Ellington

Company that bought Weyerhaeuser lands assures it will stay in block management program

The company that purchased 630,000 acres of Weyerhaeuser timberlands in Montana said it fully intends to keep the property in the state’s block management program, which allows hunting and other access to the public.

Firefighters quickly knock down Columbia Falls house fire

Columbia Falls firefighters quickly knocked down a house fire Sunday about 5:46 p.m. on Ninth Avenue West.

Glacier Park closed for foreseeable future

Glacier National Park rangers were sweeping roads and clearing campgrounds late Friday after the park announced it would close after consulting with state, local and tribal officials due to concerns over the COVID-19 virus.

Flathead National Forest also closes campgrounds, cabins

The Flathead National Forest has also closed its developed campgrounds and rental cabins due to the CODID-19 outbreak.

Lincoln County man first to die of COVID-19

By DUNCAN ADAMS

Weyerhaeuser announces Montana land sale finalized

Weyerhaeuser announces Montana land sale finalized

Bullock issues stay-at-home order; asks Glacier Park to close

Gov. Steve Bullock on Thursday announced a statewide stay-at-home order beginning at 12:01 a.m. Saturday to combat the spread of COVID-19 virus. He also wants Glacier National Park to close as well.

Helena Lewis and Clark national Forest closes campgrounds, rental cabins and day use areas

The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest announced it is closing its campgrounds, day use sites and rental cabins to stop the spread of the covid-19 virus.

Tester, Daines, support $2.2 trillion covid-19 relief measure

Montana’s Senators both touted a massive $2.2 trillion spending bill designed to provide economic relief for individuals and businesses suffering huge losses from the covid-19 virus outbreak.

County orders closures of hair salons, tattoo parlors, barbershops and more

The Flathead County City-County Health Department Thursday issued an order that require more businesses to close due to the covid-19 virus outbreak.

Flathead National Forest allowing personal use firewood gathering without permit until June 1

The Forest Service announced Wednesday that personal firewood cutting will be free to the general public from April 1 through June 1 on the Flathead National Forest. No permit will be required during this time.

Columbia Falls woman stuck in Peru for now as border is closed

A Columbia Falls woman has been stuck in Peru after the country closed its borders due the coronavirus and she couldn’t get out. Brooke Sample was working as a student missionary/journalist at a small non-profit medical clinic in Pucallpa, which is in the Amazonian region.

All state, conference hoops awards announced

All conference and all state basketball selections have been announced.

No headline

Karen Reynen

Open spaces offer refuge from virus, folks say

Community members were out and about at River’s Edge Park during a sunny afternoon last week. They seemed grateful for Montana’s abundant wild spaces, affording people the luxury of still being able to recreate while maintaining social distancing during the coronavirus scare.

Freedom Bank offering $1,000 no-interest loans during coronavirus crisis

Freedom Bank will start offering no-interest, unsecured six-month loans of up to $1,000 for folks in the Columbia Falls and Canyon areas that need emergency funds, bank President Don Bennett announced Monday morning.

Bullock extends closures to April 10

Gov. Steve Bullock on Tuesday announced he is extending the closures of schools, bars and restaurants until at least April 10.

Unchained melody

The woman started talking before I even got close enough to hear her.

Volunteers making gowns for hospital

Volunteers are sewing isolation gowns for North Valley Hospital. An isolation gown is typically a disposable paper gown that healthcare staff like doctors and nurses wear when attending to a contagious patient, such as coronavirus.

North Fork offers self-isolation wisdom

At the risk of this column reading like a journal entry or to even appear that I know what I’m talking about, here it goes. These past few weeks I’ve been reading through the archives of the North Fork re-imagining the abrupt but welcomed interruption of the winter norm of peaceful, snowy solitude, by competitive dogsled racing teams hurling over the Whitefish Divide, skidding to a finish line of cinnamon swirls seeping out of the Merc and a radiant Northern Lights Saloon sure to have the fire stoked, hot food, warm bartenders and jolly bystanders welcoming the teams in from the blizzard and wild moose that linger out beyond and behind.

Glacier Park starts spring plowing next week

Glacier National Park plow crews will hit the roads starting next week, park officials confirmed via email.

Social distancing, Montana style

Last week I figured if I wrote another story on coronavirus I was going to be forced to tuck a napkin under my chin and eat my arm off.

Ruder remodel will utilize as many local products as possible

The School District 6 Board last week got an update on the Ruder and Glacier Gateway Elementary School projects, set to begin construction this year.

Harold Puglia

Harold Puglia, 66, of Hungry Horse, passed away March 21, 2020 at his home. Harold is survived by his wife Tammy and his children. Arrangements are pending. Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for Harold’s family.

Leon Hoerner

Leon Hoerner, 69, of Columbia Falls, passed away March 18, 2020 at his home. Leon is survived by his children, Marc Hoerner, Angel Hoerner, Janna Hansen and his brother Allan Hoerner and sister Susan Salminen. Leon will be buried in St. Richard’s Cemetery. Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for Leon’s family.

Thelma “Tim” Carter

Tim passed away quietly and at peace on March 18, 2020. She and her twin sister Alma were born Jan. 3, 1924, seventh and eighth of 18 children born to Pearl and Bradford Leighty. They were born at home on Middle Road, Columbia Falls, where they had no electricity and they used an outdoor privy with catalogs and magazines for toilet paper.

George Dean

George Dean, 77, of Columbia Falls, passed away March 13, 2020. George will be buried in the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, California. Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for George’s family.

Karen Reynen

Karen Reynen, 65 of Columbia Falls, passed away at her home on March 18, 2020. Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is caring for Karen’s family.

With closures, keeping kids fed

A group of children, gathered with backpacks and bicycles, began jumping up and down with excitement, arms in the air, as the bright yellow school bus pulled up to the Martin City Fire Hall on Thursday afternoon. The bus was carrying daily sack lunches and breakfasts and a spring break’s worth of groceries to students who, because of the coronavirus school closures, don’t currently have access to this normally available resource.

Ian B. Tippet

Ian B. Tippet, the man who brought Broadway musicals, hootenannies, recitals, and concerts to Glacier National Park at the Many Glacier Hotel for decades, died of natural causes on March 9, 2020, in Arizona.

The Blotter: Woman tries to drill her ex, literally

Tuesday, March 17

City council briefed on coronavirus at meeting

Flathead City-County Health Department Deputy Health Officer Kerry Nuckles last week briefed Columbia Falls City Council on the latest county policies concerning the coronavirus.

Yesterdays: Fighter jet crashes into Flathead Lake

70 years ago

Christian group recruiting youths

Young Life Montana, a state chapter of the international ecumenical Christian youth ministry Young Life, is looking to expand its reach to Columbia Falls.

Students also keeping up on the news as they read local, national sites

Fifth-grade Ruder Elementary teacher Sherri Nissen was inspired to get her students reading the news.

Legals March 25, 2020

No. 1685 West Glacier Elementary # 8 RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO IMPOSE AN INCREASE IN LEVIES As an essential part of its budgeting process, the West Glacier School Board of Trustees is authorized by law to impose levies to support its budget. The West Glacier School Board of Trustees estimates the following increase/decreases in revenues and mills for the funds noted below for the next school fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020, using certified taxable valuations from the current school fiscal year as provided by the district. Building Reserve Fund. Estimated change in revenues: 0 change. Estimated change in Mills: 0 change. Estimated impact on a home of $100,000 is 0 change and on a home of $200,000 a 0 change. Estimated change in transportation is a 0 change in mills and a 0 change in dollars. Regarding the increase in the building reserve levy referenced above, the following are school facility maintenance projects anticipated to be completed at this time are Repair and Maintenance of West Glacier Elementary. The District intends to use the permissive Building Reserve levy for: 1. Gym improvements 2. Replace cafeteria tables 3. Replace gym floor 4. Internet Accessibility Updates Dawn LaFleur, Chairperson Christy Baker, Clerk Dated March 11, 2020 March 25, 2020 MNAXLP __________________________

Legals for March, 25 2020

Another KRH employee tests positive for coronavirus

The total number of cases of coronavirus in the Flathead Valley is now at four as of Monday evening.

Two more coronavirus cases in Flathead County; total now at 4

By KIANNA GARDNER

Freedom Bank offering $1,000 no-interest loans during coronavirus crisis

Freedom Bank will start offering no-interest, unsecured six-month loans of up to $1,000 for folks in the Columbia Falls and Canyon areas that need emergency funds, bank President Don Bennett announced Monday morning.

School District 6 formally announces emergency school closure; buildings will be locked down on Monday for cleaning

The Columbia Falls School District 6 Board Thursday declared an emergency school closure due to the coronavirus outbreak. The closure comes as the expectation is that schools will likely remain closed much longer than Gov. Steve Bullock’s initial closure order, which is set to end next Friday (March 27).

County formally closes bars, restaurants, but take-out OK. Grocery stores stay open

Flathead County on Thursday issued an order by the county health officer closing bars, restaurants, casinos, athletic centers, indoor recreation facilities, skating rinks and theaters to the public. The order does not prevent restaurants from operating on a limited basis to provide take-out services, but they must close dining room facilities. The order goes into effect at 6 a.m. Friday, March 20.

Coronavirus update: Columbia Falls limiting access to buildings

Columbia Falls City Hall is restricting access to its offices starting March 19 (tomorrow) it announced Wednesday.

KRH opens screening facilities for people who think they have coronavirus

Kalispell Regional Healthcare has set up two sites where people can be examined if they think they have moderate symptoms of coronavirus, the hospital announced Wednesday.

Coronavirus upends life in the Flathead Valley, state

Schools closed. Stocks crashed. And people swarmed grocery stores, emptying shelves of canned goods, rice, potatoes and toilet paper.

Interesting news ... and weird, too

A classic G. George Ostrom from 1991...

If season survives, track team should be good

Columbia Falls High School track and field practice started with nearly 120 athletes out to compete. Head coach Jamie Heinz is looking forward to what the season will unveil, if the season ever commences.

Just ducky

The wind was blowing and it was cold for March, a brisk 7 degrees.

School board deadline is next week

Folks interested in running for the School District 6 board still have time to file for office. There are currently four candidates for three open seats.

This too shall pass

I am not a lawyer, a doctor, or a high-ranking politician so I have no idea whether or not the near panic over coronavirus is justified or not. Since there is no vaccine or known effective treatment it does seem prudent to limit travel, large groups, and wash your hands. I can even understand some school closures in areas of high infection to avoid young people from carrying the virus home to older, more vulnerable people. Like me.

Schools preparing to teach students remotely, lunch service continues

Columbia Falls School District 6 is preparing to have teachers give lessons over the Internet where it’s possible, Superintendent Steve Bradshaw said Monday.

Vet gets medal, 68 years later

Longtime North Forker Lee Downes got a surprise on Sunday — a medal for his military service in post-war Europe, 68 years after the fact.

All state, conference hoops awards

All conference and all state basketball selections have been announced.

Runner completes grueling Navy SEAL challenge

Think you’re tough? Try this some time: Run four miles every four hours for 48 hours.

A look at Columbia Falls area coronavirus closures, delays

Here’s a look at what’s currently closed or canceled in the area due to the coronavirus as of presstime:

Academic endowment gets a boost from Class of '63

The first class to graduate from the current Columbia Falls High School after having walked it’s halls for all four years is paying it forward to future generations of Wildcats.

No headline

Kathe Nelson-Lalum

Columbia Heights water system will see badly needed upgrade

Construction on a water system improvement project for the Flathead County Water District 101, servicing the Columbia Heights area, began in front of the Ol’ River Bridge Inn on March 10.

Ian Tippet, longtime Glacier Park figure, dies

Ian Tippet, the man who brought musicals and Hootenannies to Glacier National Park for decades, died of natural causes Monday, March 9 in Arizona. He was 88.

Keeping the Republic

On the final day of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, delegate Benjamin Franklin was asked, “Well doctor, what have we got – a republic or a monarchy?” He responded, “A republic, if you can keep it.”

No headline

70 years ago

No headline

Michael Floyd Darling

No headline

Tuesday, March 10

Letter from a loyal Wildcat

It’s not my habit to write letters to the editor but I feel compelled to let my feelings be known. I am referring to the Northwest divisional basketball tournament in Ronan recently. I feel it was well organized with a great display of good sportsmanship. I too share the disappointment of our coaches, fans and the players involved over being eliminated from state in Billings. I know that both the boys and girls gave it all their best. Being eliminated doesn’t change my feelings of my love and pride towards our athletes and the coaching staff. Just because the scoreboard doesn’t show it, you are and always will be winners in my book and have my total support. I am not only proud of all our ballplayers but the cheerleaders too. Their performance during half time had to be the best ever and one of my highlights of the event. I can only imagine the amount of work that goes into their performance. Losing and winning are part of life’s lessons and you have every right to be proud. Like they always say, “Wait until next year.”

All state, conference hoops awards

All conference and all state basketball selections have been announced.

This too shall pass

I am not a lawyer, a doctor, or a high-ranking politician so I have no idea whether or not the near panic over coronavirus is justified or not. Since there is no vaccine or known effective treatment it does seem prudent to limit travel, large groups, and wash your hands. I can even understand some school closures in areas of high infection to avoid young people from carrying the virus home to older, more vulnerable people. Like me.

Schools preparing to teach students remotely, lunch service continues

Columbia Falls School District 6 is preparing to have teachers give lessons over the Internet where it’s possible, Superintendent Steve Bradshaw said Monday.

Vet gets medal, 68 years later

Longtime North Forker Lee Downes got a surprise on Sunday — a medal for his military service in post-war Europe, 68 years after the fact.

All conference and all state basketball selections have been announced.

All conference and all state basketball selections have been announced.

Runner completes grueling Navy SEAL challenge

Think you’re tough? Try this some time: Run four miles every four hours for 48 hours.

A look at Columbia Falls area coronavirus closures, delays

Here’s a look at what’s currently closed or canceled in the area due to the coronavirus as of presstime:

Spring sports postponed

All Montana High School spring activities will be indefinitely suspended until further notice, the Montana High School Association announced on Monday.

Academic endowment gets a boost from Class of ‘63

The first class to graduate from the current Columbia Falls High School after having walked it’s halls for all four years is paying it forward to future generations of Wildcats.

Kathe Nelson-Lalum

Kathe Nelson-Lalum, 44, of Columbia Heights, Minnesota, passed away suddenly, Feb. 8 2020 as a result of complications of Influenza A. She was preceded in death by her grandparents. She is survived by her husband, Nathan E. Lalum; her parents, Bob and Karen Nelson; her sister Jill (Jody) Heustess; nieces, Charley and Piper; and Nathan’s family, Allen and Diane Lalum; William and Amy Greer-Lalum and grandparents, William and Mary Armstrong.

Coronavirus update: Schools closed until March 27

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock announced Sunday afternoon that Montana K-12 schools would be closed March 16 (Monday) through March 27 in an attempt to slow the spread of coronavirus in the state.

Columbia Heights water system will see badly needed upgrade

Construction on a water system improvement project for the Flathead County Water District 101, servicing the Columbia Heights area, began in front of the Ol’ River Bridge Inn on March 10.

Keeping the Republic

On the final day of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, delegate Benjamin Franklin was asked, “Well doctor, what have we got – a republic or a monarchy?” He responded, “A republic, if you can keep it.”

Ian Tippet, longtime Glacier Park figure, dies

Ian Tippet, the man who brought musicals and Hootenannies to Glacier National Park for decades, died of natural causes Monday, March 9 in Arizona. He was 88.

Michael Floyd Darling

Michael Floyd Darling, 72, died due to complications following surgery on March 9, 2020 in Palm Springs, California. Mike was the son of Vera and Flip Darling of Columbia Falls. He was born in Kalispell on Aug., 10, 1947. He spent his first nine years in Bigfork residing at the Bigfork Ranger Station. After the third grade, Mike’s family moved to Columbia Falls where he graduated from high school.

Yesterdays: Getting ready for a nuclear attack

70 years ago

Planning board OK’s $15 million Nucleus development

The Columbia Falls City-County Planning Board Tuesday night unanimously approved a $15 million planned unit development for a mixed-use condominium, health club, restaurant and commercial complex on Nucleus Avenue, though some members raised reservations about the development.

Letter from a loyal Wildcat

It’s not my habit to write letters to the editor but I feel compelled to let my feelings be known. I am referring to the Northwest divisional basketball tournament in Ronan recently. I feel it was well organized with a great display of good sportsmanship. I too share the disappointment of our coaches, fans and the players involved over being eliminated from state in Billings. I know that both the boys and girls gave it all their best. Being eliminated doesn’t change my feelings of my love and pride towards our athletes and the coaching staff. Just because the scoreboard doesn’t show it, you are and always will be winners in my book and have my total support. I am not only proud of all our ballplayers but the cheerleaders too. Their performance during half time had to be the best ever and one of my highlights of the event. I can only imagine the amount of work that goes into their performance. Losing and winning are part of life’s lessons and you have every right to be proud. Like they always say, “Wait until next year.”

The Blotter: Hungry Horse man says house is ‘chemically hot’

Tuesday, March 10

Richard Hayes

Richard Hayes, 73, passed away at his home in Columbia Falls on Feb. 24, 2020.

Coronavirus update: School cancels field trips, Creston Auction canceled

Meanwhile, the Creston Auction, scheduled for April 3-5 has been canceled due concerns about the coronavirus.

Coronavirus update: Springs sports postponed until at least April 13

All Montana High School spring activities will be indefinitely suspended until further notice, the Montana High School Association announced on Monday.

Coronavirus update: Schools closed until March 27

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock announced Sunday afternoon that Montana K-12 schools would be closed March 16 (Monday) through March 27 in an attempt to slow the spread of coronavirus in the state.

Coronavirus update: School cancels field trips, Creston Auction canceled

Meanwhile, the Creston Auction, scheduled for April 3-5 has been canceled due concerns about the coronavirus.

Coronavirus update: Montana Veterans Home will start screening visitors on Monday

The Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls will start screening visitors starting Monday, superintendent Joren Underdahl said Thursday.

Planning board OK's Nucleus development

The Columbia Falls City-County Planning Board Tuesday night unanimously approved a $15 million planned unit development for a mixed-use condominium, health club, restaurant and commercial complex on Nucleus Avenue, though some members raised reservations about the development.

Bullock will challenge Daines after all; local races set

Monday was the last day to file for elections.

County eyes floating 911 levy, again

Flathead County will likely float a new mill levy request this fall to pay for 911 services. The proposed levy language hasn’t been set yet, but the topic of the levy has come up at several Columbia Falls City Council meetings as of late.

McVay’s Way

He was born Hollister Pat McVay 100 years ago.

Boys and Girls Club fundraiser features chance at a private jet from party to Vegas

The Boys and Girls Club of Glacier Country continues to work out costs and logistics of building a new structure in Columbia Falls or using the old junior high for its programs, board President Justin Lee said last week.

Columbia Falls students not canceling travel plans due to coronavirus

Columbia Falls High School has no plans to restrict student travel at this point due to the coronavirus.

Highway 206 work starts next year

The Montana Department of Transportation is proposing the addition of upgraded sidewalks near the Secondary Highway 206 and U.S. Highway 2 intersection.

Paul Pasco

Paul Pasco, 80 of Columbia Falls, passed away March 7, 2020 at North Valley Hospital. Paul is survived by his wife Barbara and his children Paulette Beaty, Donna Raidi and Jim Wunderlech. Services are pending. Austin Funeral and Cremation Services in Whitefish is caring for Paul’s family.

Wintry blast expected Friday through the weekend

Winter’s not done yet.

Changing tech, consistent dedication

I really enjoyed the column Flannery wrote last week about North Valley Search and Rescue training on the North Fork. In addition to being a North Forker, Flannery is also a new member of North Valley Search and Rescue (NVSR). What she may or may not know is that North Fork training is a renewal of an old tradition.

Columbia Falls job fair draws a crowd as hundreds of positions open

Backslope Brewing needs dishwashers and line cooks. Kalispell Regional Medical Center could use 80 nurses as well as people to work in their information technology branch. Hertz car rental could use people to clean cars.

Community events: Chili feed for history

Help the Columbia Falls Historical Society raise funds for a Columbia Falls Museum by attending the first annual chili dinner fundraiser from 4:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 12 at St. Richard’s Catholic Church. There will also be door prizes, a silent auction, raffle ticket sales and a special slide show on the history of the Aluminum Company. Everyone is invited.

Shawn Hennessey

Shawn Hennessey passed away and was reunited with Diana Hennessey on Feb. 20, 2020 at the age of 52. He leaves behind his two boys Chans and Tristin Hennessey; his best friend and love for the last 12 years Leanne Buzzel; his mom Barbara Hennessey, his two sisters Chris and Heidi Hennessey; and Dad Ralph Hennessey.

Opposes Adams

According to the March 4, 2020 article about the Lake Five Project getting “Green Lighted by the Fathead County Commissioner” the lawyers and judges may get to do what the Flathead Planning Board would not do back on Jan. 8th. I attended that meeting and watched as the planning board ignored the comments of some 40 people who opposed the request for a major land use change.

The Blotter: She’s OK, just cooling off from boyfriend troubles

Tuesday, March 3

Richard Hayes

Richard Hayes, 73, passed away at his home in Columbia Falls on Feb. 24, 2020.

FEC meeting March 21

All Flathead Electric Cooperative members (anyone who pays a bill to FEC) are invited to attend the Co-op’s 83rd annual members’ meeting on March 21.

Columbia Falls students do well at county science fair

Students who did well at the district level last month went on to compete in the Flathead County Science Fair on Feb. 27 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

MudMan looks to return as for-profit business next month

MudMan Burgers is back — almost.

Girls on the Run

Girls from Ruder and Glacier Gateway elementary schools are training to run a 5 kilometer cross-country race later this spring.

Trump now supports conservation funding, Senate responds

A recent tweet by President Donald Trump now has Montana’s Senate delegation back on track to pass permanent funding for the Land, Water and Conservation Fund and to fund a backlog of maintenance projects in national parks.

Winter greens

The snow is just receding from lawns and gardens throughout Columbia Falls, but lush, verdant heads of kale, chard, lettuce and even basil are already being tended by students at Glacier Gateway Elementary.

Yesterdays: Starving Blackfeet saved by elk migration out of Glacier Park

70 years ago

Wizard of Oz starts tonight!

The Columbia Falls High School Theater troupe will present “The Wizard of Oz” this week at the high school Little Theater. Shows are Thursday at 6 p.m., Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Cast includes a host of high school players and local youngsters as Munchkins. Tickets are $5 per person, $20 per family. Directed by Hannah and Joel Landis. Doors open a half hour before the show. Shown here are April West as the Scarecrow and Jaydon Toftum as the Lion.

The bare management bill

A classic G. George Ostrom Column from 1989...

No headline

He was born Hollister Pat McVay 100 years ago.

County eyes floating 911 levy, again

Flathead County will likely float a new mill levy request this fall to pay for 911 services. The proposed levy language hasn’t been set yet, but the topic of the levy has come up at several Columbia Falls City Council meetings as of late.

Bullock will challenge Daines after all; local races set

Monday was the last day to file for elections.

Boys and Girls Club fundraiser features chance at a private jet from party to Vegas

The Boys and Girls Club of Glacier Country continues to work out costs and logistics of building a new structure in Columbia Falls or using the old junior high for its programs, board President Justin Lee said last week.

Columbia Falls students not canceling travel plans due to coronavirus

Columbia Falls High School has no plans to restrict student travel at this point due to the coronavirus.

Highway 206 work starts next year

The Montana Department of Transportation is proposing the addition of upgraded sidewalks near the Secondary Highway 206 and U.S. Highway 2 intersection.

No headline

Paul Pasco

Changing tech, consistent dedication

I really enjoyed the column Flannery wrote last week about North Valley Search and Rescue training on the North Fork. In addition to being a North Forker, Flannery is also a new member of North Valley Search and Rescue (NVSR). What she may or may not know is that North Fork training is a renewal of an old tradition.

Columbia Falls job fair draws a crowd as hundreds of positions open

Backslope Brewing needs dishwashers and line cooks. Kalispell Regional Medical Center could use 80 nurses as well as people to work in their information technology branch. Hertz car rental could use people to clean cars.

No headline

Chili dinner

No headline

Shawn Hennessey

Opposes Adams

According to the March 4, 2020 article about the Lake Five Project getting “Green Lighted by the Fathead County Commissioner” the lawyers and judges may get to do what the Flathead Planning Board would not do back on Jan. 8th. I attended that meeting and watched as the planning board ignored the comments of some 40 people who opposed the request for a major land use change.

No headline

Tuesday, March 3

FEC meeting March 21

All Flathead Electric Cooperative members (anyone who pays a bill to FEC) are invited to attend the Co-op’s 83rd annual members’ meeting on March 21.

No headline

Richard Hayes

Columbia Falls students do well at county science fair

Students who did well at the district level last month went on to compete in the Flathead County Science Fair on Feb. 27 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

Girls on the Run

Girls from Ruder and Glacier Gateway elementary schools are training to run a 5 kilometer cross-country race later this spring.

Winter greens

The snow is just receding from lawns and gardens throughout Columbia Falls, but lush, verdant heads of kale, chard, lettuce and even basil are already being tended by students at Glacier Gateway Elementary.

Trump now supports conservation funding, Senate responds

A recent tweet by President Donald Trump now has Montana’s Senate delegation back on track to pass permanent funding for the Land, Water and Conservation Fund and to fund a backlog of maintenance projects in national parks.

No headline

70 years ago

The bare management bill

A classic G. George Ostrom Column from 1989...

Wintry blast expected Friday through the weekend

Winter’s not done yet.

MudMan looks to return next month

MudMan Burgers is back — almost.

Legals March 5, 2020

No. 1682 COLUMBIA FALLS CITY-COUNTY PLANNING BOARD AND ZONING COMMISSION There are two (2) existing county vacancies on this board. Applicants must reside within the planning jurisdictional area but outside the city limits of Columbia Falls. Each of the existing terms will run through December 31, 2020. TO APPLY FOR ANY OF THESE POSITIONS: Letters of interest (please specify which board/committee you are applying for) including name, physical address, mailing address, daytime phone number and qualifications should be submitted to: Angela Phillips Flathead County Planning and Zoning Office South Campus Building 40 11th Street West, Ste. 220 Kalispell, MT 59901 All letters of interest should be received by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 17, 2020. For additional information and specific qualifications please call 751-8200. January 1, 8, 15, 2020 MNAXLP __________________________

Wizard of Oz starts tonight!

The Columbia Falls High School Theater troupe will present “The Wizard of Oz” this week at the high school Little Theater. Shows are Thursday at 6 p.m., Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Cast includes a host of high school players and local youngsters as Munchkins. Tickets are $5 per person, $20 per family. Directed by Hannah and Joel Landis. Doors open a half hour before the show. Shown here are April West as the Scarecrow and Jaydon Toftum as the Lion.

Legals for March, 5 2020

The new neighbor

I knocked on the window twice.

Lake Five project gets green light, but legal action looms

Flathead County Commissioners last week approved a major land use permit that would add several guest cabins to plots of land along Lake Five near West Glacier, though the threat of a legal challenge appears to loom.

Feeding the Mind: Breakfast program shows rewards, but could use more funding

It’s a Friday morning in Trista Schaeffer’s kindergarten class. Kids line up at the sink before classes even start, wash their hands and then get in line.

Nonresident boaters will need new pass before launching in Montana

Nonresident boaters and anglers visiting Montana will see new rules regarding aquatic invasive species this year, including a fee reduction for anglers.

Vaqueros restaurant getting a facelift

The Columbia Falls Mexican cuisine restaurant Vaqueros, is joining the groundswell of business revitalizations that have occurred on Nucleus Avenue within the past few years. The building is currently undergoing an external remodel.

North Fork SAR expertise

The skies were abuzz in the North Fork this past weekend. North Valley Search and Rescue members gathered at the Ogle’s for the first field training up this way in a while. Mark Heaphy could not have executed it any better and more graciously (though he’ll insist, undoubtedly as any leader would, that the help from many, probably mostly his wife Margaret, made it possible). From the snowstorm he prompted only as the helicopter left the scene to the timing of the hoist operation training, where a few, shall we say, dedicated and hearty volunteers signed up to be hoisted up in the air, by only a cable, some 150 to 200 feet to the ship. I mean that’s a real leap of faith on Leap Day.

A warm, wet winter

Kalispell had its third warmest winter on record with an average high of 30 degrees, but the Flathead River Basin snowpack is still well above average at 120 percent, as of the first week of March.

Kats’ shooting goes cold as they go 0-2 in divisional tourney

It was a tough way to end a good season, as the Columbia Falls girls basketball team went 0-2 in the Western A Divisional tournament last week in Ronan.

Dwayne Norman Nelson

Dwayne Norman Nelson, 86, passed away on Feb. 21, 2020 at his home in Columbia Falls.

Dime-a-Dozen millionaires

A classic G. George Ostrom Column from 2004...

Future looks brighter for boys basketball program

While the Columbia Falls boys basketball season came to a disappointing end, the future is looking brighter for the program and the Wildcats should have a solid core of players with varsity experience coming back next year.

Free the Seeds event this weekend at FVCC

Gardeners can learn to make an indoor worm-composting bin from the composting queen herself, Alissa LaChance of Dirt Rich Composting, at the fifth annual Free the Seeds event this Saturday, March 7 at the Flathead Valley Community College Arts and Technology Building. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will feature a multitude of events to teach, answer questions and even provide materials for anyone interested in sustainable agriculture, from beginners to experts.

For the Love of Quilts

For Edna Cotton, quilting and sewing has been more than just creating beautiful blankets. It’s been therapeutic as well.

West Glacier restaurant, hotel, gets first OK

The Middle Canyon Land Use Advisory Committee last week unanimously approved a motion to recommend granting a major land use permit to Hunter’s Lair LLC to develop a restaurant and hotel on 36 acres of land just south of Glacier National Park.

Community events

The third annual Columbia Falls Job Fair will be open for the public from 3:45 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 5 at the high school gymnasium.

Yesterdays: 45 tons of ice harvested from Lion Lake

70 years ago

Knutson selected for Montana Indian Athletic Hall of Fame

Longtime Columbia Falls High School coach and teacher Wes Knutson will be inducted into the Montana Indian Athletic Hall of Fame next month.

The Blotter: Woman rolls car over, but says she’s fine

Tuesday, Feb. 25

Plan would expand cell phone service in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park has released a scoping plan that would increase cell phone coverage in the park.

When women were Republicans

Women were once Republicans. In this centennial year of women’s suffrage, it is interesting to see what a difference a century can make.

Kris Lydell Tredway

Kris Lydell Tredway

Kris Lydell Tredway was born Nov. 22, 1957, in Whitefish to Irene and Leroy Tredway. He grew up in Columbia Falls. In 1977, he joined the Air Force, stationed at Charleston AFB, South Carolina. He worked in aircraft hydraulic systems during his four years of service, attaining the rank of Sergeant. After discharge, he worked briefly in Alaska as a fishing guide.

Folks who travel are reminded about REAL ID requirements

In preparation for the Oct. 1, 2020, federally enforced deadline for identification changes to fly domestically or enter secure federal facilities, the Montana Department of Justice’s Motor Vehicle Division has issued a reminder and information about obtaining a REAL ID.

Lake Five project gets green light, but legal action looms

Flathead County Commissioners last week approved a major land use permit that would add several guest cabins to plots of land along Lake Five near West Glacier, though the threat of a legal challenge appears to loom.

The new neighbor

I knocked on the window twice.

Feeding the Mind: Breakfast program shows rewards, but could use more funding

It’s a Friday morning in Trista Schaeffer’s kindergarten class. Kids line up at the sink before classes even start, wash their hands and then get in line.

Vaqueros restaurant getting a facelift

The Columbia Falls Mexican cuisine restaurant Vaqueros, is joining the groundswell of business revitalizations that have occurred on Nucleus Avenue within the past few years. The building is currently undergoing an external remodel.

Nonresident boaters will need new pass before launching in Montana

Nonresident boaters and anglers visiting Montana will see new rules regarding aquatic invasive species this year, including a fee reduction for anglers.

Knutson selected for Montana Indian Athletic Hall of Fame

Longtime Columbia Falls High School coach and teacher Wes Knutson will be inducted into the Montana Indian Athletic Hall of Fame next month.

A warm, wet winter

Kalispell had its third warmest winter on record with an average high of 30 degrees, but the Flathead River Basin snowpack is still well above average at 120 percent, as of the first week of March.

North Fork SAR expertise

The skies were abuzz in the North Fork this past weekend. North Valley Search and Rescue members gathered at the Ogle’s for the first field training up this way in a while. Mark Heaphy could not have executed it any better and more graciously (though he’ll insist, undoubtedly as any leader would, that the help from many, probably mostly his wife Margaret, made it possible). From the snowstorm he prompted only as the helicopter left the scene to the timing of the hoist operation training, where a few, shall we say, dedicated and hearty volunteers signed up to be hoisted up in the air, by only a cable, some 150 to 200 feet to the ship. I mean that’s a real leap of faith on Leap Day.

Kats' shooting goes cold as they go 0-2 in divisional tourney

It was a tough way to end a good season, as the Columbia Falls girls basketball team went 0-2 in the Western A Divisional tournament last week in Ronan.

Future looks brighter for boys basketball program

While the Columbia Falls boys basketball season came to a disappointing end, the future is looking brighter for the program and the Wildcats should have a solid core of players with varsity experience coming back next year.

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Dwayne Norman Nelson

Dime-a-Dozen millionaires

A classic G. George Ostrom Column from 2004...

Free the Seeds event this weekend at FVCC

Gardeners can learn to make an indoor worm-composting bin from the composting queen herself, Alissa LaChance of Dirt Rich Composting, at the fifth annual Free the Seeds event this Saturday, March 7 at the Flathead Valley Community College Arts and Technology Building. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and will feature a multitude of events to teach, answer questions and even provide materials for anyone interested in sustainable agriculture, from beginners to experts.

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For Edna Cotton, quilting and sewing has been more than just creating beautiful blankets. It’s been therapeutic as well.

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Job fair

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70 years ago

No headline

Tuesday, Feb. 25

When women were Republicans

Women were once Republicans. In this centennial year of women’s suffrage, it is interesting to see what a difference a century can make.

Folks who travel are reminded about REAL ID requirements

In preparation for the Oct. 1, 2020, federally enforced deadline for identification changes to fly domestically or enter secure federal facilities, the Montana Department of Justice’s Motor Vehicle Division has issued a reminder and information about obtaining a REAL ID.

142 animals test positive for Chronic Wasting Disease

The 2019 sampling for chronic wasting disease began April 1 and ceased near the end of January. Among other results the testing yielded Montana’s first detection of the disease in moose and elk.

Glacier's 'sister' park in Mongolia has many similarities to Montana

Glacier National Park has a sister, a half world away.