Ellington

Whitefish aims for soccer title

It’s been two years since anyone’s beaten the Whitefish Bulldogs boys soccer team.

Flathead, Glacier in AA playoffs tonight

The Glacier Wolfpack and the Flathead Braves both hit the road today for the Class AA football playoffs.

Montana Land Reliance milestone marked in anthology

“A Million Acres: Montana Writers Reflect on Land and Open Space” is a stunning hardcover literary anthology featuring powerful writing about Montana’s magnificent wild lands and open spaces by 20 of the state’s finest contemporary writers. The book is sponsored by the Montana Land Reliance and celebrates its protection of one million acres of Montana’s agricultural land, fish and wildlife habitat and open spaces through voluntary conservation easements.

Nobody knows anything about duds in car

A casino customer asked a woman to call Kalispell Police Department to come search his vehicle because there were supposedly items in it that weren’t his and he wanted an officer to look at them. An officer made contact with a man who claimed he loaned the vehicle to a friend and was unsure who owned clothing found in the back seat, but was advised that law enforcement would not be able to help him with that.

Glacier Park moves to winter phase

Dec. 21 may be well more than a month away, but Glacier National Park officials are already making the move to winter operations.

Election mailbag Oct. 31

As a fifth-generation Montanan, I have watched Kalispell grow with great speed. My Great-great-grandfather started the Anderson Theater Company. The Strand, Liberty, Gateway Cinemas, the Sundown and Midway Drive-In were my family’s second home. These theaters thrived in their day, as did the downtown.

Get informed and get out and vote

National news headlines typical drive political conversations, but it’s local government that often has the greatest impact on our daily lives. Decisions about local zoning directly impact your neighborhood; decisions about water rates directly impact your household budget; and decisions about street and bridge repairs directly impact your daily commute to work.

Accused killer set to plead guilty by reason of mental disease

A Whitefish man accused of killing his father during a dispute more than a year ago is scheduled to plead guilty to the offense next week in Flathead County District Court.

West outlasts Glacier girls

A tale of two halves.

Hellgate downs Glacier, advances to title game

MISSOULA — Marcus Anderson scored two goals and assisted on a third as the Missoula Hellgate Knights punched their ticket to the Class AA state championship soccer match with a 3-0 semifinal win over the Glacier Wolfpack on Wednesday.

Boutique offers handmade furniture and more

Everything is by design at a new boutique shop on Electric Avenue. Kathleen Hennen hand-picks or hand-makes all of the products she sells at Bigfork Design, with items ranging from tables to T-shirts.

Burglars who stole canine remains sentenced to state prison

Two Flathead County residents who pleaded guilty to their respective roles in a string of 2018 burglaries that included the theft of a puppy and a dog’s cremains were sentenced to the Montana State Prison Thursday, Oct. 24, in Flathead District Court.

Bigfork eyes improvement going into playoffs

Last Saturday, the Eureka Lions maintained their undefeated record with a commanding win over the Bigfork Vikings. The Lions established dominance early on with three touchdowns in the first quarter followed by two more in the second, which put them at 34-0 going into the second half. Despite the stiff competition, the Vikings didn’t throw in the towel — Bigfork’s Levi Taylor ran in a touchdown from eight yards in the final quarter, putting Bigfork on the scoreboard with a final score of 44-6.

Winter conditions challenge Vikings harriers at state meet

The Bigfork High School cross-country team battled chilly weather and a snowy course during the Montana State Cross Country Championships in Great Falls last Saturday. The girls finished 8th overall out of the 21 Class B teams, while the boys put up a respectable 13th-place finish in a field 26 teams strong.

Get involved with your Bigfork Eagle

The Bigfork Eagle exists for and because of you, our readers. We appreciate and encourage your thoughtful feedback, story suggestions, questions and more. Here are a few ways you can get involved.

Events: Oct. 30 - Nov. 6

Wednesday, Oct. 30:

Artist's corner: Tabby Ivy

Bio

Watch DOGS to bring fathers into the classroom

Beginning this November, it won’t be uncommon to see fathers, uncles and grandfathers wandering the halls and playground at Bigfork Elementary School. They will be among the first group of volunteers in the Watch DOGS program —Dads Of Great Students— a volunteer-based initiative designed to bring positive male role models into students’ lives. Watch DOGS participants volunteer for up to an entire school day and spend time with students in grades pre-K through fourth during lunchtime, recess and in the classroom. They also wear Watch DOGS T-shirts so students can easily identify the participants as volunteers.

The Eagle flies once more

Welcome to the new Bigfork Eagle.

Eagle touches down with fresh format after nearly 4-year hiatus

The Eagle has landed — again.

ACES after-school program planning to build youth center

On weekday afternoons, an average of 60 children attend the Bigfork ACES program — a combination of arts, community, education and sports activities that keeps kids busy after school and during the summer months.

ImagineIF Foundation hits $400,000 fundraising milestone

Fundraising is 30 percent complete for renovations to the future home of the ImagineIF Library in Bigfork. The ImagineIF Library Foundation purchased the Bethany Lutheran Church Ark Building for $475,000 in December 2018 and hopes to raise another $1.2 million to transform the 6,000-square-foot space into a library. The foundation had hoped to gift the building to the county, provided that the county increase the library system’s current annual budget by $40,000 to $50,000, which foundation officials said would be necessary to open the new facility.

Bigfork Art and Cultural Center welcomes new executive director

Laura Hodge has worn many hats over the course of her career.

Hotel cleaner finds surprise guest

Wednesday, Oct. 23

Levy sustains service, supports new hires

A drawn out “beep” sounded from inside the ambulance, signaling a call for service.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. FVCC; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Flathead Valley is brimming with Halloween activities

There may be a bit of a chill in the air, but there’s all kinds of Halloween week fun to share, so get out there ... if you dare!

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. FVCC; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Steven Michael Cameron, 71

Steven Michael Cameron passed away Oct. 25, 2019, at the age of 71, but his larger-than-life persona and trademark stubbornness will not be forgotten.

Hans W Polte, 85

Dr. Hans W Polte, 85, passed away on Oct. 13, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. FVCC; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the center, 126 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell.

Bigfork Eagle flies again; on newsstands today

After a nearly four-year hiatus, the Bigfork Eagle has landed — again.

Rodeo queen's horse shot on first day of hunting season

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office is seeking any information related to a tragic domestic animal shooting that occurred west of Marion off U.S. 2, in which a woman’s horse was shot through its shoulder and later had to be euthanized.

Spooky door has life of its own

Someone might have been influenced by the Halloween season when she called the Kalispell Police Department to report a suspicious screen door that had been flapping in the wind for more than a day. Law enforcement investigated and determined the building was secure and it was “just an old screen door blowing in the wind.”

Lanis Leander Reynolds, 79

Lanis Leander Reynolds was born June 26, 1940.

Richard Tate Sauerbier, 73

Richard Tate Sauerbier of Kalispell passed in peace on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, under hospice care at Brendan House, at the age of 73.

Whitefish Mountain named No. 3 overall ski resort

SKI Magazine has named Whitefish Mountain Resort as the “No. 3 overall” ski resort in North America — the popular Whitefish resort’s highest ranking yet by the news outlet.

Supreme Court halts Lamb legal proceedings

The case against a Whitefish man accused of murdering his boyfriend in 2018 is in limbo after the Montana Supreme Court recently halted legal proceedings.

Kalispell sets daily record low

Flathead Valley residents woke up to record-cold temperatures Tuesday morning as the thermometer dipped below zero for the first time this fall.

Polson man sentenced for gun crime

A Polson man who admitted possessing a handgun after having been convicted of a felony was sentenced Thursday in federal court to three years in prison and three years of supervised release.

Flathead Electric taking applications for Youth Tour

Flathead Electric Cooperative is accepting applications for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Youth Tour to Washington, D.C.

FVCC math instructor receives leadership award

Flathead Valley Community College instructor Fred Longhart recently was honored by the Montana Council of Teachers of Mathematics for his significant contributions to the teaching and learning of mathematics in the state of Montana.

BBB: Tech-savvy tools pose new threat for kids

GPS-connected smart watches are among a growing trend of online devices marketed as keeping children safe and providing parents peace of mind. Ironically, those same devices also may give predators a new way to track children’s location, steal their data, and send deceptive information to parents, according to the Better Business Bureau.

Former Griz football player has Olympic aspirations

Gage Smith had never been in a bobsled before last year. But the former walk-on for the University of Montana football team is no stranger to a big challenge.

Where, oh where, is my old hound dog?

A man told the Kalispell Police Department his old, blue tick hound had been missing for about three hours. He said the dog is old, can’t see well, but still has a good nose. The man said the dog kind of looks like a Rottweiler, is very skinny and doesn’t wear a collar.

Sixth DUI conviction lands woman in jail

A sixth DUI conviction that left a man severely injured earlier this year has landed a Hungry Horse woman behind bars after a recent court hearing in Flathead County District Court.

Flathead Reservation Fish & Wildlife meeting Oct. 30

The Flathead Reservation Fish and Wildlife Board will meet Wednesday, Oct. 30, at the National Bison Range in Moiese.

Johnston leads ASU at Tavistock Invitational

Arizona State freshman Ryggs Johnston recently ended as the Sun Devil leader in the final fall event for the men’s golf team at the Tavistock Collegiate Invitational at Isleworth Golf and Country Club in Windermere, Fla.

Date changed for AA semifinal soccer games

The Class AA soccer semifinal games set for today have been rescheduled due to severe winter weather.

Big game opener 'slightly below average'

Montana renewed a time-honored tradition last weekend with the start of the general big game hunting season.

Chicken-eating grizzly euthanized in Ferndale

An adult female grizzly bear was euthanized Oct. 25 in Ferndale after Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials determined the animal had become food-conditioned in a residential area, according to a press release.

Chop wood, carry water

The small ivory figurine that stands on a windowsill in my living room was given to me by a friend way back in high school, which makes our relationship — with both my girlfriend and the figurine — older than the one with my husband.

All he wanted to do was to take a relaxing soak

Someone called the Kalispell Police Department to report a neighbor’s German shepherd had entered his yard, tore it up and chewed up his hot tub. An officer determined that the neighbors will work it out.

Letters to the editor Oct. 28

October is national anti-bullying prevention month. White House First Lady Melania Trump supports anti-bullying through her Be Best initiative. Governments, churches, schools and businesses have all stepped up to oppose bullying. And yet, hate still comes to town.

Health providers see hope on the horizon with integrated approach

Kate Whipple-Kilmer said when her current job as a licensed clinical psychologist in Sanders County opened up in 2014, it was a “serendipitous” moment.

Trego cowboy Eash wins all-around title

Trego’s Gerald Eash won his fourth all-around cowboy championship and Shai McDonald of Gardiner won her first all-around title during the Northern Rodeo Association and Northern Women’s Rodeo Association Finals Saturday night at Majestic Valley Arena north of Kalispell.

Bone-chilling cold on tap for Halloween week

Halloween skeletons beware; forecasters say it will be bone-chilling cold this week across Northwest Montana.

Rural providers make the best of dwindling resources

About a dozen loudly colored paintings featuring moose, forests and beaches are proudly mounted on one of the mint-colored walls in Sindy Filler’s Libby office.

Elk hunters, be engaged and be heard

I watched and listened in awe during my first year of hunting elk as a large bull screamed, nose flared, while he herded his cows from his bugling challenger. That was in 1979 and a lot has changed over the past 40 years.

Daoud wants to encourage positive growth in Kalispell

Q. What are the most challenging economic growth issues facing Kalispell, and what solutions do you propose for handling growth?

Montana physicians support emergency vaping ban

The Montana Medical Association represents more than 1,400 physicians and other medical professionals throughout Montana. We are writing to express our support of the vaping ban proposed by Governor Bullock and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS). Delaying this action poses a significant health risk to the citizens of Montana.

Relocated grizzly bear attacked biologist in 2018

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials stand by a decision to relocate a grizzly bear that attacked a biologist last year after it recently was caught trying to get into a barn south of Libby.

GOP Chairman: Support candidates with Montana values

Montanans work best when we work together. However, recent calls for the President’s impeachment, from Montana’s own Steve Bullock and other Democrat state leaders will deter progress and invite more gridlock. And even though Montanans of all political stripes expect our representatives to roll up their sleeves and work to deliver results for their constituents, one political party’s primary strategy is to actively work against progress ahead of next November’s election. A purely political decision, and the American people will suffer as a result.

No headline

- Free Halloween Carnival, 5-6:30 p.m. for kids of all ages, First Presbyterian Church, 540 S. Main St., Kalispell. Games, candy, pizza, crafts.

No puppy love for new dog owner

Someone reported a new puppy owner to the Kalispell Police Department. The suspicious owner came into the woman’s store and told her about his new puppy, but the woman was concerned because she saw on social media a puppy had been stolen. She didn’t see the subject puppy or get any information about the suspected burglar, nor did she have any surveillance in the store.

No headline

- Free Halloween Carnival, 5-6:30 p.m. for kids of all ages, First Presbyterian Church, 540 S. Main St., Kalispell. Games, candy, pizza, crafts.

Ice rink gets foundation grant for resurfacer

The Whitefish Community Foundation has awarded a Major Community Project Grant of $30,000 to the Stumptown Ice Den. The grant was announced as a surprise at the Great Fish awards presentation Oct. 10.

Outdoorsman chronicles the wild life in his new photo book

Kjell Petersen has spent most of life exploring the wild lands of the West, but a year ago the 71-year-old was still searching for a legacy.

Proposed Conrad Drive roundabout focus of open house

There will be an open house for a proposed roundabout project at the intersection of Woodland Avenue, Second Street East and Conrad Drive from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday at the Kalispell City Council Chambers, 201 First Ave. E.

Letters to the editor Oct. 27

I live a few blocks from the proposed installation of a roundabout for the Woodland Park intersection. I traverse that intersection four or more times per day, almost every day of the year. My travels are at varied times during each day. A roundabout would be disastrous for motorists and pedestrians.

No headline

- Free Halloween Carnival, 5-6:30 p.m. for kids of all ages, First Presbyterian Church, 540 S. Main St., Kalispell. Games, candy, pizza, crafts.

Mental-health needs in frontier communities

Facing a serious budget shortfall in 2017, the Montana Legislature was forced to slash $120 million from the state’s general fund. The state health department took the brunt of those cuts, to the tune of nearly $50 million. Other cuts would follow, and by the time the dust settled, more than $95 million in funding was gutted from the department.

LOCAL JUICE MAKER BRANCHING OUT

Susan and Gary Snow have poured just about everything into their cherry juice, and after more than a decade of operating Tabletree, they are finally seeing the fruits of their labors.

Trego cowboy tops saddle bronc in second round of rodeo finals

The second round of the Northern Rodeo Association/Northern Women’s Rodeo Association Finals Friday night at Majestic Valley Arena in Kalispell was a good night for Gerald Eash of Trego, who was the second-round winner in saddle bronc riding, with a score of 78.5.

Budget cuts in 2017 significantly impacted hyper-rural areas

Mental-health providers across Montana remember 2017 as the year the state’s mental health-care system — careworn and fragile as Montanans’ needs for services outstripped available resources — suffered a financial blow that devastated organizations in every corner of the state.

Glacier High senior goes the distance for community service

Glacier High School senior Drew Engellant is described as a kind and giving person who leads by example and is respected by his peers and teachers.

Donna Beverly Matthews, 86

On June 26, 1933, at Fort Belknap, Montana, Donna was the first child born to Juanita Lova Hintt and Andrew Harvey-Shortman.

Woman confuses police for taxi service

A woman called the Kalispell Police Department because she was “freezing” and couldn’t get a ride. She was advised that was not an emergency and an officer was going to come talk to her about “the proper use of 911.” The caller subsequently “displayed her distaste” for the dispatcher, asked for the person’s name and threatened to sue. When an officer went looking for her he couldn’t find her.

Zone change paves way for medical center at 'Cedar Palace'

The Columbia Falls City Council on Monday approved a zone change for the former Weyerhaeuser “Cedar Palace” office complex from light industrial to commercial business, which paves the way for the building to be used as a medical facility.

Veleen 'Val' Joy (Johnson) Hanson, 80

Veleen “Val” Joy (Johnson) Hanson, 80, passed away peacefully with family at her side on Oct. 23, 2019, in Dayton, Ohio, where she had lived for the past year. Daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt and grandmother, Val was always, at heart, a teacher.

Ward 3 challenger touts background in planning

Dixie Lee Emerson, 81

Dixie Lee Emerson, 81, passed away on Oct. 18, 2019, after complications following heart surgery.

Whitefish man who injured pedestrians gets deferred sentence

A Whitefish man who struck and nearly killed two people while driving drunk last summer received a deferred sentence Thursday morning in Flathead County District Court.

Whitefish boys advance to Class A final

WHITEFISH — A day that started with sweeping snow off the pitch ended in sunshine and another trip to the Class A state final for the undefeated 14-0 Whitefish Bulldogs boys soccer team.

Pair of wins for Wolfpack soccer in AA quarterfinals

The Glacier Wolfpack girls soccer team continued their historic season with a 3-2 overtime win against No. 4 C.M. Russell on Saturday at Glacier High School in a Class AA quarterfinal game.

Stillwater spikers MCAA state champs

The Stillwater Cougars won the MCAA state volleyball championship on Saturday defeating Yellowstone County Home School.

Stillwater boys soccer repeat MCAA champs

Stillwater Christian School boys soccer team took home its second consecutive MCAA state championship title with a 4-0 win over Helena Christian School on Saturday.

Glacier's Hill takes AA title; C-Falls, Eureka boys state champs

GREAT FALLS — It was an eventful day for Flathead Valley teams at the All-Class State Cross Country Tournament at Eagle Falls Golf Course in Great Falls on Saturday.

PHOTOS: Eureka runs past Bigfork, 44-6

Photos from Eureka vs. Bigfork in a Class B high school football matchup at Bigfork High School on Friday. Eureka won, 44-6.

Strong winds knock out power in Whitefish area

A power outage Friday afternoon affected more than 7,000 households served by Flathead Electric Cooperative in the Whitefish area and the U.S. 93 corridor between Whitefish and Kalispell.

NRA/NWRA post first-round winners

Rodeo action continues tonight and Saturday

Kaleb Norstrom of East Helena was a first-round winner in bareback, and Andrew Evjene of Two Dot had the top score in saddle bronc riding at the Northern Rodeo Association and Northern Women’s Rodeo Association Finals Thursday night at Majestic Valley Arena north of Kalispell.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Glacier Bank Bigfork; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Flathead City-County Health Department.

Montana big game season opens tomorrow

This weekend marks the beginning of the general big game hunting season in Montana.

Urban sprawl a top issue for Ward 3 incumbent Rod Kuntz

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Glacier Bank Bigfork; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Flathead City-County Health Department.

Out-of-state granny falsely framed

A young boy called the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to report illicit substances in his grandmother’s house. When officers contacted the boy’s mother, they found out his grandmother lives in another state and he had not seen her in four years.

No headline

- Red Cross blood drives: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Glacier Bank Bigfork; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Flathead City-County Health Department.

PacificCorp to add parking to Bigfork nature trail

A new parking lot to service the east side of the Swan River Nature Trail may be constructed as early as 2020. During the Oct. 17 meeting of the Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork, President Paul Mutascio related a letter from PacificCorp, owner of the Bigfork Hydroelectric Plant, detailing plans to construct a 10-space lot where the trail meets Swan River Road. PacificCorp is constructing the lot as part of their requirements for compliance with their Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license and Bigfork Settlement Agreement. As part of these agreements, PacificCorp is required to make recreation facility improvements to the area, such as the addition of parking.

Glacier's Sperry Chalet reconstruction completed

Crews recently wrapped up work on reconstructing the Sperry Chalet in Glacier National Park. Aside for some punch-list items next summer, the two-year effort to rebuild the chalet is complete.

Take Back Day offers safe drug disposal

This Saturday, Northwest Montana residents can easily dispose of unwanted prescription medications as part of the biannual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Burglars get state prison time for numerous crimes

Two Flathead County residents who pleaded guilty to their respective roles in a string of 2018 burglaries that included the theft of a puppy and a dog’s cremains were sentenced to the Montana State Prison Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Former Kila resident a finalist in Island Idol

Former Kila resident Sabrina Jordan, 17, is one of eight finalists in Hawaii’s 2019 Island Idol competition, in which the vocalist with the most online votes will move on to audition for American Idol producers in Los Angeles.

Undefeated Lions roar past Vikings

BIGFORK — Chet McCully and Austin Sartori each scored two touchdowns for the Eureka Lions as they beat the Bigfork Vikings 44-6 and stayed undefeated in Western B football at Bigfork High School on Friday.

Wildkats' title bid falls short in semifinal loss

COLUMBIA FALLS — Josie Windauer, Flora Jarvis, Lexi Purcell and Graceanne Sevesind made their way down the length of the soccer field at Columbia Falls High School for maybe the last time. Hand-in-hand, there were smiles, tears and embraces as they walked.

Home soccer semifinal doubleheader for Dawgs

Whitefish High School boys and girls soccer teams both host home games today against Billings Central in a Class A semifinal game at Smith Fields.

Glacier girls, boys prep for AA quarterfinal

For the Class AA quarterfinals, Glacier High School’s boys soccer team goes on the road to play Billings Senior and its girls team hosts Great Falls C.M. Russell.

Wildkats 'locked in' for semifinal against Laurel

It’s about the present, not what comes after.

Wolfpack spikers top Knights in four

The Glacier Wolfpack bounced back from a loss in the third set to beat the Missoula Hellgate Knights in Western AA volleyball on Thursday at Glacier High School.

Halloween fun for over 21 gets rolling this weekend

Got a costume? Get down to one of these Halloween parties guaranteed to get a little rowdy!

Halloween family fun starts this week

Get ready for a weekend of parties, movies, trick or treating and carnivals. The fun starts this week!

Whitefish Theatre's warm-hearted comedy entertains all ages

This is the closing weekend for Whitefish Theatre Co.’s hilarious family comedy “Over the River and Through the Woods.” Performances are at 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday, Oct. 24, Oct. 25 and 26, at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Local favorite Silverado mixes classic country and rock

Silverado will be jamming at the Kalispell Eagles on Saturday, Oct. 26. The show starts at 7 p.m. and the band plays until 11 p.m. Cover charge is $6 for Eagles members and $7 for nonmembers.

Flathead High puts on play-within-a-play murder mystery

The Flathead High School Theatre Department presents the mystery “Rehearsal for Murder” today through Saturday, Oct. 24, Oct. 25 and 26, at 6:27 p.m. in the David M. Hashley Theatre at Flathead High School.

Whitefish High thespians tackle teen drama

Whitefish High School Drama Club presents its fall production of “The Wolves” by Sarah de Lappe this weekend.

The Met's 'Manon' live in HD in Whitefish

The Metropolitan Opera’s production of Jules Massenet’s “Manon,” an opera that tells the tale of an enchanting heroine who wants both love and luxury, will be broadcast at 10:55 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Weekly events

THURSDAY, OCT. 24

Bigfork Community Players stage mystery classic

“Life is a mystery,” suggests Michele Shapero, who directs Agatha Christie’s mystery, “The Mousetrap,” opening Friday, Oct. 25, in Bigfork.

Country artist Glen Templeton opens NRA Finals

American country singer and songwriter Glen Templeton is taking the lyrics to heart from one of his favorite covers, Merle Haggard’s “Big City,” and “turning himself loose and setting himself free somewhere in the middle of Montana” for two pre-NRA rodeos this week at Majestic Valley Arena in Kalispell.

Minnesota man accused of DUI deaths turns himself into authorities

A Minnesota man charged in the deaths of two Kalispell women who died in a July 4 traffic crash on Montana 35 has turned himself in to Flathead County authorities.

Powers appointed to vacant House District 3 seat

The Flathead County Commissioners on Wednesday appointed Debo Powers of Polebridge to the vacant House District 3 legislative seat.

Decades later, Crooks bull still No. 1

The day Terry Crooks arrowed an elk that still ranks first in the Montana record books, his plan was to put his hunting buddy in front of a bull.

Great Fish in a league of its own

When it comes to raising money for nonprofits, the Whitefish Community Foundation’s Great Fish Community Challenge is in a league of its own, a true marvel of community spirit and support.

MontanaSky installs downtown fiber-optic line

MontanaSky is in the process of installing fiber-optic cables through downtown Columbia Falls to provide faster and more reliable internet service to local businesses.

Letters to the editor Oct. 24

I just wanted to applaud the police force for their enforcement on the nationwide issue of drivers and school buses. On U.S. 93 between Whitefish and Kalispell, I was on my commute to work Friday morning, “stuck” behind the bus.” Everyone’s moan.

CHS closing downtown grain elevator; begins move to rail park

CHS will stop operating its downtown Kalispell grain elevator by the end of the week, according to CHS Mountain West Co-op General Manager Mark Lalum.

Wrong Facebook page could signal intruder

Although nothing was missing, a woman told the Kalispell Police Department she believed someone was inside her business within the last 12 hours because “someone else’s Facebook page was pulled up on the computer.”

Kalispell mayor condemns vandalism, bigotry

The Kalispell City Council discussed homelessness, a recent spike in vandalism and other issues at a brief meeting Tuesday evening.

Authorities investigate deer poaching incident

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 1 officials are investigating a deer poaching incident that occurred in the Flathead Valley.

ViZn Energy facility damaged in blaze

The ViZn Energy facility on U.S. 2 West outside Columbia Falls was damaged by an early morning fire Wednesday.

Whitefish schools super to resign

Whitefish Schools Superintendent Heather Davis Schmidt on Monday submitted her resignation to the Board of Trustees, effective at the end of the 2019-20 school year.

Women anxious to report 'methed-out' man

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a call from two women “talking at once” on speaker phone to report a man who was supposedly “floating down the street methed out” on U.S. 93 in Whitefish.

Nunnally wants policies, tax rates that encourage growth

Karen Joann Sanderson, 48

On Aug. 30, 1971, the musician, Sandy Sanderson, and hairdresser, Patti Knapton Sanderson, were thrilled to give birth to their first child, Karen Joann Sanderson in Whitefish. Karen’s childhood was idyllic and complete when brother Logan came along. Being a fifth generation Montanan from the Flathead Valley, Karen was surrounded by the love of a large extended family. Karen graduated from Flathead High School in 1989 and obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Communications degree from University of Montana in 1993. Karen’s family and many lifelong friends made while in high school, college, the Kappa Alpha Theta house and beyond are left to mourn the sudden loss of dear Karen. She passed on Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, after a short bout of lung cancer.

Henry 'Hank' Slemberger, 100

Henry “Hank” Slemberger, 100, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, at his home in Kalispell.

William Jay 'Jess' Johnson, 92

William Jay “Jess” Johnson of Whitefish passed away at the age of 92 on Oct. 5, 2019, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls. Jess was born in Wolf Point on May 5, 1927, to Will and Emma Johnson. He graduated from Wolf Point High School where he played football, basketball and participated in choir. After graduation he joined the U.S. Navy Pacific Fleet during World War II and served on an LCI amphibious assault ship in the Philippines, as a seaman 1st class.

Glacier has busiest September on record

Glacier National Park recorded its busiest September ever, with just under 489,000 visitors turning the gates. That number is impressive considering the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road was closed for two weeks from Avalanche Creek to Logan Pass for road work.

Comments on trail project accepted until Nov. 19

The Kalispell City Council is accepting comments on a Supplemental Environmental Assessment on the potential effects of proposed changes to the Glacier Rail Park and Kalispell Trail Project until 5 p.m. on Nov. 19.

Georgette L. Foster, 81

Georgette L. Foster, 81, passed away at her home in Kalispell on Oct. 17, 2019.

Patrick scores 2, Wolfpack shuts down Bulldogs

High winds that picked up during the second half made things a little more difficult for the Glacier Wolfpack girls soccer team but they’d already scored all the goals they needed by then.

Glacier stuns Flathead 2-1 in playoff thriller

For one side it was ecstasy, for the other it was agony.

Flathead spikers best Hellgate in 4

The Flathead Bravette spikers got back on track with a four set victory over Missoula Hellgate at Flathead High School on Tuesday in Western AA volleyball.

Cyberattack on Kalispell Regional breaches patient data

A data breach at Kalispell Regional Healthcare earlier this year may have compromised the personal information of nearly 130,000 patients, hospital officials reported on Tuesday.

Soda machine sprays toxic substance

Kalispell Police Department responded to a parent’s concern that soda machines on Sixth Street West were possibly sprayed with pepper spray after their daughters’ hands and eyes were reportedly “burning and red” after they got sodas. Police determined pepper spray was sprayed into the soda machine dispensers and may need to be cleaned. “Out of order” signs were reportedly posted and a service employee contacted to clean the machines.

FVCC Campus Farm shares bounty with Flathead Food Bank

This summer, the Flathead Valley Community College campus farm donated more than a ton — 2,200 pounds to be exact — of produce to the Flathead Food Bank, providing much-needed fresh vegetables to thousands of local individuals and families in need.

Flathead Lutheran camp dedicates wheelchair-accessible cabin complex

Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp has opened the doors to its newest facility — a wheelchair-accessible complex that includes two cabins and a community room overlooking Flathead Lake.

Home games highlight start of AA soccer playoffs

Class AA playoffs for boys and girls begin today with Flathead Valley teams playing games in Kalispell and Helena.

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Supervisor announces retirement

Flathead National Forest Supervisor Chip Weber has announced plans to retire on Jan. 1, 2020, after a 30-year career that took him to four different regions and seven different national forests nationwide.

Authorities investigate family shooting in Trego

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting involving two family members in the Trego area.

Kalispell man ID'd in fatal shooting

A 53-year-old Kalispell man is dead after he was fatally shot by a man he knew at an Eighth Avenue West residence Saturday evening.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 283-7000.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 283-7000.

Whitefish parking plan calls for better enforcement

The Whitefish City Council tonight is poised to adopt a parking management plan that maps out the details about how the city can better manage its existing downtown parking resources before needing to construct new parking garages.

Eerie growl spooks woman

A woman told Kalispell Police Department a man came to her front door and then she allegedly heard something growling on the back porch.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 283-7000.

City holds hearing on new stormwater ordinance

The Kalispell City Council will hold a public hearing tonight on a new, more comprehensive stormwater ordinance.

Longtime massage therapist trains next generation

Michael Eayrs’ healing touch has been felt across the state.

Births NVH and KRMC

Brynlee Grace Price, daughter of Dyllon and Cassidy Price of Eureka, was born July 1 at North Valley Hospital.

2 detained in suspected Kalispell homicide

Two people were detained Saturday evening in connection with a suspected homicide in Kalispell.

The last, most congested park

The National Park Service is stepping up to address the Going-to-the-Sun Road congestion issue, but I believe their announced plan will not deliver the scale of improvements necessary to reset the visitors experience back to The Last, Best Place promise of days past.

Carving out a niche in the furniture world

Pumpkin spice belongs in pie

After years of listening to co-workers, friends and pretty much all of America gush about pumpkin spice, I finally took the plunge this week and ordered my first-ever pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks.

State commission endorses Stillwater easement

During a meeting on Thursday, the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks Commission endorsed a new 1,000-acre conservation easement project along the Stillwater River, located about 10 miles north of Whitefish.

Myrtle M. Strodtbeck, 103

Myrtle M. Strodtbeck was born at the family homestead near Bloomfield, Montana, on Jan. 28, 1916; she moved on to her final destination on Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2019 at the age of 103.

He came in through an unspecified window

A woman told the Kalispell Police Department a burglar entered an apartment through a window. The alleged thief left mud tracks on the window and floor but apparently didn’t steal anything.

Ardith Faye De Raad, 78

Ardith Faye De Raad was born in Torrington, Wyoming, Sept, 19, 1941, and passed away Oct. 13, 2019.

Frances 'Frannie' Lula Uken, 78

Frances “Frannie” Lula Uken of Columbia Falls passed away Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019, at the age of 78 due to complications from Parkinson’s disease. She left this life gently and gracefully.

Family's rotating Halloween displays are a spooky neighborhood attraction

The Jones family Halloween skeleton project on Kalispell’s west side began simply enough.

Ciao interior designer wins prestigious award

Kalispell-based interior designer Les Bernabi recently won a Designer of the Year award for 2019 from the Interior Design Society.

Steven Andrew Hasson, 32

Steven Andrew Hasson, 32, passed away Sept.19, 2019.

Whitefish startup competes in statewide contest

Whitefish tech startup Tourbase is set to compete with 11 other Montana-based startups in the second-annual Early Stage Montana Statewide Showcase on Nov. 7 in Missoula.

Daniel Stromme, 59

Daniel Stromme, 59, passed away Sept. 16, 2019, in Missoula after being transferred from Heritage Place in Kalispell.

James 'Jim' Glen Bray, 79

“Family and friends, say goodbye to an amazing man!”

Why the U.S.-Japan trade deal matters for Montana

As United States Senator from Montana, and as a rancher from Miles City serving as the president of the Montana Stockgrowers Association, we took a major step forward last week for Montana ag. Together, we worked to accomplish a historic trade deal between the U.S. and Japan - one that will benefit Montana’s farmers and ranchers for generations to come.

Neil David Van Sickle, 104

Neil David Van Sickle, of Kalispell, died of natural causes on Sept. 29, 2019.

Hemp facility in Libby expects to hire 120 workers

About 210 people, most from Lincoln County, have applied for jobs at Isotex Health since the hemp production company closed a deal to buy the old Stinger building in Libby on Sept. 26.

Letters to the editor Oct. 20

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 283-7000.

We must invest in rural public schools

As I travel around Montana I often speak with teachers, professors and students concerned about the cost and ability to access quality education. Rural communities know that a public school in their town is a tent-pole for the community. Once a rural area loses a school in their town, the community really starts to struggle. It is also difficult to recruit teachers to Montana’s schools because by some measures Montana has the lowest starting pay for a new teacher.

Lois Jean Thielen, 86

Lois Jean Thielen, 86, of Kalispell, died Monday, Oct. 14, 2019.

Project brings VA care closer to home

Rural Montana veterans often get the short end of the stick when it comes to reliable, timely access to health care.

Mary Jane Thramer, 70

Our precious Mary passed from this world peacefully in her sleep on Oct. 10, 2019, with husband Tom at her side and bathed in the love of her family.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 283-7000.

Genevieve Barbara Schrammeck, 92

Genevieve Barbara Schrammeck, 92, of Kalispell, passed away on Oct. 16 at Brendan House. She was a wonderful wife and mother, and will be dearly missed by family and friends.

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- AARP Driver Safety Course, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Libby Christian Church. $20 fee ($15 for AARP card-holding members.) Call 283-7000.

From lynx studies to social media, park partner eyes 2020 projects

It has been two decades since the Glacier National Park Fund was founded, and as the nonprofit fundraising arm for the park — now known as the Glacier National Park Conservancy — heads into a new year, a record-breaking 75 grant projects will be supported by donor dollars in 2020.

Longtime councilor Karper leans on experience

Playoff wins for Dawgs, C-Falls girls

WHITEFISH — Up 2-1 with a few minutes left in the first half, the Whitefish Bulldogs were looking for an insurance goal.

Wildcats XC champs, Whitefish girls runners-up at Western A Divisional

CORVALLIS — The Columbia Falls boys cross country team captured the Western A divisional title at the Western A Fall Classic in Corvallis on Saturday.

Stillwater Christian finishes soccer season at home tourney

Stillwater Christian School hosted the North West Specialty Schools Tournament this weekend to wrap up their season.

Bigfork tall hall meeting planned Monday

A group of local volunteers is hosting a town hall meeting at Bigfork High School at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 21, to update community members on various projects and initiatives.

Council making progress on 'malfunction junction' redesign

The Kalispell City Council worked on the nuts and bolts of a proposed redesign of Airport Road, First Avenue West and 16th Street — Kalispell’s own ‘malfunction junction’ — at its Oct. 14 work session.

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- Fall Fest, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wayfarer Unit, Flathead Lake State Park. Hayrides, scavenger hunt, face painting, arts and crafts, sidewalk chalk competition, costume contest for all ages (and your dog), and a 3K run with registration 10:30 a.m. Call 406-837-3041.?

Timber tour connects residents to their roots

Since 1997, the Flathead Timber Tour has been helping local residents see the forest for the trees.

Repeat offender removed from penthouse

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Department responded to a woman in the penthouse suite at a ski resort hotel yelling profanities and throwing things at a hotel employee. She had previously been removed from a lodge in Columbia Falls. She was taken to Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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- Fall Fest, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wayfarer Unit, Flathead Lake State Park. Hayrides, scavenger hunt, face painting, arts and crafts, sidewalk chalk competition, costume contest for all ages (and your dog), and a 3K run with registration 10:30 a.m. Call 406-837-3041.?

Renovations underway on Gateway Center's east parking lot

Renovations have started on an approximately $450,000 project to overhaul the east-side parking lot of the Gateway Community Center in Kalispell.

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- Fall Fest, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wayfarer Unit, Flathead Lake State Park. Hayrides, scavenger hunt, face painting, arts and crafts, sidewalk chalk competition, costume contest for all ages (and your dog), and a 3K run with registration 10:30 a.m. Call 406-837-3041.?

Glacier High's Ascent program prepares students for adulthood

A group of 19 Glacier High School students in a program called Ascent are climbing closer toward young adulthood and a goal to graduate.

Columbia Falls native Piper puts focus on local residents

GHS names Honor Society inductees

There are 97 new members of the Glacier High School chapter of the National Honor Society.

Glacier shuts down Flathead

A dominant defensive display helped Glacier roll over Flathead 42-0 in Friday night’s Western AA football crosstown clash at Legends Stadium on Friday.

Whitefish, Libby clinch playoff spots

WHITEFISH — Jack Alton ran in two touchdowns as the Whitefish Bulldogs took down Stevensville in Western A football on Friday, which was also Whitefish’s senior night.

Local title contenders galore in Class A soccer

Class A soccer playoffs begin today with quarterfinals and there are a number of possible title contenders that hail from the Flathead Valley.

Interior activities generated $3 billion in Montana last year

The U.S. Department of the Interior’s activities in energy, recreation, non-fuel minerals, irrigation and conservation contributed to $3 billion in economic activity and 25,000 jobs in Montana in fiscal year 2018, according to the department’s economic report released Tuesday.

Great Fish Challenge delivers $2.8M to nonprofits

The Great Fish Community Challenge hit another high this year, raising a total of more than $2.8 million for 53 nonprofits.

Workshop aims to find balance for Whitefish visitation

The Whitefish Sustainable Tourism Management Plan steering committee invites the Whitefish community to participate in a workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22, at Whitefish City Hall. Tourism is one important part of a diverse Whitefish economy. While it provides many benefits to Whitefish, there are also real stresses on the community from peak season visitation that creates year-round effects on residents, according to committee chair Lauren Oscilowski.

Eureka VFW hosts pilot project for veteran care

EUREKA – A potential national breakthrough in veterans’ health care is being piloted in an unlikely rural location.

Man has a hunch if quarters are missing

An employee on Nucleus Avenue wanted to let Columbia Falls Police Department know about a man who was a “known thief,” just in case law enforcement had a “case of missing quarters.” The man allegedly came in “with a bunch of quarters” to use in a coin machine, yet it wasn’t clear from the report where the “thief” label came in.

Lundgren supports resort tax under certain circumstances

PHOTOS: Glacier cruises past Flathead, 42-0

Photos from Glacier’s 42-0 win over Flathead in a Class AA crosstown football matchup at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Friday.

Braves, Wolfpack ready for crosstown football clash

Two teams on somewhat divergent paths this season will converge tonight under the lights at Legends Stadium for Western AA crosstown football.

Flathead, Glacier wrap up regular season soccer

MISSOULA — The Flathead Braves finished off the regular season with a bang, beating Missoula Big Sky on Thursday in a Western AA game, 8-1.

Eureka boys win third straight divisional XC title

THOMPSON FALLS — For the third straight season, the Eureka boys cross country team were tops at the Western B championships on Wednesday in Thompson Falls.

Mike Dennison gets to the heart of Montana politics in new book

Veteran political reporter Mike Dennison is in Kalispell this week to talk about and sign copies of his new book, “Inside Montana Politics: A Reporter’s View from the Trenches.”

Flathead High School stages classic 'Whodunit?'

The Flathead High School Theatre Department will present the theatrical mystery “Rehearsal for Murder” Oct. 24, 25 and 26 at 6:27 p.m. in the David M. Hashley Theatre at Flathead High School.

Whitefish Drama Club presents 'The Wolves'

Whitefish High School Drama Club presents its fall production of “The Wolves” by Sarah de Lappe.

Local students take on 'Frozen JR.'

ATP Kids, Alpine Theatre Project’s theater education program, performs “Frozen JR.” this weekend at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Eldred's 'On the Stage' finale features Sylvia

Mike Eldred closes his “On the Stage” 2019 season with an intimate concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26, featuring Academy of Country Music Female Vocalist of the Year and platinum-selling recording artist Sylvia. General admission tickets for the show at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center are $48, on sale now at www.amazingplacemusic.com/on-the-stage or by calling 406-471-0851.

Weekly events

THURSDAY, OCT. 17

Illegally introduced walleyes discovered in Upper Thompson Lake

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologists found two walleyes in Upper Thompson Lake last week during a routine fisheries survey. This is the first documented detection of the predacious non-native fish in Lincoln County and is an illegal introduction.

Judge orders Two Bears Family Center to vacate facility

A Flathead County District Court judge on Wednesday denied a request from Two Bears Family Center LLC for a preliminary injunction against the organization’s former fiscal agent, Northwest Montana United Way and its executive director, and further ordered the organization to vacate its suite at the Gateway Community Center by noon today.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Policy and Communications Committee meets 8:30 a.m., superintendent’s office.

Letters to the editor Oct. 17

I served on Kalispell City Council for five years with Rod Kuntz. From the beginning of his first term he was knowledgeable of the needs of the community and demonstrated a heart for what was best for the citizens he served.

Whitefish Theatre Co. opens season with family comedy

The Whitefish Theatre Co.’s first main-stage theater production of the season is the hilarious family comedy “Over the River and Through the Woods,” written by award-winning playwright Joe DiPietro (“I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change”, “Memphis”).

Creston teen honored for helping at accident

On Aug. 23, 16-year-old Lucy Megerth’s ordinary day ended with an act of heroism.

Man strikes out in Lakeside bar fight

An extremely intoxicated man who got into a bar fight on U.S. 93 in Lakeside was allegedly hit in the head with a baseball bat and was bleeding. Medics requested a deputy ride in the ambulance due to the man’s “violent nature” as he was supposedly screaming profanities at the medics and law enforcement. He was advised to call when he sobered up if he wished to pursue filing a report.

Deal will ease westside parking crunch

The frustrating parking situation in Kalispell’s westside neighborhood is poised to improve greatly in the coming years.

Kalispell leaf collection runs through Nov. 15

The Kalispell Public Works Department will be collecting leaves from through Nov. 15. An announcement about the leaf collection emphasized they will not collect leaves outside of this time-frame.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Policy and Communications Committee meets 8:30 a.m., superintendent’s office.

Kalispell bike plan open house set at Wheaton's

There will be an open house on the Kalispell Pedestrian and Bike Plan from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 18, at Wheaton’s Cycle, 214 First Ave. W. The public is invited to share insight and discuss a bicycle route map for the proposed plan.

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- Kalispell Public Schools Policy and Communications Committee meets 8:30 a.m., superintendent’s office.

Hill tops boys XC field at Glacier Invite

Glacier’s Simon Hill continued his stellar cross country season by topping the boys field at the Glacier Invite at Rebecca Farm on Wednesday, a final primer before the Class AA state meet next weekend.

Grizzly cubs killed in train collision near Trego

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks discovered two grizzly bear cubs that were killed on the railroad tracks southeast of Trego.

C-Falls man sentenced to 20 years for homicide

A Flathead Valley man who pleaded guilty to shooting a Coram resident to death on Valentine’s Day this year received a 20-year sentence Wednesday in Flathead County District Court.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Whitefish Credit Union, Kalispell; noon to 5 p.m. Troy Baptist Church.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Whitefish Credit Union, Kalispell; noon to 5 p.m. Troy Baptist Church.

Whitefish sued over 93 South subdivision approval

A month after the Whitefish City Council approved a controversial five-lot subdivision on U.S. 93 South, a neighborhood group is suing the city of Whitefish, the council and the developer, Whitefish Housing Group, LLC, over a decision it claims “is riddled with legal violations.”

Greg Wayne Phillips, 73

Greg Phillips, beloved husband, father, brother and friend, died at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, Kalispell, on Oct. 11, 2019, surrounded by family and friends.

Lawsuit asks FAA to manage park overflights

Litigation aimed at forcing the Federal Aviation Administration to adopt long overdue mandatory air tour management plans for seven national parks — including Glacier National Park — has landed at the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington, D.C., for deliberation.

Hughes cites energy, passion for public service

Car theft, the new pain reliever?

Someone must have had quite the headache when they reportedly broke into an unlocked vehicle and took a bottle of ibuprofen and nothing else.

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- Red Cross blood drives: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Whitefish Credit Union, Kalispell; noon to 5 p.m. Troy Baptist Church.

Tour and shuttle business proposed in Whitefish

Two Whitefish residents intend to start a tour and shuttle business based in Whitefish and are seeking an administrative conditional-use permit for the operation.

Joan Arlue Sievers Strong, 79

Joan Arlue Sievers Strong was born on Oct. 13, 1939, in Kalispell to Henry Sievers and Bertha Baish Sievers, the latter formerly of Hinsdale, Illinois.

Margaret K. 'Marge' Keith, 85

Marge Keith, 85, of Kalispell, passed away with family by her side on Wednesday, Oct. 9, 2019, at Immanuel Lutheran Home.

Owners of dog found after 57 days host thank-you party

If every dog gets its day, then Sept. 15 will belong to 7-year-old border collie, Katie.

Leslie R. Potts, 69

Leslie R. Potts, 69, of Bigfork, passed away on Oct. 9, 2019, in Kalispell.

Wolfpack spikers sweep crosstown

The Glacier Wolfpack beat the Flathead Bravettes in four sets in Western AA crosstown volleyball at Flathead High School on Tuesday.

Glacier girls soccer wins Western AA conference title

In the last regular season home game and on senior night, the Glacier Wolfpack girls soccer team won the Western AA conference by beating Missoula Big Sky 3-1 on Tuesday at Glacier High School.

Tamarack Time! Fall Festival winners announced

Bigfork’s 31st annual Tamarack Time! Fall Festival drew hundreds of people to Electric Avenue to sample hundreds of special offerings from top local chefs. Approximately 395 visitors stopped to sample up to 13 categories of cuisine, ranging from cookies and pies to pickles and potatoes. The celebration of community fare brought in $1,975. The net proceeds will be donated to the Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork to aid in the upkeep of the Swan River Nature Trail. Next year’s Tamarack Time! will be held in downtown Bigfork on Oct. 10, 2020.

Jennifer Beall Bush, 45

Jennifer Lynn Bush passed away Oct. 8, 2019, after a long and fiercely fought battle against melanoma cancer.

Local businessman receives honorary military rank

After reading that actor Gary Sinise (Lt. Dan from “Forrest Gump”) had been recognized by an honorary promotion to chief petty officer for his untiring efforts on behalf of active duty military and veterans, the local VFW Post thought it would be appropriate to bestow a similar honorary promotion on a local resident who has also contributed so much to local National Guard, Reserve and veterans organizations, and their causes, according to a press release from the VFW.

Credit card abuse not about spending

Kalispell Police Department responded to a report from a woman who yelled at a man who allegedly entered her home using a credit card to open the lock. She told officers that she had filed a temporary restraining order against the man. Officers had a lengthy discussion with the man who “now knows not to go to the residence.”

C-Falls family embraces the rural life

“It started here,” Alyson Dorr said, sitting in her kitchen, looking out to fields on her family farm.

Elrod students take a crack at engineering

Once the Pacific Science Center’s Science on Wheels rolled into Elrod Elementary last week, kindergartners through fifth-graders put on their engineering thinking caps.

Federal government proposes to ease Stark Law regs

The Trump administration and Department of Health and Human Services recently proposed changes to the Stark Law and the Federal Anti-Kickback Statute in an effort to ease regulations on health care providers.

Alpine section of Sun Road closed for season

Due to continued winter weather, Glacier National Park will not reopen the alpine section of the Going-to-the-Sun Road to vehicles this season.

Letters to the editor Oct. 14

I feel compelled to respond the blatant lies the president is uttering in defense of his cowardly, criminal betrayal of the Kurds and the abetting of the aggression being carried out by Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his bloodthirsty, criminal regime as I write this.

Columbia Falls council OKs subdivision, nixes cabins

The Columbia Falls City Council voted unanimously last week to approve a new major subdivision east of the Flathead River outside Columbia Falls, but denied a planned-unit development proposal that would have also allowed 30 resort rental cabins on the same property.

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- Creston School board meets 8 a.m.

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- Creston School board meets 8 a.m.

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- Creston School board meets 8 a.m.

Kalispell council mulls $2M intersection project

The Kalispell City Council will discuss a $2 million intersection improvement project, as well as city bike racks and the city’s agreement with the City-County Board of Health at a work session this evening.

Lucifer pays a visit to Kalispell

Someone reported a “very agitated” man was sitting at a table swearing to himself, acting strange and yelling “I am Lucifer” and wanted Kalispell Police Department to remove him from the premises. The possibly intoxicated man was described wearing sunglasses, a red shirt, army-style jacket and red fingernail polish. He was told to leave the premises and complied.

'A warrior's spirit and a servant's heart' Kalispell police officer honored with top state award

The desire for a more fulfilling career led Cory Clarke to the law enforcement field more than a decade ago and now he is the 2019 Montana Association of Chiefs of Police Montana Officer of the Year.

Births NVH

Josephine Heide-Elizabeth Miller, daughter of Brianna and Sammy Miller of Kalispell, was born July 24 at North Valley Hospital.

Stillwater soccer drops two matches

SPOKANE, Wash. — Saturday was a rough day for the Stillwater Christian Cougar girls soccer team as it dropped two matches during a road trip to Spokane, Wash.

Polson downs Browning in volleyball

POLSON — Maggie Todd had 13 kills and seven digs as the Polson Pirates downed visiting Browning Saturday in volleyball action, 25-21, 25-17, 25-23.

Mary Schlesinger Conway, 70

Mary Schlesinger Conway died peacefully at home on Oct. 4, 2019.

Edith Lillian Atkinson Wylie, 107

Edith Lillian Atkinson Wylie, 107, gracefully passed away on Oct. 1, 2019, leaving her family and beloved friends with extraordinary memories and stories to cherish. A witty and gracious role model, Edith’s kindness and eagerness to embrace all who crossed her path will forever be the hallmark of goodwill. Edith’s 107 years of life evolved as the world progressed: from riding in a horse and buggy to riding in a self-driving Tesla automobile, from reading a newspaper to starting a Facebook page at age 93 and getting her news online; Edith embraced change as an opportunity to learn anew.

Myrtle Shenefelt Richmond, 93

Myrtle Shenefelt Richmond, 93, died Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2019, at WEL-Life Assisted Living in Kalispell where she had lived since February. She was the last of her generation.

Jennifer N. 'Jenny' Combs, 65

Jennifer N. “Jenny” Combs, 65, passed away Sept. 23, 2019.

Dogs' love of swimming, retrieving leads to national competitions

In the beginning, it wasn’t about the competition.

L. Jane Nelson-Ott, 79

On Oct. 7, 2019, L. Jane Nelson-Ott, 79, crossed the Rainbow Bridge to collect her dogs that had passed and reunite them all in their forever home with her and other special friends and family.

You say Marano? … I still say Marino

My brother-in-law John rented an apartment in September in the town of Giulianova near Pescara on the Adriatic coast of central Italy — the vicinity of his family’s paternal grandparents’ birthplace.

Roundabout eyed for Woodland, Conrad Drive intersection

The Montana Department of Transportation is working with the city of Kalispell on a proposed project to build a “mini-roundabout” at the awkward intersection of Woodland Avenue and Second Street East/Conrad Drive.

Mental-health awareness affects all of us

A Daily Inter Lake

Rosetta 'Rosie' Marian Burke, 84

Rosetta “Rosie” Marian Burke passed away at her home in Columbia Falls on Oct. 9, 2019, after a long and tenacious battle with cancer.

Alvin Raymond Sylling, 84

Alvin Raymond Sylling, beloved father and grandfather, departed on his next adventure to reunite with his Lord and his beloved Suzanne on Oct. 2, 2019, from WEL-Life Assisted Living in Kalispell. Born June, 1935, as the youngest of Alvin O. and Nettie Larson Sylling’s four children, Alvin possessed a lively sense of humor, an entrepreneurial spirit and an enduring love for his family and the people of his hometown, Big Timber. A curious child with many friends, Alvin regularly slipped away from his mother to visit every business and cafe in town. His love for adventure grew to include hikes into the mountains, a stowaway trip to Minnesota and a miraculous escape from a collision with a train. Big Timber also shaped his remarkable work ethic. After he paid off his first bank loan for a bicycle with money from his newspaper route, Alvin developed a zeal for hard work and entrepreneurship. From major construction jobs to building affordable housing, ranch work, a cowboy boot store, National Video stores, wholesaling Christmas trees and a car rental business, Alvin enjoyed exploring new horizons in business.

Whitefish clinics plan expansion to C-Falls

Glacier Medical Associates and OrthoRehab Physical Therapy of Whitefish are eyeing Plum Creek Timber Co.’s former office complex in Columbia Falls — known as the “Cedar Palace” — for a full-service medical clinic, but the zoning on the property needs to be changed to accommodate such a business use.

Benny Bee Sr., 75

Benny Bee Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, 75, went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2019, surrounded by his family.

Mayor addresses growth, challenges facing Whitefish

Whitefish Mayor John Muhlfeld drove into town for the first time on a Monday in July of 1995. He said Whitefish was like a “ghost town,” with just a few blinking traffic lights at 7:30 in the morning.

Letters to the editor Oct. 13

I am writing this letter in regards to the helicopter landing pad near Whitefish and the commercial use of it.

Incumbent willing to work on difficult issues

Q. What are the most challenging economic growth issues facing Whitefish, and what solutions do you propose for handling growth?

Bryan 'Cubby' Ross, 52

Gone but never forgotten.

Richard 'Dick' John Reed, 87

Richard “Dick” John Reed, born Aug. 19, 1932, in Winona, Minn., to Harold “Tom” Reed and Margaret “Peggy” (Thorpe) Reed, passed away Oct. 7, 2019.

Judy Ellen Quade, 73

Judy Ellen Quade went with Jesus on Sept. 29, 2019, surrounded by love, laughter from memories shared and heavy tears at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Whitefish, Bigfork win as season winds down

LIBBY — Seven different players helped the Whitefish Bulldogs beat the Libby Loggers 12-2 in its final regular season game in Northern A soccer.

Glacier spikers beat Big Sky in Missoula

MISSOULA — The Glacier Wolfpack pulled off a three-set victory over Missoula Big Sky in Western AA volleyball on Saturday.

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- 11th annual CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) Walk 1K and 5K, 1:30 p.m. Marantette Park, Columbia Falls. Registration 1 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Wildcat Garden. Call Luann, 406-261-1083.

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- 11th annual CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) Walk 1K and 5K, 1:30 p.m. Marantette Park, Columbia Falls. Registration 1 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Wildcat Garden. Call Luann, 406-261-1083.

No headline

- 11th annual CROP (Communities Responding to Overcome Poverty) Walk 1K and 5K, 1:30 p.m. Marantette Park, Columbia Falls. Registration 1 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Wildcat Garden. Call Luann, 406-261-1083.

Dog takes car for a spin in Kalispell

Local motorists may have done a double-take Thursday afternoon when they saw a dog — yes, a dog — driving its owner’s car on U.S. 93 North, according to Kalispell Police Department Sgt. Chad Fetveit.

Qunell cites extensive experience on city boards

Q. What are the most challenging economic growth issues facing Whitefish, and what solutions do you propose for handling growth?

Smart Foodservice opens today in Evergreen

Smart Foodservice Warehouse Store in Evergreen will hold its grand opening from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. today.

Property eyed for parking expansion

Kalispell Public Schools will sign buy-sell agreements and an option-to-purchase agreement to buy neighboring lots on Fifth Avenue West for parking expansion around Flathead High School.

Rural church embarks on activity center addition

Stillwater Free Lutheran Church will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for a new 9,000-square-foot activity center at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 13.

Job description leaves out bitcoin requirement

A man told the Kalispell Police Department he “was petitioned for a job over the internet” and the supposed employer deposited $5,000 into his bank account in order to attempt to get him to send cryptocurrency to Alabama. The alleged new hire wanted an officer to look at his “paperwork.”

Salvation Army kicks off holiday programs

The Salvation Army will spread cheer this Christmas season when the organization gives new toys, clothes and food to local families in need.

Mistakes cost Glacier versus Helena

Four interceptions and 11 penalties cost the Glacier Wolfpack in a 20-6 loss to the Helena High Bengals in Western AA football at Legends Stadium on Friday.

Split decisions for Glacier soccer against Helena High

HELENA — Glacier coach Ryan Billiet called the 1-0 win against Helena High “probably one of the best defensive efforts of the season.”

PHOTOS: Glacier falls to Helena, 20-6

Photos as the Glacier Wolfpack took on the Helena High Bengals in a Class AA high school football game at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Friday. Helena won, 20-6.

Browning man sentenced for child porn

A Browning man who admitted using his phone to access and distribute child pornography from his dorm room at the University of Montana was sentenced today to five years in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $18,000 restitution, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

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- ROB KOELZER of Kalispell participated in the Resource Education and Agriculture Leadership Montana Class IV seminar in Bozeman. The event was the first in a series of 10 educational seminars on topics such as networking, persuasive speaking and open-minded leadership.

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- ROB KOELZER of Kalispell participated in the Resource Education and Agriculture Leadership Montana Class IV seminar in Bozeman. The event was the first in a series of 10 educational seminars on topics such as networking, persuasive speaking and open-minded leadership.

Radio station founder Benny Bee Sr. dies at 75

Bee Broadcasting founder and owner Benny Bee Sr. died Tuesday at age 75.

4 Dems vie for HD3 vacancy

Four Democrats have thrown their hats in the ring to replace House District 3 Rep. Zac Perry of Columbia Falls, who resigned in September to further his college education.

Flathead Electric reports phone scam

Flathead Electric Cooperative reported Wednesday that some cooperative members have received fraudulent texts or phone calls from people posing as co-op employees, according to a press release from Flathead Electric spokeswoman Wendy Ostrom Price.

Peters brings business acumen to council campaign

New law against living in cars narrowly OK'd

A controversial ordinance making it a civil infraction to live and sleep in vehicles on city streets narrowly won final approval from the Kalispell City Council on Monday.

Minnesota man charged in fatal July 4 crash

A Minnesota man has been charged in the deaths of two Kalispell women who died in a July 4 traffic crash on Montana 35.

Browning woman sentenced in pedestrian death

A Browning woman convicted of involuntary manslaughter for hitting and killing a pedestrian while driving 90 mph on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced Wednesday to one year and one day in prison.

Brenda M. Lamb, 37

Brenda M. Lamb passed away Oct. 5, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center with her loving family by her side.

Birch Grove Willing Workers celebrate centennial

For 100 years the women of the Birch Grove Community northeast of Kalispell have been the caretakers of their corner of the world.

Record breaker: Windauer's 31 goals sets a C-Falls school record

COLUMBIA FALLS — Josie Windauer broke the Columbia Falls school record for goals scored in a season with her fifth goal of the night in an 8-0 rout of Polson in Northern A soccer on Thursday night at Columbia Falls High School.

Flathead spikers fall to Sentinel in three sets

MISSOULA — The Flathead Bravettes fell to Missoula Sentinel in four sets in a Western AA tilt on Thursday at Missoula Sentinel High School.

Police unable to locate metal bangers

Someone allegedly heard “metal hitting metal somewhere in the area” and wanted police to drive through the area. Kalispell Police Department didn’t hear any odd sounds and the person said they no longer heard the noise.

$30k lottery ticket sold in Bigfork

A Bigfork woman claimed a top prize this month in the Montana Lottery.

Survey determines Montana's favorite Halloween candy

A recently released study that examined the most popular Halloween candy in every state shows that Montana trick-or-treaters prefer Tootsie Pops in their candy bag.

Flathead child killer denied parole again

A sadistic killer will remain behind bars after the Montana State Board of Pardons and Parole denied his latest attempt at parole.

Mussel-infested boat stopped in Ravalli

A boat from Chicago bound for Seattle was quarantined and decontaminated at the Ravalli watercraft inspection station operated by the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes.

Weeky events Oct. 10-17

THURSDAY, OCT. 10

Hockaday accepts Members Salon submissions

To culminate its 50th anniversary celebration, the Hockaday Museum of Art in Kalispell is hosting its annual Members Salon, a showcase of two- and three-dimensional works created by their members. Artists are encouraged to submit pieces to be included and the public is invited to come see the art and vote in the People’s Choice Awards.

Montana Playwrights Network announces Premier Project plays

Three theater companies in Montana have made their selections of original plays written by Montana playwrights and will offer productions of their selected plays in October and November 2019, and January/February 2020.

The Teccas country duo garners Josie Music Award

The Teccas country duo from Montana was awarded the prestigious Fans Choice Award at the Josie Music Awards in Gatlinburg, Tennessee on Sept. 21.

Polson hosts its first Oktoberfest Oct. 12

The Polson business community and Polson Chamber of Commerce are partnering to host the first official Polson Oktoberfest from noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12, at the Polson Fairgrounds.

Professional saxophonist performs at Whitefish Community Center

Professional saxophonist Rob Verdi will entertain at the Whitefish Community Center at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct.12.

ATP Kids 'Frozen JR.' draws talent from across valley

The best-selling animated film of all time comes to life on stage with more than 180 local students in the upcoming production of “Frozen JR.” presented by ATP Kids, Alpine Theatre Project’s theater education program, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Whitefish Theatre Co. opens season with family comedy

The Whitefish Theatre Co.’s first main-stage theater production of its 2019-2020 season is the hilarious family comedy “Over the River and Through the Woods.”

Puccini's 'Turandot' brings Persian fairy tale to life

The Metropolitan Opera Company’s Live in HD broadcast of Giacomo Puccini’s “Turandot” will be shown at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center at 10:55 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 12. Set in ancient China and spectacularly lush, it is sung in Italian with English subtitles; total run time is 3:22 hours, including two intermissions. Tickets are available at the door for $20 for adults, $5 for students, and $10 for college students, cash or check.

Anglers endure wind to bring in 2,200 lakers at Mack Days

While the young bobcat that was netted and released by a family from Missoula took center stage at last weekend’s Mack Days tournament on Flathead Lake, there were plenty of anglers that braved the wind last weekend and caught more than 2,200 lake trout.

Northwest Montana angler lands several trophy fish

A Montana firefighter who loves to fish in his free time has caught some true wall-hangers this summer.

Whitefish Rifle Club hosting shooters for 50 years

Flathead Valley shooters and gun enthusiasts have been going to the Whitefish Rifle & Pistol Club for half a century to enjoy the shooting sports.

Turnover times...

When we hear the word turnover, especially in the fall, it usually means someone coughed up the ball.

Letters to the editor Oct. 10

Tim Fox, current Montana Attorney General and Republican candidate for Montana Governor is touted as a “centrist,” and his milk-toast persona lends itself to that impression. This persona can also be reflective of a person lacking in character, including spinelessness and willingness to compromise for the sake of personal promotion.

Strategy to relieve Sun Road congestion

Glacier National Park stakeholders are currently debating how to best address increasing congestion along Going-to-the-Sun Road. A number of ideas have come forward — some more controversial than others — and recently the officials who oversee Flathead County’s Eagle Transit public bus system threw their suggestion into the mix.

Another United Way lawsuit was resolved last year

A lawsuit filed Tuesday by Two Bears Family Center LLC falls in the lap of Northwest Montana United Way a little more than a year after a Whitefish man filed a different lawsuit against the agency and Westside CCC Inc. for breach of contract and fraud.

Drivers lose their minds at malfunctioning light

Flathead County Sheriff’s Department responded to multiple calls that traffic lights were malfunctioning and causing traffic to back up on West Reserve Drive. One caller said she waited 10 minutes for the light to change and when it did, it only allowed a few cars to go through before turning red. Another caller said she had been waiting at the light for 30 minutes. Yet another caller said people were “being stupid” and a sixth caller claimed people were running red lights and nearly causing accidents.

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Medicare penalizes KRMC for rate of readmissions

Kalispell Regional Medical Center was one of nine Montana hospitals penalized for failing to meet federal standards to reduce unnecessary readmissions under the Hospital Readmission Reduction Program.

Nonprofit sues United Way over 'abrupt' expulsion

A local nonprofit that was operating under the umbrella of Northwest Montana United Way in Kalispell until it was able to obtain its own federal nonprofit status is now suing the organization and its longtime executive director after an “abrupt and unreasonable” termination of United Way’s fiscal oversight.

Victim of shooting fatality identified in Lake County

One man is dead and another is behind bars after a shooting in Ronan Tuesday afternoon.

Capital City 7-on-7 XC meet cancelled

The Capital City 7-on-7 cross country meet scheduled for today at Bill Roberts Golf Course in Helena has been cancelled due to heavy snowfall in the region on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Montana GOP names executive director

The Montana Republican Party has selected a former senior staff member for U.S. Sen. Steve Daines as its new executive director.

Sample Bigfork's best home cooking at Tamarack Time

Nothing signifies fall in Northwest Montana quite like the golden glow of the tamarack tree. These green giants transform each October, lighting up the forest in one last hurrah before winter sets in.

Barbara Florence Collins nee Lester, 92

Barbara Florence Collins nee Lester has slipped the surly bonds of earth and joined her beloved husband on Oct. 6, 2019, in the great adventures that lie in the next life.

Archie Earl Forman, 84

Archie Earl Forman, of Ronan, 84, passed away on Sept. 29, 2019. Archie was born Dec.18, 1934, to Archie and Lorna Wemple Forman in Polson. He grew up on the ranch in Valley View along with his five siblings, taking on many chores and activities that were required of life growing up on the ranch. Archie graduated from Polson High School and then went on to serve in the Army for two years.

Roommate rumble ends in spilled blood

Roommates got into a rumble and there was reportedly a lot of blood after a man fell into a door and cut his ear. People involved in the fight were allegedly uncooperative when it came to telling Kalispell Police Department what happened.

Norton trumpets lengthy public service record

Q. What are the most challenging economic growth issues facing Whitefish, and what solutions do you propose for handling growth?

Montana relies on outdoor recreation, new report says

Montana’s economy is propped up on local and tourist outdoor recreational activities, according to a recent report from the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis that shows the industry accounted for 5.1% of the state’s gross domestic product in 2017.

Gary Ronald Jystad, 85

Rollins resident, Gary Ronald Jystad, M.D., passed away on Tuesday morning from natural causes. He was 85 years old.

Voters OK $37 million bond request

Columbia Falls voters narrowly approved a $37 million bond issue by a matter of 97 votes on Tuesday.

Kalispell attorney exits state AG race

Local bankruptcy attorney Jim Cossitt announced his withdrawal from the race for Montana attorney general on Tuesday.

Snow, ice reported on Glacier Park area roads

Road conditions were deteriorating early Tuesday afternoon on U.S. 2 in the Glacier National Park area due to snow and high winds.

Survey measures student risk factors

Depression among high school students in Flathead County is at a 10-year high. Cigarette smoking is down, while vaping is up.

Montanans mixed on impeachment, economy

Montana voters have mixed views about the impeachment of President Donald Trump, the economy and the job performance of elected officials, according to results from a recent University of Montana Big Sky Poll.

FWP seeks information in Olney grizzly shooting

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are seeking information on the shooting of a grizzly bear in Northwest Montana.

Contested races mark city council elections

The Daily Inter Lake begins publishing its municipal election candidate question-and-answer profiles in today’s edition.

Penny Arlin Whitson, 53

Penny Arlin Whitson passed away Oct. 4, 2019, in Kalispell.

Davis touts work on housing issues, management skills

Q. What are the most challenging economic growth issues facing Whitefish, and what solutions do you propose for handling growth?

FVCC student places in national team roping finals

Local team roper Levi Higa didn’t come home empty-handed at the Wrangler National Team Roping Finals in Billings Sept. 24-29.

Glacier spikers fall to Sentinel

The Glacier Wolfpack dropped in four sets to Missoula Sentinel in Western AA play at Glacier High School on Tuesday.

Flathead's Mercer 2nd, Glacier's Avery 3rd at AA golf

GREAT FALLS — Flathead’s Marcella Mercer played to a second-place tie on the final day of the Class AA State Golf Tournament at Meadowlark Country Club in Great Falls on Tuesday.

Columbia Falls soccer shuts out, sweeps Bigfork

BIGFORK — Maddie Robison scored four goals for the Columbia Falls Wildkats in a 7-0 rout of the Bigfork Valkryies in a Northern A matchup on Tuesday.

Flathead's Mercer in second place at AA golf

Glacier’s Tyler Avery

Sneed named national player of week

Senior accounted for

Eureka downs Cougars in volleyball

EUREKA — Maggie Graves recorded 12 kills, 12 digs and two service aces on Monday as the Eureka Lions downed visiting Stillwater Christian in a nonconference volleyball match. Scores were 25-4, 25-15, 25-17.

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Mack Days anglers land a wild bobcat

There’s little question that anglers on Flathead Lake have landed some interesting things that weren’t fish — but a bobcat?

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- Helena Flats Road will be closed between Pheasant Drive and Plentywood Drive due to utility work from 6 a.m. today to 6 p.m. Wednesday. A detour will be established. Call Siderius Construction, 406-581-8719.

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- Helena Flats Road will be closed between Pheasant Drive and Plentywood Drive due to utility work from 6 a.m. today to 6 p.m. Wednesday. A detour will be established. Call Siderius Construction, 406-581-8719.

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- Helena Flats Road will be closed between Pheasant Drive and Plentywood Drive due to utility work from 6 a.m. today to 6 p.m. Wednesday. A detour will be established. Call Siderius Construction, 406-581-8719.

Lights out for man at intersection

A man was supposedly sleeping in his vehicle in the intersection of E. Idaho Street and Fourth Avenue East North and had to be woken up to continue driving. He appeared to be driving normally and was OK, but he was given a warning by Kalispell Police Department for a brake light being out.

City to hold second reading on lodging in cars

The Kalispell City Council will have its second reading on the controversial decision to make it a civil infraction to lodge in vehicles on city streets this evening, along with decisions on a number of other council items.

Whitefish mulls changes to secondary business zone

Concerned about the potential proliferation of hotels in the city’s secondary business zone, the Whitefish City Council tonight will discuss possible changes to conditional-use permit standards in that zone.

Pirates down Maidens in five sets

POLSON — Misty Tenas recorded 14 kills and four blocks and Maggie Todd added 12 kills and 11 digs as the Pirates (10-7) downed visiting Ronan in five sets of volleyball action on Saturday. Scores were 25-19, 24-26, 17-25, 25-19 and 19-17.

Mammography technologist battles breast cancer statewide

When Elise Cormier was 25, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that nearly took her life.

Runic inscriptions: ancient Post-it notes

Traveling through Norway was so much more wonderful than I ever imagined it would be, and it’s difficult to articulate exactly why.

Mary 'Lyn' (Hestekin) Tucker, 88 Gerald Martin 'Jerry' Tucker, 86

Lyn Tucker, 88, of Missoula passed away peacefully on Sept. 28, 2019, at St. Patrick Hospital surrounded by her family.

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- 20th annual Northwest Montana Veterans Stand Down, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Asa Wood Grade School, 700 Idaho St., Libby. Free services, resources, counseling, food, clothing for veterans and their families. Civilian clothing drive in parking lot.

Senior-focused 'transition services' firm expands to Flathead

Caring Transitions Western Montana, a moving service specializing in senior relocations, is expanding its Flathead Valley services with a full Kalispell team. Mike Fikany and Stefanie Silvan opened a Missoula location of the national “transition services” company in May 2018 before expanding to the Flathead Valley.

'Paul is Dead' hoax threatens woman

A woman called the Kalispell Police Department to report a man who had called to tell her, falsely, Paul McCartney is dead. She told the police it was a “threatening phone call,” but she couldn’t explain how the false celebrity gossip was a threat to her.

Historic Holland Lake Lodge up for sale

Holland Lake Lodge, a rustic, inviting guesthouse surrounded by water on three sides, rests in the shadow of the Swan Range.

Robin B. Rose, 61

On the morning of July 20, 2019, Robin B. Rose passed away in his home in Helena after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

Plan emerges to expand, overhaul transit system

Officials with Eagle Transit — Flathead County’s public transportation system that also provides the free shuttle service in Glacier National Park — have proposed a bold overhaul of the current fleet and system they and other stakeholders see as a promising means for connecting local residents and tourists in gateway communities to the park.

Montana needs Keystone pipeline to move forward

For over a decade, TC Energy, formerly known as TransCanada Corp, has been striving to build the Keystone XL pipeline. They have diligently obtained permits in every state along the planned and alternative routes, studied the potential impacts of the project, and taken every possible measure to ensure the safety of the environment and the communities along the route.

Manufacturing strong across Montana, reports say

Multiple reports recently released by Montana State University’s Montana Manufacturing Extension Center highlight the strength of Montana’s manufacturing sector.

Letters to the editor Oct. 6

If you read the Constitution it does not state that a president can do anything he wants. It does state what powers and duties each branch of the government is responsible for, and establishes a system of checks and balances among the three branches.

Partnerships help keep island pristine

Only accessible by boat, Wild Horse Island State Park has long been considered a hidden jewel of Flathead Lake.

Neil David Van Sickle, 104

Neil David Van Sickle of Kalispell died of natural causes on Sept. 29, 2019.

Milton E. Olson, 89

Milton E. Olson, 89, of Ambrose, North Dakota, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2019.

Patricia Ann Dickey, 67

Patricia Ann Dickey, 67, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2019, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Orma Mae Zander Fairbank, 86

On Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, Orma Mae Zander Fairbank, loving wife and mother of four children, passed away at the age of 86.

Do school days matter anymore?

Imagine this. Student to teacher: “I need the day off to go protest global warming. My parents might not approve, but it’s something I simply must do. Any problem with that?”

Leadership, self-responsibility needed to reduce grizzly-hunter conflicts

Hunters are afield in the quest for winter meat and it’s time for self-reflection and responsibility.

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- 20th annual Northwest Montana Veterans Stand Down, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Asa Wood Grade School, 700 Idaho St., Libby. Free services, resources, counseling, food, clothing for veterans and their families. Civilian clothing drive in parking lot.

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- 20th annual Northwest Montana Veterans Stand Down, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Asa Wood Grade School, 700 Idaho St., Libby. Free services, resources, counseling, food, clothing for veterans and their families. Civilian clothing drive in parking lot.

Irene Hansen, 96

Irene Hansen, 96, passed away peacefully at the Montana Veterans Home on Sept. 29, 2019.

Kermit Merle Edmonds, 81

Kermit Merle Edmonds of Missoula died Sept. 20, 2019, at the age of 81. He was a beloved father, brother, friend and teacher; and a noted historian, archaeologist and soldier. He died at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Undefeated Capital beats Flathead

The Flathead Bravettes lost their third straight game in three sets to undefeated Helena Capital at Flathead High School on Saturday in Western AA volleyball.

Flathead girls take third at Butte Invite XC

BUTTE ­— A trio of top 15 finishes helped Flathead girls bring home third place team honors at the Butte Invitational at the Highland View Golf Course on Saturday.

Wolfpack soccer blows out Butte

BUTTE — Madison Becker scored a hat trick as the Glacier Wolfpack routed the Butte Bulldogs 5-0 in Western AA soccer on Saturday.

Eureka bests Libby in rainy wilderness XC run

LIBBY — On a muddy and rainy course at the Flower Creek Ski Area on Saturday, Eureka beat Libby in the Libby Wilderness run.

Madeline N. Evans, 90

Madeline N. Evans, 90 years old, passed away at her home in Grafton New Hampshire, on Sept, 20, 2019.

Lumber project requires more study

A federal court judge ruled Thursday that an additional Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is needed for the Pilgrim Creek Timber Sale Project in the Kootenai National Forest after research showed faulty road berms weren’t blocking motorized vehicles from entering grizzly bear habitat in the Cabinet-Yaak.

'Monkey man' strips in the streets

A caller told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office there was a man “running around in the road, acting like a monkey and taking his clothes off.”

Lake County man honored after spending life in the saddle

Walter J. “Walt” Vermedahl is at home on horseback.

Deadline for REAL ID a year away

Montanans are running out of time to get their REAL IDs if they want to board a plane at this time next year.

PHOTOS: Glacier tops Hellgate, 35-28

Photos from Glacier’s 35-28 win over Missoula Hellgate in Class AA high school football at Legends Stadium in Kalispell on Friday night.

Ski area breaks record for sales of annual passes

Whitefish Mountain Resort sold more than 11,500 season passes for the upcoming ski and snowboard season, breaking the resort’s sale record for the fourth consecutive year in a row, according to a press release.

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Weekend update

Veterans Stand Down

Community Spirit Monument targeted by vandalism

Benches and signs around the Community Spirit Monument in Woodland Park have been repeatedly vandalized in recent weeks, according to Kalispell Public Works Director Chad Fincher.

Whitefish man charged with assault in Taser incident

A man faces up to 20 years in state prison and a maximum fine of $50,000 after allegedly using a Taser to assault a Columbia Falls woman in her home Sept. 22.

SkyWest ground handlers leaving GPI this winter

SkyWest Airlines will be transitioning to a new ground handling service this winter at Glacier Park International Airport, the company said in a statement Wednesday.

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Weekend update

Veterans Stand Down

Man defends horses against deer

Someone told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Department his son reported a mountain lion on his property. He tried to protect his horses by sitting up in a tree with a gun. He later realized the intruder was just a deer.

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Weekend update

Veterans Stand Down

Montana a strategic point in fight against trafficking

Montana and Texas are becoming key strategic points in the fight against human trafficking, according to counter-trafficking experts.

Wolfpack escape Knights in thriller

With the Glacier Wolfpack offense struggling in the second half, Jake Rendina took matters into his own hands on the game’s final drive.

Flathead's first win an upset of Helena High

HELENA — It was a long time coming. The Flathead Braves won their first game of the season, beating No. 3 Helena High 13-9 on Friday night in Western AA football at Vigilante Stadium.

Whitefish's Kahle wins Class A state golf title

LAUREL — Whitefish’s Cameron Kahle won a three-hole playoff by shooting par on the third hole at the State A Golf Tournament at Laurel Golf Club in Laurel on Friday.

State AA golf tourney start moved to Monday

The 2019 MHSA State Class AA Golf Tournament scheduled for Oct. 8-9 (Tuesday and Wednesday) at Meadowlark Country Club in Great Falls has been rescheduled to Oct. 7-8 (Monday and Tuesday).

Glacier, Flathead spikers split with Helena schools

Glacier couldn’t get a leg up on Helena Capital during their Friday night Western AA matchup, which Helena Capital won in three sets, bringing them to an impressive 6-0 for the season.

Flathead soccer sweeps in wintry Butte

BUTTE — The snow was flying Friday night, but so were the Flathead Bravettes who delivered a decisive victory over Butte in Western AA soccer on Friday.

Mixed results for Glacier vs. Hellgate

The Glacier Wolfpack tied the Missoula Hellgate Knights for the second time this season in a Western AA soccer game at Glacier High School on Friday.

Big kicks for Bulldogs in sweep of Bigfork

WHITEFISH — The Whitefish Bulldogs continued their dominance with a 7-1 rout of the Bigfork Vikings at Smith Fields on Thursday.

Whitefish's Shaw, Kahle in running at state golf

LAUREL — Whitefish’s Ella Shaw shot a 96 to tie for fifth place after the first day of action at the Class A State Golf Tournament on Thursday.

Olszewski picks running mate in race for governor

Montana GOP gubernatorial candidate Al Olszewski, a state senator from Kalispell, announced Thursday his running mate will be state Sen. Kenneth Bogner, R-Miles City.

Letters to the editor Oct. 3

Having visited Kalispell frequently over the past 14 years, I was surprised to see a letter to the editor, which expressed deep concern about the president’s rhetoric. The writer invoked Nazi Germany and asked if rhetoric was linked to mass shootings. Readers were advised to consider this when they vote.

Board tables request for commercial airfield near Whitefish

“Would any of you want to buy a property next to a commercial helicopter pad?”

Developer vows to take steps to protect eagles

The developer of a gated community at the base of Teakettle Mountain said he’s taking steps to address concerns over a bald eagle nest on his property.

Marianne Wilson Robinson

Marianne Wilson Robinson lived a life full of God’s grace and charity. She passed peacefully at home in Kalispell in the early morning on Oct. 1, 2019, at the age of “101.8438.” “Nana” was constantly surrounded by family and friends and will be missed deeply. We ask that you pray for the repose of her soul.

Teachers tap into crowdsourcing

In a perfect world, teachers would have all the money they need for classroom supplies and projects. But the reality is, most school district budgets are tight and teachers routinely dip into their own pockets to pay for basic supplies.

Marjorie Cecilia (Bakshas) Gravelle, 77

Marjorie Cecilia (Bakshas) Gravelle, 77, passed away suddenly on Sept. 23, 2019.

Orma Mae Fairbank, 86

Orma Mae Fairbank, 86, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, at Buffalo Hill Terrace in Kalispell.

Charles Richard Howard, 90

Charles Richard Howard, 90, of Kalispell, went on to his great reward on Monday, Sept. 30, 2019, with his family at his side after a brief illness.

New rules let Medicare fund rural residencies

A change to Medicare that went into effect Oct. 1 aims to help rural hospitals address shortages of nurses and primary-care physicians.

Man needs divine help to get back home

A man on Angel Point Road in Lakeside was heard shouting “biblical things” and something about getting back home to California.

Kalispell sets daily record low temperature

A new daily record low was set in Kalispell early Wednesday morning as temperatures dipped into the teens across the region.

Local blackout for DIRECTV customers drags on

A dispute between AT&T and local television stations has left viewers in the dark over the past few weeks for some of the season’s most popular programming, including local college football and NFL games.

Amy Lynn Piunti, 43

In the presence of her loving family, Cedarburg, Wisconsin, resident Amy Lynn Piunti entered into eternal life on Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019, at the age of 43.

Anti-Semitic fliers found in downtown Whitefish

Anti-Semitic fliers were dropped off at several local businesses in downtown Whitefish on Monday night, according to a press release from the Montana Human Rights Network.

Long-awaited Cow Creek restoration underway

For years, organizations, researchers and other stakeholders have pinned Cow Creek in Whitefish as being in dire need of restoration to improve the stream’s water quality that has — as its name would suggest — been degraded due to livestock overuse.

Ballot deadline nears for $37M school bond issue

Voters living in the Columbia Falls School District are reminded to mail in ballots on a $37 million bond issue to meet an Oct. 8 deadline.

'Flying' cars pose danger on Lakeside road

A Blacktail Road resident in Lakeside asked Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputies to patrol the road once in awhile because visitors were “flying up and down the road.” She purportedly saw an SUV drive at “excessive speeds” up the mountain and a pickup truck come “flying down,” and was “concerned for the drivers and the animals.”

Benjamin F. Grimm, 90

Benjamin F. Grimm, 90, passed away on Sept. 20, 2019, at the Montana Veterans Home.

William C. 'Sonny' Stotler, 76

William C. “Sonny” Stotler, 76, passed into the Lord’s arms Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, after a two-year battle with brain cancer.

Marjorie Cecilia (Bakshas) Gravelle, 77

Marjorie Cecilia (Bakshas) Gravelle, 77, passed away suddenly on Sept. 23, 2019.

Wins for C-Falls girls, Whitefish boys

COLUMBIA FALLS —

Lions tame Cougars in three sets

The Eureka Lions took out the Stillwater Cougars in non-conference volleyball at Stillwater Christian School on Tuesday.

Women Who Wine stage annual banquet Oct. 8

Women Who Wine of the Flathead will host its sixth annual Giving Banquet from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8, in the Arts and Technology Building at Flathead Valley Community College.

Flathead foundation hires new director

Tom LePage has been hired as the executive director of the Flathead Community Foundation and started his new job on Tuesday.

No injuries in Old Reserve accident

A two-vehicle accident occurred during rush-hour traffic Tuesday morning on Old Reserve Drive in Kalispell.

Moncrief permanently retires lease in Badger-Two Med

The Wilderness Society and Moncrief Oil and Gas Master LLC reached an out-of-court settlement on Tuesday resulting in the permanent retirement of a federal oil and gas lease in the Badger-Two Medicine area near Glacier National Park, according to a press release.

Play time taken seriously at Edgerton recess

There’s nothing quite like recess.

Dips throw unwanted side of sauce

Kalispell Police Department received a phone call about criminal mischief in the neighborhood when “kids” were reportedly seen driving around throwing fast-food dipping sauce at vehicles.

Fall open burning season begin today

Fall open burning season for Flathead County begins today, Oct. 1, and runs through Nov. 30; no burning permit is required, but residents must comply with air quality regulations.

Comment period extended for Going-to-the-Sun Road plan

Glacier National Park officials have extended the comment period for the Going-to-the-Sun Road Corridor Management Plan through Nov. 6.

Flathead Lake sailboats ravaged in weekend storm

Two sailboats fell victim to high winds that walloped the Flathead Valley with gusts of up to 50 mph and waves on Flathead Lake as high as 6 feet. The vessels sank in their slips at Dayton Yacht Harbor, despite the best efforts of local sailors who monitored the fleet throughout the night Saturday when the storm was at its worst.

Food, wine event raises scholarship funds

Flathead Valley Community College is inviting the community to wine and dine at the 12th annual Fall Festival of Flavors Oct. 4 to 12 to raise funds for student scholarships.