Sunday, March 31
Scott O. Lyford, 61
Scott Lyford passed from this life to his permanent home in heaven in the late afternoon of March 20, 2019. He was surrounded by members of his family.
Carolyn Rae Wheaton, 75
Carolyn Rae Wheaton, 75, passed away peacefully due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease on Friday, March 22, 2019, at Rockwood Retirement Communities in Spokane surrounded by her children.
Helen Louise Hunt White, 93
Helen Louise Hunt White, 93, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2019 in Helena. She is the daughter of Howard Jasper Hunt and Tuni Louise Mattson Hunt. She is survived by her sister, Marjorie Field of Longview, Washington; her daughters, Mary Burns, Maureen White, Colleen Drake, and Patty White, all of Helena; her sons-in-law, James Burns and Curt Drake of Helena; and her grandchildren, Patrick Burns of Missoula, Sarah Burns of Fallbrook, California, Michael Drake of Chicago, Illinois, and Jonathan Drake of Helena. She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, James White; and her brothers, Matthew Hunt and David Hunt.
Elizabeth 'Betty' Helberg, 84
Elizabeth “Betty” Buzzas Helberg left us peacefully on March 14, 2019, at the age of 84.
The green agenda and government control
It’s getting colder out year by year, I told my astonished friend. On top of that, the Antarctic ice sheet is setting records for increase and even the Arctic ice sheet has grown significantly since it’s low point as measured in 2012. His reply of “ridiculous” had to be modified later after he reviewed a series of articles, I supplied him from credible sources (NOAA, NASA) confirming my statements.
Hellion on three wheels
A young boy climbing a neighbor’s tree was asked to get off the property, according to Kalispell Police logs. The kid initially refused, but then reportedly flipped off the neighbor and walked away, only to later return to the tree. The caller had the whole thing recorded on video and asked that police cite the child for trespassing. The boy eventually hopped on his trike and left.
Montana looks at legal sports betting
Add Montana to the long list of states considering legalized sports betting.
Weather or climate change?
In the last month, we’ve had three nights ranging from minus 18 to minus 22, so we can expect to hear this trumpeted by some as proof positive that global warming (climate change) is a hoax. But that of course is wrong and here’s why. What we experienced last week is nothing more than “weather,” experienced on one tiny part of Montana, on one really tiny part of the earth. Global warming, or climate change, deals with what’s happening with temperature, CO2, and weather planet-wide, and on a scale of multiple decades or centuries – not yesterday.
Letters to the editor March 31
Ten days into daylight saving time and our household is almost starting to feel like normal again.
Big Back Country Horsemen gathering planned
The organization helped ensure decades ago that horses and the people who ride and pack them would be welcome in federally designated wilderness areas such as the Bob Marshall and Great Bear.
Foundation led by Rollins woman tackles plastic 'epidemic' in Cambodia
About 5 p.m. every evening, the putrid smell of burning plastic penetrates the lungs of villagers in the community of Kampot in southern Cambodia.
Whitefish ranch seeks permit for vintage market
Flathead County Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing Tuesday to consider a conditional-use permit request for a “temporary use” that would allow a Whitefish area ranch to host a one-day vintage market event in July.
Joanne Eva Mordja, 64
Joanne Mordja (nee Lapoint) born Oct. 12, 1954, in Racine Wisconsin, passed away Sunday, March 24, 2019, at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, due to kidney transplant complications.
A quandary of biblical proportions
Forty years ago I was at an estate auction in Moorhead, Minnesota, buying an antique oak dresser when I spotted a large, leather-bound Bible for sale.
Time to get real about Medicaid expansion
For the last three months, legislators have heard from countless Montanans who are terrified that they and their families will lose their health care in June. They told us that Medicaid expansion allows them to afford their life-saving medication, or get the preventative care to find a tumor early enough to seek successful treatment. They are workers, full-time caregivers, veterans, students, seasonal employees, and parents.
Mixed martial-arts program an emotional, physical quest
A Kalispell Police detective and a construction worker grappled on a mat in a dark gym at 6 a.m. Thursday morning.
Medicaid expansion is socialism
Traditional Medicaid was created to lend a hand to our most vulnerable populations. Unfortunately, the governor, Democrat legislators, and more than a few Republican legislators are trying to prop up an entitlement program for the able-bodied, Medicaid expansion.
Richard A. Kuhl, 81
Richard A. Kuhl died on March 17, 2019, in Kalispell after several months battling amyloidosis.
Roger Louis Baker, 84
On Wednesday, March 27, 2019, Roger Louis Baker went to be with his Lord and Savior at the age of 84.
Grizzly council exemplifies how Montanans solve problems
Gov. Steve Bullock’s order creating a grizzly bear advisory council exemplifies how Montanans work together to solve the difficult issues around wildlife. The council is needed, creates an opportunity to bring Montanans together, and can help shape the future of managing an expanding population of this valued native wildlife species.
Bob Marshall foundation picks new director
A North Carolina man known for his wilderness preservation work in the Southern Appalachians has been hired as the new executive director of the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation.
Saturday, March 30
Whitefish Boy Scout Troop recruiting members, leaders
Whitefish Boy Scout Troop 1917 is looking for new scouts and adult leaders to assist them in their various camping and service projects.
Comment on Canyon short-term rental rules
Flathead County residents have until Wednesday at 5 p.m. to submit written protests to the Flathead County commissioners’ resolution of intention to amend three portions of the text of the Canyon Area Land Use Regulatory System to create regulations for short-term, or vacation rentals.
It's spring, and road rage is in full bloom
Spring-like weather apparently is bringing out the worst in local motorists, with several different road-rage episodes reported to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Department.
Local middle-schoolers win at state science fair
Four local middle school students came home from the Montana science fair with first-, second- and third-place grand awards.
Jill B. Church, 73
Jill B. Church, 73, passed away on March 7, 2019, due to COPD and flu, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Martin City man pleads guilty to federal drug charge
A Martin City man who dodged a homicide charge for allegedly shooting a man in Hungry Horse will end up in prison on federal drug charges.
Friday, March 29
Johnston, Winslow, Kehr, Whitcomb co-MVPs of Northwestern A hoops
Libby’s Ryggs Johnston and Jayden Winslow, Ryley Kehr of Columbia Falls and Tyree Whitcomb of Browning are the co-Most Valuable Players for Northwestern A basketball for the 2018-19 season.
Judge overturns bottling plant's water permit
A Montana judge has overturned the Montana Department of Natural Resource and Conservation’s decision last year to grant a water-use permit to a long-disputed bottling plant in Creston.
Woman found drinking and driving - inside a store
A woman, possibly in her 50s, purportedly made herself quite comfortable in a Ninth Street store when she was spotted using a motorized cart and drinking. A manager told Columbia Falls Police Department they did not wish to pursue the wine theft.
Flathead High to review attendance rules
Flathead High School will review its attendance policy this spring.
Rural fire district boards have vacancies
Flathead County Commissioners are searching for people interested in serving on rural fire district boards for terms ranging from one to three years.
Kalispell man charged with assault back in jail
A Kalispell man accused of felony assault is back in jail after allegedly testing positive for methamphetamine and violating the terms of his release.
Lawmakers consider future of bison
Debates are intensifying at the Montana Legislature over the state’s management of North America’s largest land mammal: the American bison.
Weekend update
Canine Expo
Man facing drug charges accused of felony assault
A Kalispell man charged with possessing methamphetamine is back behind bars following accusations he broke a man’s face during a confrontation a day after he was released from jail.
Family stresses importance of early cancer screening
Donna Woodworth of Trout Creek was 25 years old when her mother, who had battled with cancer all her life, pushed her to get tested for the disease — a process that cued the start of a 30-year grapple to stay ahead of the cancer curve by way of consistent testing.
Thursday, March 28
Sullivan, Timm step away from coaching at Glacier
Change is in the air for the Glacier High School girls basketball team and the Glacier and Flathead High School joint swim teams.
Man who died in Lake McDonald identified
A missing Arizona man whose body was recovered from Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park on Tuesday has been identified.
Flathead Lake refill launches early due to low snowpack
The tribal-owned corporation managing the former Kerr Dam hydroelectric project reported Wednesday it started refilling Flathead Lake on March 10, more than one month ahead of schedule.
Flathead plays host to big summer events
When it comes to big, crowd-pleasing events, the hits just seem to keep on coming for the Flathead Valley.
Bears begin emerging from hibernation
They’re back.
Letters to the editor March 28
The Montana Legislature has finished 60 days of its 90 day session. The following are some Senate revenue bills that have passed the Senate recently and are on their way to the House for their approval.
Wednesday, March 27
Iraq war hero's family accepts Medal of Honor from Trump
WASHINGTON (AP) — The son of an Army staff sergeant awarded a posthumous Medal of Honor by President Donald Trump on Wednesday said he wants his father to be remembered as the best parent and best soldier anyone could ever ask for.
Spring plowing begins in Glacier
Glacier National Park’s annual rite of spring gets underway this week and next — the clearing of its roads of winter snows.
Vincent Louis 'Vince' Grillo, 83
Vincent Louis “Vince” Grillo, 83, of Bigfork, passed away in the comfort of his own home surrounded by his family on March 16, 2019.
James Mitchell Long, 81
James Mitchell Long, 81, of Kalispell, died March 23, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
FVCC symposium to share inspirational stories
Students studying communications at Flathead Valley Community College will brave the podium to share their personal stories of survival for this year’s Many Voices Symposium on Tuesday, April 9.
Spring load limits in place for Flathead County
Spring load limits for trucks went into effect Monday after the Flathead County commissioners approved the Road and Bridge Department’s recommended restrictions.
Tester cites need for technology, manpower at southern border
During a call to the press on Tuesday, Montana Democratic Sen. Jon Tester divulged details from a recent trip he took to the United States-Mexico border where he visited various ports of entry, local farms and an immigration detention facility in Texas.
Whitefish foundation accepting grant applications
Whitefish Community Foundation is currently accepting grant applications for the 2019 spring Community Grant Program, which is open to 501(c)(3) nonprofit charities located in Flathead County that are not participating in the 2019 Great Fish Community Challenge.
Kenneth Eugene Hardman, 92
Kenneth Eugene Hardman, 92, passed away on Wednesday, March 20, 2019, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish.
Laurence 'Larry' E. Redfield, 73
Laurence “Larry” E. Redfield, 73, passed away on March 22, 2019, at Renaissance Assisted Living in Kalispell.
Kenneth V. Garfield, 74
Kenneth V. Garfield, 74, passed away on March 17, 2019, in Kalispell.
Daniel Edward Harmon, 77
Daniel Edward Harmon, 77, died unexpectedly on March 16, 2019, near his home in Kila, while doing what he loved. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, neighbor and friend.
Donald L. Lewis, 86
Donald L. Lewis, 86, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Saturday, March 23, 2019, at Whitefish Center.
Interactive exhibit a precursor to permanent facility
Next month marks the opening of the Glacier Children’s Museum first established exhibit in Kalispell as the Museum at Central School hosts the six-month educational display centered on the effects of fire on the Flathead.
Jeanne (Hatten) O'Neil, 78
Jeanne (Hatten) O’Neil of Columbia Falls, 78, passed away into God’s loving arms on March 19, 2019, in the presence of her husband, Jerry O’Neil. Jerry’s children were blessed to adopt her into their family on Sept. 6, 2000, when she and Jerry were married in Dallas, Texas.
Suzanne Hazel Hoskins Sullivan, 82
Suzanne Hazel Hoskins Sullivan, 82, departed this life on March 21, 2019, in Kalispell.
Local schools highlight needs, successes
Flathead Valley Community College and Kalispell Public Schools hit the high points on programs and funding at the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon Tuesday.
Tuesday, March 26
Munson assumes head duties to coach Bigfork football
Patrick Munson, who has high school head coaching experience at Fort Benton and Deer Lodge, is the new head football coach at Bigfork High School.
Body of missing Arizona man recovered from Lake McDonald
The body of a missing Arizona man was recovered Tuesday from the depths of Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park.
Kalispell man sentenced for sexually explicit video of minor
A Kalispell man who was convicted of creating a sexually explicit video of a minor girl was sentenced recently to the minimum mandatory 15 years in prison, 10 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $3,000 restitution, according to U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme.
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- Montana Department of Transportation is striping North Meridian Road in Kalispell today, from West Idaho Street to U.S. 93, weather permitting. Expect lane shifts and flaggers.
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- Montana Department of Transportation is striping North Meridian Road in Kalispell today, from West Idaho Street to U.S. 93, weather permitting. Expect lane shifts and flaggers.
Suspicious 'things' lurking in the trees
A woman on Boxcar Way in Coram told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office she found some suspicious things in the trees that border her property that she didn’t put there. It wasn’t clear what exactly the “things” were.
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Annie Frownfelter, daughter of Daniel and Destiny Frownfelter of Kalispell, was born Feb. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
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- Montana Department of Transportation is striping North Meridian Road in Kalispell today, from West Idaho Street to U.S. 93, weather permitting. Expect lane shifts and flaggers.
Stillwater students hone skills to create housing model
Another business has tapped into the skills of high school students in Kalispell.
Man sentenced in Flathead Co. dies in state prison
A 66-year-old man who was sentenced in Flathead County 21 years ago died Saturday at Montana State Prison in Deer Lodge of an apparent suicide.
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Annie Frownfelter, daughter of Daniel and Destiny Frownfelter of Kalispell, was born Feb. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
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Annie Frownfelter, daughter of Daniel and Destiny Frownfelter of Kalispell, was born Feb. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kalispell elementary school district boundaries adjusted
The Kalispell Public Schools board of trustees last week approved minor changes to the elementary district boundaries that may impact 46 students and potentially another 41 students who attend from out-of-district for the 2019-20 school year.
Kalispell serviceman admits child sexual exploitation
A former U.S. Air Force service member from Kalispell has admitted to charges accusing him of enticing minor boys in Montana he met online into sending him sexually explicit images of themselves, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Monday, March 25
Luther Gerhard Wachholz, 89
Luther Gerhard Wachholz of Kalispell, son of Arthur R. Wachholz and Minnie Benson, was born on July 2, 1929, in Saint Paul, Minnesota.
Shirley Schmidt, 80
Shirley Schmidt passed away at her home in Whitefish on March 21, 2019.
Couple creates a home for those with Alzheimer's and dementia
Barry and Billie Jo Melchior, owners of BeeHive Kalispell memory-care facility, take every opportunity to offer a warm greeting to each resident.
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- Flathead County Water and Sewer District-Evergreen special board meeting 7 a.m., District Office, 130 Nicholson Drive.
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- Flathead County Water and Sewer District-Evergreen special board meeting 7 a.m., District Office, 130 Nicholson Drive.
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- Flathead County Water and Sewer District-Evergreen special board meeting 7 a.m., District Office, 130 Nicholson Drive.
Man gets grabby with people's drinks
Someone wanted Kalispell Police Department to remove a man from a bar who was refusing to leave after he was asked when he was seen grabbing other people’s drinks.
Sunday, March 24
Don Radabah 77
Don was born at a midwife’s house in Kalispell to Frank and Ester.
Flores and Leisinger
Chick and Pam Leisinger of Bigfork announce the engagement of their son, C.R. Leisinger, to Tonya Flores, daughter of Hector and Mary Flores of Green River, Wyoming.
Montana range war?
The Montana Legislature has gone all in on big government and socialism with HJR 28. American Prairie Reserve has legally acquired federal grazing leases. The Montana Legislature is proposing to instruct the BLM to use “science to dictate” grazing practices on lands owned by the U.S. government and managed by Montana ranchers and the American Prairie Reserve. American Prairie Reserve and BLM have used science to study the grazing. The intent is to keep native bison off of native pasture in Montana. Republicans in the Montana Legislature have used no science or common sense in drafting HJR 28.
Apply now for Kalispell's sidewalk cost-sharing program
The city of Kalispell’s successful 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program is taking applicants now that the snow is melting and the spring construction season is just weeks away.
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- Trinity Lutheran School and Missoula Children’s Theatre present “The Secret Garden,” 2 p.m., 495 Fifth Ave. WN, Kalispell. Suggested donation at the door benefits music program. Call 257-6716.
Kalispell ROTC cadet alleged to have white supremacist ties
A young man from Kalispell has quit his ROTC program at Montana State University in Bozeman amid an investigation by the United States military into allegations of his potential connections to a white nationalist organization known as Identity Evropa.
Jack L. Creek, 90
Jack L. Creek, 90, passed away at his home on March 18, 2019, after a short illness.
Sarah Elizabeth Allison, 42
Sarah Elizabeth Allison, 42, of Columbia Falls, passed away peacefully at her home on March 4, 2019.
Boyfriend's pickup takes brunt of woman's anger
A woman driving a black SUV was seen chasing a man in a white pickup. The man told police his girlfriend rammed into his pickup and that “she is going crazy.”
Liberal Democrats and the 'Green New Deal'
As a conservative, I am used to liberal Democrats accusing me, or the people I vote for as: sexist, bigoted, misogynist, racist, xenophobe, homophobe, climate denier, hater and dumb. I admit, I don’t know what some of those big words mean, but I never thought, until now, that they were right about me being dumb.
Project adds affordable housing in C-Falls
Columbia Falls City Manager Susan Nicosia is happy the city has an experienced partner helping to boost rental opportunities.
Trudy Carol King Evenson, 70
Trudy Carol King Evenson passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2019.
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- Trinity Lutheran School and Missoula Children’s Theatre present “The Secret Garden,” 2 p.m., 495 Fifth Ave. WN, Kalispell. Suggested donation at the door benefits music program. Call 257-6716.
Juanita F. (Patton) Kinniburgh, 80
On March 12, 2019, beloved mom and grandmother Juanita F. (Patton) Kinniburgh went to heaven to be with her Heavenly Father. Juanita Kinniburgh was born in Kansas and, at an early age, moved to Norwalk, California. While living in California, she met a Montanan, Dale Kinniburgh, who was serving in the Marines. Shortly after marrying, Dale and Juanita moved to the Flathead Valley where they raised their family.
No headline
- Trinity Lutheran School and Missoula Children’s Theatre present “The Secret Garden,” 2 p.m., 495 Fifth Ave. WN, Kalispell. Suggested donation at the door benefits music program. Call 257-6716.
Bipartisan bills take aim at aquatic invaders
The prospect of an aquatic mussel invasion has drawn deep concern from Montana policy-makers for years, and for good reason.
Charles 'Charlie' Arnold, 60
Charles Wesley Arnold died suddenly, March 12, 2019, in Libby.
Daniel Edward Harmon, 77
Daniel Edward Harmon, 77, passed away on Saturday, March 16, 2019, in Kila.
Huge summer powwow planned at fairgrounds
Bruce Grant of Havre said when he was 15 years old, he was given a vision during a tribal Sun Dance of exactly what Herd Bull, or how he is known to the powwow circle, would look, what he would stand for, and what he would accomplish.
Bad Rock Settlement Museum showcases bygone era
Fate propelled Stu Sorensen into the grip of the wild Rockies more than 100 years late.
Letters to the editor March 24
I was surprised and, yes I’ll admit it, disturbed by Mr. Merchant’s belief of what public education was for. Things like “creating a yearning in children to be in school so they may enjoy the acceptance and approval of their classmates and teachers.” And “the whole point of public education is to enable kids to accept and get along with each other.”
Polson museum building new military barracks
The Miracle of America Museum in Polson recently inherited a building that is now in the process of being recreated as a World War II U.S. Army Air Corps barracks.
Gary Reed McCrummen, 70
Gary Reed McCrummen, 70, passed away Sunday, March 10, 2019, in Hayden, Idaho.
Positions critical to maintaining services
At the Department of Public Health and Human Services, we are committed to providing direct services to Montanans that they rely on for their health and livelihoods. That’s why it’s disappointing to see Reps. Matt Regier and Carl Glimm imply in their March 18 editorial that vacant DPHHS FTEs must not be necessary. And it’s especially disappointing because the positions that have been left open for over a year are a direct result of managing complex budgetary pressures and managing finite resources.
Saturday, March 23
Polson's McGuinness, Ellis 4-0 in net play
POLSON — The Polson girls split while the Polson boys lost twice in prep tennis Saturday.
Snow start for spring sports
By DAVID LESNICK
Columbia Falls Special Olympics athlete wins at World Games
Special Olympics Montana athlete Sylvester Vermillion II of Columbia Falls returns home today with four medals — two gold and two silver — he won during the 2019 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates
Homicide suspect was ex-girlfriend, mother of victim's child
The Polson woman accused of murdering Thompson Falls resident Matthew George LaFriniere in May 2018 was LaFriniere’s ex-girlfriend and had a child with him, according to charging documents filed this week in Sanders County District Court.
Shopper uses 'five finger discount' for chain saw
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a man who claimed to be from Washington state, running out of a store in Columbia Falls with a $1,000 chain saw. According to a store employee, the man entered the store claiming he was searching for goat feed before grabbing the chain saw and making his escape.
FVCC student earns esteemed academic award
Flathead Valley Community College student Isaac Neumann has been named a 2019 New Century Workforce Pathway Scholar. Neumann was selected for the esteemed award based on his academic accomplishments and leadership activities and how he extends his intellectual talents beyond the classroom.
Interest high in proposed changes to benefit Lincoln Co., state
Lincoln County residents nearly filled the conference room at the Red Lion Hotel in Kalispell — joined by other parties from around the Columbia River Basin and a retinue of Montana legislators — for a town hall meeting to talk about changes to the 1961 Columbia River Treaty that would benefit Lincoln County and Montana.
Friday, March 22
Sheriff's Office warns of Trooper Palmer donation scams
Family members of Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Wade Palmer are facing an added burden to their grief as they watch their loved one fight to survive. One week after Palmer was critically wounded by gunfire near Missoula, scammers have begun attempting to deceive people seeking to help Palmer and his family.
Snowboarder in closed area triggers large avalanche on Big Mountain
A “dangerously large” avalanche was trigger by a snowboarder in a closed area within the boundaries of Whitefish Mountain Resort on Thursday.
Boxer tired of taking unwanted punches
Columbia Falls Police Department responded to an assault on Ninth Street where someone reportedly was jumped. The person refused medical and said he was a boxer so he “knows how to take a punch,” however, was “tired of this happening.”
Refurbished Salvation Army Thrift Store to reopen
The Salvation Army in Kalispell will have a grand reopening beginning at noon today.
Libby Superfund team goes to Helena to discuss cleanup
The Libby Asbestos Superfund Advisory Team will meet at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, in Helena at the Montana Department of Environmental Quality Metcalf Building, 1520 E. Sixth Ave., Room 111. Attendees may also participate remotely by phone and online.
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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.
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- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.
Indiana grandma wins Whitefish Dream Home
HGTV this week announced the winner of its 2019 Dream Home grand prize package, located in Whitefish and valued at over $2.3 million.
Study: Flathead among healthiest counties
Flathead County ranked high on a list of healthiest counties in Montana, according to a study released Tuesday titled County Health Rankings and Roadmaps — a report compiled for the purpose of providing snapshot health comparisons between counties in every state for 2019.
No headline
- Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.
Crown guitar festival moves to Bozeman this year
The Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation’s popular workshop and festival will take a hiatus from its Bigfork location for 2019, with plans to return in 2020.
Thursday, March 21
Kalispell architectural committee has openings
Those with an interest in the community design and character of the city of Kalispell and have experience in architectural construction, development or design are invited to apply for the city of Kalispell Architectural Review Committee.
Truck sale haunts man years later
A man on Helena Flats Road told Flathead County Sheriff’s Office he sold his truck years ago and the person never registered it in their name and he was recently contacted by someone stating he needed to pick the vehicle up or pay fines. The man allegedly picked up the truck and then three men showed up at his house wanting it. He thought the men had some sort of relation to the person he originally sold it to.
Joyful homecoming for 495th troops
There were lots of cheers, tears and hugs as the Montana National Guard 495th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion arrived back in the Flathead Valley late Saturday night after a nine-month deployment in Afghanistan.
Tribes rekindle push for federal trust ownership
A visitor to the National Bison Range near Moiese might someday enjoy a deeper and more holistic understanding of the bison, the land and the bison’s cultural context.
Interfaith clergy respond to New Zealand mosque attacks
Fear, grief, loss, pain and anger converge in our hearts at the murder of 50 innocent prayerful people, and the injury of 50 more, who were gathered in two sacred Muslim houses of prayer in Christchurch, New Zealand. The loss of life comes with the devastating loss of human dignity at the hands of an avowed white nationalist, a white supremacist and racist, hate-filled individual.
Christopher Sean David, 18
On Saturday, March 16, 2019, our beloved Christopher Sean David passed from this life surrounded by his family at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Canine Extravaganza lets dogs have their day
Flathead Valley dogs will have their day on March 30 at the first Canine Expo Extravaganza in Kalispell.
Gene F. Birky, 79
Gene F. Birky went to be with his Lord and Savior March 12, 2019. After a lengthy illness, he passed away in Anchorage, Alaska, with both of his sons and daughters-in-law by his side.
House Minority Leader calls for bipartisian solutions
We’re halfway through the 2019 Legislative Session, and it seems like the first 45 days have gone by in a flash.
Letters to the editor March 21
Having completed my regular Thursday “senior discount day” grocery shopping at Harvest Foods in Bigfork, I turned left onto Montana 35. The 35 mph speed limit makes merging onto the highway relatively easy. As I exited, I saw across the road and a bit to the north, a car leaving the VFW also heading south onto Montana 35. Judging that I had plenty of room, I quickly pulled out and, in deliberate respect to the other driver, quickly accelerated my Sienna minivan to the 35 mph limit.
Wednesday, March 20
Weekend Spartan warrior
By DAVID LESNICK
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- Kalispell Public Schools Policy and Communications Committee meets 8:30 a.m. superintendent’s office.
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- Kalispell Public Schools Policy and Communications Committee meets 8:30 a.m. superintendent’s office.
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- Kalispell Public Schools Policy and Communications Committee meets 8:30 a.m. superintendent’s office.
Woman charged with murder of T-Falls man
The Sanders County Sheriff’s Office on Wednesday announced the arrest of a Polson woman charged with the murder of Matthew George LaFriniere of Thompson Falls, who was killed nearly one year ago.
Court puts temporary hold on two Flathead Forest timber projects
Four environmental groups harvested a favorable ruling last week when the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit granted an emergency injunction that temporarily halts a Swan Valley logging project.
Selma Wiedmeier, 88
Selma Wiedmeier, 88 years old, passed on March 11, 2019, at her home in Ava, Missouri, with her loving family by her side.
Report highlights county-by-county Medicaid benefits
The nonprofit Montana Budget and Policy Center released a report last week detailing a county-by-county breakdown of the benefits of Montana’s Medicaid expansion program, which is slated to sunset in mere months.
Students honored at science, engineering fair
Local students in grades fifth through seventh garnered top awards at the Montana Tech Regional Science and Engineering fair held March 12 in Butte.
Andrew Joel 'AJ' Tressel, 34
Andrew Joel “AJ” Tressel, 34, passed away on Monday, March 11, 2019, at his home in Cut Bank.
Bigfork textile artist Best in Show at statewide business event
Ladybug’s Cabin, a textile art business based in Bigfork, captured the Best in Show Overall award at last weekend’s Made in Montana Tradeshow in Helena.
Local battle-ax rains on town's parade
A woman asked Kalispell Police Department wanting to know who to complain to about vehicles reportedly blocking residential driveways and blaring music during parades. The woman crabbed to an officer she allegedly faulted for why cars park in her driveway during parades. The officer suggested she call police if she was blocked in and the cars would be cited and towed if they violated parking codes. She proceeded to purportedly advise the officer that she would call her attorney, the police chief, the mayor and the city manager.
LaVerne (Bruyer) Fredenberg, 85
LaVerne E. Bruyer was born April 4, 1933, in her grandmother Bauer’s house on Whitefish Stage. She was the oldest child of Ben Bruyer and Erma (Bauer) Bruyer, both of whom were born in the Flathead to pioneer families north of Kalispell.
Tuesday, March 19
Local students score well in regional math contest
About 350 students from 14 schools picked up pencils and hit the calculators to compete in the Northwest regional Montana Council of Teachers of Mathematics math contest on March 12.
Lawmakers consider legalized sports gambling
HELENA — A Montana legislative committee heard testimony Tuesday on a bill to legalize betting on college and professional sporting events as long as it’s done in bars with full liquor licenses.
Montana to create grizzly management council
Montana is forming a group that will discuss grizzly bear management, conservation and recovery in the Northern Rockies.
Marion firefighter ID'd as victim in Yaak vehicle accident
A Marion woman killed in a motor vehicle accident on Sunday has been identified as 44-year-old Tiffany Hamdan, according to Marion Fire District Chief Katie Mast.
Projects spruce up Kalispell schools
With the exception of exterior work such as siding and landscaping, the majority of construction is finished at Elrod, Russell and Peterson elementary schools while progress continues on Flathead High School, Linderman Education Center and the H.E. Robinson Vocational Agriculture Center.
Kalispell, Libby Shopkos to close as chain shuts doors
ASHWAUBENON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin-based retail chain Shopko Stores plans to close its remaining 120 department stores by mid-June.
James 'Jim' E. Baker, 78
James ”Jim” E. Baker, 78, of Polson, passed away at Kalispell Regional Hospital in Kalispell on March 14, 2019.
VA officer warns of scheme
A local Veterans Services official is cautioning veterans and their families that for-profit companies cropping up across the country are charging hefty prices for services that are offered for free through the government.
Lawmakers consider aquatic protections
HELENA — A prolific alien organism is closing in on Montana’s ecosystem and could have dire consequences for food production, outdoor recreation and the economy if it crosses the state’s borders.
New electric, phone lines proposed for Kelly's Camp
Glacier National Park is proposing to extend electric and replace telephone services to the Kelly’s Camp community.
Woman in Yaak trapped under vehicle, dies
A woman died after becoming trapped under a vehicle at a private residence in Yaak early Sunday morning.
RoseMarie Iverson, 87
RoseMarie Iverson, 87 years young, passed away on March 15, 2019, at inpatient hospice at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. She went to the arms of her dear savior, Jesus Christ.
DAYBOOK
TUESDAY
Monday, March 18
PHOTOS: Senior's Ball at Immanuel Lutheran
The Senior’s Ball at the Immanuel Skilled Care Center at Immanuel Lutheran Communities in Kalispell on Friday.
Kalispell on track to OK infrastructure improvements
The Kalispell City Council agenda at tonight’s regular meeting focuses on infrastructure projects for 2019.
Man's karma in question after theft
A man possibly jonesing for alternative medicine was spotted by a clerk who told Kalispell Police Department he attempted to steal essential oils and beet root powder.
Daybook
MONDAY
Welcome home 495th returns from deployment to Afghanistan
The 495th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion is home again. Sixty-seven soldiers arrived at the Glacier Jet Center late Saturday night to cheers and tears, and hugs from family and gathered loved ones.
Letters to the editor March 18
With many years as Flathead Electric Coop Trustee and as Board President, Doug Grob’s service to our community is well known. But many may not be aware of the reputation he has earned at the regional level as a thoughtful and respected advocate for our utility.
Whitefish eyes upgrades to City Beach parking, sewer station
Improvements at Whitefish Lake City Beach are in the works, with the Whitefish City Council on track to approve more than $368,000 in parking-lot and life-station improvements at tonight’s meeting.
Sunday, March 17
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Shelby Rose Rardon, daughter of Kynan and Danielle Rardon of Whitefish, was born Feb. 3 at North Valley Hospital.
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Shelby Rose Rardon, daughter of Kynan and Danielle Rardon of Whitefish, was born Feb. 3 at North Valley Hospital.
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Shelby Rose Rardon, daughter of Kynan and Danielle Rardon of Whitefish, was born Feb. 3 at North Valley Hospital.
Gerene Clark Little, 86
Gerene Clark Little has passed from our worldly sphere (March 16, the day of her mother’s birth). Her abundant energy, creative talent and bold ventures touched all the lives of those fortunate enough to know her – friends and family alike. Gerene was an icon in the Flathead valley having lived here nearly her entire life. She was lucky to have lived at all. Born on Dec. 23, 1933 in Columbia Missouri to Eloise and Clifton C. Clark (who founded the Coca-Cola Bottling Company in Kalispell in 1935), she came in to this world with a potentially terminal heart defect – a valve that would not close. As a child, she could not run, play, or get excited. At the age of 11, however, her parents took her to the Mayo clinic in New York for an experimental open-heart procedure that gave her new life and it lasted far longer than the doctor who performed the procedure could have dreamt (he was flabbergasted to see her upon his retirement).
Patti Sue (Crow) Koski 61
Patti Sue Koski passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 10, 2019, at Heritage Place in Kalispell due to kidney failure.
Letters to the editor March 17
In 2008, Obama declared that we are going to have to fundamentally transform America — our conversation and our history. Political correctness was rapidly being presented as quickly as social justice warriors were popping up everywhere. Our media, Hollywood, our institutions of learning, and some large corporations, were going to “correct” what they felt were the true crimes of our past and present. They believe our nation was founded by imperialists and racists. These same groups never mention that our founders helped establish the greatest nation of freedom for the individual man the world has ever seen.
Herding calls part of my milk-maid heritage
I came across a YouTube video last week about “kulning,” the ancient Swedish herding calls used by women centuries ago to call the cattle back home to the farm in the evenings.
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Columbia Falls Women’s Connection will host a Bunco fundraising party from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 30, at the North Valley Hospital Community Room in Columbia Falls.
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The Bigfork Chamber of Commerce is offering “Social Media 101,” a free workshop on social media marketing strategies and platforms for Chamber members on March 21 from 4 to 5 p.m. at Montana Bonfire.
Mary Jane Kurth, 84
On Friday March 8, 2019, Mary Jane Kurth, loving and devoted mother of five children and nine grandchildren, passed away peacefully in her home overlooking the Bigfork Bay and Swan Mountain Range.
John H. 'Jack' Garlitz, 78
John H. “Jack” Garlitz passed peacefully March 12, 2019, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Music festival founder has long career in event production
Johnny Shockey is doing something that most music fans can only dream of — bringing together some of his favorite nationally known singers and bands to play for two days in his own backyard.
Fay A. Gettig, 81
Fay A. Gettig went home to be with the Lord on March 14, 2019, peacefully, at Welcov Assisted Living.
Family turns restaurant into community hub
Cody Siderius took over as manager of Blaine Creek Grill in Creston the week before Valentine’s Day.
Time to address the decline of Montana's rural areas
It’s often said that Montana is like a small town with long streets. Montanans may be separated by hundreds of miles but it’s amazing how many mutual friends you find you have after talking with someone for five minutes in this giant small town.
Lake stewards compare notes, talk climate change
Limnologist Jim Elser teased the water quality crowd assembled Thursday at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake by playfully declaring that Flathead Lake is the region’s best and most important lake.
Most expensive double espresso ever
A man cruising around on a 10-speed attempted to use a fake $100 bill at a coffee shop, according to Kalispell Police Department logs. Police checked out surveillance footage and the man was arrested and cited.
Compact opponents aim to increase federal control of Montana waters
The recent proposal made by opponents of the CSKT Water Compact seeks to replace the long-negotiated agreement with a one-sided proposal that is illegal, illegitimate, and unconstitutional. While being peddled as “a people’s compact” or “the mending fences act,” this proposal is an attempt to give the federal government greater control over Montana’s valuable water resources, while disregarding the constitutional authority of Montana’s popularly elected Legislature.
Bill takes aim at foreign 'dark money'
A bill has been introduced to the Montana Legislature that would ban spending and contributions in state elections by foreign entities. Missoula Democrat Sen. Nate McConnell is the sponsor of the bill that is being backed by Gov. Steve Bullock.
Seniors are still playing catch-up after cuts
However, with little fanfare, HB 17 passed the Legislature by overwhelming majorities, with no “no” votes being cast in the House and only four “no” votes in the Senate. The governor signed the bill into law. It was the most significant piece of legislation for seniors passed by the 2017 session. It came to the Legislature from the Children, Families Health and Human Services Interim Committee which had studied issues associated with the increasing number of Montana families living with the devastating impacts of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
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Columbia Falls Women’s Connection will host a Bunco fundraising party from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 30, at the North Valley Hospital Community Room in Columbia Falls.
Local microgreens farmers offer a harvest of nutrition in tiny packages
Local microgreens growers have come up with innovative ways to use their product.
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The Bigfork Chamber of Commerce is offering “Social Media 101,” a free workshop on social media marketing strategies and platforms for Chamber members on March 21 from 4 to 5 p.m. at Montana Bonfire.
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The Bigfork Chamber of Commerce is offering “Social Media 101,” a free workshop on social media marketing strategies and platforms for Chamber members on March 21 from 4 to 5 p.m. at Montana Bonfire.
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Columbia Falls Women’s Connection will host a Bunco fundraising party from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 30, at the North Valley Hospital Community Room in Columbia Falls.
Saturday, March 16
Local recycling company starts plastics pilot program
Valley Recycling recently launched a plastics pilot program, making it the second resource in Flathead County to offer various recycling services — a rarity after most locations stopped accepting some recyclables in November following China’s refusal to import American plastics.
Back-stage crew an integral part of Children's Theatre production
While the stars of the Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre draw their audiences’ attention to the stage, a team of kids dressed in black works in the shadows, controlling the moving parts that make the productions possible.
Fresh Life's downtown Kalispell upgrades completed
The Kalispell campus of Fresh Life Church reopened to the public on March 2 after a year and a half of renovation expansion of its downtown buildings.
Man won't comply with kitty questioning
Concerned about being bitten by her cat, a woman called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, asking what she should do. When the woman said she was unsure whether the cat was vaccinated for rabies, dispatch asked the name of her veterinarian to confirm the cat’s vaccine history. Before the woman could answer, a man took the phone from her and told dispatch he would not give them the vet’s name, even after dispatch informed him why they needed it and told him they would be reporting him to the Health Department for refusing to comply.
Math brings local preschool families together
Peterson Elementary preschoolers counted colorful beads in an attempted 3-1-4 pattern to make bracelets, hopped along numbered construction paper lily pads, rolled dice and divided Play-Doh in celebration of math literacy and Pi Day.
Barry Neil Fisher, 65
Barry Neil Fisher, 65, of Bigfork, passed away suddenly in Kalispell on Feb. 5, 2019.
Jim Trebelcock, 66
Jim Trebelcock died March 10, 2019 in Gillette, Wyoming.
Friday, March 15
Montana shootings leave 1 dead, trooper and 2 others wounded
MISSOULA, Mont. (AP) — A Montana Highway Patrol trooper who was investigating a shooting that killed one person and injured two others was himself shot and critically injured Friday after finding the suspect's vehicle, officials said. Authorities later arrested a 29-year-old suspect.
Montana trooper's shooting leads to overnight manhunt
MISSOULA (AP) — A Montana Highway Patrol trooper who was investigating an earlier shooting was himself shot and critically injured early Friday after finding the suspect’s vehicle, leading authorities to launch an overnight manhunt that ended in the arrest of a 29-year-old man, officials said.
American Legion still focused on veterans, Americanism
In the wake of World War I, the Flathead Valley was like most places in America during those long winter months that followed the signing of the armistice on Nov. 11, 1918.
Roundabout touted as 'safest choice'
About 150 Flathead County residents filtered in and out of a conference room at the Hampton Inn in Kalispell on Wednesday to share their thoughts regarding a new $3.9 million roundabout planned at the troublesome intersection of Dern and Springcreek roads along U.S. 2.
Thursday, March 14
Warming trend to trigger valley melting
Break out your spring muck boots, because it’s about to get real sloppy in Northwest Montana.
Kalispell Regional earns 5-star rating
Kalispell Regional Medical Center recently became one of three hospitals in the state to receive a five-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for overall hospital quality — a designation awarded to only 293 hospitals in the nation.
Neo-Nazi website founder says he fears returning to U.S.
The operator of a leading neo-Nazi website claims it’s too dangerous for him to travel to the U.S. to be questioned under oath for a lawsuit accusing him of terrorizing a Montana real estate agent by unleashing an anti-Semitic “troll storm” against her family.
Man pleads not guilty to Coram homicide
During his arraignment Thursday morning, Martin J. Chandler pleaded not guilty to charges of felony deliberate homicide and felony use of a firearm following a Feb. 14 shooting in Coram that left another man dead.
Nate Chute: Boardercross event marks 20 years
The Nate Chute Banked Slalom and Boardercross races will celebrate 20 years at Whitefish Mountain Resort this weekend.
Jacqueline Amanda Creon, 86
Jacqueline Amanda Creon was born Jan. 3, 1933, to Amandus John and Edna Muriel Creon. She had two brothers, Charles Amandus and Eugene Earl; and two sisters, Martha Muriel and Ardith Adina. Jackie grew up in Whitefish and attended Central School, which was grades 1 through 12 at the time, and graduated from high school in 1952. After graduation she worked for Dr. J.N. Constenius, a dentist in Whitefish, from 1952 to 1955. Jackie attended the University of Oregon Dental School in Portland from 1955 to 1957 where she received her dental hygiene degree.
Glacier Symphony offers music scholarships
Glacier Symphony annually awards music scholarships to students in grades nine to 12, including graduating seniors. The program encourages student participation in the Glacier Symphony, Orchestra and Chorale, and assists those student musicians in pursuing a career or an avocation in music. The award of scholarships is based on musical ability and potential as determined by the Scholarship Committee. Individual scholarships awards range from $200 to $500.
Great Art on Screen goes deep with 'Caravaggio'
The second of four “Great Art on Screen” broadcast documentaries, “Caravaggio: The Soul and the Blood” will be shown at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 23, at the Whitefish Performing Art Center. This broadcast was originally scheduled for March 16, but was recently moved to March 23. Tickets are $15 adults/$5 students (K-12)/$10 college students, cash or check, available at the door.
Letters to the editor March 14
John and I had the privilege of delivering flowers for a local florist on Valentine’s Day. We had no idea how times have changed.
While moms bicker, kids take the fight outside
While two mothers argued with each other in a store on Nucleus Avenue, their kids brought the fight into the parking lot where they reportedly got physical while several other kids stood around.
John S. Cowan, 82
John S. Cowan of Kalispell and Polson passed on March 11, 2019. John was born in Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, on March 7, 1937, to John D. Cowan and Elizabeth Fowler Cowan. The family soon moved to Charleston, South Carolina, and subsequently in 1949 to Stamford, Connecticut. He attended the Hotchkiss School where he met lifelong friend and Polson resident Chuck Jarecki. A graduate of Middlebury College, John received an Master of Science in Accounting degree from the University of Wyoming.
Weekly events March 14-21
THURSDAY, MARCH 14
Local training aims to help curb veteran suicides
Doug Gilbertson, treasurer for the Veterans Coalition of Northwest Montana, carefully unveiled a bright white banner bearing the organization’s simple, yet weighted motto: Face to Face, Shoulder to Shoulder, Back to Back.
Get 'Loud at the Library'
The ImagineIF Library Foundation’s 10th annual Loud at the Library fundraiser takes place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 21, at ImagineIF Library in Kalispell.
Women of the World acclaimed ensemble performs March 22
Vocal quartet celebrates world folk music traditions from Bulgaria to Brazil and Japan to Africa
Award-winning songwriter Victoria Shaw to perform Saturday
On the Stage with Mike Eldred presents “Under The Covers with Victoria Shaw” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 16, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $48. Seats are limited.
Bigfork Children's Theater presents 'Addams Family' musical
The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre presents its final production of the 2018-2019 season, the kooky and spooky musical “The Addams Family.”
Hot off the press: Wolfpack Theatre Co. first in state to stage 'Newsies'
Stop the presses! With high-energy musicality, non-stop fun and a touch of Disney magic, the Wolfpack Theatre Co. will present Disney’s “Newsies: The Musical” March 19, 20, 21 and 22 at 6:33 p.m. in the Wolfpack Theatre at Glacier High School.
DeNae Weimer offers new six-week art class
The Kalispell Senior Center is offering a new six-week course in watercolor, taught by professional artist DeNae Weimer.
No rod and reel required
Melvin Flansaas caught this 25 pound lake trout while ice fishing on Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park on March 8.
Celebrate St. Patrick's Day all weekend
Celebrations in honor of St. Patrick’s Day come early and linger long. Even though the official holiday is Sunday, March 17, folks will kicking up their heels and raising a pint or two in the days ahead. Here’s the rundown of what’s happening around town.
Foundation's work focused on suicide awareness
The first Nate Chute snowboard races were held 20 years ago on Big Mountain as a way to remember a friend who tragically took his own life. Today, the event is thriving in participation and has blossomed into a crucial funding mechanism for the Nate Chute Foundation, which is dedicated to suicide prevention among young people.
Community band plans March 20 concert
The Flathead Valley Community Band presents its concert, “An Evening of Adventure — from Mt. Everest to the Pirates of the Caribbean” at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, in the Flathead High School auditorium, 644 Fourth Ave. W., Kalispell.
Flathead Basin Commission survives and evolves
The Flathead Basin Commission lives on after the gutting of its budget in 2017, the firing in 2018 of its executive director and the emergence of two organizations with similar missions.
Wednesday, March 13
Mexico citizen arrested in Glacier sentenced
A Mexico citizen arrested in Glacier National Park was sentenced Monday to six months in prison and to two years of supervised release for conviction of being in the United States illegally, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.
Ex-Interior chief Zinke cleared of illegal politicking
WASHINGTON (AP) — A government watchdog says former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke didn't engage in illegal political activity when he went to Pennsylvania about a year ago to announce federal grants shortly before a special House election.
Flathead, Montana see big increase in young voters
Voter turnout rates among Montana’s youth have swelled in recent years, from nearly 18 percent in 2014 to just over 42 percent last year in 2018, according to a report from the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, or CIRCLE.
Marjorie J. Peterson, 85
Marjorie J Peterson, 85, of Dayton, died March 9, 2019, in Kalispell.
Willetta Anna Boehm, 86
Willetta Anna Boehm, 86, of Kalispell, passed away on Wednesday, March 6, 2019, at BeeHive Homes in Kalispell.
William A. 'Bill' Glidden, 73
William A. “Bill” Glidden passed away on Feb. 27, 2019, his wife at his side.
Officers not hungry for edible evidence
A manager on U.S. 2 in Columbia Falls said someone hopped a fence and trespassed, possibly leaving behind evidence in the form of a sandwich. Flathead County Sheriff’s Office declined to collect the sandwich. Extra patrol was requested.
Noxon Tommy Long, 2 months
Noxon Tommy Long, 2 months, of Missoula passed away on Thursday, March 7, 2019, at St. Patrick Hospital.
Nancy Rae (Beebe) Clapper, 76
Our beautiful mother, Nancy Rae (Beebe) Clapper, 76, went to rest with her Lord and Savior on March 11, 2019, surrounded by her loving family.
Tuesday, March 12
Voters approve Evergreen Fire levy
The Evergreen Fire District cited facts and figures designed to demonstrate the need for taxpayer support of a district facing the challenges of escalating demand for rescue and fire services and aging equipment.
Ruder school locked down over Snap Chat threat
Ruder Elementary School in Columbia Falls underwent a “soft lockdown” from approximately 2:15 p.m. until school let out at 3:25 p.m. without incident on Tuesday, according to Columbia Falls School District Superintendent Steve Bradshaw.
First grizzly bear sighting this year in Yellowstone
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. (AP) — Yellowstone National Park has recorded its first grizzly bear sighting of the year as bears start to come out of hibernation with the pending end of winter.
Lawmaker pushes for part of power profit
The U.S. State Department’s lead negotiator for the Columbia River Treaty will lead a town hall meeting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, at the Red Lion Hotel in Kalispell, and with millions of dollars potentially on the line for Lincoln County, Sen. Mike Cuffe, R-Eureka, is encouraging Lincoln County residents to attend.
C-Falls student spearheads snowshoe donation for Special Olympics team
The Columbia Falls Special Olympics team has 10 new pairs of snowshoes, thanks to the efforts of junior high student Hope McAtee and Sportsman & Ski Haus of Kalispell.
Bill calls for health department staff cuts, tuition freeze
As the Montana House Appropriations Committee opened public testimony last week on the bill that sets the budget for state agencies, one of the most controversial proposals to emerge is the elimination of more than 100 full-time equivalent jobs from the Department of Public Health and Human Services.
Flathead Valley unemployment rate increases in January
Flathead County’s unemployment rate ticked up to 6.7 percent in January, an increase from 5.2 percent in December, the Montana Department of Labor said Monday.
Car-sitting not in police job description
A woman on Nucleus Avenue lost the keys to a friend’s vehicle and didn’t want to leave it unattended, so she asked Columbia Falls Police Department to watch it until the keys were found. She learned that car-sitting isn’t part of police officer duties.
State plans to widen U.S. 93 west of Whitefish
The Montana Department of Transportation will hold an open house meeting Wednesday, March 20, for a proposal to widen 1 mile of U.S. 93 west of Whitefish, between mile post 133 and 134, including two curves between Twin Bridges and Beaver Lake roads.
Watercraft inspections at regional stations begin this week
Roughly one week ago, Flathead Lake nearly froze over completely.
Hearing looks at proposed Bigfork development
The Flathead County Planning Board will hold a public hearing Wednesday on a preliminary-plat proposal for a 79-lot subdivision known as “The Settlement” in Bigfork.
Kalispell schools plan for lead testing
Kalispell Public Schools recently outlined a tentative three-year schedule for testing drinking water for lead in its facilities to the school board in response to a parent’s concern
Monday, March 11
Bartender nurtures iconic atmosphere
Moose’s Saloon in Kalispell is a lot of things without necessarily meaning to be.
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TODAY
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- Daughters of the American Revolution, Chief Ignace Chapter, meet noon to 3 p.m., 4Bs Restaurant, Kalispell. Sandy Taylor presents a program titled “The Battle of Kings Mountain.” To reserve a seat, call Cate, 755-6781.
Public lands package will benefit all Montanans
As public land owners, we’re ecstatic and proud to see all three members of Montana’s congressional delegation step forward in strong support of the Natural Resources Management Act, S. 47, which last month cleared both the U.S. House and Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support.
Author Jim Robbins to speak at Audubon meeting today
The Flathead Audubon Society will present Helena author Jim Robbins today, March 11.
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MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2019
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TODAY
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- Daughters of the American Revolution, Chief Ignace Chapter, meet noon to 3 p.m., 4Bs Restaurant, Kalispell. Sandy Taylor presents a program titled “The Battle of Kings Mountain.” To reserve a seat, call Cate, 755-6781.
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TODAY
Letters to the editor March 11
We are writing as pediatricians and concerned citizens of the Flathead Valley. On March 4, a letter to the editor written by Catherine Haug of Bigfork attempted to provide “scientific” opposition to the fluoridation of public water used to prevent dental cavities in children. Her letter unfortunately provides unsubstantiated and misleading claims about a well-established public health intervention. Ms. Haug lists 16 alleged adverse effects of fluoridated water but provides no credible sources to corroborate these claims. In fact, not one of her claimed side effects is supported by legitimate science.
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MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2019
Kalispell looks northward for more annexation
City eyes 240 acres near Church Drive
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MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2019
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- Daughters of the American Revolution, Chief Ignace Chapter, meet noon to 3 p.m., 4Bs Restaurant, Kalispell. Sandy Taylor presents a program titled “The Battle of Kings Mountain.” To reserve a seat, call Cate, 755-6781.
Sunday, March 10
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Brandie Donald, daughter of Donovan Donald III and Cassandra Gilmore of Kalispell was born Feb. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
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Brandie Donald, daughter of Donovan Donald III and Cassandra Gilmore of Kalispell was born Feb. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
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Brandie Donald, daughter of Donovan Donald III and Cassandra Gilmore of Kalispell was born Feb. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
New downtown trail system presented in Kalispell work session
Details of Kalispell’s new pedestrian trail system will be presented at the City Council work session tonight.
You call that a knife? This is a knife!
A man in a bright orange Broncos sweatshirt was allegedly seen checking car door handles, according to Kalispell Police Department logs. When confronted, the suspect reportedly brandished a knife. But the man who confronted the suspect pulled out his own knife and pushed the suspect down.
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The next Blueprint for Business Success, a Job Service Kalispell free speaker series, is Tuesday, March 19, with a focus on the challenges of staffing.
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The next Blueprint for Business Success, a Job Service Kalispell free speaker series, is Tuesday, March 19, with a focus on the challenges of staffing.
Mary Niome Sacrison, 89
Mary Niome Sacrison, 89, passed away peacefully with family by her side, on March 2, 2019.
Women Build crew tackles Habitat home in Kalispell
A dozen women sporting pink hardhats spent International Women’s Day on Friday helping build a Habitat for Humanity home in Kalispell.
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The next Blueprint for Business Success, a Job Service Kalispell free speaker series, is Tuesday, March 19, with a focus on the challenges of staffing.
Center offers hands-on approach for CPS requirements
The recently launched Two Bears Family Center in Kalispell, named after co-founders Kim Kearney and Berni McDonald, or the two “mama bears,” offers a very hands-on approach to helping families meet Child Protective Services reunification requirements by building more personal relationships with clients.
Conference to focus on vexing mussels, other challenges
Dan Handlin moved to Little Bitterroot Lake in 2007 with a firsthand understanding of the devastating impact of aquatic invasive species.
New Whitefish halotherapy rooms offer salt-centered relief
After years of suffering with regular sinus infections, Pam Barberis of Whitefish was eager to try anything to alleviate her symptoms, having little luck with traditional remedies.
Permits for North Fork worth studying
American Rivers pulls no punches when describing the upper North Fork of the Flathead River. It’s a “recreational paradise for anglers and paddlers,” they write, where “emerald water flows past a seemingly endless procession of show-stopping scenery.”
Wendy Pendergraft, 61
Our beloved Wendy Pendergraft went to heaven due to an unexpected accident on March 5, 2019. Wendy was a very loving wife with a deep faith in God, as well as a wonderful mother and grandmother.
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- Gold, Gem and Mineral Show,10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Expo Building, Northwest Montana Fairgrounds, Kalispell. Admission is free for children through eighth grade, $2 for adults, high school age and older. Door prizes. Free parking.
Letters to the editor March 10
Tom Muri’s goofy comparison (March 3 letter to the editor) of his Vietnam “wall thing” to a sovereign country needing a secure border is silly.
Child and Family Services has large responsibilities, large problems
As chairman of House Human Services committee, I realize that there is a need for a good system of protection for our children in Montana. As many news sources opine, and as we know, there are children that need to be removed from their homes, at least for a time and sometimes permanently.
Democracy really does die in darkness
The students I teach at the University of Montana often show up with a powerful assumption: If there is some piece of information out there, Google can find it. It’s an understandable belief for 19-year-olds who have grown up in a world where ubiquitous connection to the Internet and easy access to vast reams of webpages is expected.
Phyllis M. Reeves, 96
Phyllis M. Reeves, 96, died peacefully on March 2, 2019, at Prestige Assisted Living in Kalispell where she had resided for the past nearly five years.
Mom's kitchen was 'Little Italy' with lots of love
About 10 years ago, my husband’s family began compiling a cookbook to honor and forever preserve my Italian mother-in-law’s cooking legacy.
Iron & steel The forging of an artist's life
The road leading to David Secrest’s studio above Somers was freshly covered with snow, unbroken by tire tracks. Yet on this sunny, cold February afternoon the robins had already arrived.
Norma Jean Stubblefield, 85
Norma Jean Stubblefield, 85 years of age, died on March 5, 2019, of natural causes.
Every human life must be valued and protected
By now we’ve all heard the disturbing defense of infanticide offered by the disgraced Governor Northam of Virginia. The barbaric practice of infanticide, which is the killing by violence or neglect of an innocent baby already born, was defended publicly again last week, and this time, it was by 44 U.S. Senate Democrats.
Kenneth 'Ken' Robert Schoof, 74
Kenneth “Ken” Robert Schoof, 74, born in Detroit on March 11, 1944, to parents Harvey and Eleanor Schoof, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2019, at the age of 74, in Kalispell.
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Northwest Montana Posse of Westerners (a history organization) presents a program Monday, March 18, titled “Morton J. Elrod, Montana’s Pioneer Naturalist” by Tom Bansak, assistant director for the Flathead Lake Biological Station, University of Montana.
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- Gold, Gem and Mineral Show,10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Expo Building, Northwest Montana Fairgrounds, Kalispell. Admission is free for children through eighth grade, $2 for adults, high school age and older. Door prizes. Free parking.
No headline
Northwest Montana Posse of Westerners (a history organization) presents a program Monday, March 18, titled “Morton J. Elrod, Montana’s Pioneer Naturalist” by Tom Bansak, assistant director for the Flathead Lake Biological Station, University of Montana.
No headline
- Gold, Gem and Mineral Show,10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Expo Building, Northwest Montana Fairgrounds, Kalispell. Admission is free for children through eighth grade, $2 for adults, high school age and older. Door prizes. Free parking.
No headline
Northwest Montana Posse of Westerners (a history organization) presents a program Monday, March 18, titled “Morton J. Elrod, Montana’s Pioneer Naturalist” by Tom Bansak, assistant director for the Flathead Lake Biological Station, University of Montana.
Saturday, March 9
Wildkats 3rd at state basketball
GREAT FALLS — After three consecutive 9 a.m. games and a clash with a team that crushed them 58-29 on the first day of the tournament, you could not have blamed the Columbia Falls Wildkats for coming up short on Saturday afternoon at Four Seasons Arena.
Wildkats 3rd at state basketball
GREAT FALLS — After three consecutive 9 a.m. games and a clash with a team that crushed them 58-29 on the first day of the tournament, you could not have blamed the Columbia Falls Wildkats for coming up short on Saturday afternoon at Four Seasons Arena.
Wildkats 3rd at state basketball
GREAT FALLS — After three consecutive 9 a.m. games and a clash with a team that crushed them 58-29 on the first day of the tournament, you could not have blamed the Columbia Falls Wildkats for coming up short on Saturday afternoon at Four Seasons Arena.
Wolfpack falls to Capital by 20 in loser out
BUTTE — The Glacier Wolfpack (15-10) fell to Helena Capital 56-36 on Saturday, eliminating them from the Class AA state girls basketball tournament at the Butte Civic Center.
Wolfpack falls to Capital by 20 in loser out
BUTTE — The Glacier Wolfpack (15-10) fell to Helena Capital 56-36 on Saturday, eliminating them from the Class AA state girls basketball tournament at the Butte Civic Center.
Wolfpack falls to Capital by 20 in loser out
BUTTE — The Glacier Wolfpack (15-10) fell to Helena Capital 56-36 on Saturday, eliminating them from the Class AA state girls basketball tournament at the Butte Civic Center.
Flathead Lake nearly achieves complete ice-over
American coots bobbed in what remained of open water earlier this week on Flathead Lake and eagles perched nearby in a waterfowl mood.
Bigfork's monthly town-hall meeting today
Bigfork’s monthly community town hall meeting will take place today at Bigfork High School.
Speech coaches picked for Hall of Fame
With a combined 23 state championship teams during their tenure, speech and debate assistant coaches Ivanna Fritz of Glacier High School and Sean O’Donnell of Flathead High School will be inducted into the Montana Forensic Educators Association Coaches Hall of Fame.
Bubble bath bagger creeps mom out
Kalispell Police received a call from mother who claimed she had a strange encounter with a grocery store bagger. She said the male picked up the bubble bath she’d bought for her kids and started talking to her kids inappropriately about how they would enjoy their bubble bath. The woman claimed the man was touching himself while talking to them. The woman refused to give her name or number and hung up.
Whitefish, Bigfork teens honored for book-club work
A Whitefish freshman and two Bigfork sisters recently received recognition on the floor of the United States Congress.
Cherie (Conrad) Ellingson, 84
Cherie (Conrad) Ellingson embarked on her final adventure on March 6, 2019, to the greatest travel destination of all, Heaven.
Flathead students develop plan to open school-based coffee shop
School-Based Enterprise students at Flathead High School only had 12 weeks to brew up an entire business.
Friday, March 8
Class A State Basketball Columbia Falls plays on with a loser-out victory over Libby
GREAT FALLS — Columbia Falls lives to fight another day at the Class A state girls basketball tournament, at the expense of the Libby Loggers.
Class AA State Basketball Glacier girls beat Billings Senior, 52-33
BUTTE — After a lackluster start to the Class AA state girls basketball tournament the day before, the Glacier Wolfpack more than made up for it on Friday, beating Billings Senior in loser-out play 52-33 at the Butte Civic Center.
'Fighting For Our Lives'
Noah Couser has a gift for speaking to young people.
Intoxicated man can't find home, sweet home
A woman reportedly tried to help an intoxicated man get home by giving him a ride, but after attempting to drop him off at multiple addresses to no avail, she gave up and took him to the Kalispell Police station, according to a Flathead County Sheriff’s Office report. Officers ran a search for the man’s address and managed to get him home.
Veteran inducted into Women's Foundation Hall of Fame
Retired Brig. Gen. Colleen L. McGuire of Kalispell was inducted into the United States Army Women’s Foundation Hall of Fame during a special ceremony Thursday in Washington, D.C.
Changes at DMV aim to shorten wait times
Beginning March 14, Flathead County residents will start experiencing shorter wait times at the county Department of Motor Vehicles as the Treasurer’s Office halts its processing of title work for limited liability companies (LLCs) and their registered agents — clientele that accounted for nearly 7,000 of the titles processed by the division in 2018.
Local geography buffs advance to state competition
Ten global-minded students have qualified to compete at the Montana National Geographic GeoBee.
Glacier opts for backcountry reservation lottery
Glacier National Park has announced a key change in its backcountry camping advanced reservation system this year. The system, which will go live on Friday, March 15, will now use a “modified lottery system” on opening day that will process requests “in a randomly sequenced order,” the Park announced on its website.
Class B State Basketball Victorious Vikings
The Daily Inter Lake
Thursday, March 7
Class A State Basketball Rough start for C-Falls, Libby girls
By COLIN GAISER
Class AA State Basketball Billings West takes down Wolfpack
BUTTE — Turning a slow-paced game in their favor, the Billings West Golden Bears trampled the Glacier Wolfpack 41-20 in first-round play at the Class AA state girls basketball tournament at the Butte Civic Center on Thursday afternoon.
Class B State Basketball Title time for Bigfork, again
The Daily Inter Lake
Martin City fire victim ID'd
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office has identified the woman who died in a fire last week in Martin City as Karen Short, 54.
Young grizzlies didn't hibernate after mother was killed
A sighting of two young grizzlies in the Mission Valley this past week is the ongoing saga of an unusual and sad story from last summer, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Wildlife Management Program posted Thursday on its Facebook page.
Statewide snowpack in good shape after snowy February
Shucking expectations of continued above-average temperatures and below-normal snowfall, February delivered abundant snowfall and December-like temperatures to the Treasure State. Snowfall for the month was above normal to record-setting across the state, and snowpack totals for March 1 have improved in all river basins, according to snow survey data collected by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Norway bestows medals on local artist
Sausages hanging from barbed wire illustrate a key moment in Arvid “Kris” Kristoffersen’s fight against the Nazis during World War II, a time that inspired both the artistic passion and the rebellious spirit that won him two medals from the Norwegian government last month.
Woodstock Trio plans inaugural performance
The Woodstock Trio will perform from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 9, at the Nancy Cawdry Gallery, 204 Wisconsin Ave. in Whitefish. Admission is free.
Logjam Presents plans new concert venue in Bozeman
Montana-based concert promoter Logjam Presents has begun construction on a new 1,500-person capacity venue in Bozeman. The state-of-the-art facility will be located at 506 Seventh Ave. in Bozeman’s midtown district. The name of the new venue will be the ELM.
'Jesus Christ Superstar' draws all-star cast
For nearly 50 years, “Jesus Christ Superstar” has electrified audiences around the globe, and has become the standard by which all future rock operas have been measured. Alpine Theatre Project brings together an all-star ensemble of singers and rock musicians to present Andrew Lloyd Webber’s ’70s rock-infused musical at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center in downtown Whitefish.
FVCC Spring Concert Series heats up
Cocinando Latin Jazz Ensemble and vocalist Emily Baker will provide some spicy heat on a cold evening as Flathead Valley Community College’s Music Department’s spring concert series continues Friday, March 15, with performances by music faculty members and guests.
Weekly events March 7-14
THURSDAY, MARCH 7
Kalispell Middle School presents 'Mulan, Jr.'
“Mulan, Jr.” is a musical designed for middle-school aged performers and based on the 1998 Disney film “Mulan” and the story “Fa Mulan” by Robert D. San Souci. The all-school cast and crew contains approximately 60-plus students led by teachers Tracy Snipstead and Anne Castren, Rachel Bjork and choreographer Krista Orona.
Mission Valley Has Talent 2019 on stage in Polson
Robert Parot’s Native American Hoop Dance won first place at Mission Valley Has Talent 2018.
Letters to the editor March 7
I fully support the Evergreen Fire Department for fire protection, but I do not think it is financially responsible to build an ambulance service/QRU to compete with the ambulance services of Kalispell, Whitefish and Columbia Falls, which are all under 20 minutes away.
Bigfork math teacher's 'beard-raiser' helps DREAM Adaptive
An assembly of Bigfork middle-schoolers erupted in applause and chants of “Shave it off! Shave it off!” as their teacher took a seat in front of the gymnasium bleachers to have his beard shaved off Wednesday morning.
So long, sister - it's time to go
Someone’s sister was overextending her welcome as a “house guest,” and reportedly wasn’t paying rent. To add insult to injury, the sister was verbally abusive to her host, who asked Kalispell Police Department how to get her sibling out of the house.
Valley shows support for K-9 new unit
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office will soon have its own K-9 unit to help sniff out and choke off the valley’s drug epidemic.
'Watchdog' fired last year sues state agency
The defiantly independent former executive director of the Flathead Basin Commission filed a lawsuit last week against the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.
Wednesday, March 6
Annual trip for Kats; Loggers join the mix
You can call it a routine or just say expectations are always met, but either way Columbia Falls figures to be there regardless when it comes state tournament time for Class A girls basketball.
Glacier ready to challenge West
By KATIE BROWN
State B Boys Basketball Bigfork pulls away from Big Timber
BELGRADE — Bigfork needed a big fourth quarter to beat back at determined Big Timber team 61-45 on Wednesday afternoon in first-round play at the Class B boys statge basketball tournament at the Belgrade Special Events Center.
Glacier Park's Lake McDonald freezes over
After a frigid start to March, Glacier National Park’s Lake McDonald has frozen over in its entirety, save for a few holes the size of a school bus.
Gary Edward Schultz, 67
Gary Edward Schultz was born Aug. 20, 1951, in Kalispell, to Edward G. and Edith (Lien) Schultz. He attended Boorman School until the family relocated to Columbia Falls where he graduated from high school in 1968. He received a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Montana, and a second master’s and Ph.D. in physical anthropology from Wayne State University in Detroit.
No headline
- Friendship Force meets for breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes Restaurant, Kalispell. Learn about unique travel experiences and opportunities. Call Priscilla, 756-9332.
No headline
- Friendship Force meets for breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes Restaurant, Kalispell. Learn about unique travel experiences and opportunities. Call Priscilla, 756-9332.
Dice-game bill worries gambling watchdogs
The Montanan Gambling Control Division’s report disclosed that two undercover investigators could not join the game on Thanksgiving Eve because the stakes were too high.
Sleepy teen gets a boost out of bed
A teen was refusing to get ready for school on Park Avenue in Hungry Horse, according to a call made to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. Two people reportedly argued about whether or not grabbing the teen to get him out of bed was abuse. Both parties were counseled and the youth was finally up and ready to go to school.
New mental-health clinic built on personal experience
Chad Kingery had to pause for a moment before reading a quote that not only is representative of him and his wife Katheryn’s mission for their new chemical dependency and mental-health clinic, but also reminds him of a time when he suffered from addiction himself.
No headline
- Friendship Force meets for breakfast 9 a.m., Sykes Restaurant, Kalispell. Learn about unique travel experiences and opportunities. Call Priscilla, 756-9332.
Red Cross shares life-saving info with Lakeside students
On a recent February afternoon, 24 fifth-graders at Lakeside Elementary School gathered to learn about two American Red Cross programs that could help save their lives and the lives of their families.
Kaye Hinman Adkins, 81
Kaye Hinman Adkins passed away peacefully on March 1, 2019, in Brighton, Colorado.
Who's Who a rare opportunity to see owls up-close
On Friday residents and visitors to the Flathead Valley will have a rare opportunity to get a bird’s-eye view of three owls native to Montana.
Tuesday, March 5
Back-to-back title try for Bigfork
By DAVID LESNICK
Heater being used to thaw pipes blamed for structure fire
A heater being used to thaw frozen pipes is likely to blame for a structure fire in Evergreen on Tuesday afternoon.
Annual report shows uptick in surgical procedures, births
North Valley Hospital released its 2019 Community Report last week, detailing the nonprofit’s accomplishments from 2018, which include, among other things, being named as a Baby Friendly Hospital — a designation employees worked toward for more than five years.
Kalispell sets record low temp on Monday
Dead batteries. Frozen pipes. Aching fingers. Wind-burned faces. Breath riming eyebrows white.
Cold snap raises concerns for community
Someone requested a welfare check from the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office for a woman south of a U.S. 93 intersection in Kalispell who was reportedly begging for a ride. The person thought the woman was acting strange when she supposedly was whipping around and throwing her arms up toward cars. Officers were unable to locate the flailing woman.
Fire damages Blue and White Motel
An attic fire at the Blue and White Motel in Kalispell on Friday night caused thousands of dollars worth of fire, smoke and water damage and displaced about 20 motel tenants, none of whom were injured.
Forest Service seeks input on Van Lake improvements
Van Lake’s popularity with campers and others bent on recreation presents a common dilemma.
Darlene D. Ernst, 88
Darlene Doris Steinke of Kalispell passed away on Feb. 28, 2019.
Princess Ball prep Organizers of annual fundraiser hope to top $500,000 mark
Ball gowns, tiaras and tuxedos are being prepped this week in anticipation of one of the Flathead Valley’s social events of the season — the annual Valicity’s Once Upon A Time Princess Ball.
Code Girls program gets financial boost
Whitefish philanthropists Michael and Jamie Goguen have given Code Girls United a boost with a $50,000 donation.
Major lakeshore variance approved
The Flathead County Commissioners moved to approve a request for a major variance to the Flathead County Lake and Lakeshore Protection Regulation last week following a public hearing.
Monday, March 4
Montana's Republican legislators are unified
As Speaker of the House, it is a goal of mine to have unity within the Republican caucus and a positive working relationship with the minority party. At the halfway point of the 66th legislative session we are hitting those marks.
Polson student's study of geology also includes astronomy
Growing up with the Mission Mountains as the backdrop of his youth, Caden Howlett became captivated with geology.
Letters to the editor March 4
According to Kianna Gardner’s Feb. 16 article, “Montana Gets Poor Checkup for Dental Health,” about a recent study on dental health by state, “One major impact is fluoridation, or the controlled addition of fluoride to a public water supply in order to reduce tooth decay.” Gardner quotes Wendy Taber of Flathead Community Health Center Dental Clinic: “[fluoridated] water is so controversial, but it’s actually completely safe.”
Whitefish considers northside subdivision
A proposal to develop a 12-lot residential subdivision on just over 1 acre at the corner of Colorado Avenue and Denver Street will be considered by the Whitefish City Council during a public hearing tonight.
Barbara Knox 'Bobbie' Fuller, 94
Barbara Knox “Bobbie” Fuller was a bright and loving daughter, sister to three siblings, mother to three children, grandmother to seven, and great-grandmother to six. She was Aunt Bobbie to many nephews and nieces now living in Montana, Washington, Wyoming and Nevada.
Concerned citizen looking out for those in need
A woman picked up a man walking in the middle of the road with no hat or gloves, according to Kalispell Police Department logs. The man said he had nowhere to stay the night, so the woman gave him $40, dropped him off at a bus stop and asked law enforcement to check on him.
Kathleen Ann 'Kippy' Mansfield Redman, 71
Kathleen Ann “Kippy” Mansfield Redman, 71, passed away Feb. 2, 2019.
120 new apartments planned near Gateway Center
A 120-unit apartment project near Gateway Community Center is the focus of a public hearing before the Kalispell City Council during its regular meeting tonight.
Sunday, March 3
Ski program introduces kids to the slopes
The 3 degree temperature matched the age of the eager skiers who gathered at Whitefish Mountain Resort on Wednesday morning for their weekly lesson with the Ski and Ride School’s Buckaroos program. The frigid weather wasn’t of much concern for the little ones. Plenty of hot laps and high fives — and maybe even a hot cocoa — were on tap for the day to keep them warm.
Deep freeze settles over Flathead
An extreme cold weather warning was issued for the Flathead Valley through 11 a.m. Monday morning, with thermometer readings expected to crash as low as 15 to 30 degrees below zero.
No headline
The 2019 Bob Marshall Wilderness Speaker Series presents a program titled “Wilderness Fisheries Management” from 7 to 8:15 p.m. March 6 in the Arts and Technology Building at Flathead Valley Community College. The presentation is free and open to the public.
A major win for conservation
Fifty-four years — that’s how long the Land and Water Conservation Fund has been around. Since its inception in 1965 it’s been one of the most popular and effective bipartisan programs Congress has ever created.
Letters to the editor March 3
As a survivor in my childhood of clergy sex abuse in California and, as a survivor in my adulthood of clergy power abuse while working as an independent advocate for other survivors over the past 26 years, I’d like to clarify a few points for Catholic-Christians in the valley who, for whatever reason, did not avail themselves of the excellent, totally transparent, online access to last week’s abuse summit presentations and beautiful, penitential service at the Vatican. The 190 bishops and religious officials present were themselves extraordinary in that they are the archbishops/religious leaders in their appointed locale and have arguable authority over ordinary bishops in their specific regions of our nation and other countries of the world. I believe that Archbishop Sample of Portland, a native of Kalispell, is the leader in our region.
Teen uses time-honored technique to adorn knives
A teenager’s hobby of drawing horses has evolved into a passion for an ancient technique used to engrave and decorate knives.
Barbers keep busy with vintage service and style
When Lance Wright opened the doors to his retro-style Whitefish Barbershop & Men’s Mercantile in October 2018, he soon realized he couldn’t sustain a one-man operation.
Watching old movies: 'There Will Be Blood'
I know I’m stating the obvious, but it’s been an agonizingly long winter. In our 28 years of living in the Flathead, I can’t remember another winter when our long, rural driveway has been made impassable so many times by drifting snow. (We may have to take out a loan to pay our snowplowing bill if this keeps up).
Carol Binette, 83
Carol Binette passed away on Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019, at her home in Aurora, Colorado. She was just four days from her 84th birthday.
How will history remember Trump's border wall effort?
America’s fixation on a wall between the U.S. and Mexico recalls America’s determination to build a wall to solve a deadly conflict half a century ago.
Judge wrong to halt Keystone pipeline
A U.S. District Court judge in Montana recently ordered a halt to construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, which could transport 800,000 barrels of crude oil from Canada to the Gulf Coast each day once completed.
Marie Ann Foglio Muggerud, 72
Marie Ann Foglio Muggerud, 72, of Billings, formerly of Bigfork, and Bell Gardens, California, died peacefully in her sleep on Feb. 16, 2019, at St. Vincent Hospital in Billings, with her son by her side.
Elizabeth Ann (Hueneke) Allen, 72
Beth finished her battle with cancer on Feb. 26, 2019. She took on cancer with grace, faith, strength and a smile. She remained the kindest, most loving woman through five years of chemo and numerous surgeries that almost took her life. She fought to live to make more memories with her loving family. We are so thankful for our five years of bonus time. If you met Beth, you would remember her, her laugh, her smile. She lit up every room, her genuine positive attitude was infectious.
No headline
The Whitefish Chamber of Commerce monthly “Lunch n’ Learn” brown-bag seminar series continues on Thursday, March 7, with a session led by Ted Echard of Stafford, a Whitefish-based digital marketing and consulting agency.
No headline
The Whitefish Chamber of Commerce monthly “Lunch n’ Learn” brown-bag seminar series continues on Thursday, March 7, with a session led by Ted Echard of Stafford, a Whitefish-based digital marketing and consulting agency.
Bob McCandless, 76
Bob “Mr. Muck” McCandless passed away at home on Feb. 4, 2019, after a long war with Alzheimer’s disease, at the age of 76.
Smells like teen shenanigans
What was suspected to be a group of teens smoking weed turned out to be nothing more than adults enjoying a campfire, according to Kalispell Police Department logs.
Lakeside Marina transforming into Flathead Harbor
The new owners of the former Lakeside Marina are working diligently to have everything ready for the summer season on Flathead Lake.
Support bipartisan youth suicide prevention bills
Montana is a state with a proud history of firsts.
No headline
The Whitefish Chamber of Commerce monthly “Lunch n’ Learn” brown-bag seminar series continues on Thursday, March 7, with a session led by Ted Echard of Stafford, a Whitefish-based digital marketing and consulting agency.
No headline
The 2019 Bob Marshall Wilderness Speaker Series presents a program titled “Wilderness Fisheries Management” from 7 to 8:15 p.m. March 6 in the Arts and Technology Building at Flathead Valley Community College. The presentation is free and open to the public.
No headline
The 2019 Bob Marshall Wilderness Speaker Series presents a program titled “Wilderness Fisheries Management” from 7 to 8:15 p.m. March 6 in the Arts and Technology Building at Flathead Valley Community College. The presentation is free and open to the public.
Whitefish proposes fireworks ban
The city of Whitefish plans to put the kibosh on the use of fireworks — except for one big public show on July 4 — and will use a City Council work session on Monday to talk about the proposed restrictions.
Saturday, March 2
Hellgate boys claim Western AA crown
The Daily Inter Lake
Glacier girls state bound
By COLIN GAISER
Skijoring called off Saturday due to frigid weather
The skijoring event at Rebecca Farm in Kalispell was canceled Saturday due to frigid weather impacting the area.
Impassable roads prevent delivery of Inter Lake in some areas
Due to extreme winter weather and impassable roads, some Inter Lake subscribers will not receive their Saturday edition.
Flathead County Science Fair results
Third Grade
Whitefish science teacher gets STEM grant
Todd Spangler, a science teacher at Whitefish High School, has received a $3,000 STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) research grant from the Society for Science & the Public to purchase equipment for his classroom.
Salvation Army Thrift Store undergoing renovation
The Salvation Army Thrift Store in Kalispell will be closed for several weeks for renovations.
Officials discuss permit system for North Fork
The Flathead National Forest is eyeing the prospect of the possibility of a permit system or other crowd controls for the scenic section of the North Fork of the Flathead River. The scenic section, as defined under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, runs from the border with Canada to the Camas Bridge.
Fair-Mont-Egan School completes lighting upgrade
Fair-Mont-Egan School has completed a two-year, phased project that replaced the school’s indoor and outdoor lighting with energy-efficient LED fixtures.
Swank wins bid for final upgrade of Vo-Ag Center
Swank Enterprises has been selected as the general contractor for the second phase of construction at the H.E. Robinson Vocational Agriculture Center.
Neighbor mum about who let the dogs out
A Coram resident called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report his neighbor’s dogs had entered his yard, and he planned to take photos for animal control if the dogs kept getting loose. Officers confronted a neighboring resident about his dogs, but the owner claimed his dogs had not left his yard. When officers pointed out numerous dog tracks leading to and from his yard, the man said they were from someone else’s dogs and threatened to make a harassment complaint against the officers. He got a verbal warning anyway.
Creston on track to build new fire hall
The 53rd year of the Creston Auction, the region’s largest spring event each April, brings with it this year the goal of funding the Creston Fire Department’s new fire hall.
Friday, March 1
Capital rolls over Glacier in semis
Helena Capital used a big first quarter to propel itself to a 47-37 win over Glacier in the Western AA Divisional girls basketball semifinals on Friday at Glacier High School.
Braves, Bravettes move on in loser-out play
The Flathead Braves and Bravettes pulled off a sweep of Missoula Big Sky on Friday at the Western AA Divisional basketball tournament at Glacier High School.
Woman dies in Martin City fire
A Martin City woman died in a house fire Thursday afternoon. Her name has not been released.
No headline
- Kalispell Public Schools finance and operations committee meeting at the district office basement meeting room beginning at 7 a.m.
Weekend events
Skijoring at Rebecca Farm
Lawmakers nix hunting wolves after dark
State Rep. Bob Brown said frustrated constituents told him they wanted more ways and opportunities to kill wolves.
Science takes center stage at annual fair
Students presented their findings on topics ranging from unborn chickens to alternative drinking straws for this year’s Flathead County Science Fair on Thursday.
No headline
- Kalispell Public Schools finance and operations committee meeting at the district office basement meeting room beginning at 7 a.m.
911 dispatchers give life-saving advice
Dispatchers at the Flathead 911 Emergency Communications Center coached a parent in CPR on their 5-month-old baby when the child was not breathing. The baby started breathing and moving within a couple of minutes and was crying by the time law enforcement got to the house.
Beef, pork labeling bills stuck in committees
Montana legislators have tabled two bills that would require retailers to display placards at meat counters differentiating where beef and pork products are from.
No headline
- Kalispell Public Schools finance and operations committee meeting at the district office basement meeting room beginning at 7 a.m.
Jan Esther Joyce Brinton, 66
On Monday, Feb. 25, 2019, Jan passed away peacefully in her sleep of natural causes.
Karen Jean Campo, 57
Karen Jean Campo, 57, of Medina, Ohio, passed away on Feb. 26, 2019, with family by her side after battling a resurgence of breast cancer.
Open-burning season begins in county
Flathead County’s spring open-burning season begins today, March 1, and will last through April 30, allowing residents to burn certain materials without a permit, according to a notice from the City-County Health Department.
