Ellington

Geraldine 'Gerry' Smith, 68

Geraldine “Gerry” Smith, 68, passed away at her home in Marion on May 23, 2017.

David Lee Cochrane, 58

Columbia Falls lost one of their beloved residents on May 26, 2017. Born in Harrison Township, Michigan, on March 20, 1959, David Lee Cochrane passed peacefully at home surrounded by his devoted family and close friends. Dave fought a courageous battle with mantle cell lymphoma for 13 years.

Woman killed in Swan Highway crash ID'd

A woman was killed in a one-vehicle crash on Highway 83 in Lake County on Tuesday around noon after she lost control of her SUV.

In a great year, one moment sticks out

I was asked a simple question on the radio this week.

Bennett reflects on sterling class

With graduation this weekend, it is always a time of reflection as a flood of memories come back. I spoke to Glacier Wolfpack head football coach Grady Bennett about graduation and how the offseason is going as they prepare for the 2017 season.

State moves to increase access to drug overdose medication

More people than ever are dying from opioid drug overdoses in the United States, according to the

Bigfork senior finds family, future after addiction

[Editor’s note: This is the fourth in a weeklong series recognizing noteworthy graduates from the Class of 2017. This year’s series highlights “the road less traveled,” students who are taking on unique experiences or facing unexpected turns in reaching his or her destination in life.]

Wesley 'Frenchy' French, 64

Wesley French sadly passed from our lives on May 23, 2017.

Edward W. Hedstrom, 94

Edward W. Hedstrom, 94, passed away from natural causes at Peace Hospice, Great Falls, on May 23, 2017, surrounded by his loving family.

Young grizzly bear captured near Fortine and relocated

KALISPELL (AP) — A 3-year-old male grizzly bear that had been feeding in yards and pastures in northwestern Montana was captured and released in the Spotted Bear River drainage, just southeast of the southern tip of Hungry Horse Reservoir.

Early grad looks forward to future

[Editor’s note: This is the third in a weeklong series recognizing noteworthy graduates from the Class of 2017. This year’s series highlights “the road less traveled,” students who are taking on unique experiences or facing unexpected turns in reaching his or her destination in life.]

Leading with 'quiet grace'

[Editor’s note: This is the second in a weeklong series recognizing noteworthy graduates from the Class of 2017. This year’s series highlights “the road less traveled,” students who are taking on unique experiences or facing unexpected turns in reaching his or her destination in life.]

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- Ronan Memorial Day Parade, 10 a.m. beginning behind St. Luke Hospital. Public invited. Call Rich, 847-331-5518.

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- Ronan Memorial Day Parade, 10 a.m. beginning behind St. Luke Hospital. Public invited. Call Rich, 847-331-5518.

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- Ronan Memorial Day Parade, 10 a.m. beginning behind St. Luke Hospital. Public invited. Call Rich, 847-331-5518.

Replica of Vietnam Memorial coming to Kalispell

Hundreds of veterans on motorcycles traveled a thousand miles to reach Washington D.C. to touch the names of those lost in Vietnam. For one Montana man, the pilgrimage to the Vietnam Memorial Wall was the first time he felt understood since he had served decades before.

A soldier's final silence ...

and a grandson’s struggle to understand

Life’s timing can be uncanny. Shortly after my grandfather passed away, I first saw the “Band of Brothers” miniseries, a story of men changed by their experiences, friendships, suffering, and the horrors of war. Through the show I came to see my grandfather in a different light. There was a story behind his service, but apart from the bits and pieces I picked up over the years, that story is lost forever.

Extremism casts shadow over Montana

Recently, President Trump signed an executive order instructing Secretary Ryan Zinke to review dozens of national monuments with an eye towards either shrinking the monuments or eliminating them altogether. The order involves all monuments designated in the last 21 years that are larger than 100,000 acres or those that Secretary Zinke decides were designated without enough local input.

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The Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Project is a great example of Montana’s vision for collaborative conservation. This project is over a decade in the making and has the support of diverse groups including conservationists, snowmobilers, mountain bikers, timber companies and equestrians. The Blackfoot Clearwater Project would designate the Otatsy and Spread Mountain Recreation Management Areas for snowmobile and mountain biking access, respectively, in addition to over 75,000 acres of wilderness to the Bob Marshall, Scapegoat and Mission Mountain wilderness areas.

Instrastructure fight shows weaknesses of system

The most significant infrastructure bill in over a quarter of a century was passed by the 2017 legislative session. It was the six-cent increase in motor fuel taxes which will make it possible for Montana to continue to match federal dollars for highway maintenance and construction at a ratio of seven federal dollars to one Montana dollar.

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The Blackfoot Clearwater Stewardship Project is a great example of Montana’s vision for collaborative conservation. This project is over a decade in the making and has the support of diverse groups including conservationists, snowmobilers, mountain bikers, timber companies and equestrians. The Blackfoot Clearwater Project would designate the Otatsy and Spread Mountain Recreation Management Areas for snowmobile and mountain biking access, respectively, in addition to over 75,000 acres of wilderness to the Bob Marshall, Scapegoat and Mission Mountain wilderness areas.

Does Whitefish really want low-income housing?

Citing high and constantly rising housing costs, the cabal that runs Whitefish frequently and vocally proclaims its intent to promote construction of low-cost housing in Whitefish, but never seems quite willing to do anything significant to accomplish it. In fact, recently it sabotaged and then killed an effort to bring affordable workforce housing to the city.

If only one voice is allowed, that's not free speech

One of the great pleasures of living in America is being able to speak one’s mind without fear of censorship or punishment. The First Amendment grants everyone an equal opportunity to voice a biased opinion.

Gianforte's sin and the first stone

We saw (or heard) one Greg Gianforte on Wednesday night when he reacted with violence to the questioning of a reporter on the eve of the special congressional election.

Libby 2nd in B-C softball

The Daily Inter Lake

Locals qualify for NCAA track nationals

AUSTIN, Texas — Gonzaga senior Troy Fraley continued his dominance of the steeplechase, finishing the 3,000-meter race with the fastest time at the NCAA West Regional this weekend on the campus of the University of Texas to advance to the national championships on June 7-10 in Eugene, Oregon.

Bigfork girls win Class B track title

BUTTE — The Bigfork girls, driven by juniors Haile Norred and Bryn Morley, destroyed the field at the Class B state track meet, winning the first team state title for the Valkyries in 15 years.

'Star Wars' and me: 40 years of living with the Force

An anniversary passed without much notice last week, and I suppose with all the mayhem and madness, it is understandable that few people thought about the importance of May 25, 1977 — the date when the Force first awakened and a new era began.

Volunteers preserve Glacier Park's legacy

While Memorial Day is, first and foremost, a day to honor those who gave their lives in defense of our country, Americans also have traditionally spent the long holiday weekend reconnecting with family and friends at campouts, backyard barbecues and recreating on our public lands.

More details emerge in ousted police chief's lawsuit

More details have surfaced in the case of ousted Columbia Falls police chief Dave Perry.

Greenhouse owner trademarks 'flower truck'

In 2008, local greenhouse owner Angie Olsen purchased a rusted, 1950s-era Ford truck at an antique tractor show.

Woman followed from bank by masked man

A woman called Kalispell Police to report that a man with a mesh black material over his face had been following her in a truck. The man had allegedly followed her from the bank to Seventh Avenue West. She said the man had been swerving and was driving “erratic and fast.”

Donald Louis Fry, 89

Donald Louis Fry passed away April 20, 2017, at the age of 89.

John E. Alton, 88

Kalispell lost one of its lifelong residents May 23, 2017. John E. Alton “joined his wife, Donna, in heaven” where we are all sure his grand entrance was entertaining and flamboyant. He loved to joke and make people smile.

Salvatore B. DeAngelo, 81

Salvatore B. DeAngelo, 81, of Columbia Falls, died peacefully at home in his beloved Montana on May 25, 2017, after a courageous battle with acute myeloid leukemia.

Robert Dutton, 77

Robert Dutton, 77, of Bigfork, passed peacefully at home on May 24, 2017.

Edward Leroy Lapp, 90

Edward Leroy Lapp, 90, of Kalispell, passed away May 24, 2017, in Kalispell.

Gerald 'Jerry' Hays Goodin, 77

Gerald “Jerry” Hays Goodin, 77, passed away on May 21, 2017, at home in the comforting presence of his wife “and was received into the arms of his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.”

Andrew Dalimata, 35

Andrew Dalimata was born in Whitefish on a typical, dreary morning of Nov. 20, 1981. He was the second of seven children and a third-generation Montanan who loved God, his family and his dogs. He grew up on the family ranch by West Glacier and enjoyed many a shenanigan with his older brother, Anthony, and a variety of cousins, like Robert and Matt.

Libby falls to Florence in B-C state softball semis

The Daily Inter Lake

Glacier's Hill, Krueger win at record-setting State AA track

BUTTE — The Glacier girls got off to a good start on a record-setting first day at the Class AA state track and field meet on Friday at Charlie Merrifield Track.

Polson's Carlyle 2nd in singles

Polson’s Cassie Carlyle showed plenty of grit, courage and competitiveness in Friday’s girls singles championship match with Ceeara Staiger of Glendive at the Class A state tennis tournament.

Bigfork hosts motorcycle memorial ride, poker run

Today, Bigfork is expecting more than 100 people on motorcycles to roll through town as a tribute to friends lost in a car crash and as a reason to fundraise for local veterans.

Flathead Forest opens all campgrounds

All Flathead National Forest campgrounds are scheduled to be open by the Memorial Day weekend.

Flathead student finds a way to fly

[Editor’s note: This is the first in a weeklong series recognizing noteworthy graduates from the Class of 2017. This year’s series highlights “the road less traveled,” students who are taking on unique experiences or facing unexpected turns in reaching his or her destination in life.]

'Hamburglar' posse strikes Evergreen drive-thru

A group of belligerent people reportedly stole a woman’s food in the drive-thru of a fast food restaurant in Evergreen, according to a Flathead Sheriff’s report. The people were allegedly calling the woman names and cursing at her. The woman was not happy, but the restaurant gave her more food.

Geraldine 'Gerry' Smith, 68

Geraldine “Gerry” Smith, 68, passed away at her home in Marion on May 23, 2017.

GOP holds onto Montana seat, yet both parties optimistic

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans and Democrats found cause for optimism Friday even as the GOP candidate, facing last-minute assault charges, held onto Montana’s sole House seat.

Glacier Park facilities open for Memorial weekend

Many services and facilities in Glacier National Park will be open for Memorial Day weekend.

Body cams are welcome addition

As of this week, all Kalispell police officers will be equipped with one of the department’s new body cameras.

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As a freshman legislator at the 65th Montana legislative session, I learned a great deal about state politics. It was a crash course in the legislative process but also on how “insider politics” are played. To my surprise there were some unexpected positives and negatives.

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As a freshman legislator at the 65th Montana legislative session, I learned a great deal about state politics. It was a crash course in the legislative process but also on how “insider politics” are played. To my surprise there were some unexpected positives and negatives.

Myrt Whitman Webb Jr., 74

Myrt Whitman Webb Jr., 74, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2017, at his home in Columbia Falls.

Don't take candy from strangers

A mother told Kalispell Police that her 8-year-old son was approached by a man offering candy while she was in the restaurant bathroom with her baby. The woman reported that the man never talked to her and waited for her to leave the table before allegedly talking to the boy and telling him to come with him.

Memorial Day events across the valley

Military honors presented by United Veterans

Local panel offers thoughts on 'fake news'

The same day a new national

Pirates sail into 2nd day at State A

It was smooth sailing for Polson on the first day of the Class A state tennis tournament on Thursday at Flathead Valley Community College.

Softball Libby romps in B-C state tournament opener

FRENCHTOWN — Khalyn Hageness tossed a 2-hitter, tripled and drove in three runs while Abbey Ennenga and Madisen Monigold both homered as Libby crushed Great Falls Central 11-1 in first-round action at the Class B-C state softball tournament.

Gianforte declared winner in House race

BOZEMAN (AP) — Republican multimillionaire Greg Gianforte won Montana’s only U.S. House seat on Thursday despite being charged a day earlier with assault after witnesses said he grabbed a reporter by the neck and threw him to the ground.

Evergreen woman sentenced in murder case

On the one-year anniversary of the 2016 murder of Wade Rautio, an Evergreen woman initially charged in the homicide was sentenced Thursday to 40 years in prison with 20 suspended for a lesser charge of criminal distribution of dangerous drugs.

House GOP sticking with Montana candidate despite assault charge

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans stuck with their candidate in Montana’s special House race Thursday even though he was charged with misdemeanor assault after allegedly slamming a reporter to the ground.

Woman denies role in Old Steel Bridge homicide

A Kalispell woman has denied charges that she played a role in the murder of Anthony Andrew Walthers, who was allegedly pushed off the Old Steel Bridge last month.

Gianforte keeps low profile after assault charge

BOZEMAN (AP) — A Republican congressional candidate in Montana charged with shoving a reporter to the ground on the eve of a special election kept a low profile Thursday even as supporters prepared a hotel ballroom for a possible victory party.

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Sunny skies and a ride down the “Wild Mile” await competitors in this weekend’s Bigfork Whitewater Festival, one of the longest running annual events in the Flathead Valley.

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Gov. Bullock waited for the Legislature to adjourn and for the Quist/Gianforte campaign to end before imposing his draconian grab of fishing rights on over 50 rivers and streams. The Democrats erroneously claimed Gianforte blocked access to one fishing hole. Now the facts are that the Democrats led by Bullock are getting ready to seize the fishing rights to hundreds of miles of streams and rivers in Montana. The “Quiet Waters” plan is designed to keep the riff-raff and disabled vets from using the same waters multi-millionaires are spending big bucks upon which to have guided float trips.

'Cabaret: The Musical'

The final show of the 2016-17 season for the Whitefish Theatre Co., John Kander and Fred Ebb’s Tony Award-winning “Cabaret: The Musical,” opens the first weekend of June at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

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'Guns, Guns, Guns' in Polson

Polson’s Miracle of America Museum’s next free night at the museum is tonight at 6:30 p.m.

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Gov. Bullock waited for the Legislature to adjourn and for the Quist/Gianforte campaign to end before imposing his draconian grab of fishing rights on over 50 rivers and streams. The Democrats erroneously claimed Gianforte blocked access to one fishing hole. Now the facts are that the Democrats led by Bullock are getting ready to seize the fishing rights to hundreds of miles of streams and rivers in Montana. The “Quiet Waters” plan is designed to keep the riff-raff and disabled vets from using the same waters multi-millionaires are spending big bucks upon which to have guided float trips.

Collage Gallery opens new exhibit

Downtown Bigfork’s Collage Gallery of Fine Art, Antiques and Collectibles will open “Interpretations of Water Media” Friday with a free reception from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Diana Neville Knowles offering portrait painting workshop in Kalispell

Bigfork artist Diana Neville Knowles will be teaching a pastel portrait painting workshop at Hobby Lobby in Kalispell.

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Sunny skies and a ride down the “Wild Mile” await competitors in this weekend’s Bigfork Whitewater Festival, one of the longest running annual events in the Flathead Valley.

'Big Night Art Auction' to benefit FVCC

The Flathead Valley Community College art department will host the “Big Night Art Auction” June 9, a culinary event to benefit student scholarships for the Semester in Venice program and art studies.

Alpine Theatre Project's Broadway vets offering 'training camp'

Whitefish’s Alpine Theatre Project will hold a three-week “Broadway Summer Training Camp” for students in grades 5-12 later this summer, with placement auditions coming up on Sunday, June 4 at 2 p.m. at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

The Springs announces free outdoor concert series

The Springs at Whitefish, an assisted living facility, will host six free outdoor concerts this summer on the property’s lawn, just northeast of U.S. 93 and Montana 40.

Reporter alleges attack by Gianforte

HELENA (AP) — A reporter said the Republican candidate for Montana’s sole congressional seat body-slammed him Wednesday, the day before the polls close in the nationally watched special election.

Mary Alice Henderson, 80

Mary Alice Henderson, 80, passed away on May 20, 2017, in Kalispell.

Nucleus revival continues

Columbia Falls developer Mick Ruis has bought the Bandit Bar and plans on turning it into a sports bar and steakhouse.

Man gets 25 years for hitting cyclist

A Lincoln County man was sentenced May 15 to 25 years in prison for intentionally running over a Kalispell cyclist in his car in May 2016 in order to rob him.

Former C. Falls, Kalispell city manager Webb dies

Myrt W. Webb, the former city manager of both Columbia Falls and Kalispell, died at the age of 74 at his home in Columbia Falls on Tuesday.

Flathead High principal finalists interviewed

Four finalists will be interviewed for the Flathead High School principal position today followed by an invitation for the public to meet the candidates in the evening.

Whitefish working out 'bugs' of new siren

The 10 o’clock nighttime siren is back for all to hear in Whitefish, but the last thing residents expected Tuesday night was a blast that lasted for an entire minute.

Winds knock out power to thousands, topple trees

Around 30 power outages affecting more than 3,000 households resulted from high winds that swept across the Flathead Valley on Wednesday.

Bear trying to get doughnuts tears off Colorado car bumper

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — A bear with a sweet tooth ripped off the bumper of a car used to deliver doughnuts in Colorado then tried to claw its way through the trunk to get inside.

Brock should be confident

One reporter bristled at the notion that Brock Osweiler could be so confident.

Lakers finding form in early season

Baseball is in full swing and the Kalispell Lakers are doing their fair share of swinging on their opponents on the scoreboard. After a tough start to the spring, considering the weather we have had, we’re getting some great weather for firing up the grill for burgers and hot dogs and enjoying Lakers baseball. I spoke to the Lakers’ AA team skipper Ryan Malmin as we talked about the team and the season so far.

Polson, Whitefish look for tennis titles

The Whitefish girls enter as defending champs as the Polson boys try to retake the state crown when the Class A state tennis tournament kicks off at 8 a.m. today at the Flathead Valley Community College tennis courts.

Northwestern A aiming for 10th straight softball title

When it comes to softball, Polson coach Larry Smith can say he’s ‘been there, done that’ to practically everything associated with the game.

Local track athletes back in the medal hunt

Despite being one of the best prep runners in the country, Glacier junior Annie Hill has had a road block in front of the gold medal at Class AA state track and field meet the last two years.

Animal assists in harvesting garden

An unidentified domestic animal was reported for eating someone’s garden near Coot Center. The reporting person threatened to roast the animal if someone does not come get it, according to the Kalispell Police Department.

Heather Gosney Smith, 45

Heather Jo Gosney passed away Thursday, May 18, 2017, after a painful and debilitating illness “and was received by her Lord and Savior; ‘And the God of all grace who called you to his eternal glory in Christ. After you have suffered, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm, steadfast forever and ever.’” — 1st Peter 5:10

Police offer guidelines regarding transients

As the Flathead Valley enters the full swing of spring, the Whitefish Police Department has released a set of guidelines for reporting and interacting with the area’s transient population.

Bullock vetoes health transparency bill

Gov. Steve Bullock has vetoed the third bill in a series of Republican lawmakers’ attempts to overhaul how Montana residents can access and pay for health care.

$15.8M bond issue may go before voters this fall

A $15.8 million bond issue may be put before Somers-Lakeside residents in the fall to renovate an aging Somers Middle School.

In Montana, miles from D.C., there's no clamor to impeach

PHILIPSBURG — Ed Lord and Jim Jenner are friends of long standing who’ve managed to stay close over the years despite their political differences.

Hundreds honor sheriff's deputy killed in line of duty

BELGRADE, Mont. (AP) — A Montana sheriff's deputy who was killed in the line of duty last week was remembered as a family man, a man of faith and a dedicated public servant who could be tough when he needed to be but still played dolls with his daughter.

Wind advisory issued for Flathead Lake

Exceptionally windy weather is expected across much of Western Montana on Wednesday with gusts up to 40 mph in the Flathead Valley likely.

Body of missing Kalispell woman found in river

Authorities on Sunday recovered the body of a missing Kalispell woman from the Flathead River. A fisherman reported finding the body 2 miles upstream from the Sportsman Bridge south of Kalispell on U.S. 93.

Alleged assault sets off 5-hour manhunt

A five-hour manhunt involving three different agencies ended with the suspect, a Columbia Falls man, being handed over by his father at the Columbia Falls Police station early Tuesday morning.

Bigfork's Jaeger named Montana's poet laureate

Accomplished Bigfork poet and longtime Flathead Valley Community College professor Lowell Jaeger has been selected as Montana’s seventh poet laureate, Gov. Steve Bullock announced on Friday.

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This is a letter of congratulations to Robert Welch of Kalispell for being a first-time voter.

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This is a letter of congratulations to Robert Welch of Kalispell for being a first-time voter.

A land grab of the aquatic kind

Over a year ago, the Quiet Waters Initiative popped up on the radar as a seemingly benign way to limit motorized boat use and “user conflict” on several waterways in the state. Sponsored by the Montana Chapter of the “Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Group,” this initiative is a covert attempt to stop motorized use in areas owned or controlled by a select group of fly fishing purists, many of whom own, represent or control property that will be directly impacted by this initiative. The most disturbing thing about this is that the Chairman of the Fish and Wildlife commission, Dan Vermillion, is right there in the thick of it with several businesses. Talk about a conflict of interest!

Fashion emergency on soccer field

A woman holding soccer practice at a field on Wolfpack Way reported being approached by a group of about five men all stripped down to their underwear. The woman said the men arrived in two vehicles, one with a shattered windshield, and asked if they could join her. When she did not respond they allegedly flipped her off. The woman left the field and called the police. Kalispell Police officers arrived and removed the men from the property.

Chain-saw bear tops county's surplus auction list

A 5-foot chain-saw carved bear that once delighted children at the Flathead County Library is perhaps the most unusual item on the county’s surplus auction list.

Whitefish plans surplus auction on Wednesday

The city of Whitefish will hold an auction on Wednesday to liquidate office furniture, a few vehicles and other equipment.

Some seniors could qualify for Medicare cost assistance

Roughly 1,800 Flathead residents tapping into Medicare could be up for additional benefits, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Road work on Montana 82 set to begin

Knife River is scheduled to begin work on the Montana Department of Transportation project “Flathead River — East and West” on Wednesday, May 24.

David John Landsberger, 59

David John Landsberger passed away May 12, 2017, at his daughter’s home in Belgrade, after battling cancer.

Kalispell officers get new body cameras

Now armed with a third eye, Kalispell’s police officers are hitting the streets with technology that will lend a new perspective to their jobs.

American Legion Baseball Lakers AA, A Canadian Days champions

The Kalispell Lakers AA and A American Legion baseball teams captured team titles at the Canadian Days Tournament on Sunday at Griffin Field.

Kalispell to discuss growth policy

Kalispell City Council will meet Monday to discuss an updated draft of the city’s growth policy.

'Fake news' workshop coming to FVCC

ImagineIF Library is inviting the public to learn about “fake news” at a panel discussion featuring members of the local media, Wednesday, May 24 at 6 p.m. at Flathead Valley Community College.

Man admits to robbing store, running over woman

A Kalispell man has admitted to robbing a store and running over a woman in an attempt to flee the scene in a October 2016 incident.

Whitefish City Hall saga successfully completed

The city of Whitefish opens for business tomorrow in some pretty nice new digs.

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I grew up in the Flathead Valley in the 1950s. I often tired of explaining to my friends that yes my father was a lawyer but we were not rich, not even wealthy or upper middle class. I occasionally railed at our very conservative lifestyle. I knew my father was well-respected and that many people wanted to do business with him and I could not understand why he was not more interested in making lots of money.

Can Islam ever be reformed? Not likely, speaker says

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I grew up in the Flathead Valley in the 1950s. I often tired of explaining to my friends that yes my father was a lawyer but we were not rich, not even wealthy or upper middle class. I occasionally railed at our very conservative lifestyle. I knew my father was well-respected and that many people wanted to do business with him and I could not understand why he was not more interested in making lots of money.

Vote for congressman on May 25

Rob Quist must have been questioned at length about his past financial history by Brian Schweitzer, Steve Bullock and the Democratic power brokers before being selected over a more qualified candidate.

Smile when you call me 'ignorant'

My name is Jack D. Jones, and I have lived in Kalispell, Montana, for the past nine years. Since being in business for myself most of my adult life, I have experienced many different situations both good and not so good. Presently I am battling a life-threatening disease brought on by my having too many birthdays. Being 80 years old, I have survived a lot of life’s challenges and many presidents of the United States of America, some good and some not so good.

Loggers rally for Western B-C title

LIBBY — Libby rallied back from a semifinal loss to rip off three straight wins and claim the Western B-C Divisional softball title on its home diamond Saturday.

Peacock, DiGiallonardo 1st at Western A Divisional

CORVALLIS — The Corvallis boys and girls won the team titles on their home track Saturday at the Western A Divisional track meet.

Lakers AA in title game of Canadian Days Tourney Tournament

A pair of Saturday American Legion baseball victories in the Canadian Days Tournament advances the host Kalispell Lakers AA to today’s championship game.

Legion Baseball Lakers A top Bandits, Redbirds in tourney play

The Kalispell Lakers A bounced back from a Friday night loss by beating the Calgary Redbirds A 11-4 and the Cranbrook Bandits 5-3 on Saturday at Archie Roe Field in the Canadian Days American Legion baseball tournament.

Libby boys Class B-C state tennis champs, again

The Daily Inter Lake

Wolfpack wins Western AA track

By JOSEPH TERRY

Wednesday panel puts fake news in spotlight

The truth is I’ve probably written about “fake news” as much as anyone has over the past 10 years, and I’ve been an equal opportunity critic.

Flathead grad finds success as pro wrestler

Fairy tales, beautiful but simple, aren’t supposed to be hard to understand. There are good guys and bad guys, heroes and villains.

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TODay

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TODay

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TODay

Bibler Gardens in full bloom for spring tours

Today is the final day of the spring tours at Bibler Home and Gardens in Kalispell, and the flower gardens are at their peak.

Driver takes scenic route on back 9

A man was reportedly driving his vehicle on a golf cart path through a golf course in Whitefish. When the caller stopped to speak with him, a screaming match ensued. The man was reportedly agitated and slurring his words. The caller also stated that there was an open container allegedly in the vehicle. Whitefish Police officers were unable to locate the joy rider.

Shirley Josephine Kurtz Miletich, 84

Shirley Josephine Kurtz Miletich, 84, passed away Thursday, May 18, 2017, at her home.

John M. Johnson, 66

John M. Johnson, 66, of Bigfork, passed away Tuesday, May 16, 2017, at home surrounded by family.

Local distillery eyes Japan for growth

After attending a trade show in April, Whistling Andy Distillery in Bigfork is making plans to export its locally-made spirits to Japan.

Bernie Sanders rallies voters to support Rob Quist

MISSOULA (AP) — Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders spoke about economic inequality and the failings of the country’s health care system Saturday as he sought to rally Montanans to vote for a singing cowboy trying to become the state’s first Democrat in the U.S. House in two decades.

Western AA marks fall on first day

Glacier junior Annie Hill made her goal for this weekend, breaking her own Western AA meet record on a fast day at Legends Stadium.

Libby, G. Falls Central tied in state boys tennis lead

MISSOULA — Defending champion Libby and Great Falls Central are tied for the boys team lead after Friday’s play at the Class B-C state tennis tournament.

C-Falls boys lead Western A track

CORVALLIS — The Columbia Falls boys and Corvallis girls top the standings after first-day action at the Western A Divisional track meet.

Polson hammers Whitefish

POLSON — Polson wrapped up regular season Northwest A softball play by taking a doubleheader from Whitefish on Friday.

Bigfork girls, Ronan boys Western B track champions track champs

FRENCHTOWN ­ — Haile Norred swept the dashes while Bryn Morley and Anya Young ruled the middle and distance races to push Bigfork to an easy team title at the Western B Divisional track meet Thursday and Friday.

Cecil, Buckingham 2nd in state doubles

By DAVID LESNICK

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Softball

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Softball

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Softball

Fraley leads list of locals at NCAA Prelims

AUSTIN, Texas — Gonzaga senior Troy Fraley, a 2013 Glacier High graduate, enters the postseason with the top collegiate 3,000-meter steeplechase time in the country, and is one of eight athletes from northwest Montana to compete at the 2017 NCAA West Preliminaries on May 25-27. The complete list of declared athletes was announced Thursday.

Slow wide load spurs road rage

A woman driving a wide load down U.S. 2 reported a man for pulling up beside her while she was pulled over to let traffic by and threatening to kill her. The man was allegedly angry about slow traffic and reached behind his seat stating he had a gun and a carry permit that “allowed him to do whatever he wanted.” The woman said she never actually saw the gun but felt concerned for her safety during the altercation.

Jobless rate improves in Flathead County

Flathead County’s unemployment rate improved in April, dropping from 6.7 percent in March to 5.4 percent last month.

West Glacier RV park approved

Commissioners add conditions for road safety

Glacier Park Inc.’s proposed West Glacier RV Park & Cabin Village won unanimous approval from the Flathead County commissioners on Friday.

Two Men and a Truck opens in Whitefish

Moving anywhere can be a hassle, a problem one of Whitefish’s newer businesses hopes to help fix.

Mobile coffee bar finds permanent home in Col. Falls

What started as a side gig has now turned into a full-time business for local barista Matthew Bussard, owner of Azul Coffee Bar, who recently moved his coffee bar into Uptown Hearth, a bakery in downtown Columbia Falls.

Kalispell tech business poised for future growth

Learned Reality, a Kalispell business that provides e-learning and web services for businesses, is a recent recipient of a Big Sky Trust Fund grant offered by Montana West Economic Development, funding that will help with employee training and equipment needs as the business makes plans to expand.

Whitefish bike shop opens for second season

Boedie Cycles in Whitefish opened last month for its second summer to offer custom-made bikes and bike repairs.

Baseball Canadian Days tourney begins tonight

The annual Canadian Days Tournament gets under way tonight with games at Griffin and Archie Roe fields.

Frenchtown edges C-Falls

COLUMBIA FALLS — Frenchtown scored three runs in the top of the sixth inning to slip by Columbia Falls 3-2 in Northwest A softball play on Thursday.

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Whitefish, Polson division net champs

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Whitefish, Polson division net champs

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Whitefish, Polson division net champs

AA divisional track at Legends Stadium

The Daily Inter Lake

Johnston claims state golf by 14 strokes

SHELBY — Libby sophomore Ryggs Johnston fired 5-under-par 67 in the final round at the Class B state golf tournament to easily defend his title from last season and set a new all-class record for low 36-hole score, finishing at 16-under-par 128.

Wolfpack doubles back for another bite

Glacier seniors Anna Cecil and Maya Buckingham are back in the semifinals at the Class AA state tennis tournament, and have a chance to avenge a familiar foe to get to the finals.

Dateline will focus episode on Kalispell murder victim

The national television show Dateline NBC on Sunday night will feature a story on the murder of Kalispell native Nicole Waller.

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Reid Emerson Houtz, son of Steve and Sierra Houtz, was born Dec. 30 at North Valley Hospital.

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Reid Emerson Houtz, son of Steve and Sierra Houtz, was born Dec. 30 at North Valley Hospital.

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Reid Emerson Houtz, son of Steve and Sierra Houtz, was born Dec. 30 at North Valley Hospital.

Tobi Mikkel Lehman, 41

Tobi Mikkel Lehman, 41, passed away during his sleep on March 9, 2017. He died accidently from his seizure disorder.

Jennie (Voorhies) Rauthe, 92

Jennie passed away of natural causes on May 10, 2017, at Brendan House in Kalispell, surrounded by all five of her loving children and numerous other family members.

Pauline Ann Hovey Pedersen Kinniburgh, 84

Pauline passed away Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, at her home in Kalispell.

Police try to 'ketchup' with vandals

A group of kids allegedly vandalized a man’s vehicle — while he was inside — by putting ketchup all over it and driving away, according to a Kalispell Police report.

Nothing but trash at zany Eureka fashion show

When the Eureka Creative Arts Center’s “Trash-2-Flash” rolled around a few years back, a hunter who preferred rather unusual game gathered some acquired pelts, stitched them together and voila! A perfect piece was hatched and strutted down the runway to the great joy of the gathered crowd.

Whitefish man denies knife assault, threatening officer

A Whitefish man is facing charges of assault and threatening a police officer and the officer’s family during his arrest last month.

Registration now open for Whitefish Theatre Co.'s summer camps

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is now enrolling students in summer camps for five age groups, ranging from kindergarten through 11th grade.

'Two by Two'

The Port Polson Players continue their 42nd season with the musical comedy “Two by Two,” opening Friday, May 19 at Polson’s Theatre on the Lake.

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Violinist hosting concert to raise money for Kalispell shelter

Kalispell’s Wai Mizutani is putting on a free concert, Monday, May 22 to raise money for Peggy’s House, a shelter for women and children on the city’s west side.

Local sculptor wins award in Sioux Falls

Bigfork sculptor Eric Thorsen was named one of 11 Best of Show II winners at the annual Sioux Falls, South Dakota SculptureWalk earlier this month.

Porcelain studio opening in Kalispell

YY Designs’ new studio and showroom will have its grand opening Saturday, June 3 from 1 to 5 p.m.

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East Valley pottery tour this weekend

Five Northwest Montana potters are kicking off the summer season with the first-ever East Valley Pottery Tour this Saturday and Sunday.

Ink as Art

The venerated halls of Chicago’s Field Museum of Natural History have housed dinosaur bones, mummies, pristine rare artifacts, and all manner of stately exhibitions in the more than 120 years since its doors first opened.

Film Club screening 'All the King's Men'

The Museum at Central School’s Historic Film Club is hosting a free showing of the political classic “All the King’s Men,” Tuesday, May 30 at 7 p.m.

Bigfork Summer Playhouse kicks off 2017 season

The 58th season of live professional theater at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts returns this weekend when the Bigfork Summer Playhouse debuts “The Marvelous Wonderettes.”

'Mountain Goats' to be featured in Apgar Village

Photographer and videographer Sumio Harada will present “Mountain Goats — True Life in Glacier” in a “Look, Listen and Learn” program Saturday, May 27 at Apgar Village’s Montana House.

Profound or Profane?

Books have been written on the art of profanity.

Vigil honors fallen Broadwater deputy

A crowd mostly dressed in black gathered outside the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday evening to remember the Broadwater County sheriff’s deputy who was killed in the line of duty on Tuesday.

Glacier Conservancy exceeds fundraising mark

During a year in which visitation to Glacier National Park shattered its previous record by 24 percent, the park’s fundraising arm also eclipsed its past high mark in donations — taking in $2.2 million from donors in 2016.

Former FBI Director Mueller to lead Trump-Russia probe

WASHINGTON — The Justice Department on Wednesday appointed former FBI Director Robert Mueller as a special counsel to oversee a federal investigation into potential coordination between Russia and the Trump campaign during the 2016 presidential election.

Raceway subdivison wins board approval

A residential subdivision planned where the landmark Raceway Park operates won a favorable recommendation from the Flathead County Planning Board last week.

Decision on RV park delayed until Friday

A decision about whether to grant approval for a proposed recreational vehicle park and cabin village in West Glacier has been delayed until Friday to allow time for the Flathead County commissioners to get additional information about traffic impacts.

State AA tennis rolls into Kalispell

Now, if only the weather will cooperate for once this spring.

Stitt chats about Sandry, spring ball

By Anthony Nachreiner

Enough is enough

At some point it has to stop raining, right?

Weather postpones final day of State B golf

SHELBY — With cold weather and high winds settling in, and rain projected on the way, officials suspended the second day of the Class B state golf tournament before competitors could tee off on Wednesday at Marias Valley Golf Club.

Softball play-ins pushed back to Friday

The Kalispell Class AA softball teams get a chance to extend their season today as the Western AA playoffs get underway.

Lawrence Park addition approved

Lawrence Park will expand by 16 acres following Kalispell City Council’s approval Monday night of the purchase of a plot of land adjacent to the city park from Knife River for $1.

Elk herd faces harassment from above

Someone was reported for allegedly harassing a herd of elk by flying a drone approximately 500-600 feet over their heads, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Stanly Alden Abernathy, 68

Stanly Alden Abernathy, 68, passed away on May 15, 2017, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. He died of acute hypoxic respiratory failure due to amyloidosis.

Wendy Arlene Rhoades, 51

Wendy Arlene Rhoades, 51, of Kalispell, peacefully passed away May 14, 2017, in her home.

Margaret C. Pontius, 103

Margaret C. Pontius, 103, of Bigfork, passed away May 14, 2017, in Bigfork.

Jeff William Selig, 63

Jeff William Selig died peacefully at his home surrounded by family and friends at the age of 63.

Sylvia Earleen Erickson, 94

Sylvia Earleen Erickson, 94, passed away on Tuesday May 9, 2017, at Brendan House in Kalispell, with her family by her side.

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Glad to read a recent column by Max Baucus and know that he is back amongst us in Montana. I have missed my many e-mail exchanges with Max while he was our U.S. senator, before he left to be U.S. ambassador to China, and I want to address him directly in this letter to the editor.

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Glad to read a recent column by Max Baucus and know that he is back amongst us in Montana. I have missed my many e-mail exchanges with Max while he was our U.S. senator, before he left to be U.S. ambassador to China, and I want to address him directly in this letter to the editor.

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Glad to read a recent column by Max Baucus and know that he is back amongst us in Montana. I have missed my many e-mail exchanges with Max while he was our U.S. senator, before he left to be U.S. ambassador to China, and I want to address him directly in this letter to the editor.

Bound for Montana to help save America

Spring snowstorm on track to hit Northern Rockies

A late-spring snowstorm is on track to bring widespread impacts to the Northern Rockies today through Thursday.

El Daily Stormer: Neo-Nazi website is now in Spanish, too

How does a leading neo-Nazi website that has railed against Hispanic immigrants expand its audience beyond a loyal base of U.S. white supremacists? By publishing a Spanish-language edition, of course.

Glacier High wins Most Memorable Graduation award

Glacier High School has another tassel to add to its graduation cap following the announcement Monday it received the Most Memorable Graduation award and $10,000 from Varsity Brands.

Hungry Horse 'pipe bomb' confirmed a fake

An alleged pipe bomb found in front of the Dam Town Tavern in Hungry Horse on Monday afternoon has been confirmed as a fake.

Broadwater County deputy killed in shootout

MISSOULA (AP) — A sheriff’s deputy was killed early Tuesday in a shootout that prompted a middle-of-the-night pursuit that spanned more than 100 miles across southwestern Montana, involving several law enforcement agencies.

Rangers reflect on successful rescue of hiker

Madeline Connelly and her dog were found alive after six days

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TODay

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TODay

Wildkats shut down Pirates at the plate

COLUMBIA FALLS — Columbia Falls shut down Polson’s normally strong lineup, holding the Pirates to five hits in a 5-1 Northwestern A conference softball victory on Tuesday.

Porch wins U.S. Open qualifier

MISSOULA — Kalispell’s Ryan Porch shot a 7-under-par 64 to win the U.S. Open local qualifier on Tuesday at Missoula Country Club.

Johnston shoots 61 to lead State B

SHELBY — Libby sophomore Ryggs Johnston torched Marias Valley Golf Club on Tuesday, firing an 11-under-par 61 on the opening day of the Class B state golf tournament to start his title defense with style.

Siblerud, Todd hurl Lakers past Mariners

Solid pitching and plenty of hitting carried the Kalispell Lakers to a Class A American Legion baseball doubleheader sweep of the Mission Valley Mariners on Monday evening at Griffin Field.

Polson, Whitefish teams to beat at divisional tennis

Columbia Falls, Polson, Stevensville and Whitefish will battled for team titles and state qualifiers today and Wednesday at the Northwestern A Divisional tennis tournament.

Libby's Johnston a heavy favorite at State B golf

Libby sophomore Ryggs Johnston will be a heavy favorite today and Wednesday to repeat as the Class B state golf champion.

Cheyenne Nathan Allen, 35

Cheyenne Nathan Allen, 35, of Somers, passed away May 7, 2017.

Richard 'Dick' Rousselle, 78

Richard “Dick” Rousselle, son of the late Norman and Virginia Rousselle, passed away peacefully at age 78 at his home in Ronan, on May 14, 2017, in the loving presence of family members after a nearly five-year battle with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

Bette J. Engle, 94

Bette J. Engle, 94, passed away Saturday, May 6, 2017, in Kalispell.

Flathead County employees to get pay raise

The Flathead County commissioners gave themselves and other elected county officials a 1.3 percent cost-of-living pay raise on Monday, effective when the new fiscal year begins July 1.

Man calls deputies about doorbell pranksters

A resident of Marjorie Street told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office he was sick of being ding-dong ditched. The man said a group of juveniles had been repeatedly running up to his house and ringing the doorbell before running away. The man warned that he had bear spray and intended to start using it, despite authorities advising him not to spray children.

Learn about living with bears

Swan Valley Bear Resources will host an informational Bear Fair on Saturday, June 3, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Swan Valley Community Hall, Montana 83, mile marker 42.5 in Condon. This community event will help people learn about grizzly bear behavior, biology, and conflict management.

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TODay

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TODay

Have you ever been 'stalked' by an ad? Here's why

Having recently moved to Montana, it’s become evident that I must explore this magical place. The mountains, lakes, trails and valleys beckon me, so naturally, I’ve had to buy hiking boots, bear spray, snowshoes, jackets, bike gear as well as various other items to help me “properly” get around. Not to mention the studded snow tires for my wife’s Prius. That was a necessary purchase.

Bigfork area woman enjoys once-in-a-lifetime hunt

Five days into a soggy, luckless sheep hunt in the Missouri River Breaks last September, Jean Moore was not having a good time. At the age of 66, the life-long hunter and Swan Valley resident had spent the past three months training for the once-in-a-lifetime hunt, for which just one in every 285 applicants for a bighorn ram tag each year actually draws one.

Service providers picked for Kalispell school projects

The Kalispell Public School system has selected architectural and engineering firms for services on the remaining construction projects at the district’s elementary schools, Linderman Education Center and H.E. Robinson Vocational Agricultural Center.

Whitefish considers boat canopy request

The Whitefish City Council has an unusually light agenda tonight, with a lakeshore permit request topping the order of business.

Kalispell poised to award street reconstruction bid

The bid to replace about 14 blocks of street and the water pipe on Fourth Avenue East will be awarded during tonight’s Kalispell City Council meeting.

Stolen money leads to loss of job

Columbia Falls Police took a report from a business owner who said she had video footage that showed an employee stealing money. When confronted, the employee denied taking any money, but the employer asked the employee to add “former” to her title. No charges were being pursued.

A.J. King of Three Rivers Bank joins bankers at White House event

A.J. King, president of Three Rivers Bank of Montana, joined more than 100 community bankers and the Independent Community Bankers of America earlier this month for a meeting with President Donald Trump and other top administration officials at the White House as part of the 2017 ICBA Capital Summit.

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TODay

Spencer leads Va. protest against Confederate statue removal

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) — A group that included Richard Spencer carried torches and chanted “you will not replace us” at a weekend protest in Virginia over plans to remove a monument of a Confederate general.

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On May 8 a full-page ad stated SHAME ON YOU and listed the names of 10 elected officials. These officials legally followed procedures, and a valid vote determined the voting process for the congressional election.

Creative problem-solving needed in Glacier Park

So Glacier National Park is considering a “one car in, one car out” policy at venues on dead-end roads such as Bowman Lake due to overcrowded parking causing a “safety issue.” I wonder how often emergency vehicles have had a problem getting to where they were needed at the lake. Not to mention that it seems to me a helicopter would be more useful in providing timely intervention and not be affected by overcrowded parking. My guess is that there are fewer than 50 parking spaces (excluding the campground itself) for the whole site, including people parking for multi-day backcountry hiking.

Whitefish couple's treehouse featured on DIY Network

Once upon a time, treehouses were relegated as play spaces for children. Not so anymore.

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This is a reply to Bill Hensleigh’s guest opinion “Can we now have a national debate about abortion?”

Post-mortem on 65th session

From the governor and the GOP

By Steve Bullock

Montana gets boost from trade news

The impact of trade policy on Montana’s economy has never been more clear than in the last month when three major announcements came out of the Trump White House.

RV project goes to commission

A recreational vehicle park and cabin village planned in West Glacier goes before the Flathead Commissioners at 10 a.m. Tuesday.

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On May 8 a full-page ad stated SHAME ON YOU and listed the names of 10 elected officials. These officials legally followed procedures, and a valid vote determined the voting process for the congressional election.

What lies beneath

Longtime diver reclaims logs in Swan River

Rivers are a lot like people, Jody Bakker suggests.

Billings report on Quist taxes called laughably wrong

As a lawyer who practices property-rights and real-estate law in Kalispell, I was shocked to read a Billings Gazette article that overtly implies wrongdoing by a Flathead County resident who actually did nothing wrong.

Agriculture is key to Montana jobs

By Steve Daines

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On May 8 a full-page ad stated SHAME ON YOU and listed the names of 10 elected officials. These officials legally followed procedures, and a valid vote determined the voting process for the congressional election.

Republican lawmakers say they delivered

As the 2017 legislative session has come to an end, we want to make sure that Montanans have a clear view of what’s happened the past few months in Helena. The mission of the Senate and House Republicans from Day One has been to help create more opportunities for all Montanans by making our state a better place to work, live and do business. Government should work in service to the people, not the other way around. In large part this means fighting against policies that increase taxes, grow government and take from the citizens of Montana.

Can we take a closer look at FDR? How about taxes?

I read with great interest Pat Williams’ recent guest opinion piece in the Daily Inter Lake. I was particularly interested in his recollection of a number of historical facts. My recollection of some of those historical facts differ somewhat from that of Mr. Williams.

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This is a reply to Bill Hensleigh’s guest opinion “Can we now have a national debate about abortion?”

Rural Montana deserves a Montana voice in Congress

I was born and raised in Cut Bank where I learned that nothing gets done without hard work.

Lakers drop 2 to Senators; Twins sweep

The Kalispell Lakers dropped a Class AA American Legion baseball doubleheader to the Helena Senators at Griffin Field on Saturday afternoon.

Whitefish netters spill Stevi in dual finale

WHITEFISH — Whitefish tuned up for this week’s Northwestern A divisional tennis action in Polson and Ronan by sweeping Stevensville in a Class A nonconference dual on Saturday at the Flathead Valley Community College courts.

C-Falls' Jones wins Big Sky jav

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — University of Montana senior Daniel Jones uncorked the longest throw of his career in the best possible moment, winning the Big Sky Conference javelin championship on Saturday on the campus of Sacramento State University.

Corvallis rules at Polson ABC

By JOSEPH TERRY

Black and Blue back on top

By JOSEPH TERRY

Trump plays the outsider card; insiders go bananas

Yes, I was shocked that President Trump fired FBI Director James Comey, but not for the same reasons as the howling national media and the hypocritical Democratic establishment.

Libertarian Mark Wicks stumps in the Flathead

In the less than three months since the race began to fill the vacancy in Montana’s at-large U.S. House seat, political groups have spent millions of dollars in television ads portraying the Republican and Democratic hopefuls as beholden to out-of-state interests or out of touch with “Montana values.” Against that largely negative backdrop, Libertarian candidate Mark Wicks is presenting himself as an outlet to what he sees as growing disillusionment with the two dominant parties in American politics.

Tester makes pitch for Quist's campaign

Sen. Jon Tester let out a loud cheer with a fist pump as he entered the packed ballroom upstairs at the Museum at Central School on Saturday.

Baby comes home for Mother's Day

The nurse placed the newborn on his mother’s leg. For about two minutes, the Kalispell mother felt his skin on hers and watched his eyes, her hand on his back. For the next few weeks, that would be the last time she would see her son without tubes in his nose.

Drone clinic a start for how to 'pilot intelligently'

Dozens of drone enthusiasts gathered at the Fairgrounds Saturday to talk about all things “drone” and take a look at where the industry is going.

Couple denies involvement in police chase

A Kalispell couple has denied their involvement in a high-speed chase that ended in the Flathead River in April.

A mirthful Mother's Day

Today being Mother’s Day, I did a bit of Googling to see what the internet could offer to honor moms and add some humor to our day.

Shirley Louise Heil, 80

Shirley Louise Heil, 80, “received her angels wings” on Tuesday, May 9, when she passed away peacefully with her family by her side.

Leona Malinda Arestad, 92

Leona Malinda Arestad, 92, passed away peacefully in Colorado on April 4, 2017.

Jennie (Voorhies) Rauthe, 92

Jennie passed away of natural causes on May 10, 2017, at Brendan House in Kalispell, surrounded by all five of her loving children and numerous other family members.

Thief has dare-devil taste

A four wheeler and a dirt bike were reportedly stolen from a car port on Third Avenue West, according to Columbia Falls Police Department.

Richard Austin, 85

Richard Austin “rode off into the sunset” on May 8, 2017.

Edward John 'Bud' Kienas, 58

Edward John “Bud” Kienas passed away May 10, 2017, at his home in Somers after a short battle with cancer.

Patricia Mae Managhan

A celebration of life for Patricia Mae Managhan, 95, formerly of Hot Springs, who died Jan. 26 will at held at 2 p.m. Friday, May 19, at the Lone Pine Community Hall in Lone Pine. A potluck will follow.

Gerald Duane 'Jerry' Ivers, 79

Gerald Duane Ivers, affectionately known as Jerry, was born Sept. 27, 1937, in Kalispell.

Pauline Ann Hovey Pedersen Kinniburgh, 84

Pauline passed away Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, at her home in Kalispell.

George Enoch Hawes, 88

George “was called by the angels in heaven to complete his journey” on May 4, 2017, passing peacefully at home due to natural causes.

Chris Walterskirchen, 60

Chris (Sparky) Walterskirchen passed away of natural causes in Missoula, May 8, 2017, with his two brothers and sister by his side.

Jean Gray Moore, 88

Jean Gray Moore, 88, passed away Tuesday, May 9, 2017, at her residence.

Fryberger, Benson HR as Polson rolls

BUTTE — Hannah Fryberger homered in both games, Ashley Benson belted her first of the season as Polson crushed Hardin 14-3 and topped Havre 12-5 at the LaVerne Combo Invitational softball tournament on a cold, damp Friday.

Glacier divisional champs, again

The Daily Inter Lake

Black and Blue bruise by Billings

The Flathead Black and Blue didn’t need much time to prove how they earned the top seed at the Montana Youth Rugby high school boys state tournament.

Message to FVCC graduates: Embrace life's challenges

Major Jason Curtis stood before a crowd at Flathead Valley Community College on Friday evening and described the time he began to fall from the sky.

Street performers asked to move show

Three teens reportedly were seen dancing in the middle of the highway in front of a local saloon. Kalispell Police officers advised the trio to keep their groovy moves on the sidewalk.

Archery class teaches Kila students patience, discipline

Beginner archers lined up in a grassy field outside Kila School on May 3. Teacher Jenna Morgan blew a whistle, the command for students to place their bows on top of a foot. Blowing the whistle again, students formed a comfortable stance and lifted their bows toward targets placed 10 yards away.

Nuclear attack sub gets state support committee

The submarine that will carry Montana’s name now has a state-based committee to make sure the landlocked Treasure State is represented in the underwater vessel.

Officials capture and kill grizzly near Eureka Bear had killed 8 domestic sheep

Wildlife officials have killed a grizzly bear near Eureka after the bear killed eight domestic sheep.

Sun Road opens to vehicles to Avalanche Creek

Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is now open to Avalanche Creek to motor vehicles. Hiker-biker access beyond that is to Logan Pit, but unrestricted when plow crews aren’t working on weekends and later in the day on weekdays.

Bernie Sanders to campaign in Montana for Quist May 20-21

HELENA (AP) — Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders is scheduled to visit Montana next weekend to campaign for Democrat Rob Quist as he seeks a seat in the U.S. House.

Tourism grant puts grandstand fundraising over the top

A sizable state grant has helped put fundraising over the top for new grandstands at the Sapa-Johnsrud baseball fields in Columbia Falls.

Kalispell mother dies in crash on U.S. 2

A 34-year-old Kalispell woman killed in a collision Thursday night has been identified, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Flathead boys, girls top Bulldogs in track

WHITEFISH — Flathead doubled up on Whitefish in a track dual on Thursday with the boys winning 125-20 and the girls claiming a more competitive 77-54 victory.

Wolfpack netters in charge at AA divisional tennis

GREAT FALLS — The Glacier boys and girls are off to a blazing start after first-day action at the Northern AA Divisional tennis tournament on Thursday.

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Rugby state tournament opens at Glacier today

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Rugby state tournament opens at Glacier today

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Rugby state tournament opens at Glacier today

Wolfpack HRs by Bravettes

By JOSEPH TERRY

Edward John 'Bud' Kienas, 58

Edward John “Bud” Kienas, 58, passed away on Wednesday, May 10, 2017, at his home in Somers.

Carcass found in broken freezer

Someone reported smelling a foul odor coming from a trailer on Spencer Road while going door to door for a fundraiser. The person made the report to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office out of fear that there may be a dead body inside. Upon investigation, authorities did discover a body, but it was that of a butchered deer in a freezer that had quit working.

Jean K. Smith, 92

Jean K. Smith, 92, passed away on May 2, 2017, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

Maxine Kay Goff, 67

Maxine Kay Goff passed away Sunday, April 30, 2017, at the Lake View Care Center in Bigfork, with her loved ones close by.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Walmart, blood mobile.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Walmart, blood mobile.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Walmart, blood mobile.

Whitefish to decide on $26.5M school bond

After hearing strong support from members of the community in attendance, the Whitefish School Board voted unanimously during its Tuesday meeting to ask voters for a bond to construct a new Muldown Elementary School.

Lawmakers strike deal on VA accountability bill

Congressional Democrats and Republicans reached a deal Thursday on a long-debated bill that streamlines the Department of Veterans Affairs’ ability to fire its employees, while also strengthening protections for department whistleblowers.

Kalispell offered $1 deal to expand city park

The Knife River construction company has made an offer to sell a 16-acre plot of land adjacent to Lawrence Park for $1 to the city of Kalispell.

Kalispell Chamber alerts members to scam

The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce has issued a warning to its members and residents following reports of a telemarketing scam in the Flathead Valley.

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What phobia is this?

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What phobia is this?

'Artist's Choice' exhibition

The Bigfork Art and Cultural Center’s newest exhibition, “Artist’s Choice” featuring 27 Montana artists, craftsmen and photographers, opens Friday, May 26.

FIT FOR A FEAST

Generally speaking, if you’re running a chamber of commerce, a group whose mission is to provide support, exposure and, you know, customers to local businesses, when the businesses in town are jam packed with customers, that’s not as much a problem as a cause for celebration.

'Why We Sing' concert next up for Valley Voices

The Valley Voices Community Choir will perform a pair of free concerts, Saturday and Sunday, May 20-21.

Hockaday offering summer classes for kids

Kalispell’s downtown Hockaday Museum of Art has set its schedule of summer classes for children, a lineup of six different courses running from June through August.

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Pounding pavement

Flathead and Glacier will head in different directions for Class AA divisional tennis action on Thursday.

Libby starts title defense at Western B

A wet, damp spring continues to challenge the prep tennis season.

Bravettes, Wolfpack softball teams meet again

After a rainy first meeting, the Flathead and Glacier softball teams enter today’s season-ending doubleheader with a chance to enter the postseason on a roll.

Flathead to celebrate Epperly

Flathead High School will hold a ceremony to celebrate longtime coach Bill Epperly for his induction into the National High School Athletic Coaches Association Hall of Fame at 7 p.m. on Friday at the school gym.

What makes a series fun?

Are blowouts good in the playoffs?

Grant wins biking national title

ARKADELPHIA, Ark. — Columbia Falls cyclist Rose Grant overcame a series of injuries to win her fourth consecutive USA Cycling Marathon Mountain Bike National Championships on Iron Mountain on Sunday.

Pirates, Bulldogs split tennis dual

Polson and Whitefish split a tennis dual on Wednesday at Flathead Valley Community College.

Samson, Braves attack offseason

It may be May, and spring practice for college may be over, but August will be right around the corner and it will be time to gear up for high school football in the Flathead Valley. I spoke to Flathead football coach Kyle Samson about the team and how they are doing during the offseason.

PHOTO GALLERY: Law Enforcement Torch Run

Submarine veterans gather to discuss sea life

A Flathead submarine veteran, Geo Johnson leaned against his pickup truck and adjusted his hat as he talked about a normal day at work hundreds of meters below the ocean’s surface.

Raccoons a questionable pet to keep

A woman reported a resident to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office for keeping pet raccoons in a cage behind her house. The woman accused the person of feeding a dog to the raccoon after she allegedly heard a dog shrieking and then go quiet.

Arvid L. Snyder Jr., 56

Arvid L. Snyder Jr., 56, of Kalispell, passed away Sunday, May 7, 2017, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center due to a stroke.

Kalispell proves to be a burpee beast

Kalispell is officially a part of the world’s most important record book.

Missing hiker rescued from wilderness

Following her rescue Wednesday morning, a hiker from Arizona told authorities how she and her dog survived a week lost in the Great Bear Wilderness near Essex.

Bravettes seniors blast Polson

The Flathead seniors lifted their team when they had to, with a pair of them hitting late home runs to drive the Bravettes softball team to a 5-4 victory over Polson on on senior night Tuesday at Kidsports Complex.

Bigfork land-use committee members elected

Joyce Mitchell and Tim Kittle have been elected to serve on the Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee.

Open house showcases student-built house

An open house at 125 Corporate Court in Kalispell is planned to showcase the completed Flathead High School

Blackfeet protest grizzly hunting at bear manager meeting

Members of the Blackfeet Tribe protested delisting grizzly bears during a meeting of key bear managers last week.

Trump fires FBI Director James Comey

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump abruptly fired FBI Director James Comey Tuesday, saying it was necessary to restore “public trust and confidence” in the nation’s top law enforcement agency following several tumultuous months.

Whitefish added to U.S. Department of Education's Green Ribbon Schools

Whitefish School District was added to the list of the nation’s

Program offers support for caretakers

For most grandparents, seeing a newborn grandchild in a hospital nursery is a moment of pride. For Jacqueline Elm, it was the start to the realization that her daughter was addicted to drugs.

Bigfork students to compete in National History Day Contest

Nine National History Day state finalists from Bigfork are fundraising their way to compete nationally in Maryland this June.

Johnston defends Division 3 Tournament golf title

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Glacier rallies in 7th to nip Kats

The Daily Inter Lake

Kalispell Senior Center to hold tea party Friday

This Friday, the Kalispell Senior Center ballroom will be decked out in lace and dotted with miniature sandwiches and pastries for an old-fashioned tea party fundraiser.

Students are too cool for school

A group of middle school kids were reported for trying to climb on to the roof of a school on Northwest Lane, according to the Kalispell Police Department.

California man threatens train passenger

A man from California has been arrested after he allegedly threatened a fellow passenger with a knife on an inbound train to Whitefish Friday night.

Lake County sheriff completes national training

After completing a week-long national training program, one local sheriff has returned to work more determined and equipped to do his job than ever.

Power outage scheduled for Big Mountain area Wednesday

Flathead Electric Cooperative has scheduled a power outage in the Big Mountain area of Whitefish to begin at approximately 11 p.m. Wednesday, May 10, and conclude at 5 a.m. Thursday, May 11. Efforts have been made to notify the 716 impacted residents in advance. The outage is necessary to perform repairs on mainline equipment.

Kalispell man killed in motorcycle crash

A Kalispell man died Friday afternoon in a motorcycle crash after rear-ending a van while eastbound on Interstate 90 east of Livingston.

Lake County program trades service for jail time

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has announced the creation of a program in response to the lack of jail space in the Lake County Detention Center.

Distillery owner shares her creative path

Lauren Oscilowski had just put in hours of hard work trying to get everything ready for the opening of her new distillery in downtown Whitefish. She had taken a jackhammer to the concrete floors with the intention of using acetone-based dye — a technique used to create a rustic, industrial feel — to give the floor a brown tint. But when she poured the dye on the floor, something wasn’t quite right. The color wasn’t changing like it should have.

Eloise McMillan, 93

Eloise McMillan, 93, of Kalispell, died May 4, 2017, in Kalispell.

Kalispell City Council begins 2018 budget work sessions

Beginning Monday, Kalispell City Council will hold work sessions to discuss the city’s budget for the 2018 fiscal year.

FVCC student and veteran receives check for monument

On behalf of the Northwest Montana Chapter of the Vietnam Veterans of America, L.D. Gross presented Flathead Valley Community College student and veteran Adam Jones with a check for $1,900 on May 1 to benefit the construction of a Reflections Monument on campus in honor of all of America’s veterans.

Whitefish family featured on HGTV show

A new Mountain Life television episode, “Big Mountain Hideaway in Whitefish, Montana,” will feature a nomadic family finally settling down in the Flathead Valley and Whitefish. The episode, which is part of a homebuying series about finding the perfect mountain home for the right price, premieres Saturday, May 13, at 9:30 p.m. on HGTV.

Waller-Hosler

Jana and John Waller of Kalispell announce the engagement of their daughter Katie Waller to Jesse Hosler, the son of Peggy Hosler-Hayes and Eric Hayes of Kalispell, and the late Wayne Harris.

Gianforte vs. Quist vs. Wicks

Early voting is underway on special congressional election

Relative to the House of Representatives race, the election pot is boiling, but, as usual, with way too much of the “emotional” ingredients that cloud the real essence of this profound decision.

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Last week the Republican-led Montana legislators defeated a badly needed infrastructure bill by holding it hostage and demanding Gov. Bullock capitulate on women’s health care. Some of these legislators responsible were four Flathead politicians, M. Regier, Brodehl, Skees and Glimm.

Garden train project stumps local woman

We get all kinds of questions here at the Daily Inter Lake.

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Last week the Republican-led Montana legislators defeated a badly needed infrastructure bill by holding it hostage and demanding Gov. Bullock capitulate on women’s health care. Some of these legislators responsible were four Flathead politicians, M. Regier, Brodehl, Skees and Glimm.

One view of how Whitefish conflict started

I am writing in response to your April 19 article entitled “Whitefish woman sues neo-Nazi for online assault.” The purpose of this missive is to factually correct some of the events as they have been described. I have corroboratory witnesses and evidence for the facts in this matter as I am stating them.

Help us try to limit water-bottling plant

By Steven Harvey

Dark Sky adds to allure of Glacier

Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park is the first trans-boundary International Dark Sky Park — an important designation in protecting the visitor experience that drives the tourism industry in Northwest Montana.

The war of words over Trump and the Civil War

I was minding my own business driving home from Libby last Monday when my peace was shattered by a collision — not with a deer as usually happens on that stretch of U.S. 2, but with the latest vitriolic, whiny complaints of self-important conservative talk-show host Mark Levin as he once again questioned the intelligence of President Trump.

Libby, Eureka go 2-0 in Class B softball play

Libby picked up two victories in Missoula on Saturday in Class B softball play.

Tennis Glacier's Hill, Gillespie 4th at Helena Invite

HELENA — Meagan Gillespie and Libby Hill of Glacier lost 6-3, 7-5 in the No. 2 doubles consolation finals to place fourth on Saturday at the Helena Invitational tennis tournament.

Lakers, Belgrade split twinbill

The Kalispell Lakers AA team split a doubleheader with Belgrade’s A team on Saturday at Griffin Field.

Black and Blue hammers Helena

HELENA — The Kalispell Black and Blue rugby team (5-0) rolled a short-handed Helena squad (1-3) for a 51-5 win to finish its third-straight undefeated regular season on Saturday.

Glacier grads Fraley, Hulslander make track history for Gonzaga, Air Force

Glacier High School graduates Troy Fraley and Taylor Hulslander made history on Friday.

Braves, Wolfpack win Roe titles

By JOSEPH TERRY

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TODay

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PHOTO GALLERY: Montana Spartan Beast races

Thousands of athletes competed in the Montana Spartan Beast and Sprint races Saturday at Flathead Lake Lodge in Bigfork.

PHOTO GALLERY: Newborn lambs at Whitefish farm

This time of year brings a lot of happiness to EarthStar Farm owners Susan and Chad Waite. Their family farm near Whitefish saw 13 lambs born this spring.

Kalispell Regional begins final phase of ER expansion

As Kalispell Regional Medical Center begins its final piece of an Emergency Services expansion, people making their way to the emergency room this week will encounter construction detours.

Police departments take part in torch run

Police officers, deputies and troopers will be participating this week in the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run by carrying the Flame of Hope across Montana to raise funds and public awareness for Special Olympics Montana. The torch will travel from all corners of the state on its way to the Special Olympics State Summer Games in Missoula, May 16 to 19, where the arrival of the torch and lighting of the Olympic cauldron will officially begin the games.

Whitefish Trail groundbreaking ceremony in Haskill Basin

Whitefish Legacy Partners and project partners will celebrate the Whitefish Trail’s expansion into Haskill Basin on Tuesday, May 9.

Warrior mentality

Dan Holguin, the exuberant, confident, dreadlocked, heart-on-his-sleeve, 31-year-old Kalispell fitness instructor was not always this way.

Man allegedly threatens train passenger with knife

A caller reported that a male passenger on a train 20 minutes out of Whitefish was threatening another passenger with a knife. Flathead County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the incident.

Leota 'Dutch' Porteus

A celebration of life for Leota “Dutch” Porteus, 81, who died Jan. 14 will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 13, at the North Valley Eagles Club in Columbia Falls.

John T. Noonan, 81

Dr. John T. Noonan passed away on April 13, 2017, at the Cascades of the Sierras in Reno, Nevada, where he lived for seven years.

James Cranmer

A graveside service for James Cranmer, 90, who died Feb. 5 will be held at 4 p.m. Friday, May 19, at Lone Pine Cemetery near the Little Brown Church in Bigfork. A celebration of life will follow at the Swan River Community Hall on Montana 83, Bigfork.

Geraldine M. Lehr, 82

“Gerry-with-a-G” was how she introduced herself to new friends.

Allyn W. Sheldon

A memorial service for Allyn W. Sheldon, 81, who died Feb. 1 will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 13, at Volunteer Park on U.S. 93 South in Lakeside.

Wade A. Mason, 86

Wade A. Mason, 86, passed away peacefully at home on April 28, 2017, surrounded by his loving wife and children.

Eloise McMillan, 93

Eloise McMillan, 93, of Kalispell, died May 4, 2017, in Kalispell.

Haskell 'Hack' V. Holeman, 90

On the morning of May 3, Hack Holeman passed away at 90 years of age, to the disbelief of many of his family and friends who knew him, proving he wasn’t immortal!

Scott R. Nieboer, 55

Scott R. Nieboer, of Nashville, Tennessee, beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend, passed away unexpectedly on April 25, 2017, at his cottage on Flathead Lake.

Howard Duane Hamilton, 87

Howard Duane Hamilton, 87, of Whitefish, passed away Dec. 12, 2016, at his home in Whitefish surrounded by those he loved dearly.

John 'Jack' James, 81

John “Jack” James passed away Tuesday the 24th of April, 2017, due to heart failure at home with his beloved wife, Christine, at his side.

Glacier advances singles player, 2 doubles teams to semifinals at Helena Invitational

HELENA — Glacier will have three players in semifinal action today at the Helena Invitational tennis tournament.

Frenchtown rallies by Polson in softball

FRENCHTOWN — Frenchtown rallied for a 6-5 Northwestern A softball league victory over Polson on Friday evening to stay undefeated in league play.

Hellgate knocks off Flathead

MISSOULA — Flathead held a 6-4 lead after two inning before a couple big innings allowed Missoula Hellgate to post a 19-9 Western AA softball victory Friday evening.

Forecast could dampen record-setting pace at Archie Roe Invitational

A forecasted light drizzle and temperatures in the 50s could put a damper on some of the record times that have fallen at the Archie Roe Invitational the last few seasons, but it won’t lessen the excitement as 15 of the best teams from the region converge today on Legends Stadium for one of the last big meets before the postseason.

Washington man faces drug charges in Flathead County

A man from Spokane Valley, Washington has been charged in Flathead County after authorities allegedly found more than 50 grams of meth in his hotel room.

Man claims road by throwing rocks

A man walking his dog down the middle of a road allegedly picked up a rock and chucked it through the windshield of a car when the driver reportedly honked at him to move, according to a Kalispell Police report.

Kalispell man arrested on rape, abuse charges

A Kalispell man was arrested on charges of rape and sexual abuse of children on May 3 after the father of a 15-year-old girl allegedly discovered an unfamiliar phone in her room.

Glacier grad heads to Kyrgyzstan

Kaitlyn Anderson, a 2015 Glacier High School graduate and University of Montana sophomore, will spend the upcoming academic year in Kyrgyzstan.

Cramped for space and full of students, Deer Park eyes expansion

Deer Park principal Dan Block doesn’t have to walk far to get a file. The bathroom just outside his office is stacked with them. There’s no room to store them elsewhere, so they sit in a bathtub that hasn’t been used in years.

FVCC graduate wins national botany award

A Flathead Valley Community College graduate has gained national attention for his research around how heavy-metal toxicity affects rain forests.

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- Memorial Prayer Walk, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 13, Flathead County. Opening ceremony 8-8:45 a.m. Depot Park, Kalispell. Law enforcement, fire fighters, EMTs gather to honor officers who died while on duty, those who have died in highway fatalities and safety for all drivers. Prayer walk 8:45-11:45 a.m. for 1-2-mile walk at assigned sites. Closing ceremony and prayer 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Depot Park.

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- Memorial Prayer Walk, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 13, Flathead County. Opening ceremony 8-8:45 a.m. Depot Park, Kalispell. Law enforcement, fire fighters, EMTs gather to honor officers who died while on duty, those who have died in highway fatalities and safety for all drivers. Prayer walk 8:45-11:45 a.m. for 1-2-mile walk at assigned sites. Closing ceremony and prayer 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Depot Park.

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- Memorial Prayer Walk, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 13, Flathead County. Opening ceremony 8-8:45 a.m. Depot Park, Kalispell. Law enforcement, fire fighters, EMTs gather to honor officers who died while on duty, those who have died in highway fatalities and safety for all drivers. Prayer walk 8:45-11:45 a.m. for 1-2-mile walk at assigned sites. Closing ceremony and prayer 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Depot Park.

Kalispell native takes part in Hindenburg commemoration

It was 80 years ago today the Hindenburg — the largest airship ever to grace the skies — erupted in a ball of fire and in less than a minute fell to Earth, killing 36 people.

Family, friends remember homicide victim

The loss of a Kalispell man who was the victim of an alleged homicide has left a hole in the lives of those who loved him.

C-Falls teens rise above the ranks to become U.S. Presidential Scholars

Columbia Falls High School seniors Annabel Conger and Colin Norick have accomplished an incredible feat.

Pence to campaign for Gianforte in Montana

WASHINGTON (AP) — Vice President Mike Pence plans to travel to Montana next week to campaign for a Republican congressional candidate running in a special election.

Flathead Basin Protection Fund asks for donations through Flathead Gives

This year, the Flathead Basin Protection Fund is participating in the Flathead Gives campaign to help pay to fight aquatic invasive species in Northwest Montana.

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I have Gianforte fatigue. When the last election ended, I was greatly relieved to see the end of the incessant, negative, misleading Gianforte ads. He is back again, dragging out the Nancy Pelosi boogeyman and trying to scare the hell out of people. The endless onslaught of attack ads has gone beyond annoying.

Spartans bring early boost to Flathead Valley

Fifth-annual obstacle race expected to draw more than 7,000 competitors

The unofficial start of summer in the Flathead Valley arrives caked in mud and sweat when the Montana Spartan Beast and Sprint races return to Quarter Circle Ranch at Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge in Bigfork this weekend.

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I have Gianforte fatigue. When the last election ended, I was greatly relieved to see the end of the incessant, negative, misleading Gianforte ads. He is back again, dragging out the Nancy Pelosi boogeyman and trying to scare the hell out of people. The endless onslaught of attack ads has gone beyond annoying.

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I have Gianforte fatigue. When the last election ended, I was greatly relieved to see the end of the incessant, negative, misleading Gianforte ads. He is back again, dragging out the Nancy Pelosi boogeyman and trying to scare the hell out of people. The endless onslaught of attack ads has gone beyond annoying.

Glacier overpowers Hellgate

Emma Shew was brilliant in the circle, Anna Schrade had a powerhouse day at the plate and the Glacier defense turned in a perfect game — no errors — to whip Missoula Hellgate 17-3 in Western AA softball action at Glacier High School on Thursday afternoon.

Whitefish whips Columbia Falls at FVCC tennis courts

Whitefish continues to prevail in those tight matches and that led to another dual victory for the girls tennis team on Thursday versus rival Columbia Falls at the Flathead Valley Community College Courts.

T-Falls edges Bigfork at St. Regis Invite

ST. REGIS — Both the Bigfork boys and girls were narrowly edged for the team title at the St. Regis Invitational, with Thompson Falls’ top golfers shooting the Blue Hawks to victory.

Volunteers step up to finish women's shelter

Peggy Christensen has spent a lifetime helping people. Now many people — including some of the homeless residents she has embraced — are pitching in to help make her dream of a women and children’s shelter come true.

Michael Lawrence Ratterree, 71

Michael passes away peacefully Monday, May 1, 2017, from lung cancer, at Immanuel Lutheran Home.

Donald Robert Stewart, 75

Donald Robert Stewart, of Arlee, passed away Wednesday, May 3, 2017,

How now, brown cow?

A brown cow was seen standing beside U.S. 2 East just north of the airport. Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies were unsure how the cow had escaped or where she came from.

Kalispell City Council appoints new BID board

Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson made appointments to all seven positions on the new Downtown Business Improvement District Board (BID) during the Kalispell City Council meeting Monday night.

Police arrest woman accused of car thefts

A Kalispell woman suspected of stealing three different vehicles over the last few days is now in custody after leading authorities on a pursuit through the Kalispell area.

Myrtle June 'June' Taormina, 91

Myrtle June Taormina, “June,” 91, of Great Falls, passed “into eternal life” on April 28, 2017.

Photography exhibit and discussion in Bigfork

Photographer John Stalowy and others participating in the “New Dimensions in Photography” exhibition will hold a gallery talk Friday, May 12 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Bigfork Art and Cultural Center.

FVCC alumni artwork on display at Hockaday

The Hockaday Museum of Art will showcase artwork by Flathead Valley Community College alumni artists as part of the college’s 50th anniversary commemoration, beginning with an opening reception Thursday, May 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the museum.

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Award-winning kids musician Bill Harley to play in Kalispell

Grammy award-winning children’s musician Bill Harley will play three days of shows in Kalispell, culminating with a public performance Friday at 7 p.m. at Flathead High School.

Three chosen for Bob Marshall Wilderness summer art program

The Flathead National Forest, Hockaday Museum of Art, Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation and Swan Valley Connections has selected three Montana artists to participate in the 2017 Artist-Wilderness-Connection program.

MADE IN MONTANA Local filmmakers take center stage in Bigfork

Ridge Mallery needed a Ford Taurus.

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World-renowned violinist ready to rock

Wai Mitzutani, the Juilliard-schooled violinist who has performed everywhere from the New York Philharmonic to the Korean Symphony Orchestra, is ready to let his hair down.

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Feast Whitefish festival returns May 12-20

The best food and drink in Stumptown takes center stage next week with the return of the annual Feast Whitefish, featuring special events, prix fixe meals and an outdoor hamburger showdown.

Portraits in Elegance

Diana Neville Knowles is a world-famous portrait artist who lives here in the Flathead Valley. In a professional career spanning over 65 years, she has done portraits of 18 presidents and numerous celebrities, a portrait of Pat Nixon that hangs in the Smithsonian and a portrait of me. Perhaps her pace has slowed from the 16 hour, 363 days a year schedule of her early career (she took Christmas and her birthday off), but she’s still going strong. And of all the portraits Diana has worked on, I’m most impressed by the one I did under her tutelage.

Company retaliated against black employee, agency finds

The Montana Human Rights Bureau has found reasonable cause to believe unlawful retaliation in the workplace occurred after a black team leader at TeleTech Services Corp. complained she was the target of racial discrimination at the Kalispell call center.

Revamped plan reduces commercial footprint

A revised U.S. 93 South Whitefish corridor plan that reduces the amount of commercial zoning along the highway will be considered by the Flathead County Planning Board next week.

Convicted C. Falls rapist sentenced

A convicted rapist from Columbia Falls on May 3 was sentenced to 30 years in Montana State Prison with 15 years suspended.

Volunteers provide women's health services on isolated Pacific island

From a wing in one of two hospitals serving the Marshall Islands, Flathead Valley medical workers joined a team of doctors to treat a growing line of patients, many who had waited years to visit a women’s health clinic.

Private schools allowed in new zoning districts

The Kalispell City Council in its meeting Monday night voted to amend the Kalispell Zoning Ordinance to allow for the development of private schools in business and residential zones.

North Kalispell commercial subdivision approved

Kalispell City Council on Monday approved a preliminary plat for a new commercial development in North Kalispell.

Bibler Home and Gardens host spring events

Flathead Valley Community College and the Bibler Foundation invite the public to tour the Bibler Home and Gardens this month and enjoy a gourmet Mother’s Day Brunch. Proceeds from the events will benefit scholarships for FVCC students.

Horsing around

BOZEMAN — Kayla Seaman has had a busy last few months to her college career.

Big Sky, Sentinel sweep Kalispell diamonds

Flathead worked the bats but couldn’t find runs in a pair of lopsided losses at Kidsports Complex on Wednesday.

Whitefish voters pass school levy

Voters living in Whitefish School District approved a levy request in Tuesday’s school elections, according to unofficial results.

Flathead principal takes job at FVCC

This is the final year Principal Peter Fusaro will greet students and staff with his motto — “every day is a great day at Flathead High School” — as he embarks on a new career at Flathead Valley Community College.

Carol L. Hartman, 92

Carol L. Hartman, 92, of Sublimity, Oregon, died April 27, 2017, in Salem, Oregon.

Emma Beatrice (Jones) Shero, 89

Emma Beatrice (Jones) Shero, 89, passed away of natural causes on April 9, 2017, in Kalispell with her caring daughter, Una, and friend, Peggy, by her side.

Bobbie Kay (Ostby) Beach, 72

Bobbie Kay Ostby was born Aug. 23, 1944, to Freda and Robert Ostby in Kalispell.

Tavia Jo Nesbit, 4 months

Tavia Jo Nesbit “received her angel wings” on Friday, April 21, 2017, just a short four months after she came into the world.

Boy starts day on the wrong foot

An ALERT rescue crew responded to a report of a young boy who had gotten his foot trapped between slabs of concrete by the dam, according to a Flathead County Sheriff’s report. The boy’s friends managed to get his foot free before the team arrived and determined it was broken.

Two Bear rescues skier injured in avalanche near Bozeman

The Two Bear Air Rescue helicopter airlifted a backcountry skier injured in an avalanche in the Crazy Mountains in Sweetgrass County on April 30.

Columbia Falls Chamber has new director

Columbia Falls Chamber of Commerce Member Services Administrator Laura Gadwa has stepped into the executive director position at the Chamber.

Rain delays Whitefish City Hall opening

An excessive amount of rain in recent weeks has caused a delay in opening the new Whitefish City Hall.

C-Falls, Polson shine at district music festival

Columbia Falls High School band and Polson High School choir competed recently at the district music festival. Participants were judged as either superior, excellent, good, fair or poor on a 1 to 5 scale.

Interviews reveal details in Evergreen homicide case

Interviews with the man charged in the homicide of Anthony Andrew Walthers on April 26 revealed his motive for allegedly throwing Walthers off the Old Steel Bridge into the Flathead River.

Quist adds $57K in income to disclosure report

HELENA — The Democratic candidate for Montana’s sole U.S. House seat, a cowboy poet and musician running for public office for the first time, underreported $57,000 in income when he filed federally required financial disclosure statements two months ago.

Columbia Falls library launches seed exchange

If you need seeds to grow your own peck of peppers this summer, ImagineIF Library in Columbia Falls can help.

Polls open today for school district elections

Polls will be open today for school district elections in Columbia Falls, Fair-Mont-Egan, Smith Valley and Whitefish.

Revised design considered for Raceway subdivision

A proposal to build a subdivision on acreage where the landmark Raceway Park operates is back on the Flathead County Planning Board agenda for a May 10 public hearing.

Lakers AA lash Mission Valley A, 21-0

The Kalispell Lakers AA team started fast and rolled in a 21-0 nonconference rout of Mission Valley on Tuesday at Griffin Field.

Wolfpack wallops Flathead

Glacier dominated the crosstown tennis meet on Tuesday, dropping just one match between the boys and girls duals.

Columbia Falls bombards Bravettes

Columbia Falls’ Trista Cowan hit a three-run home run in the seventh inning to cap an 11-1 win over Flathead on Tuesday at Kidsports Complex.

Columbia Falls, Whitefish split Nicosia track dual

COLUMBIA FALLS — The Columbia Falls boys and the Whitefish girls ran to victory at the Mike Nicosia Cat/Dog Dual on Tuesday at Columbia Falls Junior High.

Clifford Kracher, 91

Clifford Kracher, 91, passed away on Saturday, April 29, 2017, at his apartment in Buffalo Hill Terrace in Kalispell.

Suicide prevention courses grow beyond valley

A suicide prevention effort based in the Flathead Valley is working to reach into new territory in the hope of reducing Montana’s suicide rate, which continues to surpass national levels.

Presentation addresses challenges girls face in the era of social media

Navigating sex, dating, self-worth and relationships in the era of social media is challenging for girls and young women.

Man pleads guilty in child pornography case

A Kalispell man admitted on April 27 to possessing multiple pornographic images and movies of children on a laptop and multiple external hard drives.

Public defender reflects on journey

As one of Flathead County’s 14 public defenders, William Managhan — who says he never intended to become a lawyer in the first place — found a way to turn a personal cause into an education and ultimately a career.

Students participate in music festival

Forty bands, orchestras and choirs from nine schools participated in the District 1 Music Festival hosted by Flathead and Glacier high schools April 20-22.