Ellington

Mission sweeps Eureka on diamond

ST. IGNATIUS — Eureka struggled to score runs against Mission-Arlee-Charlo in a pair of losses on Friday.

Libby's Johnston takes opener

HAMILTON — Libby sophomore Ryggs Johnston started his second prep season where the first one left off, with a win.

Young cub spotted climbing trees

A black bear cub was seen in a tree near Baker Avenue, according to the Whitefish Police Department.

FVCC cancels trustee election

Flathead Valley Community College has two new board of trustees and one returning after they were elected by acclamation.

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Mannequins around valley raise awareness about teen homelessness

Homeless teens often remain faceless and nameless to the people who pass them by, but the everyday challenges he or she faces is something Sparrow’s Nest of Northwest Montana is drawing attention to in the third annual “Somebodies” campaign.

Sewer plant upgrade dominates capital plan

Nearly half of a projected $42.5 million spending plan for capital improvements in Whitefish over the next five years will be spent on state-mandated upgrades to the city’s wastewater treatment plant.

Community gives back at 51st annual Creston Auction

From a few bales of hay and a hog to speedboats and automobiles, the annual Creston Auction has grown from its humble beginning in 1966 into one of the valley’s biggest and most anticipated events.

House infrastructure bill falls 2 votes shy of passage

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A House infrastructure bill failed passage Friday by two votes, nixed by fiscal conservatives who objected to $78 million in bonding contained in a measure that would unclog a backup of long-awaited bridge, sewer and water projects across the state.

Funding in place for Whitefish Trail expansion

Whitefish Legacy Partners now has all the money it needs to expand the Whitefish Trail into Haskill Basin, the organization said Friday.

Move ahead with property-tax relief

The Inter Lake has long been sensitive to the plight of many longtime residents of the Flathead who have found themselves taxed out of their family homes because of rising land prices in our popular locale.

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I’m writing in response to “Helmet law for the benefit of all.” Mr. Hoffman, I applaud your efforts, however misguided, to improve the safety of individuals in our state. If you want to continue with public education and the promotion of “safety gear,” that is commendable.

Commissioners, please take bus ride and rethink decision

It was discouraging to learn that the county recently declined to work collaboratively with the town of Whitefish to help ensure that the southern entrance to town has a chance to remain an attractive area free from helter-skelter development.

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I’m writing in response to “Helmet law for the benefit of all.” Mr. Hoffman, I applaud your efforts, however misguided, to improve the safety of individuals in our state. If you want to continue with public education and the promotion of “safety gear,” that is commendable.

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I’m writing in response to “Helmet law for the benefit of all.” Mr. Hoffman, I applaud your efforts, however misguided, to improve the safety of individuals in our state. If you want to continue with public education and the promotion of “safety gear,” that is commendable.

Polson starts season with sweep

POLSON — The Polson tennis teams started their season with a flurry as both the boys and girls teams swept the opening meet in perfect early-season weather on Thursday at Linderman tennis courts.

County, new rail park reap benefit of 'real-world' training

Students in the Flathead Valley Community College Heavy Equipment Operator’s class are gaining “real-world” experience working on the site of the new Glacier Rail Park this spring semester.

Montana Senate approves infrastructure package in close vote

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Senate barely mustered the minimum votes required to pass its infrastructure package, as concerns swirl that another legislative session might fail to produce a long-elusive deal to address the state's crumbling roads and bridges, antiquated sewer and water systems and a host of other infrastructure needs.

Libby man denies vehicular homicide charge

Richard Davidson, the man allegedly responsible for a two-vehicle crash in Lincoln County that left Troy woman Laura Cooper dead, pleaded not guilty to negligent homicide or the alternative vehicular homicide while under the influence, in court on Monday.

Trump and the rush to judgment

For those of us old enough to remember, many years ago there was a book titled “Rush to Judgment,” and it dealt with the Warren Commission dealing with the assassination of President Kennedy. History does not offer itself up to introspection for the most part, until at least 10 generations have passed, and the Kennedy assassination will remain somewhat obscure until that time. For by that time, anyone who was alive during that tragic event, will no longer be around to dispute any findings.

Bigfork on the trail of success

Momentum is building in Bigfork for a trail system that has been a dream of many outdoor enthusiasts for decades.

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Senate Bill 97 has been sent to the governor for his signature after passing both the House and Senate. It is titled, “Prohibit the Application of Foreign Law in Montana Courts.”

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Senate Bill 97 has been sent to the governor for his signature after passing both the House and Senate. It is titled, “Prohibit the Application of Foreign Law in Montana Courts.”

All in on the Northwest bandwagon

This isn’t how most people would’ve seen the Final Four playing out.

Man reports escape from attempted stabbing

A man reported being chased from a hotel by a man attempting to stab him with a knife on First Avenue East, according to the Kalispell Police Department. The man claimed to have been cut on the leg as a result of the incident but was unsure whether it was from the knife or from falling on the ground.

Work near Whitefish Lake has required permits

Construction of an access road and the removal of some trees on property along the east shore of Whitefish Lake has drawn concern from neighbors but is legally permitted work being done on private property, WGM Group senior planner BJ Grieve said.

Food bank's beloved program director retiring

John Emerson is the kind of guy who instinctively seems to know what everyone else needs, even before they may realize they need it.

Flathead High School to honor Class of '67

A longstanding tradition of honoring alumni who graduated 50 years ago will return to the Flathead High School commencement ceremony this year.

Whitefish photographer captures black bear taking a 'mega-byte'

A bear emerged from his long winter nap, anxious to catch up on current events, or so said the photographer who

Gianforte raises $1.5 million, Quist $750K for US Congress

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Bozeman Republican Greg Gianforte says he has raised about $1.5 million toward his campaign for Montana's only U.S. House seat.

Zinke: Border wall 'complex,' faces geographic challenges

WASHINGTON (AP) — Geographic and physical challenges — including the Rio Grande and threatened wildlife — will make it difficult to build the "big, beautiful wall" that President Donald Trump has promised on the U.S.-Mexico border, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said Wednesday.

Smith Valley voters reject $6M school bond

Voters in Smith Valley School District overwhelmingly rejected a $6 million bond issue in a mail-ballot election that ended Tuesday.

Colorado woman dies after vehicle gets stuck

An early evening call received by Mineral County dispatch on Friday, March 17, ended in tragedy. The body of Colorado resident Debra Ann Koziel was found in the Fish Creek area by a search team the following Tuesday afternoon. Her death was determined to be the result of exposure to weather.

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Man admits to robbing Olney cabin

A 23-year-old man admitted to robbing a couple’s cabin of more than $17,000 worth of property while under the influence before crashing his vehicle during his attempted escape.

Married couple accused in violent burglary

A married couple from Kalispell denied allegations that they broke into a man’s Helena Flats Road home and attacked him.

Students to attend business leadership conference

Eighteen students from Flathead and Glacier high schools have qualified to attend the Business Professionals of America National Leadership Conference following a state competition in Billings.

Bouncy ball causes brawl

When a man allegedly entered someone’s yard and stole a child’s ball, the homeowner yelled at him to return it. The man, instead, allegedly kicked the ball down the road, and the homeowner in turn claimed he ran out and shoved the man. The stranger reportedly left and returned with four other males, yelling profanities at the homeowner. The homeowner told the Kalispell Police Department he then went into the house, got his gun and kept it aimed at the ground as he suggested the men avoid coming onto his property. The four men then left, threatening to come back and “get him.”

Tom Dutcher, 80

Our husband, father, and friend Tom Dutcher passed away on March 27, 2017, at 80 years of age.

Mary Lou Grigg, 67

Mary Lou Grigg, 67, a longtime resident of Columbia Falls, passed away on March 16, 2017.

Montana Senate endorses concealed weapons bills

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Senate on Tuesday tentatively approved a measure along party lines granting state lawmakers the right to carry concealed firearms in the state Capitol and on other state property.

Trump tosses Obama's 'clean' energy plan, embraces coal

WASHINGTON (AP) — Declaring "the start of a new era" in energy production, President Donald Trump signed an executive order Tuesday that he said would revive the coal industry and create jobs.

Bears emerging from hibernation

Grizzly and black bears have begun emerging from dens, and with the warm weather and longer days of spring, more bears will likely be emerging in the coming weeks, state wildlife officials warn.

Longtime local card player makes her mark

Roughly 70 years ago, Helen Hensleigh had a decision to make: find another place to live or learn how to play bridge.

Locals debate conservation easement

Flathead locals questioned what public access would look like in a potential 13,400-acre land conservation easement between Weyerhaeuser Co. and the state.

Bigfork committee considers rezoning ag land

Two requests to rezone agricultural land into smaller parcels will be considered by the Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee on Thursday.

Col. Falls named Tree City USA

Columbia Falls has been named a 2016 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation for the city’s commitment to effective urban forest management.

John Bowdish awarded FVCC alumni award

Flathead Valley Community College honored John Bowdish this month with the 2017 Distinguished Alumni Award after his decades of work to support the college.

Local students qualify for nationals after state conference

State winners from Flathead, Bigfork and Whitefish high schools will advance to nationals after participating in a recent HOSA Future Health Professionals State Leadership Conference.

Infant's death caused by SIDS

Authorities have ruled the cause of death of 7-month-old Kobiya Ivan Joseph Broad of Evergreen as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Fowl play suspected in turkey deaths

Between 10 and 15 dead turkeys were reportedly found in a dumpster with several shotgun shells littering the ground around it, according to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.

Report: Montanans struggle to find substance abuse treatment

More than 90 percent of Montanans with alcohol or drug problems do not receive treatment, according to a new report.

Montana Senate endorses boosting cap on resort tax

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Senate has advanced a measure that would allow resort communities to hike resort taxes by as much as 1 percent with the consent of local voters.

Application process starts on April 3 for Great Fish Challenge

Nonprofit organizations interested in applying for the Whitefish Community Foundation’s Great Fish Community Challenge must submit an online application between April 3 and April 28 at

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Thanks for helping regional math contest

Thank you to all of the schools who participated in the Annual MCTM NW Regional Math Contest at Flathead Valley Community College. From 19 distinct schools in NW Montana, 423 “mathletes” competed in the math contest. I am proud to be a part of this marvelous competition! Congratulations to all of the participants who received awards in both individual and team tests. Please take a look at the top results published in the Daily Inter Lake.

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I was not born in Montana, but I’ve lived here for a long time; long enough to recognize the difference between someone who lives Montana values and someone who only talks them.

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Thanks for helping regional math contest

Thank you to all of the schools who participated in the Annual MCTM NW Regional Math Contest at Flathead Valley Community College. From 19 distinct schools in NW Montana, 423 “mathletes” competed in the math contest. I am proud to be a part of this marvelous competition! Congratulations to all of the participants who received awards in both individual and team tests. Please take a look at the top results published in the Daily Inter Lake.

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I was not born in Montana, but I’ve lived here for a long time; long enough to recognize the difference between someone who lives Montana values and someone who only talks them.

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PowerHouse Montana, the online platform connecting Montana women to the mentors and resources they need to succeed, will host a session called “Being Engaged in the Community is Better for Your Business” on Monday as part of the Mentor Monday series. It begins at 9 a.m. at the Montana West Economic Development office, 44 Second Ave. W. in Kalispell.

Board resignation story was one-sided

I read with great interest Sam Wilson’s March 13 article regarding Dick Erb’s departure from the Flathead Joint Board of Control. In my opinion, it was a one-sided series of complaints by former Commissioner Erb without any counterpoint from other commissioners with different viewpoints. It’s something we continually see from the print media when issues regarding the Flathead Irrigation Project are discussed. As a former commissioner, I would like to provide an opposing viewpoint.

Kalispell embarks on new journey

It’s a pivotal time for the heart of Kalispell.

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PowerHouse Montana, the online platform connecting Montana women to the mentors and resources they need to succeed, will host a session called “Being Engaged in the Community is Better for Your Business” on Monday as part of the Mentor Monday series. It begins at 9 a.m. at the Montana West Economic Development office, 44 Second Ave. W. in Kalispell.

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PowerHouse Montana, the online platform connecting Montana women to the mentors and resources they need to succeed, will host a session called “Being Engaged in the Community is Better for Your Business” on Monday as part of the Mentor Monday series. It begins at 9 a.m. at the Montana West Economic Development office, 44 Second Ave. W. in Kalispell.

Protecting the Flathead Basin is vital and necessary

How far would you go and what would you pay to protect the world class waters of the Flathead Basin? 

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Thanks for helping regional math contest

Thank you to all of the schools who participated in the Annual MCTM NW Regional Math Contest at Flathead Valley Community College. From 19 distinct schools in NW Montana, 423 “mathletes” competed in the math contest. I am proud to be a part of this marvelous competition! Congratulations to all of the participants who received awards in both individual and team tests. Please take a look at the top results published in the Daily Inter Lake.

Community news keeps newspapers as relevant as ever

Among the many fake news headlines making the rounds on the internet, one of the most popular is “Newspapers are dead.”

Quist headlines Kalispell public lands rally

A couple hundred people showed up to rally in support of keeping “Montana’s public lands in public hands” and to listen to Democratic candidate for U.S. House, Rob Quist, speak Saturday at Depot Park in Kalispell.

Is variety really the spice of life?

I’m a creature of habit.

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A BLUEPRINT FOR BIGFORK

A 1989 blueprint outlines a Bigfork trail system that was never put into reality.

David William Knauth, 77

David William Knauth, 77, of Bigfork, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 20, 2017, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Edward M. Lewis, 72

Edward M. Lewis, age 72, passed away Monday, March 13, 2017, in Kalispell. After 17 days in the ICU at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, he “went to the happy hunting place in the sky!”

Jon Boyd Morrison, 64

Jon Boyd Morrison, passed away quickly on March 14, 2017, in Somers.

Ed Vernarsky, 79

Ed Vernarsky, passed away at his home in Kalispell, on March 9, 2017.

Allan B. Cassan, 73

Allan Bruce Cassan, 73, died on March 16, 2017, at Yuma Regional Medical Center in Yuma, Arizona.

Betty D. 'B.J.' Johnson Norem

Betty D. “B.J.” Johnson Norem, of Creston, peacefully passed away on March 22, 2017, in Kalispell.

Stephen Ronnie Wills, 65

Stephen Ronnie Wills, 65, passed away Tuesday, March 14, 2017, at his home in Kalispell after a courageous battle with multiple medical conditions.

Montana Senate endorses boosting cap on resort tax

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Senate has advanced a measure that would allow resort communities to hike resort taxes by as much as 1 percent with the consent of local voters.

Idaho woman says she crashed because she saw a sasquatch

MOSCOW, Idaho (AP) — A northern Idaho woman told police she crashed into a deer because she was distracted by a sasquatch in her rearview mirror.

Ford dealerships to combine at North Kalispell location

One of 12 lots opening up on more than 80 acres of land on Highway 93 north of Kalispell has been claimed by the Kalispell Ford and Whitefish Ford car dealerships.

Longtime Flathead teacher Sue Brown says goodbye

Flathead High School English teacher Sue Brown has taught thousands of students over the past 40 years.

Hit gas line causes mall evacuation

After a construction crew hit a gas line at the mall, officers were forced to block off West Montana Avenue and Fourth Avenue traffic and evacuate the building while the leak was repaired, according to the Kalispell Police Department.

Escape artist to return to prison

A man convicted of an attempted jailbreak a week after his successful escape from Mineral County Jail has been sentenced to return to prison.

Man denies parole violations

A man convicted of sexually assaulting a 7-year-old boy in 2008 returned to court March 23 following several reported parole violations.

Montana's unemployment rate down to 3.8 percent in February

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate fell one-tenth of a percentage point to 3.8 percent in February, compared to the national rate of 4.7 percent.

Large RV park, cabin village proposed in W. Glacier

Neighbors raise concerns about traffic, impacts

An expansive recreational-vehicle park and cabin village proposed in West Glacier is slated for an April 12 public hearing before the Flathead County Planning Board, but already has drawn a considerable amount of comment from both year-round and seasonal residents concerned about traffic and community impact.

Utah man killed, wife injured in London attack

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A statement from the Mormon church issued on behalf of relatives says a Utah man was among those killed in a London attack and his wife was seriously injured.

Harry Dale Moore, 80

Harry Dale Moore passed away on March 15, 2017.

John Blackwood, 83

John Blackwood, 83, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2017, the first day of spring, at Heritage Place, with his loving wife and daughter at his side.

Guilty plea rejected in murder case

The guilty plea of a man charged with involvement in the murder of 35-year-old Wade Rautio in 2016 was rejected on March 23, and his change of plea hearing was rescheduled for a later date.

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Utah man killed in London attack was hit on bridge

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Family members of a Utah couple celebrating their anniversary on a European vacation say they're heartbroken by the London attack that killed the man and seriously injured his wife.

Montana lottery results from March 22

HELENA, Mont. (AP) – These Montana lotteries were drawn Wednesday:

Glacier Symphony's Easter Festival April 6-9

The Glacier Symphony and Chorale will hold three concerts as part of an Easter Festival, April 6, 8 and 9 at Flathead High School.

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Gil Jordan, the outgoing executive director at the Museum at Central School, has had a plan brewing ever since he announced he was going to retire last December.

Movie Moguls

It didn’t take much of a push to set it rolling, but once it started it accelerated rapidly.

Portrait workshop begins March 31

Painter Diana Neville Knowles will hold her next portrait workshop over four Fridays at the Bigfork Food Bank.

Multiple violent incidents occur near UK parliament

LONDON (AP) — Britain’s Parliament was on lockdown Wednesday after an assailant stabbed an officer, then was shot by police, officials said. London Police also said officers were called to an incident on Westminster Bridge nearby.

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Gil Jordan, the outgoing executive director at the Museum at Central School, has had a plan brewing ever since he announced he was going to retire last December.

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Black Curtain Theatre series presents 'Love Song'

The Black Curtain Theatre series, presented by Whitefish Theatre Co., continues Saturday and Sunday with “Love Song,” a romantic comedy written by John Kolvenbach.

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I attended both meetings regarding the Smith Valley bond proposal and took away the same disconnect that others felt as well. I also read letters to the editor both for and against this bond that will greatly impact the taxpayers of Smith Valley, a district that is by no means wealthy here in the Flathead.

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I attended both meetings regarding the Smith Valley bond proposal and took away the same disconnect that others felt as well. I also read letters to the editor both for and against this bond that will greatly impact the taxpayers of Smith Valley, a district that is by no means wealthy here in the Flathead.

Annual 'Death by Chocolate' murder mystery returning to Conrad Mansion

The 16th annual “Death by Chocolate” fundraiser at Kalispell’s historic Conrad Mansion Museum will feature “Super Heroes and Villains from 60s TV and Films” and is set for April 28 and 29 at 7 p.m.

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Player rest is good for fans

The NBA, we’re told, has a problem on its hands.

Whitefish's Vance medals at Special Olympics

Schladming, Austria — Whitefish’s Cedar Vance won the silver medal in the women’s alpine skiing advanced giant slalom at the Special Olympics World Winter Games on Tuesday at Hochwurzen ski resort.

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Murphy Maxine Claridge, daughter of Stryder and Sarah Claridge, was born Nov. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

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Murphy Maxine Claridge, daughter of Stryder and Sarah Claridge, was born Nov. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

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Murphy Maxine Claridge, daughter of Stryder and Sarah Claridge, was born Nov. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

Filmmakers fluster locals

Several men were reportedly seen taking pictures and asking for people’s names and phone numbers, claiming to be with AT&T filming a commercial on U.S. 2 East. According to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, someone who gave their information called in fearing they had been scammed.

Joshua J. Hanson, 34

Josh Hanson passed away in his sleep the morning of March 6, 2017.

Joyce Griffin, 94

Joyce Griffin, 94, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2017, the first day of spring, with her family by her side, after five years of loving care at the Brendan House in Kalispell.

Lawmakers debate educational brewing

After Montana lawmakers questioned the need for Flathead Valley Community College to operate a taproom Wednesday morning, supporters of an educational brewers license bill said it would bring the college out of a gray area.

Montana lawmaker revives bill to ban doctor-assisted suicide

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A Montana lawmaker has revived an attempt to outlaw physician-assisted suicides, this time with a twist: There's no mention of physicians or suicides.

Man threatens officers with machete after high-speed chase

Following a high-speed chase, Kalispell Police officers apprehended a man using stop sticks and a stun gun after the man allegedly threatened officers with a machete Tuesday night.

Four dead in car rampage, knife attack in London

LONDON (AP) — A knife-wielding man went on a deadly rampage at the heart of Britain’s seat of power Wednesday, mowing down pedestrians on London’s Westminster Bridge before stabbing an armed police officer to death inside the gates of Parliament. Four people were killed, including the attacker, and about 20 others were injured.

Bozeman city manager resigns at city commission's request

BOZEMAN (AP) — Bozeman’s city manager Chris Kukulski has resigned at the City Commission’s unanimous request.

Gordon Elee Hall, 81

Gordon Elee Hall was born in his grandpa’s house on Dec. 17, 1935, to Hershel and Maybelle Hall.

Colleges fight for funding

Montana community colleges are heading back to Helena this week, hoping to convince lawmakers not to chip away at the institutions’ state funding.

'Warrior' chaplain honored for taking down machete-wielding suicidal soldier

FORT BENNING, Ga. — The black cross patch on the right side of Capt. Matthew C. Christensen’s U.S. Army uniform tells a story.

County pawn law receives green light

A county-wide pawnbroker ordinance that aims to help law enforcement officers recover stolen property won unanimous approval on the first reading from the Flathead County commissioners on Monday.

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Nip in the butt ends man's walk

An alleged dog bite on the rear end ended one man’s walk for the day. The man told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office that two dogs approached him and one bit him on the buttock, ripping his pants and pinching the skin.

Gene LeRoy Skramstad, 94

Gene LeRoy Skramstad, of Kalispell, passed away March 17, 2017.

Gordon Elee Hall, 81

Gordon Elee Hall was born in his grandpa’s house on Dec. 17, 1935, to Hershel and Maybelle Hall.

Man found up a creek after police chase

Authorities arrested a Kalispell man following a high-speed chase through Kalispell involving a stolen pickup on Sunday morning.

Dog days begin in Kalispell

After nearly four years of planning, the Kalispell City Council unanimously approved a 3.5-acre dog park at Begg Park on Monday.

Smith Valley ballots due on March 28

Smith Valley voters are reminded to mail in ballots this week on a $6 million school bond issue in order to meet a March 28 deadline.

Medicare liens slow asbestos settlement process

Medicare liens placed on the state of Montana’s $25 million settlement with Libby asbestos victims has slowed the process of paying victims, but the money for most people involved in the settlement should be forthcoming yet this month.

Bill would allow educational taprooms

KATHERYN HOUGHTON

Church expansion, dental office top board agenda

A church expansion along Whitefish Stage Road and plans for a new dental clinic in Lakeside top the Flathead County Board of Adjustment’s April 4 meeting agenda.

Kalispell council mulls dog-park funding

Alternative funding options for a proposed dog park in Kalispell will be discussed tonight at the Kalispell City Council meeting.

Whitefish looks at variance for pollution standards

The Whitefish City Council tonight will consider asking the state for a variance from nutrient criteria the city can’t meet with conventional wastewater treatment technologies.

Inaugural '20 Under 40' celebration set for June

The Flathead Valley’s best and brightest young professionals will be honored in June at the inaugural 20 Under 40 celebration and event.

Teachers get creative with grant money

The Kalispell Education Foundation Great Opportunities Grants program awarded a total of $8,812 for innovative and special projects in schools.

Keep health protections for Libby

Libby asbestos victims got some welcome news earlier this month when it became known the proposed American Health Care Act — the Republicans’ repeal-and-replace bill for the Affordable Care Act — will preserve special provisions for the victims of asbestos exposure from the former W.R. Grace & Co. vermiculite mine in Libby.

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The Flathead County Science Fair Committee would like to extend a thank-you to the Flathead Valley community for helping make the science fair a success for our county’s third- through 12-graders. Our science fair depends on the support of the community, and it is great to see everyone come out to help. This event helps our students to refine their problem solving, critical thinking and public-speaking skills.

Why Smith Valley's school bond is the right choice

I’m writing in response to Mary Ann Lavelle. She was not able to attend the meetings on the Smith Valley School bond so she voiced some questions, concerns and false information. The school is open and there are lovely, knowledgeable, helpful ladies in the office that can answer all questions. Because these avenues were not taken, did the voter want to be informed and have questions answers?

Protecting viable fetus and life of mother

When is an abortion not an abortion?

Wine grape industry expanding in region

There was some interesting buzz at the Minnesota Grape Growers Association’s Cold Climate Conference last month, and it didn’t have anything to do with Minnesota grapes.

Bison Range's future

Feds should reject efforts to transfer facility to tribal control

Founded by President Theodore Roosevelt more than a century ago, the National Bison Range is often called the Crown Jewel of America’s National Wildlife Refuge System. It is also a major asset for Montana, attracting more than 200,000 visitors each year, making it among the most visited refuges in the nation. These mostly out-of-state visitors also pump an estimated $12.5 million into the local economy.

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The Flathead County Science Fair Committee would like to extend a thank-you to the Flathead Valley community for helping make the science fair a success for our county’s third- through 12-graders. Our science fair depends on the support of the community, and it is great to see everyone come out to help. This event helps our students to refine their problem solving, critical thinking and public-speaking skills.

TV interview should elicit love, not outrage

By Antony Davies and James R. Harrigan

Whitefish's Ash fights to electric finish in Calgary

CALGARY, Alberta — Whitefish mixed martial artist Hamilton Ash was on his way to a first round submission when the lights went out in his bout on Friday at Hard Knocks 54, a fight card for one of the top MMA promotions in North America.

Trump's war with CIA was preceded by Kennedy's

The New York Times, in a front-page story, said that the president “wanted to splinter the CIA in a thousand pieces and scatter it to the winds.”

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A birthday surprise

An exuberant bunch of first-graders joined forces recently to wish their teacher a happy birthday.

K-9 unit joins Kalispell Police force

Kalispell’s drug crime has a new arch enemy — a team of two armed with six legs and one powerful nose.

Young lawmakers finding their way in Montana's Capitol

HELENA (AP) — When the Montana House debated whether to require parental consent before minors can bronze themselves in tanning beds, there was lots of talk about brain development and young people’s inability to make wise decisions.

Clarence Anderson Watts, 89

Born on Nov. 11, 1927 to Signe Evelyn (Anderson) Watts and Cary Porter Watts in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Clarence was the second child of seven. The family spent their early years following construction jobs in several states, finally purchasing land in the Flathead Valley in 1942.

Dennis Dean Powell, 66

Dennis Dean Powell, 66, of Martin City, passed away March 14, 2017, at North Valley Hospital. Dennis was surrounded with the love of his family and friends.

Reckless man doing 'wheelies'

According to a Columbia Falls Police report, a man on a bike was seen doing “wheelies and stuff” on Second Avenue West. The man was believed to be 15 years old and was wearing a helmet. The caller was concerned that the man was being reckless, and reported that he was speeding up and down the road.

Bigfork looks to extend Swan River Trail network

A Bigfork community group is working to extend the village’s 2-mile Swan River Trail by six miles to create a connected recreational trail network.

Students sharpen math skills during cribbage tourney

Smith Valley School fourth-graders Aaron Conners and Royanne Wiedenmeyer jumped up from their seats, their jaws dropping slightly in astonishment.

Delores Tkachyk Weber, 78

Delores passed away in her home at Sweetwater Assisted Living in Billings on March 16, 2017. “She has gone to be with her beloved husband of 60 years, Leslie.”

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Harper Lee Silje Hopson, daughter of Tanner Hopson and Angela Volk, was born Nov. 21 at North Valley Hospital.

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Harper Lee Silje Hopson, daughter of Tanner Hopson and Angela Volk, was born Nov. 21 at North Valley Hospital.

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Harper Lee Silje Hopson, daughter of Tanner Hopson and Angela Volk, was born Nov. 21 at North Valley Hospital.

Carolyn Louise O'Neil, 81

Carolyn Louise O’Neil, 81, of Missoula, passed away surrounded by her family, on Saturday, March 11, 2017.

Train halted overnight due to mudslide

A mudslide on the tracks between Libby and Sandpoint required a passenger train carrying 130 people to hold overnight at the Whitefish Depot, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Firefighters smoke competition at Seattle stairclimb

Local fire departments dominated the competition at this year’s annual Scott Firefighter Stairclimb in Seattle last Sunday.

Iconic après-ski spot to get major remodel

A landmark of Big Mountain skiing culture is set to get a fresh look and a new lease on life.

Glacier reopens waters to limited boating

Glacier National Park plans to reopen its waters to hand-propelled boats, while keeping restrictions in place prohibiting private motorized watercraft.

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I would like to thank Hazel Rudolph for expressing her opposition to HB 536. Many of us seniors share her views but are unable to voice our support for the “right to die with dignity” legislation.

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I would like to thank Hazel Rudolph for expressing her opposition to HB 536. Many of us seniors share her views but are unable to voice our support for the “right to die with dignity” legislation.

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I would like to thank Hazel Rudolph for expressing her opposition to HB 536. Many of us seniors share her views but are unable to voice our support for the “right to die with dignity” legislation.

Business projects receive state grants

Economic development projects in Kalispell, Libby, Polson and Hot Springs have received grant funding through the Montana Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund.

Wolfpack a howling success at state

Glacier High School showed no fear in the thrilling final seconds of last Saturday’s State AA boys basketball championship.

Whitefish's Hamilton Ash back in the fight

Whitefish fighter Hamilton Ash has gained a lot of clarity through some of his biggest defeats.

Swim coach Lillard resigns

David Lillard, who has led the Glacier and Flathead high school swimming teams the last five seasons, has resigned as head coach, the schools announced on Thursday.

Mother killed in head-on crash ID'd

LIBBY (AP) — Authorities have identified the woman killed in a Tuesday morning crash near Libby as 45-year-old Troy resident Laura Cooper.

WIC faces shrinking caseload

Health officials are working to understand why participation numbers are dropping in a program that connects low-income pregnant women or women with young children to medical care — especially since those numbers determine the amount of federal dollars the program receives to stay afloat.

Flathead schools prep for prom

Saturday is the big night for dressing up and dancing the night away at Flathead Valley high school proms.

Senate president calls cyclists 'rude,' 'self-centered' before safety bill dies

HELENA — A bill to establish a safe distance between cars and bicycles sharing the road was voted down by the Senate on Monday after Senate President Scott Sales called cyclists “self-centered” and “rude.”

Woman denies charges in animal cruelty case

A Creston woman is denying charges of animal cruelty after nearly 40 dogs were seized from her property last month.

Bruce Dale Reimer, 90

Bruce Dale Reimer passed away of natural causes on March 14, 2017. “He quietly left this earth for heaven after walking faithfully with Jesus” for 90 years.

Allyn Ward Sheldon, 81

Allyn Ward Sheldon, 81, passed away Feb. 1, 2017, surrounded by his family.

Pig escape-artists continue to roam

A large brown pig wandered into the yard of a resident on Fourth Avenue East, according to the Columbia Falls Police Department. The “friendly” pig was believed to weigh over 200 pounds and took off down the road before his new friends could catch him.

Rain sets off slides, minor flooding

Lincoln County has declared a state of emergency, with the potential for minor flooding to worsen as rain and warm temperatures continue over the weekend.

Grain train derails in remote, steep area of northern Idaho

By STAR SILVA

A hand in history

By JOSEPH TERRY

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This is a rebuttal to the writer who supports Bill 325, making it legal to sell unpasteurized milk in Montana. He said, “There is no reasonable argument to keep the sale of raw milk illegal in Montana.”

Local-option tax long overdue

Just as there is a divide between big cities and small towns in national politics, so too there is a marked division between urban areas and rural counties in Montana — and never is that division more marked than when the topic is local-option sales taxes.

Planning begins for economic development strategy

The U.S. 93 bypass, Glacier Rail Park and the reconstruction of Going-to-the-Sun Road have one thing in common. All three projects were once included on the community wish lists that shaped the Flathead Valley’s comprehensive economic development strategy in years past.

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This is a rebuttal to the writer who supports Bill 325, making it legal to sell unpasteurized milk in Montana. He said, “There is no reasonable argument to keep the sale of raw milk illegal in Montana.”

Sherron Bowman, 81

“Heaven welcomed an angel” Monday, March 13, 2017, when Sherron passed away surrounded by her loved ones.

Helen Elaine Brekke Thompson, 86

Helen Elaine Brekke Thompson was born in Havre on March 18, 1930, to Olaf and Pearl Brekke.

Man wants bullet for a souvenir

A man who was accidentally shot over the weekend called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to ask if he could have the bullet back so he could mount it.

Whitefish school wins statewide tech competition

Whitefish Middle School has won new technology valued at approximately $26,000 after being named the Montana winner in the Samsung “Solve for Tomorrow

Street, Duff, Raddatz inducted into Heritage Center Hall of Fame

The Flathead Ski Heritage Center and the Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation have announced that two original Winter Sports, Inc. Board members Russ Street and Roy Duff, and long-time ski instructor Al Raddatz will be the 2017 inductees into the Ski Heritage Center Hall of Fame.

Bill would restrict late-term abortions

A bill that would effectively prohibit the abortion of a fetus capable of surviving outside the womb, even if the mother’s life is at risk, is making its way through the state Legislature.

Mother killed, children injured in head-on crash

A two-vehicle crash on U.S. 56 in Lincoln County west of Libby left one person dead and three injured Tuesday morning.

Evergreen woman changes plea in Echo Lake murder case

An Evergreen woman accused of involvement in the 2016 murder of Wade Rautio near Echo Lake has admitted to a lesser charge as part of a plea deal.

Omar B. Steyee, 91

Omar B. Steyee, 91, passed away March 8, 2017, in Kalispell.

Timothy Patrick Hanlon, 66

Timothy Patrick Hanlon was born Nov. 8, 1950 — smack dab in the middle of the 20th century in North Vancouver, British Columbia.

Harriet Rosen, 77

Harriet Rosen, 77, of Kalispell, passed away from complications of kidney cancer on March 10, 2017.

Daniel Scott May, 39

A devoted friend, father, brother and son, Daniel Scott May, of Cowley, Alberta, was born on Jan. 11, 1978, and “joined Our Lord” on March 7, 2017, after a 13-year battle with brain cancer. He was 39.

Roy Rodney Butts, 85

On Feb. 15, 2017, Roy Rodney Butts, beloved father, husband, “Grampa,” uncle and loyal friend, “passed on to the embrace of our heavenly Father” after a valiant fight with illness, surrounded by loving family.

Montana's tourist hubs want OK for higher resort taxes

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The small gateway towns to Montana's scenic icons, including Yellowstone and Glacier national parks, want state lawmakers to give them permission to raise local resort town taxes as much as 1 percent so they can pay for road and well upgrades and finance housing for local workers, supporters said Tuesday.

Hound packs a bag and plays hooky

A golden retriever wearing a backpack was seen running down Central Avenue, possibly ditching school. The person who found the dog told Whitefish Police that they were unable to catch the dog before it ran off.

Presidential Scholars Program announces candidates

Eight seniors from around the Flathead Valley have been named candidates of the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

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Today

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Zinke promises changes at Park Service

A backlog of infrastructure projects. A promise to reorganize the National Park Service. No tolerance for sexual harassment and prayers from the Blackfeet.

Flathead, Glacier have two named to all-state basketball teams

Glacier senior Jaxen Hashley helped lead his team to the first state basketball title in school history last weekend. On Tuesday, he was one of the leading vote getters on the Class AA all-state team, one of four players honored from Kalispell.

Polson's Rensvold, Wilson, Whitefish's Kastella named all-state in basketball

Two senior members of the Polson High School boys basketball team have received Class A all-state honors.

Paul Howard Fugleberg, 86

Paul Howard Fugleberg of Polson, 86, passed away Sunday, March 5, 2017, of natural causes. He was surrounded by his loving family.

Bobbi Jo Bernau, 41

Bobbi Jo Bernau, age 41, was born March 26, 1975, to Allen and Linda Bernau in Kalispell. BJ passed away March 8, 2017, after a courageous three-year battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.

Wallace Ray Downing, 86

Wallace Ray Downing, 86, of Kalispell was born Feb.14, 1931, in Hamilton to Clare and Kathleen Downing.

Eva L. Smith, 101

Eva L. Smith, 101, of Ferndale, died March 8, 2017, in Kalispell.

Perry Lee Warren Jr., 64

Our beloved dad, son, grandpa, brother, nephew, cousin, uncle and friend, Perry Lee Warren Jr., physically departed from this great planet earth due to heart failure on March 4, 2017.

Jobless rate inches upward in Flathead Co.

Flathead County’s unemployment rate posted at 6.7 percent in January, increasing from 5.9 percent in December, the state Department of Labor and Industry said Monday.

Montana lawmakers consider bill on abortion restrictions

State lawmakers are considering a bill that would prohibit the abortion of an unborn child that has a probable post-fertilization age of 20 or more weeks.

Housing, mixed-use request top Whitefish board agenda

The Whitefish Planning Board has a mixed bag of public hearings on its Thursday meeting agenda, including a commercial building, five-lot subdivision, mixed use complex, two accessory apartments and four rezoning requests by the city to annex more land.

Bigfork biker takes travels statewide

In 2003, to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of Harley Davidson, Bigfork resident Ron Brevik bought himself a new bike. Not just any bike, but the anniversary bike. A 2003 FXSTS Springer Softail. With that bike he also made a goal to ride every mile of asphalt in the state of Montana.

Council work session to tackle business district

A Kalispell City Council work session on Tuesday, March 21 will invite public discussion on the renewal and expansion of the downtown Business Improvement District that is set to expire this summer.

Time for the U.S. to put money where its education is

According to the Chinese Education Center Ltd., the budget for tuition-free higher education in China increased by 45 percent from 2007 to 2011 and has continued a similar pace. Enrollment is over 35 million, up from 9 million in 2001. These are indicators of a culture on the rise.

What happened to the liberal GOP?

Throughout history, Republicans led some extremely progressive movements. I mean some serious “liberal” ones. Abe Lincoln united the country and freed the slaves — how “liberal” of him! Republicans voted for the Civil Rights Act in 1964 with 80 percent of Republicans in the House and 82 percent in the Senate. Today that is considered a “liberal” movement. Many Republicans helped minorities register to vote, rallied and fought for that right; somehow liberals decided to “own” it.

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We must stop the puppy mills!

Political fallout

Liberal media loses no time going for the jugular

Politics is getting pretty boring ... and we’re only one month into the Trump presidency. The blood sport which is politics is in full swing. The criminal news media — most outlets except for a few newspapers, FOX, and AM talk shows — seem to have developed amnesia or at least a severe case of double standards. Everything the new Trump administration does is evil, mean spirited, doesn’t reflect American values and must be stopped to save our very civilization itself. Ask any liberal, Democrat, or member of the drive-by media.

Time to invest in state infrastructure

Rep. Frank Garner is to be commended for his vision and courage in sponsoring HB 473, that will make Montana’s roads and bridges safer while wringing more efficiency and accountability from the government entities that receive those new fuel tax dollars.

Take action to protect waters now

How far would you go and what would you pay to protect the world-class waters of the Flathead Basin? 

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We must stop the puppy mills!

Remember, public records are your records

By KENNETH KRAMER

Sneak attack on wilderness areas not fair

When I was a kid and was learning to hunt, stealth and surprise often resulted in hunting success. But I also played team sports that taught me sportsmanship, and the importance of rules in competition. A little later on I learned that some adults don’t like to lose and will throw the rulebook and sportsmanship alike out the window just to get their way.

Polson boys 3rd in Class A state basketball

BUTTE — Polson finished Class A state boys basketball tournament action Saturday evening at the Butte Civic Center on a positive note.

Polson boys 3rd in Class A state basketball

BUTTE — Polson finished Class A state boys basketball tournament action Saturday evening at the Butte Civic Center on a positive note.

Polson boys 3rd in Class A state basketball

BUTTE — Polson finished Class A state boys basketball tournament action Saturday evening at the Butte Civic Center on a positive note.

Leaders of the Pack

By JOSEPH TERRY

Leaders of the Pack

By JOSEPH TERRY

Don't balance budget on college's back

The Legislature faces a daunting task in balancing the budget, and we appreciate the fact that no government program or service should be considered sacrosanct when making the tough choices about how to match expenditures to revenue.

Donald Trump, Huxley and the 'enemies of freedom'

It was the tweet heard round the world.

William Bane 'Bill' Swanstrom, 81

William Bane “Bill” Swanstrom passed away March 5, 2017, in Great Falls.

Allan Clark, 92

Allan Clark, 92, passed away March 5, 2017.

Patricia 'Trisha' Anne (Walisch) Toftum, 73

Patricia “Trisha” Anne Toftum (Walisch) of Columbia Falls passed away Feb. 27, 2017, at the age of 73 due to cancer.

Ronald W. (Ron) Lyford, 86

One of Flathead’s finest native sons, Ronald W. (Ron) Lyford left his beloved Montana to “go to a more beautiful home in heaven” on March 8, 2017, at his home while surrounded by his family; he was 86.

Bobbi Jo Bernau, 41

Bobbi Jo Bernau, age 41, was born March 26, 1975, to Allen and Linda Bernau in Kalispell. BJ passed away March 8, 2017, after a courageous three-year battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.

Paul Henry Crosby, 82

Paul Henry Crosby, 82, of Kalispell, passed away on Wednesday, March 8, at his home.

James Gray Edmiston, 94

James Gray Edmiston, 94, passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2017, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Libertarians pick Inverness rancher for congressional race

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana's Libertarian Party picked Mark Wicks to be its candidate in the May 25 special election, finalizing the slate to fill the state's vacant congressional seat.

Veterans faced health referral delays nearly half the time

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana military veterans who were referred to health specialists in 2015 faced delays in getting appointments or receiving needed medical services nearly half the time, and those delays may have harmed four patients, according to a report released Friday.

Burton and Charlebois

Dennis and Jeannette Burton of Kalispell, together with Todd and Mary Charlebois of Kalispell, announce the engagement of their children, Ashlee Burton and Dillon Charlebois.

Planning board to consider Core Area rezone

A proposal to rezone properties in the heart of Kalispell will be up for discussion and public comment at the Kalispell City Planning Board meeting Tuesday.

High-tech companies reach landmark revenue

High-tech businesses in Montana reached a landmark revenue of more than $1 billion in 2016, thanks in part to the success of a number of local companies.

Going into the closet ... and coming out

My daughter Heather’s old bedroom was transformed into a guest room years ago, but her closet had remained untouched, except to pile more stuff on top of so many layers of stuff that nothing short of an archaeological dig was going to uncover the remains.

Timeless tradition

The Shooting Star Saddlery is only 2 miles from the highway, but seems much farther.

Extra 'favors' affecting other businesses

A man called the Kalispell Police Department to report that he had heard a local massage therapy business was offering extra “favors.” He was concerned that the illicit activities were affecting other businesses in town.

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Robert Much from the Native American Development Corp. will conduct a government contracting 101 workshop from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, at the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes computer training room in the lower level of the Old Tribal Complex in Pablo.

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Robert Much from the Native American Development Corp. will conduct a government contracting 101 workshop from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, at the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes computer training room in the lower level of the Old Tribal Complex in Pablo.

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Robert Much from the Native American Development Corp. will conduct a government contracting 101 workshop from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 21, at the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes computer training room in the lower level of the Old Tribal Complex in Pablo.

Acclaimed paleontologist Jack Horner talks dinosaur DNA and 'Jurassic Park'

More than 100 people showed up to hear renowned dinosaur expert Jack Horner speak during the Dino-Mite Fun Day on Saturday.

Hill 3rd in 5,000-meter run at Nationals Indoor meet

NEW YORK — Glacier High School distance runner Annie Hill finished third in the girls 5,000-meter run on Friday at the New Balance Nationals Indoor 2017 Track and Field Meet at the New Balance Armory.

State A Basketball Polson slips by Hamilton, 51-45

BUTTE — Polson stayed alive in Class A state boys basketball tournament action Friday afternoon with a 51-45 loser-out victory over Hamilton at the Butte Civic Center.

State AA Basketball Glacier outslugs Skyview

By JOSEPH TERRY

James J. Stiller, 53

James J. Stiller passed away peacefully March 5, 2017, in his home in Martin City at the age of 53, after an incredibly brave bought with cancer.

Convicted rapist returns to court

A rapist from Coram convicted in 1997 returned to court Friday following new reports of multiple parole violations.

Man finds comfort on bathroom floor

A man was allegedly found lying on the floor between the stalls of a store bathroom, refusing to get up or leave. The person who found him told the Kalispell Police Department he believed the man was intoxicated and promised to guard the bathroom until authorities arrived.

Man blames bear attack for parole violation

A Great Falls man is claiming a grizzly bear attack last summer led to him violating his parole.

Researching the 'why' and 'how'

Third- through 12th-grade students used scientific method and a little ingenuity to answer the questions “why” and “how?”

Providers say repeal could impact mental-health services

As Congress

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With the election of our new president, I hope that this country returns to some degree of normalcy. We still have freedoms worth fighting for and, if need be, dying for. I hope that Americans can realize and appreciate this fact.

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With the election of our new president, I hope that this country returns to some degree of normalcy. We still have freedoms worth fighting for and, if need be, dying for. I hope that Americans can realize and appreciate this fact.

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The Daily Inter Lake

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The Daily Inter Lake

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The Daily Inter Lake

Board splits decision on short-term rental regs

The Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday came to an impasse about whether to regulate short-term rental housing, voting 4-4 on a proposed zoning amendment.

911 Center considers new call and text system

The Flathead Emergency Communications Center Board is considering installing a new call-handling system that would give callers options when lines are busy and offers the addition of a text-to-911 service.

Lawmakers push forward bill on substance abuse treatment

Lawmakers kept alive a bill this week that its supporters say would expand access to chemical dependency treatment facilities in Montana.

Woman yelling for help found injured

Someone called Flathead County Sheriff’s Officers after they reportedly heard a woman screaming for help for roughly 10 minutes. When officers arrived, the woman was injured and the man who allegedly harmed her was gone.

James Douglas 'Doug' Wendt, 89

Doug passed away March 3, 2017.

Glacier boys bound into AA basketball state semis

GREAT FALLS — The Glacier boys pushed their way into the semifinals at the Class AA state basketball tournament on Thursday at Four Seasons Arena, shutting down Billings West in the third quarter on the way to a 56-49 opening round victory.

Travis Cody Traeger, 44

Travis Traeger, one of the most truly beautiful and loving souls to grace this world, “was called home” on Dec. 27, 2016. Travis was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer earlier in the year. Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is vicious and ruthless in its attack; fewer than nine percent of patients will survive five years after being diagnosed. Although the odds were stacked heavily against him, Travis refused to give up and persevered valiantly against his attacker, even when going through daily regimens that would have made the rest of us mere mortals cry, “No more! No more!” long before.

Brock Osweiler traded to Cleveland Browns

The Browns made a trade Thursday to take on Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler’s $16 million salary and pick up a 2018 second-round draft pick, a person familiar with the move confirmed.

County gets $1 million gift for new jail

An anonymous donor has given $1 million to Flathead County to help pay for a new county jail.

Zinke to visit Glacier, address Montana Legislature

BILLINGS (AP) — Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke in coming days will visit Glacier National Park to talk about the park system’s multi-billion-dollar maintenance backlog and later address a joint session of the Montana Legislature.

Kalispell showcase opens Friday

Kenneth Yarus, Nate Closson, Tyler Murphy and Richie Carter will be holding an evening of fine art Friday, March 10 in the ballroom above Sassafras in downtown Kalispell from 6 to 10 p.m. The show will also be open Saturday from 3 to 8 p.m.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 9

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Traversing the Lower Valley is a trip through Montana’s existential crisis.

Special election will be grueling affair

Buckle up. The next three months of political campaigning promise to be a rollercoaster ride.

1950s dance band hits Kalispell Senior Center

A new 1950s show band formed by local guitarist Steve Eckels, Zino & the Bel Aires will perform Saturday, March 18 from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Kalispell Senior Center.

Alina Kiryayeva

Ukranian-born Alina Kiryayeva will perform a program of classic piano favorites at Flathead High School on Thursday, March 23 at 7:30 p.m.

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I am an 89-year-old widow and wish to ask our legislators to vote no on bill HB 536. I have lived in two different assisted-care facilities and have witnessed the long terminal struggle of the elderly I live with. Life drags on at terrible expense to the family and pain to the elderly and the terminally ill.

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I am an 89-year-old widow and wish to ask our legislators to vote no on bill HB 536. I have lived in two different assisted-care facilities and have witnessed the long terminal struggle of the elderly I live with. Life drags on at terrible expense to the family and pain to the elderly and the terminally ill.

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Traversing the Lower Valley is a trip through Montana’s existential crisis.

'Friday Knight Fever' opens March 17 in Bigfork

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theater invites the Flathead Valley to its third musical production of the 2016-2017 season, “Friday Knight Fever,” a musical comedy tribute to the 70s, beginning Saturday, March 17 and running for two weekends.

Old guns

Imagine the drama!

Dino-Mite fun Saturday in Bigfork

Renowned dinosaur expert Jack Horner will host a question-and-answer session and be part of a screening of the iconic film he consulted on during the first-ever Dino-Mite Fun Day, Saturday in Bigfork.

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THURSDAY, MARCH 9

Nine from Northwest going to Badlands Bowl

After seeing a ton of success on the field this fall, nine local seniors will suit up for the Badlands Bowl this summer in Miles City.

Polson boys look for upset at Class A tourney in Butte

Polson will look to win its first boys basketball championship since 1998 this weekend, when it tips off at the Class A state tournament at the Butte Civic Center.

Glacier, Flathead enter state tourney in top form

There is a clear front runner as the Class AA girls travel to Great Falls to kick off the state basketball tournament, yet the boys tournament looks to be as wide open as ever when the event kicks off this morning at the Four Seasons Arena.

Conferences bursting their own bubbles

It happens every year around this time.

Montana officials debate House Republicans' health-care proposal

U.S. House Republicans this week released a draft plan to unthread former President Barack Obama’s health-care law and restructure Medicaid for low-income people. As politicians take their stances on the legislation, it’s unclear how — or if — it will unfold and what it could mean for Montanans.

Good home sought for inseparable pair

Baby and Patches are quite the pair, and a bit of an odd couple.

Woman charged in Woods Bay robbery

A Bigfork woman was arrested Tuesday morning in connection with the robbery of a bar in Woods Bay that occurred on Jan. 29.

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Smith Valley bond ballots go out

Ballots will be mailed out today on a $6 million bond issue to fund expansion and renovation of Smith Valley School and purchasing land.

Barry 'Chip' Beste, 77

Barry “Chip” Beste, 77, of Bigfork, “went to be with Jesus” March 6, 2017.

Water main breaks impact Lakeside schools

A water main break near Lakeside Elementary caused minor inconveniences Monday and Tuesday.

Snowstorm could dump 8-12 inches on Flathead

Another round of heavy snow is expected to impact Northwest Montana on Thursday and Friday, dumping an additional 8 to 12 inches on the Flathead Valley and more than 2 feet in the mountains.

Mountain lion visits Marion home

A Pleasant Valley Road resident in Marion told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office there had been a mountain lion visiting her porch for two days. The woman also stated she had gotten a call from the nearby school saying there was a mountain lion in the area and to pick up her children after school.

FVCC braces for state cutbacks

Montana’s community colleges are grappling with the possibility of losing several million dollars as lawmakers work to balance the state budget. Since Flathead Valley Community College is the largest school in the mix, the college could experience as much as a $2 million hit over two years.

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County may demolish moldy building near landfill

The Flathead County Solid Waste District board is pondering what to do with a former pawn-shop building and accompanying 1.8 acres the county purchased in 2015 for $520,000.

Gov. Bullock addresses prescription drug safety

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock described the climb of prescription drug abuse in the state from a podium in the middle of Walgreens in Kalispell on Monday afternoon.

Man arrested for DUI after truck flies into dumpster

An errant pickup truck left U.S. 93 at Hutton Ranch Plaza on Sunday night and became airborne at the Walmart turnoff, ending up on top of a garbage bin, but fortunately with no one seriously injured.

Planning Board mulls short-term rental proposal

The Flathead County Planning Board is poised to tackle two big issues at its meeting on Wednesday — short-term rental regulations and the South Whitefish Corridor Plan.

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My heart just about stopped when I heard the Montana Legislature is proposing to cut $93.4 million from the Department of Health and Human Services over the next two years.

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My heart just about stopped when I heard the Montana Legislature is proposing to cut $93.4 million from the Department of Health and Human Services over the next two years.

Columbia Falls girls have three named to Class A All-State team

Columbia Falls seniors Kiara Burlage and Cydney Finberg and junior Dani Douglas each garnered all-state honors when the team of the top girls basketball players in Class A was released on Tuesday. Wildkats coach Cary Finberg was named coach of the year.

Don B. Torgerson, 96

Don B. Torgerson, 96, formerly of Bigfork, passed away on Wednesday, March 1, 2017, in Spokane, where he has been living at Orchard Crest Retirement Community in Spokane Valley for the past five years.

Traffic alert issued for Whitefish water repair

Traffic on Spokane Avenue in Whitefish will be hampered Tuesday as the Public Works Department fixes a water leak at the intersection of Spokane Avenue and East Ninth Street.

State's high-tech hits $1 billion economic milestone

High-tech companies are an important component of Montana’s economy, generating more than $1 billion in revenues in 2016 and growing at rates seven times faster than the statewide economy, according to a recent study conducted by the University of Montana Bureau of Business and Economic Research.

New green-box garbage site holiday closures approved

Green-box garbage collection sites throughout Flathead County will be closed on four additional holidays from now on, the county Solid Waste District board decided last week.

GOP delegates pick Gianforte as House candidate

HELENA — Technology entrepreneur Greg Gianforte and musician Rob Quist will square off in a special election to fill the Montana U.S. House seat left vacant by Ryan Zinke’s departure to become President Donald Trump’s interior secretary.

Spring load limits to take effect Wednesday

Spring load limits for trucks have been set by the Flathead County commissioners and are scheduled to take effect Wednesday.

Montana Democrats pick Quist to run for congressional seat

HELENA — Musician and political novice Rob Quist on Sunday captured the Democratic nomination for the May 25 special election to fill the state’s only congressional seat.

All-tourney honors awarded to five Columbia Falls girls

Five members of the Class A state championship Columbia Falls girls basketball team have received all-tournament honors in voting by the media and tournament officials.

Whitefish plans to double invasive species budget

The city of Whitefish plans to more than double the amount of money it will spend in the coming year for the city’s aquatic invasive species management program.

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Quist wins Democratic nomination for U.S. House on fourth ballot

By BOBBY CAINA CALVAN

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Recently, our Bigfork 24-hour, free to the community, green boxes were closed. The county decided we’d all be better off and happier with a site we’d have to pay additional taxes for, which would have hours limited to 8-5. This is inconvenient for MANY working people.

Improved air service is a win for valley

The Flathead Valley got good news earlier this week when United Airlines announced daily round-trip summer service from San Francisco to Glacier Park International Airport starting July 1.

Short-term rentals need to be restricted

Do you want to see a steady stream of vacation rentals in your neighborhood?

Fund Medicaid program to benefit seniors

In 1957, a group of concerned citizens in the Flathead Valley founded “The Lutheran Home” to provide a comfortable place for local seniors to live during their golden years. Sixty years later, The Lutheran Home has evolved and expanded to become Immanuel Lutheran Communities, but our mission is the same: to provide a safe, comfortable place for seniors to live — especially those seniors who have outlived their financial resources and cannot afford care for themselves.

Trump simply must be stronger than Obama

Three years ago last month, violent protests were climaxing in Ukraine as a clarion for regime change and social reforms. In February of 2014, Ukrainians gathered by the hundreds of thousands under the shadow of the monument to Ukraine’s fledgling independence to fight for further European integration and to unseat President Viktor Yanukovych and his crooked government.

Saddle up, candidates!

A brief history of Montana’s special congressional elections

State needs to try its own Earned Income Tax Credit

United Way focuses on the basic building blocks of a good quality of life: education, income and health. It isn’t often that we have the chance to support public policy that can address all three.

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Recently, our Bigfork 24-hour, free to the community, green boxes were closed. The county decided we’d all be better off and happier with a site we’d have to pay additional taxes for, which would have hours limited to 8-5. This is inconvenient for MANY working people.

Learning about race from the good folks of the Flathead

It’s been an unexpected pleasure to get to do part of the reporting on the Inter Lake’s series on black history in the Flathead, and as we wind up the series today, I wanted to reflect on some of what we learned.

House passes bill addressing Lincoln County election mishap

In an attempt to allow Lincoln County to reverse an improperly sanctioned ballot initiative that established nonpartisan local elections, a state lawmaker from Eureka is pushing a bill that would temporarily give the county authority to bring its elections into compliance with state law.

Deadly flu outbreak troubles health officials

Influenza or norovirus outbreaks occurred in five long-term care or assisted-living facilities in Flathead County in January, according to health officials. During that time, 104 people were infected and three people died of a flu-related illness.

Blacklight illuminates suspicious scene

A caller on Treeline Road reportedly found a blacklight after arriving at an apartment that was expected to be empty. Using the blacklight, the callers could see spots on the wall and on the carpet that they believed to be blood. They requested that officers with Kalispell Police Department walk through the apartment to make sure it was safe.

Julie Ester Graham, 50

Julie Ester Graham, age 50, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 2, 2017, at her home comforted by her family, Little Dog and Bella.

Betty Jo Smith Nock, 94

Betty Jo Smith Nock, 94, left this world Monday evening, Feb. 20, 2017, with her daughters, Royann, Elaine and Carole by her side.

Robert Theodore Orsua, 65

On Feb. 20, 2017, Captain Bob (Robert Theodore Orsua) lost his short battle with pancreatic cancer, “and began his final and most glorious charter, into heaven.” Bob was 65 years old and lived with his beloved wife, Lynn Orsua, in Kalispell.

Seed enthusiasts discuss solutions to changing climates

The challenges of a changing climate can also bring new opportunities for a longer growing season in the Flathead Valley and the potential for self-sustainability, said community members who attended Saturday’s Free the Seeds! Seed and Start Fair at Flathead Valley Community College.

Resort development planned for Whitefish Lake

Early plans have emerged for a new resort and residential development located on mostly undeveloped land near Big Mountain Road in Whitefish.

U.S. 2 traffic could get ugly this summer

Columbia Falls could be a tough place to drive through this summer. The Montana Department of Transportation plans to mill and resurface U.S. 2 through the city limits from North Hilltop to the Flathead River Bridge.

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TODay

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'Iconic' business leader Brent Hall dies

Longtime Kalispell businessman and community leader Brent Hall of Lakeside died Friday morning at Kalispell Regional Healthcare. He was 76.

Flathead drops state hockey tourney battle with Butte tte

The Daily Inter Lake

Krown the 'Kats

By JOSEPH TERRY

Flathead Fusion falls in pool-play opener at state hockey tourney

WHITEFISH — Four power-play goals by four different players helped the Missoula Bruins coast to a 6-0 victory over the Flathead Fusion on Friday afternoon in first-round pool-play action at the Montana Amateur Hockey Association high school A division state tournament at the Stumptown Ice Den.

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Voisin 4th in World Cup slopestyle finals

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Voisin 4th in World Cup slopestyle finals

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Voisin 4th in World Cup slopestyle finals

Wildkats back in Class A state finals

BUTTE — Columbia Falls found some adversity and responded with an 11-0 run to hold off Havre in a 55-42 victory in the semifinals of the Class A state girls basketball tournament on Friday night at Butte Civic Center.

Melting snow causes damage at Conrad Mansion

The Conrad Mansion Museum’s 111-year-old “wedding dress,” a handful of shoes and purses, and the second-floor closet they were housed in have all been water-damaged by melted ice and snow caused by ice dams on the historic building’s north roof.

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The Flathead Valley Gospel Music Associtaion’s annual Ken Dutter Home Grown Concert is Friday, March 10 at 7 p.m. The free concert is in its 18th year and will be held at Family Life Christian Church, 1075 Foys Lake Road in Kalispell. Admission is free.

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The Flathead Valley Gospel Music Associtaion’s annual Ken Dutter Home Grown Concert is Friday, March 10 at 7 p.m. The free concert is in its 18th year and will be held at Family Life Christian Church, 1075 Foys Lake Road in Kalispell. Admission is free.

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The Flathead Valley Gospel Music Associtaion’s annual Ken Dutter Home Grown Concert is Friday, March 10 at 7 p.m. The free concert is in its 18th year and will be held at Family Life Christian Church, 1075 Foys Lake Road in Kalispell. Admission is free.

Loud-mouth guest gets the boot

A good Samaritan changed his mind about offering lodging to a homeless woman he allegedly picked up when she refused to “be quiet and go to sleep.” After asking the woman to leave multiple times, she finally went on her way before officers could respond.

Great Falls police call off search for wanted Kalispell man

The Great Falls Police Department has called off its search for a wanted Kalispell man who remains at large and is believed to be armed and dangerous.

Woman faces felony charges for animal cruelty

A Creston woman accused of hoarding dozens of dogs in the poor living conditions of her home faces multiple charges of animal cruelty.

Sports booster scam targets Whitefish

Local businesses in Whitefish are reportedly losing money to scammers claiming to be affiliated with Whitefish High School and selling ad space on a fictional sports poster.

Railroad hauls good jobs to valley

Some of the best jobs in the Flathead Valley have always been found on the railroad — until two years ago, that is. That’s when conditions on the Hi-Line went south, and BNSF Railway pulled the plug on new jobs.

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I oppose tax credits for private schools. Owning property in a county means paying property tax to support the county infrastructure. This includes funding public schools so all young people have a good education to help them become law-abiding citizens, employable and able to participate in elections. If we grant tax credits to people who don’t want to use public services such as schools, there will be no end to it. Suppose I decide to live in the woods and not own a car. Should I receive a tax credit for not using our roads and streets? Of course not. Schools are no different.

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I oppose tax credits for private schools. Owning property in a county means paying property tax to support the county infrastructure. This includes funding public schools so all young people have a good education to help them become law-abiding citizens, employable and able to participate in elections. If we grant tax credits to people who don’t want to use public services such as schools, there will be no end to it. Suppose I decide to live in the woods and not own a car. Should I receive a tax credit for not using our roads and streets? Of course not. Schools are no different.

State high school boys hockey tourney at Stumptown Ice Den

The Daily Inter Lake

Glacier girls spill Flathead 51-43

Glacier rode the scoring of senior Nikki Krueger in the first half en route to a 51-43 victory over rival Flathead in a Western AA girls basketball state tournament play-in game on Thursday evening at Flathead High School.

Braves bounce Bengals, 57-50

Flathead cashed in at the free-throw line in the fourth quarter to pull out a 57-50 Western AA division boys basketball state tournament play-in game Thursday evening at Flathead High School.

New Interior Secretary Zinke reverses lead-ammunition ban

WASHINGTON (AP) — On his first full day in office, Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke issued an order Thursday reversing a last-minute action by the Obama administration to ban lead ammunition and fish tackle used on national wildlife refuges.

Daniel Cox, 38

Daniel Cox, 38, of Kalispell, passed away on Feb. 19, 2017, while in San Diego seeking medical treatment.

Six students qualify for state geography bee

Six area geography aficionados have qualified to compete at the Montana National Geographic Bee competition March 31 at the University of Montana.

Wildkats roll by Laurel in 1st round

By JOSEPH TERRY

Gianforte says he can secure GOP nomination for Zinke's seat

HELENA (AP) — Technology entrepreneur Greg Gianforte says he has commitments from enough delegates to secure the Republican nomination for Ryan Zinke’s former seat in the U.S. House, but another Montana contender said Thursday he doesn’t believe Gianforte has the votes locked down.

Zinke ponies up to work at first day in office

WASHINGTON (AP) — Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke arrived on horseback for his first day of work Thursday.

Contemporary Middle Eastern band Niyaz headed to Whitefish

The Whitefish Theatre Co. will host Niyaz, a quintet known for its fusion of traditional and contemporary Middle Eastern music, Friday, March 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center.

ATP Kids spring session features 'Sister Act'

ATP Kids, the educational outreach program offered by Whitefish’s Alpine Theatre Co., is auditioning for the stage production of the hit movie “Sister Act,” Monday, March 6 at 4 p.m. at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

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The four women sat around a table on a chilly Montana morning, sipping coffee and sharing stories of how each one came to be at this particular table on this particular day.

Best of Telluride MountainFilm Festival touring Montana

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation is bringing “MountainFilm on Tour,” a traveling collection of films from the Telluride MountainFilm Festival, to the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish on Thursday, March 9.

'On the Shoulders of Giants' premiere March 11 in Whitefish

On the Shoulders of Giants Film Premiere – Celebrating 40 Years of Conservation

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The four women sat around a table on a chilly Montana morning, sipping coffee and sharing stories of how each one came to be at this particular table on this particular day.

Columbia Falls seeks 1st title since 1983

The Columbia Falls girls basketball team (20-1) enters this year’s Class A state tournament in Butte with the best record in the state, a spot that is familiar the last few seasons.

Slaying the title dragon

Columbia Falls has been here before.

ONE MORE TIME

If the third matchup between the Flathead and Glacier girls is anything like the first two, local high school basketball fans should be in for a treat.

Art mobile makes stop at Creston School

Over long stretches of road, past mountains, lakes and ranches, the Art Mobile of Montana makes its way carrying fine art work to rural schools.

'Shorty' Stockard returns to call Kalispell home once again

William “Shorty” Stockard seems surprised when one marvels at his encyclopedic recall of names and dates involving the black community in Kalispell’s earlier decades.

LaVerne Grant, 95

LaVerne Grant, 95, of Bigfork, died Feb. 25, 2017 in Bigfork.

Robert Theodore Orsua, 65

On Feb. 20, 2017, Captain Bob (Robert Theodore Orsua) lost his short battle with pancreatic cancer, “and began his final and most glorious charter, into heaven.” Bob was 65 years old and lived with his beloved wife, Lynn Orsua, in Kalispell.

Dorothy Henrietta Sume McFadyean, 99

Dorothy Henrietta Sume McFadyean, 99, formerly of Eureka, died on Monday, Feb. 27, 2017, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Woman fears painter danger

A woman called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report a strange man knocking on her door. The woman claimed she did not recognize the man and would not answer her door. The woman later realized that she had hired the man to paint her house and told authorities not to bother responding.

Zinke confirmed as Interior secretary

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former Montana Rep. Ryan Zinke was sworn in Wednesday as secretary of the Interior Department, assuming oversight of 400 million acres of public land, mostly in the West.

Renowned jazz musician was consummate entertainer

Nina Russell loved to tell the story of how she first met legendary jazz pianist Duke Ellington at a Chicago nightclub.