Flathead Beacon Podcasts

On June 12, the lawsuit Held v. State of Montana will go to trial in Helena's district court. In the lawsuit, brought by 16 youth plaintiffs from across Montana, allege that Montana, through its executive agencies, has knowingly approved projects and implemented policies that support a fossil-fuel based energy system that adds dangerous levels of greenhouse gas pollution to the atmosphere, contributing to climate change, damaging Montana's environment and harming the state's youth. The lawsuit is predicated on the Montana Constitution, written in 1972, which enshrines the right to a clean and healthful environment for present and future generations. The Flathead Beacon has produced a comprehensive reporting package on the lawsuit's background, constitutional underpinnings and some of the young plaintiffs. All the reporting, including updates from the two-week trial that begins June 12, can be read at mtclimatecase.flatheadbeacon.com.Later, Micah runs through the news of the week.RELATED LINKSMontana Youth Prepare for Trial in Bellwether Climate Case Against StateWho is ‘Held' of Held v. State of Montana?'To a Clean and Healthful Environment'Temporary Emergency Water Conservation Ordinance Approved in KalispellBear Injures Raft Guide Camping Along Middle Fork Flathead RiverWaterton-Glacier Announces Reopening of Goat Haunt Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.The introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Northwest Montana has produced its fair share of singers and songwriters, including the indie-folk duo Big Sky City Lights, made up of Whitefish's Nick Spear and New York City's Susan O'Dea. The two met more than a decade ago, and during the pandemic began remotely writing and recording together. That remote relationship eventually turned into a full length album in 2021 and the duo is hard at work developing a new body of work that will become a second album. In addition, Big Sky City Lights will be touring this summer with a June 3 stop in Kalispell. Host Micah Drew spoke to Nick and Susan about their meeting in Whitefish, the effect living two timezones apart has on their creative process and how performing live shows has played into their newer music.Later, Micah runs through the news of the week.RELATED LINKSBig Sky City Lights Looks Ahead to June Show at FVCC's Wachholz Center68th Montana Legislature AdjournsTwo Incumbents, One Newcomer Win Trustee Positions in Columbia Falls School ElectionKalispell Voters Retain One Incumbent Trustee, Pass Elementary and Reject High School LevyConservation District Appoints Hearing Officer in McDonald Creek Home DisputeFollow Big Sky City Lights on Spotify, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.The introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Spring isn't normally thought of as election season, but in the education world it is. May 2 is election day for municipal elections in the Flathead Valley, including school board and school levy elections in Kalispell, Columbia Falls, Whitefish and several other districts around the valley. Flathead Beacon reporter Denali Sagner joins host Micah to offer a preview of the various races that will show up on school ballots this spring. Later, Micah runs through the news of the week.RELATED LINKSKalispell School District No. 5 2023 Election: Voter GuideColumbia Falls District No. 6 2023 Election: Voter GuideKalispell Public Schools to Hire Interim SuperintendentColumbia Falls City Council Rejects 7030 Highway 2 Residences DevelopmentKalispell Approves Property Acquisition Next to Parkline TrailRead more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.The introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Since the Montana constitution was crafted in 1972, there have only been 34 changes made to the state's governing document, a rate of less than one per year. However over the last three months of the 68th legislative session, Montana Republicans have introduced a record 67 constitutional amendments. This week, Flathead Beacon reporter Denali Sagner wrote about the crossroads the state constitution is facing with multiple efforts, almost all unsuccessful, to alter it. To gain additional insight, host Micah Drew reached out to political analyst and director of the University of Montana School of Journalism Lee Banville, who joins the podcast to share some of his observations from the legislative session. Later, Micah runs through the news of the week.RELATED LINKSA Constitution at a CrossroadsU.S. Census: Flathead County Adds Most Residents in MontanaBaseball Teams Face Delays, lingering Snow with Start of Inaugural SeasonGianforte Discusses Work-Based Learning at Kalispell RoundtableRead more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.The introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At 8 a.m. on March 15, Glacier National Park's advance online reservation window opened to a groundswell of prospective backpackers eager to nab a prized wilderness campground permit. Within 10 minutes, however, the park's most coveted campsites had filled, and the reservation window slammed shut on a host of highly sought-after multi-day itineraries.The new online system is part of a nationwide shift toward online, contact-less reservations to access outdoor spaces.Will Rice, the head of the Wildland and Recreation Management Research Lab at the University of Montana uses social science to help wildland recreation managers improve the experiences of all visitors while preserving the ecosystems that support those experiences, and has published studies on different access strategies for recreation spaces like campgrounds. Dr. Rice joined host Micah Drew to talk about his research, how an online system can be exclusionary and what the solutions to managing access to popular outdoor spaces may look like in the future.Later, Micah runs through the news of the week.RELATED LINKSMarch 29 E-EditionAre Online Reservations the Key to Solving Montana's Campground Crunch?MDT Announces Roadway Safety Improvements Planned in Flathead CountyDoctors Warn Abortion Bill Would Restrict Montana Obstetric CareGlacier Symphony and Virtuoso Violinist Midori to Perform at McClaren HallRead more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.The introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On May 23, 2007, with the newspaper industry in steep decline, the Flathead Valley awoke to an unlikely new resident: a 24-page tabloid called the Flathead Beacon. The weekly paper, owned by television personality and part-time Bigfork resident Maury Povich, has produced 823 issues over the last 16 years, and on March 28th, the final print issue of the Beacon will hit newsstands in the Flathead Valley.However, the Flathead Beacon news organization isn't going away — it's shifting to a digital-only focus, with more, faster, and innovative ways of bringing breaking and in depth news to our readers. The Beacon will also retain a few print products in the form of its flagship magazine Flathead Living (on stands this week). Beacon editor in chief Kellyn Brown joined the podcast to talk about the state of the news industry, the decision to stop printing the newspaper and what readers and supporters of the Flathead Beacon can expect from now on. Later, host Micah Drew runs through the news of the week. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSMarch 22 E-EditionAfter 16 Years Printing a Weekly Newspaper, Flathead Beacon to Switch to Online-Only FormatAmid Extensive Opposition, Bill to Ban Gender-Affirming Care for Minors Passes Second Reading in Montana HouseLow-cost Airline Carrier to Offer Seasonal Direct Flight to Los AngelesSummer Construction Projects will Cause Delays, Closures in Glacier National ParkThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Republican Mark Racicot served as the 21st governor of Montana from 1993 to 2001 who then went on to lead the Republican National Committee and serve as chair of George W. Bush's reelection campaign in 2004. In recent years, however, Racicot has emerged as a vocal critic of the Republican Party's direction, and his opposition of Donald Trump and Trump-supporting Republicans, including U.S. Representative Ryan Zinke has drawn the ire of the Montana GOP. On Feb 16, the Montana Republican State Central Committee released a letter officially rebuking the former governor, and stating that he was no longer a member of the party and should not be considered as someone who speaks for the GOP. Beacon reporter Denali Sagner spent an afternoon with Racicot and shares some of her conversation with him about how politics has changed since he was involved and his reaction to being excommunicated from his party. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSMarch 1 E-EditionThe Party FaithfulThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The 68th Montana legislature is in session planning out the budget for the next biennium and working to move of bills through the house and senate chambers each week. Today is the 25th day of this legislative cycle, with the session wrapping up at the beginning of May.Flathead Beacon reporters Denali Sagner, Mike Kordenbrock and Maggie Dresser joined host Micah Drew to to talk about legislation they've been tracking throughout January and share updates to their reporting. To find detailed information about bills, contact your local legislator or watch and listen to proceedings, visit www.leg.mt.gov/.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSFebruary 1 E-EditionSenate Judiciary Committee Passes Bill to Ban Gender-Affirming Medical Care for MinorsColumbia Falls Legislator Withdraws Mandatory Fetal Death Certificate Proposal After Extensive PushbackBill Seeks to Expand Sexual Assault Response Resources‘We Are Losing Money Every Month'New Medicaid Proposal Would Limit Abortion AccessKalispell Senator's Bill Seeks to Tighten Laws on Impact FeesThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On November 8, citizens across America will cast their ballots for local, state and national elections, except for those who have already voted by mail. In Flathead County, more than 22,000 voters have already submitted their ballots. Flathead Beacon managing editor Tristan Scott joined host Micah Drew to break down some of the races on the ballot and offer his insight into this year's midterm elections. To check your voter status, visit the Montana My Voter page, or visit the Flathead County election office in Kalispell, where you can still register to vote until 8 p.m. on election day. If you have yet to cast a ballot, check out our election preview coverage online. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSNovember 3 E-Edition2022 Midterm Election GuideThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In July, the nonprofit Quiet Parks International (QPI) acknowledged Glacier National Park with its Wilderness Quiet Park award, the first of its kind in North America. The award "reinforces the natural sounds educational efforts the park makes to distinguish the natural soundscape from noise, and the importance of the visitors' opportunity for that experience."Host Micah Drew reported on this award over the last few months, and brings together some excerpted conversations with QPI co-founder Gordon Hempton, Wilderness Quiet Park director Matt Mikkelson, QPI sound recordist Nick McMahon and Quiet! Glacier founder Mary McClelland, who nominated Glacier for the award. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSSeptember 9 E-EditionA Quiet Park Quiet Parks International Quiet! GlacierThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week the Flathead Beacon published its annual Drinks Edition, where instead of a single in depth feature article, the staff brought together a package of thematically linked stories about various things that can be consumed via straw, glass or mug. Certainly the most striking piece was the subject of the Beacon's cover image: a bloody mary cocktail topped with a virtual bouquet of fried food. Micah Drew brings Beacon staff writer Mike Kordenbrock and media director Hunter D'Antuono up to the podcast studio to tell the tale of two bloody marys from opposing sides of Flathead Lake, and how the story, and photos, came into being. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSAugust 18 E-EditionBloody Mary: 'A Blessing and a Curse'Frozen Food Powered by the SunFrom Seed to TeaClever Flavor Combinations at Stone Hill Kitchen and BarBig Mountain CiderworksInciWeb Fire Information The introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

The weekend of July 22, three fatalities occurred in Glacier National Park. Two fatalities were 67-year-old Brian Kennedy and 67-year-old Jack Beard, who died in a climbing accident on Dusty Star Mountain. Both were long time climbers, adventurers and members of the Glacier Mountaineering Society. The third death was a hiker visiting from Florida.These tragedies, along with a fourth hiking death earlier this year, show the risks of being in the back country, whether hiking, climbing or skiing, for any level of adventurer. From natural disasters, random accidents or simple mistakes, a day in the backcountry can take unexpected turns very quickly.This week on the podcast, Micah Drew brings two stories of outings in Glacier National Park that went sideways, but ended with all parties home safely. These are the stories you always want to be able to tell if things go wrong — everyone's okay in the end and they're able to share their experiences and hopefully something can be learned from them. Both guests, Whitefish's Colton Born and Kalispell's Pete Heyboer were in Glacier Park the same weekend the three tragedies occurred.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSAugust 3 E-EditionThe Last MountainLatest on the Elmo FireThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

"It has been in our hearts since we started that something would come to fruition in the Flathead, so it seems wild that everything fell together the way it did." ~Jeremiah JohnsonTwo and a half years ago, the Flathead Valley's oldest craft beer establishment in downtown Whitefish closed its doors, The only thing brewing inside the iconic building since then has been rumors. Just this week however, the Blackstar Draught House reopened its doors in a new partnership with Jeremiah Johnson Brewing Co. to bring the taproom and restaurant back to life. Jeremiah Johnson himself took some time to chat with host Micah Drew about his ties to the valley, how long he's wanted to open a brewpub in the area and what it took to finally realize that dream.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSJuly 20 E-EditionFlathead Living Summer 2022A Brewery Born AgainCommunity Group Grows Frustrated After KM Ranch Road Hearing PostponedPlanning Board Meeting on River Highlands Development to Take Place at Larger VenueThe Event Turns 21The introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Summer is in full swing now that we've passed the Fourth of July holidays, and with that comes hordes of tourists, great weather for spending time on the lakes or hiking to a new mountaintop, and of course, the summer issue of Flathead Living Magazine.The new issue of the magazine hit stands June 28, and so host Micah Drew tracked down Flathead Living managing editor Justin Franz in his Columbia Falls home last week to talk to him about the new issue. The interview was recorded on June 30. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSJuly 6 E-EditionFlathead Living Summer 2022Crews Continue to Clear Snow as Glacier's Sun Road Prepares for Delayed OpeningDeveloper Seeks to Build 455 Units of Housing East of Columbia FallsLibrary Board Appointment Sparks BacklashThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Temperatures are climbing back to a summer-like range after historic levels of rain and several inches of snow in the mountains earlier this week. With that summer feeling, host Micah Drew brings you the second part of our Meet the Intern series. Denali Sagner hit the ground running last week when she showed up in Kalispell freshly graduated from the University of Pennsylvania. She got her first bylines in the Beacon writing about COVID restrictions in Glacier National Park and working with Micah and the two Beacon photographers on the Best of Preps issue this week. She chats about her journey to Montana and her goals for her journalistic future.Links to Denali's work are linked below!Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSJune 15 E-EditionLasting Scars — Denali Sagner in 34th StreetLegal Weed Means Higher House Values, Report Says— Denali Sagner for Philidelphia MagazineBest of Preps: Spring 2022Rain Dampens Field, Not Spirits at Inaugural Range Riders Opening DayTour Divide Cyclist Rescued in Glacier ParkThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's the first week of June which means summer is fast approaching, and to steal a phrase from Flathead Beacon managing editor Tristan Scott, :The best sign in the Zodiac is alighting on the horizon… Internicus."This summer, the Beacon's editorial team will be welcoming Twinterns, with both a print and a photojournalist set to join us in the newsroom. Thursday was day one for our photojournalist intern, Sarah Mosquera, and she spent it up the North Fork with Tristan shooting a Bear Aware workshop, followed by photo editing boot camp with media director Hunter D'antuono before being whisked up to the podcast studio to talk about the journey she took to discovering her passion for photography and storytelling.Links to Sarah's work are linked below! Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSJune 1 E-EditionWelcoming Them Home — Sarah Mosquera in Byline MagazineA Bison Range Homecoming — Sarah Mosquera for Montana Free PressInstagramThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In 2020, legislation to return an 18,524-acre parcel of land in the middle of the Flathead Indian Reservation to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) was signed into law. Just over a year later, the Bison Range, along with the herd of 455 buffalo, returned to tribal management after 112 years. The tribes held a three day celebration to commemorate the restoration of the land and animals to their people. Host Micah Drew spent two days at the celebrations listening to speeches, songs and prayers offered up for the occasions, and in this episode of the podcast he shares some of what he heard. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSMay 23 E-EditionReturn of the BuffaloFundraising to Save FarmlandTime to Get WildFarmers Markets Springing Back to LifeThe introductory music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission. This episode also featured the "Victory Song" performed by members of the CSKT. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The old Flathead County Courthouse is the most iconic building in Kalispell, if for no other reason than everyone passing through the center of town has to drive in a circle around it. The courthouse building was constructed in 1905, and originally was built with an odd feature: the prominent clocktower never held a clock, just four blank holes, until 2015. On the third floor of the courthouse lie the commissioners chambers and offices. Three commissioners, Pam Holmquist, Randy Brodehl and Brad Abell make up the elected government of the county, each serving staggered six-year terms.This year, Pam Holmquist's second term is up, and while she running for re-election, three republican challengers are facing off against her in the primary. With no filed Democratic opponent, the June 7 primary winner will take a seat on the commission. Host Micah Drew spent last week interviewing each candidate on their backgrounds and motivations for running, and he invited Flathead Beacon editor in chief Kellyn Brown to join me on the podcast to talk about the race.Later in the show, Micah runs through some other news of the week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSMay 11 E-EditionCounty at a CrossroadsCounty Courthouse to Install Clocks in TowerDave Roemer Selected as Superintendent of Glacier National ParkWhitefish Adopts Ordinance Requiring Bear-resistant Garbage CansThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Host Micah spend last weekend in Spokane Washington, where the Bloomsday run was returning to the streets after two years off due to the pandemic. Bloomsday, a 7.4 mile road race, is one of the largest events in the country, averaging more than 40,000 runners in pre-pandemic years. In addition to getting to run himself, Micah was there to watch several runners from the Flathead compete in the elite division, including Bigfork High School graduate Makena Morley (2nd overall female, first American), Flathead High School graduate Zach Perrin (15th overall male), and Whitefish resident Jenn Lichter (8th overall, 4th American).Makena and Jenn joined the podcast on Thursday to talk about about their experiences at Bloomsday and what this means for their running careers this year.Later in the show, Micah runs through some other news of the week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSMay 4 E-EditionBloomsday ResultsStretched ThinVoters Elect Mumby, Cheff to Columbia Falls School BoardKalispell Voters Reject School Levy, Retain One IncumbentIncumbent Trustees Win Whitefish School Board RaceThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's an even numbered year this year, which means the election season in the fall will feature 435 races for the U.S. House of Representatives. Unique this year is that our state will play host to two different Congressional races, as Montana gained a U.S. House seat following the 2020 census. The new open seat has launched crowded primaries as both major parties seek the best candidate to send to the general election. Flathead Beacon managing editor Tristan Scott attended both the Republican primary debate and Democratic candidate forum last week and broke them down in this week's edition of the paper. He joined host Micah Drew on the podcast to give his hot takes on all those running and some inter-party divisions.Later in the show, Micah runs through some other news of the week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSApril 28 E-EditionCongressional GOP Candidates Take Aim at ZinkeDemocratic Congressional Hopefuls Converge on KalispellVoters To Choose From Among 6 Candidates for Columbia Falls School BoardFactions Emerge in Whitefish School Board RaceTwo Incumbents, Four Newcomers Vie for Kalispell School Board PositionsThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week the Flathead Beacon's annual music issue hit the stands. The featured stories focused on musical threads from a guide to Montana's summer concerts and festivals to musician profiles to looking at Flathead high school's new marching band uniforms. One profile, Confessions of a Serial Songwriter, was written by Flathead Beacon managing editor Tristan Scott and delved into the career of Whitefish-born singer-songwriter Izaak Opatz. Izaak will be playing a release party for his new album, Extra Medium, in Missoula next Friday and he joined the podcast to talk about his inspirations, being a songwriter during COVID, and what his future holds.Later in the show, Micah runs through some other news of the week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSApril 20 E-EditionConfessions of a Serial SongwriterWhitefish Mountain Resort Closes Out Another Banner YearGlacier Park Announces Changes to Sun Road Cycling, Campground ReservationsFlathead Valley Construction Fraudster Sentenced to 70 Months in PrisonThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Listening note: There were some technical difficulties near the middle of the show, so forgive the clipped audio transition. "I realized really quickly that a mountain lion, the issues and the fear about them was a surrogate for human coexistence. That's where it was at. The science is fun and you get to be in discovery mode, but to move the needle on acceptance and coexistence... that's all about relationships." ~ JimWilliams, biologist/wildlife manager/regional supervisor with Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks.After spending 25 years ascending the ranks with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, biologist Jim Williams retired as the Region 1 Supervisor, overlooking all aspects of the department in Northwest Montana. Jim's career has always been based around wildlife, working as a marine mammal trainer, an alligator wrestler and shark tamer, mountain lion researcher... you name it! Flathead Beacon managing editor Tristan Scott profiled Jim for his cover story "The Spaces Between" in this week' Flathead Beacon and Jim joined host Micah Drew to talk about the breadth and length of his career, and what he's doing next, which certainly is not slowing down and truly retiring.Later in the show, Micah runs through some other news of the week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSApril 13 E-EditionThe Spaces Between$1.5 Million Kalispell High School Levy Heads to VotersBoston or BustGoing-to-the-Sun Road Construction Slated to Begin in JuneBigfork High School Moves to Class AThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Three times a year, reporter and podcast host Micah Drew teams up with media director and photographer Hunter D'Antuono to produce the Best of Preps issue of the Beacon. The issue identifies some of the top athlete's from across the Flathead Valley and combines short vignettes about their accolades with "sportraiture" — artsy, creative studio photos imagined and executed by Hunter. For the winter Preps issue, Hunter ordered several glass prisms to try and see how he could bend light and capture each athlete in a different, ethereal way. Hunter joined the podcast to talk about his creative process. Later in the show, Micah runs through some other news of the week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSMarch 25 E-EditionBest of Preps — Winter 2022EPA Moves to End Asbestos Cleanup Along Montana RailroadGlacier Raft Company Sells to PursuitThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Ted Kacynski, known as the Unabomber, brought a lot of attention to the small town of Lincoln Montana during his high profile arrest in 1996 following a spree of bombings. Several documentaries, TV movies and shows have been inspired by Kazynski, but the latest film, 'Ted K', which had its North American premiere in Missoula in February, takes a different lens to the main character. Tony Stone wrote, directed and produced Ted K, and earlier this week host Micah Drew spoke with him about his work in the film industry, what it was like bringing the story to life and how important Montana, and the town of Lincoln, was to the process.Later in the show, Micah runs through the latest news of the week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSMarch 16 E-Edition‘Ted K' Brings Unabomber Back to LincolnFirst Units Completed at New High-end ApartmentsBlacktail Mountain Joins ‘Powder Alliance' Pass ProgramCanada to Drop COVID Tests for Vaccinated VisitorsThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from Montana singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Flathead Beacon Managing Editor Tristan Scott was in Missoula last week reporting on the sentencing of Matt Marshall, the CEO of Whitefish securities firm Amyntor Group, who conned venture capitalist Michael Goguen out of millions of dollars. Marshall pretended to be a former CIA agent engaged in covert missions around the world in order to convince Goguen to fund secret operations, but in reality ended up pocketing the money. On March 3, Marshall was sentenced to six years in prison and ordered to pay $3.2 million dollars in restitution. Marshall was charged with wire fraud, money laundering and tax evasion for a scheme that began back in 2013. Tristan has been covering the Matt Marshall case for years, and joins the podcast to break down the story into audibly digestible nuggets for your consumption.Later in the show, Micah runs through the latest news of the week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSMarch 9 E-EditionScheme to Defraud Goguen Nets Whitefish Man 6 Years in Federal PrisonLogan Health Notifies Patients of Data Breach That Affected Thousands of MontanansKalispell Man Sentenced to 100 Years in Prison for Killing his WifeLack of Staffing Could Force Closure of County Extension Office, Pause 4-H ProgramsMHSA State Basketball BracketsThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from local singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Justin Franz, former Flathead Beacon intern, whose old desk host Micah now stands at, took over as editor of Flathead Living for the winter issue. He's been in the Beacon office all week scribbling on printed pages, working with designers and overall haranguing staffers over their work. Franz took a few moments to pop into the podcast studio to chat about the process of producing a magazine, what some of his highlights are for the upcoming issue and whether the magazine will arrive in a timely manner this time around. And trains. He always manages to talk about trains.Later in the show, Micah runs through yesterday's breaking news. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSMarch 3 E-EditionFlathead LivingScheme to Defraud Goguen Nets Whitefish Man 6 Years in Federal PrisonFlathead Again Seeks Football CoachA Locomotive for KalispellThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from local singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

"There's so many things in our society that have gotten homogenized. We eat the same French Fries, we drink the same Starbucks coffee exactly the same. We're even starting to talk the same as you go to different parts of the country but housing is totally unique. The prices are different, the taxes are different, the style and availability are different and people don't realize that until you start researching it." ~ Pat BarkeyFor years, residents of the Flathead Valley have seen rising housing and rental prices as the area becomes more popular, a trend that was only exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and work-from-home movement, which saw record growth in the area.Pat Barkey, the director of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana has been involved with economic forecasting and policy research for more than 30 years, and recently gave an economic outlook seminar in Kalispell that focused on the rippling effects of high housing costs. He joins host Micah Drew to talk about the trends seen in the Flathead as well as around the state, and breaks down some of the data from the most recent studies.Later in the show, Micah runs through the latest news of the week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSFebruary 23 E-EditionThe Rippling Effects of High Housing CostsSolving the Housing CrisisA Queen, A Writer, an Assassin and a Spy Walk onto a Whitefish StageGlacier Institute Takes Reins of Le Grizz UltramarathonBen Perrin Sees Every Race as a BlessingThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from local singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Residents of the Flathead Valley have been treated to a decade of live New Wave 80s cover music performed on the regular by the band New Wave Time Trippers. Earlier this month, the band played their last public show in Whitefish as part of the festivities for this year's Winter Carnival parade, which an aptly 80s themed affair. The now former lead singer of the Time Trippers, Nick Spear, took some time out of his week to reminisce about the early days of the band and how they managed to stay relevant and bring excitement and energy to each show they've played since 2013.Later in the show, host Micah Drew runs through the latest news of the week including an investigation into former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, new legislation aimed at helping overcrowded national parks and Flathead High School's continued dominance in wrestling. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSFebruary 16 E-EditionA New Wave GoodbyeInvestigation: Zinke Misused Position as Interior SecretaryAs Crowds Strain Gateway Communities to National Parks, Lawmakers Seek SolutionsRevamping the HiltonBrave Brawlers Back to BackThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from local singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Just dropping by to let you know that starting this week, the Flathead Beacon Podcast will come out on Friday mornings. That just means you have an extra two days to read the print issue of the Flathead Beacon, on stands today, and as always, keep up to date on the latest news from Northwest Montana at www.flatheadbeacon.com See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The intersection of Big Mountain Road and East Lakeshore drive north of Whitefish has long been a staple in conversations about the city's future. The intersection takes locals and visitors too and from Whitefish mountain Resort, and during ski season, the single blinking light often backs up traffic for hours.Discussions over the intersection itself, as well as the surrounding land, have been at the heart of a months-long debate in the community over a large proposed development called the Gateway Mountain Development, that would set the stage for the construction hundreds of residential units as well as commercial properties. Reporter Mike Kordenbrock joins Micah to talk about the Whitefish City Council's Monday night five to one vote to reject the development.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSWhitefish Council Votes Against Mountain Gateway DevelopmentFebruary 9 E-EditionLibrary Foundation Director ResignsCalifornia Woman Charged with Animal Cruelty Pleads Not GuiltyEstate of Longtime Whitefish Residents Behind Hospital Nonprofit's Largest Gift EverFlathead FlyingThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from local singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

For months, the ImagineIF Library board of trustees have been stirring up emotional responses from library staff and the public with a series of controversial votes that have lowered staff salaries, hired an unqualified new director and discussed changing library policies to facilitate the removal of a queer-themed book. These moves have led to lowered staff moral, the departure of three senior librarians including two directors, a loss of state funding and discussions over litigation. Due to some technical difficulties, the interview between Micah and editor in chief Kellyn Brown is unable to be heard, but Micah still runs through the latest stories from the last week including new developments in the controversial Mountain Gateway development, this summer's Under the Big Sky lineup and what to watch for as the 2022 Olympics kick off in Beijing. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSFebruary 2 E-EditionLone Pine State Park to Host Outdoor Education ProgramsOpponents of Whitefish Housing Development Threaten to Pull Charitable DonationsUnder The Big Sky Announces 2022 Festival LineupThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from local singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Across the country there have been winter surges in COVID-19 cases, most related to the Omicron variant, and Montana is not immune. Flathead County is seeing the highest levels of hospitalizations and case numbers since the height of the delta-variant surge last fall and hospital staff are close to being overwhelmed. On Monday, the county health department's last situation update reported 222 new cases, 2701 active cases and 55 hospitalizations.Reporter Mike Kordenbrock joins host Micah Drew to break down some of the latest COVID-19 numbers and what it means for residents.Later, Micah runs through the latest stories from the last week including ongoing litigation over a nearby water bottling plant, the end of Whitefish's permanent recycling site, the approval of a new hotel in Kalispell and the new name for Flathead's professional sports team.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSJanuary 26 E-EditionHospitalizations in Flathead County Nearing Delta Surge NumbersSupreme Court to Determine Legality of Creston Water Bottling PlantWhitefish to Permanently Close Recycling Site Jan. 31Kalispell Council Approves Five-Story Downtown Charles HotelFlathead Valley Baseball Team Reveals Name, LogoFlathead Living E-EditionThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from local singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, "The Good Ol' Days You're In" and "Moment of Time," used with permission. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

After an unexpected week off, host Micah Drew is back to discuss the new landscape of legal marijuana in Montana. After voters approved a measure to legalize the recreational drug in 2020, local dispensaries have been working on scaling up operations in anticipation of the increased market share. On New Year's Day, the first day of legal sales, local shops saw a 500% increase in traffic. Reporter Maggie Dresser rehashes some of her reporting on the rollout of legal marijuana sales from last week. Later, Micah runs through some of the latest headlines from the last week. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSJanuary 12 E-EditionJanuary 19 E-EditionGravel Beach Proposed at New Somers Beach State ParkHealth Department Continues to Face Test Shortage Amid Rising Cases, HospitalizationsWhitefish Winter Carnival Bounces Back With 80s ThemeVoisin Qualifies for Third Olympic TeamWhitefish's Sanderson to Play for U.S.; College Hockey Stars Eye Olympic ChanceFlathead Living E-EditionThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from local singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, The Good Ol' days You're In and Moment of Time, used with permission. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Today host Micah Drew chats with several members of the Flathead Beacon about the upcoming year. Starting next week, the Flathead Beacon Podcast will return to its usual format of bringing an in depth view of the latest news from around the Flathead V alley. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSJanuary 5 E-EditionFlathead BeaconFlathead Living E-EditionThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, The episode also features two songs from local singer/songwriter Mike Murray's album We Are Like Warriors, The Good Ol' days You're In and Moment of Time, used with permission. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Today host Micah Drew chats with Flathead Beacon Editor-in-Chief about the biggest trends affecting northwest Montana in 2021 and what stories he'll be paying attention to in the new year. Later, Micah eschews the news of the week to read a collection of entries from the infamous Flathead Beacon Police Blotter. There's a good chance this will become a regular segment on the podcast next year. There will be no new episode next week, but from everyone here at the Flathead Beacon have a fun, festive holiday week and a happy new year!Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSDecember 22 E-EditionFlathead BeaconPolice BlotterThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Today host Micah Drew shares a brief conversation with Flathead Beacon managing editor Tristan Scott about the latest changes announced for next summer's ticketed reservation entry system at Glacier National Park. Tristan has been covering the effects of the system since it was implemented this year, including overcrowding at lesser visited corners of the park, which officials hope to remedy next year. Later, Micah runs through the latest stories from the last week including the retirement of northwest Montana's resident grizzly bear conflict specialist, updates on plans to replace two bridges near Bigfork, and the start of the winter prep sports season. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSDecember 15 E-EditionGlacier National Park Unveils Details for 2022 Reservation SystemTwo Bigfork Bridges to be ReplacedTrailblazing Grizzly Conflict Specialist to RetireFlathead Wrestlers off to Strong StartThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Once again another issue of Flathead Living Magazine, the new winter edition, is on its way from the printer and will be hitting stands soon. The magazine, which was helmed by former Flathead Beacon managing editor Myers Reece for a number of years, has a new editor, former Beacon staff writer Justin Franz. As the winter issue is almost ready for reading, Justin joins the podcast to talk about his years working on the magazine as a writer, why he loves the magazine format and some of the highlights of the new issue. Later, Micah runs through the latest stories from the last week including the resignation of the interim library director, the temporary head of Glacier National Park, a successful kids vaccination clinic and staffing shortages among snowplow drivers.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSDecember 8 E-EditionFlathead County Library Director Resigns Amid Board MeddlingGlacier Park Names Acting DirectorHealth Department Hosts Mass Children's COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic at FairgroundsSnowplow Staffing Shortage Could Impact RoadwaysThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Several weeks ago, host Micah Drew sat down with founding Flathead Beacon member and former managing editor Myers Reece to talk about his departure from the paper, memories from his nearly 14 year tenure with the paper and his next career move to Portland, Oregon.Later, Micah runs through the latest stories from the last week including the end of the hunting season, an effort to change derogatory place names across the country and a tease of the winter issue of Flathead Living Magazine.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSDecember 1 E-EditionMontana's General Hunting Season Wraps UpFlathead County Harbors Last Derogatory Place-Names in MontanaFrom Speed Queen to Head CoachBest of Preps Fall 2020UnderscoreThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Flathead Beacon has welcomed a new staff reporter, Mike Kordenbrock, who joins the newsroom after a seven-year stint with the Billings Gazette. Mike joins podcast host Micah Drew to chat about his start as a journalist, the transition from a daily to a weekly paper and what' he's excited about as a member of the Beacon newsroom.Later, Micah runs through the latest stories from the last week including the end of the football season, increased needs at local food banks and the vote that derailed a proposed development on Big Mountain Road.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSNovember 24 E-EditionHigh Holiday Demand at Flathead Valley Food BanksWhitefish Planning Board Votes Against Mountain Gateway DevelopmentVikings Fall in Title GameThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The fight over abortion access has been playing out in statehouses and courts across the country in recent months, including high profile cases such as a Texas law that bans abortions after six weeks while letting regular citizens carry out enforcement. Here in Montana, the Republican controlled legislature held its first session in 16 years without the threat of a Democratic governor's veto, and passed several laws restricting abortion access in the state. Beacon Staff Writer Maggie Dresser wrote about the battle over access in this week's cover story, and sat down with host Micah Drew to discuss her reporting. Later, Micah runs through the latest stories from the last week including record breaking visitation in Glacier National Park, updates on local COVID-19 cases, a controversial library book and the return of the Brawl of the Wild.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSNovember 17 E-EditionGlacier National Park Shatters Visitation Record for SeptemberFlathead County Reports Fewer COVID-19 Cases as Hospitalizations Remain HighPublic Library Receives Formal Complaints About Two BooksThe Brawl is BackThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“Stories are everywhere and we have two ears so I'm plugged into what's happening and helping people share their stories.” ~ Skye Lucas Every year the Flathead Beacon gets to work with a bright young student from the University of Pennsylvania, part of a program our owner, Maury Povich, began with his alma mater. This summer we were joined by the recently graduated Skye Lucas. Following her initial three months at the Beacon, Skye stayed on to work with us for the fall but will be leaving the newsroom at the end of this week. Skye joins the podcast to talk about her time in Montana, a few of her favorite stories to work on and what she thought of being a fully fledged reporter for the last few months.Later, host Micah Drew runs through the latest stories from the last week including the retirement of Glacier National Park's superintendent, the reopened Canadian border and the the Griz soccer team, which features two Flathead Valley locals on its roster, winning another conference title.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSNovember 10 E-EditionGlacier Park Superintendent Jeff Mow to RetireBorder Reopened to Vaccinated TravelersMontana Wins Big Sky Soccer TournamentThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

“It's just the game you know. It can be so cruel sometimes. It's a beautiful struggle and we love the game because it tests you on so many different levels. The game itself, the sport, the season, this journey teaches these kids so much about the things they'll be facing in life.” ~ Glacier soccer coach Ryan Billiet. Last weekend saw the culmination of yet another fall sports season as the state soccer championships played out across the state. The Class A and Class AA Boys both featured teams from the Flathead Valley. In Class A, the championship was a rematch of last year with Whitefish and Columbia Falls taking the field up in Whitefish and the Bulldogs coming out victorious. In the Double A final, the Glacier Wolfpack returned to the championships for the second time in program history to face two-time reigning champion Hellgate down in Missoula. That game played out over 99 minutes, taking two overtime periods before there was finally a break in the stellar defense and goalkeeping to give Hellgate a third straight title and send the Wolfpack home with a second place trophy.Glacier coach Ryan Billiet joins host Micah Drew to talk about the years of work that brought the Wolfpack to the state final, how the match played out and the graduating members of his team. Later, Micah runs through the latest stories from the last week including a report listing COVID-19 as the state's third leading cause of death, updates on Montana's redistricting commission and the upcoming tourism town hall.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSNovember 3 E-EditionGlacier Country Tourism to Host Town HallMontana Commission Delays Choosing Congressional DistrictsNew Report Lists COVID-19 as Third Leading Cause of Death in MontanaWhitefish Wins Record Fourth Straight Soccer ChampionshipWhitefish Municipal Election ResultsThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Northwest Montana is full of outdoor adventurers taking on all sorts of endeavors through the mountains in all seasons. Among the myriad of stories swapped over brews or coffee, some just happen to stand out, such as those told about alpinist Jason Robertson. Over the last 25 years, Jason has been quietly pursuing the most challenging routes up all 234 of Glacier National Park's listed summits, ascending many of them solo and in winter. Flathead Beacon managing editor Tristan Scott spent a day with Jason in the mountains last month and wrote about him and his feats for this week's cover story in the Beacon. Tristan sat down with host Micah Drew to talk about his day with Jason and share some of his tales among Montana's peaks. Later, Micah runs through the latest stories from the last week including a recent hearing over a controversial Whitefish development, proposed regulations on Flathead Lake's islands, petition attempting to recall the members of the Whitefish School District Board of Trustees, and some updates on prep sports. Coming up, be on the lookout for a bonus episode of the Flathead Beacon Podcast that will feature a farewell conversation with outgoing managing editor Myers Reece, who's last day at the Beacon was this week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSOctober 27 E-EditionEmotions Run High at Mountain Gateway Development HearingWith Recreation on the Rise, FWP Proposes New Rules on Flathead Lake IslandsPetitioners Attempt Recall of Whitefish School BoardKats Cruise to Cross Country ChampionshipsThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Halloween is looming at the end of the calendar month which means it's almost time for the 2021 election cycle. As an off- off year in elections, it's easy to overlook this year's vote without a presidential candidate, congressional candidates or state legislators on the ballot, but municipal races throughout the county will directly shape policies in Kalispell, Columbia Falls, Whitefish and the surrounding areas as the county continues to grow. Staff reporter Maggie Dresser joins the podcast to talk about the races for Kalispell city council and the mayors race. Coming up, be on the lookout for a bonus episode of the Flathead Beacon Podcast that will feature a farewell conversation with outgoing managing editor Myers Reece, who's last day at the Beacon was this week.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSFire Reported in Patrick Creek AreaThree Montana School Districts Go Virtual or Close Due to COVIDLongtime Blackfeet Chief, Cultural Steward, Dies at 92Columbia Falls Landowners Sue DEQ Over New SubdivisionLocal Runners Keen to Add to Flathead's Winning TraditionThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

This week the Flathead Beacon staff put together an issue dedicated to the arts, focusing on stories about artists, musicians and writers in the Flathead Valley. Host Micah Drew takes some time to run through several of the features of the issue before rounding up the latest stories from the last seven days including the vote on the Whitefish resort tax, the closure of Going-to-the-Sun Road and Kalispell's rules on marijuana dispensaries. Coming up, be on the lookout for a bonus episode of the Flathead Beacon Podcast that will feature a farewell conversation with outgoing managing editor Myers Reece, who's last day at the Beacon was this week. Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSOctober 13 E-EditionVoters to Decide Whitefish Resort Tax Renewal on Nov. 2Weather Closes Alpine Access to Glacier Park as Services Shutter for WinterKalispell Restricts Marijuana Operations to Industrial ZonesWhitefish Mountain Resort CEO Announces Upcoming RetirementAce Powell's Last Painting and Enduring LegacyThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Montana is home to a number of heritage apple orchards that have been producing fruit for decades, even going back to the early 1900s. Many of the oldest orchards are remnants of old homesteads when trees were planted for sustenance, while some go back to early commercial operations. The Kalispell orchard planted by Rod McIver is only 23 years old, but is the largest collection of fruit trees and apple varieties in the state. Rod started his home orchard project in 1997 to feed his love for gardening and the natural world and he operates it as part experiment, part commercial operation, with the dual purposes of searching for apple varieties that thrive in Montana's climate and selling trees to the public to offer the every day fruit consumer a wider variety of fresh options.Host Micah Drew spent hours at the orchard over the past weeks and McIver talked about his favorite fruits and some of the history of his project. Later, Micah runs through the biggest stories from the last seven days, including a new conservation project near Bigfork, updates on Flathead County's COVID-19 stats, the results from the state golf tournaments and more.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSOctober 6 E-EditionCOVID-19 Vaccines, Including Boosters, Offered Weekly at FairgroundsSwan Conservation Collaboration Yields New Trails, Wards Off Development7 Passengers on Derailed Train Sue Amtrak, BNSF RailwayArea Code Needed for Local Montana Calls Starting This MonthValley Golfers Wrap up Season at StateThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

At the end of each month, the Flathead Beacon runs a series of business pieces focusing on a different economic sector each month. For September, Flathead Beacon business reporter Maggie Dresser dove into the agricultural community in the Flathead Valley to examine how the selloff of farmland to developers is impacting the rural economy, as well as what the hot summer meant for crops in the area.Later, Micah runs through the biggest stories from the last seven days, including a proposed hotel in downtown Whitefish, updates on Libby's Superfund site, a recent Amtrak derailment and more.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSSeptember 29 E-EditionSelling the FarmPlanning Board Endorses Whitefish Hotel ProposalsGreat Fish Community Challenge Sets New Fundraising RecordEPA Deletes Portion of Superfund Site from National Priorities ListInvestigators Probe Deadly Amtrak Derailment in MontanaThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The Flathead Valley has been rocked by the deaths by suicide of two high school aged kids that were reported in the last two weeks. These marked the seventh and eighth deaths by suicide in the high school age group in the area in the last year and a half. Flathead Beacon assistant managing editor Tristan Scott joins host Micah Drew to talk about his coverage of the recent tragedies and how the community is working to enhance suicide prevention awareness. Later, Micah runs through the biggest stories from the last seven days, including the contract negotiations at Logan Health, the retirement of the Flathead County fairgrounds manager, and a wrap up of Glacier National Park's ticketed entry system.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSSeptember 22 E-EditionLogan Health Nurses Ratify First Union ContractFlathead County Fairgrounds Manager RetiresGlacier Reports Reservation System Helped Blunt Traffic Spikes on Sun Road The music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

It's once again time for another issue of Flathead Living to hit the stands. After a hectic week of compiling and editing the latest issue, magazine editor Myers Reece joins host Micah Drew to give an overview of the fall issue and highlight some of his favorite features readers can dig their teeth into this season. Later, Micah runs through the biggest stories from the last seven days, including a growing number of bear conflicts in the area, valley-wide bus driver shortages, and a plan to curtail aerial tours in Glacier National Park.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSSeptember 15 E-EditionA Fed BearSchool Districts Continue Scrambling for Bus DriversGlacier Park Unveils Plan to Phase Out Aerial Sightseeing ToursThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The 2021-22 school year has started and Flathead Valley public school districts have been solidifying their COVID-19 policies for months in preparation. By Federal law, students in all districts are required, whether vaccinated or not, to wear face coverings on public transportation, which includes school and activity buses. Beyond that, however, districts have some leeway to draft their own policies which has led to a patchwork of guidelines across the valley. All districts are encouraging, but not requiring COVID-19 vaccinations, as just over a quarter of children ages 12-17 in Flathead County had received at least one dose. Meanwhile, Kalispell Public Schools is moving forward with phase three of its COVID plan which strongly encourages face coverings but does not mandate them for any grade levels. KPS superintendent Micah Hill joined the podcast today to talk about his thoughts on the district's policy, how schools stayed open last year, and his level of optimism for this school year. Later, Micah runs through the biggest stories from the last seven days, including a body found in the Flathead River, upcoming memorial services for 9/11, and the historic win by the Griz last weekend.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSSeptember 8 E-EditionUnidentified Remains Found in Flathead River9/11 Remembrance Services to be Held in the FlatheadNo. 20 Washington Humbled by Stunning Loss to MontanaThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

While the attention of the sporting world has shifted to the fall football season and the start of a number of high school sports, some athletes are still reminiscing about and processing their experiences competing at the highest level of sport: the Olympic Games. Whitefish has an elite club of Olympic athletes that can be counted on a single hand. Nicole Heavirland competed for Team USA in Rugby Sevens, after going to the 2016 Rio Games as a reserve. Nicole joins to the podcast to talk about her experience in Tokyo, how she and her team handled an early exit from the tournament and what it means to have a supportive community in Montana. Later, Micah runs through the biggest stories from the last seven days, including the latest mussel-infested boat interception, a new Montana rule regarding mask wearing in public schools, more Flathead County deaths from COVID-19 and the the largest philanthropic donation in Montana state history.Read more about all of this week's stories and get the latest breaking news at flatheadbeacon.com and sign up for our new daily newsletter at flatheadbeacon.com/newsletter.RELATED LINKSSeptember 1 E-EditionMussel Fouled Boat Intercepted En Route to KalispellMontana Rule Urges Schools to Give Parents Say on MasksFlathead County Reports Nine Additional COVID-19 DeathsTexas Power Couple with Flathead Ties Gifts $101 Million to MSU Nursing ProgramThe music in this this episode is “Thinking Music” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.