Ellington

Schweikert nets 18, Wildkats top Libby to improve to 15-1

COLUMBIA FALLS — Hannah Schweikert posted a career-high 18 points as the Columbia Falls Wildkats trounced the Libby Lady Loggers 62-41 in a Northwest A girls basketball matchup on Thursday evening.

Knights take down Bravettes

Missoula Hellgate handed Flathead its fourth consecutive loss as it cruised to a 58-30 victory over the Bravettes in Western AA girls basketball action on Thursday at Flathead High School.

Man accused of negligent homicide pleads guilty to reduced charge

A man accused of negligent homicide in a DUI crash nearly four years ago entered a guilty plea to a reduced charge Tuesday in Flathead County District Court.

Libby woman admits income-tax evasion

A Libby woman admitted in federal court Wednesday to evading income taxes for two years while she was serving as the financial caretaker for an individual who was unable to care for herself, according to information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Missoula.

Bullock seeks to cement legacy in final State of the State speech

HELENA — Gov. Steve Bullock sought to cement his legacy in his final State of the State speech Thursday, touting improvements in Montana’s economy, educational opportunities and health care coverage since he took office in 2013.

Bigfork man sentenced to prison for Ponzi scheme

A Bigfork man, previously convicted of a felony, was sentenced to more than 10 years in federal prison Wednesday for illegally possessing firearms and for a multi-million dollar scheme to defraud investors who gave him money for oil and gas leases and art work, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Great Falls.

Huge music festival coming to Whitefish

An expansive two-day music festival led by Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Band of Horses and Dwight Yoakam, along with nearly two-dozen other bands and musicians, is planned July 13-14 at Big Mountain Ranch just east of Whitefish.

Missing Kalispell man found dead near Marion

A Kalispell man who was reported missing on Jan. 24 was found dead Wednesday, according to Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Dianne Marie Livermore Bufton, 62

Dianne Marie Livermore Bufton, 62, walks with Jesus today after a short battle with cancer that ultimately led her home Jan. 28, 2019. She loved and was loved by many from both of her earthly homes. She always said, “I have the family that God gave me and the family that I chose,” as she referred to family, respectively, that were based out of Livingston and those she later adopted in Kalispell.

Montana needs tools to investigate cases of missing native women

It’s not safe to be an Indian woman in Montana.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 9:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., U.S. Forest Service, Kalispell.

Alleged two-handed slap in the face stuns man

A man was not injured, just stunned, when his boss allegedly slapped him in the face with both hands in a store parking lot on West Idaho Street. The man reportedly told Kalispell Police Department he was not sure how he wanted to proceed because his boss was purportedly also a relative. The man was concerned about his job and lost wages and thought a police report might help with unemployment.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 9:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., U.S. Forest Service, Kalispell.

Officials euthanize cat that was habituated to people

A Eureka woman who said she is a confirmed “cat lover” isn’t happy that Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials euthanized a female mountain lion they caught in a cage trap on her property, even though she had alerted wildlife officials about the predator.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 9:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., U.S. Forest Service, Kalispell.

Wildlife investigator works a bloody beat

Brian Sommers warned the 90-plus people crammed into a stuffy room Monday night that his presentation included graphic images of victims of wildlife attacks.

Jennifer E. 'Jen' Blauvelt, 68

Jennifer E. “Jen” Blauvelt, 68, of Kalispell, died peacefully, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer, on Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2019.

Henrietta M. Irish, 91

Henrietta M. Irish was born as Henrietta Margaret Hellman on June 27, 1927, in Columbia Falls to James and Mary Hellman. She grew up in Kalispell.

Flu cases spike in Flathead County

Local influenza cases are on the rise, according to a recent report from the Flathead City-County Health Department that showed 86 cases were reported so far in January, up from just nine in December.

Letters to the editor Jan. 31

I enjoyed reading the article about Lee Downes in the Monday January 28, 2019 Daily Inter lake. It brought fond memories from when I hauled logs down Coal Creek from a few different logging jobs some years ago. Everyone I worked with always mentioned that was Lee Downes place and I was lucky enough to meet him a time or two.

Bill to reduce drug costs goes before Senate committee

A proposed bill that aims to substantially reduce prescription drug costs in Montana will be heard by the Senate Business and Labor Committee Friday morning.

Impressive show of competition and sportsmanship

There’s no debate about it — Flathead Valley high schools are a hotbed for speech and debate talent in Montana.

Thelma Virginia Bickle, 97

Thelma Virginia Bickle, 97, of Hot Springs, Arkansas, passed away Jan. 28, 2019, in a local rehabilitation center.

Western AA Seeding Tournament State push begins for Flathead, Glacier wrestlers

Flathead will have one champion — Jaden MacNeil — and Glacier will have one runner-up — Colby Martin — on the mats for the 2019 Western AA seeding tournament at Missoula Big Sky on Saturday at 11 a.m.

Man ID'd in fatal crash near Bigfork

The identity of an area man who died in a two-vehicle, head-on traffic accident Monday evening in Flathead County has been released.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Kalispell Elks Lodge.

Report details benefits of Medicaid expansion

A new report detailing economic contributions from Montana’s Medicaid expansion shows the program contributes more than $600 million to the state’s economy every year.

Local coach gets award for commitment, compassion

Jenny Griswold is the 2018 Special Olympics Montana Coach of the Year.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Kalispell Elks Lodge.

'Screaming' pooch delivers barking marathon

A dog was reportedly “screaming” for “at least” six hours on Monegan Road in Whitefish, according to a report Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received.

Bullock's infrastructure plan includes $208M in bonds

HELENA — A proposal by Montana Gov. Steve Bullock calls for $440 million in infrastructure projects across the state, including rural water projects, dam upgrades, a state museum and new university buildings.

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- Red Cross blood drive, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Kalispell Elks Lodge.

Faye Hilary Lomax, 71

Faye Hilary Lomax, 71, passed away on Monday Jan. 21, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Bulldogs roll by Ronan, 59-34

WHITEFISH — Whitefish held Ronan to six first-half points in posting a 59-34 Northwest A boys basketball victory on Tuesday.

Bigfork takes fourth at state Class B-C speech meet

Bigfork High School Speech and Debate placed fourth at the Class B-C state speech and debate tournament in Three Forks on Jan. 25-26.

MSU fundraising campaign tops $413 million

BOZEMAN — Montana State University’s comprehensive fundraising campaign, “What It Takes,” raised more than $413 million for the university’s people, places and programs, MSU officials announced Tuesday, making it the most successful fundraising campaign in Montana’s history.

Man killed in Montana 82 collision

An area man died in a two-vehicle, head-on traffic accident Monday evening in Flathead County.

C-Falls wins state speech title after scoring error detected

In an unusual twist of events, Columbia Falls High School has reclaimed the title of state speech and debate champion and added its 14th consecutive trophy to its wall, while Whitefish had to give up its first-place standing due to a clerical error.

Kalispell man charged with threatening woman

A Kalispell man was recently charged after he allegedly threatened the mother of his child with a gun.

Airport has another record year

Glacier Park International Airport accommodated more than 600,000 inbound and outbound passengers in 2018, once again breaking its annual record as tourism continues to grow as an economic backbone in the Flathead Valley.

Glacier County man faces negligent homicide charge

A Glacier County man accused of negligent homicide while under the influence of methamphetamine recently was incarcerated in the Flathead County Jail.

Community Kitchen marks 30 years of making meals

Hot meals served by the helping hands at Community Kitchen have kept the hungry, homeless, handicapped, elderly and working poor of Kalispell fed for 30 years.

Is there a hunting season on drones?

A woman on Manning Road in Kalispell called 911, reportedly asking if she could shoot a drone out of the sky. The drone allegedly was at her window and took off when she chased after it with her shotgun. Flathead County Sheriff’s Office contacted the drone operator, who claimed it was an accident and wouldn’t happen again.

Resort operations director to retire after 40 years

Chester “Chet” Powell’s career on The Big Mountain in Whitefish began in 1976 when he was hired to join the ski patrol.

Horse injured, euthanized during skijoring event

The World Invitational Skijoring races ended early on Sunday after a horse was injured on the course and was euthanized.

Bigfork woman in fatal crash ID'd

The Montana Highway Patrol has identified the former Bigfork woman who was hit and killed by a Jeep Jan. 22 near Conrad.

Kimball J. Mower, 88

Kimball J. Mower, 88, born Oct. 3, 1930, in Moreland, Idaho, the fourth of seven children to Ralph and Lucille Mower, passed away Thursday, Dec. 20, 2018, at home surrounded by his by family.

Jeanette 'Gail' Litchfield, 81

Jeanette “Gail” Litchfield, 81, of Whitefish, passed away peacefully on Jan. 20, 2019, at The Springs where she resided.

Mary Ann Rodman, 70

Mary Ann Rodman, a longtime Whitefish resident, passed away at St. Pat’s in Missoula on Jan. 21, 2019.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 406-283-7000.

Letters to the editor Jan. 28

In Helena, the Legislature is just starting to gain some steam. Bills are beginning to move through the House. Of note last week was the K-12 school funding bill which had a hearing in the House education committee. It is a Republican goal this session to get this bill to the governor’s desk early. Local school districts are not able to finalize their budgets until the Legislature does its work. In previous Legislatures this bill has been used as a political football later in the session. The effect of this was that local school districts would be handcuffed finalizing their budgets until as late as May. The Republican leadership wanted to help out our local school districts and get this base budget out early in the process. Schools are not partisan. So putting politics aside, we hope to pass this bill out of the House next week.

Whitefish Speech and Debate triumphs in tiebreaker

Bulldogs bring home the hardware, breaking Col. Falls dynasty

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 406-283-7000.

Hungry woman banished for eating and refusing to pay

Kalispell Police Department received a call from a frustrated employee who wanted police to remove a woman who reportedly kept eating food, but refusing to pay.

Keep word on protecting sage-grouse

At the end of 2018, Ryan Zinke’s tenure as secretary of the Interior ended. Like many Montanans, I had hoped Zinke’s promise to be a “Theodore Roosevelt” conservationist would lead to pro-wildlife and pro-hunter policies. Instead we got empty promises, investigations into ethics violations, and the reversal of long-standing conservation and wildlife protections.

Life in the North Fork: Fortitude and blessings

The tracks of wildlife meander indelibly through Lee Downes’ memories of a colorful life in the North Fork.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 406-283-7000.

Class AA speech and debate results recap

Finalists announced for coaching awards

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Raelynn Mae Nordwall, daughter of Paul and Alysha Nordwall of Kalispell, was born Nov. 7 at North Valley Hospital.

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Raelynn Mae Nordwall, daughter of Paul and Alysha Nordwall of Kalispell, was born Nov. 7 at North Valley Hospital.

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Raelynn Mae Nordwall, daughter of Paul and Alysha Nordwall of Kalispell, was born Nov. 7 at North Valley Hospital.

Letters to the editor Jan. 27

I had a lot of errands to run yesterday so I was in and out of a lot of businesses. I decided, at the beginning of the day, to keep count how often someone told me to “have a nice day”. Thirty-six times during the day I was told to “have a nice day.” Checkout people the most, friends I ran into, various business people, and even the computer at the library when I checked out my book. Even the computer told me to “have a nice day.” The computer obviously didn’t really mean it and has no emotions or wishes about what kind of day I have. All the other 35 times of “have a nice day” were from humans and most of those had a somewhat robotic feeling to them. We all continue to just say this farewell and for the most part it doesn’t feel genuine.

America's working people finally get attention

If you want to get the attention of the powers that be, you have to do something radical to call attention to yourself. A couple of years ago working-class Americans did that by electing Donald Trump as president. It’s no surprise, anybody with eyes could have seen it coming, and maybe they did, but they didn’t do anything about it. From 2010 to 2013 the Association of Democratic State Chairs was regularly called to task by the Chair of the Wyoming Democrats for paying attention to every minority but working-class Americans. The Democrats didn’t want to hear it, but they have now.

Wildlife conference is an American Prairie Reserve slideshow

The American Prairie Reserve (APR) is presently engaged in a major publicity effort to advance its acceptance in the Lewistown area by supporting a conference to teach area landowners how to live with wildlife.

Focused on getting the people's work done

The 66th Montana Legislative Session began Jan. 7 and based on the 3,101 bills that have been submitted so far, lawmakers will be working in overdrive. For Democrats, top priorities include keeping health care accessible for all Montanans, promoting good-paying jobs by investing in sustainable infrastructure, and passing a viable budget that allows for an adequate rainy-day fund.

Treehouse Collective raises money for shelter

Tucked into the Emporium on First Avenue East in Kalispell is a growing group of entrepreneurs known as The Treehouse Collective.

Glacier claims Montana AA Speech and Debate title

Months and months of feverish and exhaustive preparation came down to just a 5 1/2-point differential as Glacier High’s speech and debate claimed the Montana Class AA championship Saturday at Flathead High School.

3 decades of surfing Big Mountain

Stumptown Snowboards owner Joe Tabor proudly displays his first snowboard on the back wall of the store in downtown Whitefish. He handcrafted the solid-wood, arrowhead-shaped behemoth as a young boy in a school shop class in 1982. Stickers are plastered on the nose of the board where a rope is attached for steering — no bindings or boots required.

Invasive mussels pose economic, ecological threats, report says

For a region rich in lakes, the specter of infestation by invasive mussels can wring shudders from people familiar with what’s at stake.

Polson officer saves boy from drowning

The day began like most other days for Polson Police Officer Aaron Sutton.

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The Whitefish Kiddie Carnival will run from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, during the Whitefish Winter Carnival at the Whitefish Middle School gym.

Steve C. Jacobi, 61

Steve C. Jacobi, 61, of Columbia Falls, passed away Friday, Jan. 18, 2019, at home surrounded by loving family.

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The Whitefish Kiddie Carnival will run from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, during the Whitefish Winter Carnival at the Whitefish Middle School gym.

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The Whitefish Kiddie Carnival will run from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 2, during the Whitefish Winter Carnival at the Whitefish Middle School gym.

Virginia 'Jean' (Ellis) Reber, 92

Virginia “Jean” (Ellis) Reber passed away peacefully on Friday, Jan. 11, 2019, in Kalispell. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, and will be deeply missed.

Ice time: New kids league makes hockey accessible

For many years, parents who’ve enrolled their children in Flathead Valley youth hockey programs have signed up for an all-consuming experience.

Phyllis Ardella Wagnild, 96

Phyllis Ardella Wagnild, 96, of Kalispell, left this life peacefully at Heritage Place Nursing Home on Friday, Dec. 14, 2018.

The business of adventure Kalispell woman finds niche leading trips, retreats

Finding her calling took Maranda Ratcliff, 23, several years, a bit of disappointment and a lot of “soul searching” before she discovered a way to combine her love for nature with her desire to meet and connect with other women in her own business.

Agency on Aging helps ease the stress of aging

Let’s face it, growing older is not for the faint of heart. Even the most able-bodied older citizens may find challenges as the years go by, whether it’s the loss of a spouse, financial struggles or finding the right caregiver.

High School Basketball Roundup Buzzer-beater helps Wildcats sink Blue Devils

The Daily Inter Lake

Wrestling Flathead sweeps Helena schools; Glacier splits

HELENA — Flathead tuned up for postseason wrestling action on Saturday by downing both Helena Capital and Helena High in dual action.

Bravettes bow to Bruins

Flathead buried eight 3-pointers but was punished in the paint as Helena Capital rolled over the Bravettes 62-36 in Western AA girls basketball action on Saturday afternoon at Flathead High School.

Whitefish's Ring, Qunell win swim events

MISSOULA — Whitefish’s Preston Ring won the 50 freestyle (22.03) and 100 freestyle (47.98) and Ada Qunell of Whitefish placed first in the 200 freestyle (2:01.37) and finished second in the 100 butterfly to pace the Bulldogs at the Missoula Invitational swim meet on Saturday.

Barbara B. Gwin, 90

Barbara passed just shy of her 91st birthday on Jan. 11, 2019.

Bengals surge by Bravettes

Flathead kept undefeated Helena High uncomfortable until the final minutes, but the Bengals pulled away for a 49-32 victory over the Bravettes in a Western AA girls basketball clash on Friday night at Flathead High School.

Eureka girls top Whitefish; push win streak to 6 games

EUREKA — Sienna Utter tallied a game-high 17 points in leading Class B Eureka past Class A Whitefish 39-28 on Friday evening in nonconference girls basketball action.

Polson goes 3-0; Whitefish finishes 2-1

WHITEFISH — In the final test before divisonal and state competition, Polson posted a 3-0 mark and Whitefish went 2-1 on Friday at the Whitefish Wrestling Memorial Invitational dual tournament at Whitefish High School.

Suspect arrested following armed standoff

A Kalispell man accused of firing a gun at law enforcement officers during a Thursday evening incident has a troubled past involving dangerous drugs.

Whitefish's Voisin wins X Games bronze

Whitefish skier Maggie Voisin has another X Games medal to add to her collection.

C-Falls aims for a 14th consecutive state speech title

Columbia Falls Speech and Debate is on a quest to continue its reign as the Class A state champion.

Poll: Independents, moderates tipped scale for Tester

BOZEMAN – A post-election poll by Montana State University political scientists and the Montana Television Network analyzing the behavior of Montana voters in the November election showed that a majority of independent voters and a small percentage of moderate Republicans who crossed party lines to vote for Democratic incumbent Jon Tester, were major factors in his re-election to the U.S. Senate.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Kalispell Toyota; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Kalispell Toyota; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Kalispell Toyota; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Commercial subdivison near landfill gets OK

A request for preliminary plat approval for what will become four light industrial/commercial lots near the Flathead County Landfill was unanimously approved by the county commissioners on Tuesday.

Murder suspect still waiting for mental-health evaluation

A Whitefish man who is accused of killing his father in a dispute more than six months ago is still waiting for a mental-health evaluation.

Sheila Morin (Ellman), 63

Sheila Morin (Ellman), loving wife, mother and grammy, passed away peacefully Monday evening, Jan. 21, 2019, following a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her family.

Weekend update

Dowler in concert

Arlen Luther Erickson, 62

Arlen Luther Erickson passed away peacefully due to colon cancer on Saturday, Jan. 12, 2019, at Peace Hospice in Great Falls, with his wife and daughter by his side.

Kalispell council passes first reading of TIF district

The tax increment finance district needed for implementation of the Downtown Urban Renewal Plan passed its first reading during Kalispell City Council’s meeting on Tuesday.

Libby cagers top Troy

LIBBY — Libby’s Ryggs Johnston scored 24 points as the Loggers routed Troy 68-30 in nonconference boys basketball play on Thursday.

Bigfork's Loeffler a finalist for national coach of year award

Longtime Bigfork High School coach Susan Loeffler is one of eight finalists for the 2019 National High School Athletic Coaches Association’s National Coach of the Year Award for girls track.

Glacier grapplers rally, best C-Falls on Senior Night

Glacier’s four seniors in the lineup — Dylan Miller (113), Tristan Little (120), Caden Willis (152) and Colby Martin (205) — left the mat with wins on Senior Night, helping the Wolfpack rally by visiting Columbia Falls for a 40-27 dual wrestling victory on Thursday at Glacier High School.

Man arrested after shots fired in Kalispell standoff

A man was arrested Thursday evening following an armed standoff in Kalispell in which shots were fired with law enforcement officers on the scene.

Montana attorney general announces campaign for governor

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana's attorney general announced his candidacy for governor on Thursday, joining what's expected to be a crowded Republican field as the GOP tries to win next year's open seat and put an end to 16 years of Democratic rule.

Russell Edward Diehl, 86

Mr. Russell Edward “Red Dog” Diehl peacefully passed away in his home in Kalispell on Jan. 21, 2019.

Andrew Craigan Harris, 22

On Monday, Jan. 21, 2019, Andrew Craigan Harris began eternity with Jesus!

Don E. 'Pete' Clark, 91

Captain Don E. “Pete” Clark passed away in his sleep on Jan. 14, 2019.

Seniors voice concerns about aging as new plan takes shape

What concerns you most about aging?

'Great Montana Read' announces winners

“Perma Red” by author Debra Magpie Earling has been voted the top book beloved by Montanans through “The Great Montana Read” program, headed by MontanaPBS and Montana Public Radio.

Whitefish set to host skijoring races

Late January in the Flathead means its skijoring time in Whitefish.

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- Kalispell Public Schools district board work session, 6 p.m., Kalispell Middle School Library.

Kalispell speech teams vie for No. 1

The Class AA speech and debate tournament returns to Kalispell this weekend, with Flathead and Glacier high schools contending for the championship title this weekend.

C-Falls residents face big decisions about schools

The Columbia Falls School District is the latest local district to delve into the process of looking at facility needs down the road, due to aging school infrastructure, building security and, during some years, classroom overcrowding.

Violinist Wai Mizutani opens FVCC concert series

Flathead Valley Community College Music Department’s spring concert series opens Feb. 1 with a performance by world-renowned violinist and FVCC music faculty member Wai Mizutani.

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- Kalispell Public Schools district board work session, 6 p.m., Kalispell Middle School Library.

Mission Mountain Wood Band presents a benefit concert

Logjam Presents and the Montana World Affairs Council welcome the Mission Mountain Wood Band live for a benefit concert March 3 in Missoula to support Global Education Initiatives for Montana Youth.

Game managers propose deer hunting changes

After considering a number of factors, wildlife managers from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 1 are proposing eliminating either-sex white-tailed deer licenses for two districts in Northwest Montana.

Inter Lake newsroom's favorite Montana books

Picking a favorite book or author with Montana roots is like roaming through a complex and beautiful canvas, always toward a new view, a fresh perspective.

Weekly events Jan. 14-21

THURSDAY, JAN. 24

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- Kalispell Public Schools district board work session, 6 p.m., Kalispell Middle School Library.

Black Curtain Theatre stages 'Ripcord' on two nights

Whitefish Theatre Co. presents its third Black Curtain production of the season, “Ripcord” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 26 and 27.

Letters to the editor Jan. 23

In a not-so-subtle rebuke to Republican leadership in the U.S. Senate, Sen. Jon Tester told MSNBC host Lawrence O’Donnell recently that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell can end the government shutdown by scheduling a vote on bi-partisan House bills to fund the government.

Snowstorm closes schools, snarls traffic

Several inches of snow fell Tuesday night into Wednesday in Northwest Montana, closing Whitefish, Bigfork and Swan River schools on Wednesday and causing difficult driving conditions that led to several traffic accidents.

Patty cake, patty cake, hit in the face

A woman told Kalispell Police Department she drove by a grocery store and reportedly saw a man pulling another man out of a vehicle. The men, one reportedly wearing a football jersey, the other a baker’s uniform, allegedly got into a tussle over accusations of theft that resulted in some bloody lips and bleeding hands.

New Yellow Bay Fire Hall aims to improve response

The new fire hall’s recent completion along Montana 35 north of Polson improves emergency response to residences in the vicinity of Yellow Bay and Blue Bay and to motor vehicle crashes along a stretch of the well-traveled, narrow highway, officials say.

Learn about Alzheimer's, dementia through local courses

The Alzheimer’s Association is offering a series of educational programs that cover key information about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and related topics for people who are facing a diagnosis as well as those who wish to be informed. Volunteer Community Educator Thane Kraut is delivering each of these free community presentations.

New Nordic ski area opening in Columbia Falls

The newest cross-country skiing area in the Flathead Valley opens this weekend in Columbia Falls.

Diana Lea (Brooks) Cohenour, 71

Diana Lea (Brooks) Cohenour, 71, passed away on Jan. 14, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Adult broomball league takes to the ice in Kalispell

Mark Freidline, recreation superintendent with Kalispell Parks & Recreation, comes from a Midwest community with a thriving broomball culture.

Anne Arleen Jambor, 91

Anne Arleen Jambor, 91, of Kalispell died Friday Jan. 4, 2019. Annie passed away peacefully in Seattle at the home of her daughter Annette and son-in-law Josh Trethewey.

Kyssan Allan Brauer, infant

Born Dec. 30, 2018, Kyssan Allan Brauer, our little angel, was called to the Lord on Jan. 12, 2019.

Billie Joyce LaBudde, 77

Billie Joyce LaBudde, 77, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home the morning of Friday, Jan. 18, 2019.

Dream Adaptive offers therapy weekends for veterans

A unique opportunity to engage in “play therapy,” Dream Adaptive Recreation Veteran ski and snowboard weekends at Whitefish Mountain Resort give disabled veterans premium access to Big Mountain powder on Jan. 26 and 27, Feb. 23 and 24 and March 16 and 17.

Fair-Mont-Egan searching for new school logo

Fair-Mont-Egan School is in the midst of holding a contest to find the school’s next logo.

Harold 'Hal' Schafer, 95

Hal Schafer of Columbia Falls passed away Jan.17, 2019, at the age of 95.

Polson pins dual loss on Glacier

POLSON — Class A Polson doubled the score on Class AA Glacier, winning the wrestling dual 48-24 on Tuesday evening.

Wildcats down Chiefs in thriller

COLUMBIA FALLS — It wasn’t the prettiest win, but the Columbia Falls Wildcats got the job done, beating the Ronan Chiefs 58-55 in overtime on Tuesday in a Northwest A boys basketball clash.

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

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

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

Report: Kalispell building should be strong in 2019

Residential contractors should enjoy a busy 2019 building season in Kalispell.

Agency on Aging meeting to shape new area plan

The Flathead County Agency on Aging will hold a public meeting today to discuss which challenges facing the county’s older population should be prioritized in the agency’s 2019 to 2022 area plan.

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- Medicare 101 class, 9-11 a.m., Flathead County South Campus, 40 11th St. W., Kalispell. Representatives guide through health insurance basics. Cost is $10. Call 758-5730.

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- Medicare 101 class, 9-11 a.m., Flathead County South Campus, 40 11th St. W., Kalispell. Representatives guide through health insurance basics. Cost is $10. Call 758-5730.

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- Medicare 101 class, 9-11 a.m., Flathead County South Campus, 40 11th St. W., Kalispell. Representatives guide through health insurance basics. Cost is $10. Call 758-5730.

Air access is a big deal for rural Montana

When Lana Zellner and her husband — an architect and a software developer, respectively — moved to Philipsburg from New York City five years ago seeking a quieter place to call home, they joined the ranks of Montana’s remote workers.

Senator seeks traction for highway deicer bill

For state Sen. Dee Brown, the word “slurry” begets “worry” and propels her each legislative session to try to reduce the state’s use of salt-brine deicers on public highways.

Bigfork grabs 10th consecutive divisional win

Bigfork Speech and Debate captured its 10th straight Class B-C divisional win in Malta over the weekend with 93 overall points.

Whitefish upsets rival C-Falls for divisional win

Whitefish High School Speech and Debate turned the tide on rival Columbia Falls with a first-place finish on home turf at the Class A divisionals over the weekend.

It's decision time for big apartment project in Whitefish

The Whitefish City Council will pick up where it left off Jan. 7 with a proposal to build seven apartment buildings on the former North Valley Hospital site at Tuesday’s meeting.

Zoning changes, TIF district on Kalispell agenda

Kalispell City Council will hold a first reading for the planned tax increment finance district at its meeting on Tuesday.

Fulfilling and challenging work

Flathead County Jail Commander Jennifer Root has worked with Northwest Montana’s most troubled citizens for nearly 20 years, but it’s clear she still loves her job.

Residents wary of door-to-door sales

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report from a woman on U.S. 2 in Kalispell who was frustrated by the persistence of people who came to her house allegedly wanting to come in and clean her carpets.

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- Flathead County Republican Women meet at noon, Hampton Inn, Kalispell. Speaker is Ron Catlett, field director for Sen. Steve Daines Lunch available. Call Heidi Roedel, 270-5606.

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- Flathead County Republican Women meet at noon, Hampton Inn, Kalispell. Speaker is Ron Catlett, field director for Sen. Steve Daines Lunch available. Call Heidi Roedel, 270-5606.

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- Flathead County Republican Women meet at noon, Hampton Inn, Kalispell. Speaker is Ron Catlett, field director for Sen. Steve Daines Lunch available. Call Heidi Roedel, 270-5606.

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Reid Thomas Maurice, son of Dean and Tara Maurice of Kalsipell, was born Oct. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

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Reid Thomas Maurice, son of Dean and Tara Maurice of Kalsipell, was born Oct. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

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Reid Thomas Maurice, son of Dean and Tara Maurice of Kalsipell, was born Oct. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

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Emelia Ruth Schwegel-King, daughter of Trevor Schwegel and Kassaundra King of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

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Emelia Ruth Schwegel-King, daughter of Trevor Schwegel and Kassaundra King of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

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Emelia Ruth Schwegel-King, daughter of Trevor Schwegel and Kassaundra King of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

We can lower the cost of medication - here's how

Everyone agrees that the high cost of prescription medications is a huge issue, but there hasn’t been a serious attempt to solve the problem in Montana. We’re changing that by bringing forward legislation we estimate will save Montanans about $8 million in the first year alone.

Margaret 'Peggy' (Palmer) Hurd, 77

Beloved mother, wife, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend Peggy Hurd passed away on Jan. 8, 2019, of a heart attack while at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. She was 77 years old and had been married to Gary “Herbie” Hurd for 55 years.

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Prestige Assisted Living at Kalispell recently launched a free resource guide to help older adults and their loved ones address common changes in daily living that come with age.

Change of attitude needed to lower health-care costs

My critique of the KRMC goal for health care that maximizes revenue rather than lowering costs used the Digestive Health Institute and the Orthopedic Clinic as examples. I thank Dr. Jaffe for the content of his response (Daily Inter Lake, Jan. 6), which only confirms my point. He tries to justify those higher costs, not provide solutions to lower them.

A birthday milestone Mom won't remember

My mother’s 90th birthday is today. It’s a milestone she won’t remember.

Frank Arthur Kellenbeck, 66

Frank Arthur Kellenbeck, 66, passed away Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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- Glacier Nordic Center offer free trail passes for cross-country skiing, free two-hour rentals, and free classic ski lessons, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Whitefish Lake Golf Course. Call 862-9498.

Kristen Anderson Ledyard, 46

Kristen Ledyard, 46, of Whitefish, passed away on Jan. 10, 2019.

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Prestige Assisted Living at Kalispell recently launched a free resource guide to help older adults and their loved ones address common changes in daily living that come with age.

Tracking 101: Walking the stalk

Tom Riggs knelt in the snow to eyeball the fish scales and tiny remnants of crustaceans. The scat provided additional evidence of the frisky presence of the North American river otter.

Foaling in love Young mustangs the latest addition at equine rescue ranch

It’s 7 a.m. on a crisp January morning at Hiatt Equestrian Rescue and Recreation in Bigfork. The sun has yet to consider rising, leaving one to maneuver the early hours with senses other than sight.

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Prestige Assisted Living at Kalispell recently launched a free resource guide to help older adults and their loved ones address common changes in daily living that come with age.

Letters to the editor Jan. 20

Just a few days ago, the Daily Inter Lake’s “100 Years Ago in the Flathead” remembered an article in the Inter Lake from 1919 that lamented the number of frivolous laws proposed during the Montana Legislature that year.

Thomas Sluiter, 79

On Jan. 9, 2019, Thomas “Tom” or “Tommy” G. Sluiter Jr., 79, left this earthy home to go tell jokes and seek free meals on God’s celestial plane. He was greeted in his tomfoolery of death by his son Marcus, his mother Louise, and his father Thomas Sr.

Virginia 'Jean' (Ellis) Reber, 92

Virginia “Jean” (Ellis) Reber passed away peacefully on Friday, Jan. 11, 2019, in Kalispell. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, and will be deeply missed.

Deputy assists teachers with unruly pupils

A deputy with the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office spoke to educators about issues they were having with students cyber bullying others and some vaping at the school in Somers.

Skilled labor jobs vital to Flathead's economy

With a growing need for workers in skilled trades such as welding, heavy-equipment operation, plumbing and electrical work, it was great to learn about a recent collaboration among local educators and business advocates that allowed high school students to get some hands-on experience in a number of trade jobs.

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- Glacier Nordic Center offer free trail passes for cross-country skiing, free two-hour rentals, and free classic ski lessons, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Whitefish Lake Golf Course. Call 862-9498.

Do you know where your beef is from?

Let’s start with a question. Where are you sitting right now? Are you reading this newspaper in your office or your home? Now, pick up any object around you. Chances are good that whatever you have in your hand — perhaps food or a coffee mug — it’s labeled “product of” where it was made.

Chalking it up Custom calligraphy specialist caters to businesses, weddings

Last weekend’s My Montana Wedding expo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds gave Laurel Mallery a chance to gauge interest in her calligraphy and art skills.

Ashley Marie Nishiyama, 16

Ashley Marie Nishiyama began blessing us with her life beginning April 1, 2002.

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- Glacier Nordic Center offer free trail passes for cross-country skiing, free two-hour rentals, and free classic ski lessons, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Whitefish Lake Golf Course. Call 862-9498.

Childhood trauma can have workplace impact

If the average workforce is a microcosm of the wider world, a significant percentage of employees in any business are living with childhood traumas that can be destructive to career success.

Col. Falls considers elementary school proposals

Columbia Falls School District is zeroing in on facility plans for its two elementary schools, which are facing aging infrastructure, building security concerns, and, in some years, overcrowding.

Whitefish wrestlers 2-1 on final day of Class A Duals

BELGRADE — Whitefish wrapped up Class A Duals wrestling action Saturday by beating Miles City 33-27 and Glendive 51-18 while losing to Dillon 42-30.

Flathead, Glacier grapplers post wins at AA Duals

GREAT FALLS — Flathead’s wrestlers placed fifth at the AA Duals on Saturday.

Wildkats throttle Hamilton in defensive battle

COLUMBIA FALLS — Thirty-nine points is rarely a lot in a game of basketball, but it was all the Wildkats needed to turn this one into a rout.

Prep Basketball Lady Lions earn 5th straight victory

EUREKA – Maggie Graves’ double-double helped propel Eureka (8-2) to its fifth consecutive victory by beating Anaconda 44-37 in Class B nonconference girls basketball play on Saturday.

PHOTOS: Flathead Gymnastics Academy performs at Glacier Challenge

Photos of Flathead Gymnastics Academy gymnasts performing the vault, uneven bars and balance beam events at the 4th annual Glacier Challenge at the Flathead County Fairgrounds Trade Center in Kalispell on Saturday.

Contrasting rallies held in downtown Kalispell

Kwen Shirley and Braxton Shewalter are clearly on opposite sides of the fence when it comes to their politics, but both have sought or want to seek office. On Saturday, they each helped organize contrasting rallies held at Depot Park in downtown Kalispell.

Big Mountain 911 call a happy false alarm

A skier’s twists and turns on Big Mountain resulted in a pocket dial to 911. She called back to confirm she was OK.

Margaret 'Peggy' (Palmer) Hurd, 77

Beloved mother, wife, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend Peggy Hurd passed away on Jan. 8, 2019, of a heart attack while at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. She was 77 years old and had been married to Gary “Herbie” Hurd for 55 years.

Carrie Ann Baker, 48

Carrie died peacefully at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Jan. 16, 2019, from complications stemming from an abdominal aortic aneurysm that occurred on Dec. 26, 2018.

Local long-term care centers under new management

Three Flathead County long-term care centers are now under new operational ownership.

Woman accused of DUI with toddler in vehicle

A Flathead Valley woman is facing charges after authorities allege she drove drunk with a toddler in the vehicle.

Evergreen gets grant for classroom breakfast program

Evergreen Junior High is one of 18 schools to receive grant funding to serve breakfast in the classroom with the goal of addressing child hunger and food insecurity.

Mission program gives insight about life in developing nations

Walk through a Bolivian market or visit a Ugandan schoolroom to sample the experience of life in a developing nation without ever leaving the Flathead Valley.

Flathead jobless rate up in December

Flathead County’s unemployment rate rose half a percentage point in December, to 5.2 percent. The county had been at a 4.7 percent unemployment rate in November and 4.1 percent in October.

Biomedical, engineering courses give students 'transportable skills'

Project Lead the Way programs in Flathead and Glacier high schools have reached milestones.

Whitefish's Flannery picks up 2 mat wins

BELGRADE — Whitefish’s wrestlers lost to Frenchtown 52-19 and Hardin 40-30 on Friday at the Class A Duals.

Bigfork's Epperly sets state assists record

BIGFORK — It was a night of milestones, state records and career highs on Friday at Bigfork High School.

PHOTOS: Whitefish boys, girls top Polson

Photos from Whitefish and Polson’s boys’ and girls’ high school basketball games at Whitefish High School on Friday. The Whitefish boys beat Polson, 53-49. In the girls’ game, the Lady Bulldogs topped the Lady Pirates 56-24.

Authorities seek men who shot at woman in Coram

A shooting occurred at a Coram residence early Friday morning and authorities are seeking two suspects.

Officials warn of wolves roaming in Cooke City

Two weeks ago, wolves killed a domestic dog at night outside of a home in Cooke City, outside of Yellowstone National Park, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Wolves have also been seen repeatedly on streets in Cooke City, including Main Street, side streets, and the Bannock Trail.

Kalispell man scores big lottery win

HELENA – The Montana Lottery awarded $159,364 in cash prizes since Jan. 10.

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- Annual Wings Radiothon on B-98 and sister stations, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sportsman Ski Haus, Kalispell. Call 257-9464 to make a donation.

Tribes weathering the government shutdown, for now

Amid the financial chasm created for many federal employees affected by the ongoing partial government shutdown, the Blackfeet and Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes have kept most of their employees at work, with offices open and services running.

Billie Jean Caton, 93

Billie Jean Caton, 93, passed away peacefully on Dec. 26, 2018, in Hillsboro, Oregon, in the presence of her daughter, Victoria Long, and her two granddaughters, Briana Ellenberger and Jessica Biggers.

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- Annual Wings Radiothon on B-98 and sister stations, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sportsman Ski Haus, Kalispell. Call 257-9464 to make a donation.

Margaret 'Peggy' (Palmer) Hurd, 77

Beloved mother, wife, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend Peggy Hurd passed away on Jan. 8, 2019, of a heart attack while at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. She was 77 years old and had been married to Gary “Herbie” Hurd for 55 years.

Betty Olson, 91

Betty Olson passed away Dec. 1, 2018.

Women's march planned Saturday in Kalispell

Love Lives Here, the Flathead County Democratic Women plus Big Sky Rising and Indivisible Flathead are hosting a women’s march from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19, at Kalispell’s Depot Park.

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- Annual Wings Radiothon on B-98 and sister stations, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sportsman Ski Haus, Kalispell. Call 257-9464 to make a donation.

Glacier Park visitors, federal workers weigh in on shutdown

A pileated woodpecker’s persistent drumming broke the pervasive silence surrounding the darkened, locked headquarters of Glacier National Park.

Annual tribute honors legacy of civil-rights leader

The annual Love Lives Here celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. is happening tonight at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m. Once again the event will be hosted by Rabbi Allen Secher and Erica von Kleist. It is free to attend, but donations will be accepted in the lobby for those who want to contribute.

Group pitches $5.5 million community center to school board

Freedom Bank President Don Bennett again pitched a new community center and Boys and Girls Club facility to the School District 6 School Board Monday night.

Bigfork boys blow by Eureka

EUREKA – The Bigfork Vikings got 22 points from Logan Gillard and blew out the Eureka Lions 69-11 in a District 7B boys basketball game Thursday evening.

Wolfpack takes down Pirates, 58-39

Glacier bounced back from a tough first quarter to cruise by Polson 58-39 in nonconference boys basketball action on Thursday night at Glacier High School.

Flathead hacks Hellgate, 60-18

It was quick and to the point.

Dangerous avalanche conditions expected this weekend

The Flathead Avalanche Center warned Thursday that avalanche danger will rise to high by Friday or Saturday in areas that include the Swan Range, the Whitefish Range, the Flathead Range and Glacier National Park.

NW Montana Shopko stores to remain open

Though more than 100 Shopko stores across the country are closing after the retailer filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Wednesday, the stores in Kalispell, Whitefish and Libby will remain open. The Wolf Point and Plentywood stores are the only Montana locations closing.

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THURSDAY, JAN. 17

Great Falls Symphony chamber ensemble performs Jan. 25

The Sunburst Community Foundation’s 20th annual Performing Arts Series has drawn a star-studded line-up of performers to the 2018-19 concert series. The five concerts bring an amazing spectrum of sounds, from jazz to traditional Irish genres.

Pertussis cases still on the rise in Flathead

Recent reports from the Flathead City-County Health Department show a recent spike in cases of pertussis, a highly contagious respiratory disease commonly known as whooping cough.

Winter trails day events planned in the Flathead

Lone Pine State Park and the Flathead Community of Resource Educators has planned a number of free outdoor activities to celebrate the 23rd anniversary of National Winter Trails Day in the Flathead Valley.

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THURSDAY, JAN. 17

Expanding access to mental-health resources

With the recent cutback in mental-health services across the state and within the Flathead Valley, it was welcome news to hear Sweetgrass Psychiatric Services in Whitefish has expanded its staff and facility, and has plans to reach out to other rural areas in need of more services.

Letters to the editor Jan. 17

Sen. Scott Sales calls $8 million “trivial” the amount he thinks Montana’s taxpayers should contribute to President Trump’s border wall. So let’s do the math. If $8 million is “trivial,” then $16 million is “something.” That would then make $32 million “noticeable.” What then do you call $59 million – the cost of sustaining Medicaid expansion in Montana? I’d call it “affordable” and a legislative success. Spend some of Montana’s taxpayer dollars on the Montana taxpayer, Sen. Sales. Help citizens, families and business succeed.

Valley Voices Community Choir begins spring season

The Valley Voices Community Choir begins its spring season Monday, Jan. 28, at 6 p.m. in the choir room of Flathead High School. Everyone who likes to sing is welcome to join.

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THURSDAY, JAN. 17

Women's ice fishing class Feb. 15-16

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Becoming an Outdoors-Woman program is sponsoring an ice fishing class Feb. 15-16.

Lois Randall knits a vibrant path to healing

One of the many side effects of chemotherapy is the inability to concentrate. Lois Randall describes it as “the fog rolling in and out from the sea of my mind.” To keep her mind preoccupied during a treatment one day, Randall picked up some yarn resting in a basket and began to knit, a craft her mother had taught her and that she has practiced all her life.

Upcoming events

Glacier Symphony rings in 2019 with two performances of the Gershwin Gala at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish: Jan. 19, 7:30 p.m.; Jan 20, 3 p.m.

Where's winter?

Have you been out ice fishing in the valley this year? If you have, I am guessing it has been on one of our smaller bodies of water, as it seems Ol’ Man Winter just refuses to strike a “deal” with Mother Nature and get serious about making ice. While it is real winter in so much of the upper Midwest, our Montana weather just continues to be mild. Many area lakes do have ice, but the thickness and quality varies greatly, so please be super careful and assume nothing based on the calendar.

Government shutdown doesn't hamstring solo hikes

Much has been made of the federal government shutdown in terms of how it affects our national parks, but from my limited perspective, the impact seems to be minimal in terms of the park and not of the people who work there.

Attempted burglary extinguished at fire station

Someone on Willow Glen Drive in Kalispell claiming to be with the South Kalispell Fire Department arrived at the station to find a man in his late 20s taking department-owned sawhorses and loading them up into a beat-up truck, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. The person reportedly took a photo of the man’s license plate and then he started unloading the sawhorses, saying something to the effect of, “I guess I should put these back now.”

Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations planned

Love Lives Here in the Flathead is collaborating with Groovetrail and Jazz at Lincoln Center for a night of music to celebrate the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.

Flathead man accused of stealing marine battery

A Flathead Valley man was allegedly caught in the act when an arrest was made relating to the theft of a marine battery.

Kalispell man accused of kidnapping, assault

A Kalispell man was jailed recently after he was accused of kidnapping his girlfriend and assaulting her during a Christmas Eve incident.

Overman named police chief

The city of Kalispell has a new chief of police and it’s a man who is well-known in the community.

Nicholson transfers to Rocky Mountain College

BILLINGS — Rocky Mountain College women’s soccer head coach Richard Duffy has announced Haley Nicholson’s signing of a letter-of-intent for the fall of 2019.

Clark to coach Columbia Falls girls soccer

The Columbia Falls School Board has approved the hiring of Thomas Clark as head girls soccer coach for the Wildkats program.

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A freak, and horrific road accident one summer destroyed Todd Emslie’s dreams of a star-studded football career at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

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A freak, and horrific road accident one summer destroyed Todd Emslie’s dreams of a star-studded football career at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Moderates emerge as major players in state Legislature

HELENA — A loose-knit, ever-evolving group of Republican legislators is making waves and causing headaches in the 66th Montana Legislature.

Woman doesn't kowtow to bovine bully

A pet sitter was out walking a dog on Wolf Creek Drive in Bigfork when it became interested in checking out cows along the road. Their constitutional was rudely interrupted when a man showed up and reportedly started taking pictures of her, chasing her and scolding her saying,“I am tired of you g-------- people bothering my cows,” according to a report from Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

William 'Bill' Covey, 90

Bill Covey, 90, passed away on Jan.13, 2019, in Kalispell, with the love and support of his family after suffering a stroke.

Gregory Devlin, 71

Gregory Devlin, 71, of Missoula and Polson, passed away at his home Thursday, Jan. 10, 2019.

Chamber looks toward another year of growth

The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce pitched its strategic plans for 2019 during a luncheon Tuesday at the Red Lion Hotel that director Joe Unterreiner billed as a de facto “annual meeting.”

Jon Allan 'Jake' Dews, 81

Jon Allan “Jake” Dews, 81, formerly of Big Timber, passed away Sunday, Jan. 6, 2019.

Kalispell woman crowned Miss Rodeo Montana

A 25-year-old Kalispell woman who survived a local plane crash seven years ago was named Miss Rodeo Montana 2019 on Saturday.

Montana issuing February SNAP benefits early due to shutdown

February food benefits will be distributed early to thousands of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients in lieu of the ongoing partial government shutdown, according to an announcement Tuesday by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

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

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

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

Libby/Troy, Whitefish tie in wrestling dual

LIBBY — Libby/Troy and Whitefish battled to at 33-all tie in a Northwest A wrestling dual on Tuesday with forfeits and pins accounting for the bulk of the scoring for both teams.

Investigation yields no gun at Kalispell Middle School

No gun was found in Kalispell Middle School following an investigation into an allegation that one was possibly located in a student locker.

Allegiant to offer direct flight to Phoenix

Las Vegas-based Allegiant airlines will offer a new direct flight from Kalispell to Phoenix beginning May 15.

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- Kalispell Women’s Connection buffet lunch, 11:30 a.m., meeting room of Victory Baptist Church, 1830 Montana 35. Guest is Dave McLean with Ray of Hope. Speaker is Wendy Maechtle of Columbia Falls. Cost $9 per person. Call Jan, 857-2467, or Rosainne, 257-8098 for lunch and free child care reservations. Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries.

C-Falls holds public meeting to discuss growth policy

The Columbia Falls Planning Board will hold its second workshop on the forthcoming update of the Columbia Falls growth policy at tonight at City Hall.

Whitefish mental-health service expands to meet need

By way of a lot of hard work, Sweetgrass Psychological Services in Whitefish has managed to expand its operations with new staff and a new building, despite a county-wide decline of mental-health resources in the Flathead Valley.

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- Kalispell Women’s Connection buffet lunch, 11:30 a.m., meeting room of Victory Baptist Church, 1830 Montana 35. Guest is Dave McLean with Ray of Hope. Speaker is Wendy Maechtle of Columbia Falls. Cost $9 per person. Call Jan, 857-2467, or Rosainne, 257-8098 for lunch and free child care reservations. Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries.

Record year for waterfront sales

Sales of Flathead Lake waterfront real estate in 2018 broke all-time records for transactions and total volume.

There's no such thing as a free meal

A man and a woman in their mid-20s were reportedly kicked out of a hotel carrying out plates of breakfast food intended for guests only and this wasn’t the first time exasperated employees told Kalispell Police Department.

Park Knoll annexation on Planning Board agenda

The city of Whitefish is on track to annex 16 properties and an adjacent road along Park Knoll Lane. The proposed rezoning of those parcels is the focus of a Whitefish Planning Board public hearing on Thursday, Jan. 17.

Wimpy winter marches on in Flathead

The weather station at Glacier Park International Airport shows a measly 1 inch of snow on the ground. Grass is still exposed on most lawns around Kalispell and not once has the thermometer dipped below 0 this winter.

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- Kalispell Women’s Connection buffet lunch, 11:30 a.m., meeting room of Victory Baptist Church, 1830 Montana 35. Guest is Dave McLean with Ray of Hope. Speaker is Wendy Maechtle of Columbia Falls. Cost $9 per person. Call Jan, 857-2467, or Rosainne, 257-8098 for lunch and free child care reservations. Affiliated with Stonecroft Ministries.

School resumes today at Lakeside Elementary

School resumes today (Tuesday) for Lakeside Elementary students.

C-Falls grabs first at Polson tourney

Columbia Falls High School Speech and Debate finished first at the Polson Pirate Palooza tournament over the weekend with 145 overall points.

Marion man charged with felony assault

A Marion man is charged with strangling a woman after a recent incident in the Marion area.

Flathead notches win leading into state tourney

The Flathead High School Speech and Debate team was victorious in Great Falls over the weekend in the last tournament before the state tournament.

Montana campaign contribution limits stay in place

HELENA (AP) — The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday left in place Montana’s voter-approved limits on contributions to political campaigns in state elections, a decision that likely ends a legal challenge that lasted more than seven years and disrupted the 2012 governor’s race.

Preserving free elections is everyone's business

Free and fair elections are not partisan issues. Whether it’s imposing poll taxes in the Jim Crow South or rigging voting machines in Richard Daley’s Chicago, whenever public officials use the powers of government to control the ballot box, everyone loses. The bricks and mortar of our democratic republic crumble, and “government by the people” becomes “government by the government.” We cease to be free.

Letters to the editor Jan. 14

The proposed CSKT Water Compact (S. 262 bloated up in Sen. Tester’s Senate Bill 3013) violates the U.S. Constitution, Montana Constitution, and CSKT Tribal Constitution. Citizens should just shut up.

Locals win big in Montana Lottery

Two Flathead Valley residents claimed big cash prizes from the Montana Lottery to start the new year.

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Sadie James Fleming, daughter of Andy and Ashley Fleming of Kalispell, was born Sept. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

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

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Sadie James Fleming, daughter of Andy and Ashley Fleming of Kalispell, was born Sept. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

Man flees after slicing another's face

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report that a tall, skinny man allegedly “sliced” another man’s cheek from mouth to ear using a six-inch knife in Woodland Park in Kalispell. The suspect reportedly left on a bicycle. The area was cleaned up and interviews conducted with witnesses.

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Sadie James Fleming, daughter of Andy and Ashley Fleming of Kalispell, was born Sept. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

Jagz chef fine-tunes menu to Flathead's palate

More than 40 years of working in professional kitchens have taught Jeff Gregoire, chef and owner of Jagz restaurant near Kalispell, a few things about what people want from a gourmet meal.

School closed for Lakeside students due to water damage

Broken pipe discovered Sunday morning

Report says Flathead a technologically underserved area

BroadbandNow, a data-aggregation service that informs consumers about internet options through government data and verified customer reviews, recently released a report on online access in the Flathead Valley.

Miriam Legg Emerson, 73

Miriam Legg Emerson passed away on Dec. 30, 2018, at Kalispell Regional Health Center.

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Newsmakers

- Allyson Arnold has started a health-care management business called Inspired Health Care Navigations. Arnold, of Whitefish, is a registered nurse who will work with clients to navigate the health-care system. Throughout her career as a hospital nurse, a case manager for home health care and a psychiatric nurse, she said she has seen first-hand the need for independent health-care navigators and patient advocates.

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Three seats on Flathead Electric Cooperatives’ Board of Trustees are up for election this year. Potential candidates must be members of the co-op and live in the district they seek election to represent. The nominating petition requires 25 signatures from co-op members who also live in the candidate’s district. Nominating petitions with a photograph and biography (100 words or less) are due to Flathead Electric by Feb. 28.

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Kalispell’s four craft breweries and the Brewing Academy at Flathead Valley Community College are hosting “Frosty the Brewfest” from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19.

Charlotte Mary Meyer, 68

Charlotte Mary Meyer, 68, passed away Jan. 8, 2019, in Kalispell, Montana.

Jeanette Klein, 77

Jeanette Klein, 77, went home to her Lord and Savior on Dec. 31, 2018.

Whitefish crowns winter carnival king, queen

The royal court for the 60th Whitefish Winter Carnival is growing, with the Saturday evening crowning of the next King Ullr, Paul Coats, and Queen of the Snows Patricia Ryan.

James Eugene Megahan, 71

James Eugene Megahan, 71, passed away Jan. 10, 2019, after a long battle with cancer.

Letters to the editor Jan. 13

Sunday’s Jan. 6 letters to the editor section featured an opinion by Edd Blackler of Bigfork who extolled “Medicare for all” as a panacea for the health-care system. Mr. Blackler alleges that such a solution would reduce costs, while at the same time, improve access. I suggest that it is his “misinformation, and myths about what it is” that need to be dispelled, rather than the other way ‘round.

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Three seats on Flathead Electric Cooperatives’ Board of Trustees are up for election this year. Potential candidates must be members of the co-op and live in the district they seek election to represent. The nominating petition requires 25 signatures from co-op members who also live in the candidate’s district. Nominating petitions with a photograph and biography (100 words or less) are due to Flathead Electric by Feb. 28.

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Newsmakers

- Allyson Arnold has started a health-care management business called Inspired Health Care Navigations. Arnold, of Whitefish, is a registered nurse who will work with clients to navigate the health-care system. Throughout her career as a hospital nurse, a case manager for home health care and a psychiatric nurse, she said she has seen first-hand the need for independent health-care navigators and patient advocates.

Time for trades Students get firsthand look at skilled labor jobs

Current worker shortages nationwide have begun changing community conversations about the future of the next generation and the value of trade-based occupations, according to Kate Lufkin with the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce.

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Kalispell’s four craft breweries and the Brewing Academy at Flathead Valley Community College are hosting “Frosty the Brewfest” from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19.

Montana businesses can't afford inaction on LWCF

In Montana, the business of outdoor recreation is big business. Whether you are REI or a local main street operation selling gear and goods to communities who thrive on our outdoor amenity lifestyle, you are contributing to the $7.1 billion economy of the outdoors. Our mission at REI is centered on getting people outside to explore and experience nature and to be good stewards of our public lands. It’s the core of our business model, and the reason we are invested in the outdoors and the good policies that support them both here in Bozeman, and across the country. The Montana REI stores employ approximately 170 people and we’re proud to help fuel Montana’s growing outdoor economy which generates $2.2 billion in wages and salaries, and supports 71,000 jobs (and hiring).

Kalispell school board OKs technology funding

A plan to meet technology needs in the high school district was set in motion following a unanimous board decision Tuesday to allocate $200,000 in one-time money for upgrades and replacements at Flathead, Glacier high school and Linderman Education Center.

New law helps empower the patient

On Thursday we reported on a new federal law that took effect Jan. 1 requiring hospitals across the U.S. to publish online price lists for all of their medical services. Ultimately, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services hopes this change will bring about a transition of power favoring the consumer and provide a more patient-centered health-care system.

Are we up to the task?

What has happened to our country that it has become so divided and acrimonious and who can we blame for the state of affairs in Washington? That’s easy, let’s blame Obama or Pelosi or Reed and Schummer. Or Trump, McConnell and Ryan. Don’t forget the biased news media and the liberal left colleges. There’s certainly plenty of blame to share with all of them.

Pollutants decline in county and beyond

Lu Hu, assistant professor of atmospheric chemistry at the University of Montana, said very seldom do people consider a state like Montana when they think about air pollution. The state typically is known more for its abundant rivers and immense mountains than for smog.

Get our government operating again

As all of us are too painfully aware, we are in the midst of another government shutdown to the immediate detriment of about 800,000 individuals — 420,000 working temporarily without pay and 380,000 on furlough who are out of work. All this is over border security that I agree we need to have, BUT how do we get there?

Man's traffic ticket reaches courts

A man stopped at the Kalispell Police Department to inquire about a ticket he received. He was told that it was being handled by the courts.

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Kalispell’s four craft breweries and the Brewing Academy at Flathead Valley Community College are hosting “Frosty the Brewfest” from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 19.

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Three seats on Flathead Electric Cooperatives’ Board of Trustees are up for election this year. Potential candidates must be members of the co-op and live in the district they seek election to represent. The nominating petition requires 25 signatures from co-op members who also live in the candidate’s district. Nominating petitions with a photograph and biography (100 words or less) are due to Flathead Electric by Feb. 28.

Whitefish couple honored yet again for conservation work

Mary Sloan sensed she was being followed while hiking near Stanton Lake.

Surviving my 'Survivor' addiction

As a means of ridding my closet of skeletons in the New Year, I’ve decided to disclose my addiction to the reality show “Survivor.”

High School Wrestling Polson's Fritsch, C-Falls' McPhee 2nd at Rocky

MISSOULA — Polson’s Hunter Fritsch and Columbia Falls’ Colton McPhee were runners-up at the Jug Beck Rocky Mountain Classic wrestling tournament on Saturday at Missoula Sentinel High School.

Milner, Popp, Flake win swim events at Cat/Dog Invitational

WHITEFISH — The Cat/Dog Invitational swim meet at the Wave on Saturday was a Valley-wide affair with Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Flathead, Glacier and Whitefish in attendance.

Eureka, Libby girls post hoop wins in league play

TROY – The Eureka Lions routed District 7B opponent Troy 66-19 in girls basketball play at Troy High School on Saturday.

Vikings get it done on D, rip Falcons 56-23

By COLIN GAISER

Montana visitor spending increases in 2018

Approximately 12.2 million nonresidents visited Montana in 2018 and spent nearly $3.7 billion in the Treasure State, according to preliminary estimates by the Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research at the University of Montana.

Man accused of punching woman over avocado dispute

Lack of avocado on a man’s burger may have led to an assault that left his girlfriend bloodied and him facing charges after a recent incident in Kalispell.

Glacier High expands open-campus policy

Glacier High School sophomores and juniors will be able to leave campus during lunch beginning Jan. 22. Before, only seniors were allowed off campus.

Whitefish High campaign takes aim at plastic bottles

Whitefish High School has launched a new campaign to reduce the number of plastic bottles used at Bulldogs sporting events.

Kalispell woman accused of torching her trailer

Law enforcement officials said a woman who allegedly didn’t want to move her trailer after she had been evicted from the property, set it on fire and now faces an arson charge.

No one injured in icy Rose Crossing crash

Debbie Street didn’t say “I told you so.” But the crash scene that unfolded Friday morning at the 90-degree curve above her home off Rose Crossing fit a scenario she has predicted for months.

Cars in the ditch, but no one's there

A person reported to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office that he had just left Badger Hollow in Lost Prairie and there was a vehicle in the creek and one on the ditch. There weren’t any people around and both vehicles had snow on them. The caller said he wasn’t comfortable stopping because of the drug and transient activity in the area.

ImagineIF librarian named 'emerging leader'

ImagineIF Libraries’ senior librarian Megan Glidden has been selected as an American Library Association Emerging Leader for the Class of 2019.

Kalispell man charged in Liberty Street stabbing

A Kalispell man is charged with stabbing another man during a Dec. 27 incident on Liberty Street.

Polson boys slide by Stevi in basketball

POLSON — Polson outscored Stevensville in all four quarters to claim a 66-45 Class A boys basketball victory on Friday evening at Salish Kootenai College.

Glacier girls knock off Bravettes

By KATIE BROWN

Glacier boys dominate Braves, 46-35

Glacier jumped out to a big early lead and never trailed, rolling over Flathead 46-35 in Western AA boys basketball action on Friday night at Glacier High School.

PHOTOS: Glacier sweeps crosstown

Photos from Glacier and Flathead’s crosstown boys’ and girls’ high school basketball games at Glacier High School on Friday. Glacier took home victories in both contests with the boys winning 46-35 and the girls, 32-24.

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- Brandi Nicole Nelson of Eureka has been named to Eastern Mennonite University’s dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester.

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- Brandi Nicole Nelson of Eureka has been named to Eastern Mennonite University’s dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester.

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- Brandi Nicole Nelson of Eureka has been named to Eastern Mennonite University’s dean’s list for the fall 2018 semester.

Two Polson residents involved in wreck die from heart attacks

Two Polson residents died of separate cardiac events involving a traffic crash Tuesday afternoon.

Patricia Ann Larson Witzel, 84

Patricia Ann Larson Witzel, 84, loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and a dear friend to many, passed away on Jan. 6, 2019, in Kalispell after a brief illness.

Coram woman charged with punching officer while in the tub

A Flathead County woman is accused of punching a deputy sheriff in the face during a recent incident in Coram.

Area communities receive state tourism grants

Several Northwest Montana communities will get a share of nearly $830,000 in state grants for tourism and recreation infrastructure and marketing project.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Board Governance Committee meets 10 a.m., superintendent’s office.

Weekend update

Animal Tracking Day

Neighbor: mail allegedly stolen since 2016

Kalispell Police Department received a call from a woman whose neighbor allegedly had been stealing her mail since 2016 when she moved; the caller has been missing property ever since. According to the woman, the nosy neighbor is also a purported stalker and harasser.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Board Governance Committee meets 10 a.m., superintendent’s office.

North Fork easement helps protect habitat

The valley and adjacent wildlands of the North Fork of the Flathead River still host a remarkably diverse variety of flora and fauna.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Board Governance Committee meets 10 a.m., superintendent’s office.

Whitefish splits with C-Falls in basketball

WHITEFISH – Lee Walburn scored 29 points as the Whitefish Bulldogs beat the Columbia Falls Wildcats 60-45 in Class A boys basketkball action at Whitefish High School.

Flathead at Glacier for crosstown basketball

If you are looking for a couple words to describe the crosstown basketball series for Flathead and Glacier, intense along with high emotions immediately come to mind.

Braves outlast Big Sky, 51-48

Up 35-18 at halftime, it looked like the Flathead boys basketball team would cruise to an easy win in its conference opener.

Flathead National Forest releases its new Forest Plan

The Flathead National Forest quietly released the final environmental impact statement for its new forest plan during the holiday season.

Theodor 'Theo' Wilhelm Ehrenberg, 92

Theodor “Theo” Wilhelm Ehrenberg, 92, peacefully passed away on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, at Beehive Homes in Columbia Falls.

Montana Republican proposes state give $8M for border wall

HELENA — A Republican lawmaker wants Montana to give more than $8 million to help build President Donald Trump’s proposed wall on the Mexican border. The state’s Democratic governor, who is exploring a run for president, on Thursday quickly derided the idea.

New Kalispell Regional CEO announced

A North Dakota health-care administrator who served two combat missions in Iraq with the U.S. National Guard will take the reins as the new president and chief executive officer of Kalispell Regional Healthcare. He will begin the job in early February, the hospital board of trustees said.

Weekly events

THURSDAY, JAN. 10

Letters to the editor Jan. 10

Thank you for an inspiring edition of the Daily Inter Lake on Christmas Eve. What a Christmas gift it was.

'Adriana Lecouvreur' showcases 18th century Paris

The 2018-2019 season of the Metropolitan Opera Live in HD series continues with Francesco Cilea’s opera “Adriana Lecouvreur” at 10:55 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 12, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Upcoming events

Wylie & The Wild West perform at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 18, at Polson High School Auditorium.

Glacier Symphony's 'Gershwin Gala' kicks off new year

Glacier Symphony rings in 2019 with an elegant “Gershwin Gala” featuring the music of the great American composer, George Gershwin, in two concerts at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. The program features a 45-piece orchestra under the direction of conductor John Zoltek with guest pianist Natalia Lauk.

Eagle Valley Ranch OK'd by Planning Board

The Kalispell Planning Board voted to recommend approval of a major new subdivision north of Kalispell during its Jan. 8 meeting.

You called, we have responded

On Wednesday we rolled out a new configuration for a few of our more popular features ­­— and it wasn’t exactly met with rave reviews. Honestly, it went over like a lead balloon. Dozens of readers took time to call or write to let us know that the puzzles were too cramped and the font size too small.

Chuck Haney's latest book focuses on Northwest Montana

Whitefish-based professional freelance photographer Chuck Haney is a self-described opportunist.

Polson artist illustrates popular 'Amelia Bedelia' books

Editor’s note: This article is excerpted from and with permission from the University of Montana’s fall 2018 Montanan magazine. For the complete article, log onto

Dancer doesn't get the point of no-parking zones

Kalispell Police Department responded to a report of at least two vehicles reportedly parked near a dance studio in an alleyway in a “no-parking zone,” potentially blocking emergency vehicles. When a man allegedly asked one of the drivers how long she would be parked there — the entitled woman said “she may dance for an hour, or she may dance all day.” Police pointed out to the drivers they could not block the alley for emergency vehicles.

Revised levy proposed for Evergreen Fire

Nine months after voters in the Evergreen Fire District rejected a tax levy to increase funding for Evergreen Fire Rescue, a new proposal has been developed.

Subdivision off Three Mile Drive moves forward

Kalispell City Council gave preliminary plat approval for Cottage Gardens subdivision at its Jan. 7 meeting.

Evergreen mixed-use subdivision tops planning agenda

A proposal to create a commercial and residential development south of Evergreen Junior High School tops the Flathead County Planning Board agenda tonight.

Bobby Meister, 73

Bobby Meister, known to friends as “Bob,” passed away on Jan. 5, 2019, at the age of 73, following a short, unexpected battle with cancer.

Mary Tombrink Harris, 88

Mary Margaret was born Nov. 28, 1930, to John Tombrink and Elizabeth Hodgson Tombrink in Kalispell.

Alexander Luna, 87

Alexander Luna of Lakeside died of a heart attack in the very early morning of Jan. 5, 2019. As the result of a mower accident a few years ago, he had been suffering from extreme back and leg pain that greatly affected his mobility.

Glacier bests 36 schools for Gonzaga speech win

Glacier High School Speech and Debate brought home the hardware from the Conway Classic at Gonzaga University for a second straight year.

UM posts fall semester dean's list

The following are students made the fall semester 2018 dean’s list or president’s 4.0 list at the University of Montana. Double asterisks after a name indicate the student earned a 4.0 grade point average. A single asterisk indicates a GPA greater than 3.5 but less than 4.0.

Nonprofit aims to create group home for trafficking victims

Hoping to start the first certified group home for former victims of sex trafficking in Montana, Constance Neumann, founder and executive director of Safe Haven, has less than two months left to raise the $435,000 still needed to purchase the desired house.

Glacier airport unaffected by shutdown, director says

Tuesday marked the 18th day of the government shutdown, and while paychecks for thousands of federal employees have halted, security employees at Glacier Park International Airport remain unaffected, officials said.

Woman wants ex removed for house cleaning

Kalispell Police Department received a request from a woman to remove her ex-husband from the house they owned together so she could clean it before it was listed to be sold. Dispatchers told the woman police would legally not be able to do this and spoke to the husband who said he would clean the home.

Timothy R. 'Aux' Auxier, 76

Timothy R. “Aux” Auxier, 76, passed away peacefully at his Kalispell home on Jan. 5, 2019.

Laurance 'Larry' Harness, 96

Laurance Lafe Harness, 96-year-old lifetime Flathead Valley resident, passed away Dec. 20, 2018, at the Whitefish Center in Whitefish.

Glacier girls roll over Eagles

Senior Raley Shirey scored a career-high 18 points as the Glacier Wolfpack hustled to a 56-35 victory over the Missoula Big Sky Eagles in Western AA girls basketball play at Glacier High School on Tuesday.

Wolfpack rallies in 4th to edge Big Sky

MISSOULA — Glacier used a big finish to slip by Missoula Big Sky 54-52 on Tuesday evening in Western AA boys basketball play.

Glacier wrestlers pin dual loss on Whitefish

WHITEFISH — Glacier used four pins and benefited from 30 points off forfeits to whip Whitefish 61-12 in a nonconference wrestling dual on Tuesday evening.

C-Falls, Flathead take first at Corvallis meet

Columbia Falls High School Speech and Debate shot to the top in Corvallis this weekend, finishing with 125 overall points.

Longtime wildlife biologist wraps up prolific career

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Wildlife Biologist Tim Thier has had a distinguished career working with animals and birds in the western United States, but when he approached a impromptu checkpoint manned by Mexican Federal Police in Chihuahua while searching for grizzly bears nearly 40 years ago, he wasn’t sure how long, or if, that career would last.

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- Flathead Electric Cooperative has scheduled a 15-minute disruption beginning at 10 a.m. today in the Swan Lake area, affecting members along Montana 83 south to Six Mile Creek and West Swan Shores Road.

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- Flathead Electric Cooperative has scheduled a 15-minute disruption beginning at 10 a.m. today in the Swan Lake area, affecting members along Montana 83 south to Six Mile Creek and West Swan Shores Road.

Furloughed federal workers volunteer at food bank

Barred from going to work during the ongoing federal government shutdown, a group of Glacier National Park employees have decided to put their time off to use by volunteering at the Flathead Food Bank today.

New plan proposed for Kalispell development

The Kalispell Planning Board will hold a public hearing tonight to consider revised plans for the first three phases of Eagle Valley Ranch, a proposed mixed-use development north of Kalispell.

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- Flathead Electric Cooperative has scheduled a 15-minute disruption beginning at 10 a.m. today in the Swan Lake area, affecting members along Montana 83 south to Six Mile Creek and West Swan Shores Road.

Sperry Chalet meeting 'indefinitely postponed'

Citing the ongoing shutdown of portions of the federal government, Glacier National Park has cancelled the meeting originally set for tonight in Kalispell about the ongoing rebuilding of Sperry Chalet.

Bad hair day gets out of control

We’ve all had bad hair days, but one man was so steamed about a recent haircut that he returned to the scene of the coiffure crime and told an employee he was going to burn down the place, according to a report from Kalispell Police Department.

Ski resort records second busiest day ever

Whitefish Mountain Resort recorded its second and third busiest days ever over the recent holiday week.

Snowmobiler dies in avalanche near Choteau; snow biker injured in Swan slide

A snowmobiler who died in an avalanche Jan. 5 near Choteau was not wearing an avalanche transceiver, according to information in a preliminary report from the Flathead Avalanche Center.

Public hearing for Kalispell tax district slated

Kalispell City Council holds its first meeting of 2019 on Monday.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Gateway Community Center, Kalispell. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 752-7266.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Gateway Community Center, Kalispell. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 752-7266.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Gateway Community Center, Kalispell. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 752-7266.

Whitefish council considers big apartment project

A plan to build seven apartment buildings on the former North Valley Hospital site tops an extensive public-hearing agenda at tonight’s Whitefish City Council’s meeting.

Art teacher creates 'haven for personal expression'

For some students, the high school art room is a haven for personal expression — “a place where you can come and be yourself,” said Whitefish High School art teacher Lonnie Collinsworth.

Pint glass injures employee's face

Someone told Kalispell Police Department a coworker was assaulted by a customer who had been asked to leave. When the customer ignored the employee, the employee tried to take the man’s drink away. It was then that the man went ballistic and reportedly threw the pint glass at the employee, hitting him in the face causing cuts and potentially knocking out some teeth. The suspect took off in a gray truck on U.S. 2.

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Siena Maria Steen, daughter of Robert and Priscilla Steen of Kalispell, was born Aug. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

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Siena Maria Steen, daughter of Robert and Priscilla Steen of Kalispell, was born Aug. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

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Siena Maria Steen, daughter of Robert and Priscilla Steen of Kalispell, was born Aug. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

Time to get to work in Helena

The 66th session of the Montana Legislature convenes Jan. 7 in Helena. Over the course of the next four months, our elected representatives will be tasked with taking on a bevy of pressing issues: funding for infrastructure, debating the merits of a local option sales tax, Gov. Steve Bullock’s preschool proposal, revamping Montana’s DUI laws, and of course — the $59 million gorilla in the room — the looming sunset of Montana’s Medicaid expansion program.

Road fine bill would improve public access

Last fall during the political season, everyone running for the Montana Legislature touted their credentials as being for public access.

Montanans deserve state-of-the-art health care

I appreciate Dr. Boharski’s thoughts (Daily Inter Lake, Dec. 9) on the high cost of health care and the changing local landscape. Being relatively new to medical practice in the Flathead Valley, I can only imagine what medical practice was like 25 years ago and can certainly understand the concerns of some who have watched it evolve into its current form.

Are we getting our money's worth with Medicaid expansion

In November, Montana’s voters rejected renewal of the Medicaid-expansion welfare program (hereinafter “MedEx”) consigning its fate to the Legislature in the 2019 session. Even though the subject may sound boring, taxpayers should pay close attention these next few months, since big money is at stake and the program disincentivizes work and self-sufficiency.

Mauling: A dramatic, but not defining, event

Injuries included a broken radius bone in his right arm, a dislocated right wrist, a fractured thumb, a broken fibula in his left leg, multiple ligament tears in his left ankle and knee, muscle tears and numerous puncture wounds from bites.

Man rescued after snow bike accident in Swan Valley

According to a call received by Flathead County 911, a 44-year-old man snow biking on the Bond Creek Trail, east of Swan Lake, fell off a cliff Saturday afternoon and may have suffered a broken leg. The Bigfork Fire Department was called to rendezvous with Two Bear Air at Swan Valley SAR building to take him to the hospital.

Letters to the editor Jan. 6

Dr. Michael Boharski recently wrote about the exorbitant cost of healthcare here in our valley and our country. A “Medicare for All” plan would alleviate this problem by guaranteeing that all Montanans receive high-quality health care they need regardless of their economic and social status.

Lawmakers predict Medicaid expansion will dominate session

Rep. Frank Garner, a retired Kalispell police chief, hopes to buckle up a tougher seat-belt law during the upcoming gathering in Helena of state lawmakers.

Kenneth John Pemberton, 57

Kenneth J. Pemberton passed away on Dec. 4, 2018, at Holy Family Hospital in Spokane, surrounded by his loving family.

Columbia Falls: the little city that could

I was paging through last week’s Hungry Horse News and was impressed by the number of stories that talked about the growth and development happening in Columbia Falls these days.

Judy Roose, 54

Judy Roose, 54, of Kalispell, died Jan. 2, 2019, in Kalispell.

Bigfork Inn New owners aim to preserve history, tradition

Since the Bigfork Inn came under new management in July 2018, the most visible change is the addition of black tablecloths in the dining room.

Whitefish carnival crowns Rossi as Duchess, Smith as Prime Minister

The 60th annual Whitefish Winter Carnival officially got underway Saturday with the crowning of the first round of royalty — the Duchess of Lark and Prime Minister — at the Merry Maker roast of Whitefish current events.

Glacier wrestlers second at Varsity Duals

RONAN — Glacier finished second after two days of wrestling action at the Ronan Varsity Duals on Saturday.

Flathead sixth at LeProwse Invitational wrestling

The Flathead wrestling team came in sixth at the Tom LeProwse Invitational in Bozeman on Saturday.

Swimmers back in action after break

After a lengthy break for the holidays, it was back to the pool for invitational action at The Summit on Saturday for Flathead Valley schools along with Missoula Big Sky, Hellgate and Sentinel.

Basketball Roundup Polson nips C-Falls; Deer Lodge trips Bigfork

COLUMBIA FALLS — Columbia Falls rallied in the late going, but fell three points short as Polson held on for a 47-44 Class A boys basketball victory on Saturday.

Salty magazines dropped off at C-Falls City Hall

Officers at the Columbia Falls Police Department were the recipients of a rather interesting gift — a black coat and a stack of Playboy magazines that were turned in at Columbia Falls City Hall. One officer said he would place the items in safekeeping, closing the case.

Kalispell man pleads guilty to choking girlfriend

A Kalispell man accused of choking his girlfriend and forcing her to perform a sexual act agreed to plead guilty to the crimes Thursday in Flathead County District Court.

Shooting, burglary suspect pleads not guilty

A Kalispell man who remains behind bars for his alleged involvement in a Nov. 29 shooting near Whitefish pleaded not guilty to the charges Thursday in Flathead County District Court.

Glacier boys fall in OT

The Glacier boys began the new year in agonizing fashion, falling 52-48 in overtime to Post Falls, Idaho, in thrilling nonference basketball action on Friday night at Glacier High School.

Glacier, Polson, C-Falls shine at Varsity Duals

RONAN – The Glacier wrestling team went 4-0 at the Ronan Varsity Duals on Friday to finish first in Pool 3 action.

Flathead, West tied for third at LeProwse Invitational

BOZEMAN — Flathead is tied with Billings West for third place after first-day action Friday at the Tom LeProwse Invitational wrestling tournament.

Flathead girls pull away to beat Whitefish

WHITEFISH — Flathead held Whitefish scoreless in the third period to pull away for a 39-21 nonconference girls basketball victory on Friday night at Whitefish High School.

Montana Artesian Water Co. County probe finds bottling plant is 'legal, non-conforming use'

Daily Inter Lake

Eldora Marie (Kinyon) 'Dodo' Rosling, 72

Eldora Marie (Kinyon) “Dodo” Rosling passed away following a recurrence of ovarian cancer at her home in St. Anthony, Minnesota, on Dec. 28, 2018. She was 72 years old.

Good luck, money go missing at casino

It wasn’t one man’s lucky day when money fell out of his coat pocket on the way to the bathroom at a casino. The man told Kalispell Police Department he withdrew five $20 bills from an ATM and put it in his pocket. He should probably consider it money flushed down the toilet when a casino employee reviewed surveillance footage and noted that 10 minutes after the cash hit the floor another man walked by and picked it up.

Flathead tops Glacier

By DAVID LESNICK

Hoop season resumes for Flathead, Glacier boys

For Flathead and Glacier, it’s been practice, practice, practice with a few games thrown in along the way.

Samson steps down as head football coach at Flathead

Flathead High School activities director Bryce Wilson announced in an email on Thursday that Kyle Samson has resigned as the school’s head football coach after five seasons.

Johnston nets 27, Loggers dominate Wildcats, 55-36

COLUMBIA FALLS — Ryggs Johnston scored 27 points for Libby as the Loggers took down Columbia Falls 55-36 on Thursday in a Northwest A boys basketball clash at Columbia Falls High School.

Kalispell man pleads guilty to negligent arson

A man charged in an arson that destroyed tens of thousands of dollars of merchandise at a Kalispell business in 2018 pleaded guilty in Flathead District Court to the offense.

Simple majorities would work well in Montana House

Soon 150 legislators, selected by their constituents, will meet in Montana’s capitol to represent the diverse interests of our state and to ensure all the voices of the people of Montana will be heard. Our challenges and opportunities will be unique to our state and its people.

Letters to the editor Dec. 31

With the latest IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) report I was again distressed over this big world problem. Yes, I can turn down the heat and take the bus, but my personal impact seems so small. Then I found a great solution.

FHS Theatre stages 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame'

Flathead High School’s Theatre Acting 3 class will present Victor Hugo’s famous story, “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,” on Wednesday and Thursday, Jan. 9 and 10.

Feat x Feet celebrates 22 years of performance

This month the Whitefish-based youth tap ensemble Feat x Feet celebrates 22 years of dancing and music.

Artist Wilderness program taking applications

The Artist Wilderness Connection program application portal opens Jan. 5. The program is open to all professional artists and writers. Two artists will be chosen to participate in the 2019 program. Collaborative groups will be considered. If you are applying as a collaborative group, all artists in the collaboration must submit separate, individual applications and explain the collaborative work in their letter of intent.

Hockaday Museum's People's Choice Awards announced

The Hockaday Museum of Art recently announced the winners of its 2018 Members Salon People’s Choice Awards. The works will be on exhibit through Jan. 12. First place was awarded $250; second, $100; and third, $50.

Keller Williams brings his talent to the Great Northern

Genre-hopping multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Keller Williams will bring his signature solo looping show to Great Northern Bar in Whitefish at 8 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 10.

17th annual event highlights four unique presentations

Beginning Sunday, Jan. 13, and continuing every other week through Feb. 24, the Museum at Central School in Kalispell presents four unique and engaging speakers.

Weekly events Jan. 3-10

THURSDAY, JAN. 3

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- Cholesterol screening and education, 7-10 a.m., and first Thursday of every month, The Summit, Kalispell. Includes triglycerides, glucose, cholesterol, HDL and LDL. Walk-in clinic; no preregistration required. Fast 8-12 hours prior and drink plenty of water. Cost $35; $31.50 for seniors. Call Kathy Prim, 751-4500.

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- Cholesterol screening and education, 7-10 a.m., and first Thursday of every month, The Summit, Kalispell. Includes triglycerides, glucose, cholesterol, HDL and LDL. Walk-in clinic; no preregistration required. Fast 8-12 hours prior and drink plenty of water. Cost $35; $31.50 for seniors. Call Kathy Prim, 751-4500.

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- Cholesterol screening and education, 7-10 a.m., and first Thursday of every month, The Summit, Kalispell. Includes triglycerides, glucose, cholesterol, HDL and LDL. Walk-in clinic; no preregistration required. Fast 8-12 hours prior and drink plenty of water. Cost $35; $31.50 for seniors. Call Kathy Prim, 751-4500.

County closer to decision on bottling plant

A long-awaited decision on whether the Montana Artesian Water Co.’s bottling facility in Creston is in violation of Egan Slough Zoning District regulations may be near.

Romania picks Kalispell man to lead 4-H program

Ben Frentsos of Kalispell is developing a 4-H youth program for an entire country.

South Fork bridge work scheduled in the spring to repair surface damage

The newly opened South Fork bridge across U.S. 2 in Hungry Horse will undergo repairs to the bridge deck next spring to repair light surface damage that occurred while concrete was setting.

Flathead coach Samson to join Montana Tech staff

Flathead High School’s head football coach Kyle Samson announced Thursday that he is leaving the program to join the coaching staff at Montana Tech in Butte.

Quen homicide charge dismissed

A charge of deliberate homicide against a Martin City man was dismissed Monday by Flathead County District Judge Heidi Ulbricht.

Couple makes scene at fitness center

Fitness center employees called the Kalispell Police Department out of safety concerns when a rough-looking couple came in who weren’t in any shape to work out. The pair were reportedly struggling with operating the fitness machines. If anything, the staggering woman had definitely committed a fashion crime, looking like she was ready for bed, dressed in pajama pants and carrying a pink blanket. The man was described as dirty and rough looking, like a “bum” or “vagrant.” Earlier, the woman allegedly yelled that she was “going to shoot the place up.” They moved along.

Delmar B. Granmo, 85

Delmar B. Granmo, 85, passed away peacefully at his Whitefish home on Dec. 27, 2018.

Letters to the editor Jan. 3

Thank God a group of Republican legislators have taken the initiative to rid Montana House of Representatives of a 30-year supermajority experiment that has contributed to hyper-partisanship disdained by most of Montana’s citizens. The Montana constitution defines only a few cases when a legislative supermajority vote is needed, for example, before spending trust funds, amending the constitution, or overriding a governor’s veto. Nowhere does the constitution suggest the Legislature should adopt supermajority rules that limit debate and centralize power in the hands of a few. Returning to a simple majority rule for bringing bills to the House floor, the same rule that is in effect in the state Senate, in no way undermines principles upon which our representative democracy was formed, but rather ensures that all voices are heard as the legislature conducts the people’s business.

Glacier entertains Flathead for crosstown mat dual

It’s been a rough go for the Glacier Wolfpack regarding the crosstown wrestling series the last few years.

Director switches roles in helping veterans

Following eight years of growth and development, the Kalispell Veteran Center recently bid farewell to its inaugural director, Dr. Jeff Heider, as he traded in his administrative title for the chance to return to face-to-face care for the veterans of the Flathead Valley.

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- Friendship Force meets for breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes Restaurant, Kalispell. Learn about unique travel experiences and opportunities. Call Priscilla, 756-9332.

Foundation hits $4 million fundraising goal for new ALERT helicopter

Kalispell Regional Healthcare Foundation has successfully raised the $4 million necessary to replace an aging helicopter for ALERT, the hospital’s nonprofit air ambulance service that transports more than 300 patients per year.

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- Friendship Force meets for breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes Restaurant, Kalispell. Learn about unique travel experiences and opportunities. Call Priscilla, 756-9332.

Brick-wielding man wanders into building

Someone called the Kalispell Police Department about a man carrying a brick while he wandered through a building. He was described as a man in his 30s wearing pajama pants and a sweatshirt. The caller said he wasn’t recognizable to him, but he was carrying a bucket of salt.

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- Friendship Force meets for breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes Restaurant, Kalispell. Learn about unique travel experiences and opportunities. Call Priscilla, 756-9332.

Emergency responders implore drivers to follow the law

Dale Wochnick drives a tow truck for Bolster’s Towing in Kalispell and he vividly remembers the close calls he and co-workers have had while working at vehicle wreck scenes in the Flathead Valley.

Lori A. (Kirby) Powell, 50

Lori A. (Kirby) Powell, 50, passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 29, 2018 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Delmar B. Granmo, 85

Delmar B. Granmo, 85, passed away peacefully at his Whitefish home on Dec. 27, 2018.

Soroptomists to host human trafficking awareness event

Soroptomist International of Whitefish, which aims to improve the lives of women and girls, is hosting a free workshop Tuesday, Jan. 8, in Kalispell, to provide law enforcement, educators, therapists and other professionals, as well as the public, with tools and strategies for eliminating commercial sexual exploitation.

Theodor 'Theo' Wilhelm Ehrenberg, 92

Theodor “Theo” Wilhelm Ehrenberg, 92, peacefully passed away on Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, at Beehive Homes in Columbia Falls.

U.S. 93 S. corridor workshop planned in Whitefish

The U.S. 93 South Corridor Plan Steering Committee and the city of Whitefish have scheduled a public visioning workshop from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8, at the Hampton Inn, 6340 U.S. 93 South in Whitefish. Snacks and refreshments will be provided.

Finalists named in Kalispell's search for new police chief

Kalispell is getting closer to selecting a new chief of police.

Man goes berserk over snow shoveling

Columbia Falls Police Department responded to a report of “a man going crazy shoveling snow” onto a neighbor’s doorstep. A woman locked herself inside the house after a man allegedly started yelling and cursing at her while she was cleaning her doorway.

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- First Day guided hike, Flathead Lake State Park-Wayfarers, Bigfork, 10 a.m. Open to all ages. Meet at the Flathead Lake Ranger Station and enjoy a 1- to 2-mile, moderate hike around the park. Call 837-3041.

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- First Day guided hike, Flathead Lake State Park-Wayfarers, Bigfork, 10 a.m. Open to all ages. Meet at the Flathead Lake Ranger Station and enjoy a 1- to 2-mile, moderate hike around the park. Call 837-3041.

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- First Day guided hike, Flathead Lake State Park-Wayfarers, Bigfork, 10 a.m. Open to all ages. Meet at the Flathead Lake Ranger Station and enjoy a 1- to 2-mile, moderate hike around the park. Call 837-3041.