Ellington

Fast start helps Helena High defeat Wolfpack

Western AA Boys Capital checks Flathead

Flathead was not an easy mark this time for the Bruins.

Glacier upends Bravettes

By COLIN GAISER

Firefighters battle house fire in Martin City

Firefighters from Martin City, Hungry Horse and Bad Rock battled a house fire off Central Avenue in Martin City Thursday afternoon about 2:30 p.m.

Another arctic punch on the way

As the saying goes, March will roar in like a lion as another arctic front bears down on the region, this time bringing the coldest temperatures of the season.

County shelter's barn-cat program 'a big success'

When the Flathead County Animal Shelter launched its barn-cat program at the start of last year, Director Cliff Bennett was unsure whether the service, which spays, neuters and resettles stray cats, would gain traction.

It's the final weekend for 'Mamma Mia'

Only four shows remain of “Mamma Mia!”, Whitefish Theatre Co.’s fun-filled musical based on the hits of pop group of ABBA. Final performances continue Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 28, March 1, and March 2 at 7:30 p.m., as well as 4 p.m. March 3.

All-star cast, band presents rock opera 'Jesus Christ Superstar'

For nearly 50 years, “Jesus Christ Superstar” has electrified audiences around the globe, and has become the standard by which all future rock operas have been measured. For one weekend only in March, an all-star ensemble of singers and rock musicians are joining forces to present Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ’70s rock-infused retelling of Jesus Christ’s final week. Alpine Theatre Project will present “Jesus Christ Superstar” March 8-10 at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center in downtown Whitefish.

Partnership connects students with Glacier

An exciting partnership is taking shape between Glacier National Park and Columbia Falls High School that will provide housing for summer park staff and give building-trades students some valuable hands-on construction experience.

No neighborly accord over extension cord

Someone called the Kalispell Police Department to report their neighbor for running an extension cord from their home across a sidewalk to their car. The caller wanted to know whether the action was legal, even though the neighbor had already picked up the cord when they called. An officer told the caller there was nothing illegal about it. The caller, unsatisfied with that answer, was referred to the city attorney’s office.

Best of Mountainfilm On Tour comes to Whitefish

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation is hosting Mountainfilm on Tour, bringing a selection of culturally rich, adventure-packed and incredibly inspiring documentary films to three cities in Montana in March, including Whitefish.

Letters to the editor Feb. 28

We need a new approach to political discourse. A good model is my dance band: Zino and the Bel Aires. The group is made up of Republicans and Democrats. We will never be divided by political rancor because we have a higher goal: We seek to make music with each other, and create fun for our audience. Our common purpose is more important than abstract political beliefs. We listen and learn from each other. As a band of brothers, we realize that since our colleagues are such wonderful, smart and talented people — whatever they believe must be worthy of listening to, and learning from. I believe that our government would be more productive if congressional members would form barbershop quartets and harmonize with each other. Don’t you?

Weekly events Feb. 28-March 7

THURSDAY, FEB. 28

Jane E. (Schiele) Gabanyicz, 79

Jane E. Gabanyicz passed in Jesus’ arms on Monday, Feb. 18, 2019, surrounded by family at her Kalispell home.

Mark Makers exhibit opens at Hockaday

The Hockaday Museum of Art announces Mark Makers, an exhibition by artists Linda Hendrickson, Shelle Lindholm and Sheri Trepina, that highlights the diversity and versatility in mark making, emphasizing it as a fundamental element of creating art.

Illusionist Vitaly brings magic act to Whitefish

Enjoy a magical night as the Whitefish Theatre Co. hosts Vitaly and his jaw-dropping show “An Evening Of Wonders” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 9, at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Met Live in HD presents 'La Fille du Regiment'

The Metropolitan Opera’s Live in HD broadcast of Gaetano Donizetti’s “La Fille du Regiment,” a delightful romantic comedy about a young woman raised and adored by a French military regiment, will be presented at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center at 10:55 a.m. Saturday, March 2.

Park partners with school to build cabins, opportunities

Sometime in 2020 the Polebridge Ranger Station stands to gain a new residential cabin constructed by students at Columbia Falls High School.

A tough season on the ice

I am sure by now that just about everyone who has ventured out onto a frozen lake in Western Montana has endured the worst of the conditions we see on the lakes when we have a heavy snow year.

Western AA Boys Glacier, Flathead hope to turn it on for divisional play

All eyes will be on the best Class AA boys basketball team in Montana, at least record-wise — Missoula Hellgate — along with AA’s top scorer stat-wise — Hellgate’s Rollie Worster (20.2 per game) and rebounder — Hellgate’s Abe Johnson (8 per game) — at the Western AA Divisional tournament this weekend at Glacier High School.

Guide taps into local ice climbing scene

There’s a certain satisfaction that comes with a solid ice tool placement.

Skijoring chases winter blues away at Rebecca Farm

The adrenaline-fueled sport of equestrian skijoring returns to Rebecca Farm on Saturday and Sunday, March 2 and 3, after being rescheduled from late December due to a lack of snow.

Janice Faith Prier, 59

Janice Faith Prier passed away on Feb. 18, 2019, at her home in Columbia Falls after she lost her battle with cancer.

Upswing in septic permits slows subdivision development

An increase in the volume of septic permit applications has prompted Flathead County to send a portion of its workload to the state Department of Environmental Quality, a process that has led to delays in local subdivision development.

Keith Douglas Decker, 64

Keith Douglas Decker, 64, of Kalispell, born on Nov. 5, 1954, passed away with family by his side on Feb. 19, 2019.

Thinly clad house sitter out in the cold

A house sitter was in a quandary on Hilltop Road in Columbia Falls when he reportedly locked himself out of the house wearing shorts and a T-shirt. He told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office that he didn’t have a place to go to stay warm and that the battery on his phone had 1 percent of power left. He was given the number of a 24-hour locksmith.

Whitefish transit meeting March 11

The city of Whitefish invites the public to attend a public meeting on Monday, March 11, to hear about efforts to reduce congestion and provide alternative modes of transportation downtown and throughout the city. Representatives from the Western Transportation Institute and Eagle Transit will be presenting information related to transit, transportation and parking in Whitefish.

Shepherd's Hand Free Clinic gets new executive director

A change in leadership is underway at the Shepherd’s Hand Free Clinic in Whitefish as the former director of operations, Jennifer Hyatt, trades in her title for executive director, according to an announcement Tuesday.

Esther May Spreacker, 71

On Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019, Esther May Spreacker, loving wife and mother of five children and two stepchildren, went to rest in the arms of Jesus at the age of 71.

Carter Scott Lamoreaux, 5

Carter Scott Lamoreaux was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus on Feb. 19, 2019.

First round crosstown

Flathead, Glacier meet in Western AA divisional

Upham hired as Braves head football coach

Montana native Matt Upham has been tapped to coach the Flathead Braves football team, Activities Director Bryce Wilson announced in a press release on Tuesday.

Smoke detectors alerted Kalispell couple of house fire

A Kalispell couple is safe after smoke detectors woke them up and alerted them to a fire, according to South Kalispell Fire Department Chief Chris Yerkes.

Man attempts to prevent fire with fire

Someone told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office they witnessed someone light a tree on fire on North Fork Road about 12 miles after the pavement ends. The tree was reportedly engulfed in flames. The man who started the fire allegedly said it was a dead tree and he did it for fire control.

Christina Reum Santa, 68

Christina Reum Santa, 68, died Jan. 29, 2019.

Ryan Scott Drollinger Sr., 42

Ryan Scott Drollinger Sr., 42, passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 21, 2019, in Great Falls. He never fully recovered from injuries suffered during an accident in 1998.

Effort launched to create local warming center

Keeping warm during the Flathead’s frigid winters presents a challenge for those without a place to call home and who cannot enter any of the community’s established shelters.

Glacier planning to address crowding, non-native fish

Glacier National Park, whose spectacular features have been carved across eons by powerful forces, remains a work in progress — impacted both by natural forces and by its status as an increasingly popular unit of the National Park Service.

Sheriff's office investigates death in Martin City

A 40-year-old man from the Flathead Valley died Sunday afternoon outside a bar in Martin City and authorities are trying to determine the cause of death.

Dangerous roads close schools in Columbia Falls

School was called off Monday in Columbia Falls due to dangerous winter driving conditions.

Births

Athelia Ainsley Brooke Karr, daughter of Collin and Katieann Karr of Kalispell, was born Jan. 8 at North Valley Hospital.

Indian Education for All makes our schools unique

One of the many things that makes Montana unique is Article X, Section 1(2) of our Constitution which says that our state recognizes the distinct and unique cultural heritage of American Indians and is committed in its educational goals to the preservation of their culture.

Letters to the editor Feb. 25

In Amy Beth Hanson’s report on the Montana Legislature, Marti Vining opposed Rep. Dennis Lenz bill requiring children to be in danger of serious bodily injury or starvation before they could be placed in state care. Opponents argue that the standard does not “protect children who are being sexually or emotionally abused, or when there is domestic violence or drug abuse in the home.”

Fortine woman sentenced for embezzling

MISSOULA—Fortine resident Roseann Robyn Kipp, who admitted stealing from two Eureka community programs, was sentenced Friday to eight months in prison, three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $48,431 restitution, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

Excuses, excuses: Speeders snagged in speed trap

A driver going 47 in a 30 mph zone on Meridian told officers that he realized he was going too fast just “a second too late,” according to Kalispell Police Department logs. Another driver pulled over on Meridian for going 45 mph told officers that the “hill always gets her.” A third driver was clocked going 48 mph in the same spot. All were cited.

Entrepreneur and inventor searches for breakthrough

One product would arm a school principal with a weapon that would provide less-than-lethal or lethal options when confronting a school shooter.

Boys/Girls Basketball Western AA Divisional at Glacier

The Western AA Divisional boys and girls basketball tournament begins a three-day run on Thursday at Glacier High School to determine what four teams out of seven will advance to the Class AA state tournament in Butte on March 7-9.

Quilt Gallery: New owner moves to spacious new store

Quilt Gallery owner Marianne Buller knows that quilters need their space.

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The Kalispell Area Music Teachers Association is sponsoring a concert in memory of the late Betty Hanzel at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 3, at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 602 S. Main St., Kalispell. The concert is free and the public is invited.

A broken system in need of repair

Just days after the Daily Inter Lake published a

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- Jeff Hruby has been promoted to business development director at Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services Inc. (AE2S). Hruby has been with AE2S since 2012, serving as the water resources practice leader, and more recently, also as the firm’s civil practices director. As a licensed professional engineer, Hruby has helped clients with a wide variety of projects over the course of his 20-year career, ranging from air-quality modeling for paper mills to urban stormwater master planning. His experience includes analysis, design and project management on a wide variety of water resources projects.

Linda Daniels Bailey, 77

Linda Daniels Bailey, 77, died at her home in Congress, Arizona, on Feb. 18, 2019.

Geraldine M. Whitehead , 91

Geraldine M. Whitehead, 91, passed away on Feb. 21, 2019, at Immanuel Lutheran Skilled Care Center.

Recollections of Polish diaspora still haunt Eureka woman

Alicja Moskaluk discovered a scrap of bread beneath the pillow of her gravely ill grandmother, Teresa, who was dying of starvation.

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The Kalispell Area Music Teachers Association is sponsoring a concert in memory of the late Betty Hanzel at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 3, at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 602 S. Main St., Kalispell. The concert is free and the public is invited.

Lola Jean Domer Peterson, 81

Lola Jean Domer Peterson left her earthly bonds Feb.16, 2019, in Kalispell, after a short but valiant battle with cancer. Her family and the staff at Brendan House will remember her for the twinkle in her eye and the laughter she shared.

When pragmatism trumps imperialism

For too long we have engaged in a militarily exhibitionist strategy towards foreign policy. It is about time that we withdraw American troops from war-zones that we arguably should have never been a party to in the first place.

LeRoy A. Thompson, 76

LeRoy A. Thompson, 76, passed away peacefully around loved ones Feb. 17, 2019, at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Walla Walla, Washington.

Alta Margaret May, 76

Alta Margaret May, 76, of Whitefish, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on Feb. 14, 2019.

Collaborative effort will preserve Conrad Mansion grounds

For nearly 125 years the east side of Kalispell has been anchored by the impressive Conrad Mansion, surrounded by 3 acres of meticulous landscaping and a handsome dry stone fence.

Primal pursuit Kalispell teen pursues mountain-man lifestyle

Sean McQueen is cut from different cloth.

Protect our future with pre-K legislation

I urge public support for early childhood education, also known as pre-kindergarten.

Is it a fixer upper or money pit?

A caller was thinking about purchasing a house that had a meth lab in the garage, according to Flathead County Sheriff’s Office logs. He wanted to know if the main house needed to be cleaned up, or just the garage.

Glacier Park 'dashboard' to give real-time updates

Glacier National Park visitors should soon have a new way to keep up with conditions inside the park, Park Superintendent Jeff Mow told the Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce last week.

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- Jeff Hruby has been promoted to business development director at Advanced Engineering and Environmental Services Inc. (AE2S). Hruby has been with AE2S since 2012, serving as the water resources practice leader, and more recently, also as the firm’s civil practices director. As a licensed professional engineer, Hruby has helped clients with a wide variety of projects over the course of his 20-year career, ranging from air-quality modeling for paper mills to urban stormwater master planning. His experience includes analysis, design and project management on a wide variety of water resources projects.

Letters to the editor Feb. 24

Stan Watkins is right — LaSalle from K-mart to Reserve needs to be redone. But that’s not enough. Reserve needs to be four lanes — that is a bottleneck every day. Instead of spending more millions redoing the southern U.S. 93 Bypass, how about doing what’s really needed.

Evelyn Susanna Fehr Swift, 91

Evelyn Susanna Fehr Swift age 91, passed away on Feb. 18, 2019, at Hidden Meadow Memory Care in Columbia Falls.

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The Kalispell Area Music Teachers Association is sponsoring a concert in memory of the late Betty Hanzel at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 3, at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 602 S. Main St., Kalispell. The concert is free and the public is invited.

Robin Street, 85

Robin Street passed away peacefully at home Feb. 14, 2019, after a 24-year battle with prostate cancer.

Crusaders take MCAA girls state hoop title

BOZEMAN — Flathead Valley Homeschool pulled away in the second half to beat Heritage Christian School 58-35 in the girls championship game at the Montana Christian Athletic Association state basketball tournament on Saturday afternoon.

Bigfork boys repeat as Western B winners

RONAN — The Bigfork Vikings used a big second half to overcome the Missoula Loyola Rams and win the Western B Divisional boys basketball title 53-43 on Saturday at the Ronan Event Center.

Flathead boys, girls fall to Hellgate in season finale

Flathead ended the regular season with a 69-33 loss to Missoula Hellgate in a Western AA boys basketball clash on Saturday at Flathead High School.

Kats Western A champs

HAMILTON — Columbia Falls claimed the Western A Divisional girls basketball title on Saturday night, defeating Northwest A rival Browning 59-52 at Hamilton High School.

PHOTOS: National Championship Snow Bike Series race

Photos as snow bike racers take warm up laps prior to the start of Round 4 of the 509 National Championship Snow Bike Series race at the ATV park located at 6235 U.S. 93, north of Whitefish, on Saturday. Racing action continues at 10 a.m. next Saturday, March 2, with the Montana Mayhem Offroad Racing Series Frostbite Frenzy ATV/UTV race.

PHOTOS: Flathead Classic dog sled races at Dog Creek Lodge

Photos from the four-dog and six-dog races at the Flathead Classic dog sledding event at Dog Creek Lodge in Olney on Saturday. Festivities continue at 9 a.m. Sunday.

New county K-9 program to focus on narcotics detection

Two canine officers will join the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office this summer, thanks to support and donations from the community for the new Flathead County Sheriff K-9 fund.

SOARS raises bar on mental-health issues, educators say

The legacy of the Montana SOARS grant as it wraps up its final year in Kalispell is a trauma-informed community, with schools that have raised the bar on mental-health awareness and its impact on students.

KMS history lesson includes grinding wheat, churning butter

In Montana History teacher Kris Schreiner’s classroom at Kalispell Middle School there was an uncustomary setup on Tuesday — a pail of winter wheat, grain mill, strainer, half-gallons of heavy whipping cream, jars and heart-rate monitors.

Longtime West Glacier teacher earns state award

Carolyn Wieringa of West Glacier Elementary School has been named the Montana Rural Teacher of the Year.

Neighbor gets cold shoulder over icy situation

Melting snow refreezing into ice was a safety concern for one caller who said their neighbor hadn’t shoveled the sidewalk for several years, according to Kalispell Police Department logs. The caller had reported the issue and a notice was given to the neighbor, but nothing was done about the icy situation.

FVCC lecture looks at Turkey's role in Europe, Middle East

Flathead Valley Community College’s 2019 Honors Symposium continues Thursday, Feb. 28 with an examination of Turkey’s geopolitical role in Europe and the Middle East.

Crusaders to play for MCAA state title

BOZEMAN — The Flathead Valley Homeschool Crusaders outscored Foothills Community Christian School 23-7 in the second half to pull away for a 39-28 semifinal victory at the Montana Christian Athletic Association state girls basketball tournament on Friday.

Western B Divisional Bigfork topples St. Ignatius, faces Loyola in boys final

RONAN — Defending champ Bigfork turned in a solid performance by dropping St. Ignatius 67-53 on Friday night in semifinal play at the Western B Divisional boys basketball tournament at the Ronan Event Center.

C-Falls slips by Libby

The Daily Inter Lake

Weekend update

Free concert

FVCC machinist team grabs first in national competition

A team of six students from Flathead Valley Community College earned first place in the first-ever Phillips Machinist Cutting Edge Parts Competition: Student Edition.

Kalispell gets first bite on Old School Station property

The Kalispell City Council agreed to accept the first purchase offer on one of its six Old School Station properties during Tuesday night’s meeting.

Eleanor Blodgett Carlson, 97

Eleanor Blodgett Carlson was born May 19, 1921, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Harvey P. and Fay B. Blodgett, and passed away of natural causes in Richland, Washington, on Feb. 11, 2019.

Slow car-washer angers waiting man

A man with anger-management issues reportedly asked a woman how long she was going to take at a car wash and she replied “as long as it takes,” to which he responded by spitting at her and calling her a derogatory term. He reportedly drove off heading eastbound in a blue vehicle on U.S. 2 when she called Kalsipell Police Department.

Vehicle raffle has raised $700,000 for local schools

For several school years, the Kalispell Automotive Group has donated a new vehicle to Kalispell Public Schools. This past year, Kalispell Toyota, Kalispell Ford and Kalispell VW once again opened up the raffle to all Flathead Valley public schools, with the option of winning a new Tundra, new F150, or $30,000 vehicle credit. Since its inception nine years ago, the $10 per ticket fundraiser has helped raise over $700,000, directly benefiting participating schools and allowing them to pay for supplies, equipment, and activities.

Challenge to dark money law denied

HELENA — The U.S. Supreme Court said Feb. 19 that it won’t take up a legal challenge to Montana’s 2015 Disclose Act, leaving the state’s flagship anti-dark-money legislation intact.

Local residents lobby for improvements to headache care

Whitefish resident Nicole Christianson vividly remembers the first time she experienced a cycle of cluster headaches in 2014, when the pain of the attack led her to believe something had ruptured in her brain.

AA Basketball Glacier girls beat Hellgate by 10

The Glacier Wolfpack girls basketball team used big performances by Aubrie Rademacher and Ellie Keller and a dominating defensive effort to claim a 44-34 Western AA victory over Missoula Hellgate on Thursday at Glacier High School.

Divisional Basketball C-Falls, Libby girls win Western A openers

HAMILTON — Ryley Kehr tallied a game-high 29 points in leading Columbia Falls (20-1) to a 65-57 first-round victory over Corvallis on Thursday morning at the Western A Divisional girls basketball tournament.

Bigfork boys, girls advance to Western B Divisional semis

RONAN — The Bigfork boys had no trouble taking care of business on first-day action at the Western B Divisional boys basketball tournament Thursday evening at the Ronan Event Center.

Off night dooms Bravettes

A cold shooting night doomed the Bravettes as Missoula Sentinel toppled Flathead 46-29 in Western AA girls basketball action on Thursday at Flathead High School.

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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 406-293-6344.

Health officials talk with Daines about opioid, meth abuse

Sen. Steve Daines, R-Montana, sat down with a panel of Kalispell Regional Healthcare officials and employees on Wednesday to discuss the state’s ongoing struggles with drug abuse and how Flathead County is battling what has been, and continues to be, a “major crisis” throughout Montana.

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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 406-293-6344.

Kila child dies after being hit by vehicle

A 5-year-old child from Kila has died after being accidentally struck by a vehicle driven by a family member on Tuesday, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Rebel Fest rocks Kalispell Eagles

The annual Rebel Fest memorial concert fundraiser will take place from 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22, at the Kalispell Eagles basement, 37 First St. E.

Special Olympics benefit event to stream live on Facebook

Soucie Soucie Salon is hosting a benefit Saturday, Feb. 23, for the Glacier Area Special Olympics.

Little Feat's 50th anniversary tour comes to Wilma

Little Feat is on tour nationally celebrating its 50th anniversary. The band’s tour brings them to The Wilma in Missoula Monday, June 3.

Sharon Lee Talbot Richardson, 77

Our sweet Mom passed away on Friday, Feb. 8, 2019. She died as she lived, with strength, courage and dignity. We will miss her in so many ways.

Grateful for search-and-rescue teams

A couple of close calls in the backcountry last weekend have us singing the praises of our local search-and-rescue outfits.

Bigfork Community Players stage 'Arsenic and Old Lace'

The Bigfork Community Players will present Joseph Kesselring’s classic black comedy “Arsenic and Old Lace” at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts Friday through Sunday.

Vehicle mix-up was just a misunderstanding

There may have been a misunderstanding when a vehicle repair shop employee reportedly took a man’s vehicle from a parking lot on Idaho Street for a test drive, which the vehicle owner reported stolen to Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. The employee said they had a customer drop off a similar vehicle for maintenance work and that the customer’s keys unlocked and started the man’s vehicle.

Kitchen Dwellers come to Great Northern

The Kitchen Dwellers with Kind Country play live starting at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22, at the Great Northern Bar in Whitefish.

Theodore Leonard 'Ted' Hendrickson, 80

Ted went home to be with the Lord, unexpectedly, on Feb. 18, 2019.

Weekly events Feb. 21-28

THURSDAY, FEB. 21

Whitefish Arts Council screens new documentary series

The Whitefish Arts Council is bringing another broadcast series to the Whitefish Performing Arts Center. For the last five years, it has sponsored The Met: Live in HD opera broadcasts and is now branching out to bring a broadcast series that features great artists through history.

C-Falls weighs in on elementary school options

The public last week weighed in on options for Columbia Falls elementary schools, with a contingent saying it’s a tough sell as long as Canyon Elementary School in Hungry Horse remains empty.

Letters to the editor Feb. 21

Two recent articles in the Daily Inter Lake addressed the corruption in the Montana Child and Family Services system.

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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 406-293-6344.

The Robbie Walden Band keeps its country roots

The band’s new album “When The Rooster Crows” was released Feb. 15 on Floating Records and is being hailed as “one honest piece of hope that real country music is still alive in these days to come.” The sound is the very definition of true Americana, heavy with golden five-part harmonies and American songwriting. The recipe of this five-piece band, however, is four parts Washington and one part Idaho, lives cultivated in the Big Sky country under the constant influence of the working man.

Elva Marie Forman, 87

Elva passed away Feb. 18, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.

FV Homeschool, Stillwater Christian high seeds for MCAA state basketball

The Flathead Valley Homeschool boys and Stillwater Christian School girls head to the Montana Christian Athletic Association State basketball tournament as the top seeds from the Western Division.

Showtime for Vikes, Kats

By DAVID LESNICK

Thousands sign petition to sell Montana to Canada to pay down national debt

More than 9,000 people have

Jeneane Taylor, 88

Jeneane Taylor, 88, passed away on Feb. 13, 2019.

Work session to hone details of affordable-housing program

The Whitefish Planning Board will hold a work session at 7 p.m. Thursday to further discuss a proposed Legacy Homes program that aims to create permanently affordable workforce housing in Whitefish.

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

Randy Best, 63

Randy Best, 63, passed away on Feb. 12, 2019, in Kalispell.

Man ensnares federally protected bird with towel

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report from a woman on Reserve Drive Kalispell who said her husband caught an owl and wrapped it in a towel because it allegedly killed one of her chickens. The woman was advised to release the federally protected bird. Fish and Game may have also been dispatched.

Barbara Marie (Sanders) Engel, 72

Barbara Marie Engel passed away unexpectedly on Monday, Feb. 11, 2019, in San Luis Obispo, California.

Aspen Francine McCourt, 36

Aspen Francine McCourt passed away Saturday, Feb, 16, 2019, ending her 15-year struggle with mental illness.

North Valley Food Bank hires new director

Jessy Lee has been hired as executive director of North Valley Food Bank in Whitefish, taking the reins from SueAnn Grogan-King, who had led the food bank for four years.

No shortage of incentives for downtown development

Three speakers outlined new, emerging and often overlapping incentives for Kalispell development at the Chamber’s monthly luncheon Tuesday at the Red Lion Inn.

Job Corps center closing in Ronan

Kicking Horse Job Corps, a longtime Mission Valley tribal job-training program, is closing Feb. 28.

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

Deborah 'Deby' Ann McCartney, 63

Deborah “Deby” Ann McCartney, 63, was born on Jan. 17, 1956, in Kalispell.

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

Hearing planned for proposed Bigfork development

The Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee will hold a public hearing on Thursday to discuss a proposal for preliminary-plat approval of a 68-acre subdivision off Montana 35 in Bigfork.

Big gem and mineral show planned in Kalispell

Two North Valley rock clubs have joined forces to put on a combined Gold, Gem and Mineral Show March 9-10 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

Allen Ingvald Skare, 89

Allen Ingvald Skare, 89, passed away on Feb. 15, 2019, at Edgewood Vista in Kalispell,.

Divisional basketball for A, B in Hamilton, Ronan

The final push for state basketball begins Thursday — in Hamilton for Class A teams and Ronan for Class B schools — with divisional tournaments for boys and girls.

Two rescues retrieve skier, snowmobilers

Volunteers with Flathead Search and Rescue and North Valley Search and Rescue worked with Two Bear Air to respond to two separate incidents that began Sunday and ultimately achieved the rescue of four people stranded in bitter cold. All lived in the Flathead Valley.

Coram homicide said to be linked to meth

The early morning shooting in Coram last week that killed one man and left another charged with deliberate homicide reportedly followed an argument about methamphetamine, according to court filings.

Payless closing mall, Shopko shoe stores

Kalispell Center Mall’s Payless ShoeSource is holding a clearance sale for its final weeks of operation.

Kalispell Regional Healthcare Hospital meets whistleblower settlement mandates

Kalispell Regional Healthcare has met initial deadlines for making required improvements to its compliance program as part of a settlement with the federal government over a whistleblower complaint against the hospital.

Royce Gillman Mikelson, 87

Royce Gillman Mikelson, 87, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Feb.15, 2019, at Immanuel Skilled Care Center in Kalispell.

Edith Ann Leonis, 82

Surrounded by her loving family, Edith Ann Leonis passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 15, 2019, at the age of 82 in Newport Beach, California.

Letters to the editor Feb. 18

Let’s see, Mr. Goodman (letter to the editor Jan. 27) went to town to run errands and heard “have a nice day” 35 times and he’s criticizing it? Just because we don’t all agree doesn’t mean we can’t wish a person well. I personally think that it’s a great tribute to the wonderful people who live here, that they endeavor to be so nice to a stranger. Being grateful makes your life a lot nicer.

Cost of higher education getting out of reach

According to the Chinese Education Center, the budget for tuition-free higher education in China increased by 45 percent from 2007 to 2011 and has continued a similar pace. Enrollment is over 35 million, up from 9 million in 2001. These are indicators of a culture on the rise. Since 2010, enrollment at the Missoula campus of the University of Montana dropped by 22 percent. In the past 30 years or so in Montana, public funding for the university has gone from over 90 percent to less than 17 percent. The deficit has been largely replaced by tuition, which most students can’t afford, so they can’t attend without incurring about $25,000 in debt. These are indicators of a culture in decline. Our grand parents had a vision of the future. To accomplish it they willingly chose to tax themselves to provide free higher education for the generations to follow them. But in the 1980s something sour and cold entered the hearts and minds of citizens and legislators. They continually reduced public funding for higher education and forced the cost onto the students. The dream of our grandparents and the futures of young people have been betrayed by both the regents and the legislators. This betrayal is nationwide, and is one thing at the heart of our national decline.

Engineer finds new life in old decor

Engineer turned home decorator Brad Elliot began rescuing and reviving iconic pieces of the past as a way to recapture the nostalgia of his childhood while utilizing his creative side to build his own business.

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TODAY

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TODAY

Man doesn't understand how police do job

A paranoid man reportedly approached a parked Kalispell Police Department patrol car to ask why the officer was parked and not moving while recording them with his cell phone. The officer told him they were working on patrol and he reportedly said he thought it felt like they were doing surveillance.

Rec program user fee increase is focus of public hearing

A proposal to increase user fees for the city’s recreation programs is the focus of a public hearing on Tuesday before the Whitefish City Council.

Old School Station lot purchase on council agenda

A purchase offer from Haig Ermoian for one of the vacant Old School Station lots south of Kalispell will be on the Kalispell City Council agenda during its Tuesday, Feb. 19, meeting.

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TODAY

Bradley Dean Becker, 29

Bradley Dean Becker, 29, of Kalispell, passed away Jan. 30, 2019, near Marion.

Clifford John Swallow, 80

On Feb. 8, 2019, Clifford John Swallow, 80, passed away peacefully after a lengthy illness in his home surrounded by loving family.

Local health officials tuned into national measles upswing

Although Montana hasn’t been added to the growing list of states battling a measles outbreak, public health officials have turned their attention west to Washington, where the bulk of the nation’s cases have been reported.

Economic forecasts may not affect Flathead

The economic forecast for Montana’s major cities through 2022 is for moderate growth, with a slight deceleration of today’s economic engines.

Infrastructure: Now is the time to build

For a decade or more our Montana Legislature has grappled with the increasing need to renovate both Romney Hall on the MSU campus in Bozeman and the Montana Historical Society museum facility in Helena.

Slow and furious: Man's getaway attempt thwarted

Maybe not the quickest getaway vehicle, a belligerent man attempted to steal an electric shopping cart from a box store. The man had been loud and disruptive in the store before making his getaway. The electric cart was later returned, according to Kalispell Police Department logs.

Local fisheries biologists earn statewide awards

Two fisheries biologists with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks in Region 1 received a pair of awards at the annual meeting of the Montana Chapter of the American Fisheries Society.

Eagle Transit eliminates Evergreen stops

Officials with Area IX Agency on Aging in Kalispell have modified the routes for its Eagle Transit bus service — most notably halting regular commuter stops in Evergreen and adding an orange-line city route in Kalispell, as of the first of the year.

Looming doctor shortage a concern for rural Montana

“The doctor will see you now.”

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TODAY

Staff shortages challenge special-ed programs

Facing a nationwide shortage of teachers — and special-education teachers in particular — schools in Montana are feeling it acutely as the number of students receiving special-education services is on the rise.

Let's keep the miracle of capitalism

To experience a miracle all you need do is go to the grocery store. Here in the middle of winter and Montana you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, bread, fish and almost any kind of food item you can think of. Then you have drugs, beer and wine and way too many other things to list here. The same miracle can be experienced at other stores where you can buy a huge variety of items you want or need.

Cost of special-ed services leans on local taxpayers

Along with recruitment and retention of qualified staff, funding is also an issue in special education, with more costs being covered by local taxes over time as opposed to state and federal dollars.

A lifetime of bad hair days

I routinely get Facebook posts from an entertainment website called “Grew Up in the ’70s and ’80s,” and had to laugh when it recently declared this observation about the telltale 1980s hairstyles most of us remember: “Hair so big it had its own ZIP code!”

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TODAY

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The next Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Thinking Thursday is 8:30 to 10 a.m., Feb. 21.

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TODAY

Supermajority bill is a solution in search of a problem

House Bill 148 would require a supermajority of the Montana Legislature to add a new tax or fee or increase an existing one. It passed the House 53-46 and is now in the Senate.

Letters to the editor Feb. 17

It’s Thanksgiving time. Imagine receiving notice that your job is being terminated and you’ll have to reapply for something else. Imagine you’re essentially a single parent for the past six months, caring for your small children, the house, the bills, etc. because your husband is deployed in Afghanistan. You have to Skype him for comfort, advice and encouragement.

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The Literacy Center of Northwest Montana is relaunching its annual fundraising event, Spellebration.

A.J. 'Jack' King, 90

Jack quietly passed away at home on Feb. 13, 2019.

Donna Marilyn O'Brien, 83

Donna Marilyn O’Brien, 83, of Iowa City, Iowa, died Monday, Feb. 11, 2019, at her home after a brief illness. The family is grateful for the assistance provided by Hospice Care during her final days, and to her special friends in Iowa City for their support in her later years.

Matthew Jon Fischer, 61

Matthew Jon Fischer, 61, of Kalispell, passed away Feb. 12, 2018.

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A table cluttered with bright feathers, sparkling thread and barbed hooks sets the stage for welcome relief to the military veterans gathered around for their weekly fly-tying lesson.

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The next Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Thinking Thursday is 8:30 to 10 a.m., Feb. 21.

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The Literacy Center of Northwest Montana is relaunching its annual fundraising event, Spellebration.

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A table cluttered with bright feathers, sparkling thread and barbed hooks sets the stage for welcome relief to the military veterans gathered around for their weekly fly-tying lesson.

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The next Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Thinking Thursday is 8:30 to 10 a.m., Feb. 21.

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The Literacy Center of Northwest Montana is relaunching its annual fundraising event, Spellebration.

Northwestern A Libby boys, girls 3rd at district tourney

WHITEFISH — Libby’s boys and girls both earned third-place finishes on Saturday at the Northwest A District basketball tournament at Whitefish High School by claiming victories in the consolation finals.

Basketball Roundup Braves beat Bengals, snap skid

The Flathead Braves (5-11 overall, 2-8 league) snapped an eight-game losing streak by taking down Helena High 65-58 at Flathead High School on Saturday afternoon in Western AA boys basketball action.

C-Falls, Browning district champs

WHITEFISH — Ryley Kehr scored the final seven points as Columbia Falls edged Browning 55-49 in a Northwest A District girls basketball championship thriller on Saturday night at Whitefish High School.

Friendly Fido has change of heart

A once cordial pooch turned on its neighbors, according to Flathead County Sheriff’s Office logs. The caller said the dog used to be friendly, but lately was tearing up packages left on the porch and was growling at her children.

Subject of ACLU suit against Lincoln County Sheriff's Office takes plea deal

A Eureka man who had sued the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office in October in claiming unlawful detainment, was given a suspended six-years sentence with the Montana Department of Corrections in Montana 19th Judicial District Court in Libby on Monday.

Clarence 'Mike' Calvin Chamberlain, 80

Clarence “Mike” Calvin Chamberlain, 80, passed away on Feb. 12, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Glacier, Whitefish students qualify for DECA conference

Thirty-three Glacier High School students qualified for the International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Florida, during Montana’s recent state DECA competition.

Kalispell man accused of beating spouse with broom

A Kalispell man is behind bars after his wife alleged he punched and beat her with a broom handle.

Researchers awarded NASA grant to track aquatic invaders

FLATHEAD LAKE – Stopping invasive species from destroying ecosystems and regional economies is among the world’s greatest challenges. Now, thanks to a grant from NASA, an investigative team of researchers at the University of Montana Flathead Lake Biological Station will launch a new project enabling officials to predict the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) through remote sensing, genetic monitoring and climate forecasting.

Jack King remembered for commitment to community banking

Kalispell native Albert John “Jack” King championed community banking during his long life and was a co-founder of both Valley Bank of Kalispell and what is now Three Rivers Bank of Montana.

Former Marion man sentenced in child-porn case

A man who admitted downloading child pornography to his cellphone was sentenced today to nine years in federal prison and 15 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

Glacier girls hand Helena first loss of season

HELENA – The Glacier Wolfpack girls basketball team dealt Helena High its first loss of the season on Friday, winning 34-31 in a tight Western AA clash.

District title time for Polson boys, C-Falls girls

WHITEFISH — Polson turned in a dominating performance to knock off second-seed Whitefish 57-40 on Friday night in semifinal play at the Northwest A District boys basketball tournament at Whitefish High School.

Northwest A District Tournament Browning girls, boys roll on

WHITEFISH – Libby held its own against No. 1 seed Browning, but the Lady Indians dominated the second quarter and fought off the Loggers for a 49-39 win in the semifinals of the Northwest A District girls basketball tournament on Friday at Whitefish High School.

Weekend update

Making Montana event

Pine Grove Pond founder Robin Street dies at 85

Flathead Valley community leader Robin Street, whose efforts created one of the most popular family fishing ponds in the region, died Thursday at age 85.

Man in serious need of vitamin D

A man was seen sprawled out on a snowbank along the highway, according to Kalispell Police Department logs. The caller didn’t know if there was something wrong with the man or if he was just soaking up some afternoon sunshine.

Climate advocate training offered

The Flathead Valley Chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby will hold a climate advocate training workshop from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, at ImagineIF Library in Kalispell.

Sperry Chalet's rebuild on track to continue

The prevailing phrase Wednesday night seemed to be “a once-in-a-lifetime project.”

Man jailed after Lakeside knife attack

A Flathead Valley man is in the county jail after he was accused of threatening two women with a knife at a Lakeside residence.

Bill to extend brewery hours tabled

The House Business and Labor Committee voted to table House Bill 185, the bill to extend brewery taproom hours to 10 p.m., during a meeting at the current session of the Montana Legislature on Feb. 8.

Chaney's double-double lifts Eureka over Florence

EUREKA — Cory Chaney scored 15 points and pulled down 16 rebounds to guide Eureka to a 47-37 Western B boys basketball victory Thursday evening over Florence.

Polson boys top C-Falls in opener

WHITEFISH — A quick start helped Polson beat Columbia Falls 58-49 in first-round action Thursday evening at the Northwest A District boys basketball tournament at Whitefish High School.

Northwest A District Libby boys, girls move to semis

WHITEFISH — Ryggs Johnston scored 32 points to help Libby prevail over Ronan 60-52 in the first round of the Northwest A District boys basketball tournament on Thursday at Whitefish High School.

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- Manufacturing Technology Expo, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Flathead County Fairgrounds. Meet local manufacturers offer hands-on experiences.

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- Manufacturing Technology Expo, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Flathead County Fairgrounds. Meet local manufacturers offer hands-on experiences.

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- Manufacturing Technology Expo, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Flathead County Fairgrounds. Meet local manufacturers offer hands-on experiences.

Home-school student wins county spelling bee

Kyra Hutchison, an eighth-grader with the Flathead Valley Home Educators Association, won the Flathead County Spelling Bee on Thursday by correctly spelling the word “cynical.”

Suspect held in Coram homicide

An early morning shooting Thursday in Coram led to the death of a 54-year-old man and the arrest soon after of a 19-year-old man.

New local books

‘A Trilogy of Contemplative Christian Devotionals’

Take a trip before winter wanes

What a difference a couple weeks make!

Sunburst's concert finale features Celtic duo

The fifth and final concert of Sunburst Community Service Foundation’s 20th annual performing arts series features the duo Men of Worth at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 15, at the Lincoln County High School auditorium in Eureka. Tickets are $12 per adult. Students 18 years and younger and individuals 90 or over admitted for free. Tickets are available by contacting Sunburst at 406-297-0197 or email mtsunburst@yahoo.com

FHS Theatre puts '80s twist on 'Musketeers'

“All for one, and one for all!”

'Packed with Love' concert benefits snack program

The Flathead School Snack Program is hosting an evening featuring world-renowned Wai Mizutani and Friends, Friday, Feb. 15, in Conference Hall 139, of the Arts and Technology Building at Flathead Valley Community College.

Bigfork Children's Theatre sets auditions for 'The Addams Family'

Auditions for “The Addams Family” will be held Monday, Feb. 18, (Presidents Day) at the Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre Afterschool Center, 833 Grand Drive. Auditions will be from 4:30 to 6 p.m. for fifth- and sixth-graders and from 6 to 8 p.m. for seventh- and 12th-graders.

'Mamma Mia' musical set to timeless ABBA songs

Put on your dancing shoes and best ’80s fashion for the Whitefish Theatre Co.’s sensational production of “Mamma Mia!” at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. Called “the sunniest of all musicals,” this entertaining show is based on the hits of pop group ABBA.

Valentine's celebrations run through the weekend

The Flathead Valley abounds with Valentine’s Day celebrations, song and dance. Here’s a roundup of events to treat yourself and your valentine to this weekend.

Man fatally shot in Coram, 19-year-old charged with deliberate homicide

A 19-year-old man is in custody after a fatal shooting in Coram early this morning.

Whitefish Police alert public to phone scam

The Whitefish Police Department wants to alert police to a phone scam is being perpetrated in the Flathead Valley.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Whitefish Credit Union, Kalispell.

Julie Fredenberg Goulet, 56

Julie passed away on Feb. 9, 2019, following an exhausting, hard struggle with lung cancer and brain cancer.

Study: Coverage could decline with Medicaid work requirement

A new analysis released Wednesday estimates 26,000 to 36,000 low-income Montanans could lose health coverage if state lawmakers decide to pass a bill that would require Medicaid enrollees ages 19 to 59 to work 80 hours per month in order to receive benefits.

Roomie relationship folds over corn tortillas

A U.S. 93 resident in Kalispell reportedly wanted Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to assist in removing a woman from his house, where she had been living for a couple of months, because she was “making him mad.” The fight was reportedly over corn tortillas and her “taking things out of the freezer.” The man reportedly said he had a temper and she has been “pushing his buttons,” so she needed to leave before he did “something he shouldn’t.” The parties were calm and agreed to get along for the night.

ATV track proposed in Stillwater Forest

A request to develop an all-terrain vehicle track and camping area on state forestland just north of the Olney green-box garbage collection site has been submitted to the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

David William Jones, 70

David William Jones, 70, passed away on Friday, Feb. 8, 2019, at his home in Bigfork.

Landon James Davis, 12

Landon James Davis, 12, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019, in Kalispell.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Whitefish Credit Union, Kalispell.

Love letters Military couples go the distance to stay connected during deployments

On the back of a military ready-to-eat meal marked “corned beef hash,” a U.S. Marine stationed overseas in late 1980s began a letter to his wife back home: “How do you like my stationary?”

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Whitefish Credit Union, Kalispell.

Unusual ice disc spotted in Stillwater River

While some may not care for the latest blast of winter weather in the Flathead, it did result in a natural oddity that several passersby discovered in Kalispell this week.

Flathead, Glacier students qualify for nationals

Fourteen local high school speech and debate students have qualified to compete at nationals.

Paul Melvin Gerald Gardner, 86

Paul Melvin Gerald Gardner, 86, passed away on Monday, Feb. 4, 2019, at his home in Rexford.

Economist: Innovation needed in affordable housing

With a focus on the challenges of affordable housing, Montana’s Economic Outlook Summit statewide tour stopped at the Hilton Inn in Kalispell on Tuesday.

Groups threaten to sue over new forest plan

Two regionally based conservation groups allege the Flathead National Forest has abandoned key protections for grizzly bears and bull trout and the organizations say they’re prepared, as a result, to sue two federal agencies.

Neighbor greets man with alleged head butt

A Redfield Lane resident in Lakeside likely was bowled over by a reported assault and told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office he was pulling into his driveway and rolled the window down when a man approached the vehicle and head-butted him, causing his nose to bleed. A citation for assault was issued.

Find the Blacktail Gnome during Ski Patrol fundraiser

The annual Blacktail Mountain Ski Patrol fundraiser will take place Presidents Day, Monday, Feb. 18, featuring a fun-filled day of games, food, costumes and raffle prizes.

Flathead man accused in frying pan assault

A Flathead Valley man was arrested recently after authorities said he struck another man in the head with a frying pan during an incident in Evergreen.

Bigfork girls hang on to edge Anaconda, 48-47

BIGFORK — Izzy Santistevan scored a team-high 19 points and Rakiah Grende turned in a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds to help Bigfork hold off Anaconda 48-47 on Tuesday in Western B girls basketball play.

Daines says border visit cements his barrier beliefs

U.S. Sen. Steve Daines witnessed firsthand early Monday along the Rio Grande in Texas the separate apprehensions of two men, both from Honduras, who had crossed the border illegally.

Neighborly gesture not appreciated

A Columbia Falls resident was upset that a neighbor was plowing his driveway. He reportedly told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office the neighbor was a methamphetamine user and didn’t want them anywhere near the property and noted they had been warned about trespassing before.

Powell helped shape Whitefish Mountain Resort over four decades

Chester “Chet” Powell Jr. dropped out of college in 1975 and became what used to be called a ski bum.

Board tables updated trails plan

Speaker after speaker emphasized Monday morning that moving the updated trails plan forward would not obligate Flathead County to spend anything to build or maintain new trails.

Libby man sentenced for illegal gun possession

Libby resident Joshua David Hoffman was sentenced Friday to eight months in prison and three years of supervised release for illegally possessing three firearms, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

C-Falls growth policy meeting tonight

The Columbia Falls Planning Board will hold its third public workshop tonight as it continues the process of updating the Columbia Falls growth policy.

Neighbors in Need plans Valentine's fundraiser

Enjoy a homemade spaghetti luncheon while supporting Neighbors in Need on Valentine’s Day, Thursday.

Barry M. Fisher 65

Barry M. Fisher 65, of Bigfork died Feb. 5, 2019, in Kalispell.

Major lakeshore variance sought for Bigfork beach

A request for a major variance to the Flathead County Lake and Lakeshore Protection Regulations tops a full agenda for the Flathead County Planning Board’s Wednesday meeting.

Apartments planned near Gateway Community Center

A conditional-use permit request for a 120-unit apartment complex north of Gateway Community Center will be considered during a public hearing at tonight’s Kalispell Planning Board meeting.

Upcoming Making Montana event taps into innovation

Makers young and old from across the state will gather to showcase their skills in a variety of industries for the 2019 Making Montana innovation fair Friday and Saturday, Feb. 15-16.

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

Cold weather drives man to steal antifreeze

Kalispell Police Department received a report of a man who reportedly grabbed two jugs of antifreeze and took off without paying.

Hospital CEOs join discussion on Medicaid Expansion

This week at the state capitol the Joint Select Committee on Healthcare met with some hospital CEOs to discuss Medicaid and Medicaid Expansion. Our thanks to the CEOs from St. Peter’s in Helena, St. James in Butte and the for-profit Community Medical Center in Missoula for attendance at this important meeting. Six of the CEOs from the largest hospitals had “prior commitments.” There has been some talk in having another meeting so all of them could be in attendance. Stay tuned.

Blacksmith offers self-reliance skills in New Agrarian School workshops

At an age where many of his friends are retiring, blacksmith Jeffrey Funk is opening a school.

Letters to the editor Feb. 11

I hope that your newspaper will advises your community to bring their pets INSIDE when the temperatures fall as far DOWN as they have been falling lately. Why return the cat, Fluffy, to its clearly irresponsible “owners” without seriously reprimanding them? My suggestion: Make the owners spend a freezing night or two in a snowdrift…

Made-in-Montana Medicaid program

What do rural hospitals, small businesses, and 1 in 10 Montanans have in common?

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

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

Births KRMC November-December

Ethan J. Meester, son of David and Emily Meester of Bigfork, was born Nov. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Pedestrian killed in Canyon collision

A pedestrian who died after being struck by a vehicle Saturday night on U.S. 2 near Coram has been identified as Derek Perez, 29, of Columbia Falls.

Tea for two, and you and you and you

A woman told a dispatcher that Whitefish Police officers could use her circular driveway if they needed it for the winter carnival. She said tea and snacks were also available.

Laurie P. Reedy, 70

Laurie P. Reedy, 70, died Wednesday, February 6, 2019, at Health Center Northwest.

Christina May Haskell, 63

Christina May Haskell (Chrissy) received her wings for heaven on February 6, 2019.

Walter Herbert Rufenach, 89

Walter Herbert Rufenach, 89, passed away at his home in Columbia Falls on Feb. 5, 2019.

Helen Marie Waggoner, 89

Helen Marie Waggoner, 89, passed on Feb. 6, 2019, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish. She had been looking forward to the day she could reunite with her husband, George, and the many dear friends and relatives that have been waiting patiently on the other side for her.

Gwendolyn Mae Anderson, 96

Gwendolyn Mae Anderson went home to be with the Lord Jan. 23, 2019, at the age of 96.

Mary L. Putnam, 86

Mary L. Putnam, 86, of Whitefish, passed away peacefully at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Feb. 3, 2019.

Linda Lou Ames, 63

Linda Lou Ames passed away in her home in Salem, Oregon, on Jan. 20, 2019, after a brief, brave battle with cancer.

Scot 'Zim' Zimmerman, 64

Scot “Zim” Zimmerman, born Sept. 15, 1954, a resident of Columbia Falls, passed away Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019, after battling cancer.

Payback time for love letter from long ago

Back in the day, if a couple living in different towns wanted to communicate with one another it was either by long-distance telephone or letters. Long distance was quite expensive back then and mostly reserved for emergencies or big news.

Plans in the works to widen Montana 40

The Montana Department of Transportation plans to widen a segment of Montana 40 near Whitefish.

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- Annual Cabin Fever Days, Martin City. Bar stool races, snowshoe softball, shuffleboard, kids’ activities, live music and more. $5 entry button required.

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- Annual Cabin Fever Days, Martin City. Bar stool races, snowshoe softball, shuffleboard, kids’ activities, live music and more. $5 entry button required.

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- Annual Cabin Fever Days, Martin City. Bar stool races, snowshoe softball, shuffleboard, kids’ activities, live music and more. $5 entry button required.

Mismanagement alleged throughout state system

Montana’s Child and Family Services Division is tasked with safeguarding the wellbeing of some of the society’s most vulnerable citizens, but in recent months the agency has been criticized by sources who claim longstanding mismanagement has fostered a broken system.

Valley digs out from Arctic blast

Northwest Montana was hunkered down Saturday as another push of Arctic air brought sub-zero temperatures and dangerous wind chills to the region.

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The Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana will bring its 44th annual Economic Outlook Seminar series to Kalispell on Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the Hilton Garden Inn from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Evergreen should be focus of next highway project

Kudos to our local representatives, friends, mayor, county commissions, state and federal representatives’ planners and engineers, in a Herculean effort to get our bypass in place. It has served its purpose well. I have used it on a regular basis myself, and I am more than pleased of what a convenience and time-saver it is.

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The Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana will bring its 44th annual Economic Outlook Seminar series to Kalispell on Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the Hilton Garden Inn from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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The Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana will bring its 44th annual Economic Outlook Seminar series to Kalispell on Tuesday, Feb. 12, at the Hilton Garden Inn from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Modest Evergreen Fire levy worthy of your vote

It was just 10 months ago that Evergreen Fire District voters soundly rejected a levy request to fund Evergreen Fire and Rescue’s growing needs. Next month, ballots for a revised proposal will be sent out and we strongly encourage voters to support this more modest request.

'It's a young, new brand' Urban Bricks plans grand opening Feb. 16

Urban Bricks, Kalispell’s newest food franchise, will hold its grand-opening celebration on Saturday, Feb. 16.

Evergreen levy deserves support

In May of 2015, I was the beneficiary of the Evergreen EMS services because of a heart attack I endured while cutting grass. This scenario could happen to anyone at any time, which is why the Evergreen community chose to pursue funding 24/7/365 Fire and EMS services after construction of the new station in 2009. The funding of Fire and EMS services continued, in 2014, when voters approved the continuation of the 2004 10-year expiring levy. The 2014 five-year levy expires in July; a new levy is required to continue to provide Evergreen with adequate Fire and EMS services.

Wolf paranoia being stirred up once again

In the Feb. 2 Inter Lake, “Wolves still a hot-button issue,” we see that those with an irrational, fact-free hatred of wolves are at it again, just as they were a decade ago. Unfortunately, the anti-wolf paranoia is once again being stirred up by some in the hunting community, long a pillar of American conservation, but here engaging in flights of pure fantasy.

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Kalispell Parks and Recreation is hosting its annual Valentine’s Day Dance Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Linderman Education Center gym. Enjoy food, drinks, music with deejay Mike Hammer, games, prizes, sweets, a photo wall and more.

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Kalispell Parks and Recreation is hosting its annual Valentine’s Day Dance Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Linderman Education Center gym. Enjoy food, drinks, music with deejay Mike Hammer, games, prizes, sweets, a photo wall and more.

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Kalispell Parks and Recreation is hosting its annual Valentine’s Day Dance Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Linderman Education Center gym. Enjoy food, drinks, music with deejay Mike Hammer, games, prizes, sweets, a photo wall and more.

Metal mania Local bands part of a thriving 'DIY' music scene

Kalispell’s Anthony Barnes celebrated his 30th birthday by driving to Denver to see the deathcore band Whitechapel.

Software company aims to help Montana firms grow

Kalispell-based software development company ExcelliMatrix wants Montana businesses to have access to the same technology advantages and tools enjoyed by those in the biggest metropolitan areas.

Whitefish girls state swim champs

BOZEMAN — Ada Qunell, Preston Ring and Annie Sullivan were all double winners for Whitefish on the final day of the Class A/B state swim meet on Saturday at the Bozeman Swim Center.

Basketball Libby boys slip past Polson, 48-42

LIBBY — The Loggers won a tight Northwest A boys basketball contest against the Polson Pirates on Saturday, 48-42 with three players scoring in double digits.

Fritsch, Gladeau, Smith state mat champs

The Daily Inter Lake

C-Falls edges Browning

COLUMBIA FALLS — Ryley Kehr nailed the game-winning 3-pointer, Trista Cowan scored 21 points and Columbia Falls squeaked by Browning 57-55 in a Northwest A girls basketball barnburner on Saturday at Columbia Falls High School.

PHOTOS: Lady Wildkats down Browning in thriller, 57-55

Photos from Columbia Falls Lady Wildkats’ 57-55 win over Browning at Columbia Falls High School on Saturday.

PHOTOS: Barstool Ski Races at Cabin Fever Days

Photos from the Barstool Ski Races at Cabin Fever Days in Martin City on Saturday. Qualifying runs continue at 1 p.m. on Sunday with the finals starting at 3 p.m.

Jim G. Manning, 71

Jim G. Manning, 71, of Helena, passed away on Jan. 12, 2019, surrounded by family during his final days.

Students pick their favorite poems for regional competition

Thirteen high school students breathed life into the words penned by notable poets through the centuries at a Poetry Out Loud regional competition held Thursday at Flathead Valley Community College.

Whitefish woman accused of stealing thousands in jewelry

A Whitefish woman is being held in the Flathead County Jail on charges she allegedly stole tens of thousands of dollars in jewelry.

Linda Lou Ames, 63

Linda Lou Ames passed away in her home in Salem, Oregon, on Jan. 20, 2019, after a brief, brave battle with cancer.

Equity initiative aims to include diverse mix of students

Flathead High School is looking to cast a wider net over students of diverse backgrounds to enter the International Baccalaureate program.

Why did rooster engage in fowl play?

A woman called the Kalispell Police Department about a rooster that was running down the middle of the street and causing a traffic hazard. She said a number of people had tried to catch it before it found refuge under her car. About 10 minutes later, the foul fowl had been apprehended by another person driving an orange Hyundai Santa Fe.

Dwight Diller, 49

On Feb. 2, 2019, Dwight Diller went home to be with the Lord. He spent the last several years living in Bigfork, surrounded by the mountains he loved to explore.

Kalispell lawmaker pushes for country-of-origin labeling

State Sen. Al Olszewski, R- Kalispell introduced a bill this week that would require country-of-origin placarding for beef and pork at retail stores in Montana.

Nelson's Hardware ready to move to new store

Nelson’s Ace Hardware in Whitefish is expanding in every department when it relocates from its longtime Central Avenue location to a building currently in the final stages of construction on U.S. 93 S.

C-Falls, Eureka start strong at state

BILLINGS — Columbia Falls and Eureka both had a strong opening day at the all-class state wrestling tournament on Friday at MetraPark.

Eureka woman wins $17,500 lottery jackpot

HELENA - Debra Parrish is no stranger to the Montana Lottery. The Eureka woman has been playing for 30 years.

Linda Lou Ames, 63

Linda Lou Ames passed away in her home in Salem, Oregon, on Jan. 20, 2019, after a brief, brave battle with cancer.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Finance and Operations Committee meets 7 a.m., district basement meeting room.

New forest plan reflects economic, ecological changes

The passage of 30 years likely means little to a towering red cedar or an ancient larch.

Hospitals agree to help fund Medicaid expansion

HELENA — Montana hospitals have agreed to pay a fee to help fund Medicaid expansion as the state’s share of the cost of the health care coverage increases, an official with the Montana Hospital Association said Thursday.

Marion school-bus conversation is concerning

A school employee in Marion told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office about receiving information from a parent that two students allegedly made comments on the bus where one boy talked about plans to shoot up the school, and the other boy, on how they were going to get the guns.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Finance and Operations Committee meets 7 a.m., district basement meeting room.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Finance and Operations Committee meets 7 a.m., district basement meeting room.

Bonnie Dot Penner, 81

Bonnie Dot Penner, 81, of Bigfork, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019.

Kalispell art museum crosses half-century mark

Montanan in purpose, style, history and name, the Hockaday Museum of Art represents the people, culture and landscapes of the Treasure State through the art and artists it has displayed since its beginning 50 years ago.

Swimmers finish in Bozeman

Flathead Valley swimmers are in Bozeman this weekend for the Class AA and A state meet.

Charges withdrawn by nurses association

Charges filed by the Montana Nurses Association on Dec. 5 against Kalispell Regional Healthcare alleging the hospital had violated federal rights after the hospital announced an “employee restructuring” have been withdrawn, according to hospital officials.

Remembering fishing milestones over the years

I marvel daily when I think back on milestones or markers in my life, and how long it has been since something began, ended or lasted. Take, for example, my tenure with writing this column for the Daily Inter Lake.

With February, comes winter

Montana residents who really don’t engage in winter sports have been enjoying the mild winter weather, while those of us who relish the snow and cold have been quite disappointed so far. Especially for ice anglers, the slow pace of ice growth on local lakes has been agonizingly frustrating, but it appears that, as we enter February, we may finally be making up for the lost “ground.”

Veterinarians revive cat that nearly froze in Kalispell

KALISPELL (AP) — Veterinarians in Montana revived a cat named Fluffy that nearly froze to death after being found in a snowbank covered from head to tail in ice and snow.

Another blizzard blast on the way

Get ready for round two.

Whitefish Shopko store to close in May

Shopko Hometown in Whitefish will close May 12, the company said this week as it announced plans to close nearly 70 percent of Shopko stores in the coming months as it attempts to reorganize and emerge from bankruptcy.

More work scheduled for Glacier's Sun Road Access to Logan Pass will not open before June 21

Glacier National Park’s continued road improvement projects will resume later this year, closing the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road for about two weeks in September.

Former Blackfeet chair pleads not guilty to theft, wire fraud

Former Blackfeet Tribal Chairman Willie Andrew Sharp, who is accused of stealing federal money from the Head Start Program, pleaded not guilty in federal court Tuesday to charges in an indictment.

Barbara Myhre, 81

Barbara Myhre, 81, of Manhattan, Kansas, died Feb. 4, 2019, at Meadowlark Hills Stolzer House.

MaDonna Jean Barber, 80

MaDonna Jean Barber, 80, of Yellow Bay on Flathead Lake, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019, at the Montana Veterans Home Special Care Unit.

Irene J. Muir, 101

Irene J. Muir passed away peacefully on the eve of her 102nd birthday, Saturday, Feb. 2, 2019.

Officers apprehend male who made social media threats

Local law enforecment officials on Wednesday were alerted to vague social media threats made toward an unspecified school and other generic locations. The subject was identified though the social media posts, a Kalispell Police Department press release said. Kalispell officers and the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deployed resources to local area schools and the subject’s residence in an effort to locate him. The subject was quickly located at a Kalispell business, where he was taken into custody and transported for a mental-health evaluation.

Weekly events Feb. 7-14

THURSDAY, FEB. 7

FVCC Theatre presents 'Noises Off'

Flathead Valley Community College Theatre Department’s production of Michael Frayn’s “Noises Off” will warm the chilliest of winter nights and have audiences in stitches when it opens Thursday, Feb. 14, in the campus theater of the Arts and Technology Building.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Applied Materials.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Applied Materials.

Blacktail ski area offers apres ski live music

Blacktail Mountain Ski Area brings music to the mountain every Friday with its Mountain Top Music Series.

Letters to the editor Feb. 7

During this winter’s frigid temperatures, many help the homeless via hands-on activities or donating to charities. But we have broader reaching and more farsighted options of forestalling homelessness by improving access to housing for low income citizens as well as those living below the poverty line.

Whitefish Theatre Co. auditions for 'Alice in Wonderland'

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for a spring production of “Alice In Wonderland,” a family production that will be performed in April.

Lakeside QRU hires director, adds auxiliary

Response to medical emergencies in the Lakeside and Somers communities has rested on the shoulders of local volunteers for nearly 40 years.

Bills address looming doctor shortage

Two bipartisan bills introduced by Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., to Congress last week aim to address the nation’s shortage of doctors in rural areas by tackling issues of residency, or the time an aspiring physician spends training at a hospital after finishing medical school.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Applied Materials.

Glacier Symphony presents 'Scheherazade' and Chopin concerto

Continue your Valentine’s Day experience with the Glacier Symphony’s “Romancing the Soul” concert Sunday, Feb. 17. The symphony, under the direction of conductor John Zoltek, will offer “Scheherazade,” the dynamic and colorful orchestral suite by Russian composer and master of orchestration, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. Considered to be one of the most popular showpieces of classical music, the gorgeous melodies, exotic orchestral colors and vibrant rhythms transport you to the imaginary world of “One Thousand and One Nights” upon which the musical work was inspired.

Braves, Wolfpack grapplers primed for state

By DAVID LESNICK

Ronan sweeps Whitefish in Northwest A basketball

RONAN – The Ronan Chiefs defeated the Whitefish Bulldogs 66-64 in overtime on Tuesday in a thrilling Northwest A boys basketball matchup.

Montana's quintessential country rock band reunites to support ski patrol

On any given day during ski season, more than likely Steve Riddle, one of the original members of the Mission Mountain Wood Band, is up on Big Mountain carving turns.

Glacier's 2018 visitation second busiest

In 2018 Glacier National Park notched its second busiest year of visitation since the park’s founding in 1910.

County trails plan ready for final vote

The Flathead County Parks and Recreation Board is set to vote Monday on a revised county trails plan that sets out a vision for a regional multi-use trail network. After a year and a half of work, it’s time to finally send this document to the commissioners for final approval.

Locking the door may have been helpful

Someone called the Kalispell Police Department after their home had been entered by an unknown person who trashed it and stole items. The caller claimed to have been gone from the residence for less than one-half hour, but hadn’t locked the door.

Albert 'Walter' Ayers Jr., 84

Albert “Walter” Ayers Jr. passed away on Jan. 27, 2019, due to pneumonia complications after a long battle with dementia.

Two Bear Air founder honored by Whitefish Chamber

Community supporters, volunteers and businesses were honored Thursday night during the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards ceremony at the O’Shaughnessy Center.

Man facing extradition for felony charge in Washington

A man in Flathead County Jail is awaiting extradition back to Washington state after officials there allege he left his mother, who is suffering from dementia, in a senior-living home without paying for her care.

Lawmakers grapple over future of coal industry

HELENA — The state of Montana’s coal industry is in flux.

August 'Chris' Christensen, 70

On Friday Feb. 1, 2019, August “Chris” Christensen, 70, received his angel wings at his home in West Valley.

Duane Allen Battes, 77

Duane was 77 years young when he passed away, after a hard-fought battle with cancer, on Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2019, at 3 p.m. He passed away peacefully at home in Kalispell surrounded by his family.

Shake off winter doldrums at Cabin Fever Days

Sick of winter? Don’t despair. The 41st annual Cabin Fever Days and world famous bar stool races are scheduled for Friday through Sunday, hosted by the Trapline Association.

Caroline Virginia Felton Morton, 90

Caroline Virginia Felton Morton passed away at home on Jan. 29, 2019.

Libby girls, boys top Eureka in basketball

LIBBY — Libby rolled by Eureka with a big second half for a 43-28 nonconference girls basketball victory on Tuesday evening.

Glacier girls dump Flathead

When the Glacier Wolfpack and Flathead Bravettes last met for a crosstown basketball game, Glacier’s Ellie Keller sank six free throws late in the fourth quarter to seal the win.

Wolfpack outlasts Braves for sweep

By COLIN GAISER

PHOTOS: Glacier boys, girls sweep crosstown

Photos from Glacier vs. Flathead in crosstown Class AA high school basketball held at Flathead High School on Tuesday.

Special Olympics Montana names new president

The Special Olympics Montana Board of Directors last week named Rhonda McCarty as the organization’s new president and chief executive officer. McCarty assumes her new role July 1.

Holmquist elected Egan Slough committee vice chair

A decision by the Flathead County Commissioners on Monday to elect Commissioner Pam Holmquist the vice chairperson of the Egan Slough Planning and Zoning Committee perturbed residents who believe the position should be held by a resident of the zoning district east of Kalispell.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5:30 p.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, Bigfork.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5:30 p.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, Bigfork.

Flathead County GIS offers online trails map

A new comprehensive and interactive Online Trails Map is now available through the office of Flathead County Geographic Information Systems.

Aud Waage-Biederstedt, 82

Aud Waage-Biederstedt, 82, of Fresno, Texas, passed away on Jan. 28, 2019, in Texas.

FVCC program simulates real-life accident scenes for students

Doug Petch dispatched his students to a car accident last Thursday morning.

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- Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5:30 p.m., Bethany Lutheran Church, Bigfork.

Funny brownie no laughing matter

A parent told Kalispell Police that someone allegedly gave their daughter a brownie with “something in it” at a party. The teen reportedly went to the emergency room because of the brownie. She told her parents the father of the person hosting the party gave her the treat.

Kalispell man scores $150K scratch ticket

HELENA — The Montana Lottery has awarded $195,568 in cash prizes since Jan. 17, warding prizes to winners all around the state.

Arctic front ushers in dangerous wind chills

The morning commute in Northwest Montana was downright frightful Monday as a powerful push of Arctic air whipped up blizzard conditions and frigid temperatures.

Trump taps former oil lobbyist to lead Interior

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump is nominating David Bernhardt to be secretary of the Interior Department, a move that puts a former oil lobbyist on track to take over the agency.

Extra patrol for suspicious stalking hawk

Someone supposedly requested extra patrol from Kalispell Police Department because they thought a hawk sitting on a light pole was stalking a kid and a dog. It was unknown if the hawk was hurt, but “looked suspicious.” The person said they would contact Fish and Game. Police were unable to locate the suspicious hawk.

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

Eagle Valley Ranch hearing tonight

The proposed Eagle Valley Ranch mixed-use project on U.S. 93 North will be the focus of a public hearing at tonight’s Kalispell City Council meeting.

Whitefish woman discovers competitive side in skijoring

For Minnesota native Jennifer Butler, it took a few friends, a fast horse and 45 years before she found out she had a competitive side.

Sperry Chalet open house set for Feb. 13

The National Park Service, in partnership with Glacier National Park Conservancy, will host an evening about Sperry Chalet on Wednesday, Feb. 13 at the Red Lion Hotel in Kalispell.

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

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

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Jasper William Isles, son of John and Christy Isles of Kalispell, was born Nov. 19 at North Valley Hospital.

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Jasper William Isles, son of John and Christy Isles of Kalispell, was born Nov. 19 at North Valley Hospital.

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Jasper William Isles, son of John and Christy Isles of Kalispell, was born Nov. 19 at North Valley Hospital.

Downtown parking perceptions and misconceptions

Perception isn’t always reality, and in the case of parking in downtown Kalispell, sometimes the truth lies only a block or two away.

Letters to the editor Feb. 3

Now that the latest budget crisis has been temporarily resolved, it is time for all our congressional representatives to stop placing our government, our federal employees and contractors, and our republic in such a ridiculous situation again. This means that you and your colleagues must develop and pass a complete budget for the operation of the government on time each and every year. This is one of the few specific constitutionally mandated duties for the Congress and it has been woefully neglected for far too long. It is completely and fundamentally irresponsible of the peoples’ elected representatives to ignore this crucial responsibility any longer. Employing the facile devices of manipulating the fiscal year and continuing resolutions to fund and operate the most powerful nation in the world, the country that the rest of the world looks to for leadership and solutions, is shameful. Please lead the way and get our Congress back on track to fiscal and constitutional responsibility so we never experience another shutdown and retreat from the existential threat presented by our national indebtedness.

Montana left footing the bill for real environmental stewardship

Under President Trump we have seen a sudden resurgence of federalism on the left in American politics as liberal states like California seek to go their own way on issues like the Paris Climate Accord and sanctuary cities. But sometimes these states’ attempt to set policy within their own borders has a very real negative impact on neighboring states.

Public Education Center should support student-safety bill

This week, the Montana Public Education Center sent a representative to the Montana Senate Education Committee to oppose student safety legislation which has received bipartisan support. The specific bill is Senate Bill 132, the Student Safety Accountability Act, which the Office of Public Instruction requested, and Sen. Keith Regier, R-Kalispell, is carrying.

Water craziness in the Flathead

The Bullock administration and Montana legislators have one more chance to protect the waters of the Flathead Basin and ensure their availability for future generations. In regard to both aquatic invasive species (AIS) and the water compact with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), wise and workable solutions are at hand. Unfortunately, key Democrats are fouling the AIS fight, while some Republicans are trying to sabotage the water agreement.

'Death cleaning' or more stuff? It's a tough choice

Here’s my dilemma: every time I think about downsizing I am bombarded with information about new products, some of which seem too good to pass up. Then, like the dog whose attention is diverted to chasing the nearest cat, I’m off and running, poring over the details of the latest innovative products that will make my life easier, better and way cooler.

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The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation hosts the 34th annual Flathead Valley Chapter fundraiser banquet and auction Feb. 16 in the Trade Center at Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell.

Recreation board to discuss revised trails plan

Flathead County residents love and use trails. They hike and bike and run. At least that’s what surveys suggest.

Elmore and Greskowiak engaged

Karen Elmore of Polson and Allen Greskowiak of Kalispell announce their engagement.

R. Dick Mitsch, 77

R. Dick Mitsch was born on Dec. 6, 1941, to Nellie and Adolph Mitsch.

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- Whitefish Winter Carnival Rotary pancake breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon, Whitefish Moose Lodge, 230 W. 10th St.

Study reveals no need for Kalispell parking garage

A parking structure may be on the wish list of the new Kalispell Downtown Urban Renewal Plan, but Senior Planner Jarod Nygren said there is currently no justification for a parking garage.

Brandon Heath Nelson, 38

On Monday Jan. 28, 2019, Brandon left us suddenly and all too soon after a vehicle accident in Bigfork. His beloved blue heeler/border collie mix Sheba and her young puppy Rojo followed him over the Rainbow Bridge.

Shoplifter narrowly escapes police dragnet

A store manager said a female shoplifter had escaped with a coat in a black pickup with a topper. A check of the license plate indicated it was inactive and belonged on a gray Subaru. Despite a quick response by Kalispell Police Department officers, the driver slipped away.

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The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation hosts the 34th annual Flathead Valley Chapter fundraiser banquet and auction Feb. 16 in the Trade Center at Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell.

'A fix-it attitude' Boots and saddles and getting to 'yes'

Don Thompson lies awake some nights pondering how to fix an item dropped off by a hoping-for-a-miracle customer.

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The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation hosts the 34th annual Flathead Valley Chapter fundraiser banquet and auction Feb. 16 in the Trade Center at Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell.

New adult community aims at active aging

Developer Curt Lund is creating a residential community in Evergreen aimed at solving many common dilemmas of aging.

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- Whitefish Winter Carnival Rotary pancake breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon, Whitefish Moose Lodge, 230 W. 10th St.

No headline

- Whitefish Winter Carnival Rotary pancake breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon, Whitefish Moose Lodge, 230 W. 10th St.

Albert 'Walter' Ayers Jr., 84

Albert “Walter” Ayers Jr. passed away on Jan. 27, 2019, due to pneumonia complications after a long battle with dementia.

Bigfork sweeps Troy in 7B basketball

TROY — Anders Epperly scored a season-high 24 points as the Bigfork Vikings (12-2) routed Troy 75-15 in District 7B boys play on Saturday.

Eureka wins 5th straight B-C divisional mat title

THOMPSON FALLS — Make that five in a row for Eureka.

Polson wrestlers nip Frenchtown; claim Western A

BUTTE — Polson, led by three finalists — Bridger Wenzel (152), Hunter Fritsch (170) and Rene Pierre (113) — captured the team title on Saturday by the slimmest of margins over defending champion Frenchtown at the Western A divisional wrestling tournament.

AA: Flathead qualifies 22 for state; Glacier 17

MISSOULA — Flathead qualified 22 wrestlers for the upcoming state tournament and Glacier totaled 17 at the conclusion of the Western AA seeding tournament at Missoula Big Sky on Saturday.

Glacier bows to Knights

By COLIN GAISER

Whitefish lawmaker sponsors bill to extend brewery hours

A measure to extend brewery hours failed in the 2017 Montana Legislature, but Rep. Dave Fern, D-Whitefish, is putting the idea back in front of lawmakers this session.

PHOTOS: Whitefish Winter Carnival Grand Parade

Whitefish Winter Carnival’s 2019 Grand Parade on Saturday in downtown Whitefish. The theme was Whitefish Woodstock.

PHOTOS: Whitefish Winter Carnival Penguin Plunge 2019

Photos from the Whitefish Winter Carnival Penguin Plunge 2019 held at City Beach in Whitefish on Saturday.

Avalanche victim describes life-threatening ordeal

Marty Mann’s friends expected to find his broken, lifeless body hundreds of feet below the summit of Spring Slide Mountain.

CASA accepting applications for advocates

CASA for Kids is hosting an informational meeting at noon Thursday, Feb. 5, to learn how to become an advocate for a child in foster care. The meeting will be held at the CASA for Kids office at the Gateway Community Center, 1203 U.S. 2 W., Suite 37, in Kalispell.

Misery loves company for freed man

A man who had been jailed called the Columbia Falls Police Department to report a theft from his vehicle while he was behind bars. He said he knew some of the items were at someone’s trailer. He didn’t want to press charges but he wanted to get his stuff back.

Wolves still a hot-button issue at local meeting

Emotions were strong as hundreds of hunters and trappers from Northwest Montana made their feelings known about wolves in the region at a gathering Wednesday at the Red Lion in Kalispell.

Backcountry Film Fest shows Tuesday in Whitefish

Montana Wilderness Association and the Winter Wildlands Alliance are hosting the 14th annual Backcountry Film Festival Tuesday, Feb. 5, at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and films start at 7 p.m.

Lois Robbe Stroud, 91

Lois Robbe Stroud of Columbia Falls, (formerly of Eureka) died peacefully on Jan. 22, 2019, at Beehive Assisted Living where she had resided since September 2010.

PR firm hired to push high-school levy request

Kalispell Public Schools has contracted with Aspen Communications to assist with community outreach to inform the public about a proposed

Corvallis clips Dogs by 9

WHITEFISH — The Whitefish Lady Bulldogs could not rally after falling behind early, losing to Corvallis 49-40 in Class A girls basketball action on Friday at Whitefish High School.

Class A, B Divisional time for wrestlers

By DAVID LESNICK

Winter blast expected to hit over weekend

A high-impact winter storm is expected to hit Northwest Montana over the weekend, the National Weather Service said.

No headline

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

It's all 'about that bass, 'bout that bass...'

A man didn’t realize how loud his music had been playing, particularly the bass. It had been like that for the last few days. The man agreed to turn it down when a Kalispell City Police officer spoke with him.

No headline

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

Parks Canada to invest millions for Waterton recovery

Canada has announced plans to invest $20.9 million (Canadian) to support Waterton’s ongoing recovery from the Kenow Wildfire.

No headline

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

Bigfork continues to hone village priorities

Bigfork residents, groups and organizations will gather Saturday for a third town-hall meeting to discuss the results of a survey identifying the top 10 issues facing the community.

Weekend update

Chocolate Affair

Carol Jean Peltier 52

Carol Jean Peltier 52, died in her home in Kalispell Jan 12, 2019.