Ellington

Hellgate holds off Wolfpack girls

BUTTE — Glacier’s girls made a run at Missoula Hellgate Thursday, before a late surge carried the Knights to a 44-38 win at the Western AA girls basketball divisional.

Bache powers Butte to Western AA win

Bulldogs face Sentinel in semifinals

BUTTE — Dylan Bache scored 28 points to lead four Butte players in double figures, and the hometown Bulldogs advanced to the semifinals of the Western AA boys basketball divisional with a 65-56 win over Missoula Big Sky Thursday.

Western AA: Bravettes falter late In loss to Big Sky

BUTTE — A strong third quarter and a couple double-doubles weren’t quite enough for the Flathead Bravettes Thursday, in their 52-42 loss to Missoula Big Sky at the Western AA girls basketball divisional.

Montana judge declares 3 laws restricting abortion unconstitutional, including a 20-week limit

HELENA (AP) — Three Montana laws restricting abortion access are unconstitutional, including a ban on abortions beyond 20 weeks of gestation, a state judge said in granting a motion for summary judgment filed by Planned Parenthood of Montana.

PHOTOS: Montana Special Olympics skiers hit the slopes at Whitefish

The Special Olympics Montana Glacier Area Winter Games at Whitefish Mountain Resort on Thursday, Feb. 29.

Braves, Pack drop Western AA openers

BUTTE — Get ready for Crosstown III, and set your alarm.

FWP looking for information on wolf poached near Gardiner

Game wardens with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks are investigating the suspected poaching of a wolf in late January near Gardiner, a spokesperson for the department said Wednesday.

Fire consumes three businesses in Noxon

Three businesses in a rural Sanders County town were destroyed in an early morning fire Tuesday, Feb. 27.

A wildfire scorching the Texas Panhandle has grown to the largest in state history

CANADIAN, Texas (AP) — A wildfire spreading across the Texas Panhandle became the largest in state history Thursday, growing to nearly 1,700 square miles (4,400 square kilometers) of scorched rural ranchlands and destroyed homes.

Flathead High School brings the magic of ‘The Little Prince’ to the stage

Flathead High School Theatre presents the classic tender tale by Antoine de Saint-Exupery, “The Little Prince” at the Blackbox Theatre at Flathead High School.

Law roundup: Man pulled out of dumpster fire

Someone reportedly tried to pull a man, who wasn’t wearing any pants, out of a dumpster on fire.

Wolfpack, Braves look to break through at Western AA

Glacier and Flathead head into Thursday’s Western AA boys basketball divisional in Butte with revenge on the mind.

WTC holds auditions for ‘The Tin Woman’

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for “The Tin Woman” by Sean Grennan, their final Black Curtain production of the 2023-2024 season.

Laws, compassion and common sense

Remember the Biblical story of the judgment of Solomon (I Kings 3:16-28)? That’s the one where two prostitutes, living together, have babies three days apart.

Legislative leaders, business groups file briefs supporting state in Montana climate case

Montana’s Republican legislative leaders and a host of think tanks, business organizations, other Republican-led states filed their briefs with the state Supreme Court during the past two weeks arguing why the court should side with the state in the appeal of the Held v. Montana decision.

Wachholz lineup includes comedian Tom Papa

The Wachholz College Center has an electrifying lineup in March.

Legals for February, 29 2024

Glacier National Park officials seek public input ahead of fire management plan update

Glacier National Park officials are initiating public scoping for an environmental assessment necessary to update the park’s long-term wildfire management plan.

Braves' Sims stands out

3 sports, a 4.0 GPA - Flathead's Gabe Sims just about does it all

Dedication. On the field, in the classroom, and with his teammates. Gabe Sims shows his dedication to growing his craft and building a family-like atmosphere for Flathead.

Man suspected of threatening bar worker with hatchet faces felony charge

A 30-year-old man faces a felony charge in Flathead County District Court after allegedly threatening a bar employee with a hatchet Monday afternoon.

Bravettes, Pack girls hope to spring upsets

The Flathead Bravettes and Glacier Wolfpack didn’t figure to be the bottom two seeds going into the Western AA Divisional that starts Thursday in Butte, but that’s how it worked out.

Letters to the editor Feb. 29

Letters to the editor Feb. 29

Montana expands Medicaid coverage for housing assistance and transition from prison

The federal agency that oversees Montana’s Medicaid program has approved requests from Gov. Greg Gianforte’s administration to cover more services for Montanans with mental illnesses and substance use disorders, part of a multiyear effort to leverage state and federal funds to fill gaps in Montana’s health care system.

Phillips Gallery hosts exhibit and painting demonstration

Phillips Gallery hosts a painting demonstration and opening reception for an exhibit titled, Sculpting In Paint with Missoula-based artist Sheri Nagy on March 1.

McConnell will step down as the Senate Republican leader in November after a record run in the job

WASHINGTON (AP) — Mitch McConnell, the longest-serving Senate leader in history who maintained his power in the face of dramatic convulsions in the Republican Party for almost two decades, will step down from that position in November.

Disco skate nights on Whitefish Lake bring community together

When Gabriel Layton looks out across the ice at Whitefish’s City Beach, he sees the realization of his vision to bring a little slice of joy to the community.

Legals for February, 28 2024

Curtis J. Snyder 96

Curtis J. Snyder, 96, was born Feb. 8, 1928, in Stahl, Missouri, to Reuben and Golda Snyder.

Stabbing suspect expected to enter plea on murder charge

Accused killer Zain Alexander Ray Glass is expected to be arraigned in Flathead County District Court on Thursday after a judge ruled him fit to proceed in late January.

Ahead of ospreys' return, Flathead Audubon raises alarm over bailing twine

Twine used to bind hay bales is incredibly dangerous to ospreys, according to the Flathead Audubon, which is boosting efforts this year to persuade residents to better dispose of the material.

Kalispell City Council still waiting for answers on annulled elections

Kalispell City Council on Monday peppered city staff with questions about next steps following a judge’s decision to annul the elections of two of its members.

Pickled beets great addition to salad

With spring on its way, I look forward to incorporating lighter foods that make the body feel energized.

Columbia Falls bakery and cafe Uptown Hearth returns

“It was said that if your dreams don’t scare you, you didn’t dream big enough. This thing scared me about four million times," said Uptown Hearth’s original owner Terri Feury.

Money awarded for wildfire risk reduction efforts in Kootenai National Forest

The Department of Agriculture is putting $9.8 million toward wildfire crisis mitigation in the Kootenai National Forest through the U.S. Forest Service’s Wildfire Crisis Strategy.

State inmate involved in 2021 shooting sues Lincoln County

Tristan Kirk Assance, 35, filed the suit against the county on Jan. 11 in federal court in Missoula.

Frontier tourneys have Flathead Valley feel

As the Frontier Conference basketball tournaments approach, a question is raised: When’s the last time Aubrie Rademacher of Glacier High (Class of 2020) and Maddy Moy of Flathead (‘23) squared off? Turns out it was less than a week ago.

Kalispell counselor works to dispel stigma around eating disorders

When clients with eating disorders come to counselor Mary McRae, they know the advice she gives is from first-hand experience.

Law roundup: Manager wants to solve cold case

A general manager called the Kalispell Police Department alleging that someone entered the property, graffitied the area and destroyed a pump in the mechanical room, shutting down the heating system. The manager believed it was an ex-employee who had called asking if they were cold.

Man to plead guilty to helping kill 3,600 eagles, other birds and selling feathers prized by tribes

A Washington state man accused of helping kill more than 3,000 birds — including eagles on a Montana Indian reservation — then illegally selling their feathers intends to plead guilty to illegal wildlife trafficking and other criminal charges, court documents show.

Letters to the editor Feb. 27

Letters to the editor Feb. 27

Letters to the editor Feb. 27

Letters to the editor Feb. 27

Consumers bear the cost when government regulates more

The Credit Card Competition Act has emerged as a controversial bill that Congress is expected to take up early this year. Under the guise of increasing competition in the credit card market, this legislation presents some serious threats to small businesses and credit card users.

Patricia Ann Dern, 90

Patricia Ann Dern, 90, passed away peacefully on Feb. 20, 2024, at Brendan House.

Spelling savant: Columbia Falls student wins county bee

Columbia Falls Junior High seventh-grader Lily Aveson is the 2024 Flathead County Spelling Bee champion. The winning word was “bereavement.”

Governor asks court to stop order; plaintiffs say governor using delay tactics

Last month, a district court judge said the Montana Legislature must have a chance to override Gov. Greg Gianforte’s veto of a popular bill that directed marijuana tax revenue to conservation and county roads — but the governor believes the judge is wrong.

EPA wants to delete a portion of Libby Superfund site from Superfund list

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality are seeking public to comment on a proposal to delete Operable Unit 5 (OU5) of the Libby Asbestos Superfund site from the National Priorities List.

Mobile watershed education trailer stolen from Flathead Conservation District

Thieves stole a mobile trailer often used for educational purposes from the Flathead Conservation District over Presidents’ Day weekend.

Warren Drew, 89

Warren Drew, 89, passed peacefully from this life to his eternal home with his Lord and Savior on Feb. 14, 2024.

Legals for February, 27 2024

County Attorney’s Office turns to state for help prosecuting homicide cases

Struggling with a shortage of attorneys, the Flathead County Attorney’s Office received approval last week to draw on the state Department of Justice for help prosecuting a trio of homicide cases.

Law roundup: Man wants to go directly to jail

A man allegedly was hanging out in an alley by the booking door wanting to go to jail. He had no warrants, so he was told to move along.

Forever chemicals detected in Kalispell water, leading to surprise and action

In recent tests, the Environmental Protection Agency detected cancer-linked PFAS contaminants in Kalispell’s drinking water. It’s among the first detections of the chemicals in Montana’s public water supplies, with one well in the city recording contaminants at 330 times current EPA health advisory levels.

Montana Supreme Court rules in favor of major copper mine

Stalled work on a major copper mine proposed in central Montana can proceed after the state's Supreme Court ruled Monday that officials had adequately reviewed the project's environmental effects.

Ex-FBI informant charged with lying about Bidens to remain jailed while he awaits trial, judge rules

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A former FBI informant charged with fabricating a multimillion-dollar bribery scheme involving President Joe Biden's family must remain behind bars while he awaits trial, a judge ruled Monday, reversing an earlier order releasing the man.

Rep. Matt Rosendale files for U.S. House run after brief Senate campaign

Rep. Matt Rosendale filed to run for re-election in his U.S House seat Saturday after suspending a short-lived campaign for Senate earlier this month.

US airman dies after setting himself ablaze outside Israeli Embassy in Israel-Hamas war protest

WASHINGTON (AP) — An active-duty member of the U.S. Air Force has died after he set himself ablaze outside the Israeli Embassy in Washington, D.C., while declaring that he "will no longer be complicit in genocide."

RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel will leave post on March 8 as Trump moves to install new loyalists

NEW YORK (AP) — Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel will leave her post on March 8, having been forced out of the GOP's national leadership as Donald Trump moves toward another presidential nomination and asserts control over the party.

Legals for February, 26 2024

Kalispell City Council to discuss next steps after court order annulling elections

Kalispell City Council is expected to receive legal advice Monday on how best to move forward following a district court decision earlier this month annulling the elections of two of its members.

Law roundup: Man found trespassing unloads burden

An older man with a walker was reportedly found trespassing on a property. When the person told him to leave, he proceeded to defecate in the alley and then moved along.

Determination and compassion — A student leader’s perseverance through pain

As an aspiring neurosurgeon, the 4.0 student is prepared to be immersed in academia for at least the next decade with the end goal of obtaining a medical degree and doctorate.

Whitefish considers resort tax rebate changes for seasonal residents

Since Whitefish’s resort tax was initiated in 1995, at least 25% of it has been allocated to property tax relief. At a work session last week, the City Council had a preliminary discussion about potential changes to the allocation of those funds.

RoboScout Squad codes a state win, ready for world championship

The Kalispell-based RoboScout Squad motors forward to the FIRST Tech Challenge World Championship in Houston after a stellar performance at the state level.

Cupid’s got nothing on Marion

They had me at “Anti-Valentine’s Day” in the event promo. I called my adventure buddy, and we headed to Marion.

Letters to the editor Feb. 25

Letters to the editor Feb. 25

State misses the mark on grizzly delisting

At the heart of the Greater Yellowstone and Northern Continental Divide ecosystems, grizzly bears symbolize the wildness of Montana. Healthy grizzly populations demonstrate healthy ecosystems. Montana has more grizzlies than any other state outside Alaska and we should be proud of that.

Suing over funding for special needs students is a new low

It takes a lot to surprise me anymore when it comes to politics or government. But suing to block funding for special needs kids to get an education that works for them? That’s a new low.

Law roundup: Couple hit in a drive-by pepper spraying at store

Kids in a gray Jeep reportedly drove by a grocery store in a gray Jeep and fired pepper spray on a couple and turned onto East Idaho Street. A man told ...

Montana tax policy shouldn’t favor corporations over workers

Montana families and workers expect our state government to tax people fairly, invest in our safety and future, and give Montanans the opportunity to get ahead in life.

Clay Benkelman, 73

Dr. Clay E. Benkelman, 73, passed away Jan. 23, 2024, at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula.

Donald Eugene 'Bud' Missman, 93

Donald Eugene “Bud” Missman lost his fight for life after 93 years on Feb. 5, 2024, while residing at the Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Legals for February, 25 2024

Civil War reenactor takes students back through history

When the kids arrived in the classroom after recess, Inman separated the group into two — the Confederacy and the Union. He referred to groups when talking about how the battles went throughout the Civil War — who won, who lost and who was leading the charges.

Gary Pennoyer, 81

Gary F. Pennoyer, 81 of Helena, passed away suddenly on Feb. 3, 2024.

Theresa ‘Teri’ Palmer, 68

Born in Butte in May 1955 to James and Julia Winston, the oldest of four children, Teri was ever Butte proud.

George William 'Bill' Hall, 68

George William “Bill” Hall, 68, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2024.

Border security a top issue for candidates, Republicans and Democrats alike

Politicians and candidates from across the political spectrum in Montana are seizing upon the crisis on the southern border in the lead up to the November election.

Hungry Horse's Huckleberry Patch undergoing modernizing remodel

Hungry Horse’s Huckleberry Patch is growing.

Flathead Electric participates in project aimed at improving power grid

The Community-Integrated Distributed Energy Resilience Initiative is a $4 million project led by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and funded by the Department of Energy.

James 'Jim' Greytak, 74

James “Jim” Greytak, 74, was born on Aug. 17, 1949, in Kalispell, to Philip and Rosemary Greytak of Bigfork (formerly of Havre).

Library on right track with branding reboot

A decade ago the county library system envisioned a new future for its services that expanded beyond the traditional offering of books on shelves.

Swank Enterprises honored for work on Wachholz College Center

Swank Enterprises received the “Best Institutional Project” award, which was presented on Jan. 24 at the 2024 MCA Winter Convention in Bozeman. The company served as general contractor on the project.

Lady Griz, Bobcats win Saturday

PORTLAND, Ore. — Dani Bartsch scored 19 points, Carmen Gfeller had 17 points and 12 rebounds and Montana rode a huge first quarter to a 76-65 road win over Portland State in Big Sky Conference women’s basketball Saturday.

Western B girls: Florence knocks out Eureka

Anaconda wins title

PABLO — Kenzy Pickering scored a game-high 17 points to lead Florence past Eureka into Saturday’s consolation final at the Western B girls divisional.

Valkyries vanquish Broncs

Bigfork avenges lone loss, claims Western A

BUTTE — Bigfork might have had a little more trouble than usual with Frenchtown Saturday, in the Western A girls basketball title game. The Valkyries still reign.

Arlee downs Eureka boys for State B berth

PABLO — Arlee used a 13-3 run over the final four minutes to defeat Eureka 65-57 Saturday in the Western B Divisional consolation game, securing a spot in the State B tournament in Billings.

Wildcats qualify for State A

BUTTE — Columbia Falls lost two games by a total of six points at the Western A basketball basketball divisional. The good news is that was good enough to get the Wildcats to State.

Columbia Falls teen is dead in Kentucky; man arrested on murder charge

An 18-year-old Columbia Falls man is dead and a 21-year-old suspect has been arrested, according to NBC News in Kentucky.

Small, nonthreatening balloon intercepted over Utah by NORAD

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A small, nonthreatening balloon spotted flying high over the mountainous Western United States was intercepted by a fighter jet over Utah on Friday, according to the North American Aerospace Defense Command.

Samaritan House receives another $750,000 grant for shelter expansion

Executive Director Chris Krager said the $750,000 grant puts fundraising about halfway to the $16.9 million needed for the project, which will allow the Kalispell shelter to house 85 more people per night.

Federal judge quizzes lawyers in Flathead National Forest plan lawsuit

In the case, conservation groups allege the U.S. Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service are again failing to protect grizzly bears and bull trout by skirting a tried and true way to account for roads.

Western B girls: Anaconda, Missoula Loyola secure state berths

PABLO — Meela Mitchell scored a game-high 25 points, Makena Patrick added 18 and Anaconda defeated Mission 60-49 in a Western B divisional semifinal Friday.

Western A Girls: Vals cruise into title game

BUTTE — Paeten Gunlock couldn’t miss and Dillon couldn’t score, and the combination added up to another lopsided Bigfork Valkyries victory Friday, 61-36 in the semifinals of the Western A Divisional girls basketball tournament.

Western B Boys: Eureka falls in OT

PABLO — River Hurley took over in overtime, scoring all five Anaconda points as the Copperheads defeated Eureka 45-43 in the Western B divisional semifinals Friday.

MSU's Shelby Schweyen wins Big Sky pentathlon

SPOKANE — It was impossible to miss the combination of jubilation and relief etched on the face of Shelby Schweyen as she climbed the podium to accept her gold medal in the pentathlon on Thursday, the first one handed out at the 2024 Big Sky Indoor Track & Field Championships at The Podium.

Wildcats, Browning fall in Western A

BUTTE — Friday’s comeback fell short for the Columbia Falls Wildcats, so they’ll try again Saturday.

White House, tribal leaders hail 'historic' deal to restore salmon runs in Pacific Northwest

The Biden administration, leaders of four Columbia River Basin tribes and the governors of Oregon and Washington celebrated on Friday as they signed papers formally launching a $1 billion plan to help recover depleted salmon populations in the Pacific Northwest.

Native American tribes gain new authority to stop unwanted hydropower projects

Federal regulators have granted Native American tribes more power to block hydropower projects on their land after a flurry of applications were filed to expand renewable energy in the water-scarce U.S. Southwest.

Bravettes stumble in second half on Senior Night

Missoula Hellgate capitalized on a cold shooting second half by Flathead to spoil Senior Night and pick up a 55-38 Western AA girls basketball victory Thursday.

Legals for February, 23 2024

Cummings, Wolfpack boys pull away to beat Sentinel

MISSOULA — Glacier forward Noah Cummings scored 14 points, nine in a fourth-quarter burst that sparked the Wolfpack past Missoula Sentinel 50-39 Thursday, in the final regular-season game for both boys teams.

Firefighters union drumming up support for Kalispell's public safety levy

The Kalispell Firefighters Association, International Association of Fire Fighters Local 547, is holding a Feb. 24 event at Black Rifle Coffee Company at 10 a.m. to drum up support for the city’s proposed public safety levy.

ImagineIF Libraries returns to original Flathead County Libraries name, hires Dugan as new director

The county library system’s board of trustees voted Thursday to drop the ImagineIF Libraries brand and revert back a moniker last used a decade ago.

McElmurry leads Sentinel past Pack girls in fourth

The Glacier Wolfpack had Missoula Sentinel on the ropes Thursday, before Emily McElmurry and the Spartans broke free.

Flathead County purchases property for potential jail

Flathead County will purchase a large piece of property south of Kalispell as a potential location for a future jail.

Glacier projects 40% increase in revenue from campground fees in 2024

With busier campgrounds and a recently implemented fee increase, front country camping is projected to bring approximately $2.4 million into Glacier National Park coffers in 2024 — a 40% increase over last year.

Browning, Bigfork girls win big at Western A

BUTTE — Natalee St. Goddard led a balanced Browning scoring attack with 11 points, and the Lady Indians thumped Hamilton 68-37 in the first round of the Western A Divisional Thursday.

Knights stifle Braves offense

MISSOULA — Zane Gillhouse scored 14 points and teammates Parker Link and Easton Sant added eight apiece as Missoula Hellgate defeated Flathead 67-49 in Western AA boys basketball Thursday.

Montana judge dismisses high-profile child protection case and contempt hearing for Glasgow couple

A highly public child protection case involving a transgender teenager that has stirred up online conservative outrage, created blowback for Republican Gov. Greg Gianforte and sparked legal challenges at the Montana Supreme Court was dismissed on Tuesday.

Eureka boys edge Arlee at Western B

PABLO — Eureka’s Caden Vaughn and Tristan Butts combined for 45 points and fueled a fourth-quarterback comeback that pushed the Lions to a 68-67 win over Arlee Thursday, and into the semifinals of Western B boys basketball divisional.

Boys Hoops: C-Falls wins Western A opener

Browning joins Wildcats in semifinals

BUTTE — Cody Schweikert scored 16 points, including the tie-breaking bucket with 30 seconds left, and Columbia Falls held on to beat Dillon 51-49 at the Western A Divisional boys basketball tournament Thursday morning.

Whitefish ski patrollers file petition to unionize

David Kerner is passionate about his work as a ski patroller at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Clocking in early, making the rounds to prep the slopes each morning, and helping guests have a fun and safe experience are all the parts of a job that keeps him coming back.

FEC says Daines failed to disclose more than $1M during re-election bid in ’20

A spokesperson for Steve Daines called it “a minor bookkeeping issue,” but the Federal Elections Commission found that Montana’s junior senator failed to disclose financial information in excess of $1 million during his last run for Senate re-election in 2020.

High Plains Book Award nominations close March 8

The Billings Public Library Board of Directors established the High Plains Book Awards in 2007 to recognize regional authors and/or literary works that examine and reflect life on the High Plains.

Movie Night at the Museum to show ‘The Elephant Man’

The February feature for Movie Night at the Museum will be “The Elephant Man,” starring Anthony Hopkins and John Hurt.

Saxophonist Joshua Redman to perform at Wachholz

Illustrious jazz saxophonist Joshua Redman and singer Gabrielle Cavassa take center stage at the Wachholz College Center Feb. 28 on the “Where are We” tour.

Tester urges Biden administration to support replacement of unsafe Bigfork bridge

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester last week sent a letter pressing Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg on Bigfork’s historic Bridge Street Bridge, which authorities closed in January after a troubling inspection revealed safety concerns.

WTC presents nail-biting horror play

True life becomes stranger than fiction when an acclaimed romance novelist Paul Sheldon wakes up incapacitated in the secluded home of Annie Wilkes — his “number one fan” — after she rescues him from a wintery car crash.

Films honored at FLIC festival

Winners of the 12th annual Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC) in Polson have been announced in 13 categories with Corey Payette’s “Les Filles du Roi” taking Best Picture for a feature-length film and Best Director.

Letters to the editor Feb. 22

Letters to the editor Feb. 22

Let’s keep our communities stable, safe and healthy

In 2015, when the Legislature expanded Medicaid to cover another 100,000 Montanans, it sought to guarantee that all of us — our families, kids, friends and neighbors — would have access to health care.

Piano was Mike Murray’s first instrument, now he’s returning to it for an upcoming album

The Kalispell native has been a performing musician for more than a decade, racking up big performances. Mike Murray performs on March 1 for the Daily Inter Lake’s Press Play series.

Bat-wielding suspect earns suspended jail sentence

A 57-year-old man accused of taking a wooden bat to his ex-girlfriend in Marion last year received a suspended jail sentence in Flathead County District Court earlier this month.

Legals for February, 22 2024

Law roundup: Search is on for Squiggles the goat

Squiggles the nanny goat went missing in Bigfork. Squiggles is a 2-foot-tall black and white female, about 30 pounds, with coloring that forms a curvy shape on her forehead.

Tunnel Vision

A standout on the court, Tommy Running Rabbit has Griz gridiron goals

The Browning Indians boys basketball team has made quite a run, with nine straight wins and its first Northwest A regular-season title in four years in hand.

Kalispell councilors step down after judge orders election redo

Flathead County District Court Judge Robert Allison ruled Feb. 16 that a clerical error resulting in incorrect ballots going out to some voters in Kalispell could have changed the outcome in two of four city council races held in November.

Winter Speaker Series topics cover Glacier's ancient history and grizzlies

Archeologist Brent Rowley and Glacier National Park Ranger Stephen Blados will present Feb. 26 and March 25, respectively, as part of the Glacier National Park Volunteer Associates Winter Speaker Series.

Play looks inside Abraham Lincoln’s mind ahead of famous speech

Minnesota playwright-actor Chuck Johnson presents “The Night Before Gettysburg” a one-man, three-scene, one-act play in which Lincoln finishes writing the Gettysburg Address.

Whitefish Theatre Co. holds auditions for ‘Silent Sky’

Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for the upcoming Main Stage production of “Silent Sky” — the true story about the women who first mapped the stars by Laura Gunderson.

State health department returns to near ban on transgender birth certificate changes

The Montana state health department has announced its return to a near prohibition on individuals updating the sex on their birth certificates to match their gender identity, reigniting a civil rights feud with transgender residents that was the subject of a prior lawsuit.

Former Montana congressman Denny Rehberg launches bid for Rosendale's House seat

In the already crowded field of Republican candidates, a familiar name has entered the race for Montana’s eastern congressional seat.

Avelo to launch direct flight from Flathead Valley to California wine country

Area oenophiles can catch a direct flight to Northern California’s wine country from Glacier Park International Airport beginning May 1.

James Biden appears for GOP interview as FBI informant's arrest casts new doubt on impeachment

WASHINGTON (AP) — James Biden arrived for a private interview Wednesday on Capitol Hill as part of House Republicans' impeachment inquiry into his brother, President Joe Biden.

Briefs: SCS Cougars win MCAA boys title

The Stillwater Christian Cougars won the Montana Christian Athletic Association boys basketball state tournament over the weekend, with three wins in Great Falls.

Kennedy Moore leads Flathead 3-point barrage

MISSOULA — Flathead’s Kennedy Moore scored 28 points and led a 3-point barrage that carried the Bravettes to a big, 56-49 girls basketball win at Missoula Sentinel Tuesday.

Excellent finale

Kastelitz, Wolfpack cruise in Harkins’ last home game

The Glacier Wolfpack have been looking for that signature boys basketball win this season, and Tuesday they got it: A tightly-defended, crushed-them-on-the-glass 63-40 win over the powerful Missoula Hellgate Knights.

Flathead Warming Center's Roadmaps program provides homeless with one-on-one counseling and encouragement

Although Patty Archambault and her son Josh Erickson once knew the Flathead Warming Center as guests, they return these days as volunteers.

DECA students take the lead in business competition

Emerging business leaders and entrepreneurs from Glacier, Whitefish and Flathead high schools advance to the DECA International Career Development Conference April 27-30 in Anaheim, California.

Law roundup: Disagreement among teenagers revs up

A teen reportedly drove a red truck at another teen, who jumped out of the way, but was hit by the pickup’s side mirror near Flathead High School.

Whitefish library series continues with program on local literary culture

Whitefish Community Library’s Winter Writers Series continues Monday, Feb. 26 at 6 p.m. featuring Montana writer Tami Haaland.

Roundup for Safety awards funds toward six safety projects

Fair-Mont-Egan School, established in 1967, sought support to replace its campus security and emergency communications systems. The school’s intercom and entrance door are both beyond repair.

Raymond Tiller, 89

Raymond Wilbert Tiller, 89, died Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, in Cullman, Alabama.

Missoula Sentinel outlasts Braves in OT

Jordan Griffin’s half court heave at the buzzer did not fall as Missoula Sentinel picked up the road win in overtime at Flathead 59-58, spoiling Senior Night for the Braves Tuesday.

Larsen, Knights overpower Pack girls

MISSOULA — Missoula Hellgate’s Chloe Larsen poured in 23 points Tuesday, leading the Knights over Glacier 48-36 in Western AA girls basketball.

Accused drug smuggler sees felony case dismissed

A 23-year-old accused of smuggling fentanyl into the Flathead County Detention Center last year saw the felony charge filed against her dismissed in January.

Flathead Food Bank holds Mardi Gras gala fundraiser

The fundraising event features a festive New Orleans atmosphere with vibrant decorations, lively music and delicious Cajun-inspired cuisine.

Man suspected of pointing gun at homeless people earns deferred sentence

A man accused of threatening a group of homeless people along Kalispell’s Parkline Trail with a gun last fall earned a deferred sentence in Flathead County District Court earlier this month.

Simulation puts caregivers in Kalispell through realistic scenarios

Nursing home resident Martha has dementia and she is convinced someone is trying to steal her car. She’s veering from a window toward the parking lot, yelling for help. But her caregivers know there’s no one trying to steal her car, if she even has a car at the facility.

FWP taking comments on state outdoor recreation plan

The Statewide Outdoor Recreation Plan is up for renewal this year and officials with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks are encouraging residents to share their ideas and suggestions.

Tickets go on sale for FVCC’s Festival of Flavors spring event

The Flathead Valley Community College Foundation’s Festival of Flavors spring event tickets go on sale March 8 at 9 a.m

Flathead Classic sled dog races this weekend in Olney

The unique event that includes sled races, skijor races and bikejor races runs Feb. 24 and Feb. 24. The event begins at 9 a.m. on both days.

2 adults are charged with murder in the deadly shooting at Kansas City's Super Bowl celebration

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Missouri prosecutors said Tuesday that two men have been charged with murder in last week's shooting that killed one person and injured 22 others after the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl parade.

White House promises 'major sanctions' on Russia in response to Alexei Navalny's death

WASHINGTON (AP) — The White House says it is preparing additional "major sanctions" on Russia in response to opposition leader Alexei Navalny's death in an Arctic penal colony.

Busse brings Helena attorney Raph Graybill on as running mate

Democratic gubernatorial hopeful Ryan Busse has tapped a constitutional attorney known for challenging Montana abortion restrictions and other Republican-backed laws to be his running mate against incumbent Republican Greg Gianforte this November.

Griz losing DC Bradford to NFL's Dolphins

Ronnie Bradford, who guided Montana’s resurgent defense during a run to the Division I Football championship game, is on his way back to the National Football League.

Energy touches all things at all times

Climate change has become a major issue. President Joe Biden’s solution for us is a 50% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030. He is also mandating that we make our electricity production carbon-free by 2035.

Legals for February, 20 2024

Kalispell City Council to prioritize infrastructure projects eligible for state aid

Kalispell City Council is set Tuesday to finalize a priority list of needed infrastructure projects eligible for state dollars as well as consider a request from city staff to seek additional grant money for the U.S. 93 Bypass.

Rheba Bohannon, 84

Rheba Bohannon, 84

Trump and our democracy

As Trump collects delegates to clench the Republican nomination, we must understand his vision for our country. We hear nothing about health care, infrastructure, education, foreign policy, climate or the economy. Instead we hear insults and words of revenge.

Law roundup: Groomer’s ex-client in the doghouse

The owner of a dog grooming business reportedly cashed a legitimate check at a bank drive-thru when the man, and ex-client, who wrote the check and had an earlier confrontation with her, contacted the bank wanting to cancel it “due to not receiving services.” As she pulled away ...

Injured skier rescued from avalanche near Essex

A skier was air-lifted from backcountry terrain near Essex on Saturday after they were seriously injured in a large avalanche set off by their partner from the slopes above.

Strike at the Eiffel Tower closes one of the world's most popular monuments to visitors

Visitors to the Eiffel Tower are being turned away because of a strike over poor financial management at one of the world’s most-visited sites.

Workers at Fort Worth Molson Coors brewery go on strike

About 420 workers at one of the biggest breweries in the United States, Molson Coors’ Fort Worth facility, went on strike starting on Saturday over pay and other benefits.

Jim Hutchinson

James "Jim" Hutchinson, 67, escaped this mortal realm on Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, leaving behind multiple sticks of butter, eggs, cheese, and mayonnaise in the fridge from 2016 that he assured us were still edible.

Letters to the editor Feb. 19

Letters to the editor Feb. 19

Legals for February, 19 2024

Biden admin providing $1.5 billion to GlobalFoundries to make computer chips in New York and Vermont

The Biden administration says that the government would provide $1.5 billion to the computer chip company GlobalFoundries to expand its domestic production in New York and Vermont.

Whitefish aims to join state property improvement loan program

Whitefish is looking to implement a program that would assist businesses and other organizations make improvements to their property through loans.

Presidents Day: From George Washington's modest birthdays to big sales and 3-day weekends

George Washington was uneasy about the idea of commemorating his life. He was the first leader of a new republic — not a tyrant. And yet the nation will once again celebrate the first U.S. president on Monday, 292 years after he was born.

U.S. lawmakers raise concern about failure to compete with China in biotech

U.S. lawmakers are raising alarms about what they see as America's failure to compete with China in biotechnology.

Kalispell mother named Montana Mom of the Year

Tiffany Geer has been recognized as the 2024 Montana Mother of the Year through American Mothers, Inc., a national nonprofit with the goal of valuing mothers through service and education, a testament to her work within her family and her community.

Lion boys rule 7-B

Lady Lions take thrid

ST. IGNATIUS — Caden Vaughn knocked down six 3-pointers and scored 20 points as Eureka held off a second half Thompson Falls comeback 58-51 to win the District 7B boys tournament Saturday.

Virginia 'Ginni' Siblerud 79

Virginia “Ginni” Gaye (Loy) Siblerud passed away on Feb. 7, 2024. She was lovingly surrounded by her family when Jesus called her home.

Spring load limits for county roads set to go into effect

The current weather pattern and lack of moisture are already causing issues with some of the roads creating the need for restrictions earlier than usual, according to the county.

Craig S. Witte, 63

Craig Witte, 63, passed away unexpectedly from natural causes on Jan. 31, 2024.

Letters to the editor Feb. 18

Letters to the editor Feb. 18

Mary Elizabeth Dutter, 82

In the early morning of Feb. 8, 2024, Mary’s earthly body could no longer endure. She was 82. What she lived for, hoped for, and believed in all her life came true … she met her Savior. Through faith in Jesus, Mary entered heaven to dwell in the love of God forever. In that moment Mary met all those she knew and loved that had gone before. Mary will be overjoyed to be reunited with her earthly love Ken in God’s kingdom.

David Burnham, 81

David Perley Burnham passed away suddenly on Feb. 9, 2024, at the Whitefish Hospital after a brief illness. He was 81 years old.

Drew Hubatsek, 72

Drew William Hubatsek, 72, of Woods Bay, passed away Feb. 5, 2024.

James 'Joe' David Gwiazdon, 80

James David Gwiazdon, known to everyone as Joe, age 80, of Columbia Falls, passed away Feb. 9, 2024.

AA Hoops Saturday: Pack boys, Braves, Bravettes fall

HELENA — Merek Mihelish scored a game-high 14 points and teammate Dylan Almquist added 12 as Helena Capital used a strong second half to defeat Glacier in Western AA boys basketball Saturday.

Legals for February, 18 2024

Glacier Park International Airport lands $2.8M federal grant

Glacier Park International Airport has secured $2.8 million in new grant funds to put toward an ongoing campaign to renovate and expand the transit hub.

Law roundup: Loud truck fills man with fiery rage

A man with a fiery temper allegedly threatened to burn down a neighbor’s house because their vehicle was too loud. The neighbor reportedly took a semi ...

Grizzly bears still trapped in their own end zone

Contrary to Dale Jorgenson’s assertions in his Jan. 18 letter to the editor “Grizzly bear population out of control,” we do not have “way too many grizzly bears in this country,” we are not “being over-run with grizzlies,” and we should not delist the grizzlies so we can “start hunting them again to thin out their numbers.”

Entrepreneurs find fortune in gold prospecting equipment

David Bjelland sat transfixed in front of the TV screen, cake in hand, shooing off his relatives as they tried to wish him a happy birthday.

Procedural whoopsies pile up in West Valley

Oops! West Valley School District’s board of trustees has done it again.

Robert 'Bob' Ludwig, 77

Robert "Bob" Ludwig, 77, died on Saturday, Feb. 10, 2024, at home, following an extended illness.

Where have all the doctors gone?

There’s never been enough doctors in rural Wyoming, where I live, but a shortage of obstetricians is now increasing the risks for pregnant women across the state — and the nation.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Ronan Chiefs, Maidens advance

Tonasket's big 4th quarter powers boys

RONAN — Marlo Tonasket’s big fourth quarter pushed Ronan into divisionals Saturday afternoon — he scored all of his 14 points as the Chiefs pulled away to beat Whitefish 52-35 in a Western A boys basketball play-in game.

Lady Griz drill 14 3s, beat Bobcats

MISSOULA — This time there would be no comeback.

Jack Ray McLeod, 77

Jack Ray McLeod, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and mentor passed away peacefully on Jan. 23, 2024 at the age of 77.

Bad Rock Canyon icicle wall becomes frozen canvas

The stretch of U.S. 2 joining Columbia Falls and Hungry Horse is tight with bends in the road as it winds between the Middle Fork of the Flathead River and the canyon wall.

‘It Just Happens Here:’ In a Perfect Storm of Risk Factors, Montanans Grapple with Barriers to Mental Health Care

For the past 40 years, Montana has been one of the most at-risk states for suicide, with the second highest suicide death rate in the nation in 2022 at 32 deaths per 100,000 people. That’s consistently twice the national average of 13 deaths per 100,000 people.

Wolfpack girls offense goes cold against Capital

Helena Capital used a pair of early runs to take control against a shorthanded Glacier team en route to a 47-30 victory in Western AA girls basketball Saturday.

Monica Eisenzimer, 60

It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Monica Rae Eisenzimer, 60.

Moody goes for 29, Griz rout Cats

MISSOULA — Aanen Moody hit five 3-pointers and scored 29 points, and the Montana Grizzlies lit it up from 3-point land to hand Montana State an 88-69 loss Saturday night at Dahlberg Arena.

Record-low snowpacks endure despite midwinter storms

Mid-January and early February storms brought some much-needed snow to the region, but a third of Montana’s basins continued to post record-low snowpacks as of Feb. 7, a situation likely to produce low summer streamflows and uncomfortably dry forests heading into fire season.

Updated: District 7B tournaments

ST. IGNATIUS --- District 7B Boys Tournament

Attorney files for embattled judge's seat in 20th Judicial District

Local attorney Britt Cotter filed last week for the Lake and Sanders counties District Court seat held by embattled Judge Deborah “Kim” Christopher.

State files Supreme Court appeal asking to overturn climate change decision

The State of Montana filed its appeal of a district court judge’s decision in the Held v. Montana case with the Montana Supreme Court this week, arguing that the statute the judge struck down as unconstitutional could not solely be responsible for climate change and so the case never should have been decided in the first place.

Bravettes falter after strong start against Capital

Helena Capital flipped their game against Flathead on its head, holding the Bravettes to just three points in the fourth quarter to pick up a Western AA road victory Friday.

Helena shuts down Wolfpack boys offense

HELENA — Jaxan Lieberg knocked down two 3-pointers and scored 11 points as Helena High defeated Glacier 46-28 in Western AA boys basketball Friday.

Helena rolls over Wolfpack girls

Madi Todorovich scored 14 points and teammate Grace Murgel added 12, including four 3-pointers as Helena High defeated Glacier 60-41 in Western AA girls basketball Friday.

Helena Capital cruises past Braves

HELENA — Kyler Meredith scored all 18 of his points in the first half, teammate Merek Mihelish added 21 and Helena Capital defeated Flathead 90-58 in Western AA boys basketball Friday.

Proposal to replace Columbia Falls ballpark with housing tabled

The youth baseball field on Railroad Street will stay a baseball field, at least until Columbia Falls City Council can find another place for the kids to play ball.

Documentary film recounts 'troll storm' against Whitefish family

An award-nominated documentary about a Whitefish resident who, with support from the community, fought back against hatred, will make its world premiere in Missoula later this month.

Judge orders Trump and his companies to pay $355 million in New York civil fraud case

NEW YORK (AP) — A New York judge ordered Donald Trump and his companies on Friday to pay $355 million, finding they engaged in a yearslong scheme to dupe banks and others with financial statements that inflated his wealth.

2 juveniles charged in mass shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Two juveniles were charged with crimes connected to the mass shooting at the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl rally, authorities said Friday, as the city tries to recover in the aftermath of the violence.

Woman accused of wielding woodworking tool in attack given deferred prosecution agreement

A Flathead County District Court judge dismissed this month an assault case against a woman accused of attacking another woman with a woodworking tool late last spring.

Linda Iverson, 78

Linda Iverson, 78, left this world after a hard-fought battle from a little of this and a lot of that surrounded by her precious family.

Gianforte says statewide sales tax off the table as his property tax task force gears up

Addressing his property tax task force at the group’s first formal meeting Wednesday, Gov. Greg Gianforte had two big messages: Figure out how to bring some permanent tax relief to Montana homeowners — and don’t do it by recommending a statewide sales tax.

Legals for February, 16 2024

Montana State Prison sergeant charged, at least five other officers on leave

A Montana State Prison sergeant faces felony charges for selling and distributing marijuana and psychedelic mushrooms to at least four other prison workers and for money laundering, according to Deer Lodge County District Court records.

Kalispell Planning Commission takes comment on proposed public participation plan

The Kalispell Planning Commission on Tuesday accepted resident input on the city’s proposed public participation plan, which was crafted in response to new requirements established under the Montana Land Use Planning Act.

Maidens, Lady Pirates win; play Saturday

WHITEFISH — Kailynn Marengo hit two 3-pointers and scored 12 points, and the Ronan Maidens built upon a 10-point halftime lead to beat Whitefish 49-37 in a Northwest A girls basketball play-in game Thursday. Ronan (7-12) will play at Polson (10-9) Saturday at 7:30 p.m.; Polson pulled away to beat Libby 39-32 Thursday.

Basketball Brawl II is Saturday at UM

The Montana Grizzlies want to continue a stretch of dominance, and the Lady Griz want to slow one down.

Law roundup: Vape-related trash leaves resident steamed

A local property owner got a little steamed when he came across trash strewn about on his land. He told the Kalispell Police Department that the refuse included “bags of vapes.”

Whitefish, Ronan boys advance to final Northwest A play-in

Whitefish and Ronan got through their Northwest A boys basketball play-in games Thursday; next up is a 1 p.m. battle in Ronan on Saturday.

Kiera Sullivan finds her calling

Wolfpack senior works back from torn ACL

What was supposed to happen was, Kiera Sullivan would keep tackling, shooting and sprinting from the end of her 2022 school year straight through to today.

Troy man admits to tampering with evidence in grizzly killing

A Troy man admitted in federal court Thursday to tampering with evidence in the 2020 fatal shooting of a grizzly on his property.

Speech and debate students secure spots at nationals

Twenty local speech and debate stars shined over the weekend at the 2024 West District national qualifying tournament.

James F. Kazebier, 76

James F. Kazebier (Jimmy) passed away peacefully at his home in Lakeside at the age of 76 after suffering with pulmonary fibrosis.

Rosendale drops Senate bid after 6 days, citing Trump endorsement of opponent

Montana Republican Congressman Matt Rosendale dropped his U.S. Senate bid on Thursday, less than a week after he got into the race only to see former President Donald Trump quickly endorse his opponent.

Montana nuclear base lockdown lifted after suspicious person prompts active shooter report

BILLINGS (AP) — An Air Force nuclear missile base in central Montana was locked down by authorities for about two hours on Thursday after an active shooter report sowed confusion and prompted officials to issue a shelter-in-place advisory for nearby schools.

Shooting after Chiefs Super Bowl parade seemed to stem from dispute among several people, police say

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The mass shooting that unfolded amid throngs of people at the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl celebration appeared to stem from a dispute between several people, authorities said Thursday.

Woman formerly known as Rachel Dolezal ousted by Arizona school district for OnlyFans posts

Rachel Dolezal, the former Spokane NAACP president who garnered national attention when she was outed as a white woman in 2015, lost her job with an Arizona school district after district officials learned of her OnlyFans social media posts.

Dewey skins, slides to Whitefish Whiteout victory

Cutting through the fog like a warm knife in butter, Jacob Dewey claimed the top of the podium in the annual Whitefish Whiteout skimo race Saturday at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

Symphony celebrates 100 years of ‘Rhapsody in Blue’ with pianist Terrence Wilson

Concert will feature ‘Afro-American Symphony’ by William Grant Still

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin’s beloved “Rhapsody in Blue” with Grammy-nominated pianist Terrence Wilson and the Glacier Symphony Orchestra, Feb. 17 at McClaren Hall in the Wachholz College Center.

Montana PBS — ‘11th and Grant’ episode features Luke Dowler

Montana PBS premieres a new episode of “11th and Grant” featuring Kalispell musician Luke Dowler Feb. 15

Federal grand jury indicts man accused of pulling gun on co-worker

A Flathead County District Court judge has dismissed a felony assault case against a man accused of pulling a gun on a co-worker in Kalispell last year following his indictment in federal court.

Changemaker Series' upcoming speakers

Esteemed Changemaker Speakers are set to present at the Wachholz College Center including Kobie Boykins, Lynsey Addario and David Doubilet and Jennifer Hayes.

WTC presents Stephen King’s bestselling thriller ‘Misery’

This nail-biting horror play which was also a hit movie starring James Caan and Kathy Bates, opens with a sneak preview night on Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Assault charge dismissed against woman accused of pulling box cutter on park patron

A woman who allegedly threatened a Kalispell park patron with a box cutter after being refused a cigarette last summer saw her felony case dismissed in December.

Gianforte directs Montana National Guard to begin working with Texas on border security

Gov. Greg Gianforte directed the Montana National Guard to begin coordinating with Texas this week, signaling his intent to aid Gov. Greg Abbott in his efforts along the southern border with Mexico.

Brockman faces a Regier-backed challenger for House District 8

A member of Northwest Montana’s conservative political dynasty is seeking to oust incumbent Rep. Tony Brockman, throwing support behind a young, inexperienced challenger.

Law roundup: Dad in a scramble after taking child in Super Bowl showdown

Someone allegedly thought a “very angry” and intoxicated man carrying a baby while walking in the street, yelling, “shouldn’t be with a child” and called the Kalispell Police Department. He ...

Pearl Jam sets Missoula performance on world tour

Pearl Jam was formed in Seattle in 1990. The band's lineup consists of bassist Jeff Ament, rhythm guitarist Stone Gossard, lead guitarist Mike McCready, lead singer/guitarist Eddie Vedder and drummer Matt Cameron.

Legals for February, 15 2024

Bigfork man accused of erratic driving enters Alford plea

A Bigfork man who allegedly posed as a firefighter while driving recklessly through Lake County in 2020 pleaded guilty to felony criminal endangerment in district court last month.

We can do more to protect public land

In my family there is a wide swath of political views and when you are in the same room as we were for the holidays, the juvenile name calling stops and thoughtful discussions can occur.

Letters to the editor Feb. 15

Letters to the editor Feb. 15

State files Supreme Court brief in appeal of injunction blocking gender-affirming care ban

Attorneys for the Gianforte administration filed their brief Friday in their Supreme Court appeal of a district court judge’s decision last year that blocked the ban on gender-affirming care for Montana children the governor signed into law last spring.

The Book Shelf brings New York Times bestselling author to Kalispell

The Book Shelf in Kalispell presents a conversation with Shelby Van Pelt, the New York Times bestselling author of “Remarkably Bright Creatures,” and Kathy Dunnehoff, author of “The Do-Over,” Feb. 24.

West Valley board calls for ‘redo’ in choosing new superintendent

West Valley School District’s Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting today to redo its vote selecting a new superintendent following a “procedural glitch” at a previous meeting.

Jury finds Craig McCrea guilty of two counts of felony arson

Former firefighter Craig McCrea was found guilty Feb. 8 on two of four counts of arson after a dramatic four-day trial at the Lake County Courthouse.

Acting like a nation

I am reading a history of George Washington and Benjamin Franklin and their role together in the creation of America.

FWP reopens public comment periods for grizzly, wolf management plans

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks announced Tuesday it was reopening public comment periods into early March on the state’s new grizzly and wolf management plans, both of which have drawn scrutiny from animal protection groups and conservationists.

GOP Speaker Johnson says House won't be 'rushed' to approve aid for Ukraine as $95B package stalls

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Speaker Mike Johnson said Wednesday the U.S. House will not feel "rushed" to pass the $95.3 billion foreign aid package for Ukraine, Israel and other allies, signaling a further stall over sending military hardware and munitions Kyiv badly needs to fight Russia.

Judge to consider whether to remove District Attorney Fani Willis from Georgia election case

ATLANTA (AP) — A Georgia judge who is deciding whether to toss Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis off of the state's election interference case against former President Donald Trump has set a hearing for Thursday that is expected to focus on details of Willis' personal relationship with a special prosecutor she hired.

Kenedee Moore floater lifts Pack girls

BUTTE — Kenedee Moore hit a runner at the end of a coast-to-coast drive, beating the buzzer and lifting Glacier over Butte 36-34 in Western AA girls basketball Tuesday.

Butte tops Wolfpack boys with 3-point barrage

BUTTE — The Glacier boys shot their way into a 10-point third-quarter lead Tuesday, before the Butte Bulldogs heated up even more.

First-place Eagles surge past Bravettes

Missoula Big Sky’s Kadynce Couture scored 17 points and the first-place Eagles outscored Flathead 42-16 over the middle two quarters of a 63-43 Western AA girls basketball win Tuesday.

Big Sky tip-in at buzzer beats Braves

Calijah LaRance tipped in a Missoula Big Sky miss at the buzzer Tuesday, allowing the Eagles to escape the Flathead gym with a 54-52 boys basketball win over the Braves.

Whitefish nonprofit hosts veterans for ski retreat

The Marines served in the same squad during a deployment to Afghanistan in 2011.

Girls Hoops: Wildkats, Lady Pirates win big

LIBBY — Taryn Borgen poured in 22 points, Hope McAtee added 17 and Columbla Falls raced out to a 41-18 lead on the way to a 78-43 win over Northwest A foe Libby Tuesday.

Misconduct complaint, motion to disqualify, both filed against Judge Christopher

A judge the Montana Supreme Court removed from one case last month referred to a mom in her courtroom as “you bitch” in a remark to colleagues after a child custody hearing, and she described the grandmother as “poison.”

Share love with chocolate mousse

Love is in the air! A decadent chocolate honey mousse requires only a few ingredients and yields a wonderful dessert that is ready for you this Valentine’s Day.

UM couple brings romance to cheer squad

It takes a certain kind of (crazy?) love to let your spouse fling you 10 feet in the air, trusting he’ll catch you on the way down to Earth.

Stockman Bank looks to acquire Rocky Mountain Bank branches

Stockman Bank plans to acquire three of HTLF Bank’s Rocky Mountain Bank division branches located in Kalispell, Bigfork and Plains.

Donna Lee Mast, 91

Donna Lee Mast, 91, passed away quietly on Sunday morning, Feb. 4, 2024 in her room at The Springs at Whitefish.

Man accused of trying to drive ex off the road sentenced

A man accused of chasing his ex-girlfriend through Columbia Falls last year earned a suspended sentence in Flathead County District Court in January.

Man suspected of burglarizing ex’s home, threatening her with knife pleads guilty

David James Bollman, 28, entered an Alford plea Feb. 13 to a single count of felony criminal endangerment before Judge Amy Eddy.

Janet Stephens, 73

Janet Thompson Stephens died unexpectedly at Spring Creek Memory Care in Bozeman, on Jan. 27, 2024, at the age of 73.

Peter C. Pisk, 98

Peter Charles Pisk, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and respected chiropractic physician, passed away at the Montana Veterans’ Home in Columbia Falls on Feb. 6, 2024. He was 98 years young.

Boys Hoops: C-Falls routs Libby; Whitefish cruises

COLUMBIA FALLS — Mark Robison scored a team-high 15 points, 12 in Columbia Falls’ dominant first quarter, and the Wildcats downed the Libby Loggers 71-29 Tuesday in Northwest A boys basketball.

Whitefish Mountain Resort looks to create new subdivision

The company that owns Whitefish Mountain Resort is seeking to develop a small residential subdivision on Big Mountain.

Whitefish Community Foundation awards grant for Bigfork afterschool program

Whitefish Community Foundation recently awarded a $90,000 multi-year Kids Fund grant to Bigfork ACES to support the creation of an afterschool program for middle school students.

Legals for February, 14 2024

Law roundup: House party overflow moves to rooftop

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a call from someone in Bigfork who was reportedly worried that a crowd of about 30 people inside and on the roof of a house across the street were going to “take over his house.”

Five Montana sites recommended for National Register inclusion

All five nominations were recommended for forwarding by the governor-appointed Montana Historic Preservation Review Board, according to the Montana Historical Society.

Talk looks at historic places in Montana

Montana has more than 1,100 places and buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Increasing costs straining Kalispell's road maintenance funds, officials say

Public Works officials warned Kalispell City Council on Monday that inflation threatened to cut into the department’s ability to keep up with roadwork.

House votes to impeach Mayorkas, a historic rebuke of sitting Cabinet member by Republicans

WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. House voted Tuesday to impeach Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, with the Republican majority determined to punish the Biden administration over its handling of the U.S-Mexico border after failing last week in a politically embarrassing setback.

Trump wants to install new RNC leadership including his daughter-in-law as co-chair

NEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump wants a leadership change at the Republican National Committee in an attempt to install a new slate of loyalists — including his daughter-in-law — atop the GOP's political machine even before the former president formally secures the party's next presidential nomination.

Senate passes a $95.3 billion aid package for Ukraine and Israel, but fate in the House is uncertain

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate early Tuesday passed a $95.3 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, pushing ahead after months of difficult negotiations and growing political divisions in the Republican Party over the role of the United States abroad.

US inflation slows but remains elevated in sign that price pressures are easing only gradually

WASHINGTON (AP) — Consumer inflation in the United States cooled last month yet remained elevated in the latest sign that the pandemic-fueled price surge is only gradually and fitfully coming under control.

Kalispell Planning Commission to host hearing on city's future participation plan

Kalispell Planning Commission will solicit input Tuesday on a forthcoming public participation plan, which will change how residents engage with the city on developments and establish a long-term game plan for city growth.

Alleged squatter given suspended jail sentence

Prosecutors brought Dion Jay Stark, 52, up on a felony count of intimidation following the March 29 confrontation near the intersection of Two Mile Drive and the U.S. 93 bypass in Kalispell.

Browning girls roll past Ronan, 59-29

BROWNING — Jerel Whitegrass scored 14 points, Sugar Spoonhunter added 10 and Browning took control early in a 59-29 Northwest A girls basketball win over Ronan Monday.

Law roundup: Man wonders why shady situation is so bright

A Bigfork resident reportedly called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office asking for extra patrol in the neighborhood to find out why lights were on in a house across the street. It wasn’t the first time he shined a light on what he suspected was a shady situation.

Legals for February, 13 2024

Suspected gun thief given suspended jail sentences

Initially brought up on a count of felony theft in Flathead County District Court, Steven Salvador Reyes, 45, struck a deal in the fall that saw prosecutors amend the charges to three misdemeanor counts of theft.

4th-quarter surge sparks Browning boys

RONAN — Maurice Redhorn III scored 26 points and Browning used a 9-1 fourth-quarter run to take control in a 70-63 win over Ronan Monday, giving the Indians 10 league wins.

Tom Elliot, 76

Tom (Thomas Clark) Elliot, 76, passed away on Jan. 25, 2024, after a 23-year battle with prostate cancer.

Letters to the editor Feb. 13

Letters to the editor Feb. 13

Voters to decide fate of resort tax for Big Mountain

Voters who live on Big Mountain will get to decide whether the area should be allowed to collect a resort tax.

Oregon officials report bubonic plague in local resident

BEND, Oregon (AP) — Public health officials in Oregon have reported a case of bubonic plague in a local resident who they said likely contracted it from a pet cat.

Trump asks Supreme Court to put off his election interference trial, claiming immunity

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Donald Trump is asking the Supreme Court to extend the delay in his election interference trial, saying he is immune from prosecution on charges he plotted to overturn his 2020 election loss.

Stock market today: Wall Street hangs near records ahead of inflation report

The S&P 500 slipped 4.77 points, or 0.1%, to 5,021.84 after closing Friday above the 5,000 level for the first time. Most of the stocks in the index rose, but losses for Microsoft and other tech companies weighed on the index.

Trump endorses Sheehy after Rosendale enters Senate race

Former President Donald Trump endorsed Tim Sheehy in Montana’s U.S. Senate Republican primary Friday afternoon just hours after Congressman Matt Rosendale announced he was running against the Bozeman businessman.

Law roundup: Guests heatedly refuse to leave hot tub

Two lodge guests allegedly refused to get out of the hot tub after being told the area was closed.

Record cocoa prices heading into Valentine's Day proves to be a headache for sweets king Hershey

MICHELLE CHAPMAN AP Business Writer

Recession risks are fading, business economists say, but political tensions pose threat to economy

Just a quarter of business economists and analysts expect the United States to fall into recession this year. And any downturn would likely result from an external shock — such as a conflict involving China — rather than from domestic economic factors such as higher interest rates. But respondents to a National Association of Business Economics survey released Monday still expect year-over-year inflation to exceed 2.5% — above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target — through 2024.

Letters to the editor Feb. 12

Letters to the editor Feb. 12

Adult dancers in Washington state want a strippers' bill of rights

The bills are the culmination of six years of advocacy work by Strippers Are Workers, a dancer-led organization in Washington, in response to wide regulation gaps for strippers at the 11 clubs across the state, said Madison Zack-Wu, its campaign manager.

Kalispell City Council to get update from street maintenance, traffic divisions

During its Monday work session, Kalispell City Council will review services rendered by the municipality’s Street Maintenance and Traffic, Signs and Signals divisions.

Browning educator works to preserve Blackfeet language

Robert Hall is the Blackfeet Native American Studies Director for Browning Public Schools, curating a curriculum for the Blackfoot language and preserving the tribes’ cultural traditions for the next generation.

Legals for February, 12 2024

State Swimming: Glacier school records fall

The team results weren’t quite what Karen Bouda or the Glacier Wolfpack wanted, but the veteran swim coach for both of Kalispell’s AA schools prefers to stay positive.

Law roundup: Barfly fires back when card is declined

A bar patron in Kalispell allegedly went mad when the establishment “didn’t take his card” and began yelling then went outside, firing three gunshots in the air before heading westbound on Montana 35.

Troupe, Thompson are champs

Flathead has 3 champions, Glacier checks in with 2

BILLINGS — They were a long time coming, but Flathead’s Anders Thompson and Sawyer Troupe finished their wrestling seasons a combined 90-0 Saturday, each with that elusive state championship.

Flathead Business Newsmakers

Happenings at Flathead businesses

Thrice is nice: DeShazer wins 3rd state title

C-Falls Fainter wins at 113

BILLINGS — Libby’s Jace DeShazer picked up his third state championship and finished off a perfect 47-0 season on Saturday, defeating Miles City’s Easton DeJong. No surprise there.

Edward Duane Stefanatz, 80

Edward Duane Stefanatz, 80 of Kalispell, passed away on Feb. 2, 2024, at Logan Health Center, after a tough battle with cancer.

Arlen S. Roll, 88

Arlen Roll, 88, was born in a cabin on the Yellowstone River near Glendive on Dec. 26, 1935.

Richard Taylor, 91

Richard Laurence Taylor, 91, was born March 4, 1932, in Stapleton, Nebraska, to Annabel and Laurence Taylor, during the Great Depression.

Science shows healthy wolf population

The most recent data compiled by state and federal wildlife biologists shows a healthy, diverse and stable wolf population in the northern Rocky Mountains.

Letters to the editor Feb. 11

Letters to the editor Feb. 11

Legals for February, 11 2024

Girls Hoops: Vals cruise Saturday

Polson edges Ronan, Browning rolls

Ava Davey led four Bigfork players in double figures with 17 points and the Valkyries made short work of Whitefish Saturday, 71-22, in Northwest A girls basketball.

Roy Jimmerson, 96

Roy Jimmerson, 96, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, in Kalispell, Montana.

Behind the open mic

Now a weekly event, the all-comers confab traces its roots to about six years ago, when emcee-organizer Colton Christensen worked at a Whitefish restaurant.

Embroidery and screen printing business aims for growth after ownership change

Former owner Olivia Krause is used to the constant hum of the embroidery machines that fill the air in a newly rented building in Kalispell.

Montana Bar Fairies seek to stem drunk driving by rewarding those who get a sober ride

The mother-daughter team of Carli Dewbre and Beth McBride spend their weekends prowling the streets of Flathead Valley long before the sun comes up.

Butte tops Bravettes, Braves at Flathead gym

Flathead’s Braves and Bravettes fell short on the basketball court Saturday afternoon, with visiting Butte closing out one game late (girls) and building a big lead early (boys) for two Western AA wins.

Kevin P. Dreyer, 61

Kevin P. Dreyer, 61, passed away in his sleep at home on Jan. 26, 2024. He was born in Minot, North Dakota, to Doris and Gerald Dreyer.

Virginia Doerschlag, 98

Virginia Audrey (Hagen) Doerschlag, 98, passed away from natural causes on Dec. 30, 2023.

Flathead Lake dam operator ignores calls for action

In the summer of 2023, Flathead Lake was over a foot low on the Fourth of July. Everyone knew there was a problem that soon turned into a disaster.

Medicaid expansion must be renewed

Plain and simple — people get sick. Right now, more than 250,000 predominantly low-income Montanans get help with health care through Medicaid — a state-federal partnership.

Boys Hoops: Vikings subdue Bulldogs

Browning, Ronan score wins

BIGFORK — Bigfork’s Austin Savik scored seven of his 18 points in the fourth quarter, helping the Vikings subdue Whitefish 51-46 in Northwest A boys basketball action Saturday.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Glacier National Park virtual field trips hope to inspire connection with nature

From climbing over logs in Glacier’s dense forests to trudging up a mountain, Lindsay Brandt tells her students to prepare for different parts of the hike much like she would in real life. Immersing the class in the habitats of the park might make them wonder what kinds of animals live there, a question that she posed to the students multiple times during the field trip.

Montana State offers incubator program partnered with startup experts

The Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship’s 406 Labs is accepting applications for its spring 2024 incubator.

Homelessness rises as courts block housing

A new national report and a new court filing, both coming within the past two weeks, paint a dire picture for Montana’s housing crisis.

Vonda McCubbins

Vonda Fairchild McCubbins was born at home on April 28, 1931, to Walter and Grace Fairchild in Max, Nebraska.

PHOTOS: Barstool Ski Races at Cabin Fever Days

Photos from the Barstool Ski Races at Cabin Fever Days in Martin City on Saturday, Feb. 10.

Friday Boys: Browning hands C-Falls 2nd league loss

Eureka moves to 10-0 in 7-B games

BROWNING — Maurice Redhorn III scored 19 points and the Browning Indians made a nine-point halftime lead hold up for a big 67-58 boys basketball win over Northwest A rival Columbia Falls Friday.

Prep Hoops: Wolfpack girls win, boys fall to Butte

A mild upset by the Glacier girls seemed to set the host Wolfpack up for a basketball sweep against visiting Butte Friday. The Bulldogs’ Hudson Luedtke had other ideas.

Charter schools are coming to Kalispell

Flathead and Glacier high schools are moving forward with charter school rollouts. The two high schools will begin gauging student interest this week and next week as students start registering for the 2024-25 year.

State Wresting: MatCats' Fainter, Libby’s DeShazer make semis

BILLINGS — Jace DeShazer’s run for a third state championship started strong with a pair of victories on Saturday, and Columbia Falls’ Traic Fainter joined him in the semifinal round after a good early showing.

Governor still mum on tribal law enforcement in Lake County

Officials in Lake County say the clock is ticking for the state to assume felony law enforcement duties on the Flathead Indian Reservation, but so far they’ve heard nothing from Gov. Greg Gianforte.

State Wrestling: Brawlers advance 10 to semis, Wolfpack 4

Bravettes, Wolfpack girls have 2 semifinalists each

BILLINGS — The Thompson Twins are going strong and so are the Flathead Brave Brawlers.

Big Sky Men: Griz rout NAU

Cats fall at No. Colorado

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Aanen Moody had 20 points in Montana's 94-66 victory against Northern Arizona on Thursday night.

Matt Rosendale launches 2024 campaign for US Senate

Eastern Montana’s Republican Congressman Matt Rosendale ended months of teasing a possible bid for U.S. Senate on Friday by officially declaring his candidacy for the race, kicking off what is sure to be a heated Republican primary.

McCrea found guilty of setting two fires in 2021

A Lake County jury found Craig McCrea guilty Thursday of two of four counts of arson related to a spate of wildfires in 2021, including one that resulted in the loss of four homes and 17 other buildings.

Legals for February, 9 2024

Boys Hoops: Genovese goes off in 4th, Whitefish boys win

Bigfork holds off Ronan

WHITEFISH — Mason Genovese scored eight of his 11 points in the fourth quarter to help Whitefish pull away from Libby for a 59-43 win in Northwest A boys basketball action Thursday.

Matthew Emerson, 47

Matthew Joseph Emerson, 47, quietly passed away in his home located in Huachuca City, Arizona, on Nov. 12, 2023.

Columbia Falls group wants EPA to reconsider Superfund cleanup plan

A local group is asking the Environmental Protection Agency to reconsider an off-site waste removal plan for the Columbia Falls Aluminum Company Superfund site after the federal agency proposed an on-site containment of toxins instead.

Bravettes lose at Missoula Big Sky

MISSOULA — Kadynce Couture scored 19 points and the Missoula Big Sky Eagles used a big second quarter to push past Flathead 56-48 Thursday in Western AA girls basketball action.

Into the Deep End

Grid standout Keim closing out swim career

This fall Glacier’s Isaac Keim will suit up for Bobby Hauck’s Montana Grizzlies, but now he is setting records in the swimming pool for the Wolfpack.

Letters to the editor Feb. 9

Letters to the editor Feb. 9

Montana’s public lands should be run by Montanans

As a fifth-generation Montanan, I have fond memories with my Grandpa Daines of learning how to fish and hunt north of Big Timber, and my goal is to pass these traditions on to my own children and grandchildren.

Girls Hoops: Smith’s big first half sparks Whitefish girls

Big Sky routs Ronan

LIBBY — Bailey Smith scored 25 points, Ainsley Scott added 13 and Whitefish built a big first-half lead on the way to a 61-30 win over Libby in Northwest A girls basketball Thursday.

Law roundup: Taxidermied coyote found stuffed in snowbank

A prankster propped a stuffed coyote up on a snowbank along Nucleus Avenue prompting an employee of a nearby grocery store to contact the Columbia Falls Police Department.

James David "Dave" Jorgensen, 87

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James David “Dave” Jorgensen, 87, on Nov. 16, 2023.

Big Sky Women: Bobcats stymie Bears

Lady Griz fall to NAU

BOZEMAN — Madison Hall scored 19 points and Montana State rode a dominant first-half defensive performance to a 61-40 Big Sky women’s basketball win over Northern Colorado Thursday.

State Wrestling: Brawlers look to get back to top

Ronan dual threat at State

The way Jeff Thompson sees it, it’s a four-team race at the State AA boys wrestling meet that begins Friday at First Interstate Arena.

Late surge lifts Big Sky over Braves

MISSOULA — Carson Towe scored 14 points, five coming in a late 10-0 Missoula Big Sky surge that carried the Eagles past Flathead 67-59 Thursday in a Western AA boys basketball game.

The Supreme Court seems poised to reject efforts to kick Trump off the ballot over the Capitol riot

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court seems poised to reject attempts to kick former President Donald Trump off the 2024 ballot, with conservative and liberal justices in apparent agreement in a case that puts them at the heart of a presidential election.

West Valley selects Gross for superintendent

West Valley School District on Thursday selected Richard Gross for its superintendent position.

Lake County jury deliberates on complex arson case

“In Montana, smoke on the air means a lot of different things to a lot of different people,” Assistant Attorney General Thorin Geist told jurors Monday morning at the Lake County Courthouse. “But in the summer of 2021, that smell meant one thing to the defendant, Craig McCrea. The evidence in this case will show that for Craig McCrea, that smell meant one more fix, one more opportunity to use fentanyl.”

Special counsel: Biden 'willfully' disclosed classified materials, but no criminal charges warranted

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden "willfully" retained and disclosed highly classified materials when he was a private citizen, including documents about military and foreign policy in Afghanistan and other sensitive national security matters, according to a Justice Department report that nonetheless says no criminal charges are warranted for him or anyone else.

Dillon man found guilty of felonies related to participation in Jan. 6 insurrection

A Dillon man was found guilty of felony and misdemeanor charges related to his participation in the Jan. 6 insurrection in Washington, D.C.

Gianforte affirms Texas’ border actions against feds

Fresh off a trip to Texas, Gov. Greg Gianforte said Tuesday that Montana would assume responsibility for its shared border with Canada if federal officials failed to secure it.

Conservation district responds to couple behind McDonald Creek home in Glacier National Park

The Flathead Conservation District says a couple that it claims illegally built a home along the banks of McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park is trying to have its cake and it eat it too.

Linda Owens, 63

Linda Mae Owens, 63 of Martin City, Montana, passed away Feb. 1, 2024.

The necessity of an educated and engaged citizenry

Most Americans believe it is important to live in a democratically governed country. And a substantial majority say that democratic government is a very important factor in this nation’s success. But there is a significant gap between the attachment to democracy as an ideal and perceptions of how well our democracy is functioning and whether it is sustainable.

Columbia-Snake agreement plans next era of energy resources

The recent agreement between state and federal governments and some northwest tribal nations on the Columbia-Snake river system lays a path forward to both modernize our energy system and recover threatened salmon and steelhead to abundance on the lower Snake River.

Montana leads nation in homelessness increases in 2023 report to Congress

A recently released national report to Congress from December 2023 puts Montana at or among the heads of the pack when it comes to increases in homelessness.

Kalispell Public Schools taps assistant superintendent for top job

The Kalispell Public Schools Board of Trustees voted unanimously Tuesday to make Matt Jensen district superintendent.

Cabin Fever Days and Barstool Ski Races this weekend

Many events occur at multiple locations throughout Martin City, Hungry Horse and Coram. Martin City is the location of the World Famous Barstool Ski Races on Saturday, with several kids' events and snowshoe softball.

Legals for February, 8 2024

Law roundup: Laptop vanishes into thin air

A woman called the Kalispell Police Department alleging that a MacBook Air delivered to her husband’s business address was stolen.

Suspect in baseball bat attack given suspended sentence

A Flathead County District Court judge handed down a suspended sentence last month to a man accused of attacking another person with a baseball bat over an outstanding debt in early July.

Thompson Twins ready to roll

Jeff Thompson remembers being surprised that one child turned out to be two, but maybe he shouldn’t have. His wife was a twin, and his mom as a twin, and so it seemed like the odds were in their favor.

ImagineIF Library trustees poised to tap Dugan as director

The ImagineIF Library Board of Trustees is leaning toward giving the system’s interim director the job permanently and could vote to that end as soon as its Feb. 22 meeting.

Freeride skiers face tough conditions at Grand Targhee and Red Mountain

The Flathead Freeride Club traveled to Grand Targhee Resort in Wyoming and Red Mountain in British Columbia last weekend to compete in IFSA Junior National level competitions.

Wilderness Speaker Series returns

The Wilderness Speaker Series returns with presenters who will talk about the history of lookouts, grizzly bear management and art.

Contra dance planned for Feb. 10 in Bigfork

The Flathead County Democrats are holding a community dance featuring live music and an experienced Contra dance caller is set for Feb. 10 at the Swan River Community Hall in Bigfork.

12th annual FLIC film festival comes to Polson

The 12th annual Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC) presents more than 40 domestic and international films, featuring entries from a dozen countries. Sixteen of the entries were “made in Montana.”

Letters to the editor Feb. 8

Letters to the editor Feb. 8

International Guitar Night celebrates variety of genres

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

Energy Keepers acted appropriately in dealing with Flathead Lake's record low water levels, review finds

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission on Monday dismissed allegations that Energy Keepers, Inc., mismanaged Flathead Lake’s SKQ Dam last summer.

Port Polson Players bring murder-mystery to stage

The Port Polson Players have teamed up with KwaTaqNuk Resort to stage “My Fatal Valentine,” an old-fashioned dinner theater murder-mystery, Feb. 9-11.

Incashola leads Mission girls to key 7-B win

ST. IGNATIUS — Kieran Incashola scored 24 points including five 3-pointers and Mission topped Eureka and seized control of the District 7-B girls basketball standings Tuesday.

Redhorn skies for 29, Browning edges Whitefish

BROWNING — Maurice Redhorn III scored 29 points, 15 in a frenetic final quarter that ended with Browning pulling out a 72-70 boys basketball win over Whitefish Tuesday.

Republican Rosendale to enter Montana U.S. Senate race, upending GOP bid to take seat from Democrat

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Montana Republican U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale plans to run for U.S. Senate, upending a race in which many national GOP officials already coalesced around a different candidate as they seek to unseat three-term Democrat U.S. Sen. Jon Tester.

Senate Republicans block bipartisan border package, scuttling deal they had demanded from Democrats

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republicans blocked a bipartisan border package Wednesday, scuttling months of negotiations with Democrats on legislation intended to cut back record numbers of illegal border crossings.

Updated: Missing Marine Corps helicopter carrying 5 troops from Nevada to California has been located

SAN DIEGO (AP) — Crews were searching for a Marine Corps helicopter carrying five troops from Nevada to California that was reported overdue early Wednesday as an historic storm continued drenching California.

North Valley Food Bank launches winter food drive

To address the growing number of local residents who need food assistance, the food bank holds the annual FEED LOVE Food Drive from Feb. 2 through Feb. 16.

Economic forecast predicts slow growth for state

This was the summary offered by Patrick M. Barkey, the director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana, at the 49th annual Economic Outlook Seminar Tuesday at the Wachholz College Center at Flathead Valley Community College.

Gianforte talks internships, work experience at Glacier High School

Gov. Greg Gianforte talked career and technical education with Glacier High School students and faculty Tuesday, highlighting Kalispell Public Schools for its work in promoting out-of-classroom learning opportunities for students.

Michael Gartland, 65

Michael Scott Gartland, 65, beloved son, brother, uncle and friend, passed away at his home in Columbia Falls, on Feb. 1, 2024.

Humane Society of Northwest Montana seeks donations following burst pipes

The Humane Society is holding a Boiler Blues Fundraiser from Thursday, Feb. 8 through Thursday, Feb. 22 to mitigate the repair costs.

Law roundup: Package contains disturbing contents

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a call from a confused and concerned Kalispell woman who reportedly received a package containing...

Montana writers featured during series at Whitefish Community Library

Kicking off the series on Friday, Feb. 16 at 6 p.m. is Montana's 10th Poet Laureate Mark Gibbons.

Applications open for Whitefish workforce housing assistance program

This initiative is designed to support the workforce living and working in the Whitefish area by providing rental assistance to retain housing and facilitate entry into new rental units.

Kalispell City Council to put local government review before voters

During a short meeting Monday, Kalispell City Council unanimously approved a slate of resolutions, including one putting a possible review of local government before voters this spring.

How Montana’s federal races are stacking up money-wise to start 2024

Year-end political campaign finance filings from politicians vying for the three federal offices up for election this year in Montana show at least $30 million flowing in the U.S. Senate race alone, which is expected to be one of the most closely watched races in the country.

Flathead Valley housing nonprofits begin partnership

Northwest Montana Community Land Trust and Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley have signed a memo of understanding to work together to build homes that will remain permanently affordable and available only to income-qualified purchasers in perpetuity.

Legals for February, 7 2024

Man accused of aiming gun at family given pretrial diversion

A Flathead County District Court judge has dismissed a felony case against a man accused of aiming a gun at a family in a vehicle last year after he received a pretrial diversion agreement.

Man accused of leading smear campaign charged with stalking

Authorities are holding Daniel Edward Duffey, 39, in the county jail with bail set at $50,000 following his Feb. 3 arrest by Whitefish Police officers.

Trump is not immune from prosecution in his 2020 election interference case, US appeals court says

WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal appeals panel ruled Tuesday that Donald Trump can face trial on charges that he plotted to overturn the results of the 2020 election, rejecting the former president's claims that he is immune from prosecution and breathing life back into a landmark prosecution that had been effectively frozen while the court considered the arguments.

Dr. Robert Jerry Freiberg, 84

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Robert Jerry Freiberg, 84, fondly known as "Bulltrout" Bob, who departed this world on Feb. 2, 2024, in Kalispell, Montana.

Suspect in chase, standoff inks pretrial diversion agreement

Prosecutors brought Hayes Goggles III, 37, up on a felony criminal endangerment charge following his April 28 arrest. He initially pleaded not guilty in Flathead County District Court.

Alleged stabbing in Kila under investigation

A Sunday evening stabbing in Kila left multiple people wounded, authorities said.

Lawmakers want more info about Medicaid redeterminations

Health care providers, patient advocates and state lawmakers continue to hammer the administration of Gov. Greg Gianforte for removing more than 120,000 people from state Medicaid programs between April and November of last year, including many residents who say they remain eligible for coverage.

Former Montana Supreme Court justice joins other top judges in support of keeping Trump off ballot

Another notable Montana leader has joined a group of retired state Supreme Court justices throughout the country to urge the United States Supreme Court to uphold the decision by the Colorado Supreme Court to disallow former President Donald J. Trump from appearing as a presidential candidate on the 2024 ballot.

Law Roundup: Girlfriend interrupted, by beer can

A couple spending an evening drinking and talking about different topics took a turn when the boyfriend allegedly threw his beer can at her head because she kept interrupting him while he was speaking.

Sorting out Medicaid a monumental task

The response from our government to the Covid-19 crisis will be second-guessed and cross-checked for years to come. Some decisions made sense while some were egregious oversteps.

Letters to the editor Feb. 6

Letters to the editor Feb. 6

Legals for February, 6 2024

Flathead County sees rise in syphilis cases, mirroring national trend

Flathead City-County Health Department officials say the area is seeing an increase in cases of syphilis over the last several years, falling in line with a national trend.

Bigfork residents, businesses raise concerns about closure of unsafe bridge

Bigfork is no closer to a solution for the closing of the downtown Bridge Street Bridge despite a meeting between Republican U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, Montana Department of Transportation officials, Flathead County representatives, and Bigfork residents and business owners Friday.

King Charles III has cancer and is receiving treatment, Buckingham Palace says

LONDON (AP) — King Charles III has been diagnosed with a form of cancer and has begun treatment, Buckingham Palace said Monday. Less than 18 months into his reign he will suspend public duties but will continue with state business, and won't be handing over his constitutional roles as head of state.

Stock market today: Wall Street falls from its all-time high as cuts to rates look further off

U.S. stocks are falling Monday as Wall Street pushes out forecasts for when interest rates will start easing from the strictest levels in two decades.

Job market is humming, but layoffs are still happening in a shifting economic environment

The U.S. economy is humming and there are hundreds of thousands of jobs being added every month. In a stunning burst of hiring to start the year, the nation added 353,000 jobs in January, shrugging off the highest interest rates in two decades that have been put in place by the U.S. Federal Reserve in part to cool off hiring and spending.

Foundation board member nurtures the gift of giving

Alanna Weibert, a certified public accountant and one of three new board members of the statewide philanthropic organization, described it as perfect timing.

Kalispell City Council to take public input on infrastructure projects

Kalispell City Council will open Monday a public hearing spanning multiple meetings to give residents a say on what infrastructure projects to prioritize if the municipality applies for newly available state funding.

Legals for February, 5 2024

McDonald's sales growth slows with mideast war hurting results

McDonald's Corp.'s sales missed investor expectations in the fourth quarter as growth decelerated, hurt in part by the war in the Middle East.

Storage unit users are getting younger as memories — and junk —accumulate

Travis Willoughby is wrestling with what to do with the belongings he and his brother, Davis, have accumulated that fill a 10-by-10 storage unit along Dallas' Greenville Avenue.

Births

Births

Barbara Lewis, 78

Barbara Ann Lewis was born Sept. 27, 1945, to Robert and Evelyn Blacklaw in Walla Walla, Washington. She passed away on Jan. 8 at home in Polson.

Letters to the editor Feb. 5

Letters to the editor Feb. 5

Whitefish considers affordable apartment project

Whitefish City Council on Monday will consider approving a plan that looks to create 18 affordable apartments as part of the second phase of a complex on Edgewood Place.

Law roundup: Brake lines cut after troublemaker moves out

The brake line was reportedly cut on a woman’s vehicle.

GOP governors back at Texas border to keep pressure on Biden over migrant crossings

EAGLE PASS, Texas (AP) — As more than a dozen Republican governors gathered Sunday on the Texas border, Kyle Willis was across the river in Mexico considering his next move to enter the U.S.

Wrestling: Flathead sweeps Western AA titles

Glacier has 3 champs each for boys, girls

HELENA — The Flathead Brave Brawlers and Bravettes swept the Western AA Divisional wrestling titles Saturday, with the boys pushing 22 wrestlers through to this weekend’s state championships.

Support conservation measures to delist grizzlies

Reference is made to the opinion piece “Grizzly bear population is out of control,” by Dale Jorgenson, Daily Inter Lake, Jan. 18, 2024. Mr. Jorgenson makes some accurate observations — yet he attaches meanings to some of his facts that I suggest would benefit from additional information and discussion

John O. Olsen, 86

John O. Olsen, 86, passed away peacefully on Jan. 22, 2024, at the Montana Veteran’s Home in Columbia Falls.

Girls hoops: Browning routs Ronan

Polson holds off Libby

RONAN — Natalee St. Goddard scored 20 points, including three 3-pointers and Browning cruised to a Northwest A road victory over Ronan 78-32 Saturday.

Whitefish nonprofit denied full participation in housing lawsuit

The Montana Supreme Court has denied a Whitefish nonprofit’s request to intervene as a defendant in a lawsuit filed by a coalition of homeowners against the state.

Breaching hydropower dams carries collateral damage

Electric cooperatives across the Pacific Northwest have sounded the alarm in recent weeks about the consequences facing ratepayers if four Lower Snake River dams are breached.

Barbara Rollins Vine, 91

Barbara Rollins Vine, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, Jan. 31, 2024, in her Kalispell home at the age of 91.

Wrestling: Ronan cleans up at Western A

HAMILTON — Ronan’s boys rallied past Frenchtown in the final round to win the Western A Divisional Saturday, completing a sweep of the team titles at Hamilton High School.

Jo Anne Marie Ross, 92

Jo Anne Marie Ross, 92, began to dance with the angels and her beloved Bob on the morning of Jan, 30, 2024.

Response to Glasgow CFS case

I’m a father of five myself and I too have had interactions with Montana Child and Family Services.

Legals for February, 4 2024

Big Mountain neighborhoods look to create resort tax

A group of Big Mountain residents would like a resort tax implemented for the area as a way to pay for infrastructure needs.

Montana Pediatrics utilizes telehealth to close gaps in state’s health care system

When parents aren’t sure if they need to drive to the emergency room, they can call Montana Pediatrics care line and be connected with a pediatrician via a telehealth call.

Patricia Molen, 86

Patricia Molen, 86, passed away on Jan. 17, 2024. She was born in the suburbs of Buffalo, New York, to working class parents during challenging times.

Barbara Namen, 80

Beautiful Barbara Jean Namen, 80 of Polson, passed surrounded by family and friends at home on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024.

Boys Hoops: Tyler Anderson’s 3 beats buzzer, Polson

LIBBY — Libby’s Tyler Andersen hit a 3-pointer with 1.2 seconds left, and the Loggers knocked off Polson 42-41 Saturday for its first conference boys basketball win.

Flathead Business Watercooler

Business events, trainings and seminars

Letters to the editor Feb. 4

Letters to the editor Feb. 4

Takes two at Kalispell tango nights

Outside the Kalispell South Campus building on a chilly January night, the large windows frame a portrait of a brightly lit room of dancing couples in the close embrace of the Argentine tango.

Pass legislation to prevent another Glasgow case

The recent news coming out of Glasgow is very concerning. A child was taken away from her parents by Montana Child and Family Services because the parents were opposed to her transitioning into a male.

PHOTOS: 23rd Whitefish Penguin Plunge raises $94,000 for Special Olympics Montana

Participants leapt into the frigid waters of Whitefish Lake during the 23rd annual Penguin Plunge as part of the Whitefish Winter Carnival on Saturday, Feb. 3. Organized by the Law Enforcement Torch Run, this year's event raised $94,000 for Special Olympics Montana.

Hill leads C-Falls to 2nd Cat-Dog win

WHITEFISH — Jace Hill scored 20 points and two more Columbia Falls players hit double figures in the Wildcats’ 58-45 win over Whitefish Friday in Northwest A boys basketball.

Borgen, Kats beat Whitefish again

WHITEFISH — Taryn Borgen knocked down four 3-pointers and scored 23 points Friday, leading Columbia Falls to its second win over Northwest A girls basketball rival Whitefish this week, 49-22.

Montana politicians weigh in on Trump's legal battle to stay on ballot

Montana politicians are weighing in on the recent Colorado Supreme Court decision to boot former President and Republican presidential front-runner Donald J. Trump from the 2024 ballot.

Woman pleads not guilty to charges stemming from alleged accidental shooting

Stephanie Lea Roszko, 45, appeared before Judge Danni Coffman in Flathead County District Court for her Feb. 1 arraignment.

Possibility of wildlife-to-human crossover heightens concern about Chronic Wasting Disease

Each fall, millions of hunters across North America make their way into forests and grasslands to kill deer. Over the winter, people chow down on the venison steaks, sausage, and burgers made from the animals.

Senators reach a deal on border policy bill

Senate negotiators on Friday reached a deal on a proposal to overhaul the asylum system at the U.S. border with Mexico, clearing the way for Democratic and Republican Senate leaders to begin the difficult task of convincing Congress to pass a national security package that will include tens of billions of dollars for Ukraine and immigration enforcement, as well as funding for Israel and other American allies.

U.S. won't restore protections for wolves in Rockies

Federal wildlife officials on Friday rejected requests from conservation groups to restore protections for gray wolves across the northern U.S Rocky Mountains, saying the predators are in no danger of extinction as some states seek to reduce their numbers through hunting.

Biden joins grieving families of US troops killed in Jordan as remains arrive home

DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. (AP) — President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden joined grieving families at Dover Air Force Base on a gray, chilly Friday to honor the three American service members killed in a drone attack in Jordan.

Former Blackfeet operations manager pleads guilty to stealing Covid-19 funds

Former operations manager and public information officer for the Blackfeet Tribe James McNeely pleaded guilty Wednesday to stealing more than $78,000 in Covid-19 relief funds.

New study says climate change behind drop in Northern Hemisphere snowpack

New scientific research published earlier this month shows that human-caused climate change is putting the most densely populated areas of the Northern Hemisphere, including the American West, at risk of losing vast portions of their water supply because of decreasing snowpack.

State Revenue Department officials urge Montanans to check for abandoned assets

HELENA – The Montana Department of Revenue is holding about $128 million dollars that has yet to be claimed by citizens.

Boys Roundup: Whitefish races past Ronan

WHITEFISH — CJ Thew fueled Whitefish’s 24-point second quarter with 14 points, and the Bulldogs went on to beat Ronan 71-56 in a Northwest A boys basketball battle Thursday.

Housing advocates work to improve count of homeless population

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Trial date set for charges against Montana Public Service Commissioner Randy Pinocci

A lawyer defending Randy Pinocci said Wednesday he hopes three charges against the Public Service Commissioner will be dropped — but the Cascade County prosecutor said that doesn’t appear likely.

Girls Roundup: Stanger, Lady Lions hand Mission first 7-B defeat

EUREKA — Eureka’s Kara Stanger poured in 28 points, 20 in the second half as the Lions rallied past Mission 64-59 in girls basketball, handing the Lady Bulldogs their first District 7-B loss.

Crosstown split: Kennedy Moore hits big shot; Pack boys lead wire to wire

Kennedy Moore knocked down the go-ahead jump shot with 45 seconds left and the Flathead Bravettes picked up their first win in Western AA play over crosstown rival Glacier 54-48 Thursday.

Suspect in chase allegedly threatened officers

Prosecutors brought Scott Weslee Hill, 41, up on felony counts of criminal endangerment and threats or improper influence in official matters as well as one misdemeanor count of driving under the influence, first offense, following his Jan. 27 arrest.

Native artist Lyle Omeasoo selected to create logo for UM’s Nike 7 program

The Nike retail initiative encourages Indigenous youth to participate in sports and recreational activities.

"Betty" Bernice Triplett, 99

"Betty" Bernice Triplett (Hammill), 99 of Cedar Rapids, passed away peacefully at The Gardens in Fairfax, Iowa, on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024.

Legals for February, 2 2024

Law roundup: Case of the suspicious vehicle solved before officers arrive

A resident reporting a possibly abandoned silver Volvo to the Kalispell Police Department had the case broken wide open by the time officers arrived. The vehicle belonged to his grandson, he told authorities.

New board recommends phase 2 of Whitefish apartment project

The Whitefish Community Development Board voted unanimously at its inaugural meeting last week to recommend Phase 2 of the Alpenglow Apartments development.

Zinke, Rosendale take opposing sides on bill expanding child tax credit

U.S. Reps. Ryan Zinke and Matt Rosendale cast differing votes on a bipartisan bill that included provisions expanding the child tax credit, which passed the House of Representatives on Wednesday 357 to 70.

Whitefish Community Foundation scholarships open

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

Flathead, Glacier head to wrestling divisionals

Wrestling divisionals are upon us, and for the Flathead Brave Brawlers and Bravettes, the main thing is getting numbers through to next week’s All-Class State tournament.

Firefighters douse structure fire in Kalispell

Firefighters squelched a structure fire on Northwest Lane in Kalispell that sent a plume of smoke high above the city early Thursday afternoon.

PHOTOS: Flathead, Glacier split crosstown hoops

Photos from Glacier and Flathead's second crosstown basketball matchup of the season, this time at Glacier High School on Thursday, Feb. 1. The Wolfpack boys topped the Braves, 57-50, while the Bravettes were victorious over the Glacier girls, 54-48.

Allegations of ‘secret’ deal to remove four Snake River dams aired by U.S. House GOP at hearing

Republicans on a U.S. House panel blasted the Biden administration Tuesday for an agreement they said paved the way for four dams’ removal from the Snake River in eastern Washington state.

Bigfork Children’s Theatre holds auditions

The Bigfork Playhouse Children's Theatre is holding auditions for its upcoming production of "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat."

A rube arrives in Trout Creek

I had been eyeballing a piece of property in Trout Creek for about a year. It was cheap enough, I had the money, why not? So, I bought it.

At Logan Pass, endangered insect presents a quandary for flush toilets

An endangered insect could impact future water use at Glacier National Park’s Logan Pass Visitor Center.

Letters to the editor Feb. 1

Letters to the editor Feb. 1

Spend an evening with John Lithgow

An evening with John Lithgow at the Wachholz College Center has been rescheduled for April 8.

Damaged pipe left Evergreen mobile home park temporarily without water Tuesday

Evergreen Water and Sewer District personnel fixed a busted pipe near Mountain View Mobile Home Park on Tuesday.

Flathead Valley schools prevail in war of words

Be careful who you get into a friendly squabble with in these parts — chances are you’ll find yourself on the losing end of a debate with a state champion.

New Silos apartments open to tenants

Of the planned total 192 units, the first building of 40 units will open to tenants — of which 35 are still available to rent.

A night of cartoons, comedy and music

The Queen’s Cartoonists present an evening of whimsical and musical cartoon-inspired entertainment at the Wachholz College Center.

Father-Daughter Winter Ball Friday

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

Column: Greenhorns make history on BC ice

The Greenhorns made history on Jan. 21 at Lake Windermere, British Columbia, and it’s at least partly because a group of Whitefish High graduates started playing Wii.

Crosstown II promises another big crowd, more pressure defense

Girls game tips at 6 p.m.

Crosstown II is Thursday at Glacier High School, and Wolfpack boys coach Mark Harkins expects another tough game despite Flathead’s winless record.

Caging Cousins

Kelch, Kastelitz standout for Whitefish, Glacier hoops

This is a story about Mason Kelch and Cohen Kastelitz, first cousins who happen to lead their respective basketball teams — the Whitefish Bulldogs and Glacier Wolfpack — in scoring and rebounding.

Masterpiece concert series opens with Jewels of the Opera

Local violinist and teacher Wai Mizutani presents the first installment of his new concert series, Masterpieces, at the Wachholz College Center on Feb. 9.

Law roundup: No sanctuary for loiterers

A pastor asked the Kalispell Police Department to kick three people off the property who were loitering near the doors of a church’s sanctuary.

Bigfork Community Players hold auditions for ‘Steel Magnolias’

Auditions will be held starting at 2 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 10 at the rehearsal facility at 33606 Quarter Circle Way, Bigfork, in the large building at the top of the hill.

Legals for February, 1 2024

Gianforte rebuts far-right accusations about child protection case

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte is defending the state health department’s actions in an active child protective case against a wave of online criticism from conservative groups, including some far-right, anti-LGBTQ social media accounts, an unusually public commentary from the state’s highest elected official about confidential child welfare proceedings.

Additional show added for “Whose Live Anyway” run

After two nights of the performance based on the Emmy-nominated TV series "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" sold out, a third show has now been added for June 2. The improv sho begins at 7:30 p.m.

Last week to see ‘Guys and Dolls Jr.’ in Bigfork

Bigfork Playhouse Children's Theatre brings the musical comedy, “Guys and Dolls Jr.” to the stage with two weekend performances and a matinee. Set in vibrant New York City...