Congressman Denny Rehberg rakes in the campaign cash. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate in the Flathead breaks another record.
HIGH
MISSOULA CITY COUNCIL – Adopting the first ordinance in the state that prevents discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, over the opposition of conservative protestors, this decision made headlines all over Montana.
DENNY REHBERG – This Republican Congressman has more than $731,000 in the bank for his reelection effort, far more than his closest opponent.
CONAN O’BRIEN – The late night comedy host, after getting bumped off NBC, signs a contract for a show on cable network TBS.
CATTAILS – An investigation found these plants, not human waste, were what was floating in Bigfork Bay. Breathe a deep sigh of relief.
BETWEEN
COUNTY PLANNING – The Flathead County Commission voted not to renew Planning Director Jeff Harris’ contract, citing a need to cut costs now that development is on the wane. But Harris’ tenure, beset by challenges and complaints at every turn, begs the question: Who in their right minds would ever want to fill his shoes?
LOW
UNEMPLOYMENT – The Flathead County jobless rate in March hit a staggering and record-breaking 13.8 percent.
TROY MINE – Following the disaster in West Virginia, this mine could face greater scrutiny from federal regulators.
GOLDMAN SACHS – The Securities and Exchange Commission announced a civil suit against this bank alleging it created and sold a mortgage investment designed to fail.
MICHAEL LOWEEN – This Kalispell insurance agent’s license has been suspended for owing more than $65,000 in back taxes.