Ellington

County attorney asks judge to dismiss homicide charge

The Flathead County Attorney’s Office filed a motion Monday to dismiss the homicide charge against James Quen of Martin City in the shooting death of Bradley Allen Winters, citing a lack of forensic evidence and a lack of cooperation by a critical witness who failed to respond to a subpoena.

Elderly woman takes on alleged dopers

An elderly woman in Hungry Horse, who had reached her limits, wanted a “civil standby to kick out all the dopers” from her house including her son. She was advised that her son, and all his friends who had been living there, would need to be legally evicted before Flathead County Sheriff’s Office could assist in removing the alleged dope fiends.

Flathead Valley welcomes 2019 with a thriving economy

Here we are at the threshold of a brand new year.

Cities focus on downtown strength

In 1964, singer Petula Clark turned the song “Downtown” into an unlikely international hit. A downtown booster group could have penned the lyrics.

Polar Plunge still going strong after quarter-century

People of all ages start out the new year by running into chilly waters

Sunriser fishing derby a family favorite

Hundreds of hardy anglers, young and old, were out in force Saturday on Smith Lake at the Sunriser Lions Club’s 48th annual ice fishing derby.

Residential construction continues at frenzied pace

Realtor demographics might be one of the best reflections of the state of home sales and residential development in the Flathead Valley.

Internet, phone outages wreak havoc again

For the second time in the span of a little more than a week, internet outages involving different service providers have wreaked havoc across the country for people trying to do business or enjoy some entertainment.

Ranch provides loving home for animals in need

All Mosta Ranch Montana is a nonprofit livestock rescue adoption and educational center in Marion whose mission is to provide a sustainable quality of life for abused, displaced, neglected or unwanted farm animals.

Flathead Electric project gives boost to solar-energy usage

While hydroelectric power likely will always be the top source of electricity in the Flathead Valley, solar energy is something that some denizens of Northwest Montana have chosen.

Timber industry still a driving economic force

After being with F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber Co. for more than four decades, Chuck Roady is encouraged about the future of the timber industry more than he has been for several years.

Landowners: What they don't know can hurt them

Last year, Pat McGlynn and a host of other presenters taught a small acreage landowner seminar for landowners who wanted to learn best practices for their properties.

A room with a view - of another roof Growth pains continue in Flathead Valley

Debbie Street recalls a childhood lived along Rose Crossing in Flathead County that included riding her pony into town for ice cream. The pony occasionally bucked her off. But she climbed back on.

Frank Edwin Mast, 90

Frank Edwin Mast was born Nov. 3, 1928 in White Sulfur Springs, MT, and passed away at North Valley Hospital on December 28, 2018 from complications of old age.

Rose Marie Nielsen, 93

Rose Marie (Clark) Nielsen, 93, passed on peacefully, Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2018, in Kalispell.

Nancy Lee Moore, 72

Nancy Moore, 72, of Kennewick, WA, ended her battle with Alzheimer’s disease the morning of Christmas Eve, surrounded by family.

Doreen Kay Nerison, 68

Doreen Kay Nerison was brought into the world on May 18, 1950, the youngest child of Kenneth and Verona Borgen.

Snow puts end to vandalism investigation

A man wanted to report incidents of vandalism to his equipment to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. He said he believed a boyfriend of an upstairs tenant was responsible and now had tracks in the snow to prove it. But his efforts were undone by the fact that there was no damage to either vehicle and the hood of the one truck had been closed, which he claimed had been opened. He was also further undone by the fact that the footprints were covered by snow and the size didn’t match the suspect’s boot size.

Skiers stuck on lift at Whitefish Mountain Resort

More than 100 skiers were stranded after a lift malfunctioned at Whitefish Mountain Resort on Saturday afternoon.

Filing period now open for area school trustee candidates

The filing period is open for people interested in becoming school board trustee candidates.

Planes, trains and automobiles U.S. 93 bypass, increased air service highlight transportation upgrades

When it comes to measuring the tangible economic development of transportation improvements in the Flathead Valley, the U.S. 93 bypass around Kalispell stands head and shoulders above the upgrades seen over the last decade.

Kootenai National Forest offers fire salvage sales

Wild fires in 2017 and 2018 burned more than 100,000 acres of the Kootenai National Forest and the U.S. Forest Service has responded with fire salvage timber sales in the burned areas.

Hospital to focus on repairing trust with community

Growth can be difficult to measure, especially for an ever-changing industry such as health care.

Juvenile sidesteps scary, but tethered, German shepherd

A 12-year-old boy attempting to cross a street in Kalispell said a German shepherd owned by a transient man tried to attack him. The good news was the dog was tied up and had limited mobility, according to the Kalispell Police Department.

Judge rejects plea deal for homicide suspect

Homicide suspect James Quen of Martin City will remain in jail after Flathead County District Judge Heidi Ulbricht rejected a plea agreement in court Friday. Quen is charged with the deliberate homicide of Bradley Allen Winters on April 25.

County taxpayers invest heavily in education

The last decade has been one of transformation and growth for several school districts in the Flathead Valley.

Former Flathead commissioner depends on blood donations

Nine years ago Dale Lauman of Lakeside was diagnosed with lymphoma. The retired postal worker and former Flathead County commissioner has since undergone chemotherapy, affecting his bone marrow and making it difficult for his body to produce red blood cells.

Update: boy who shot himself was 16, not 8

What initially was thought to be an 8-year-old boy turned out to be a 16-year-old who accidentally shot himself in the thigh with a .22 on McCaffery Road in Bigfork, according to a report from Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. A friend called in the report. The teen also had a minor hand wound.

Kalispell school district seeks to fill board vacancy

Kalispell Public Schools is seeking to fill a school board vacancy representing the elementary district.

Weekend update

Lions fishing derby

Sperry Chalet reconstruction focus of open house

The National Park Service and Glacier National Park Conservancy will host an evening about Sperry Chalet Tuesday, Jan. 8, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Kalispell.

Celebrate Climate Smart art and sustainability

Climate Smart Glacier Country is hosting a “Climate Smart Art” contest and is accepting submissions that capture the spirit of sustainability and climate preparedness in the local communities.

Harpdog Brown brings the blues to Eureka

Harpdog Brown takes Chicago Blues down to New Orleans for a unique and vibrant sound.

Critically acclaimed film 'Wildlife' screened at Museum at Central School

The Museum at Central School will host a one-night screening of the Montana Film Festival Roadshow’s Montana-made, critically acclaimed feature film “Wildlife” at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 11, at the Museum at Central School, 124 Second Ave E., in Kalispell. This may be the only chance to see this film playing in Kalispell.

Weekly events Dec. 27 - Jan. 2

THURSDAY, DEC. 27

Make it a memorable New Year's Eve

By CAROL MARINO

Bigfork Playhouse Children's Theatre holds auditions

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theater invites students in grades two through six to audition, Tuesday, Jan. 8, for the cast of “The Great Ghost Chase.”

Memoir highlights pioneer women

In her memoir, “Montana Women, From the Ground Up: Passionate Voices in Agriculture and Land Conservation,” writer Kristin Ellis creates portraits of pioneering women who share their experiences of growing up and raising families on farms and ranches in Montana’s vast landscape.

DeNae Weimer teaches watercolor course

The Kalispell Senior Center is sponsoring a six-week watercolor course taught by DeNae Weimer.

Compromise for a greater good

I met President George H. W. Bush, our 41st president, when he was a former president campaigning in Great Falls in 2000 for his son, then presidential candidate George W. Bush.

John Douglas Opalka, 80

Dr. John Douglas Opalka was born Jan. 14, 1938, to William and Anna Opalka in Columbia Falls.

Letters to the editor Dec. 27

I have read the Peoples Compact, available online. It is mostly an easy read and certainly very thorough. Most people would agree that having a compact is better than no compact. I support a good compact. Support is necessary and like any good idea, it must be shared. The action necessary is simply to write a one paragraph personal letter to Sen. Steve Daines, Sen. Tester and Rep. Greg Gianforte. Encourage our elected officials to read and to support an alternative water compact. Time is of the essence. A new narrative, is that so bad? Truly the worst case in doing your own research is to better understand what all the hub bub is about. Montana’s future water uses are a pretty big deal. There is nothing to lose and likely everything to gain upon educating yourself.

Farm bill a big win for every American

It didn’t appear in many front-page headlines, but Congress just passed a five-year, $867 billion piece of legislation in a bipartisan, landslide vote. In today’s political climate, this kind of thing doesn’t happen very often but when it does, it should be newsworthy. The fact that it was buried far below White House gossip and college sports scandals in major media outlets isn’t because Congress is avoiding transparency. It’s because we are an increasingly urban nation and the Farm Bill just isn’t on most people’s radar.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drive, 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., Moose Lodge.

Record low jobless rate forces employers to get creative

Record low unemployment rates across the country have infiltrated the Flathead Valley as well, but with so many doors opening for employees, local employers are having to get creative in how they recruit, hire and retain workers, according to Laura Gardner, manager of Job Service Kalispell.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drive, 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., Moose Lodge.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drive, 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., Moose Lodge.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drive, 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., Moose Lodge.

Martin City man to plead guilty in April killing

A Martin City man accused of shooting another man in Hungry Horse in April has agreed to plead guilty to negligent homicide.

Commercial growth still brisk, but slowdown may be in sight

After years of frenzied retail construction in Kalispell, the city might be looking at a lull in commercial building.

Local efforts underway to handle increased tourism

People are flocking to Northwest Montana like never before, and with increases in visitation come additional visitor dollars, traffic and impact in the Flathead Valley and its communities.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Spring Hill Suites.

Ex attacks in attempt to win man back

An alleged hysterical ex believed the way to win a man’s heart back was to kick in his door and scratch his face then call her friends to come over. The man, who reported the alleged attack to Kalispell Police Department, said she might be under the influence and went outside with his 4-year-old.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Spring Hill Suites.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Spring Hill Suites.

Steven Drent, 63

Steven Drent, 63, of Kalispell, passed away of complications during a surgery Wednesday, Dec. 19 in Kalispell.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Spring Hill Suites.

State seeks input on Montana 35 improvements

The Montana Department of Transportation is asking for public input on a proposal to study improvement options on a segment of Montana 35 east of Kalispell.

Montana East-West Shrine Game rosters announced

Several local football players have been honored as participants in the 73rd Annual Montana East-West Shrine Game.

Comments sought on migratory waterfowl haven

Wildlife officials say migratory waterfowl seeking a place for resting and refueling find both at the North Shore Wildlife Management Area along Flathead Lake.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Spring Hill Suites.

Nativity silhouette a reminder of the Christmas story

Hanging 16 feet tall and 12 feet wide above the congregation of Family Life Christian Church in Kalispell, a silhouetted mural of Joseph, Mary and the infant Jesus stands as a fresh reminder of the power and beauty behind the Christmas story, according to the mural’s creator.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Spring Hill Suites.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Spring Hill Suites.

Eugene Ewalt Hamann, 87

Eugene Ewalt Hamann, 87, died Dec. 18, 2018, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 12:30-4:30 p.m. Spring Hill Suites.

Alleged DUIer hits building and man

A drunk driver reportedly hit a building on Idaho Street and a maintenance man before driving off to a gas station according to a report from Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. The victim refused medial attention. The man was also seen doing doughnuts in a parking lot. The man was taken to the hospital for a blood draw.

Child hit by vehicle injures foot

Kalispell Police Department responded to a vehicle that reportedly hit a 7-year-old behind a business on U.S. 93 North. The child was conscious and breathing, but unable to get up and had a badly bleeding foot.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drive, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

An Old-Fashioned Christmas

The wind buffeted the old ranch house with wild abandon. Situated on a point of rock overlooking a meadow and two pastures, there was nothing to arrest the wind before the onslaught. Slivers of light peaked out between the drawn curtains in two of the rooms. The rest of the windows remained dark and blind. A thick frost formed on their panes like cataracts.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drive, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drive, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Message of beloved carol still resonates 200 years later

In 1818 — 200 Christmases ago — one of the most iconic songs of the season was born among a gathering of Christians in Austria, a simple melody with simple words that captured the hearts of those listening.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drive, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Attic fire causes damage, no injuries

Kalispell and Evergreen fire departments responded to a structure fire on 329 Sixth Ave. W. around 2:54 a.m. Sunday.

Flooring business spruces up downtown corner

When Paul Roybal purchased a historic 21,000-square-foot space in downtown Kalispell, he was well aware of how much work it would take to make it a proper home for Roybal’s Abbey Carpet and Floor.

Letters to the editor Dec. 23

Just a note about Dr. Boharski’s letter Dec. 9, having used that facility for myself, my wife, my parents and brothers for over 40 years I feel qualified to comment.

The missing debate about health care

One sad legacy of the lead up to the election of a new President in 2016, and a new Congress this November, was the absence of a serious and sustained debate by candidates about health care. How do we increase access to affordable health care to more Americans and at the same time reduce its costs? The Republican focus on health care is almost entirely about repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) without offering a viable alternative. The Democrats alternatively believe in protecting the ACA but with improvements.

Consumer pays for hospital's mismanagement

I still am having difficulty resolving the issues surrounding Kalispell Regional Healthcare so amply illuminated this past year. The signs of mismanagement were clearly evident for many years as I observed during my time on the board (with nearly 7,000 health-care members) of the Flathead Business and Industry Association — overbuilding, poor business decisions and, in my opinion, Velinda Stevens’ quest to build an empire without regard to cost, to name a few.

Imagination, creativity showcased in local artist's unique work

The website for Veer Off Industrial Designs features a gallery of creations by concrete artist Trevor Osburn. The photos show the basic look of Osburn’s finished products, but they don’t do justice to the skill and imaginative touches of his craftsmanship.

Dance group draws on variety of faiths to find connection

The beat of a drum keeps time for the participants of the Kalispell chapter of Dances of Universal Peace as they danced in a circle, singing along to songs in various languages, taken from various religious traditions.

Leaving with 'indelible memories' of The Bob

Carol Treadwell knows what she won’t miss about her job.

Trade conflicts affect pulse-crop exports in Montana

Effects of the ongoing trade disputes between the United States and its international trading partners have rippled into Montana, particularly with pulse crops such as chickpeas, beans and lentils.

Fairgrounds see steady increase in attendance, events

Newly released data from the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell shows the property has experienced a spike in both overall attendance and the number of events held at the facility over the last five years.

Harold Tutvedt, 89

Harold Tutvedt went to Heaven to be with the love of his life on Friday, Dec. 14, 2018.

Mechanic's Liens

Liens filed

Pig's potbelly is getting smaller

The potbelly pig has resurfaced in Columbia Falls again! A person called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report she had it in her goat pen, but it appeared to be pretty thin, which might make it less than a potbelly.

Be wary of online offers for 'risk-free' subscription trials

They are all over the internet — ads and links leading to pictures of celebrities and “miracle” products that promise easy weight loss, whiter teeth or disappearing wrinkles.

Clifford Patrick Schellinger, 90

Clifford Patrick Schellinger, 90, joined his heavenly father on Dec. 17, 2018, at his home in Eltopia, Washington, with Vernell, his loving wife and partner of 38 years, by his side.

Peace on Earth comes from within

Another Christmas is nearly upon us, and amid the busyness of the season there’s a yearning for the one thing that has escaped us for all time: peace on Earth.

Bigfork blasts C-Falls, 70-20

COLUMBIA FALLS – Colton Reichenbach scored a career-high 19 as Bigfork coasted to a 70-20 nonconference boys basketball victory over Columbia Falls on Saturday at Columbia Falls High School.

Flathead wrestlers second overall at Best of the West tourney

PASCO, Wash. – The Flathead wrestling team took second in the Best of the West individual tournament, and Tanner Russell racked up four pins to take first place at 170 pounds.

FCS coaches name Olson a First-Team All-American

In the Chinese zodiac, the number five is associated with people who are hard-working and courageous, among other noble characteristics.

Limited services at Glacier during shutdown

Services at Glacier National Park will be limited during the government shutdown, the park announced Saturday, but roads and trails will still remain accessible.

Kalispell skijoring races moved to March

Skijoring at Rebecca Farm has been rescheduled to the weekend of March 2 and 3 due to the lack of snow on the ground and in the forecast for the coming week. The event was originally scheduled for Dec. 29 and 30.

Evergreen excellence

The Evergreen School Board was recognized as one of two “Honor School Boards of the Year” by the Montana Association of School Superintendents.

C-Falls student team excels at business simulation competition

The Columbia Falls High School team “Inkomo Inc.” took second place for the Montana Business Challenge’s fall semester.

Bigfork residents sound off on permit proposal

More than a dozen Bigfork residents attended a public hearing on Thursday to discuss if the Land Use Advisory Committee should continue to be allowed to review conditional-use permits.

Keeping hunting season going with decoys

A man called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report men shooting shotguns at decoys. He thought they were on his side of the river. A dispatcher said it could be a hunting violation.

Local graduates featured in 'New Montana Voices'

High school students from around the state are the “New Montana Voices.”

Glacier downed by Bozeman

Despite a 23-point effort from Bret Michaels, Glacier fell to Bozeman 58-47 in Class AA boys basketball action on Friday at Glacier High School.

Braves grapplers take second in duals at Best of the West

PASCO, Wash., – The Flathead wrestling team won four duals before falling in the championship match to take second place at the Best of the West duals event in Pasco, Wash., on Friday.

Bobcats begin building process at line of scrimmage

BOZEMAN – Montana State football coach Jeff Choate’s philosophy of winning football games from the line of scrimmage out was on full display Wednesday, when he announced the first 17 members of the 2018-19 Bobcat recruiting class.

Spectrum outage affects Flathead Valley

Spectrum customers across the country and in the Flathead Valley were affected by a widespread outage Friday afternoon.

'Secret Santa' pays it forward

The Christmas season got a lot brighter for more than a dozen families in the Flathead Valley after a “Secret Santa” paid for their layaway purchases at the Kmart in Evergreen.

Eureka water meetings yield 'peace of mind'

Mike Cuffe lowered his well pump a few years back to keep the water flowing. He speculated then that increased development in the region might have affected the aquifer serving his well.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Glacier Bank, Main Street.

Flathead Republican Women note 80-year milestone

The Flathead County Republican Women reached another milestone this year, celebrating the club’s 80th anniversary.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Glacier Bank, Main Street.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Glacier Bank, Main Street.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Glacier Bank, Main Street.

Dogs pose with Santa at Bigfork event

Bigfork went to the dogs Friday night as pups of all ages, sizes and breeds gathered with their humans to have their pictures made with Santa Claus and enjoy a community bonfire.

Agencies investigate two grizzly shootings near St. Ignatius

The Confederated Salish Kootenai Tribes and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are seeking information on the shootings of two female grizzly bears on the Flathead Reservation that occurred more than two months ago.

Blacktail Mountain to open Saturday

Blacktail Mountain Ski Area above Lakeside will open for the season on Saturday.

Ryan Roy Quimby, 19

Ryan Roy Quimby passed away on Dec. 16, 2018, while in Kalispell.

Mayme Mullis, 92

On Dec. 15, 2018, Mayme Mullis passed from this life to her heavenly home surrounded by her family.

Pharmacy benefit manager settles case with state

Prime Therapeutics, the pharmacy benefit manager of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana, has settled a case with the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Office and agreed to pay up to $375,000 for an independent examination of its data.

Kalispell boy goes the distance to help Toys for Tots

Carter Colby of Kalispell puts his heart into making sure local kids have a toy for Christmas.

New developments in the sky and on the ground

American Airlines, the world’s largest passenger airline company, announced last week that it will service Glacier Park International Airport with three summer flights beginning in June. The new destinations include Dallas, Los Angeles and Chicago.

FVCC enrollment shows slight increase

This fall’s enrollment numbers at Flathead Valley Community College showed a continued correlation between record-low unemployment rates in the valley and the number of credits students are taking, according to President Jane Karas.

Delno Huber Moore, 93

Delno Huber Moore passed away Dec. 17, 2018.

Letters to the editor Dec. 20

So where is the outrage? Where are the lawsuits?

Bear spray aimed at dog ends up on boy's face

A man deployed bear spray at a dog that purportedly charged at him. Things went awry when the wind carried the spray into the face of a 6-year-old who was standing around the corner of a camper on Montana 40 in Columbia Falls. And, it turns out, the dog was on a chain. The man did not want to pursue vicious dog charges and the dog’s owner believed his son getting sprayed was an accident. The dog’s owner was advised on county ordinances regarding vicious dogs, rabies and licensing, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Fast start leads Wildkats over Bigfork

BIGFORK – Columbia Falls scored 30 points in the first quarter on its way to a 78-47 victory over Bigofrk in nonconference girls basketball on Thursday at Bigfork High School.

Libby edges Whitefish in duals

WHITEFISH – Libby/Troy edged Whitefish 40-36 to pick up a victory in Western A wrestling action on Thursday at Whitefish High School.

Lady Griz roll into break with 81-49 win

Playing for the first time since Feb. 3, when she crashed to the floor with a season-ending knee injury against North Dakota, Sophia Stiles didn’t waste any time on Thursday night reminding people what was lost that day and what the Lady Griz had been missing in the interim.

Montana Football: Olson named First Team All-American Defense by HERO Sports

Dante Olson has added another trophy to the case. The prolific junior linebacker landed his fourth first-team All-America honor in the past week on Wednesday by online FCS news outlet HERO Sports.

Griz ink 21 in Montana-heavy early signing period

Montana head coach Bobby Hauck filled his team’s coffers with 20 prep stars and one transfer on the first day of the December early signing period to make a total of 21 new Grizzlies.

The good stuff

In my last column, I spoke of the excitement I was facing as I prepared for the St. Paul ice fishing show, not just for the opportunity to speak to show goers about the fishing opportunities Montana has to offer, but to actually see and experience all the new products that are introduced there every year.

Plea deal reached for Big Arm man facing homicide charge

A jury trial was vacated earlier this week in a homicide case where a Ronan woman died after she was allegedly pushed from a moving vehicle in Lake County.

No headline

- Flathead County Water and Sewer District-Evergreen meets 7 a.m., District Office, 130 Nicholson Drive.

Two Bear touts new rescue detector

Two Bear Air has stepped up its efforts to find backcountry travelers in peril.

Group to discuss proposed change in permit reviews

The Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee will hold a public meeting Thursday to address whether or not its members should be allowed to make conditional-use permit recommendations to the Flathead County Board of Adjustment.

No headline

- Flathead County Water and Sewer District-Evergreen meets 7 a.m., District Office, 130 Nicholson Drive.

John Frederick 'Jack' Bostedt, 90

Jack Bostedt passed away in Kalispell at age 90 on Dec. 10, 2018.

No headline

- Flathead County Water and Sewer District-Evergreen meets 7 a.m., District Office, 130 Nicholson Drive.

No headline

- Flathead County Water and Sewer District-Evergreen meets 7 a.m., District Office, 130 Nicholson Drive.

Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation to search for new director

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation announced Monday that Carol Treadwell, executive director, is leaving the job after a seven-year tenure that the foundation’s chairwoman described in glowing terms.

Ethel Mae Boggs, 96

Ethel Mae Boggs, 96, passed away peacefully on Dec. 17, 2018, in Kalispell at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Columbia Falls debate team on a winning streak

Columbia Falls High School Speech and Debate is on a roll, winning its sixth tournament in Frenchtown on Saturday.

Potbelly pigs out on freedom in C-Falls

A potbelly pig — possibly the same one that was reported gallivanting on Generation Way the previous day — made the rounds to Tamarack Lane in Columbia Falls where someone found it and placed it in a corral, where it spent some time hanging out with a bull.

Kalispell sets tax-increment district hearing

Kalispell City Council unanimously passed its two main agenda items at its Dec. 17 meeting.

Jack Avis Jarrett , 93

Jack Avis Jarrett , 93, of Whitefish, passed away Sunday, Dec. 16, 2018; he lived a life many would envy.

Roger L. Chilcote, 81

Roger L. Chilcote, 81, passed away Dec. 7, 2018, from complications from a fall.

Pirates roll in wrestling duals

COLUMBIA FALLS – Polson defeated both Corvallis and Columbia Falls in duals hosted by the Matcats on Tuesday.

Four Griz, Four Bobcats earn All-America honors

Montana junior linebacker Dante Olson has picked up his third First-Team All-America award in the past week, and three other Grizzlies have also been named All-Americans in a trio of releases on Monday and Tuesday.

Bobcats fight but come up short

BOZEMAN — For most of the non-conference season Montana State head coach Tricia Binford looked toward MSU’s game against South Dakota State. It would be a measuring stick for the Bobcat program- a glimpse for where she wants to take the team.

Vietnam War keepsake stolen from local VFW

Members of the Glacier Park VFW Post 2252 in Kalispell are wondering why someone would steal a keepsake commemorating the Vietnam War.

Driver injured after car goes airborne, hits house

A bizarre crash on Foy’s Lake Road Tuesday afternoon sent one man to the hospital.

PHOTOS: Community celebrates South Fork bridge

The South Fork Bridge on U.S. 2 in Hungry Horse opened to traffic Tuesday afternoon following a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Officials ID man who died in Hungry Horse car fire

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed the identity of a man who died in a Dec. 8 car fire near Lion Lake in the Hungry Horse area as Conrad Peak, 77.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: noon to 5 p.m. Eureka Baptist Church; noon to 4:15 p.m. Lakeside QRU.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: noon to 5 p.m. Eureka Baptist Church; noon to 4:15 p.m. Lakeside QRU.

Escaped pig finds hog heaven in C-Falls

A potbelly pig was seen hamming it up around Columbia Falls when someone spotted it on their Generation Way property before it headed toward Fourth Avenue West North. The person told police they had a photo of the pinkish white swine if needed. The pig’s owner described it as an escape artist to Flathead County Sheriff’s Office and claimed he was putting up a “hot wire” to keep it contained.

Developer proposes wellness facility for 95 Karrow

The developer of the 95 Karrow mixed-use project on the former Idaho Timber property in Whitefish is asking for an amendment to accommodate a wellness facility on the site.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: noon to 5 p.m. Eureka Baptist Church; noon to 4:15 p.m. Lakeside QRU.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: noon to 5 p.m. Eureka Baptist Church; noon to 4:15 p.m. Lakeside QRU.

Flathead rebounds, takes first at Helena tourney

Flathead High School Speech and Debate prevailed at the Helena City of Gold tournament over the weekend.

Fire destroys camper, damages home

A large camper all but melted into a puddle and an adjacent home was heavily damaged in a fire on First Avenue South in Hungry Horse Monday afternoon.

Judge gives county deadline for decision

Flathead County officials have until Dec. 31 to decide whether Montana Artesian Water Co. is in violation of the Egan Slough Zoning District regulations for operating its Creston water bottling plant, according to an order issued Friday by Flathead District Judge Robert Allison.

New South Fork bridge to be unveiled

Motorists and bicyclists heading through Bad Rock Canyon on U.S. 2 will soon likely enjoy safer, smoother passage over the South Fork of the Flathead River at the edge of Hungry Horse.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whitefish High School; 1-6 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Chief ALERT pilot draws from wealth of experience

As a pilot flying helicopters all over the world, Matt Weller has a few stories to share.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whitefish High School; 1-6 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whitefish High School; 1-6 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Tax-increment district, parking zone on agenda

A proposed tax increment Financing district and the second reading of an extension to a parking zone near Flathead High School are the main agenda items for tonight’s Kalispell City Council meeting.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whitefish High School; 1-6 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Man calls 911 for ride to mom's house

A man on U.S. 93 South called 911 and sniffled before hanging up. He called back saying “I need a ride to my mom’s house,” and hung up. Upon reconnecting, he pleaded again for a ride to his mom’s and dispatchers apparently heard another man in the background saying something about him “wigging out.” Dispatchers told the man to stop calling 911.

Vern R. Stewart, 92

Vern R. Stewart died peacefully in his sleep at Immanuel Lutheran Home Dec. 15, 2018.

Letters to the editor Dec. 16

Many, many thanks to Dr. Boharski for his honest facts regarding the dishonest Kalispell Regional Medical Center. It’s long overdue and greatly appreciated.

CSKT compact is good for Montana agriculture

The success of Montana’s agriculture industry is dependent upon water and water right certainty. It is easily the single most important resource for people across Montana, which is why ratification of the negotiated Montana CSKT Water Compact is critical.

Sheriff wraps up long career in law enforcement

This time, it’s for good.

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- Kalispell Civil Air Patrol lays wreaths at 9 a.m., Glacier Memorial Gardens, then at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery and Woodlawn Cemetery, Columbia Falls. Public welcome to assist.

Heloshi Kusumoto, 89

Heloshi Kusumoto passed away on Nov. 22, 2018. Losh was a kind, generous, and loving husband, father, son, brother and friend. He was born on Oct. 19, 1929 … the start of the Great Depression … at the Triple Divide railroad siding on the Blackfoot Reservation near Durham, Montana.

It's time to invest in our public trails

Regardless of whether you hike, ride horses, mountain bike, or prefer off-highway vehicles, we all depend on a well-funded and well-maintained trail system in Montana.

Building permits

WHITEFISH

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- Kalispell Civil Air Patrol lays wreaths at 9 a.m., Glacier Memorial Gardens, then at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery and Woodlawn Cemetery, Columbia Falls. Public welcome to assist.

Truss, wall operation expands in C-Falls

Crews at Western Building Center’s truss and wall plant in Columbia Falls recently moved into a new 24,000-square-foot facility as demand for housing and commercial framing continues to grow.

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- Kalispell Civil Air Patrol lays wreaths at 9 a.m., Glacier Memorial Gardens, then at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery and Woodlawn Cemetery, Columbia Falls. Public welcome to assist.

Glenna Jean Fredenberg, 73

Glenna Jean Fredenberg, 73, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2018, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Student needs increasing in face of dwindling outside resources

When asked if the mental-health needs of their high school students are being met, Flathead County principals, counselors and school-based therapists answered separately, but unanimously — there is a lot of need, and at times, the needs are overwhelming the available resources.

Trip to Mexico starts with comedy of errors

We landed Thanksgiving Day in Cancun for our daughter’s destination wedding and, after shuffling through customs, headed to baggage claim.

C-Falls resort tax worthy of consideration

Last month we reported that Columbia Falls is considering a resort tax as a way to pay for expanded emergency services and reduce property taxes in the city. It would be prudent for city residents to keep an open mind about this revenue-generating tool that has proven to be wildly successful in other Montana communities faced with the strains brought about by Montana’s booming tourism economy.

Keep checks and balances in House

Should your Montana House of Representatives move away from Constitutional Republic?

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- Kalispell Civil Air Patrol lays wreaths at 9 a.m., Glacier Memorial Gardens, then at C.E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery and Woodlawn Cemetery, Columbia Falls. Public welcome to assist.

Ira James 'Jake' Heckathorn, 95

Ira James “Jake” Heckathorn, 95, of Whitefish, grudgingly succumbed to chronic medical conditions on Dec. 5, 2018, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls; he retired from the Army with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Police warned North Fork man may be fugitive

Someone told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office that a Polebridge resident who had been working on and off at his property may be a wanted man. The caller said the man hadn’t been forthcoming with his information or address.

PHOTOS: Flathead vs. Columbia Falls basketball

Flathead and Columbia Falls squared off in boys’ and girls’ high school basketball action at Flathead High School in Kalispell on Saturday.

Groundwater origins are focus of Eureka meetings

Mike Cuffe spoke first about the sort of conflict Monday’s meetings near Eureka hope to avoid.

Firefighters battle West Valley fire

Firefighters from three companies battled a small structure fire Saturday evening in the hills above West Valley.

FVHS beats Stillwater boys, SCS girls win 40-24

Spencer Burden had 27 points for Flathead Valley Home School as the Crusaders rolled over Stillwater Christian School 59-49 on Friday night at Stillwater.

Flathead grapplers fifth after first day of tourney

COEUR d’ALENE, Idaho – Flathead is off to a strong start at the Tri-State Wrestling Tournament, sitting in fifth place after one day of action.

Glacier's Marin and Ronan's Mays set to meet in CMR Classic semis

GREAT FALLS – Glacier’s Colby Marin and Ronan’s Justin Mays will meet in today’s 205-pound semifinal at the C.M. Russell Holiday Wrestling Classic,

Montana LB Olson named Walter Camp All-American

Record-breaking Montana linebacker Dante Olson has added another All-American accolade to his resume after leading the nation in tackles during the regular season.

Trump says Interior Secretary Zinke leaving administration

WASHINGTON (AP) — Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, who is facing federal investigations into his travel, political activity and potential conflicts of interest, will leave the administration at year’s end, President Donald Trump said Saturday.

Margaret 'Margie' Helen Neary, 81

Margaret “Margie” Helen Neary, 81, of Kalispell, “went home to be with the Lord” and family on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2018.

Board mulls $1.2M high school levy

Taxpayers may see a $1.2 million general-fund levy request on the May 2019 ballot for Kalispell Public Schools’ high school district.

As finals week bears down, FVCC offers help with stress

Flathead Valley Community College students have reached the end of the semester, but before they can relax and enjoy their Christmas break, they have to get through one of the most stressful times of the year—finals week.

Teenager gets comfy in vibrating chair

A teenaged boy got very comfortable in a vibrating chair at the mall, according to a person who called the Kalispell Fire Department. When people tried to wake him, he didn’t respond. When a firefighter arrived, he woke the boy, who said he was just sleeping.

Whitefish's Ring swims to two wins in Missoula

MISSOULA – The Flathead and Glacier swim teams had solid showings at this weekend’s Missoula Swim Meet despite missing some of their top swimmers, and Whitefish’s Preston Ring took the top prize in two events.

Flathead boys sink Wildcats, 57-43

Wildkats edge Bravettes

Local wrestlers finish tourneys with solid placings

GREAT FALLS – Several local grapplers had strong outings at the C.M. Russell Holiday Wrestling Classic in Great Falls this weekend.

Washington tops Montana 69-54

SEATTLE – Washington used a third-quarter surge to open up what had been a tight contest and went on to a 69-54 victory over Montana on Saturday afternoon in the opening game of the Husky Classic in Seattle.

PHOTOS: Stillwater Christian vs. Flathead Valley Homeschool

Stillwater Christian School and Flathead Valley Homeschool squared off in boys’ and girls’ basketball action at Stillwater Christian School in Kalispell on Friday.

Fugitive jailed after Foy's Lake area chase

A man who was on the Montana Department of Corrections’ most-wanted fugitives list earlier this fall is now sitting in the Flathead County Jail after he led law enforcement officers on a chase Monday west of Kalispell.

C-Falls veteran admits benefits fraud

A Columbia Falls man accused of stealing government benefits by overstating his disabilities admitted fraud and theft charges in federal court Wednesday, according to, U.S. Attorney Kurt G. Alme said Friday.

Mexico citizen admits illegal re-entry after being found by Glacier rangers

A citizen of Mexico admitted Dec. 11 in federal court to being in the United States illegally after Glacier National Park personnel found him Sept. 24 walking while on patrol, according to the U.S. Attorney’s office.

Browning woman admits embezzlement of Blackfeet Head Start

Browning resident Denise L. Sharp, 60, who worked for the Blackfeet Tribe’s Head Start Program, admitted in federal court Tuesday to stealing money through an overall scheme involving others, in which an estimated $232,000 was fraudulently claimed as overtime pay, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Missoula.

C-Falls takes back bell-ringing title

After all the donations were counted, Columbia Falls emerged as the winner of Thursday’s Salvation Army red-kettle community challenge.

Richard 'Dick' Nelson Field, 84

Richard “Dick” Nelson Field, 84, of Whitefish, died Friday, Dec. 7, 2018, after an extended illness.

Orville Ray 'OT' Thomas, 83

Orville Ray “OT” Thomas passed away Friday, Nov. 23, 2018, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Norman Eugene Hagen, 81

Norman Eugene Hagen, 81, passed away peacefully on ec. 11, 2018, in Columbia Falls at home with his wife, Mary Ann, by his side.

Legislation aims to help Navy vets exposed to Agent Orange

Flathead County resident Gary Thompson is a Blue Water veteran, a term given to those who served on open ships off the shore of Vietnam during the Vietnam War. He clearly recalls the details of his offshore encounters with Agent Orange, a blend of toxic herbicides used by the United States military during the war to clear thick jungle foliage.

County scraps scenic corridor sign change, for now

A proposed zoning text amendment that would have allowed more road signs along the county’s scenic corridor overlay was sidelined, at least temporarily, amid opposition during a public hearing Thursday before the Flathead County commissioners.

Neighbors frighten real-estate agent

A real-estate agent ran into trouble while attempting to take photos of a property on U.S. 2 in Marion for a client who was selling it. Apparently, neighbors yelled at her to get off the property. Lucky for her they kept the pitchforks and torches at home. The incident made an impact, however, as she allegedly was afraid to return to the scene.

Weekend update

Veterans open house

American to service Kalispell with new flights

American Airlines, the world’s largest airline company, will offer three new daily flights next summer servicing Glacier Park International Airport.

Evergreen couple exemplifies spirit of giving

Last year the Evergreen Chamber of Commerce established the Brent Hall award to honor community members who exemplify “a spirit of giving, community and business leadership, volunteerism and advocacy for the support of others.”

Economic development group touts 2018 successes

Montana West Economic Development celebrated a year of success at its annual meeting for members and supporters in Kalispell Wednesday.

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- Creston School board meets 7 a.m.

Letters to the editor Dec. 13

I recently read the following: When asked how she could work with those dirty, sick people on the streets of India, Mother Teresa replied, “Every one of them is Jesus in a different disguise.”

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- Creston School board meets 7 a.m.

Red-kettle competition underway today

Communities across the Flathead Valley will be helping out the Salvation Army’s red-kettle fundraising campaign today by ringing bells for the annual bell-ringing competition.

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- Creston School board meets 7 a.m.

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- Creston School board meets 7 a.m.

Regional lawmakers tout alternative water compact

An eight-person panel took turns Monday night blasting the existing water compact and singing the praises of an alternative proposal.

Big 4th quarter powers Glacier over CFalls

COLUMBIA FALLS – Glacier outscored Columbia Falls 22-7 in the fourth quarter en route to a 58-44 victory over the Wildcats in nonconference boys basketball action on Thursday night at Columbia Falls High School.

Burglar steals cash and tools from Flathead High School

The Kalispell Police Department is looking for a man who broke into Flathead High School early Tuesday morning and stole cash and tools while causing considerable damage.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., Flathead Electric, Kalispell.

New guidebook communicates author's love for national parks

Becky Lomax’s latest guidebook reveals on page 725 an important clue to her lifelong and full-hearted embrace of national parks.

Food-truck workers say God intervened before crash

Two MudMan Burgers employees of Whitefish recently narrowly escaped with their lives after they said a heavenly voice warned them to flee their broken-down food truck seconds before a semi truck plowed into it.

Legislators anticipate Medicaid expansion will continue

Three Montana lawmakers, all Republicans, concurred Tuesday during a panel discussion in Kalispell that they anticipate that some form of Medicaid expansion likely will be approved during the upcoming legislative session.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., Flathead Electric, Kalispell.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., Flathead Electric, Kalispell.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., Flathead Electric, Kalispell.

MSU's Frey earns Big Sky honor

BOZEMAN— After scoring a career-high 31 points in Montana State’s 95-90 win over Washington State on Sunday, Bobcat guard Harald Frey earned Big Sky Conference Ready Nutrition Player of the Week honors.

UM's Olson named to AP FCS All-America team

MISSOULA — Montana linebacker Dante Olson was named an Associated Press First-team All-American on Tuesday following a record-breaking season where he posted a national-best 151 tackles, shattering the UM school record.

Byrd resigns as Wildkat soccer coach

COLUMBIA FALLS — The Columbia Falls School Board Monday Night accepted the resignation of coach O’Brien Byrd from the girls soccer team. He will continue to coach the boys team.

Bonners Ferry downs Libby in dual, 48-17

LIBBY — There were some bright spots for the Libby Greenchain on Tuesday.

Blizzard conditions headed for Northwest Montana

Blizzard conditions were expected to bear down on parts of Northwest Montana overnight Tuesday and into Wednesday.

Officials ID man killed in hit-and-run

Lake County officials have identified a Pablo man killed in a hit-and-run crash early Saturday morning on U.S. 93.

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- Kalispell Women’s Connection holiday tea party, 11:30 a.m., meeting room of Victory Baptist Church, 1830 Montana 35. Speaker is Susan Stapley. Cost $8 per person. Call Jan, 857-2467, or Rosainne, 257-8098 for lunch and free child care reservations. Donations for Flathead Food Bank accepted. Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries.

Rifle wielding woman emerges from woods

Someone had a jarring experience during a walk on Peters Creek Way in Kalispell when a disoriented woman with a rifle on her back reportedly “stumbled out of the woods” and asked to use the person’s phone, then asked where the school was before wandering off. The person thought she appeared to be acting as if she had been drinking and was slurring her words when she said she was “hiking around in the woods and won’t do that again.”

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- Kalispell Women’s Connection holiday tea party, 11:30 a.m., meeting room of Victory Baptist Church, 1830 Montana 35. Speaker is Susan Stapley. Cost $8 per person. Call Jan, 857-2467, or Rosainne, 257-8098 for lunch and free child care reservations. Donations for Flathead Food Bank accepted. Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries.

Short-term rental rules proposed for Middle Canyon

Property owners looking to start or continue short-term vacation rentals in places like West Glacier and Lake Five may soon have abide by county regulations before doing so.

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- Kalispell Women’s Connection holiday tea party, 11:30 a.m., meeting room of Victory Baptist Church, 1830 Montana 35. Speaker is Susan Stapley. Cost $8 per person. Call Jan, 857-2467, or Rosainne, 257-8098 for lunch and free child care reservations. Donations for Flathead Food Bank accepted. Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries.

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- Kalispell Women’s Connection holiday tea party, 11:30 a.m., meeting room of Victory Baptist Church, 1830 Montana 35. Speaker is Susan Stapley. Cost $8 per person. Call Jan, 857-2467, or Rosainne, 257-8098 for lunch and free child care reservations. Donations for Flathead Food Bank accepted. Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries.

County proposes softening sign regulations in scenic corridor

The Flathead County Commissioners will hold a public hearing Thursday regarding proposed zoning text amendments, including one that would allow advertising signs to be erected in various parts of the county’s extensive scenic corridor overlay, so long as they remain under 250 square feet in surface area.

Kalispell family asks for help in solving holiday whodunit

A Kalispell family is asking the community to help them find out how a real-life Grinch stole Christmas.

Health insurance enrollment deadline is Dec. 15

The deadline for Montanans to sign up for 2019 health insurance through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services is Saturday, Dec. 15.

Bigfork takes first in home tournament

Bigfork High School Speech and Debate cleaned up the sweepstakes points on home turf over the weekend for a first-place finish in Class B-C.

Glacier earns second-place berth in hard-fought battle

The competition was close for Class AA and Class A speech and debate teams battling it out word by word in Bozeman over the weekend.

Unidentified person dies in Hungry Horse area vehicle fire

An unidentified person died late Saturday afternoon in a vehicle fire near Lion Lake in the Hungry Horse area, according to a Flathead County Sheriff’s Office press release.

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- Daughters of the American Revolution, Chief Ignace Chapter Christmas meeting and potluck, noon to 3 p.m., home of Carol White, Kalispell. Call 755-6781 for directions. Bring nonperishable food for veterans pantry.

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- Daughters of the American Revolution, Chief Ignace Chapter Christmas meeting and potluck, noon to 3 p.m., home of Carol White, Kalispell. Call 755-6781 for directions. Bring nonperishable food for veterans pantry.

Hanukkah lights up the night

On Saturday evening, gathered around eight tables at the Kalispell Hampton Inn, Jews from the Flathead Valley came together to light candles, sing songs and share a meal.

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- Daughters of the American Revolution, Chief Ignace Chapter Christmas meeting and potluck, noon to 3 p.m., home of Carol White, Kalispell. Call 755-6781 for directions. Bring nonperishable food for veterans pantry.

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- Daughters of the American Revolution, Chief Ignace Chapter Christmas meeting and potluck, noon to 3 p.m., home of Carol White, Kalispell. Call 755-6781 for directions. Bring nonperishable food for veterans pantry.

Gather 'round, drunk man tells his tale

Although “dead men tell no tales,” drunken men, unfortunately, do. A man who sounded “highly intoxicated” called Kalispell Police Department and said he reportedly got into a fight with someone at a bar and was defending himself. The man, who wasn’t making much sense, said the bartender possibly kicked him out and that “he’d will be waiting by the old Pizza Hut.” He then said people were coming out of the bar, but didn’t know if they were the ones he allegedly defended himself against. The man told dispatchers that he “just wanted to tell his tale.”

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Sophia Woodworth, daughter of Daniel and Rachel Woodworth of Kalispell, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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Sophia Woodworth, daughter of Daniel and Rachel Woodworth of Kalispell, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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Sophia Woodworth, daughter of Daniel and Rachel Woodworth of Kalispell, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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Sophia Woodworth, daughter of Daniel and Rachel Woodworth of Kalispell, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

New brewery reflects area's outdoor lifestyle

In the process of opening the new Sacred Waters Brewing Co. taproom, the founders discovered the generosity of the Northwest Montana brewing community.

Letters to the editor Dec. 9

I’m just checking to make sure I got the story right because, to be honest, I sometimes misunderstand and I certainly don’t want to be unfair to anybody. According to the front page of Daily Inter Lake (Nov. 24), the Glacier High School marching band will have the opportunity to march and play in Washington, D.C., for the National Memorial Day Parade? And Glacier High School has dug down into the bottom of the poke and come up with enough money to buy the band some used hand-me-downs so they won’t be embarrassed by marching in their running drawers? Like they have for the past 11 years?

Montanans would benefit from simple majority rules in House

I never planned on being “Old Man Jones,” but time never stops. I am currently the longest serving Republican in the Montana House, having served eight years as senator and six years as representative. I have served under the Senate simple majority rules, and the House super majority rules. I have served in the majority, minority and leadership. I support changing the Montana House procedural rules (not bonding or veto override) to the Senate’s simple majority format.

The cost of health care

In light of the exorbitant cost of health care, I find both a letter of non-apology from the KRMC board and a news article/advertisement for the Digestive Health Institute in the same issue of the Daily Inter Lake interesting. The desire to provide great health care is not nefarious. The question is whether or not you can afford KRMC’s vision of great health care. As an aside, ever wonder where the $24 million to pay their fine came from?

HGTV Dream Home makes debut in Whitefish

Fully furnished and TV-ready, the 2019 HGTV Dream Home built atop Big Mountain in Whitefish stands ready for its television debut and its lucky new owner as one of the country’s most anticipated giveaways nears its opening day.

Avalanche Center daily forecasts begin today

The Flathead Avalanche Center will begin issuing daily avalanche forecasts beginning today.

Newsmakers

- Kellie danielson is the new director of Loyal Care, a premier boutique in-home care business. She previously served as president of Montana West Economic Development and chief executive officer of Flathead County Economic Development Authority, and has returned to the Flathead Valley after two years of living out-of-state to assist her parents.

Carl H. Burrows, 66

Carl H. Burrows, 66, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, at his residence.

Groups say devices kill non-target wildlife, including pets

Federal wildlife workers kill coyotes in Montana with an arsenal of lethal approaches.

Navigating holiday parties with #MeToo in mind

For many organizations, the annual company Christmas party is the biggest event of the year. The budget is large, fun is the name of the game, it’s an opportunity for celebration and fellowship between employees, and it’s one project that most employees don’t mind being a part of.

Eric William Emerson, 42

Eric William Emerson died unexpectedly of natural causes on Oct. 27, 2018, while in Rome, Italy.

Effort to secure bypass funding deserves praise

Among the top stories of the week was the good news that Kalispell is getting a $12.75 million federal grant to convert roughly 2 miles of the southern half of the U.S. 93 bypass into a four-lane highway.

The day I almost blew up the car - and myself

Remember the headline on my column a few weeks ago? “Accidents can happen anytime, anywhere.”

Constance 'Connie' Guest, 78

Constance “Connie” Guest, 78, died of natural causes on Dec. 1, 2018, at the Brendan House in Kalispell surrounded by her family.

Wrestling Flathead fourth at Mining City Duals; Dogs 2nd at Kinney

The Daily Inter Lake

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PHOTOS: 2018 Kalispell Christmas Parade

Photos from the 2018 Kalispell Christmas Parade along Main Street in Kalispell on Saturday evening.

Man killed in hit-and-run near Pablo

A 20-year-old man was killed in a hit-and-run early Saturday morning in the Pablo area.

Bah humbug! Grinch steals presents from vehicle

A man called the Kalispell Police Department and said his wife’s vehicle was broken into the previous night and her wallet, cash and Christmas presents were stolen. The door was unlocked.

Blackfeet Tribe employees admit guilt in fraud case

Two employees who worked for the Blackfeet Tribe’s Head Start Program in Browning admitted in federal court Thursday to stealing money through a scheme that involved others in which an estimated $232,000 was fraudulently claimed as overtime pay, according to the U.S. Attorney’s office in Missoula.

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- Flathead Composite Squadron Civil Air Patrol hosts Stuff the Bus, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Shopko, Kalispell. Donate unwrapped Christmas gifts for Salvation Army Angel Tree Program.

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- Flathead Composite Squadron Civil Air Patrol hosts Stuff the Bus, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Shopko, Kalispell. Donate unwrapped Christmas gifts for Salvation Army Angel Tree Program.

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- Flathead Composite Squadron Civil Air Patrol hosts Stuff the Bus, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Shopko, Kalispell. Donate unwrapped Christmas gifts for Salvation Army Angel Tree Program.

Advocates for veterans honored by Evergreen Chamber

A couple who has gone the distance to provide care and support for local veterans received the Brent Hall Award from the Evergreen Chamber of Commerce at the Chamber’s annual awards banquet Thursday in Kalispell.

Flathead sees big increase in home-schooled students

The home-schooled student population is surging in the Flathead Valley based on data from a countywide enrollment report released this month.

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- Flathead Composite Squadron Civil Air Patrol hosts Stuff the Bus, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Shopko, Kalispell. Donate unwrapped Christmas gifts for Salvation Army Angel Tree Program.

Flathead school enrollment stands at 16,473

Enrollment in Flathead Valley schools grew by 3 percent compared to 2017, according to a countywide enrollment report released this month.

Bravettes bounce Bison in opener

The Daily Inter Lake

Braves post 3-0 mark on 1st day of wrestling at Mining City Duals

BUTTE — Flathead came through with two blow out wins and edged Butte 25-24 on Friday during first-day action at the Mining City Duals wrestling tournament.

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- Kalispell Public Schools finance and operations Committee Meeting 7 a.m. at District Office Basement Meeting Room.

Kalispell officer sues city over sexual harassment claims

A longtime Kalispell police officer has sued the city and the police department, alleging sexual harassment and lost wages because she wasn’t promoted when she said she should have been.

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- Kalispell Public Schools finance and operations Committee Meeting 7 a.m. at District Office Basement Meeting Room.

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- Kalispell Public Schools finance and operations Committee Meeting 7 a.m. at District Office Basement Meeting Room.

Landowners, agencies discuss Ashley Creek restoration

Mont Peters described a sobering attempt he and his wife made this year to canoe a stretch of Ashley Creek near Smith Lake.

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- Kalispell Public Schools finance and operations Committee Meeting 7 a.m. at District Office Basement Meeting Room.

Weekend update

Vets gift store

Wrestling Braves edge Big Sky; Glacier falls to Sentinel

MISSOULA — Fin Nadeau’s decision at 132 pounds in the final match of the dual gave Flathead a 31-28 Western AA wrestling victory over Missoula Big Sky/Loyola on Thursday night.

Flathead's Counts AA MVP on offense

Flathead High School senior running back Blake Counts, who helped the Braves advance to the state championship football game last month, has been named the Class AA offensive MVP in balloting by league coaches.

Labor board will investigate nurses association's complaint

In its complaint filed Wednesday with the National Labor Relations Board, the Montana Nurses Association alleges Kalispell Regional Healthcare violated the National Labor Relations Act by engaging in unfair labor practices.

PHOTOS: Opening day at Whitefish Mountain Resort

Photos from opening day on Big Mountain at Whitefish Mountain Resort on Thursday.

Kalispell gets funding for bypass conversion

The city of Kalispell will get a $12.75 million slice of a $1.5 billion federal grant program to expand a portion of the southern half of the U.S. 93 bypass around Kalispell.

Whitefish Review hosts author Jim Williams

Whitefish Review will host wildlife biologist and author Jim Williams at Casey’s in Whitefish on Saturday, Dec. 8, for a slide show, reading and discussion of “Path of the Puma — An Expert’s View of the Big Cat’s Fight to Find and Preserve Its Wild,” (Patagonia Works, 2018) a new book about the remarkable resilience of the mountain lion.

Concerts tap into classic inspirational music

The Glacier Symphony’s “This Sacred Season and Messiah” concerts in Whitefish and Kalispell will offer a delightful assortment of sacred music for the season with a program focused on highlights from Handel’s “Messiah.” The concert includes inspiring works by Johann Sebastian Bach, English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams and American composers Morten Lauridsen and Eric Whitacre. Also on the program will be the premiere of “A Christmas Round,” composed by John Zoltek.

Whitefish Theatre Co. announces auditions for two shows

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions in December for two theater productions.

Wolfpack Theatre puts spin on classic yarn

E.B. White’s loving story of the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a little gray spider named Charlotte comes to life in the touching children’s classic, “Charlotte’s Web,” presented by the Wolfpack Theatre Co. Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 11 and 12, at 6:33 p.m. in the Wolfpack Theatre at Glacier High School.

Betty Bain Sagen, 90

On Nov. 30, 2018, Betty Bain Sagen, at 90 years of age, slipped the bonds of this earth.

Community bands perform a 'Christmas Spectacular'

The Flathead Valley Community Band will join the New Horizons Band to present a “Christmas Spectacular ” Wednesday, Dec. 12, in the Red Lion Ballroom in Kalispell. The program begins at 7:30 p.m.

Man doesn't appreciate off-duty officer's watchful eye

An off-duty border patrol agent was parked in a lot in Kalispell when he saw another person in a vehicle videotaping people. When the agent made eye contact with him, he stopped recording, rolled the window up and flipped off the officer before driving away.

Bigfork woman part of elite team that decorated historic home

Having a “white” Christmas took on a new meaning for Bigfork resident Cecilia Egdorf this year when she recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to help deck the halls of the White House.

Whitefish school superintendent announces job search

Whitefish School District Superintendent Heather Davis Schmidt is seeking a new position due to a change in her family circumstances.

Overhaul planned for Hungry Horse Dam power plant

The Hungry Horse Dam, which celebrated its 65th birthday this summer, needs a power-plant overhaul that will cost somewhere between $150 million and $200 million.

Community celebrations are seasonal favorites

The Flathead Valley rings in the holidays with a host of community festivities. Whether you just want to stroll around downtown amid the holiday decorations, are rarin’ to go for a wagon ride, or are looking for a little hot cocoa and Christmas caroling, gather up your family and friends, put on your (flannel-lined) party pants and celebrate the season!

Valley Voices 'Celebrate the Season'

The Valley Voices Community Choir will present its Christmas concert, “Celebrate the Season,” twice this year, once at Glacier High School auditorium and a second time at Risen Christ Catholic Church in Evergreen. The concert will encompass a range of classic and modern music and performances by the full choir, a smaller group called Evensong, and the talents of Wai Mizutani and the Flathead Valley Community College orchestra.

'The Best Christmas Pageant Ever'

Tßhe Whitefish Theatre Co. presents the family classic “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” as its holiday show at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Weekly calendar

THURSDAY, DEC. 6

Christmas Trolley tours Kalispell's historic east side

The Museum at Central School is partnering with the Montana Trolley to offer interpretive trolley tours of Kalispell’s east-side neighborhood. A museum representative will be aboard to provide historic interpretation and context as guests cruise past some of Kalispell’s oldest dwellings. Because the homes will be decked out in lights and decorations for the holiday season, the tours will prove be both informative and beautiful. New for this season, each group will be treated to a tour of the grand and elegant Keith House on Fifth Avenue East. Each trolley tour seats 25 people, so space is limited.

It's time to reinvest in our public lands

I recently renewed the tags on our car and I was happy to know that some of that fee was earmarked to support our state parks. Every year, I’m proud to participate, in a small way, in the funding of the parks that mean to much to our way of life. In fact, I’d be happy to pay more because our public lands are why I love Montana. But, while I’m pleased to be able to support our state parks and public lands, I’m also worried about them, because they are facing a very real crisis.

Study would examine mountain lion population

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks wants to get a better handle on how many mountain lions live in the state, and they hope to conduct a study that may answer some of those questions.

Letters to the editor Dec. 6

Thank goodness the midterm elections are over. We have been pounded day and night for months on every form of media imaginable. The sad part is the orgy of spending that accompanies this campaign of trying to convince voters which candidate is more or less worthy than the other.

Flathead man pleads guilty to weapons violations

Flathead County resident Bruce Boone Wann on Monday admitted in federal court to firearms violations after an investigation found he illegally possessed a number of weapons and made an effort to hide them from law enforcement, according to information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Missoula.

Flathead man admits to sexual exploitation

Flathead County resident Allen Duane Turman, 43, pleaded guilty Thursday in federal court to sexual exploitation of a child, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Missoula.

Nurses Association files charges over layoffs

The Montana Nurses Association filed charges Wednesday against Kalispell Regional Healthcare for allegedly violating federal rights pertaining to Kalispell Regional’s recent announcement of employee restructuring, according to a press release issued late Wednesday by the Montana Nurses Association.

100 years ago Flathead was in throes of flu epidemic

One-hundred years ago, headlines in the Daily Inter Lake had a recurring theme — the influenza epidemic.

Whitefish Mountain set to open with 5 lifts, 19 trails

A winter storm that lingered through last weekend has boosted snow depths on Big Mountain just in time for Whitefish Mountain Resort to open for its 71st season Thursday.

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- Friendship Force of the Flathead socializing breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes, Kalispell. For more information call Priscilla 406-756-9332.

Roger DuWayne Jacobsen, 83

Roger DuWayne Jacobsen, 83, of Columbia Falls, passed away peacefully on Nov. 26, 2018. Roger was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.

Berton “Bert” Henry Baldauf, 65

Berton “Bert” Henry Baldauf, 65, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018 at his home in Somers.

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- Friendship Force of the Flathead socializing breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes, Kalispell. For more information call Priscilla 406-756-9332.

Mary Sachkowsky, 102

It is with great sadness that the family of Mary Sachkowsky announce her passing after a brief illness, on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018, at Buffalo Hills Retreat, at the age of 102 years.

Phyllis Jane (Ripatte) McCarthy, 86

Phyllis Jane (Ripatte) McCarthy, 86, passed away peacefully on Nov. 30, 2018, surrounded by her family, which includes four children, 13 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

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- Friendship Force of the Flathead socializing breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes, Kalispell. For more information call Priscilla 406-756-9332.

Kalispell schools zero in on raising math scores

Kalispell Public Schools are focused on increasing math achievement among elementary students within the next three to five years by putting in place a strategic plan, starting with professional development.

Paws to Play honored for dog-park work

The Montana Trails Recreation and Parks recently awarded Paws to Play a Citation of Merit for its continued support of Kalispell Parks and Recreation and Kalispell’s first dog park.

Kalispell names new interim police chief

The Kalispell Police Department has a new interim police chief as of Friday, Nov. 30, when Patrol Capt. Tim Falkner accepted the temporary assignment after Interim Chief Wade Rademacher retired Thursday.

Kalispell OKs urban renewal plan

The Kalispell City Council unanimously approved the Downtown Kalispell Urban Renewal Plan on Monday, setting the stage for the creation of a tax-increment finance district for the heart of the city.

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- Friendship Force of the Flathead socializing breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes, Kalispell. For more information call Priscilla 406-756-9332.

Senator visits Kalispell-based troops in Afghanistan

Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., visited Kalispell-based National Guard troops in Afghanistan during a whirlwind weekend trip.

Shelter Island estate sold to anonymous 'world traveler'

Shelter Island, a 22-acre luxury island estate on Flathead Lake near Rollins that most recently was listed for sale at $13.95 million, has been sold.

Bush called 1983 trip to Glacier 'sheer pleasure'

Glacier National Park had some very high-profile visitors in August 1983 when then Vice President George H.W. Bush and his wife Barbara spent a short vacation in the park, staying two nights in a four-person tent.

Car thief makes quick grocery run

According to a Kalispell Police report, a juvenile male reportedly stole a vehicle while its owner was inside a store. According to a witness, the boy was in another car before he hopped into the victim’s car and sped off when the owner went inside. The vehicle’s owner found the car parked in a grocery store parking lot a few minutes later, identifying it by the air freshener and dent on the side. The owner waited in front of his stolen vehicle in case the thief came back out of the store and waited for police to arrive. Police arrived moments later and arrested the alleged thief.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, Bigfork.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, Bigfork.

Marie K. Greeson, 91

Marie K. Greeson, born in Columbia Falls to Bessie and Daniel Kelleher Feb. 13, 1927, went peacefully home to God Nov. 9, 2018.

Special care packages comfort kids in transition

The holidays mark the most popular time of year for gift giving, but for the children entering Montana’s foster care system, one clear box without paper or bows makes all the difference any time of year.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, Bigfork.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, Bigfork.

Jerome 'Jerry' Krier Sr., 75

On Friday, Nov. 30, 2018, heaven gained an angel.

C-Falls claims first at Stevi speech tourney

Columbia Falls High School Speech and Debate cleaned up at the Stevensville tournament over the weekend, where 15 schools competed.

2 injured in head-on crash Sunday

A two-vehicle head-on collision in Kalispell Sunday night left both drivers badly injured, according to Kalispell Police.

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- FVCC’s Art Club annual Holiday Art sale 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today through Wednesday on the second floor of the Art and Technology building. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the activities of the club. For more information call David Regan 406-756-3993.

Kalispell doula coaches mothers through childbirth

Birth remains one of the most celebrated parts of life, but in the moments leading up to and following that first cry, some mothers find comfort in reaching for a skillful, helping hand.

Hearing is next step in Whitefish annexation proposal

The city of Whitefish is moving forward with the annexation of 22 acres of contiguous land that includes Park Knoll Estates, and the next step is a public hearing tonight before the Whitefish City Council.

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- FVCC’s Art Club annual Holiday Art sale 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today through Wednesday on the second floor of the Art and Technology building. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the activities of the club. For more information call David Regan 406-756-3993.

No headline

- FVCC’s Art Club annual Holiday Art sale 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today through Wednesday on the second floor of the Art and Technology building. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the activities of the club. For more information call David Regan 406-756-3993.

Kalispell council to vote on urban renewal plan

Tax-increment district would fund improvement projects

Northwest Montana ski areas ready for Old Man Winter

Montana skiers and snowboarders are gearing up for another great season on the slopes with opening day at resorts across the region within sight.

No headline

- FVCC’s Art Club annual Holiday Art sale 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today through Wednesday on the second floor of the Art and Technology building. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the activities of the club. For more information call David Regan 406-756-3993.

Births KRMC

Matthew Hooven, son of Alexander and Laura Hooven of Kalispell, was born Oct. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Couple reopens historic haven as event center

More than 100 years of history have marked the picturesque riverside landscape recently brought back to life as The Nest on Swan River, one of Bigfork’s newest and oldest hidden gems.

Montana taking on the opioid epidemic

On a daily basis we are inundated on both the local and national level with news of how the opioid epidemic continues to infiltrate communities across this country. Previously, over-prescription of chronic pain-relieving opioids was believed to be the main cause of this crisis. This led to state and federal regulations applied to industry and government that have largely controlled the prescription pill abuse issue. However, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, opioid overdose deaths were still 30 percent higher in 2017 than they were in 2016.

Rep. White shouldn't be making public land policy

Given how much Montanans value public lands, it’s reasonable to expect the Montana legislature would elect someone as chair of the House Natural Resources Committee who shares those values. But that didn’t happen with the recent appointment of Rep. Kerry White.

Sec. Zinke's time is up

Ryan Zinke, the most scandal-plagued Interior Secretary in modern history, has finally gone a bridge too far. It is, at long last, time for him to go.

Letters to the editor Dec. 2

Nowadays we hear from those who want to revert to the conservatism of the Constitution writers. The original Constitution allowed voting by 6 percent of the population, all of them male, white, and owners of property. Since people like Tom Paine were already advocating for government BY the people, it is not surprising that the disenfranchised began to agitate. As early as 1850 the property ownership requirement disappeared. The movement toward universal suffrage — buoyed by women — moved step by step toward more democracy.

Through a different lens For Jerry Wisher, the auto salvage yard started by his father is a collection of memories

Jerry Wisher knows that many people driving by or living near the auto salvage business his father launched in 1957 consider the operation’s 22-acre lot an eyesore.

911 call prompts terse response

When a person mistakenly called 911, a return call prompted him to say “I’m going to be really irritated if you send someone here.”

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- Missoula guitarist and singer-songwriter John Floridis performs a benefit concert for Neighbors In Need, 4 p.m., Whitefish United Methodist Church, 1150 Wisconsin Ave. Free will offering accepted.

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- Missoula guitarist and singer-songwriter John Floridis performs a benefit concert for Neighbors In Need, 4 p.m., Whitefish United Methodist Church, 1150 Wisconsin Ave. Free will offering accepted.

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- Missoula guitarist and singer-songwriter John Floridis performs a benefit concert for Neighbors In Need, 4 p.m., Whitefish United Methodist Church, 1150 Wisconsin Ave. Free will offering accepted.

No headline

- Missoula guitarist and singer-songwriter John Floridis performs a benefit concert for Neighbors In Need, 4 p.m., Whitefish United Methodist Church, 1150 Wisconsin Ave. Free will offering accepted.

Glacier, Conservancy address increasing visitation

Fifteen hikers within a span of roughly two weeks during the summer of 2017 required emergency “carry-outs” from the popular Loop Trail in Glacier National Park.

Business Watercooler

Robert Much of the Native American Development Corp. PTAC will conduct a Government Contracting 102 workshop from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 11, at the CSKT IT Computer Training Room in the lower level of the Old Tribal Complex in Pablo. It will cover the 8(a) Business Development certification program and the HUBZone contracting certification program, which are designed to help small businesses get preferences in government contracting.

Building permits on file

Kalispell

Charles Henley Phillips, 88

Charles Henley Phillips passed away Nov. 22, 2018, at home in Kalispell, surrounded by family and angels.

Vonnie Ovnicek, 78

Vonnie Ovnicek died on Monday, Sept. 17, 2018, in Kalispell.

Karlann S. Coughlin, 93

Karlann S. Coughlin, 93, of Kalispell, passed away on Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018, at HealthCenter Northwest in Kalispell.

Finding balance in tourism and quality of life

Flathead Valley locals tend to love this time of year — after Labor Day and before ski season — when the sidewalks are a little less crowded and it’s easier to get a table at popular restaurants. This “shoulder season,” as it’s called, gives us a little breathing room before the next onslaught of visitors.

Eugene Birks, 86

Eugene Birks, 86, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018 in Kalispell.

Donn Wayne Fish Sr., 68

Donn Fish, 68, passed away on Nov. 24, 2018, after a brave fight against multiple illnesses, with his wife Dorene and other family by his side.

Roberta Louise 'Bobbi' (DeVoe) Altree, 88

Roberta Louise “Bobbi” (DeVoe) Altree passed away peacefully on Nov. 14, 2018, surrounded by family members following a stroke.

Peter 'Pete' John Barten, 85

Peter “Pete” John Barten, 85, passed away suddenly at his home near Lake Blaine Nov. 28, 2018.

Flathead grapplers 3-0 at Helena Duals, Glacier 2-1

HELENA – The Flathead wrestling team rolled through Class AA competition while going 3-0 at the Helena Duals on Saturday.

Popp, Milner champs at Kalispell Invite

Jace Reed and Preston Ring win boys individual titles

Lady Griz put up 86 against N. Illinois, advance at Classic

In a game with 156 points scored, it was the defense played by Montana that set the early tone as it rolled to an 86-70 victory over Northern Illinois on Saturday afternoon at Dahlberg Arena on the opening day of the 38th Lady Griz Classic presented by Holiday Inn Downtown.

Flathead tree-lighting honors fallen law officers

The Montana Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) is hosting its annual tree lighting at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 5, outside the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Bible verses used as threats on social media

The Whitefish Police Department was called about someone posting threatening Bible verses on a social media page. The caller said another man is bullying him online, as well as stalking, trolling and harassing him.

Glacier's red buses headed for an overhaul

Glacier National Park announced plans Friday for a major overhaul of the park’s 33 iconic red buses, products of the White Motor Co.

Local students perform well at mock UN conference

In a global world, local students showed a keen understanding of international relations with several top winners at the recent Model United Nations Conference at the University of Montana Nov. 19-20.