Ellington

C-Falls spikers win Tip-Off event, Flathead splits in Great Falls

BUTTE — Columbia Falls captured the title at the Northwest A/Southwest A Tip-Off Tournament on Saturday at the Butte Civic Center with a dramatic 25-23, 24-26, 15-14 volleyball victory over Corvallis.

Butterfield, Erickson win x-country titles at Libby

LIBBY — Aiden Butterfield of Bigfork and Lara Erickson of Columbia Falls were the individual winners for boys and girls at the Libby Invitational cross country meet on Saturday at J Neils Park.

Glacier boys tie Hellgate in season soccer opener 2-2

MISSOULA — The Glacier Wolfpack soccer team battled through injuries to three of its starters to tie Western AA foe Missoula Hellgate on Saturday in its season opener 2-2.

Labor Day Golf Tourney Lindholm, Gordon post low rounds

Kalispell’s Logan Lindholm shot 59 to tie his tournament course record on the Cameron 9 with a bogey-free round and two-time defending champion Kali Gordon of Okotoks, Alberta, shot a 4-under-par 70 on the Championship 18 as both top the leaderboard after the first day of play in the 82nd annual Labor Day Golf Tournament at Buffalo Hill Golf Club.

Man sentenced for vehicle thefts, home burglaries

A Northwest Montana man who stole numerous vehicles from Sanders, Lake and Flathead counties, and burglarized several homes in Troy will spend time behind bars.

FVCC art students get creative with recycled materials

Honey the Bear is no ordinary bruin. It took more than 350 hours to construct. And it’s made up almost entirely of recycled cardboard.

Kalispell council still mulling health levy increase

The Kalispell City Council held a work session Monday to discuss raising the city’s mill levy to provide increased funding for the Flathead City-County Health Department. The health department has asked for a mill levy of 5.99 for fiscal year 2020, an increase from last year’s 4.9 amount.

Kmart closing Evergreen store by mid-December

Kmart in Evergreen will close by mid-December, the company’s public relations director announced in an email statement Friday.

Woman loves to call cops 'for no reason'

A guest at a Kalispell motel called to complain about a street vendor she claimed “is constantly harassing kids.” However, it later came to light the caller “is always calling the cops on people for no reason” and “she is not a victim of anything,” according to the Kalispell Police Department.

Soccer Stillwater girls split, boys drop 2 on Idaho trip

BONNERS FERRY, Idaho — Two late goals allowed Bonners Ferry to escape with a 2-0 boys nonconference soccer victory over Stillwater Christian School (0-2) on Friday afternoon.

C-Falls, Libby pace NW A spikers at Tip-Off Tourney

BUTTE — Columbia Falls and Libby led the way for Northwest A volleyball teams on Friday at the Northwest A/Southwest A Tip-Off Tournament at the Butte Civic Central.

Prep Football Roundup Townsend trips Bigfork; Libby, Eureka roll

BIGFORK — A 38-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Trey Hoveland to Dawson Sweat with 7 seconds left before halftime put Townsend in front for good en route to a 20-14 Class B nonconference season opening football victory over Bigfork on Friday night.

Hawks blow by Braves

By KATIE BROWN

Glacier slams Skyview

BILLINGS — Junior quarterback JT Allen passed for 292 yards and four touchdowns and sophomore Jake Rendina ran for three more as Glacier slammed Billings Skyview 47-6 on Friday night in the Class AA football opener for both schools.

Rumble in the Bay car show, Ferndale fly-in staged this weekend

Classic car fans can head to Bigfork this weekend for the 12th annual Rumble in the Bay car show.

Lake County plane crash victims ID'd

Three Indiana men died in a plane crash outside of St. Ignatius Thursday afternoon, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

Rev. Robert K. Pearce Sr., 91

Reverend Robert K. Pearce Sr., 91, was welcomed into his eternal reward on Aug. 27, 2019, surrounded by his loving children at the Beehive in Columbia Falls.

James Anthony Kiley, 93

James “Jim” Kiley, 93, loving father, husband, friend and physician, died on Aug. 21, 2019, in Portland, Oregon, after a long illness. He was a family physician in Kalispell from 1972 until his retirement 15 years ago.

Governor Bullock talks tech at West Valley School

Montana Governor and Democratic presidential candidate Steve Bullock on Thursday stopped for a visit at West Valley School to meet with student ambassadors, talk about education and highlight progress made throughout the state to upgrade broadband in schools.

Land-use advocacy group shutting down

A funding shortfall has forced Citizens for a Better Flathead to temporarily suspend operations and close its office after nearly 30 years of advocating for Flathead Valley’s water resources, agricultural heritage and the environment through planning and policy solutions.

Diane Carver Anderson, 68

Diane Carver Anderson passed away peacefully on Aug. 27, 2019, at her home in Minneapolis.

Wrong button pushed for cellphone help

A woman hung up after calling 911. When dispatchers called back, she said she didn’t have an emergency and purportedly thought a sliding button on her cellphone that read “Emergency SOS” meant getting help for her phone.

Glacier, Flathead spikers start play on Saturday

It might be cooling off outside but things are heating up in the gym for the Flathead and Glacier high school volleyball teams.

Corvallis, Hamilton golfers lead way at Ronan Invite

RONAN — Macee Greenwood of Corvallis and Bryce Reed of Hamilton both shot 70 en route to medalist honors for girls and boys on Thursday at the Ronan Invitational golf tournament at Mission Mountain Golf Course.

Hat tricks for Getts, Windauer in C-Falls soccer sweep of Polson

POLSON — Hat tricks by Niels Getts and Josie Windauer carried Columbia Falls to a sweep of Polson in Northern A boys and girls soccer play on Thursday evening.

New season, fresh start for area football teams

The Daily Inter Lake

American Airlines to fly direct to New York City

American Airlines will operate a direct flight from Glacier Park International Airport to New York City’s LaGuardia Airport starting next June, the airline announced Thursday.

Fire damages Weyerhaeuser's C-Falls plant

An investigation is underway to determine the cause of a fire that occurred around 8 p.m. Wednesday night at the Weyerhaeuser medium-density fiberboard plant in Columbia Falls, according to plant officials.

Drinking leads to confusion over keys

Kalispell Police Department received a call from a woman who was slurring her words and reportedly said the emergency was that “Ashley took Amy’s keys.” Amy got on the line and told dispatchers there was no emergency and they didn’t need police, fire or medical help, and would sober up and call back tomorrow if they still wanted to report something.

The bears are back in town

Kids are back in school, nights are getting chilly and bears are roaming town — three sure signs that the end of summer is near in Northwest Montana.

Letters to the editor Aug. 29

It’s time! Thank the Lord for President Trump who has started the process of modifying and modernizing the Endangered Species Act.

Whitefish's Kahle top golfer with 72 at C-Falls Invitational

COLUMBIA FALLS — Cameron Kahle of Whitefish won his second golf title in two days on Wednesday with an even-par 72 in the Columbia Falls Invitational at Meadow Lake Golf Club. Kahle finished five shots ahead of Bryce Reed of Hamilton.

Explosion reported at Weyerhaeuser plant

COLUMBIA FALLS — Columbia Falls residents near the Weyerhaeuser plant reported hearing an explosion coming from the facility late Wednesday evening.

Two in custody following vehicle chase

A man and woman are in custody following a Tuesday morning pursuit of a reckless driver that ended at the intersection of U.S. 93 and Wyoming Street.

Letters to the editor Aug. 26

I am opposed to the red flag Laws that are being pushed on us by President Trump and the RINO Republican leadership. These laws violate the Second Amendment and my right to defend myself and this takes away our independence.

Rebecca Ann Johnson, 63

Rebecca Ann Johnson, also known as Becky, passed away in her home in Kalispell on June 6, 2019, at the age of 63.

Linforth Murray Sultzer, 86

Linforth Murray Sultzer, 86, passed away peacefully at Kalispell Regional Medical Center Sunday morning, Aug. 25, 2019.

Browning team takes top honors at Indian Relay Races

The 2019 Leroy Skunkcap Memorial Indian Relay Races were held during halftime of the Northwest Montana Fair rodeo on Aug. 15-16, with the championship held Aug. 17 during the final night of rodeo action. The Black Rock relay team from Browning garnered first place in the championship race, and took home a $3,250 payout, plus saddles, buckles, jackets and blankets.

Closures expected with Kalispell trail construction

Construction will begin on a new segment of the multi-use trail along U.S. 93 North in Kalispell on Monday, Sept. 9.

Salish Kootenai College gets funding for Indigenous Research Center

Salish Kootenai College will receive a $3.5 million National Science Foundation grant to fund an Indigenous Research Center on its campus in Pablo, Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., announced Tuesday.

Lorraine Gail Wise Schultz, 93

Our beloved little mommy left us on Aug. 26, 2019, to be reunited with many of her treasured family members.

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- ImagineIF Libraries board meets at 9 a.m., meeting room, Kalispell. Call Connie Behe, 758-5824.

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- ImagineIF Libraries board meets at 9 a.m., meeting room, Kalispell. Call Connie Behe, 758-5824.

Yaak advocates describe trail route as 'giant train wreck'

The small population of grizzly bears in the Yaak Valley rarely encounters humans or their influences, according to Rick Bass, an acclaimed writer and conservationist long associated with the Yaak.

Shirley Ann Nadeau Matosich, 91

Shirley Matosich passed away peacefully in her sleep on Aug. 24, 2019, at the age of 91 at her home on Swan Lake after a brief and blessed relatively-pain-free battle with pancreatic cancer.

Harold Nolan Barber, 89

Harold Nolan Barber, 89, died early Sunday afternoon, Aug. 25, 2019, at his home in Lewistown as a result of an accident.

Vera M. (Sullivan) Good, 100

Vera M. (Sullivan) Good passed away Monday, Aug. 26, 2019, at Wel-LIfe Center in Kalispell.

FVCC students begin fall semester

Cracking spines on new textbooks.

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- ImagineIF Libraries board meets at 9 a.m., meeting room, Kalispell. Call Connie Behe, 758-5824.

High School Golf Mercer nets medalist title at Missoula Invite

MISSOULA — Flathead’s Marcella Mercer collected her first medalist honors of the fall season at the Missoula Invitational on Tuesday.

Flathead, Glacier gearing up for AA football season

By KATIE BROWN

Active bears bring camping restrictions to St. Mary

The St. Mary Campground, located on the east side of Glacier National Park, is temporarily available to hard-sided camping only due to bear activity. The hiker/biker sites will also be temporarily unavailable at this campground due to the change.

Ethel McKenzie

Ethel McKenzie departed this life early in the morning of Aug. 9, 2019. She entered into the presence of her Lord and Savior whom she loved and served all her 95 years.

County ready to adopt $99.2M budget Many property owners will see slight dip in taxes

A public hearing for the final consideration and approval of the fiscal year 2020 Flathead County budget, consisting of $99.2 million in total expenditures, tops the commissioners’ agenda on Wednesday.

Polson theater breaks ground on new complex

Showboat Cinemas in Polson is adding four new screens and auditoriums in the coming months.

Patrick Brian Gulick, 73

Patrick Brian Gulick, 73, passed away June 30, 2019, in Blachly, Oregon.

Dam repairs planned for Lion Lake

The Flathead National Forest is preparing to make improvements to the Lion Lake dam located near Hungry Horse. The water level will be lowered three feet over the next several weeks so that additional studies can occur and to prepare for improvements.

Suspect pleads guilty in pretrial agreement over drug possession

A pretrial plea agreement has been reached involving Jaymes Dean Leduc, 28, of Kalispell, who agreed to plead guilty to two charges of felony possession of dangerous drugs in separate court cases.

Dwayne Allen Hamilton, 45

Dwayne Allen Hamilton, 45, passed away Aug. 2, 2019, at The HealthCenter in Kalispell.

Ryan Lamb pleads not guilty to amended homicide

Ryan Cody Lamb, who is accused of fatally stabbing his boyfriend with scissors, pleaded not guilty to an amended charge of felony negligent homicide in Flathead District Court Aug. 21.

Flathead's Mercer leads at Missoula Invitational

Missoula — Flathead’s Marcella Mercer leads the Missoula Invitational golf tournament after Monday’s first round of play at Larchmont Golf Course.

Lakeside foundation teaches unique art of wooden boat making

Susan Timmons pulls a small planing tool over a sloping piece of wood with methodic concentration. She keeps her eye trained on the surface, working carefully to achieve the perfect curve on her tiller — the steering arm of her sailboat-in-progress.

Cat perishes in structure fire

No people were injured but a cat died in a trailer fire on Maple Drive in Evergreen Sunday night.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 283-7000.

Kalispell council mulls increased funding for health department

The Kalispell City Council will discuss a mill levy increase that would bump up city funding for the Flathead City-County Health Department at a work session this evening.

Man stuffs stolen socks in pants, flees

Kalispell Police Department received a report about a man seen stuffing things down his pants and then “left in a big hurry.” The man reportedly stole socks and a pair of sunglasses.

Flathead fire manager preaches preparation

Summer may be a time for rest, relaxation and vacation for many, but Lincoln Chute has a different approach to the season.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 283-7000.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 283-7000.

Births KRMC

Esther Cushman, daughter of Josh and Alyssa Cushman of Kalispell, was born June 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Sun Road reconstruction was far from a sure thing

I’d like to congratulate Glacier National Park on completing the Going-to-the-Sun Road rehabilitation.

Potter's creations capture the spirit of Montana

Inside a dusky 102-year-old cabin in the remote town of Trego, Casey Fuson tells stories with clay.

Fixing Montana's rural health-care crisis

Montana is Big Sky Country. Rangelands, forests, and farmer’s fields spread between our towns and cities. Rural life is at the core of our identity as a state and as a people. Yet, as our country expands and moves forward, in many ways too many Montana communities are stuck facing huge hurdles accessing quality healthc are.

Richard Lee 'Rick' Klein, 80

Rick passed away July 24, 2019, at the Whitefish Care Center.

County Syringe Exchange Program seeing positive results

For the first time since the Flathead County Syringe Exchange Program launched nearly six months ago, the Flathead County City-County Health Department has started taking in more syringes than it is giving out — a significant accomplishment for the young initiative that provides an avenue to disease prevention, addiction treatment, and more.

Robert 'Bobby' Alan Crawford Jr., 40

Robert “Bobby” Alan Crawford Jr., died unexpectedly in a work accident on July 11, 2019, in Dunn County, North Dakota, at the age of 40.

Leonard Lewis Secord, 86

Leonard Lewis Secord, of Columbia Falls, passed away at the Brendan House on Aug. 14, 2019. He was 86.

Letters to the editor Aug. 25

Helena Rev. DeBree quoted Sen. Steve Daines in a letter printed in the Daily Inter (Aug. 18) Lake: “Many experts believe firearm restriction proposals would be ineffective in preventing violent crimes.”

Home-care service expands, flips name

After 12 years in the Flathead Valley, Agape Home Care is expanding across Montana. The home-care service is franchising its model and rebranding under the name Epaga, or Agape spelled backward.

New franchise locations in North Kalispell

The latest addition to the U.S. 93 North commercial corridor in Kalispell will house a new Jimmy John’s sandwich shop and Spectrum store.

E. James 'Jim' Porteus, 80

E. James “Jim” Porteus, 80, of Bozeman passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019.

Program offers a good way to 'age in place'

As the Flathead County Agency on Aging was formulating its new long-range aging plan earlier this year, agency leaders asked seniors what they feared most about aging. Many older adults concurred that losing their independence and being a burden to their families are two of their biggest worries.

Election will prove if Montana's independent spirit is still alive

As a longtime Helena resident, a previous legislator, and victim of dark money, I remain privy to insider Montana politics. The 2020 governor’s race has much in common with past “buy and bully” politics, where cattle barons and copper kings controlled Montana.

Slipper shuffler suspected of break-in

A woman told the Kalispell Police Department she believed her house had been broken into because “her slippers were moved” and the door seemed loose.

Philip Cyrus Provence, 97

Philip Cyrus Provence passed away Aug. 13, 2019, in Kalispell.

Fake raptors an ineffective deterrent for wise osprey

The great horned owl perches on a crossarm and peers through sightless eyes across McWenneger Slough.

Big pharma is out of control

Don’t be fooled by the current Washington, D.C. rhetoric about “reforming” the pharmaceutical industry. Most recently Sen. Chuck Grassley has been promoting his bill which would place inflation-based caps on Medicare drug prices. There are also proposals to eliminate “middlemen” and increase transparency in pricing. While these things would be an improvement, they don’t address the fundamental problem of a drug industry gone wild.

Higher expectations for Flathead, Glacier soccer

By DAVID LESNICK

Mental-health grant targets reservation students

Social, emotional and physical wellbeing are interlinked to a person’s overall wellness.

Voisin offers scholarship to join freestyle team

Whitefish’s own slopestyle skiing superstar, Maggie Voisin, has announced she is offering a scholarship to cover the fees to join the Whitefish Mountain Resort’s Freestyle Ski and Snowboard Team, as well as the cost of a season pass for the upcoming year. The scholarship will be awarded to one athlete, male or female, skier or snowboarder.

State to remove non-native fish from Cooney Creek

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks will use backpack electro-fishing equipment to capture and remove non-native brook and rainbow trout from Cooney Creek, a tributary of the upper Swan River.

Groundbreaking set for Whitefish housing project

A groundbreaking ceremony for Alpenglow Apartments, a new 38-unit workforce housing development in Whitefish, is planned at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 27 at the development site, 536 Edgewood Place.

Columbia Falls test orchard identifies keepers and 'dogs'

At least two things bore fruit this growing season at the Wildcat Garden in Columbia Falls.

E. James 'Jim' Porteus, 80

E. James “Jim” Porteus, 80, of Bozeman passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2019.

Who let the dog out? Who knows

A dog owner claimed a neighbor’s boxer ran out of the yard a month ago and bit his dog but didn’t break the skin, according to the Whitefish Police Department. The boxer owners claimed the dog didn’t leave the yard or bite the other dog. Since there was a lack of conclusive evidence about whether the dog actually left the yard and bit the other canine, the case was dismissed.

Pablo man acquitted of murder charge

A Pablo man charged with murder in the shooting death of 30-year-old Matthew Adam Posey Darnell, of Polson, was found not guilty by a jury this week, according to the Lake County Clerk of Courts Office.

Rabid bat scratches Glacier Park resident

A rabid bat scratched a park resident in the St. Mary area of Glacier National Park last Thursday, according to a press release from the Glacier County Health Department.

Two grizzlies captured, relocated from Flathead Valley

As autumn looms and fruit trees are bountiful, Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks officials have been kept busy as bears seek food sources.

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Easements could protect habitat, ensure public access

The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission recently unanimously approved the acquisition by the state Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks of the Kootenai Forestlands conservation easement.

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Rita Kathleen Greenup (Ostby) Ulrich, 72

Rita Kathleen Greenup (Ostby) Ulrich, 72, passed away peacefully in her sleep of natural causes on Aug. 19, 2019, in Cody, Wyoming. Rita’s death was an unexpected shock to family and friends, who enjoyed her vibrant, engaging personality to the very end.

My Glacier Village part of national effort to assist older adults

Come mid-September, a nationwide movement known as The Village, which strives to help older adults independently “age in place” and develop social circles, will make its way to the Flathead Valley.

Jury's still out on who owns Tinkerbell

The rightful owner of a chihuahua named Tinkerbell was up for dispute when a woman said her daughter had her dog and “she wants it back,” she told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. The woman claimed to have papers from a veterinarian proving the dog is hers.

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Tie-breaker vote pushes Whitefish housing project forward

A split Whitefish City Council on Monday approved a controversial 54-unit apartment complex on Whitefish’s north side, but it took a tie-breaker vote to move the project forward.

Cross Country Glacier's Simon Hill one of AA's top returners

It’s a very short regular season— seven meets in six weeks — then state on Oct. 26 in Great Falls.

Deal protects elk habitat on Montana's Rocky Mountain Front

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation recently brokered a land transaction that will permanently protect 442 acres of wildlife and riparian habitat near Augusta along Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front.

King salmon in Montana

The uneducated angler might argue that there is no such thing as a “King” salmon in Montana…Take that bet! Just like in the Great Lakes, there are freshwater Chinook (or King) salmon populating the waters of Fort Peck Reservoir in Eastern Montana, and now is the time to get in on the action. For this fishery, you have two basic options. One is to bring a boat over that is equipped to successfully chase Lake Trout on Flathead Lake and the other is to hire a guide that specializes in this fishery. We have those guides in place on the reservoir and would be happy to assist you in getting a trip booked. More on that later.

Bigfork playhouse celebrates 60 years of curtain calls

In 1960, Bigfork was a far cry from the affluent artistic hamlet that it is today. There were a handful of restaurants and mom and pop shops that largely catered to the population of fishermen who frequented the area. In the winter months, the meager population depleted even further so that, as one resident said, you could roll a bowling ball down Electric Avenue and not hit a single car.

Film club screens 'Always,' filmed in Libby

The Historic Film Club screens the classic romantic drama “Always” at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26, at the Museum at Central School.

Artists garner top awards at Hockaday's 'A Timeless Legacy'

Shanna Kunz was presented the Lucile Van Slyck Best in Show Award at the Hockaday Museum of Art’s “A Timeless Legacy” exhibit earlier this month. The award was given in recognition of the most outstanding presentation of three works of art.

Ninepipes program celebrates trumpeter swans

It is a thrill to see the big white trumpeter swans in the sky over the Mission Valley, and the Ninepipes Museum in Charlo is celebrating the trumpeter swans with a special program Saturday, Aug. 24.

Whitefish Theatre holds auditions for season opener

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for the 2019-2020 season opening production of “Over the River and Through the Woods” at 7 p.m. Aug. 26 and 27 at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. Arrive early to fill out an audition application and review the script. Enter at the north side of the building near the conference room.

Hightail it to the Whitefish Trail Hootenanny

Celebrate local trails and open lands with Whitefish Legacy Partners’ annual Whitefish Trail Hootenanny event from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, in Depot Park in downtown Whitefish. All ages are welcome, and participants are encouraged to walk or ride their bikes to the event.

Camp restrictions posted at Rising Sun due to bear activity

Rising Sun Campground along the Going-to-the-Sun Road on the east side of Glacier National Park is temporarily limited to hard-sided camping because of black bear activity, park officials said Thursday.

2 lions killed in Columbia Falls park

Two young mountain lions were shot and killed near River’s Edge Park in Columbia Falls over the weekend.

Rebuilding Sperry is a marvel, even in modern times

The logistics of rebuilding the Sperry Chalet dormitory on a stone bluff high up in Glacier National Park are perhaps not as daunting as they were when the original chalet opened in 1913. After all, construction workers have the benefit of power tools and other modern amenities these days.

Letters to the editor Aug. 22

Antisemitism is on the rise and I don’t know why. There isn’t a group of people in the world who has contributed more to science, technology and medicine than the Jews. Israel is the only country in the Middle East that is democratic and truly functional. They have turned a desert into an oasis and produce food for export. The medical instruments they produce rival the Swiss, and their military is one of the most advanced in the world.

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- Glacier National Park grand opening of its new astronomical observatory, St. Mary Visitor Center. Tours 9-11 a.m. Dedication 6:15 p.m. Astronomy program 9:30 p.m. to midnight, weather dependent. Public invited.

Smith Valley to vote on fire department staffing levy

The Smith Valley Fire District is once again asking voters to support a mill-levy request that would allow the local fire department to bring on additional paid staff and thus, increase emergency response times.

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- Glacier National Park grand opening of its new astronomical observatory, St. Mary Visitor Center. Tours 9-11 a.m. Dedication 6:15 p.m. Astronomy program 9:30 p.m. to midnight, weather dependent. Public invited.

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- Glacier National Park grand opening of its new astronomical observatory, St. Mary Visitor Center. Tours 9-11 a.m. Dedication 6:15 p.m. Astronomy program 9:30 p.m. to midnight, weather dependent. Public invited.

Full moon on display in coworker spat

An employee called Kalispell Police Department to report a man and woman in a parking lot on U.S. 93 South who allegedly wanted to fight their coworker. The dynamic duo were told to leave because they were reportedly drinking and “being belligerent.” The man, who was already wearing saggy pants, apparently mooned them.

4-vehicle crash injures 2, snarls traffic

A four-vehicle crash late Tuesday afternoon near the intersection of U.S. 2 and West Reserve Drive in Evergreen sent two people to the hospital and snarled traffic for nearly two hours.

Clarity level of Flathead Lake leads Montana

Flathead Lake Biological Station director Jim Elser delivered his State of the Lake address during the bio station’s recent open house, honing in on the blueness of the lake as it relates to water quality.

Frederick William Herman Griepp, 98

Frederick William Herman Griepp, 98, passed away on July 20, 2019, staying in his own home of 69 years and achieving his goal of not going to a nursing home. His death marks the end of an era as he was the longest-living person ever on both sides of his family.

Ryan Jackson Hensley, 22

Ryan Jackson Hensley, 22, of Kalispell, passed away on Aug. 12, 2019.

Fair gate revenue up 13% from 2018

With gate revenue up four out of the five days of the Northwest Montana Fair, overall revenue increased 13% compared to last year, Fairgrounds Manager Mark Campbell told the county commissioners on Monday.

Special CWD deer licenses snatched up quickly

Hunters quickly swooped up the 600 licenses that went on sale Monday morning as part of the Libby special Chronic Wasting Disease hunt.

Sally Kay Bertelsen, 51

Sally Kay Bertelsen, 51, died of a pulmonary embolism June 18, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kalispell Council approves $80 million budget

The Kalispell City Council on Monday approved a $80 million budget for fiscal year 2020, but postponed a decision on the city’s financial contribution to the Flathead City-County Health Department.

Dan Moore, 71

Dan Moore was born in Los Angeles on March 13, 1948. In 1960 his family moved to the Olancha/Lone Pine area and Dan started what became his lifetime passion — archery/bowhunting. The next years were school, then summers working the Cottonwood Pack Station, in the High Sierras.

Flathead reveals renovations, celebrates new era for school

The unveiling of the approximately $19 million Flathead High School construction project to the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday was a time to celebrate the future, but also remember the past.

Margaret A. Smith, 68

Margaret A. Smith, 68, of Kalispell, was born the seventh of eight children to Edward and Agnes Iona (Egan) Earley on May 27, 1951, in Binghamton, New York. She graduated from Catholic Central High School in 1969.

Henry A. Herman, 74

Henry A. Herman, 74, passed away on Aug. 18, 2019, at The HealthCenter in Kalispell.

Scantily clad man reported to police

A man spotted in an alley wearing only a “very small loincloth” was reported to the Kalispell Police Department.

Kalispell Police apprehend Washington fugitive

A wanted fugitive from Washington state was apprehended by Kalispell Police Monday afternoon near Woodland Park.

Glacier Park trails reopen following bear activity

Glacier National Park reopened the Highline Trail, Loop and the closed portion of the Swiftcurrent Pass Trail Tuesday morning after a day of patrol on Monday and a night of observation yielded no further bear sightings.

Tribes, Lake County spar over road

A dispute about jurisdiction over an access road to a recreational vehicle park in Big Arm led the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to sue Lake County in federal court in May, citing claims the road remained in trust for the tribes with the United States government.

Preliminary work for final phase of bypass begins

Beginning this week, the Montana Department of Transportation will begin to study what will become the final phase of the U.S. 93 bypass in Kalispell.

Man's report fit for a country song

A man calling from Montana 40 in Columbia Falls told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office he reportedly believed his ex stole his boat. His report started sounding like a country song when he claimed the mother of their two children and his ex-friend of five years stole his firearms, a boat, a bed and photographs.

Kalispell Schools move forward with $68.1M budget

Kalispell Public Schools will operate on a $68.1 million budget for the 2019-20 school year.

Golf season begins for Flathead, Glacier

GREAT FALLS — The high school golf season got started on Monday with the 36-hole Great Falls Invitational.

Grizzly activity causes temporary trail closures in Glacier

Glacier National Park temporarily closed access to the Granite Park area Sunday due to what officials described as unusual grizzly bear activity.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 1-6 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Couple train minds and bodies through aikido

The Japanese term “Ai” translates to harmony, “Ki” to the things of which everything is and what holds everything together, and “Do,” to a dedicated path. And when placed together to form the word aikido, the meaning becomes a proverb of sorts: a path toward harmonizing with the natural flow of the universe.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 1-6 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Whitefish council to vote on controversial apartment project

A proposal to build a 54-unit apartment complex on Skyles Place in Whitefish could be rejected by the Whitefish City Council tonight as it makes a final decision on the project.

Kalispell council to vote on $80M 2020 budget

The Kalispell City Council will vote tonight on an $80 million budget for fiscal year 2020. The final budget comes in almost $2 million higher than the preliminary budget proposed in July.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 1-6 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Woman breaks the bank over man

Kalispell Police Department responded to a call about a woman screaming for help who was allegedly being pushed by a man. The man calimed she jumped in front of his truck trying to keep him from leaving. He alleged she had thrown a piggy bank at him earlier. The woman and their son were purportedly supposed to be “gone from his home.”

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Crew Ezekiel Charlebois, son of Dillon and Ashlee Charlebois of Kalispell, was born June 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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Crew Ezekiel Charlebois, son of Dillon and Ashlee Charlebois of Kalispell, was born June 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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Crew Ezekiel Charlebois, son of Dillon and Ashlee Charlebois of Kalispell, was born June 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Pikachu takes the cake at fair cookie contest

The Crafty Cookie Contest at the Northwest Montana Fair has been going on longer than most of its participants have been alive.

Montanans should be alarmed by choice of new BLM chief

Imagine for one unsettling moment what it would mean to Montana if Glacier, Yellowstone, the Bob Marshall, the Beartooth Mountains, and all other lands and waters belonging to the American people were sold off.

Flathead jobless rate lowest since 2008

Flathead County’s unemployment rate has dipped to its lowest point since 2008, according to Kalispell Job Service Manager Laura Gardner, who has tracked local employment trends for years.

Path to a 2nd House seat is by accurate, complete Census

Rather than helping Montana regain a second U.S. House seat, Republican Sen. Fred Thomas (Daily Inter Lake Aug. 11) has chosen to take partisan political potshots and spread misinformation surrounding the Trump administration’s now abandoned plan to include a “citizenship question” on the 2020 Census.

Trump's affinity for tyrannical leaders

I couldn’t disagree more with the points Mickale Carter was attempting to make in his letter (July 25). In particular, Mr. Carter’s view that Trump’s rhetoric regarding the so-called “Squad” is a mere “political disagreement” cannot be reasonably supported.

Boyle a fitting moniker for new Flathead gym

Gene Boyle’s legacy was long and deep in the Flathead Valley, and we can’t think of a better person to commemorate in naming the new Flathead High School gymnasium.

Repressive legislation and mass hysteria

Violent criminal acts that result in the deaths and injuries of multiple victims, like the shootings in El Paso and Dayton last weekend, are without a doubt symptoms of serious social dysfunction in the American polity today, one sign among many of a malaise broadly affecting our country and our world today, the causes of which are not easily identified nor agreed upon, let alone addressed in a meaningful way by legislation or other political action or independent social action.

Flood insurance company relocates Kalispell headquarters

Aon Edge Private Flood Insurance recently relocated to a new state-of-the-art facility on the west side of Kalispell. The new location at 1327 U.S. 2 West serves as the headquarters for the national private flood insurance company.

Crews work at feverish pace to complete rebuild by fall

Workers for the general contractor toil eight days straight, in 10-hour shifts, before hiking the 6-plus miles out for six days off.

Bike raffle suspected to be fraudulent

Someone complained to the Kalispell Police Department about a “scam panhandlers are pulling near [an] intersection.” He reported a “panhandler” would “sell” tickets to passersby for a chance to win his “nice bike.” The caller suspected “the panhandlers aren’t even homeless,” so he was “annoyed by what they’re doing.”

Soap maker touts eco-friendly products

Coconut at Sea Soap Co. founder Sarah Harding of Whitefish has a simple philosophy about her new eco-friendly business: “We help people get clean without mucking up the planet.”

Flathead health center gets behavioral health grant

The Flathead Community Health Center recently was awarded a $167,000 grant that will go toward incorporating more integrated behavioral health services between the center and Gateway Community Services in Kalispell.

Letters to the editor Aug. 18

I support rational gun control as a fourth-generation Montanan, a pastor, the mother of a victim of gun violence, the widow of a Navy vet who served as a deputy sheriff, and as a hunter.

AG Fox is wrong on oil trains

On July 17, Montana Attorney General Tim Fox joined North Dakota seeking to block a Washington state law that would help protect its citizens from exploding oil trains. Fox needs to reconsider his position, particularly as oil trains rolling through the Flathead Valley could harm West Glacier, Columbia Falls, Whitefish and our priceless Flathead water.

Glacier High School restarts attendance incentive

Glacier High School is reintroducing an attendance incentive this year with a goal to reduce absenteeism.

Lakers' Stultz on AA all-state Legion baseball team

The Daily Inter Lake

Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo Few changes on final night

Final night, full house, but just a few changes in the final standings at the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

PHOTOS: PRCA Rodeo at NWMT Fair

Photos from the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell on Aug. 15-17.

'Angering the gods' is risky business

One rightfully could call this year’s spring and summer weather in the Flathead fickle. While local long-timers know June is considered “the rainy month,” this year glorious dry June weekends jump-started our warm-weather recreating.

Ryan Jackson Hensley, 22

Ryan Jackson Hensley, 22, of Kalispell, passed away on Aug. 12, 2019.

Lucille E. Nelson, 92

On Aug. 3, 2019, Lucille E. Nelson, 92, went home to be with the Lord and her many friends and descendants. Lucy was surrounded by her loving family as she passed.

Richard Dennis Cohen, 66

Richard Dennis Cohen was born May 13, 1953, and passed away July 13, 2019. He lived each precious day of his 66 years to their fullest, with a wide-open sense of wonder and profound love for life. Richard moved from California to Whitefish in 1980 after attending Sonoma State University and the University of California, Berkeley. In the early days Richard operated a snowplow business, then moved on to help develop, build and distribute Phoenix Composting Toilet Systems with his friend and mentor Glenn Nelson. Eventually Richard became a licensed master electrical contractor specializing in solar installations. True to form, many of Richard’s customers became friends as did the young electricians he mentored.

Total at fair stock sale tops $560,000

Gross sales at the Northwest Montana Fair Stock Sale this year totaled $562,291, a bit lower than last year’s sales total, according to fair officials.

Veterans facility gets sizable donation

An anonymous donor has given $150,000 to the Camp Ponderosa Veterans Retreat and Learning Center in the Swan Valley, with the goal of inspiring other benefactors to consider financially supporting the new facility for veterans.

Fair parade winners announced

The 2019 Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo Parade made its way down Kalispell’s Main Street Friday morning with a theme of “Capture Montana’s Best Days of Summer!”

Fair comedian aims to bring joy to the masses

Bill Robison can hardly sit still inside the Northwest Montana Fair office — his hands fly about while he speaks, matching his expressive face as he bounces from one story to the next.

Local doctors to present real-life procedures

Next Thursday, four doctors in the Flathead Valley will take audience members behind the scenes into real-life procedures and treatments performed at North Valley Hospital, Kalispell Regional Medical Center and Montana Children’s Specialities.

Lt. governor tours Olney marijuana testing facility

Montana Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney spent Thursday afternoon touring Stillwater Laboratories in Olney — the longest-standing state-certified medical marijuana testing facility in the state.

Beer burglar says he's sorry

The Kalispell Police Department was informed that three teenage boys stole beer, and one had already opened one and taken a drink when the caller caught up to him. The teen apologized.

City of Kalispell gearing up for changes to utility rates

The Kalispell City Council is reviewing and updating its utility rates for the first time in eight years and delved into the process of setting new sewer and water rates during a work session Monday night.

Kalispell survey seeks input on trail plan

The Kalispell Planning Department is seeking participants to take a survey about walking and biking in Kalispell.

Top mark for world champ bull rider Kimzey

Sage Kimzey had been waiting to draw the bull Excessive Force for a long, long time.

Twins' Clark-Dickinson all-state, all-conference in Legion baseball

Coby Clark-Dickinson of the Glacier Twins has been named to the Class A Montana/Alberta American Legion baseball all-state team from the Western District.

Douglas Eugene Hedman, 63

Our dearest son, father, brother, grandfather, uncle and friend, Douglas Eugene Hedman from Kalispell, left this world on Aug. 14, 2019, surrounded by his loving family.

Two arrested in local drug bust

Kalispell police officers on Wednesday arrested Kevin Gaethle and Nicole Chappel for possession of dangerous drugs with intent to distribute.

FHS plans to name gym after Gene Boyle

Flathead High School wants to name its new gymnasium after Gene Boyle, a longtime coach, dean of students and activities director at the school.

Bouncing bunnies hop to it in fair contest

It was a hopping good time in the Rabbit and Poultry Barn at the Northwest Montana Fair Thursday morning. Competitors ranging from young “sprouts” to experienced adults coaxed, cheered and tickled their rabbits through an obstacle course at the Rabbit Hopping Competition while a large crowd cheered on the bouncing bunnies.

County gets grant to study Evergreen wastewater system

Flathead County is one of 19 Montana communities to receive a planning grant to support the development of infrastructure projects, according to a press release from the Montana Department of Commerce.

Screws are loose on Kalispell city streets

Someone told the Kalispell Police Department she was worried about “plates on the roadway being held down by screws.” Apparently, the screws had become loose and were a potential danger to drivers, according to the caller. But it turned out many drivers had already driven over the plates “without any issues.”

Flathead Lakers hire executive director

The Flathead Lakers, based in Polson, has hired Kate Sheridan to replace Robin Steinkraus, who retired last month as executive director.

D&T's cowboy fries with jalapeno slaw named best fair food

Visitors flock to the Northwest Montana Fair for many reasons.

Kalispell superintendent to retire at end of school year

Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent Mark Flatau, who led the school district through a pivotal time of growth during the past several years, will retire at the end of the 2019-20 school year.

Charles Dean Weimer, 31

Charles Weimer, born in Minneapolis on March 13, 1988, died on Aug. 4, 2019, in a plane crash in Alaska. The cause of the crash is under investigation; the plane is speculated to have been caught in a down draft and was not able to clear the mountains. The aircraft had two controls and the second pilot in command was the owner of the plane; the person at the controls will remain unknown.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Eureka High School. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 293-6344.

Not just another night at the opera

Alpine Theatre Project professional theatre company continues its “Summer of Inspiration” with “OperaLesque.”

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Eureka High School. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 293-6344.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Eureka High School. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 293-6344.

Weekly events Aug. 15-24

THURSDAY, AUG. 15

Dogs, subs are newest AIS detection tools

Dogs and submarines took center stage at the Flathead Lake Biological Station open house last week as a large crowd learned more about the station’s efforts to detect and prevent aquatic invasive species from entering lakes and waterways in the Flathead Lake watershed.

Northwest Montana Fair results

Fine Arts – Open CLASS

4-H showmen know hogs can have a mind of their own

Makenna Woody knew her first time in the swine showmanship ring would be a bit of a wild card.

Music's in the air at the Northwest Montana Fair

The Northwest Montana Fair is in full swing this week at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell. While you and your family are enjoying the rides, Midway games, great fair food and sights and sounds, take a break and take in some lively live entertainment.

Lakeside park expansion will benefit all

Philanthropy has benefited Flathead County communities in myriad ways, from improving our community college to building new sports complexes and performing arts centers. Our lives are richer here, thanks to the generosity of civic-minded folks.

Woman feels entitled to drugs

Kalispell Police Department responded to a report of a woman who allegedly was yelling and screaming that “everyone needs to buy her drugs.”

An evening with Garrison Keillor and the Coeur d'Alene Symphony

Garrison Keillor will join the Coeur d’Alene Symphony for a special performance at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 14 to celebrate the opening evening of the remodeled Schuler Performing Arts Center on the North Idaho College campus.

Solar-powered outdoor films screen in Polebridge

Oscillation Transia Film Fest is returning to Polebridge Saturday, Aug. 17.

Ancient ponderosa pine near Creston torched by lightning

Don Hauth believes the colossal ponderosa pine he once dubbed “the sentinel” was likely alive and growing in 1431 when Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in France.

Letters to the editor Aug. 15

Imagine if you will a typical small American town. In this town is quietly living a mother whose son holds extremely unpopular and racist beliefs. Also living in this town is a group of people dedicated to inclusiveness and love. Ironically, upon learning that this family is quietly living among them, one of the group decides that the best thing to do would be to threaten the mother’s business and try to purportedly extort money from her. This action in turn prompts a completely different racist to encourage other racists to harass the extortionist.

High marks (90) for Elliott, Wright

By DAVID LESNICK

Flathead, Glacier golfers start fall play in Great Falls

A new coach, high expectations for a junior all-state player and plenty of optimism are the key items associated with high school golf this fall season for Flathead and Glacier.

George Patrick 'Pat' Lee, 88

“The future doesn’t belong to the fainthearted; it belongs to the brave.” — Ronald Reagan

FFA student creates successful hog business

By KATE LUFKIN

Richard Dennis Cohen, 66

Richard Dennis Cohen was born May 13, 1953, and passed away July 13, 2019. He lived each precious day of his 66 years to their fullest, with a wide-open sense of wonder and profound love for life. Richard moved from California to Whitefish in 1980 after attending Sonoma State University and the University of California, Berkeley. In the early days Richard operated a snowplow business, then moved on to help develop, build and distribute Phoenix Composting Toilet Systems with his friend and mentor Glenn Nelson. Eventually Richard became a licensed master electrical contractor specializing in solar installations. True to form, many of Richard’s customers became friends as did the young electricians he mentored.

County Planning Board considers subdivision for church

A request for preliminary plat approval for a subdivision that would span nearly 41 acres for a proposed Saint Herman Orthodox Church tops today’s Flathead County Planning Board agenda.

Brothers submit 100 entries in race for top exhibitor award

Each August, the Northwest Montana Fair showcases the Flathead’s finest — the best livestock, tastiest jams and jellies, largest vegetables and finest crafts.

Myrtle Lillian (Kramer) Hutchens, 94

Myrtle Lillian (Kramer) Hutchens, 94, peacefully passed into the arms of the Lord on Friday, Aug. 9, 2019, as a result of a heart attack.

Frederick William McFarland, 81

Frederick William McFarland, 81, passed away on Aug. 9, 2019, in Kalispell.

Fewer trail miles proposed for Whitefish project

The United States Forest Service proposes to drop 12 miles of new trails originally tied to the proposed Taylor Hellroaring Project but would approve construction of trails totaling 28 miles in the Whitefish Face — the southernmost portion of the Whitefish Range.

Roger Ludwig Jr., 63

Roger Ludwig Jr., 63, passed away in his home in Columbia Falls on Aug. 10, 2019, from cancer after a courageous fight, surrounded by his loving family.

Partying Canadians on the roof

Someone called Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report a “vacation rental by owner” on U.S. 93 South had a group of Canadian guests who were making a racket and one morning there were allegedly eight to 10 people on the roof “clanging beer cans and blaring music.” The caller said they went over to ask them to keep it down and the group “seemed to agree,” but hadn’t “toned it down.”

The Mann Gulch fire took her brother

Millie Heister of Kalispell experienced two strong reactions when reading the Aug. 5 feature story in the Daily Inter Lake about the 70th anniversary of the Mann Gulch wildfire.

Fair to feature 3 big nights of PRCA rodeo action for the fair

If you are undecided on which night is the best one to attend the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo, it doesn’t really matter as the lineup for all three performances is once again loaded with talent.

Girl killed by falling rocks in Glacier Park

A 14-year-old girl died Monday from injuries she suffered when falling rocks struck a vehicle on the Going-to-the-Sun Road in which she was a passenger, according to a press release from Glacier National Park.

Sailors escape serious injury in storm

Six people and one dog were rescued Saturday evening by Lake County Search and Rescue after three sailboats beached on Bull Island in Flathead Lake during a severe storm with winds upwards of 50 mph. Only minor injuries were reported by the sailors on board, although some boats sustained damage to their hulls and engines.

New feature provides interactive education area

New this year to the Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo, the Discovery Stage is located in the Expo Building and features an interactive educational area designed to teach and showcase the many talents, hobbies and learning opportunities available to everyone in the community.

Woman thinks she discovered meth lab

A woman called Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, believing she “located a meth lab on the Pig Farm Trails.” Deputies found the structure she described, but only found a few empty water bottles inside.

Local man pleads guilty to homicide

A Flathead Valley man accused of murdering a Coram resident on Valentine’s Day this year pleaded guilty to the offense Aug. 8, in Flathead County District Court.

Couple aims to expand Lakeside's Volunteer Park

They’re at it again.

Town Pump eyes zoning change for new facility

A request from Town Pump to rezone its property on the southwest corner of Cemetery Road and U.S. 93 South tops the Kalispell Planning Board agenda at tonight’s meeting. The zone change would allow them to build a new convenience store and casino on the property.

Man dies in fall at Lost Prairie Boogie

An experienced skydiver who was skydiving at the Lost Prairie Boogie near Marion died Saturday morning after a parachute malfunction.

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- Creston School board meets 7 a.m.

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- Creston School board meets 7 a.m.

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- Creston School board meets 7 a.m.

Irene Braaten, 93

Irene Braaten passed away at the age of 93 the morning of Friday, August 2, 2019, at Palouse Country Assisted Living, Fairfield, Wash., a farming town South of Spokane. Irene was the widow of Howard Braaten, a WWII veteran who died in 1964.

Pauline Voorhees, 88

Pauline Voorhees, age 88, died on August 8, 2019, in Wake Forest, North Carolina. Pauline was born on September 23, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan, to parents Henry and Helen Van Duine. She attended Hope College, married Hank Voorhees and lived in Michigan, Illinois, California, Montana and North Carolina.

Earl Eugene Lowery, 76

Earl Eugene Lowery, 76, passed away Wednesday, August 7, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center surrounded by his family, after succumbing to his battle with kidney and heart disease.

George Robert Mahoney, 67

George Robert Mahoney passed away Aug. 2, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center after a long brave battle with cancer. He passed from the loving hands of his wife into the hands of our Savior. George was born June 27, 1952, in Wilmington, Delaware, to John and Violette Mahoney. His father worked as a personnel officer for the Veterans Administration Hospitals and Centers. Therefore, the family lived all over the United States.

Christa Kloetzke, 84

Christa Kloetzke, 84, passed away on July 4, 2019, at her home in Columbia Falls.

Donald R. Larsen, 93

Donald R. Larsen, 93, passed away June 17, 2019, at Lakeview Care Center in Bigfork.

Data shows unusually high distribution of painkillers in NW Montana at height of crisis

Data recently released by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration shows more than 245 million prescription pain pills were supplied to Montana from 2006 to 2012, with about 13 percent of that total being confined to Flathead County.

Alleged bicycle thieves beat man up

A man told Kalispell Police Department that he was being followed by a black car while riding his bicycle home when the vehicle allegedly pulled in front of him and three people wearing red bandannas on their faces beat him up and stole his bicycle.

Letters to the editor Aug. 12

How sad that one of the last female grizzlies in the Cabinets has been shot dead by backpackers. Instead, a couple of cans of bear spray could have allowed her not only to survive, but also to learn a valuable lesson for the future.

Valley cleans up after severe storm

On Sunday, residents around the Flathead Valley were out with chainsaws, handsaws, blowers and rakes cleaning up broken branches, fallen trees, leaves and other debris after a powerful thunderstorm moved through the Flathead Valley Saturday night.

Longtime Rotary volunteer oversees popular sports program

Scott Williams has dedicated much of his adult life toward improving the lives of children in the Flathead Valley through youth sports.

Mystery of Sen. Thomas Walsh's death

His sensational investigation of the Teapot Dome scandal made Montana U.S. Sen. Thomas Walsh a national figure, known for his ironclad honesty, and his earnestly disciplined approach to his senatorial duties. There is no known picture of him smiling.

Kalispell considers updating sewer, water rates

The Kalispell City Council will hold a work session this evening to discuss a study of the city’s water and sewer rates. The meeting will include an overview of the process of analyzing the city’s current rates in order to propose updated utility rates.

Kalispell man dead in motorcycle wreck

A 65-year-old Kalispell man died in a traffic accident Saturday morning on U.S. 2 west of Marion.

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Larry Bradley, son of Clay and Lauren Bradley of Whitefish, was born June 17 at North Valley Hospital.

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Larry Bradley, son of Clay and Lauren Bradley of Whitefish, was born June 17 at North Valley Hospital.

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Larry Bradley, son of Clay and Lauren Bradley of Whitefish, was born June 17 at North Valley Hospital.

Bertha R. Watson, 84

Bertha R. Watson, 84 passed away Aug. 5, 2019 surrounded by family at the home of her daughter Barbara “Bobbie” Franson in Olney. Bertha was born Nov. 3, 1934 in Shelby.

Storm leaves thousands without power in Bigfork area

Thousands of homes were without power Sunday after a powerful thunderstorm passed through the Flathead Valley Saturday evening.

Letters to the editor Aug. 11

Let’s look at things a little differently and shift from the Second Amendment argument to the First Amendment. The following opinion is meant to examine a small segment of the population: Unstable persons with clear violent intent.

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- Whitefish Huckleberry Days Arts Festival, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free admission.

Caskets

Frontierswoman Josephine Doody, the bootlegger lady of Glacier National Park, lies buried amidst the muckety mucks — the two former governors, the doctors and lawyers and business executives of early Kalispell.

Past opioid use staggering, but correctable

Most Americans are well aware of the opioid crisis fueled in past years by the rampant abuse of prescription painkillers. It’s been in the headlines again and again, and opioid addiction has been a heartless and often deadly intruder in many families.

Marine partners with nonprofit for adaptive wakeboarding excursions

Fifteen year old Tristan Dishon bobs in the water outside the Marina Cay Resort, hands on the rope, ready to go. Two volunteers wade beside him, positioning his adaptive wakeboard into position for launching. The boat pulls forward slightly until the rope grows taught.

Whitefish boutique crosses half-century mark

The Village Shop in Whitefish is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Tami Yunck has owned the clothing store since 2006, and she said the shop has “made a lot of changes” in the past half-century.

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- Whitefish Huckleberry Days Arts Festival, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free admission.

Seeing an old farm in a new light

Sometimes, finding one’s “happy place” is as simple as rediscovering a backyard.

New BLM director Pendley is fooling no one

Montanans are not fools. Hunters, anglers and outdoorspeople, we know how to spot a wolf – especially when they are in wolf’s clothing. New Bureau of Land Management head William Perry Pendley is fooling no one. He’s not even wearing a disguise.

Pendley's appointment great news for Montana

The hysterical reaction by the left to the appointment of William Perry Pendley to serve as director of the BLM deserves a response.

Whitefish gets state variance for water connections

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality has granted Whitefish a deviation variance that once again allows for new water connections to the city system.

Census Bureau to begin verifying homes

Over the next few weeks and into October, workers with the U.S. Census Bureau will be verifying housing units to ensure a more accurate mailing list is compiled for the 2020 census count that begins next spring.

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- Whitefish Huckleberry Days Arts Festival, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Free admission.

New restaurant features traditional Vietnamese soup

Pho 888 held a delayed grand opening on July 29 after a few weeks of extra preparation, but owners Thomas and Shannon Trinh have been getting ready to open their own Vietnamese restaurant in Kalispell for far longer.

2020 Census: Second seat in Congress on the line

As the Districting and Apportionment Commission begins their work, I am encouraged by the leadership of the Commission’s presiding officer, Sheila Stearns. After speaking with her early on, I believe the Montana Supreme Court did a fine job in selecting her for this important role.

First rabid bat of season identified

The Flathead City-County Health Department identified the first rabid bat of the season this week, according to a press release.

Road rage: sledgehammer vs. baseball bat

There was more road rage in the Flathead Valley, with an incident reported between a heavily tattooed man with a sledgehammer and another driver with a baseball bat. The disputing drivers apparently went their separate ways, according to the Kalispell Police Department.

Kalispell embarks on transportation plan update

The city of Kalispell has one of the most outdated long-term transportation plans in the state, despite being part of the second fastest growing county in Montana, but city officials and the Montana Department of Transportation are looking to change that.

Locals ketchup with the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile

When the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile rolled into the Kalispell Super 1 Foods parking lot Friday morning, Val Heisler could hardly contain her excitement. She had her phone at the ready halfway down the parking lot as she half-walked, half-jogged toward the iconic hot dog-shaped vehicle. The Wienermobile stopped at Super 1 stores in Kalispell and Evergreen on Friday and will visit grocers in Kalispell, Whitefish and Columbia Falls over the weekend, before heading to Spokane. The hot dog on wheels that visited the Flathead Valley is one of six vehicles traveling the country spreading joy, hot dog samples and puns wherever they go.

Stillwater student gets top score on national entrance exam

Seventeen-year-old Tessa Harmon earned a perfect score of 36 on her first attempt taking the ACT.

Class AA athletics adjust to expansion

By DAVID LESNICK

Executive leader of Montana Children's resigns

The executive leader of Montana Children’s, Teresa Fisher, has resigned from her role after less than two months on the job, according to Kalispell Regional Healthcare.

1 armed robbery suspect remains at large

One suspect wanted in connection to an armed robbery in Missoula remained at large Friday, while another turned himself in to authorities Thursday night, according to Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino.

Flathead Valley faces Team Germany in legendary mat dual

It was a touch under 90 degrees as wrestlers from the Flathead Valley and Germany started their warmups at Legends Stadium ahead of their dual on Wednesday.

Bigfork man claims $70K in state lottery

The Montana Lottery has awarded over $192,000 in prizes this month, including big payouts to two Flathead Valley residents.

Fall semester continuing ed registration opens

Registration opened this week for more than 170 courses in Flathead Valley Community College’s continuing education program.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Glacier Bank, Bigfork; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Bigfork artist's work featured at Target stores nationwide

Take a walk down one of Target’s personal-care aisles and you just might stumble across the work of local artist Mya Bessette. The Bigfork painter’s piece entitled “Infusion” was selected to be featured on a line of soap products by a natural cleaning company called method, in collaboration with online art marketplace Minted.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Glacier Bank, Bigfork; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Police get scoop on ice cream thief

A food delivery service told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office a man reportedly stole a 1-gallon tub of chocolate or vanilla ice cream on First Avenue in Martin City. The ice cream was valued at $10.99.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Glacier Bank, Bigfork; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Police investigate Village Greens drive-by shooting

Officials with the Kalispell Police Department are seeking any information related to a drive-by shooting that occurred in the Village Greens neighborhood early on July 25.

Man in anthem attack convinced Trump ordered it, lawyer says

MISSOULA (AP) — A Montana man charged with assaulting a 13-year-old boy who refused to remove his hat during the national anthem believed he was doing what President Donald Trump wanted him to do, his attorney said.

Biden, Bullock kick off Iowa State Fair blitz talking guns

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Former Vice President Joe Biden and Montana Gov. Steve Bullock opened the Iowa State Fair's 2020 presidential blitz on Thursday by blistering President Donald Trump and promising to push new gun restrictions.

Judge agrees with $14 million settlement in Whitefish neo-Nazi case

U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen on Thursday adopted a federal magistrate judge’s recommendation that Andrew Anglin, publisher of the neo-Nazi website the Daily Stormer, must pay more than $14 million in damages to Tanya Gersh of Whitefish, who received a relentless barrage of antisemitic threats and messages via an online troll storm from Anglin and his followers.

Air quality expected to improve with incoming rain

Smoke from wildfires burning in Washington, Idaho and Canada contributed to deteriorating air quality Thursday across Northwest Montana.

Pray Lake drowning victim ID'd

Glacier National Park officials have identified the man who drowned Tuesday in Pray Lake as Wales Wai Ming Poon, 64, of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. He was visiting the park with family members when the accident occurred.

Wanted robbery suspects remain at large

Two wanted robbery suspects were still at large as of Thursday evening, according to Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino.

Letters to the editor Aug. 8

Second mass shooting in 24 hours. Not to worry. Local gun-right organizations remain confident that these mass shootings will soon stop ... all by themselves, for no reason at all.

Odd evidence - signs of the times?

Someone calling from Country Way South in Kalispell told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office someone allegedly took down signs on a section of the road that had served as an old easement, but has been blocked for years, and left behind a hatchet and a “Trump hat.”

Public resources and electioneering don't mix

Gov. Steve Bullock came under scrutiny last month in an ethics complaint filed by the Montana Republican Party for his alleged use of public resources to campaign for the Democratic nomination for president. The GOP’s complaint took issue with a Montana Highway Patrol security detail that travels with the governor during his out-of-state campaign trips. The complaint argued that using public resources for campaigning violated a Montana ethics code that prevents public officers from using “public time, facilities, equipment, supplies, personnel or funds” for election purposes.

Backpackers say grizzly shooting was self-defense

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reported Tuesday they are investigating the death of a grizzly bear from a reported self-defense shooting in the Cabinet Mountains south of Troy.

Man believed drowned in Glacier National Park

Rangers in Glacier National Park responded around 4:30 p.m. Tuesday to a report of a man drowning in Pray Lake.

Thelma May Tutvedt Johnson, 92

On Norwegian Independence Day, May 17, 1927, Thelma May was born to Norwegian Immigrants Hans and Andora Tutvedt in Kalispell. She was a little early and was baptized right at the hospital not sure if she was going to survive. She did and welcomed three siblings after herself. Harold in 1929, Paul in 1931, and Doris in 1936. They grew up on a farm in the Stillwater community. Their life was that of a Norman Rockwell Painting — hard work, grow your own delicious food, church at Stillwater Lutheran on Sundays and lots of love.

Clara Elizabeth Albrecht, 87

On Aug. 4, 2019, our Lord and Savior called Clara Elizabeth (Grewe) Albrecht to his heavenly home.

Mindfulness group offers community meditation

Delbert 'Bud' Lowitz, 80

Delbert “Bud” Lowitz, 80, went to be with the Lord, surrounded by family on Aug. 4, 2019. Bud now has answers to all of the questions that Pastor Reiner and Pastor Cutler told him to ask when he gets there.

KLJ Engineering tapped for transportation plan update

The Kalispell City Council on Monday selected KLJ Engineering to provide the engineering services for the Kalispell Area Transportation Plan Update.

Electric co-op plans blood-donation event

Flathead Electric Cooperative is seeking those who would consider making a monetary donation and/or making an appointment to donate a pint of blood during the co-op’s Pulse Project event, scheduled for Sept. 11 and 12. The Pulse Project is designed to support the community by achieving two goals: providing energy assistance for members in need, and collecting donations for our two blood service organizations, the American Red Cross and Vitalant.

Myra (Hagerman) Finck, 90

The family of Myra Finck nee’ Hagerman, announce her passing on Aug. 5, 2019.

Danny Lawrence Henry, 62

Danny Lawrence Henry went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, July 26, 2019.

Barbara L. Thomas, 92

Barbara L. Thomas, 92, passed away on July 27, 2019, in Kalispell. Barbara was born in 1927 high in the Cascade Mountains, where her father was a forest ranger, beginning her life deeply connected to the Earth. Her family were non-tribal Eastern Cherokee, having escaped the Trail of Tears to settle in Southern Illinois. The recipient of a generous Langham Scholarship, Barbara was the first in her family to attend college. She met Ralph I. Thomas at the University of Puget Sound, married and embraced by his family, they were together for 51 years until his death in 2000.

Bigfork receives sizable grants for new library

Two generous grants from organizations with ties to the Bigfork community have been awarded to ImagineIF Libraries and will be put toward securing a new facility in Bigfork.

Visitor unwelcome in Whitefish's 'hoboville'

A man who wanted to have lunch with friends at a park gazebo called Whitefish Police Department to report the area had turned into “hoboville.” He alleged the people who appeared to be camping there had it set up “like it’s their living room.” When he approached the residents of hoboville, they reportedly told him to “(expletive) off and find somewhere else to eat,” and threatened to beat him up. Incensed, the man told dispatchers “thousands of children are upset about the hoboville,” and wanted law enforcement officers to contact him “with results.” Someone — either the man or law enforcement — spoke with the individuals and they reportedly were “going to behave.”

Eamus, Hurlbert, Pearsall share State Seniors golf lead

BILLINGS — Dave Eamus of Billings, Craig Hurlbert of Magnolia, Texas, and Jerry Pearsall of Billings all shot 5-under-par 67s to share the lead after the first round of the Montana State Seniors golf tournament on Tuesday at Lake Hills Golf Club.

Bobcats 14th, Griz 25th in preseason football poll

Montana State is ranked 14th and Montana 25th in the STATS FCS Preseason Top 25 football poll released Tuesday.

Authorities: Man drowns in McGregor Lake

Officials on Tuesday were investigating the death of a man who apparently drowned in McGregor Lake, west of Marion.

Fire danger raised to very high

Cooperating Interagency Fire Officials across Northwest Montana on Wednesday raised the fire danger level from “high” to “very high.” This includes the Flathead Forest, Glacier National Park and state lands.

Constance J. Clark, 85

Constance J. Clark, 85, of Manhattan, passed away July 24, 2019. She was born Feb.12, 1934, to Thomas O’Dea and Mary (Healy) O’Dea in Anaconda.

Audrey N. Ainley-Roubos, 86

On Nov. 18, 2018, Audrey N. Ainley-Roubos, formerly of Kalispell, loving wife and mother, passed away at age 86 in West Jordan, Utah.

Theresa Logan, 75

Theresa Logan, devoted wife, loving mother, cherished sister and dear friend, left us to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on August 1, 2019.

Paul David Kellenberger, 67

Paul David Kellenberger, 67, born March 1, 1952 passed away Monday afternoon, July 15, 2019 in Kalispell. Dave was preceded in death by his older brother James, his father Robert, his wife Rita (Hewitt) and mother Alma. He is survived by his brother John, sisters Joan and Karen, one niece and two nephews. Dave knew a lot of people and those who called him Dave knew him as a friend. If there is one word that could describe Dave, that word would be “perseverance”. His friends and family miss him. Darlington Cremation and Burial Service is caring for Dave’s Family.

Dale G. Harvey, 86

Dale G. Harvey — father, grandfather, uncle, friend, and professor —passed away at his home on July 23, 2019.

Bear hazing goes awry in Glacier

Rangers in Glacier National Park ended up euthanizing a black bear Monday in the vicinity of the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn after the animal suffered an injury from a rubber projectile hazing round.

BNSF investigating report of petroleum sheen

BNSF Railway Co. will be working in the Whitefish River today following a report of a petroleum sheen in the river.

Hunter education classes open for registration in Region 1

Hunter education courses are open to registration in several communities across northwest Montana, including Kalispell, Rexford, Pablo, Trout Creek and Bigfork.

Susan Renee' Braden, 70

Susan Renee’ Braden, daughter of Bernard and Caroline (Bair) Braden, was born in Glendive on March 11, 1949.

Group pulls together farmers, advocates to streamline all facets of valley agriculture scene

Under a warm morning glow, farmer Todd Ulizio kneels between rows of vibrant lettuces, picking heads in colors of purple, green and reddish brown. He clips each plant so the leaves fall into a large tub to be washed, bagged and sold at the Thursday-evening farmers market in Columbia Falls.

Van might be meth lab in disguise

Kalispell Police Department received a call from someone who allegedly thought a van with windows covered up with a “bunch of propane tanks in the back” was a “mobile meth lab.”

Bookmobile helps C-Falls kids keep reading all summer long

Summer is the time to sit back, relax, and if you’re a Columbia Falls youngster, perhaps read a book from the bookmobile.

State office investigating local nonprofit

It has been just over two weeks since Potter’s Field Ministries and other associated nonprofits closed their doors amid a wave of allegations against the organization’s founders — a folding that displaced dozens of church members, put the ministry’s assets in limbo and created a rift in financial transparency between the ministry and its donors.

Officials keep eye on Snow Creek Fire

Officials are keeping a close eye on a wildfire that is burning in the South Fork drainage of the Flathead River in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.

Man dies of suspected drowning in Flathead Lake

POLSON (AP) — Lake County officials are investigating a possible drowning after a man died at Flathead Lake over the weekend.

Roger 'Scott' Sorensen, 79

With indefatigable grace and courage, Roger “Scott” Sorensen died July 30, 2019, at his home in Whitefish.

Potter's Field founder's autobiography sheds light on allegations

The Daily Inter Lake has attempted to speak with Potter’s Field Ministries founders Michael and Pam Rozell multiple times since learning about the allegations of abuse in their intern program. Ministry representatives have said the Rozells are unavailable “due to their schedules” and would like to keep their silence “out of respect to those who have been hurt.”

Council ponders transportation plan update

The Kalispell City Council tonight will focus on how to proceed with a long-overdue update of the city’s transportation plan.

Council mulls 54-unit apartment proposal

A proposal to build a 54-unit apartment complex on Skyles Place is the focus of a public hearing before the Whitefish City Council tonight.

Shoplifter achieves 'frequent-flyer' status

An uncooperative, screaming woman, who had two young children in tow, was detained at a big box store where she reportedly had a reputation as a “frequent flyer.” She allegedly had items in her purse and “switched some tickets.” She was cited and released.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Summit, Kalispell. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 751-4500.

Remembering Mann Gulch - Kalispell woman's memories still vivid of fire that killed her brother-in-law

The Mann Gulch fire blew up as winds intensified on an especially hot, dry August evening. Estimates suggest the lightning-caused blaze covered 3,000 acres in 10 minutes.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Summit, Kalispell. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 751-4500.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Summit, Kalispell. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 751-4500.

Parents reflect on case to be reviewed by U.S. Supreme Court

Kalispell parents Kendra Espinoza and Jeri Anderson and Bigfork parent Jaime Schaefer are the faces of a Montana case regarding religious schools and funding that will have its day in the United States Supreme Court.

Montanans need Daines to pull through on LWCF funding

In the coming weeks, bow hunting season kicks off in states across the West. Every year, thousands of Montanans and visitors hike deep into our public lands to camp, hunt and pass down the traditions that are the backbone to our way of life.

Vietnamese restaurant opens on busy corner

“It takes a long time, but it’s worth it,” Chi Tran said to describe the mentality of her new Vietnamese restaurant, Chi Café. This mindset not only refers to the restaurant’s months-long opening process, but also to the products she serves and her approach to the business.

Caterer switches to take-out barbecue in Whitefish

After serving the Flathead Valley barbecued meat for 15 years as a mobile caterer, Ed McGrew has transformed his business into Ed McGrew’s BBQ joint on Spokane Avenue in Whitefish.

Letters to the editor Aug. 4

While shopping at the Kalispell Costco late in the afternoon on July 30, I encountered something both wonderful and unfortunate. I heard the most wonderful singing from a food court employee. It immediately conjured up images of the market section of Old Town Italy on a warm summer afternoon; shop owners and roaming peddlers would sing as they catered to the public.

Stop playing politics with Land and Water Conservation Fund

A recent campaign led by a Montana political action group placed multiple op-eds and letters in Montana newspapers critical of Senator Steve Daines’ efforts to secure funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. These misguided, misinformed political attacks deserve a response.

It's time for a ratepayer rebellion

We are writing in response to Brad Johnson’s opinion piece (June 23) regarding baseload power. As concerned Montana parents and grandparents, we don’t trust Johnson right now any more than we trust NorthWestern Energy.

Additional public lake access needed

Local infrastructure is bearing the weight of Northwest Montana’s booming tourism industry and a rapidly growing population.

Facilities proliferate to fill growing desire for storage space

Don’t blame unbridled American consumerism alone for the proliferation of self-storage facilities in the Flathead Valley.

100 Fold designs playground equipment for school

Somers Middle School received an innovative set of playground storage structures this week, courtesy of 100 Fold Studio in Lakeside.

PHOTOS: Evergreen Show 'n Shine

Scenes from the 2019 Evergreen Chamber of Commerce Show ‘n Shine at Conlin’s Furniture in Evergreen on Saturday, Aug. 3.

Conference on Aging to honor centenarians

The Department of Public Health and Human Services wants to honor Montana centenarians during the 51st annual Governor’s Conference on Aging Sept. 24 to 26 in Billings. Centenarians will be honored at a banquet at 4:45 p.m. Sept. 24.

Moths damaging Douglas-fir trees across western Montana

Moths described as voracious feeders are damaging Douglas-fir trees throughout western Montana, according to a news release from the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

Pet goose goes wild at local lake

The Kalispell Police Department received complaints that a woman took her pet goose swimming in a lake and it attacked and bit several children. She explained the goose couldn’t wear his harness because he was shedding. The parent of one of the children asked her to leave, but she apparently refused and “went back out to swim with the goose in the lake.” The caller was informed that geese can’t transmit rabies and the incident doesn’t violate state law or county ordinance. But the police advised, “she cannot harbor a goose in the city limits of Kalispell.”

Columbia Falls teen wins national O-Mok-See title

Some people are just born to ride. Just ask friends of the family of Violet Erickson.

Economic forum addresses aging workforce

Montana’s aging workforce will continue to challenge employers, but the state’s transient nature of residents “constantly moving in and out” can work to businesses’ advantage, a top Montana economist told the audience at the Montana Chamber Foundation’s annual Economic Update Series in Kalispell Thursday.

Proposed bill takes aim at vets' pension predators

Companies that prey on veterans’ pensions could face penalties under the FREE Veterans Act, introduced by Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont. on Thursday.

Special hunt planned in Libby area

A special hunting season this fall, and a plan to cull deer from the Libby urban area after the season, is Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks’ latest efforts to curtail the extent of chronic wasting disease affecting deer, elk and moose in Northwest Montana.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Audrey N. Ainley-Roubos, 86

On Nov. 18, 2018, Audrey N. Ainley-Roubos, formerly of Kalispell, loving wife and mother, passed away at age 86 in West Jordan, Utah.

Agencies seek comment on Flathead River plan

One a recent Saturday rafters by the dozens floated the North Fork of the Flathead River and many other people with similar plans drove up the dusty North Fork Road toward Polebridge or beyond.

Redesignation request part of statewide road review

A proposal to redesignate West Reserve Drive in Kalispell from a state urban route to a state primary route — a plan that could expedite funding for improvements to the busy road — is now in the hands of Montana Department of Transportation Director Mike Tooley.

Weekend update

Concert fundraiser

Van Lake Road temporary closure announced

The Flathead National Forest announced Tuesday that a portion of the Van Lake Road on the Swan Lake Ranger District will be closed for public safety from Aug. 5 through Sept. 30 for the Van Lake Improvements Project.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Roberta Joyce (Motichka) Elgin, 81

Roberta Joyce (Motichka) Elgin, 81, passed away peacefully into the arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ surrounded by her family on July 30, 2019, from natural causes related to dementia.

Columbia Falls seeks volunteers for resort tax committee

The Columbia Falls City Council is requesting applications from interested citizens who would like to serve on a resort tax advisory committee.

Crews battle fire near Lower Thompson Lake

A wildlife located near where Sanders, Flathead and Lincoln counties meet was human-caused, according to fire officials.

Road rage ensues on Kalispell streets

A caller told the Kalispell Police Department a black Ford Ranger was driving like a maniac, had cut off several vehicles and flipped him the bird.

Child's body identified as missing son of dead couple

The body of a 2-year-old child who was found at a campground in the West Fisher Creek area in Lincoln County last week has been identified as the son of an Oregon couple who died in a murder-suicide last week near Kalispell.

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- Flathead High School Class of 1969 50th reunion today through Aug. 3. Register at wwwflatheadhsclassof69.com

Hot dog! - Wienermobile is rolling into town

Good news for those who relish a classic American hot dog — the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile is coming to town. The 27-foot hot dog on wheels will be making an appearance at several Flathead Valley grocery stores Aug. 9 to 11. The Wienermobile that’s headed for Montana is one of six mobile hot dogs traveling the country at any time. Each one is piloted by a team of two “hot-doggers” who spread snacks, smiles and hot-dog puns at more than 50 cities in at least 25 states during their year-long journey.

Man defines the meaning of 'restroom'

A store manager asked Kalispell Police Department to remove a man found sleeping in a bathroom. After the manager woke him up, he reportedly refused to leave, instead, he began eating chips he stole from the store.

Somers lake access impacted by high summer traffic

It’s the middle of a Sunday afternoon and the Somers Fishing Access is swarming with boaters. The site’s 28 parking spots are filled, yet a long stream of truck and trailers wait to enter from U.S. 93. The highway itself is lined with vehicles on either side and pedestrians and cyclists flow in from the bike path along the shoreline. Inside the lot, the scene is equally chaotic, as drivers jockey for position to either load or launch their watercraft on the two-lane boat ramp.

Letters to the editor Aug. 1

Evan Barrett’s 600+ word letter (July 28) claiming President Trump launched a racist attack on “four women of color” was precisely what you could expect from a man who has devoted his life to the DNC from the state to the national level.

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- Flathead High School Class of 1969 50th reunion today through Aug. 3. Register at wwwflatheadhsclassof69.com

Vet Center's mission worthy of praise

For 40 years the Kalispell Vet Center has been an important safety net for veterans in need of readjustment counseling and other resources.

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- Flathead High School Class of 1969 50th reunion today through Aug. 3. Register at wwwflatheadhsclassof69.com