank to provide comprehensive wealth management services to clients in the Flathead Valley, helping individuals, families, and businesses strategize their growth, and preserving their financial assets, according to a press release.

Law roundup: Explosion blows hole in resident’s front door

A woman was reportedly jolted awake by the sound of an explosion and the smell of smoke.

Measuring Risk: Learning how to explore the backcountry with the Patrol Fund

Towering snow-laden trees engulf me after hopping off the Flower Point chairlift and into out-of-bounds terrain.

The truth is in here

Truth truly is stranger than fiction. One institution stocks plenty of both.

Boys roundup: Curley bucket lifts Polson over Ronan

RONAN — Malakai Curley poured in 28 points, including a short turnaround jumper with 2.5 seconds left that lifted Polson over Ronan 62-60 in Northwest A boys basketball Saturday.

Wolfpack wrestlers split duals with Helena schools

HELENA — Glacier’s Matthew and Mark Ahner grabbed a pair of pins apiece as the Wolfpack boys split duals with Helena and Capital Friday.

Girls roundup: Browning, Ronan win big

RONAN — Ronan’s Kailyn Marengo hit three 3-pointers on the way to 18 points, teammate Nevaeh Perez added 17 and the Maidens beat Polson 71-50 in Northwest A girls basketball Saturday.

We need all tools to stay safe from fire

As the tragic Los Angeles wildfires have unfolded, it’s been devastating to watch entire communities reduced to ash. While Montanans extended our thoughts and prayers to everyone affected, the L.A. fires have also been a stark reminder of the extreme danger that hot, dry fuels and strong winds pose to our families, communities and property.

Coram-West Glacier fire department receives safety grant

The Coram-West Glacier Volunteer Fire District received $10,000 toward replacing handheld radios critical to communications along the 55-mile swath of U.S. 2 that runs from Hungry Horse to Marias Pass and borders Glacier National Park, the Flathead River, the Flathead National Forest, the BNSF and Amtrak rail lines, and gas and electric infrastructure.

Flathead Food Bank holds Mardi Gras Gala fundraiser

Featuring a Dixieland jazz band, street performers, and authentic Cajun cuisine.

Bigfork firearms manufacturer continues to grow

The Bigfork firearms manufacturer expects to carry a new pistol system, and company officials are looking forward to maximizing space, personnel and machinery to keep up with demand that is expected as a result.

Flathead wrestling teams go 4--0 in Helena

HELENA -- Julia Kay led the Bravettes with an 8-2 decision over returning state champion Taylor Lay of Capital at 130 pounds. Kay added a victory over Helena’s Addison Kissell.

C-Falls' big 4th quarter gives Cats big win over Browning

COLUMBIA FALLS — The Wildcats outscored the Indians 19-11 in the fourth quarter, to aout a Northwest A win at home over Browning, 55-53 Friday night.

Gianforte touts hefty income tax cut proposal

Appearing alongside national anti-tax advocate Grover Norquist at a Thursday press conference, Gov. Greg Gianforte touted his proposal to reduce Montana’s primary income tax bracket by a full percentage point, down from 5.9% to 4.9%.

Kalispell felon sought after violating terms of suspended sentence

Prosecutors are seeking the revocation of 40-year-old Troy Allen Hale's April 2024 suspended sentence in Flathead County District Court.

Polson explores options for second fire station

The Polson City Commission authorized city staff to explore a potential land transfer or purchase with Cougar Ridge Development that could provide property to build a second fire station.d