Ellington

PHOTOS: Bulldogs bounce Butte Central, 52-6

Photos from the Whitefish Bulldogs' 52-6 win over the Butte Central Catholic Maroons in a Class A playoff game at Memorial Field in Whitefish on Friday, Oct. 31.

A Football: Whitefish overpowers Butte Central

WHITEFISH — There were a few tricks and a lot of treats Friday as Whitefish defeated Butte Central 52-6 in a Class A football playoffs first round game.

A Football: Bigfork falls to Hamilton

HAMILTON — Hamilton quarterback Cooper Weston ran for two touchdowns and threw for another, and the Broncs outscored Bigfork 46-20 in a Class A first-round playoff game Friday night.

Keeping Score: Whitefish Bulldogs push to the playoffs

Whitefish Leans on Dynamic Duo Ahead of Playoff Clash with Butte Central.

Greater Valley Health Center opens new centralized clinic

What began as the Flathead Community Health Center in 2007 has provided family health care, including medical, dental and behavioral health services.

Speech and debate teams talk shop about the season ahead

Kalispell’s high school speech and debate teams have a lot to say about the upcoming season with a mix of returning and new competitors — and a new head coach at Flathead High School.

Whitefish man admits to assaulting police officer during bowling alley fight

A 28-year-old Whitefish man accused of fighting police officers at a bowling alley earlier this year pleaded guilty in October to felony assault on a peace officer.

Whitefish, Bigfork set for playoff openers

Football’s second season is here and Whitefish hopes for treats and not tricks against Butte Central in a win-or-go-home matchup on Halloween Friday, while Bigfork heads to Hamilton for the first round.

Bigfork, C-Falls ready for girls soccer showdown

It’s a northwest Montana party in the Class A soccer state championship matches Saturday as Columbia Falls hosts Bigfork in the girls title match while Polson welcomes Whitefish in the boys championship.

Poster Player of the Week: Cole Moses of Whitefish High

This week’s Poster Player of the Week goes to Whitefish running back Cole Moses.

Permit, insurance requirements left Kalispell veterans group scrambling ahead of Veterans Day flag display

Kalispell's Veterans of Foreign Wars post is in talks with City Hall after officials designated the nonprofit’s longstanding tradition of displaying American flags on patriotic holidays as a special event requiring permits and insurance.

Law roundup: Officers arrest a would-be pickax murderer

The caller described the would-be pickax murderer as an older man with gray hair who usually sits on the street corner and yells at people. Officers found the man and deposited him in the county jail.

Legals for October, 31 2025

Social media's negative impacts on Glacier highlighted by outdoor summit speakers

As Two Bear Air Rescue’s helicopter hovered close to a steep cliff in Glacier National Park to recover the body of a man who had fallen to his death in July, numerous people with cellphones hiked the nearby Highline Trail.

Daphne Joyce Miller, 91

Daphne Joyce Miller, 91, died suddenly in Dillion on Sept. 11, 2025.

50th NRA Finals at Majestic Valley Arena

KALISPELL — The 50th Annual Northern Rodeo Association Finals are back at the Majestic Valley Arena, with performances set for 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Suspect in indecent exposure case committed to state Department of Health and Human Services

A man arrested in 2023 for allegedly exposing himself to two young girls in Kalispell received a five-year commitment to the state Department of Health and Human Services earlier this year.

PHOTOS: Halloween house on East California Street

Kalispell resident Trevor Caudill has been decorating his front yard for Halloween at 340 East California Street for the last 12 years. Each year he adds a few pieces to the elaborate, neon-lit display divided into sections adorning his front yard.

Annual Northern Rockies Snow and Avalanche Workshop is Nov. 8

The Flathead Avalanche Center announces the 15th Annual Northern Rockies Snow and Avalanche Workshop (NRSAW) to be held on Saturday, Nov. 8 at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Flathead Valley nonprofits prepared to deal with hunger pains after feds cancel SNAP benefits

About 4,500 households in Flathead and Lincoln counties will not receive the federal food benefits they rely on this November, according to local food security organizations.

Former Whitefish Police officer denies accusation of racial profiling

Former Whitefish Police officer Michael Hingiss is refuting allegations of racial profiling and unlawful conduct after he contacted federal immigration officials during a routine traffic stop earlier this year.

Heart of Whitefish: Cole Moses embodies the Bulldog spirit

Under the cottonwoods that tower above the Whitefish football field, senior Cole Moses pauses to take it all in, amid the noise of the Dog Pound.

Halloween events take place in downtown Kalispell

The Kalispell Parks and Recreation Department is hosting the Depot Park Pumpkin Stroll on Oct. 30-31.

State must protect SNAP benefits during shutdown

As the federal government shutdown stretches on, food banks and other food access organizations across Northwest Montana are preparing for a wave of need unlike anything we’ve seen in years.

DNA on cigarette butt smokes out burglary suspect

DNA from a tossed cigarette butt led investigators to a suspect in a 2023 burglary at a Columbia Falls tractor dealer, prosecutors say.

Comedian Tig Notaro to make Kalispell stop on Out of Nowhere Tour

Tickets go on sale Friday to see award-winning stand-up comedian, Tig Notaro, on her Out of Nowhere Tour scheduled June 11 at the Wachholz College Center.

Law roundup: Who wears short shorts

A caller asked Kalispell Police Department officers to check on the welfare of a man standing off the highway, laughing, because it was cold and he was purportedly only wearing underwear and earbuds and his skin looked very red.

Legals for October, 30 2025

Auditions open for a Whitefish Theatre Company production of ‘World Builders’

The Whitefish Theatre Company is holding auditions for “World Builders” by Johnna Adams, their second Black Curtain production of the 2025-2026 season.

Flathead High School brings pure imagination to the stage with ‘Willy Wonka'

Get ready to enter a world of pure imagination as Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka” hits the stage at Flathead High School in a colorful, exciting production full of music, magic, and chocolate. Performances will be held in the high school auditorium at 6:27 p.m. Nov. 6 and 7. On Nov. 8, performances are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 6:27 p.m.

Montana still favors the GOP, but new poll shows residents unhappy with current leadership

Just because Montana is a red state, doesn’t mean residents are satisfied with Republican leadership according to a new annual poll released Tuesday.

Daphne Joyce Miller, 91

Daphne Joyce Miller, 91, died suddenly in Dillion on Sept. 11, 2025.

UM students explore animal behavior with camera traps

On a hillside in northwest Montana, Mahdieh Tourani secures a camera to a tree.

Full Count: Vals are no less amazing this season

When we last checked in with Bigfork soccer coach Park Schara, he was giddy about his Valkyries and their 1-1 draw with Laurel on Aug. 26, 2022.

The ballroom boondoggle

“Boondoggle” is a term used to describe an unnecessary project generally considered wasteful and often undertaken or continued due to political motivations.

Letters to the editor Oct. 30

Letters to the editor Oct. 30

Darryl Goulet, 88

"Our family is sad to announce the news that Darryl Eugene Goulet, 88, passed away on Oct. 20, 2025, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho."

Met Opera Live in HD presents ‘La Sonnambula’

Metropolitan Opera Live in HD to air “La Sonnambula” (“The Sleepwalker”), which will be shown at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center Nov. 1.

Thousands of pounds of pork bound for Montana food banks following feral swine investigation

After the state intervened to trap about 100 swine demonstrating feral behaviors, Montana food banks are slated to receive an influx of pork this week.

Whitefish rallies past C-Falls in 5

WHITEFISH — Camry Kelch and Annabelle Barrile combined for 25 Whitefish kills and the Bulldogs rallied from two sets down to beat Columbia Falls in Northwest A volleyball Tuesday.

AA Volleyball: Flathead falls in 5, Glacier swept

Emily O’Dell had 12 kills, Bristol Lenz had 10, and Flathead took Missoula Sentinel to five sets before falling in a Western AA volleyball match at the Flathead gym Tuesday.

Spartan Race returns to Flathead Valley next year

Spartan Race is an athletic fitness brand that hosts a variety of obstacle course race events across the world. The four-race series, including the Sprint, Super, Beast and Ultra races, is set to take place in Bigfork.

Gallatin soccer strikes three times, defeats Glacier in semis

BOZEMAN — Ezekiel Leighton scored a first-half header and the Gallatin Raptors added two more goals in the second half to take a 3-0 victory over Glacier in the State AA boys soccer semifinals Tuesday at Bozeman Sports Park.

Griz get 7 home games next season

UM also starts with a league game

With an extra week added to the football calendar by the NCAA and the addition of two new league members, the Big Sky has revised its 2026 football schedule, the conference announced Tuesday.

League slate starts in Week 0 for Bobcats

Montana State’s 2026 football season opens with a conference road game at first-year Big Sky member Utah Tech and closes with the 125th Bobcat-Grizzly game in Bozeman.

Roundup for Safety supports first responders’ radio requests

Flathead Electric Cooperative’s Roundup for Safety board of directors awarded $23,747 in support of nine community life safety projects.

Design for Whitefish High School expansion completed

A major milestone has been reached by A&E Design for the Whitefish High School expansion project.

Fergus Norman Prestbye, 79

Fergus N. Prestbye, 79, passed away on Sept. 2, 2025.

Women Who Wine holds fundraising gala

The evening celebrates a year of giving and honors these local nonprofits supported by the group in 2025.

Legals for October, 29 2025

Meetings discuss conservation easements

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is hosting upcoming public meetings with private landowners and staff from Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation about lands under conservation easement in northwest Montana.

California man faces revocation of suspended sentence

Charles Delaney Warren, 31, was convicted of felony criminal endangerment and misdemeanor driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in 2024 after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors.

Lions Club ornament sale dates set

Only 350 of the limited-edition ornaments are available for $10 each.

State funding boost keeps Flathead Meals on Wheels program moving

The Flathead County Agency on Aging avoided cuts to its home-delivered meals program after receiving a funding boost from the state Legislature — the first in a decade.

Law roundup: Drunk man wants to fight with the manager

A drunk man wanted to fight with, rather than speak with, the manager of a store he reportedly had shoplifted from earlier.

Kalispell Council veers from federal grant for East Oregon after funding rules change

Kalispell intended to build permanent traffic safety measures on the corridor with money awarded from the Safe Streets For All grant program.

Briefs: Sac State coach fined; Rorie drafted into G League

FARMINGTON, Utah — The Big Sky Conference reprimanded and fined Sacramento State football coach Brennan Marion $10,000 Wednesday for comments made about officiating of his team’s games.

First responders testify in trial of man accused of running over his ex-wife in Martin City

Kenneth James Floyd has pleaded not guilty to felony counts of negligent homicide, leaving the scene of a vehicle accident involving serious bodily injury or death and tampering with physical evidence.

Big Sky Now: Cats climb, Eagles surge, and Griz roll

Join Luke Schmit and the Big Sky Now panel as they break down every key matchup from Week 9 — from Montana’s win over Sacramento State to UC Davis staying alive — and make predictions for a high-stakes Week 10.

Hunters turn out for opening weekend

Montana’s general deer and elk hunting season opened last weekend with seasonable weather and a strong showing at regional game check stations.

Opioid-like substance kratom remains unregulated in Montana despite warnings

Variations of kratom with alluring flavors — blue raspberry, rocket pop, mango — line the shelves of a Kalispell convenience store. From pills to powder to drinks to capsules, the products are displayed in a locked cabinet.

Evergreen administrator named Montana Superintendent of the Year for her leadership, dedication and advocacy – Polson school board also honored

Laurie Barron has been named Montana’s Superintendent of the Year for a second time since joining Evergreen School District in 2013.

Thinking outside the box on housing

Let me begin by saying that I firmly believe we have a missing element in our current housing strategy here in Kalispell.

Letters to the editor Oct. 28

Letters to the editor for Oct. 28

Montana small aircraft crash rate among highest in the nation

The Wednesday evening helicopter crash that claimed the lives of four people near Ekalaka in southeast Montana was one of six fatal general aviation crashes so far in Montana this year.

Officials urge voters to turn in ballots as Election Day nears

Flathead County voters must remember to include their year of birth on their ballots as they prepare to cast their vote by Election Day.

Governor, federal delegation send letter to Interior targeting American Prairie

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte, as well as all four members of the state’s federal delegation signed on to a letter last month claiming American Prairie’s bison restoration project is at odds with the state’s economy.

Jedediah 'Jed' Cole Savage, 44

Jedediah "Jed" Cole Savage, 44, passed away on Oct. 23, 2025, of a heart complication.

Legals for October, 28 2025

3 Griz land Big Sky football honors

It was almost a clean sweep for the Montana Grizzlies football team.

Law roundup: Tenant dawdles on packing up after eviction

An evicted tenant was reportedly permitted to retrieve her belongings, but she was making little progress and refusing to leave when asked.

Local Events: Ski films, storytelling, and holiday cheer

Local Events host Melissa Wells rounds up November’s can’t-miss happenings — from seeing David Sedaris live at the Wachholz College Center, to getting your winter stoke on with Warren Miller’s Sno-Ciety, to shopping local at Christmas at the Fairgrounds.

US coffee prices spike due to tariffs and poor weather

Coffee prices have been rising sharply since the start of this year. Tariffs are partly to blame. The U.S. imports 99% of its coffee.

Inside Flathead County Jail: The crisis behind the $105 million bond

As Flathead County voters weigh a $105 million bond to build a new detention facility, the Daily Inter Lake goes behind bars for an unfiltered look at the conditions facing inmates and officers alike.

Brazilian farmers beef up soybean production as China halts business with US during trade fight

Brazilian farmers are increasing soybean production as the U.S. and China engage in a trade fight. The conflict has shut American soybeans out of the Chinese market, leading China to seek more Brazilian supply. China's customs body reported no U.S. soybean imports in September, a first since November 2018.

Kalispell City Council to consider traffic safety grant funding for East Oregon Street

Kalispell City Council on Monday will consider moving forward with a project to put temporary traffic safety measures on East Oregon Street.

Spreading faith and joy: Sister Judy Lund looks toward retirement after 70 years of teaching

After over three decades teaching at St. Matthew’s Catholic School on Main Street in Kalispell, the ebullient 90-year-old Dominican sister cherished by staff and students has decided to retire at the end of the school year.

Letters to the editor Oct. 27

Letters to the editor Oct. 27

Legals for October, 27 2025

A challenging route up Glacier's Mount Saint Nicholas

Sheer, foreboding, and guarded by an uncompromising bushwhack, Mount Saint Nicholas is the epitome of Glacier Park alpinism. Driving east along Highway 2, Mount Saint Nicholas beckons from the isolated southern end of Glacier as a solitary citadel of stone, jutting ever skyward. Nick is one of a handful of Glacier Peaks with no easy way to its summit. Technical skills, bullheaded persistence, and a bit of luck are required to stand atop its 9,376 foot summit. Since its first known ascent in 1933, St. Nicholas, with its countless spine-chilling faces, has remained a beacon of alpine climbing in Glacier Park. Its most infamous aspect being the southwest face, visible from Highway 2.

Wildlife managers look to hunters for help bagging deadly disease

Dropping temperatures and falling leaves mean one thing for many Montanans: hunting season is here.

Ronald James Parker, 83

Ronald James Parker, 83, lifelong fisherman and resident of Flathead Valley, was snagged and reeled up to Heaven on Oct. 12, 2025, where he was reunited with his loving wife, Jane, whom he has missed so much.

Giving Together for the Flathead Valley

Each year, the Great Fish Community Challenge reminds us what makes the Flathead Valley so special. It’s not just the mountains and lakes that keep us here — it’s the spirit of generosity and shared purpose that thrive in this community.

Joshua Hunter, 36

It is with deep sadness to announce that Lt. Joshua Michael Hunter passed away on Oct. 9, 2025, in Yorktown, Virginia, while on active duty for the United States Navy.

A surprising 1-2 Wolfpack punch

MISSOULA — It turned out Owen Thiel had plenty to celebrate.

Flathead volleyball falls to Missoula Big Sky

Flathead took a first set win, but Missoula Big Sky nabbed the next three to down the Bravettes Saturday in Western AA volleyball.

Encounters with a ruffed grouse

If you didn’t know what you were listening to, you might suspect a larger creature was stirring in the brush.

Purple power puts Lady Pirates in 3rd

MISSOULA — Cross country titles might be a rite of passage for the Hardin Bulldogs, but the Polson Lady Pirates have been building — and decorating — toward a trophy for a while.

Marilynn Arhart, 78

Marilynn Joyce Arhart, a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on Oct. 20, 2025, leaving behind a legacy rooted in love, faith, and quiet strength.

The grunt to Fifty Mountain is worth it

It was barely light enough to take a photo as I strapped on my pack and peered into the brush. At first, I saw a cow moose in the brush and then what was really making a racket: A big bull moose, one of the largest I’ve seen in Glacier National Park in quite a few years.

Bigfork and Columbia Falls girls set for State Championship

It’s an all-Flathead Valley championship in girls Class A Soccer as Columbia Falls held serve at home and Bigfork pulled an upset on the road.

Kalispell’s future is on the ballot

Ballots arrived in area mailboxes last week, and while there are no statewide or federal races, Flathead County voters still face several key issues and difficult decisions.

Cookies for a cause: Montana business uses treats to raise awareness about fentanyl

Her business, Tommy’s Cookie Co. — which sells homemade cookie brittle — donates a percentage of all sales to fentanyl awareness every year.

Dangerous landing habits preceded Kalispell airport crash, experts say

The small plane that crashed at the Kalispell City Airport in August had a history of making dangerous landing approaches, aviation experts say.

James 'Jim' A. Hanson Jr., 90

On Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, Jimmie Hanson, 90, passed away at Logan Health Medical Center from injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Whitefish.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Events happening related to business in the Flathead Valley

Pirates, Bulldogs earn spot in Boys A soccer championship

It took penalty kicks, but Polson is into the boys State A soccer championship match with a 6-5 shootout win over Columbia Falls.

Legals for October, 26 2025

Support our public lands and our public employees

Wanting to do something tangible to express my support for our public lands, I walked into a Forest Service office and asked, “May I volunteer?”

Letters to the editor Oct. 26

Letters to the editor Oct. 26

PHOTOS: Evergreen Trunk-or-Treat 2025

Costumed trunk-or-treaters collect candy and goodies at the trunk-or-treat event held by the Evergreen Chamber of Commerce at Evergreen Junior High on Saturday, Oct. 25.

Kalispell’s failed bid for a federal grant leaves bypass construction unfunded

Kalispell has missed out on a grant that would have accelerated construction of the south end of the U.S. 93 Bypass, meaning the highway will remain unfinished and unfunded indefinitely.

Wilson shines in Orediggers rout over Comets

Polson product Jarrett Wilson threw for 184 yards and scored four total touchdowns in No. 4 Montana Tech’s 51-0 runaway victory over Mayville State (ND) on Saturday.

AG Knudsen’s ballot language misleads voters

Montanans have long supported our nonpartisan courts. This support cuts across party, across generations and across the state. Public polling has consistently shown that 65% of Montanans want to keep partisanship out of judicial elections.

Montana Agritourism Conference set for Nov. 20-21 at Montana State

The first iteration of the event was held in May of 2024, drawing roughly 150 agricultural producers, tourism professionals, educators and community members to explore the intersection of agricultural production and tourism in Montana.

Juanita Burton, 94

Juanita Kugler Burton passed away peacefully in Kalispell after a brief illness on Oct. 20, 2025.

Kalispell Middle Schoolers sweat it out together through fitness program

Whether hiking to the summit of Mount Aeneas, biking Going-to-the-Sun Road, skiing Blacktail Mountain, ice skating in Woodland Park, going to a rock-climbing gym, or lifting weights at Kalispell Middle School — Students Who Exercise Together aren’t afraid to sweat it out with their classmates.

Iris Jones, 89

This little light of mine. I'm going to let it shine. And it did — Iris' mission was to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Headlines: Glacier Park and Australia connected, landmark land conservation deal, and record-breaking nonprofit giving

Geological evidence suggests Glacier was once attached to Australia, MT Land Board adds 53K acres to conservation easement, and Great Fish Challenge nets over $8 million.

A crowning achievement: Champion larch tree tells stories of stewardship in the Swan Valley

Autumn in western Montana is like a warm-hued sunset.

PHOTOS: Bulldogs come back to bite Bigfork, 22-21

Photos from the Whitefish Bulldogs' 22-21 win over the Bigfork Vikings at Bigfork High School on Friday, Oct. 24.

Legislator Bill Mercer confirmed to U.S. District Court judgeship

Former Montana U.S. attorney Bill Mercer was confirmed to a U.S. District Court judgeship in a partisan vote by the U.S. Senate on Wednesday night.

Ronan Native American Club attends Black Hills Powwow

The Ronan High School Native American Club traveled to the 37th annual Black Hills Powwow for a unique experience. The celebration in Rapid City was a three-day extravaganza with dancers, singers, artists, and vendors. According to the Visit Rapid City website, the powwow draws in spectators from across the country to honor the spirit of the Great Plains Indigenous Culture.

Glacier soccer overcomes pair of red cards to defeat Billings Senior

Down a pair of players, but up on the scoreboard.

Flathead falls to Sentinel, 21-7

MISSOULA — Rudy Hess threw for one touchdown and ran for two more, and Missoula Sentinel outlasted Flathead 21-7 in Western AA football action Friday at Washington-Grizzly Stadium.

Whitefish rallies past Bigfork for No. 2 seed

BIGFORK — Whitefish clawed back from an 11-point fourth quarter deficit to defeat Bigfork 22-21 Friday night.

Archery malfunctions, mishaps and misses

Three headlamps bobbed along the gated mountain road, boots treading lightly yet swiftly as my husband Christopher, our surrogate hunting father Mike, and I trekked toward our early morning waypoint.

New state law leads to hundreds of ballot rejections

A new Montana law requiring a voter’s birth year has led to county election officials rejecting an abnormal number of ballots for this year’s local elections.

Griz thump Hornets, 49-35

SACRAMENTO — The Panda Bowl was almost all Panda.

Democratic candidates emphasize ranch roots and military experience in Montana’s western House primary

One month after pledging to fight for more of the state’s rural vote, Democrats have fielded not one but two western House district candidates with ranch roots and military experience.

Kalispell needs executive leadership, not just legislative experience

Kalispell is at a critical tipping point. We all recognize the challenges: growth straining our infrastructure, rising housing costs and the essential need to keep our streets safe and secure amidst all this change.

C-Falls outscores Libby, 50-26

Polson, Eureka win big

COLUMBIA FALLS — Easton Brooks scored four touchdowns, including an interception return, and Columbia Falls outscored Libby 50-26 in a Northwest A football battle Friday.

Mural adorning North Kalispell pedestrian tunnel erased after years of attracting offensive graffiti

The mural that had enlivened the pedestrian tunnel by Glacier High School was painted over Thursday, signaling the end of a lengthy and bitter battle with graffiti artists.

Griz-Cats Capsules

Sac State is 3-21 vs. Top-5 FCS teams, with wins over No. 5 Montana in 2019 and 2021.

Poster Player of the Week: Easton Brooks of Columbia Falls

This week’s Poster Player of the Week goes to Columbia Falls defensive back Easton Brooks.

Flathead’s Zuffelato goes way off track

In 2022, Ryker Zuffelato ran his first varsity cross country race for Flathead and clocked 19 minutes, 2 seconds over the 5,000-meter course.

Flathead Valley Community College enrollment on the rebound since Covid-19 pandemic

Enrollment at Flathead Valley Community College is gradually returning toward pre-pandemic numbers.

Montana’s Williams named preseason MVP

FARMINGTON, Utah — A season removed from being named the league’s Top Reserve, Montana’s Money Williams has been named Big Sky Conference Men’s Basketball Preseason Most Valuable Player.

Lady Griz earn 2 preseason All-Big Sky selections, Cats have 1

FARMINGTON, Utah — The 2025-26 Big Sky Women's Basketball Preseason Team has been revealed with Sacramento State's Benthe Versteeg highlights the team, earning Preseason MVP honors, the conference office announced on Thursday.

Coram man back behind bars after missing court appearance in assault case

Arraigned on one count of assault with a weapon before Judge Paul Sullivan on May 29, Russell Loren Tolbert, 38, of Coram entered a not guilty plea and was directed to return to court on Sept. 17 for a pretrial conference.

Legals for October, 24 2025

Turn off the bus

Wolfpack secure all home games for AA football playoffs

The road to the State AA championship runs through Kalispell and Legends Stadium.

Glacier’s Thiel has designs on fitting finale

Glacier’s Owen Thiel owns the third-best time over a cross country course in Montana this fall, and you’d figure that would have plenty of colleges calling.

County approves final ‘doughnut’ zoning for Columbia Falls

The Flathead County Commissioners on Oct. 14 approved county zoning in the former “doughnut” around the city of Columbia Falls.

Bravettes fall in Butte in 4 sets

BUTTE — Makenna Aldrich had 14 kills and seven blocks, the Flathead Bravettes still fell to Butte in four close sets Thursday in Western AA volleyball.

Crappy situation lands man in district court

Alan Dean Hawkins, 63, faces one felony count of assault with a weapon in Flathead County District Court in connection with the Sept. 19 confrontation. He pleaded not guilty at his Oct. 16 arraignment before Judge Danni Coffman.

Stakeholders given look inside new Flathead Valley Reentry Center

Staff at the Flathead Valley Reentry Center are wrapping up training as the facility prepares to accept its first residential inmates on Oct. 27.

Law roundup: Hotel clerk worried that guest was in hot water

An employee suspected a hotel guest checking in was involved in a concerning situation when they reportedly asked them not to tell anyone they were there.

Glacier girls are 2 fastest in AA field

Seems like Glacier High is saving the best for last.

Carol Walker, 81

Carol Joan Walker, 81, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend, passed away on Oct. 16, 2025.

Three Whitefish City Council seats to be filled in November election

Voters will select three Whitefish City Councilors in the Nov. 4 municipal election.

PHOTOS: Glacier clinches home playoffs with 42-12 win over Big Sky

Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack's 42-12 win over the Missoula Big Sky Eagles at Legends Stadium on Thursday, Oct. 23.

Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Series: Ryan Hunter

From tackling affordable housing and public safety to improving infrastructure and downtown development, Hunter shares how his experience on the Kalispell City Council has shaped his approach to leadership.

State inspectors and partners honored for AIS prevention

Montana’s Aquatic Invasive Species team was recently recognized by the Western Regional Panel of the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force as the 2025 “Best in the West” for its exceptional work preventing the spread of invasive species across the state’s waters.

4 family members of Illinois governor candidate killed in Montana helicopter crash, campaign says

Four family members of a Republican running for governor in Illinois were killed in a Montana helicopter crash, his campaign said Thursday.

NW Montana Outdoors: Big game hunting forecast, giant Gus, Glacier Park peak

Our quarterly Outdoors Magazine visits a 154-foot Larch, encounters a ruffed grouse, and explores a coveted campsite.

Ryan Hunter wants to make Kalispell a more walkable city

To Ryan Hunter, a walkable city is a vibrant city.

How a sock hop will save Whitefish’s Depot, again

In 1990, Stumptown Historical Society purchased the Whitefish Depot for $1 from BNSF Railway. More than three decades later, cries of “Save the Depot,” can once again be heard across town.

Warren Miller’s ‘SNO-CIETY’ showing in Whitefish

Featuring all-new, original segments with Olympians, urban riders and local legends, the 76th Warren Miller film, "SNO-CIETY", is coming soon to Flathead Valley.

College center hosts free events — Shakespeare’s ‘Richard III’ and a PechaKucha presentation

The Wachholz College Center will host a free performance of Shakespeare’s “Richard III” on Nov. 11 and a PechaKucha night Nov. 20.

Flathead Valley Community Band Fall Fantasy concerts planned

The Flathead Valley Community Band presents two Fall Fantasy concerts in Whitefish and Kalispell Oct. 29 and Nov. 12.

Law roundup: Judgy teens threaten to beat up woman

Two teens in a white pickup reportedly pulled up next to a woman, yelling at her and threatening to get out and, “beat her up ’cause she looks crazy." She requested officers to do extra patrols in the area where she lived.

Author and filmmaker Ron Ford comes to Superior

Just in time for Halloween, the Mineral County Library will host a special guest who knows a thing or two about giving audiences goosebumps.

Defending free speech is everyone’s duty

As Americans and Montanans, our defining value is our freedom. One of our most important freedoms is our ability to make up our own minds about what we think and how we feel and the right to express those opinions openly.

The rule of law

If you want the people to respect their government, the government needs to respect the people.

Bobcats unanimous pick for Big Sky women's hoops

FARMINGTON, Utah — After a 30-win campaign a season ago, the Bobcats begin their title defense as preseason favorites of both the Coaches’ Poll and Media Poll leading up to the 2025-26 Women’s Basketball season, the conference office announced Wednesday.

Finding his lane

College dreams lead Knopik to top of AA rushing ranks

They say home is where the heart is, and Asher Knopik’s heart found a home with the Glacier Wolfpack as a leader on both offense and defense.

Appreciating the buzz out of Hornetville

I’m going to miss these guys.

St. Olaf Orchestra brings music to Kalispell on Oct. 23

The St. Olaf Orchestra, conducted by Chung Park, will perform at the Wachholz College Center at Flathead Valley Community College on Thursday, October 23 at 7 p.m. during their 2025 fall tour.

Montana public health agency warns of impending end to federal food assistance

Montanans who use SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, may not receive the benefit in November.

AA Football: Plenty at stake for Braves, Pack

Week nine is here and Glacier and Flathead have everything to play for.

Gypsy Theatre Guild to perform ‘Barrymore’ in Kalispell

Gypsy Theatre Guild presents “Barrymore,” a two-person play by William Luce, Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9.

Legals for October, 23 2025

Suspenseful thriller 'Wait until dark' on stage in Whitefish

The Whitefish Theatre Company is thrilled to present “Wait Until Dark” by Frederick Knott as the first Main Stage theatre production of their season.

Letters to the editor Oct. 23

Letters to the editor Oct. 23

Griz men: No. 1 in both Big Sky polls

FARMINGTON, Utah — The Montana Grizzlies will begin their Big Sky Conference men’s basketball title defense with high expectations, as they’ve been voted preseason favorites by both the league’s coaches and media.

Irene Loveless, 96

On Sept. 29, 2025, Irene Loveless, 96, went home to be with Jesus, passing peacefully at the Libby Care Center.

Glacier volleyball tips Big Sky in 5

MISSOULA — Allie Krueger had 17 kills, Grace Lingle added 13 and Glacier knocked off Missoula Big Sky in five sets in a Western AA volleyball match played Tuesday night.

Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Series: Kisa Davison

Kalispell mayoral candidate Kisa Davison sits down with reporter Taylor Inman of the Daily Inter Lake to share her vision for the city’s future — from housing affordability and public safety to downtown redevelopment and community connection.

Kalispell Police investigating string of shattered windows

Authorities are investigating reports of vandals breaking the windows of cars and buildings with ball bearing-like objects in Kalispell early Tuesday morning.

Great Fish fundraiser nets $8.1 million for local nonprofits

Whitefish Community Foundation awarded $8.1 million to 85 Flathead Valley nonprofit organizations during the Great Fish Awards Ceremony Tuesday evening.

Bozeman Health and Billings Clinic joining forces

Three years after Billings Clinic cut the ribbon on its facility in west Bozeman, the health system announced with Bozeman Health on Thursday that the two plan to collaborate on expanded services in the area.

Ranchers oppose Trump's plan to import more Argentine beef

President Donald Trump 's plan to cut record beef prices by importing more meat from Argentina is running into heated opposition from U.S. ranchers who are enjoying some rare profitable years and skepticism from experts who say the president's move probably wouldn't lead to cheaper prices at grocery stores.

Keeping Score: Bulldogs bite back

In this episode of Keeping Score, host Luke Schmit of the Daily Inter Lake breaks down the intense, physical match that sent Whitefish to the next round and features postgame reactions from Jonson, teammates Wyatt Carlson, Jack Oehlerich, and Gavin Sibson, plus head coach Eric Sawtelle.

BNSF Railway fights Libby asbestos case in federal appeal

A panel of federal judges on Tuesday appeared skeptical of arguments from lawyers for two deceased plaintiffs that railroad giant BNSF Railway is liable for past asbestos contamination at its rail yard in Libby.

Kisa Davison plans to draw on business experience as mayor

Kisa Davison believes it is time for a new type of leadership in Kalispell.

Girls soccer: Bruins snap Pack's streak

Glacier falls 2-1 in OT in AA playoffs

A season of resilience and growth came to a heartbreaking end for the Glacier Wolfpack girls' soccer team on Tuesday, as Helena Capital escaped with a 2-1 overtime victory in the Class AA playoff matchup at Legends Stadium.

Volleyball: Polson tips Whitefish in 5

WHITEFISH — Whitefish battled back from two sets down to force a fifth set Tuesday, before Polson pulled out the Northwest A volleyball win 25-17, 25-15, 15-25, 16-25, 15-7.

Kalispell City Council 2025 municipal election guide

Ahead of Kalispell's Nov. 4 municipal election, the Daily Inter Lake sent questionnaires to City Council candidates running in contested races. Candidates were instructed to keep their answers to each of the questions to under 150 words. Answers were lightly editing for brevity, clarity, Associated Press style and grammar.

James 'Jim' A. Hanson Jr., 90

On Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, Jimmie Hanson, 90, passed away at Logan Health Medical Center from injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Whitefish.

Legals for October, 22 2025

Northwest Montana History Museum takes ownership of Central School building

Kalispell City Council on Monday passed ownership of the Central School building to the Northwest Montana History Museum.

Law roundup: Vehicle attacked with a bottle in Kalispell

A driver and a passenger allegedly attacked someone’s vehicle with a bottle. No damages or injuries were reported.

John Heller, 91

John Heller, 91, was born on Aug. 5, 1934, and passed away peacefully in his home on Oct. 17, 2025, with his beloved wife by his side.

Business leaders see potential for manufacturing hub in Flathead Valley

The Flathead Valley has the potential to become a global manufacturing hub, business officials said Tuesday at a Kalispell Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

Big Sky Now: Montana survives, Idaho slips, and Big Sky rivals clash in Week 9

Montana survives a scare from Sacred Heart, Idaho’s losing streak deepens, and Eastern Washington continues its climb with a massive upset win.

Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Series: Sid Daoud

Kalispell City Council member Sid Daoud joins Taylor Inman of the Daily Inter Lake for a one-on-one interview ahead of the 2025 mayoral election.

Driver in 2023 North Kalispell police chase given four-year sentence

A Trout Creek man who launched his pickup truck off a mound in the middle of a Kalispell roundabout in 2023 was later sentenced to the Montana Department of Corrections.

Griz QB Ah Yat honored on offense by Big Sky

The awards and helmet stickers are starting to stack up for Montana quarterback Keali’i Ah Yat, who was announced as the Big Sky Conference Offensive Player of the Week on Monday.

Kalispell mayoral candidate Sid Daoud embraces 'the will of the people'

Sid Daoud says that when local government isn’t executing the will of the people, its elected officials aren’t doing their job.

Conversations foster community engagement

On Friday, Oct. 10, the Flathead Warming Center joined 75 other faith-based shelters across the nation in observing World Homeless Day through a unique initiative: Conversations on a Bench.

Letters to the editor Oct. 21

Letters to the editor Oct. 21

Man faces felony charge for allegedly sending threatening texts

A Kalispell man is facing multiple charges in Flathead County District Court for allegedly sending threatening text messages after a dustup in a downtown bar last month.

Law roundup: Not woman’s lucky day

A pack of Lucky Strike cigarettes sitting on the windshield of a woman’s car was suspicious enough for her to call Whitefish Police.

Flathead County Planning Board split on amendment to allow indoor marijuana growth in business zones

Marijuana business owners want to cultivate their product in business zones, where dispensing is permitted, but the Flathead County Planning Board was mixed on the proposal.

Letters to the editor Oct. 21

Letters to the editor Oct. 21

Legals for October, 21 2025

Kalispell Public Schools plans to sell auxiliary building

Kalispell Public Schools will put its Auxiliary Services Building, located at 514 E. Washington St., on the market.

Alabama pilot and two daughters die after plane goes down in Bob Marshall Wilderness

An Alabama pilot and his two daughters died in a Friday evening plane crash in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.

Montana Land Board adds 53K acres to conservation easement

State officials voted 4-1 to seal about 53,000 acres of land in the Cabinet Mountains under the terms of a perpetual conservation easement during a Montana Land Board meeting Monday.

Legals for October, 20 2025

A journey to sobriety leads to a lifetime of helping others

Recovering from a drug addiction isn’t a question of willpower.

Letters to the editor Oct. 20

Letters to the editor Oct. 20

Kalispell poised to transfer Central School to Northwest Montana History Museum

Kalispell City Council on Monday will decide whether to hand over the Central School building to the Northwest Montana History Museum.

Whitefish City Council discusses options for resort tax revenue

Whitefish City Council discussed a variety of options for disbursing revenue from the city’s resort tax at a work session last week.

Terry Reynolds, 63

Terry Reynolds, 63, passed away peacefully on Sept. 21, 2025, in Soldotna, Alaska.

Land Board to cast final vote on 53,000-acre conservation easement

About 53,000 acres of forestland in Lincoln and Flathead counties could soon receive permanent protection as a state conservation easement.

Joshua Allan Clevenger, 41

"With deep sadness our family announces the passing of Josh Clevenger, 41, from an automobile accident in Kalispell on Sept. 27, 2025."

Ted Werner, 74

Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and faithful servant of the Lord, Ted Werner, returned to his heavenly father on Oct. 10, 2025, likely after first making the angels laugh and then helping them reorganize the celestial tool shed.

Finding community in a time of isolation

If Robert Putnam was worried enough to write a book about it 25 years ago, he’s even more so now.

Stillwater Christian wins MCAA soccer title, volleyball is 2nd

Stillwater Christian soccer claimed the MCAA state championship with a victory over Billings Christian.

Barbara 'Barbi' H. Webber

"On Oct. 3, 2025, my girlfriend, wife, and best friend Barbara "Barbi" H. Webber, 65, passed away peacefully at home with all her children and grandchildren at her side."

Ah Yat, Wortham go big for Griz

QB throws for 5 TDs against Sacred Heart

MISSOULA — Keali’i Ah Yat put together his best performance wearing the Maroon and Silver, and Montana defeated non-conference opponent Sacred Heart at Washington-Grizzly Stadium on Saturday.

Jean Vogt, 90

Jean Vogt, 90, passed away Oct. 10, 2025, in Kalispell.

Eagle-eyed volunteers track migratory raptors in Jewel Basin

For the past 18 autumns, Dan Casey has made weekly pilgrimages to the same spot on a ridgeline high above the Jewel Basin. On an average visit, he might spend upwards of six hours nestled in the krummholz and bear grass, recording the age and species of each raptor that flies by, bound for warmer overwintering grounds in the southern United States or Central America.

A Soccer: C-Falls boys move to semifinals

COLUMBIA FALLS — Brady Bell and Jack Harris scored as Columbia Falls defeated Lone Peak 2-0 in the State A boys soccer quarterfinals Saturday at Flip Darling Memorial Field.

Letters to the editor Oct. 19

Letters to the editor Oct. 19

Behind locked doors: Dangerous working conditions, flooding sewage water, power failures

For almost two decades, the Flathead County Detention Center has dealt with overcrowding, unsafe working conditions and limited space for inmates with mental health needs.

Legals for October, 19 2025

Drew Morgan, 25

Drew Edward Morgan, 25, went to be with Jesus on Sunday, Oct. 12, 2025.

Filmmaker uses western Montana as backdrop for new movie

Filming has taken place in Western Montana for a new short film backed by the prestigious Montana Big Sky Film Grant, bringing a 20-person crew primarily based in Missoula to shoot a heartfelt road trip drama from Sept. 23–26.

David Perzentka, 63

David "Radar" Wayne Perzentka, 63, was born on July 27, 1962, in Kalispell.

Spiritual school aims to help people live better lives

When Carolyn Rutherford began teaching in 1996, she wanted to help people live better lives, in touch with themselves physically, spiritually and mentally.

The Mission Valley's invasive chorus of American Bullfrogs

In the dark of night, a kayak glides along the shoreline. Headlamps cut through the darkness and reflect their beams off two emerald-green eyes of an American Bullfrog. As the light freezes the frog in place, the Montana Conservation Corps crew draws their spears. A quick thrust pierces the frog’s head. This practice, known as frog gigging, is the most common hunting approach for the MCC fellows, who are the manpower of the Invasive Bullfrog Project.

Flathead County's aging jail doesn’t serve today’s needs

The stench of sewage can linger for days in the detectives’ offices.

A Soccer: Wildkats win OT thriller with BC Rams

COLUMBIA FALLS — Onnikka Lawrence and Tatiana Raymond scored in extra time as Columbia Falls rallied after trailing twice to down Billings Central 5-4 in the State A girls soccer quarterfinals at Flip Darling Memorial Field Saturday.

Patricia Marcum, 72

Patricia Lynn Marcum, 72, of Kent, Washington, passed away Oct. 1, 2025, at her home.

PHOTOS: Ah Yat accounts for 6 TDs as Griz overpower Sacred Heart, 43-21

Photos from the Montana Grizzlies 43-21 win over the Sacred Heart Pioneers at Washington-Grizzly Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18.

Headlines: Vandalism arrest, Glacier's Sun Road closes, ski resort enhances winter operations

Vandalism suspect taken into custody, snow closes part of the Sun Road in Glacier and cell service, snowmaking to get boost at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

Essential infrastructure under threat

As the federal government shutdown continues, concern across Montana is building. This shutdown means many government offices and services are closed, and more than 20,000 federal and military employees in Montana will soon be missing a paycheck

Montana's wolf management strategy caught in legal tug-of-war

Two weeks after the Outdoor Heritage Coalition and a pair of Republican lawmakers sued the state for doing too little to reduce Montana’s wolf population, a coalition of conservation groups on Wednesday made the opposite argument before a different judge.

Evidence suggests Glacier Park may have been attached to Australia at one point

The rocks in Glacier’s mountains are absolutely fantastic most would agree. They reveal ancient seabeds and rivers and volcanic activity from billions of years ago, noted geologist Kurt Constenius, a Whitefish native and geologist with the University of Arizona.

Ross scores 3 TDs, C-Falls routs Polson

COLUMBIA FALLS — Tripp Ross was a hard guy to bring down Friday, accounting for 212 yards and three touchdowns in Columbia Falls 46-13 victory over Polson on Friday evening.

Football roundup: Whitefish, Bigfork, Eureka win big

LIBBY — Luke Dalen ran for four touchdowns, all while Whitefish built a 27-0 halftime lead, and threw for two more as the Bulldogs claimed 49-21 win over Libby in Northwest A football Friday.

PHOTOS: Wildcats cruise past Polson, 46-13

Photos from the Columbia Falls Wildcats 46-13 win over the Polson Pirates at Satterthwaite Field on Friday, Oct. 17.

Delaneys run Polson girls to Western A Classic title

Pack girls run unbeaten streak to 10

A final regular-season road trip went swimmingly for the Glacier girls soccer squad, who defeated Helena High Thursday and Butte Friday, both by shutout.

Soccer: Pack boys win twice, run record to 11-2-1

BUTTE — Kyler Hardman and Nash Lisowski had a goal and an assist each as Glacier powered past Butte 6-0 Friday in Western AA boys soccer.

Prime wildlife habitat on Big Mountain permanently protected

A critical 140-acre parcel on the flank of Big Mountain is now permanently protected due to a dedicated collaboration between Flathead Land Trust, the Heart of the Rockies Initiative and local landowners.

Glacier flies past Flathead, 56-0

The Wolfpack didn’t fall into the Braves’ trap.

Carpenter, Krueger rule as Pack bounces back on Flathead

Flathead figured to keep some momentum Thursday, hosting Crosstown rival Glacier in a key Western AA volleyball match. The Wolfpack came in and took it away.

Poster Player of the Week: Makenna Aldrich of Flathead High

Flathead's Makenna Aldrich recorded a team high of ten kills in the victory over their crosstown rival, the Glacier Wolfpack.

Bigfork Senior Center raising funds for wheelchair ramp

The Bigfork Senior Center is celebrating the opening of its used book and clothing store this weekend, which will help raise money for a wheelchair ramp as part of a larger effort to build out a new facility.

Eureka boys run to Western B/C Invite title

THOMPSON FALLS — Plains’ John Jermyn and Cord Greer finished 1-2, but it was Eureka that won the boys title at the Western B/C Invitational cross country meet held Thursday at Rivers Bend Golf Course.

City of Polson navigates "close-to-the-bone" budget

The City of Polson is not living within its means, due to increases in spending and decreases in revenue. This marks the third consecutive year that the city has faced a budget shortfall.

Talk will explore the 50-year history of ALERT

The 50-year history of the Flathead Valley's ALERT air ambulance is the subject of a presentation Monday, Oct. 20, in Kalispell.

Law roundup: Police investigate case of vanishing pumpkins

Concluding the disappearance of two pumpkins from her front porch was more likely connected to thieves than Cinderella's social life, a homeowner contacted the Kalispell Police Department.

Trustees vote to hand off investigation into former Hot Springs School District employee to law enforcement

The Hot Springs School District Board of Trustees unanimously voted Wednesday to hand over the investigation into a school employee accused of embezzling funds to law enforcement.

Griz football capsule: Sacred Heart

Sacred Heart at No. 4/4 Montana. Saturday, 1 p.m.

Whitefish rebuts allegations of racial profiling in response to federal lawsuit

The city of Whitefish is refuting allegations of negligence and misconduct lodged by a Venezuelan man who was detained by federal immigration officials following a traffic stop earlier this year.

Legals for October, 17 2025

PHOTOS: Wolfpack rolls at crosstown, 56-0

Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack's 56-0 crosstown win over the Flathead Braves at Legends Stadium on Thursday, Oct. 16.

Mineral County deputy sheriffs, detention officers to form a union

Mineral County Sheriff’s Office employees are seeking to form a union nearly a decade after the last one disbanded.

Over 130 kids star in Alpine Theatre Project’s ‘Madagascar, a Musical Adventure JR’

Alpine Theatre Project’s fall youth musical, “Madagascar, a Musical Adventure JR,” brings more than 130 talented young performers from across the Flathead Valley to the Whitefish Performing Arts Center for four performances, Oct. 17–19.

Sighting in: Hunters prep for season at Whitefish Rifle and Pistol Club

Established in 1963, the Whitefish Rifle and Pistol Club (WRPC) has long been a go-to place to safely shoot firearms in the Flathead Valley.

On the upswing: Seniors Thornsberry, O’Dell and Neva at center of Bravettes’ resurgence

Seniors Thornsberry, O’Dell and Neva at center of Bravettes’ resurgence

A variety of things have made the Flathead Bravettes stronger this volleyball season: sophomore hitter Makenna Aldrich, junior setter Anna Bain, a fleet of strong servers. ... And those seniors.

Full Count: A flip-flop at least half of us can understand

Count me unsurprised that the fifth-ranked Montana State Bobcats are ahead of the No. 4 Montana Grizzlies in the first FCS Playoff Selection Committee’s Top 10 that was announced on ESPN2 Wednesday.

Law roundup: Theft part of woman’s Saturday night out

A woman allegedly checked "theft" off her Saturday night to-do list when an employee she “stole quite a bit” and told officers they would be working with their corporate office to provide information for an investigation.

‘A Murder is Announced’ on stage in Bigfork

The Bigfork Community Players bring the Agatha Christie mystery, “A Murder is Announced,” to the stage, starting Oct. 17.

Savor the season with FVCC’s Culinary Institute of Montana

The Culinary Institute of Montana at Flathead Community College invites the public to indulge in exceptional culinary experiences while supporting the next generation of chefs.

A Montanan’s guide to federal and state public record requests

The right to know takes different forms at different levels of government. At the federal level, the Freedom of Information Act gives citizens a way to request government records. In Montana, the right is built directly into the state constitution (the “right to know”) and spelled out in the Montana Public Records Act.

Public can tour new pre-release center in Evergreen

The public is invited to tour a new pre-release center in Evergreen at a pair of upcoming open house events later this month.

Thursday night special for Crosstown football

Crosstown is special, no matter if it is your first time or your 19th.

Suspenseful classic based on hit film comes to the stage in Whitefish

Murder, secret identities, and a switchblade named Geraldine set the stage for one of American theatre’s greatest suspense plays.

Public Works crew to begin leaf pickup in Kalispell

As the weather turns brisk and foliage starts to fall, Kalispell is gearing up to start sweeping leaves next week.

Legals for October, 16 2025

FVCC’s Theatre Department presents 'The Tempest'

The Flathead Valley Community College's Theatre Department presents a tale of revenge, redemption and sorcery in a production of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest.”

Letters to the editor Oct. 16

Letters to the editor Oct. 16

Movie Night at the Museum screens ‘Taxi Driver’

Martin Scorsese’s 1976 neo-noir classic film, “Taxi Driver,” will be shown Oct. 28 at the Northwest Montana History Museum.

Kalispell Planning Commission recommends annexation of potential jail site

The Kalispell Planning Commission on Tuesday voted to recommend to City Council annexation of property that could host a new county jail.

Bigfork girls soccer bests Whitefish in State A play-in

BIGFORK — Paeten Gunlock and Gwenna Lustig scored as Bigfork defeated Whitefish 2-1 in a State A soccer tournament play-in game Tuesday evening.

Thiel & Thiel best at Glacier Invite

Owen and Ada Thiel ran to individual victory while the Glacier girls and Flathead boys took the team titles at the Glacier Invitational cross country meet Wednesday at Rebecca Farm.

Federal judge dismisses young climate activists' lawsuit

A federal judge on Wednesday dismissed a lawsuit from young climate activists seeking to block President Donald Trump's executive orders promoting fossil fuels and discouraging renewable energy.

Snowfall closes Glacier's Sun Road for season

The alpine section of the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park closed for the season on Saturday after a potent winter storm hit the area.

US rejects bid to buy Montana coal for less than a penny per ton

Federal officials have rejected a company's bid to acquire 167 million tons of coal on public lands in Montana for less than a penny per ton.

Flathead boys soccer falls to Missoula Big Sky

Missoula Big Sky scored three goals in the second half to take a 3-1 victory over Flathead Tuesday at Kidsport in Western AA boys soccer.

West Valley property owners seek zoning change in anticipation of future development

In anticipation of Kalispell’s continued growth, West Valley property owners are looking to shape future residential development on several pieces of land by easing agriculture zoning restrictions.

Whitefish soccer defeats Bigfork in first round

Kyler Jonson scored a hat trick, including a pivotal penalty kick in the 25th minute, to lead Whitefish to a 3-1 victory over Bigfork in a Class A boys soccer play-in game on Tuesday afternoon.

Law roundup: 911 caller seeks ‘search and rescue’ to fill empty nest

A woman allegedly called 911 — although she didn’t have an emergency — to request the phone number for “animal search and rescue,” which she was supposed to use to meet someone to pick up/recover her bird.

Robert 'Bob' Nissley, 82

Robert "Bob" Nissley, 82, passed away peacefully on Oct. 10, 2025, at The Springs in Whitefish.

Francis Albert 'Fran' Van Rinsum, 96

Francis Albert "Fran" Van Rinsum, 96, of Somers, passed away peacefully on Oct. 12, 2025.

Kalispell City Council signals support for regional disaster plan

Kalispell City Council on Monday appeared in favor of adopting a regional hazard mitigation plan that would retain the municipality’s eligibility for federal disaster aid.

Marvin Paul Stocker, 63

Marvin Paul Stocker, 63, went to be with the Lord, Sept. 27, 2025.

Legals for October, 15 2025

Alta (Borup) Williams, 81

Alta Marie (Borup) Williams, 81, was raised in Eureka later splitting her time between Trego and Kalispell.

Joanne 'Jo' Mahoney, 87

Joanne "Jo" Marlene (Koslucher) Mahoney, 87, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025.

Big Sky Now: Week 7 shake-up with Montana's comeback and Idaho's upset

Montana rallies in a dramatic homecoming comeback, Idaho suffers a shocking home loss, and Northern Colorado stuns the Big Sky with a historic upset.

Law roundup: Why did the mattress cross the road?

A mattress partially in the road reportedly posed a traffic hazard.

Grizzlies’ Lawler shares Big Sky defensive honors

Montana cornerback Kenzel Lawler, whose interception return for a touchdown started the Grizzlies’ 28-9 comeback win over Cal Poly Saturday, was named co-defensive player of the week by the Big Sky Conference Monday.

Let’s get to restoration and halt the roadless rodeo

Grounded in common sense, the Roadless Rule that the Trump administration wants to eliminate has not been controversial for 24 years.

Letters to the editor Oct. 14

Letters to the editor Oct. 14

Donald J. Buck, 84

Donald J. Buck, 84, was born in Kalispell to Robert and Josephine (Strack) Buck on July 17, 1941.

Shirley Jean Brenneman, 90

Shirley Jean (Oesch) Brenneman, 90, was born on June 29, 1935, to Harold and Mary (Lapp) Oesch at their home in Creston.

Public invited to weigh in on proposal to annex land into Kalispell for new county jail

The Kalispell Planning Commission is inviting the public to weigh in on a proposal to annex into the city property for the potential new county jail in South Kalispell.

Legals for October, 14 2025

Man accused of threatening a judge back in jail

Authorities are holding Jeremy Allen Higgins, 47, on $100,000 bail after prosecutors sought to revoke his release on his own recognizance. Higgins repeatedly violated an order of protection issued by the Kalispell Municipal Court, according to a petition filed in Flathead County District Court in late September.

Keeping Score: Columbia Falls stuns Whitefish in Cat-Dog comeback

Columbia Falls pulled off one of the most thrilling comebacks in Cat-Dog rivalry history. We recap the stunning finish with postgame reactions from head coach Kelly Houle, quarterback Banyan Johnston, and wide receiver Easton Brooks.

Headlines: A loyal dog's journey, accessibility at Flathead Lake, and library fundraiser a success

Wayfarers new accessibility project, lost pup thrives in new home and book sale generates $17,000 for Flathead County Library.

Living hostages and Palestinian prisoners are released as part of ceasefire in Gaza

All 20 remaining living hostages held in Gaza and scores of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel walked free Monday as part of a ceasefire pausing two years of war that decimated the Gaza Strip and killed tens of thousands of Palestinians.

Births

Births

Kalispell City Council to review regional hazard mitigation plan

Kalispell City Council will consider Monday a regional hazard mitigation plan to retain disaster aid eligibility.

Letters to the editor Oct. 13

Letters to the editor Oct. 13

Legals for October, 13 2025

Randy Michael Deebel, 75

Randy Michael Deebel, 75, passed away Aug. 30, 2025, succumbing to an aggressive bladder cancer.

Woman charged with felony for allegedly throwing menu board, making threats

A resident of a Kalispell group home is facing a felony intimidation charge after allegedly wounding another person in the building late last month.

Author recounts deadly shootout that rocked Eureka

Longtime Lincoln County resident Gary Montgomery, author of the recently published “The Saga of Clyde Rector and Mike Ren,” remembered the town breaking into two camps after the gunfight.

Letters to the editor Oct. 12

Letters to the editor Oct. 12

Rushing game powers Bobcats past Bengals

BOZEMAN — Adam Jones ran for 173 yards and the Montana State Bobcats totaled 384 rush yards as a team in a 48-14 victory over Idaho State in Big Sky Football Saturday at Bobcat Stadium.

Hickey, Schmit power Bigfork past Polson

POLSON — Treker Hickey scored two touchdowns, Cole Schmit threw a touchdown pass and the Bigfork Vikings held off Polson 22-19 in a key Northwest A football game Friday night.

Jason Roscoe Clark, 39

Jason Roscoe Clark, 39, passed away on Sept. 16, 2025, due to health complications.

Law roundup: Shopping spree concerns customer

Someone allegedly thought it was odd and unusual for a large group of mostly men to purchase an abundance of children’s clothes and shoes, as no children were with them.

Flathead Pizza continues serving up slices to West Kalispell

Cassie Heitz and Seth Axelse acquired the pizza shop after the death of Angela Fisher, who bought the shop from her parents in 1983.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Happenings related to business in the Flathead Valley

Joanne 'Jo' Mahoney, 87

Joanne "Jo" Marlene (Koslucher) Mahoney, 87, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025.

Mary Elizabeth Bond, 85

Mary Elizabeth Bond, 85, peacefully passed on to her heavenly home on Sept. 15, 2025, in Richland, Washington.

Montana is on the correct track for Medicaid reform

The Treasure State is taking important steps to help control the exploding costs of Medicaid while providing critical care to the neediest.

The last best hope for mankind?

The Federal Circuit Court has ruled that many of the president’s tariffs were imposed illegally, and also that the president, unsurprisingly, exceeded his constitutional authority by unilaterally imposing what amounts to the largest indirect tax on consumers in memory, all without involving Congress.

Gwen Nelson, 89

On Oct. 7, 2025, Gwen Ida Nelson, 89, passed away.

Seminar aims to help older adults protect themselves from scams

The program will cover the latest scams — from AI-generated phone calls and text phishing to cryptocurrency schemes and investment tricks — and provide practical, easy-to-remember steps to safeguard personal information and finances.

Warren 'Red' Gardner, 86

Warren "Red" Gardner, 86, passed away Oct. 4, 2025, at his home with his daughters at his side.

One wheel, many miles: Man unicycles portion of the Continental Divide Trail

Jamey Mossengren, a Minnesota native, completed his journey on the Continental Divide Trail this year by hiking and unicycling sections of the approximately 3,100-mile-long trail from New Mexico to Montana.

Flathead County Search and Rescue celebrates 75 years and countless missions

In 1947, then Flathead County Sheriff Dick Walsh gathered a group of ragtag volunteers and created the Flathead Rescue and Life Saving Association.

PHOTOS: Owl Research Institute northern saw-whet owl banding survey

Owl Research Institute scientists held a northern saw-whet owl banding survey at the Flathead Lake Biological Station on Wednesday, Oct. 8. Measurements and other data collected from the licensed research study contribute to worldwide efforts to learn more about the migratory routes, timing and habitat of the northern saw-whet owl.

Legals for October, 12 2025

Discover Kalispell celebrates manufacturing with events

Participants have the opportunity to take part in exclusive facility tours and events hosted by leading local manufacturers and employers.

Coal in a fight against the free market

Will the promise of “clean, beautiful coal” deliver for Montana, or has the Powder River Basin been sold a bag of beans?

No. 14 Carroll knocks off No. 8 Montana Western

Kaden Huot threw for 349 yards and scored six total touchdowns to push No. 14 Caroll College over No. 8 Montana Western 42-34 on Saturday.

Linda (Henderson) DeVoe, 67

Linda DeVoe, 67, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, in Tucson, Arizona, surrounded by the love of her family and community.

Copper and gold clad Griz down Cal Poly

MISSOULA — The Copper-and-Gold Grizzlies are as good at rallies as the Maroon-and-Silver.

Bravettes defeat Capital in five-set thriller

Flathead battled through five sets against Capital, winning 25-23, 16-25, 25-21, 17-25, 15-11 in a Western AA volleyball matchup Saturday.

Leo F. Stoltz, 85

With faith in God’s eternal promise, we share the passing of Leo F. Stoltz, of Kalispell, on Oct. 9, 2025.

Letters to the editor Oct. 12

Letters to the editor Oct. 12

Glacier soccer sweeps Helena Capital

HELENA — Addison Brisendine and Avi Schmautz scored as the Glacier girls defeated Helena Capital 2-1 Friday in AA girls soccer.

PHOTOS: Griz rally in second half for 28-9 win over Cal Poly

Photos from the Montana Grizzlies 28-9 win over the Cal Poly Mustangs at Washington-Grizzly Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 11.

C-Falls scores 19 unanswered points, defeat Whitefish

Banyan Johnston threw three touchdowns in the fourth quarter to rally the Columbia Falls Wildcats to a 19-18 victory over the Whitefish Bulldogs in the annual Cat-Dog game Friday.

Kalispell vandalism suspect taken into custody with less than lethal projectiles

Michael Kraig Anderson, 40, is facing a felony criminal mischief charge and a slew of misdemeanor counts in Flathead County District Court following the Sept. 30 showdown on the 300 block of East California Street.

Soroptimist of Whitefish offers grants to women

Soroptimist of Whitefish is offering cash grants to women who are the primary wage earners for their families and require financial assistance to pursue further education or training.

Motorist accused of driving under the influence with children in the vehicle

Montana Highway Patrol troopers began searching for Enrique Renteria Martinez, 34, after a fellow motorist outfitted with a dash camera reported him allegedly driving recklessly while traveling eastbound on U.S. 2 about 3:18 p.m., Oct. 1.

State reduces deer tags in areas hard hit by disease

Wildlife managers are reducing the number of white-tailed deer that hunters can kill in north-central Montana in response to recent reports of significant numbers of dead deer concentrated near water.

Braves rally past Butte for 1st home win since 2023

The Flathead Braves stared down the Butte Bulldogs, the goal line and the sky and walked away victorious.

Artificial intelligence wants to inhale my Montana book

Recently, my publisher told me that a major technology company involved in the development of artificial intelligence wants to use my book, “Stories from Montana’s Enduring Frontier,” for AI training purposes.

Presley carves up Bengals in Wolfpack win

HELENA — Jackson Presley passed for three touchdowns and ran for another score, and Glacier racked up another impressive Western AA football victory Friday, 35-0 over Helena High at Vigilante Stadium.

PHOTOS: Braves battle back to beat Butte, 23-22

Photos from the Flathead Braves 23-22 win over the Butte Bulldogs at Legends Stadium on Friday, Oct. 10.

Canada's prime minister discussed reviving Keystone XL with Trump

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney raised the prospect of reviving the contentious Keystone XL pipeline project with U.S. President Donald Trump during his White House visit this week, a government official familiar with the matter said Wednesday.

Pentagon will build a training facility for Qatari pilots in Idaho

The U.S. military is moving forward with plans to build a dedicated facility in Idaho to train pilots from Qatar, an important U.S. ally in the Middle East, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Friday.

Oehlerich, Jonson lead Whitefish over Thompson Falls-Plains

THOMPSON FALLS — Jack Oehlerich and Kyler Jonson scored two goals each, and the Whitefish Bulldogs downed Thompson Falls-Plains in North A boys soccer Thursday.

Accused California drug trafficker's run for freedom ends in Roosville

A Californian’s run from the law ended recently at the Canadian border’s Port of Roosville in Lincoln County.

Cell service, snowmaking get boost at Whitefish Mountain Resort

Visitors at Whitefish Mountain Resort should have an easier time sending texts and placing phone calls this winter with the addition of a new cellular tower at the base of the ski slopes.

Poster Player of the Week: Dylan Banzet of Glacier High

This week’s Poster Player of the Week goes to wide receiver Dylan Banzet of the Glacier Wolfpack football team.

Legals for October, 10 2025

Inmate advocates say Montana’s reliance on private prisons comes at a cost

This January, CoreCivic announced a two-year contract with Montana to hold inmates at the Tallahatchie prison, an announcement that followed other contracts with CoreCivic’s Saguaro Correctional Center in Eloy, Ariz. In total, about 600 male inmates — roughly 20 percent of Montana’s adult male prison population — are imprisoned out of state.

Cats, Griz capsules for Oct. 11

Montana State leads the Big Sky and is ninth in the FCS in total defense, allowing 296 yards per game.

Brisendine scores twice, Griz soccer wins 4-0

MISSOULA — Reagan Brisendine scored two goals during a second-half blitz as Montana won its fourth straight soccer match Thursday, 4-0 over Weber State at South Campus Stadium.

New Polson art mural is for the dogs

Spotted dogs, tall dogs, short dogs, fluffy dogs, even cow dogs came to the ribbon cutting at 6:30 p.m. Thursday for “It’s a Dog’s World,” the newest art mural in Polson.

Applications open for chance at a D.C. trip for local students

Flathead Electric Cooperative partners with the Montana Electric Cooperatives’ Association and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association each year to send two to three local students to Washington, D.C. for “Youth Tour.” Applications for 2026 Youth Tour are open through Oct. 31.

Braves bring in Butte; Glacier heads to Helena

The season is winding down, but the intensity is ramping up.

Two Kids Fund grants awarded to support programs for Kalispell and Evergreen students

A $30,000 grant to Kalispell School District’s HEART Program will help provide families in crisis with safe, stable housing, and a $10,000 grant to Kalispell Education Foundation will support mental health resources for students at Glacier and Flathead high schools.

"Big Tony" steals the show at Hoot Owl's Pumpkin Palooza

Hoot Owl co-owner Bonnie Geber joined Hans Orellano and members of his family to determine the exact weight...

David Brotnov, 87

On Oct. 2, 2025, Dave Brotnov, 87, passed away after a short fight with internal cancer.

Resolution in the works for Lookout Pass boundary dispute

A century-old boundary confusion on the Montana-Idaho state line is finally being addressed after simmering for decades thanks to the persistence of a local lawmaker.

Flathead, Glacier runners excel at 7 on 7

HELENA — Glacier’s Lauren Bissen and Owen Thiel were plenty fast at the Capital City 7 on 7 meet Thursday; just a handful of runners were faster.

Law roundup: Rooster’s crow carries the death penalty

Officers followed up on a resident’s complaint about hearing a rooster crowing at the neighbor’s after previously warning him about having roosters on city property.

Republicans vote to roll back Biden-era restrictions on mining and drilling in Montana

Congressional Republicans voted Thursday to roll back restrictions on mining, drilling and other development in three Western states, advancing President Donald Trump's ambitions to expand energy production from public lands.

Snowstorm set to slam Northwest Montana mountains

A major winter storm is expected to impact Glacier National Park and mountain ranges in Northwest Montana this weekend.

Range Riders' Hasty is 2025 Pioneer League All-Star

Jacob Hasty, who helped Range Riders put together one of the better pens in the league, was honored after appearing in 45 games with a 1-1 record and a 1.45 earned-run average. He allowed 33 hits and 27 walks in 43 1-3 innings while striking out 56. He had two saves.

The real cost of cutting legal aid

Dealing with the legal system can be stressful, even for a traffic ticket.

Middle Fork of Flathead dips to record low flow

The Middle Fork of the Flathead River reached a record low flow for Sept. 28 as a drought persists across Northwest Montana, the National Weather Service said in a recent presentation.

Allen, Ah Yat, Bell and Kay: Who did it better?

The first weekend of October, if you extended it backwards to Thursday the 2nd, brought yours truly dangerously close to a football overdose.

Law roundup: Is mysterious woman silent but deadly?

Someone allegedly saw an older woman wearing glasses and black clothing, walking around with a rifle equipped with a silencer on the top of the hill on North Meridian Road.

Hotel proposal in Bigfork to go back before Board of Adjustment

A request for a conditional use permit to operate a three-story hotel in Bigfork is going back before the Board of Adjustment on Oct. 14 after being tabled last year.

Legals for October, 9 2025

Letters to the editor Oct. 9

Letters to the editor Oct. 9

Three solo exhibits come to the Montana Museum of Art and Culture

The University of Montana will offer solo exhibitions by three of the state’s top artists this fall at the Montana Museum of Art and Culture, including the Flathead Valley's Rand Robbin.

Diamond in the Turf

Flathead QB Eli Coopman's arm will take him places

Sports are everything for Eli Coopman.

Renowned pianist joins Glacier Symphony for dramatic opening weekend

Celebrated pianist Alon Goldstein once again joins the Glacier Symphony to perform dramatic works by Ludwig van Beethoven and Gustav Mahler in Emperor & Titan: Mahler 1.

It’s alive! Two nights of Halloween double features at the Wachholz

Frankenstein lurches onto the big screen this Halloween season with back-to-back double features at the Wachholz College Center Oct. 29 and 30.

What's the point?

Try as I might, I cannot make sense of what our government is aiming for in the long run.

Gianforte honors Charlie Kirk at Turning Point rally at MSU

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte and Ohio gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy headlined a Turning Point USA event at Montana State University Tuesday evening, filling in for Turning Point’s founder, Charlie Kirk, just weeks after the charismatic conservative leader’s assassination.

From lone wolf to beloved pack member, Baldone thrives seven months later

People often find comfort and understanding in the eyes of our dogs, but when Baldone gazes, it is something else.

Eva Clarice Peeler, 81

Eva Clarice (Stephens) Peeler, 81, of Salt Lake City was called to Heaven by the angels on Sept. 12, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Columbia Falls' miracle boy doing great with reconstructed heart

If one were to watch Henry Anderson at play, you would never know he’s a miracle child. On this day, he’s playing with anything he can get his hands on, squirming in his mother, Mandy’s lap.

Law roundup: Cat’s out of the bag between neighbors

A man was suspicious that his neighbor had stolen his missing cat and filed an online report with the Kalispell Police Department.

C-Falls boys defeat Whitefish to win North A

Columbia Falls clinched the Northern A conference title with a 2-1 victory over Whitefish on Tuesday evening.

Engine trouble preceded fatal Ferndale Airport plane crash, report says

The pilot killed in the Sept. 19 plane crash at Ferndale Airport was attempting to land when he experienced engine trouble, federal officials say.

Legals for October, 8 2025

The BobFest celebrates wild places and active wilderness stewardship

The BobFest will feature live music, dinner and drinks, wilderness-themed games and activities, plus raffles and auctions to raise funds for the foundation’s stewardship and education programs across the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex.

Book sale generates $17,000 for county library

Thousands of books were sold from Sept. 19-21, raising a total of $17,393. Books are collected throughout the year for the annual sale.

Joanne Breezee, 85

Joanne (Jasken) Breezee, 85, was born on March 2, 1940, on a farm outside of Ogema, Minnesota to Barney Jasken and Corrine (Young) Jasken.

Saints cut Mellott from practice squad

Previous standout Montana State quarterback, Tommy Mellott, was released from the New Orleans Saints on Tuesday afternoon.

Lincoln County OKs replacing aging courthouse boiler

Lincoln County officials approved last week replacing an aging boiler at the courthouse.

Fusion flavors from Kalispell on stage in Hawaii

The Hawaii native and owner of 406 BBQ has gained traction over the past year, with tens of thousands of followers on social media following along for his eccentric meals, Polynesian flavors and passion for barbecue.

Flathead Electric Cooperative performing tree work near West Glacier

Flathead Electric Cooperative will perform tree trimming and other vegetation management work on U.S. 2, Mile Markers 154-174, between West Glacier and Pinnacle during much of October.

Roadwork on U.S. 2 between Rose Crossing and airport paused for the winter

The Montana Department of Transportation and LHC Inc. are pausing work on the U.S. 2 construction project between Rose Crossing and the Glacier Park International Airport for the winter season.

Bigfork Food Bank garden thrives in its second year

The garden at Bigfork Food Bank has brought joy to patrons young and old in its second year, providing them with fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as a sense of self-sufficiency.

Kalispell OKs zoning change to allow for more homebuilding flexibility

Kalispell City Council on Monday adopted a zoning text amendment meant to free up space for homebuilders to maximize space on lots that have grown smaller and more expensive.

Tech's Wilson is Frontier offensive player of week

HELENA — Montana Tech quarterback Jarrett Wilson is the Frontier Conference offensive player of the week, the league announced Monday.

Big Sky Now: Griz rally, Bobcats dominate, and Bengals battle

Montana’s thrilling rally in Pocatello to Montana State’s dominant ground game and Idaho’s push for playoff positioning.

Big Sky honors UM's Wortham, MSU's Dowler, Eiden

FARMINGTON, Utah — Two Bobcats and one Grizzly took home weekly football awards for the Big Sky Conference Monday after leading their teams to victory Saturday.

Insights: Cheers to manufacturing

October is recognized nationally as Manufacturing Month, a time to highlight the makers and producers who fuel local economies.

Health care professions on display at FVCC during Night at the Broussard

The providers scrambled to treat the patient, a health care training mannequin, as part of a 30-minute demonstration Oct. 2 at the Rebecca Chaney Broussard Center for Nursing and Health Science. Dozens of people gathered to watch the scenario aimed at showcasing jobs in health care, from laboratory technician to surgeon.

Rodeo showcases Montana way of life

Recently, cowboys and cowgirls from across the Treasure State gathered in Billings for the Montana Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame dinner.

Law roundup: O brother, where art thou?

Unsuccessfully trying to track down his brother, a man phoned the Kalispell Police Department from Oregon looking for help.

Legals for October, 7 2025

Letters to the editor Oct. 7

Letters to the editor Oct. 7

Company bids less than a penny per ton in biggest US coal sale in over a decade

BILLINGS (AP) — A Navajo tribe-owned company bid $186,000 to lease 167 million tons of coal on federal lands in southeastern Montana on Monday in the biggest U.S. coal sale in more than a decade.

After rejecting higher rates, Kalispell Council to consider adjusted impact fee reports

Council meets Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. in City Hall, 201 First Ave. E.

Whitefish Council discusses change to resort tax relief

Whitefish is examining whether to shift the tax relief that is distributed from the resort tax it collects on certain goods and services purchased in the city.

Legals for October, 6 2025

James Jared Roberts, 45

James Jared "JJ" Roberts was peacefully called home to be with the Lord on Sept. 30, 2025.

Letters to the editor Oct. 6

Letters to the editor Oct. 6

Naturopathic doctor focuses on alternative treatment options

Walking through his south Kalispell clinic, The Natural Path, Paul Raish explains what each machine does for patients.

Births

Births

Law roundup: Man alleges ‘neighbors are through the roof’

A man, who sounded drunk, reportedly called the Kalispell Police Department and said, “The neighbors are through the roof.” When asked to explain ...

Snow closes alpine section of Glacier's Sun Road

The alpine section of Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road closed Saturday at 5 p.m. due to snow and ice at higher elevations, including Logan Pass.

Drink up: Distilleries keep Montana focus while looking beyond the Treasure State

Craft distillers in Northwest Montana still enjoy a steady stream of summertime visitors, but they are getting creative about how to stay on top of the market.

Breweries and distilleries visible examples of manufacturing

Breweries and distilleries are among the most visible examples of manufacturing in Montana today. They source grain, convert it through production, package it, and ship it across the state and beyond.

Tapped in: Cabinet Mountain Brewing Co. still wants to be “Libby’s living room”

Producing 500 to 600 barrels a year in their facility downtown, the two describe Cabinet Mountain as a “boutique destination brewery,” letting the charms of Libby and good beer lure people through the doors.

Distilling up new trends: American Single Malt Whiskey in Montana

Montana’s American single malt scene is no longer a whisper from the high country — it’s part of a broader craft wave where microbreweries and distilleries brew up new trends together. The formal federal recognition of “American Single Malt” in 2025 has only added tailwind, clarifying the style as 100% malted barley, made at one U.S. distillery and aged in oak for at least three years.

Lions rally past Rams in wild Western B battle

EUREKA — Eureka quarterback Rogan Lytle scored two touchdowns 13 seconds part, helping the Lions rally past Missoula Loyola 36-30 in a wild Western B football game Friday night.

Wayfarers accessibility project aims to create new pathways for outdoor recreation

For thousands of Montanans living with disabilities, though, accessing treasured landscapes can be a challenge.

Cats and Kats deliver shutouts on Senior Night

COLUMBIA FALLS — Senior Night was kind to the Cats and Kats Saturday, both of Columbia Falls’ soccer teams scoring shutout wins over Libby.

Bradley John Young, 63

In loving memory of Bradley John Young, March 14, 1962-Sept.19, 2025.

Dan Sanders

Daniel Barr Sanders passed away on Sept. 27, 2025, in Kalispell surrounded by his loving family.

Agriculture and national security sciences lead Montana State’s annual research expenditures

The $288 million in expenditures is an increase of roughly 12% over last year, and more than 1,400 student researchers were supported.

Thank you, President Trump

Well, it’s not often we get to say this — in fact, it may be the first and last time — but thank you, President Donald J. Trump.

PHOTOS: Time well-spent at Thompson chain of lakes

A selection of photos from some time well-spent camping with our 1-year-old puppy Petey at one of our favorite sites in the Thompson chain of lakes on Sunday, Sept. 21.

School enrollment down in Columbia Falls this year

Columbia Falls School District 6 enrollment is lower than it was at the start of last year. The district had 2,161 students total as of Sept. 15.

Community rallies to restore records at Conrad Cemetery after mysterious disappearance

Community members are rallying behind Kalispell’s Conrad Memorial Cemetery, offering their plot deeds to help resurrect stolen burial records.

Blue Devils, Rams grab State A golf crowns

Whitefish girls 2nd, Polson boys 3rd

SIDNEY — The Billings Central boys came close to catching Corvallis as a team Saturday. The Rams’ Colin Jensen chased everyone down.

Bravette spikers go 1-3 in Helena

HELENA — Flathead went 1-3 in the Helena Crossover volleyball tournament Saturday, beating Billings Skyview in three sets behind 12 kills from Makenna Aldrich.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Happenings related to business in the Flathead Valley

World’s largest firms turn to UM business students

The Meet the Firms event was the first career fair opportunity of the academic year for the College of Business. All business students will have another opportunity at the Business Career Expo on October 8, which will bring 25 employers to campus.

Shutdown leaves national parks vulnerable

There are no winners in a government shutdown, and that includes our prized national parks.

Hobby sparks idea for Kalispell cigar store and lounge

Owned by Bill and Rhonda Randall and Tyler Brown, the spot is a place for people to join together over a similar hobby and passion, cigars, while connecting with one another in a social setting.

Glacier goes 1-3 at Crossover volleyball

HELENA — Allie Krueger and Grace Lingle combined for 15 kills as Glacier downed Billings Skyview Saturday, it’s lone win at the Helena Crossover volleyball tournament.

Dowler sets record as Cats surge past Jacks

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — On a spectacularly sunny day outside, lightning struck inside the J. Lawrence Walkup Skydome in Flagstaff on Saturday afternoon.

Joan Louise Matulevich, 87

Joan L. Moore Matulevich, 87, peacefully passed away Sept. 12, 2025, after a full and abundant life.

That trek was for the birds

“The birds are kind of flying right in your face,” Jess Garby of Flathead Audubon said, referring to Jewel Basin Hawk Watch.

Legals for October, 5 2025

Letters to the editor Oct. 5

Letters to the editor Oct. 5

Cheers to manufacturing

Here in Northwest Montana, manufacturing isn’t limited to timber and heavy industry — it includes the breweries and distilleries that turn Montana grain, fruit and other ingredients into products that reflect our state’s character and creativity.

Business Newsmakers

Happenings related to business

Headlines: Border Patrol protesters plead not guilty, trolley fire, and new citizens at Glacier Park

Protesters arrested at border patrol facility plead not guilty, Creston fire destroys three trollies and New Americans celebrate citizenship in Glacier.

Trump is reviving large sales of coal from public lands. Will anyone want it?

U.S. officials in the coming days are set to hold the government's biggest coal sales in more than a decade, offering 600 million tons from publicly owned reserves next to strip mines in Montana and Wyoming.

Alleged gunplay lands Libby man behind bars

A Libby man is behind bars after he allegedly threatened multiple people with a gun at an apartment on Mineral Avenue.

State Supreme Court hears arguments in police filming case

Attorneys argued a Kalispell man’s constitutional free speech rights were violated when he was arrested after filming police officers during a traffic stop.

Reject using American cities as military training grounds

This week, during an address to U.S. military leaders, President Trump made a statement that should concern all of us:

Corvallis, Billings Central lead A golf

SIDNEY — The Corvallis boys and Billings Central girls look strong after the first round of the State A golf tournament at Sidney Country Club. But Polson and Whitefish are sitting right there.

Bigfork dominates Libby on Homecoming

Bigfork football showed its full potential on Friday night, rolling to a 46-9 victory over Libby with an all-around team performance.

A football: Whitefish, C-Falls win big

POLSON — Cole Moses had a night, rushing for 121 yards and three touchdowns as the Whitefish Bulldogs downed Polson 41-6 in Northwest A football Friday.

Suspect in criminal endangerment case facing new drug charge

Prosecutors in August opened a new case against a Ferndale man already awaiting trial in Flathead County District Court on a felony criminal endangerment charge.

Linder, Bruins outlast Braves in OT

Linder's efforts offset a huge game by Flathead quarterback Eli Coopman, who ran for 142 yards and a touchdown and threw two long TD passes on the way to 254 passing yards.

Sentinel boys win AA golf title; Pack fourth

BUTTE — Missoula Sentinel ended the Glacier boys’ run of State AA golf titles, and the Spartans did it convincingly.

Glacier knocks off Sentinel in battle of unbeatens

Another test passed for the Wolfpack with flying colors.

PHOTOS: Glacier improves to 6-0 with 48-14 win over Sentinel

Photos from the Glacier Wolfpack's 48-14 win over the Missoula Sentinel Spartans at Legends Stadium on Friday, Oct. 3.

PHOTOS: Kalispell Fire Department showcases antique fire engines

Members of Kalispell Fire Department and retired firefighter and department historian Alan "Gus" Gustafson gave a hands-on demonstration using the department’s original 1951 PIRSCH fire engine, which proudly served Kalispell until 1992, and a 1925 American LaFrance engine, in Kalispell on Friday, Oct. 3.

Poster Player of the Week: Avi Schmautz of Glacier High

This week’s poster player of the week goes to Avi Schmautz of the girls' soccer team for the Glacier Wolfpack.

Flathead County will host annual flu clinic Oct. 8

With the flu and cold season around the corner, Flathead County will host its annual flu shot clinic in Kalispell on Oct. 8.

Flag Football: Pack, back to back to back to back

HAMILTON — Dating back to midway through the 2023 season, Glacier quarterback Karley Allen has played with three tight cornrows on the right side of her head.

Glacier girls hand Sentinel 1st loss

Gracie Winkler got a hat track and assisted on another goal, and the Glacier Wolfpack knocked off Missoula Sentinel 5-1 in Western AA girls soccer Thursday at the Glacier fields.

Bigfork soccer sweeps Whitefish; C-Falls downs Browning

BIGFORK — Quinn Kerr scored a 17th minute penalty as Bigfork defeated Whitefish 2-1 in high school boys soccer Thursday.

Bravettes sweep: Flathead uses net presence to down Glacier

Makenna Aldrich was a force at the net as the Flathead Bravettes swept crosstown rival Glacier at the Wolf Den Thursday evening in Western AA volleyball.

Glacier, Flathead to meet again in flag football semis

The Wolfpack (10-1) will face Flathead — for a fourth time this season — Thursday at 9 a.m. in the semifinals. The Bravettes (7-4) handled Billings West 27-7 Wednesday afternoon.

Glacier hosts Sentinel in battle of 5-0 teams

Flathead on road to face Capital

Somebody is leaving Legends Stadium Friday with their first loss of the season as Glacier hosts Missoula Sentinel, while Flathead looks for their second win of the season on the road against defending AA champions Helena Capital.

Cold snap expected to end growing season across Western Montana

Local gardeners hoping for a few more tomatoes or zucchinis should plan to cover their crops this weekend, with a cold plunge on the way.

Case dropped against man accused of firing a gun during 2023 confrontation

A Columbia Falls man accused of running a woman off a Trumble Creek Road property in 2023 saw his case dismissed earlier this year.

Legals for October, 3 2025

FVCC holds exhibit for visiting artist

Julie Cron, the creative force behind Stray Jewelry, is known for her powerful, intuitive designs that blend ancient relics with futuristic talismans.

Glacier boys 6 strokes off pace at State AA

BUTTE — After 18 holes at the State AA golf tournament, the Glacier boys find themselves looking up not just at Missoula Sentinel but also Helena Capital.

Big Sky Now: Week 5 shocker as Montana defeats Idaho, Cal Poly upsets Sac State

This week on Big Sky Now, we break down everything from Week 5 of Big Sky Conference football and look ahead to Week 6.

Valley Neighbors challenges new immigration enforcement law

Immigration advocates are challenging the constitutionality of new state law that allows police officers to check an individual’s immigration status during traffic stops, arguing that it violates protections from unreasonable search and seizure.

Glacier Art Museum opens new exhibits highlighting nature, featuring paintings by Carl Brenders and photographs by Danny On

Two new art exhibits, October: Close Encounters: Wildlife Paintings by Carl Brenders and The Lens and Legacy of Danny On: Photographer, Smokejumper and Silviculturist, open at the Glacier Art Museum Oct. 10.

Graceful adjustments

Glacier's Grace Lingle excels at new school, volleyball position

One of the greatest compliments an athlete can receive is having your peers want to play just like you.

Book reading and talk at history museum will touch on the urban-rural divide

Donna Erickson, author of “Rooted at the Edge: Ranching Where the Old West and New West Collide,” will be giving a reading and talk at the Northwest Montana History Museum Oct. 8.

Two Visions … One World joint exhibit on display at Phillips Gallery

Phillips Gallery hosts a joint exhibit, Two Visions … One World, showcasing the work of Flathead Valley artists Lindalee Voss Cleveland and Donna Davis through Nov. 1.

Big Beautiful Bill betrays America’s best

At the heart of American identity lies a solemn promise: that those who serve the nation in uniform will be honored, protected and supported upon their return. But with the recent enactment of the Big Beautiful Bill (BBB), this promise has been forsaken by both the so-called commander-in-chief and those members of Congress who now predictably and blindly follow his orders, legal or otherwise.

Letters to the editor Oct. 2

Letters to the editor Oct. 2

Cawdrey Gallery to feature work of Crow artist Kevin Red Star — Painter brings decades of cultural storytelling through contemporary art

Known for his vibrant depictions of Crow culture and history through contemporary painting techniques, artist Kevin Red Star’s work will be featured at Cawdrey Gallery during Whitefish Gallery Nights Oct. 2.

City’s growth requires a balanced approach

Many of us wish Kalispell wasn’t the fastest-growing micropolitan area in the country, or that managing this growth didn’t require such difficult choices.

Marie Moddrell, 49

The Flathead Valley has lost one of their own. Marie Moddrell, 49, passed on Sept 19, 2025.

Law roundup: Woman hears the sounds of an arrest

A woman allegedly heard someone kick or hit her door with something and wanted a Kalispell Police Department officer to drive by and make sure no one was outside. Officers told her the noise came from law enforcement making an arrest.

High-energy, multidisciplined trio Take3 set to perform in Whitefish

Known for fusing classical refinement with pop and rock swagger, Take3 returns to the O’Shaughnessy Center stage Oct. 4.

Legals for October, 2 2025

Big Sky Notes: Explosive Bobcats include Projker

Last Saturday was full of positives for the Montana State Bobcats, who swamped Eastern Washington 57-3 in the Big Sky Conference football opener for both teams.

Audit shows Hot Springs school employee overpaid herself, made personal purchases with district credit card

An audit of a Hot Springs School District employee found they made unauthorized personal purchases using public funds and overpaid themselves using thousands of dollars in grant money.

Glacier boys, girls seek AA golf hardward

The Glacier boys and girls head to the State AA golf tournament knowing little about the course and maybe less about the athletes from the other side of Montana.

Woman charged for attacking men with hammer later received a suspended jail sentence

story

Library plans artist receptions, talks and live paint demonstrations

The Flathead County Library invites the public to view three new art exhibits at its Kalispell, Bigfork and Columbia Falls locations, with live painting demonstrations planned Oct. 9 in Kalispell and Oct. 18 in Columbia Falls.

Shutdown to have ‘devastating consequences,’ Montana nurses say

The Montana Nurses Association said the failure to extend subsidies through the Affordable Care Act and protect funding for Medicaid in the federal shutdown will have “devastating consequences” for families and communities in the state.

Glacier Park remains open despite federal shutdown

Public land managers are bracing for impact as a Congressional stalemate forces mass furloughs across federal agencies.

Full Count: Fairways and greens for the Green and Gold

Some 2,200 miles separate Asheville, N.C., from Whitefish, which is a lot, but at the end of that journey Scott Minton found two familiar sights: Mountains and impressive golf courses.

Protesters arrested at Whitefish Border Patrol facility plead not guilty

Three protestors arrested in front of the Whitefish Border Patrol Station in September pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor counts of disorderly conduct, criminal trespass and obstructing a peace officer on Tuesday.

Wolfpack girls shut out Missoula Hellgate

Gracie Winkler and Hazel Remley scored as the Glacier Wolfpack defeated Missoula Hellgate 2-0 Tuesday.

Phyllis Galloway, 85

Phyllis Ida Muender Galloway, 85, passed away on Sept. 29, 2025.

Polson bests Bigfork at home

Raegan Howlett had 12 kills and three aces, but Bigfork fell to Polson in four sets Tuesday evening in Northwest A volleyball.

Legals for October, 1 2025

Glacier, Flathead head to Bitterroot for Flag Football finale

Suddenly it is time for the Flag Football Tournament, and though it’s year four for the sport local squads Glacier and Flathead face unknowns in a newly-formatted event.

New shared-use path along Four Mile Drive in Kalispell to open this fall

A new path along Four Mile Drive will open this fall for student athletes, families and nearby residents to enjoy.

Karen Gail Fick, 88

Karen Gail Fick, 88, passed away on Sept. 20, 2025, at Mountain View Health and Rehabilitation Center in Whitefish.

Law roundup: Woman takes issue with standing passengers

A concerned woman called the Kalispell Police Department alleging kids had to stand in a 15-passenger van leaving a school because there weren’t enough seats.