Ellington

Flathead High School speech team wins state title - again

Flathead High School's speech and debate team continued its dynasty by winning the Class AA state tournament Saturday for the seventh time in eight years.

Flathead County Sheriff

An eavesdropping mother who heard her teenage daughters making plans thwarted a kegger on Swan River Road by alerting the Flathead County Sheriff's Office. Deputies went to the party site, got the names of the would-be revelers and called their parents. The parents then picked up their teens and took them home.

Raymond H. "Ray" Remp, 73

Raymond H. "Ray" Remp, 73, a native and resident of the Kootenai Valley, died Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2005, at Pahrump, Nev.

Inmate blamed for causing a stink at justice center

The Daily Inter Lake

Kalispell police

Criminal mischief reports kept Kalispell police busy. On Fifth Avenue West, a youth shot a BB gun at a neighbor, who told police he'd talk to the child's mother.

Swan Ecosystem Center offers winter class series

The Associated Press

Erma Leona Owings, 91

Erma Leona Owings, 91, of Hamilton, a longtime Bitterroot resident, died Saturday, Jan. 29, 2005.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police took a report of slamming doors on State Park Road that were disturbing the peace.

Columbia Falls police

Columbia Falls police are holding two people in the jail, including a 33-year-old man arrested on a contempt warrant by Columbia Falls police, and a 22-year-old woman arrested by Kalispell police on a Columbia Falls warrant.

Back on solid financial ground, Flathead Electric looks forward to future rate decrease

There was a time there, not too long ago, when employees thought twice before wearing the shirts in public.

Wesley W. Lynch, 52

Wesley W. Lynch, 52, passed away Thursday, Jan. 27, 2005,

Vicki Jo Lopez, 53

Vicki Jo Lopez, 53, passed away on Friday, Jan. 28, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Adelaide A. Fystrom, 95

Adelaide A. Fystrom, 95, died at Community Medical Center in Missoula on Thursday, Jan. 27, 2005.

Dissed and dismissed

This week gave us two examples of the sportsmanship and life lessons athletics is supposed to teach but so often gets lost in the avalanche of wins and losses and statistics and standings.

Addicted teen finds salvation

Krista Denning of Kalispell was 13 years old when she started using methamphetamine.

that included a tires-on tour of a sidewalk. He was pulled over and emerged from his vehicle, vomiting.

Kalispell police arrested a man for DUI and other charges after someone reported his bad driving,

Country station tops local radio ratings

Country radio station KDBR 106.3 FM, "The Bear," attracted the largest share of listeners in a survey conducted last fall by Eastlan Resources.

The mother of unfunded mandates

The Montana Constitution in Article X says, "The Legislature shall provide a basic system of free quality public elementary and secondary schools" and also that "It shall fund and distribute in an equitable manner to the school districts the state's share of the cost of the basic elementary and secondary school system."

Knutson gets 200th win

Teens in Crisis born of tragedy

One was to an assault on U.S. 2 East Friday night. A woman was injured when she fell from her chair and hit her head at Cattlemen's Friday.

Kalispell fire department had five calls.

Semitool revenues for first quarter up substantially

Spurred by new customers in Asia, Semitool Inc. this week reported revenue of $48.8 million for its fiscal first quarter, a substantial increase from $28.6 million in the same quarter last year.

where checks were stolen at a house that was mostly destroyed by fire recently.

Columbia Falls police went to a burglary on South Nucleus,

Lodge to open this summer

The Daily Inter Lake

Whitefish speech team wins state

It wasn't even close.

Braves demolish Helena, Capital

The Daily Inter Lake

Delivering mail to the remote North Fork area challenging

The Toyota pickup truck with a yellow light on top is a familiar and comforting sight for residents in the North Fork - the outside world is on its way.

when a bus hit a vehicle and then hit a guy wire. No one was hurt.

Whitefish police went to an accident near Mike's Conoco Saturday

How times have changed on the smoking scene

I was not immediately aware of the coincidence when the Inter Lake ran a front page feature last Monday about the difficulties of one longtime Flathead Valley smoker on the same day the story ran that talk-show host Johnny Carson died.

Richard F. "Dick" Schaller, 57

Richard F. "Dick" Schaller, 57, of Polson "went to be with his Savior" on Thursday morning, Jan. 27, 1947. He leaves behind his wife and son, Damon.

Gravel firm regrets action that led to zoning decision

It seems no one is happy with a recent zoning decision that eliminated Flathead County's ability to regulate most new gravel pits.

Gifts give a lift at state hospital

Over the holidays, many people wrote or called the Inter Lake to share their stories of acts of kindness. One letter shed light on a program that brings joy each year to the patients at the Montana State Hospital in Warm Springs.

glacier visits up 22 percent

The Daily Inter Lake

Man gets eight years for child porn

An Olney-area man will spend eight years and a month in federal prison on child pornography charges.

C-Falls rallies past Ronan in overtime

The Daily Inter Lake

Skiing still fine at Big Mountain

Big Mountain has snow and the skiing is fine.

A cell phone was stolen at Finnegan's.

A man objects to his ex-wife coming to his home and then accusing him of violating a restraining order.

FHS triumphs in foul fest

Six ties, 13 lead changes, a total of 59 fouls and 69 free throws.

Today

Lakeside and Somers Winterfest today. Activities in both communities and at Blacktail Mountain Ski area.

Alarms

Kalispell fire department had eight calls. One was to the junior high where someone was hit in the head with an elbow.

Ferda, Whitefish sink Libby in OT

The Daily Inter Lake

Whitefish police

Whitefish police made a transient pick up trash he reportedly spilled Friday.

Cross Currents Christian School turns 25

In the waning years of the 1970s, Donna Maddux was a bit uneasy about educational offerings in the Flathead Valley.

Flathead County Sheriff

Flathead County Sheriff's Office arrested a tenacious couple for trespassing. The pair had been evicted from a mobile home. The owner had shut off the water and power, and even moved the structure. But Thursday, smoke was visible coming from the chimney and the couple was found inside.

Columbia Falls police

Columbia Falls police found a 15-year-old boy who reportedly took his mother's car Thursday night. An officer took him to the police department, where he allegedly took a swing at an officer. He was arrested on multiple charges.

Winterfest kicks off

Head to Lakeside, Somers and Blacktail Mountain for Winterfest 2005. Activities will be offered all day long, beginning with a pancake breakfast from 7 to 10 a.m. at Lakeside Chapel. Try snow golf or sporting clays in town from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

William "Bill" Head

William "Bill" Head, also known as Vern to his family, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 27, 2005, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish. He had been ill with Parkinson's disease for several years. He was surrounded by family and friends during his last days.

David W. Boisseau M.D.

David W. Boisseau M.D., passed away at his home in Kalispell on Jan. 22, 2005, surrounded by his family.

Braves pin Polson, Hellgate

Defending state champion Flathead and Class A power Polson continued to round into form for the upcoming divisional tournaments next week and the state tournament the following week, squaring off in an entertaining dual on Thursday afternoon.

Assistant fire chief suspended

The Daily Inter Lake

Heeeeeeeeeere's (to you,) Johnny

Johnny Carson has been widely praised since his death Sunday from emphysema at the age of 79, and rightly so.

Proposal for new planning department unveiled

Kalispell City Manager Jim Patrick this week unveiled a proposal for a new planning department to replace the Tri-City Planning Office, which dissolves June 30.

Smith's steal helps 'Cats top Vikes

COLUMBIA FALLS - Guy Smith picked the right moment Thursday night to pick up his defense.

Eureka lumber mill closing

After years of battling the U.S. Forest Service, environmental groups and fierce international competition, Jim Hurst announced Thursday that Eureka's Owens & Hurst Lumber Co. will permanently close in May.

Tilting at the media

The Daily Inter Lake

Today

Red Cross blood drive noon to 5 p.m. today and Saturday in the blood mobile at the Wal-Mart parking lot.

Planning task force gets rolling

The Daily Inter Lake

Columbia Falls

A fight erupted at the garbage-box site near Columbia Falls Wednesday, when two men talked trash and tried to hit each other with sticks. Death threats were reportedly made.

Alarms

Kalispell fire department had 11 calls. One was to assist someone having a medical problem at Costco Thursday. West Valley fire department also responded when a child fell from bleachers at West Valley School. Evergreen fire department and highway patrol were also on the scene when a vehicle rolled onto its side on East Evergreen Drive.

Kalispell police

Kalispell police went to Third Avenue East when a woman was seen pounding on the windows of a vehicle Wednesday. She told officers she was trying to break into the vehicle, which she owns.

Burns, Rehberg vow to help Eureka recover

Sen. Conrad Burns, R-Mont., and Rep. Denny Rehberg, R-Mont., have pledged to help Eureka recover from the pending closure of the Owens & Hurst mill, the town's largest employer.

Josephine Marie (Knudson) Gregg, 91

Josephine Marie (Knudson) Gregg, 91, passed away Sunday, Jan. 23, 2005, in Great Falls.

Columbia Falls police

Columbia Falls police arrested a man for his second DUI. He was stopped on Eighth Street West Wednesday night.

Mildred Hansen Wells, 87

Mildred Hansen Wells, 87, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2005, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police arrested a man Thursday afternoon for disturbing the peace. He reportedly caused a ruckus at a Central Avenue business, even though he'd been warned before to behave.

Mikki Gene Wilcox, 27

Mikki Gene Wilcox, 27, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2005, at his home in Kalispell.

Loggers drop another ranked mat foe

The Daily Inter Lake

Eloise Emma Feasel, 86

Eloise Emma Feasel, 86, a resident of Immanuel Lutheran Home, "passed into the arms of Jesus" Monday, Jan. 24, 2005, in HealthCenter Northwest in Kalispell.

Alarms

Kalispell fire department went to six calls, including one to McDonald's on U.S. 2 west, where a man suffered a medical emergency Wednesday.

Hoffenbacker settles on Montana State

Brandon Hoffenbacker has made a verbal commitment to play football for Montana State, the Flathead High standout said Wednesday, spurning overtures from Montana, Oregon, Oregon State, Colorado, Colorado State and Wyoming in favor of MSU.

Asbestos bill still excluding Libby victims

The newest version of proposed federal legislation to compensate asbestos victims still excludes more than 90 percent of Libby asbestos patients.

Contractors need more oversight

Considering the stakes involved with building a new house, the lack of oversight in Montana for the home construction industry is stunning.

Logging projects put on hold due to muddy, thawing roads

Snowpacks in Northwest Montana and elsewhere in the state are nearing record low levels and the economic effects are starting to spread beyond ski resorts.

Hoffenbacker, FHS set for last home duals

The Daily Inter Lake

Flathead County Sheriff

An unlocked vehicle reads as "Help Yourself" to thieves and they did just that around the valley. Thefts reported to Flathead County Sheriff's Office included $1,500 worth of CDs stolen on South Cedar Drive, money and cigarettes removed from a vehicle on Birch Drive, and wallets that went to new owners from East Cottonwood Drive and Alberta Street.

Blue-collar Bravette

Junior post averaging 16.2 points and seven rebounds per game as Flathead gets off to 7-3 start

Whitefish police

Whitefish police went to Houston Point Drive Wednesday to help a hapless garbage-truck driver. He was reportedly trying to get up an icy hill on a private driveway when his truck slid sideways and then turned over on the passenger side. The vehicle reportedly came to rest on top of the home's electrical box, the phone box, and the cable box. It also damaged two trees and some decorations. Its final act of destruction was possible damage to the driveway when the truck was finally towed away.

Lucia J. Bojorques-Elgas, 67

Lucia J. Bojorques-Elgas of Riverton, Wyo., formerly of Kalispell, died Tuesday morning, Jan. 25, 2005, at Wind River Healthcare in Riverton. She was 67 years old.

College enrollment dips sharply

Flathead Valley Community College spring enrollment numbers show a sharp drop from the record spring 2004 semester.

Ownership change ahead for local Noon's stores

The Daily Inter Lake

Today

Heart of Whitefish sponsors a public meeting at 9 a.m. at the O'Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish to discuss the downtown master plan.

Alan Keyes to speak in Kalispell

Alan Keyes will deliver his pro-life and pro-family message to a Kalispell audience on Feb. 18.

Lakeside artist teaches painting to national TV audience

Painter Gary Spetz moved to Lakeside three years ago, in part because the Northwest Montana landscape offers a lifetime of artistic inspiration.

Kalispell police

Kalispell police took reports of a CD player taken from one vehicle and cologne and baby ring taken from another on Airport Road. An organizer containing cash and other items was taken from a vehicle at EQ Muffler shop.

Mary Ann Ness, 82

Mary Ann Ness, 82, passed away Sunday, Jan. 23, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Martha Elizabeth Hall, 95

Martha Elizabeth Hall, 95, died peacefully at Brendan House Friday, Jan. 21, 2005, of natural causes.

Columbia Falls family needs help after fire

The Daily Inter Lake

County jobless rate stays low

Strong employment in the second half of 2004 helped Flathead County's annual unemployment rate stay at 6 percent or less for the fifth consecutive year.

Today

Children's Story Hour at 10:30 a.m., Children's Department of the Flathead County Library in Kalispell, 247 First Ave. E. Call Youth Services Librarian Michael Hutchinson at 758-5822.

Kalispell police

Kalispell police took a call from a parent who said her daughter's former partner has been calling at all hours. Before Christmas, he crawled into the house though the doggy door while her daughter was in the shower, she said. The problem may resolve itself because the man is rumored to have moved away in the past few days.

Sewer project targeted for 2007

Kalispell is planning an $11.3 million expansion of its wastewater treatment plant - a project that calls for better odor control and increasing the plant's capacity.

Flathead County Sheriff

Flathead County Sheriff's Office took a call from a construction foreman about a man sleeping in a house that is under construction in Tiebucker Subdivision. The man turned out to be the soon-to-be-owner of the home. He'll find another place to stay until the house is his.

Kalispell native nominated for Oscar

Dorothy 'Dottie' Eleanor (Dorst) Stewart, 94

Dorothy "Dottie" Eleanor (Dorst) Stewart, 94, passed away Saturday, Jan. 1, 2005, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Downtown plan to be unveiled Monday

The Daily Inter Lake

Montana contractors aren't licensed

Allegations that a local contractor scammed customers have raised questions about how consumers in the fast-growing Flathead can protect themselves.

Vals use quick start to sink 'Kats

The Daily Inter Lake

Marion gunman was intoxicated

A Marion man who was shot and killed by a sheriff's deputy Saturday had an extremely high amount of alcohol in his system.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police took a call about excessive noise coming from an apartment on Colorado Avenue. Officers found an elderly woman there had fallen and she went by ambulance to the hospital.

Alarms

Kalispell fire department had seven calls. One was to a Main Street restaurant where a customer fell, possibly having a medical crisis Tuesday.

Lions fall to Loggers

EUREKA - Much closer this time.

FVCC OKs fire station timetable

Flathead Valley Community College trustees approved a timetable Monday to make a decision about a fire station on campus on Feb. 28.

Open-container bill makes sense

Here we are again.

Verda E. Wilson, 94

Verda E. Wilson, 94, "embarked on her heavenly journey" on Jan. 17, 2005. Verda was born on Dec. 7, 1910, in Memphis, Neb. When she was a young girl her family moved to Wyoming.

Donna C. Parrot, 82

Donna C. Parrot, widow and beloved mother of five children, died Saturday, Jan. 15, 2005, in Walnut Creek, Calif., after a short bout with cancer. Mrs. Parrott, a six-year resident of the Rossmoor Community in California, was 82 years old. She was born and raised in Grand Junction, Colo.

Kenneth Kirk 'Ken' Freeman, 72

Kenneth Kirk "Ken" Freeman, 72, passed away on Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. Ken was born on Aug. 2, 1932, in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, to Tevis and Alleen Kirk Freeman.

Flathead County Sheriff

Flathead County Sheriff's Office took a call from a Martin City woman who was skeptical about a man who claimed to be from her bank. She didn't fall for it when he called her Monday to say he needed to put money in her account that had been taken out by mistake, and he needed her account number to do it. When she refused to give it to him, he swore at her and told her he was going to close her account and sue her.

Columbia Falls police

Columbia Falls police took a report of a window that was smashed and a stereo that was stolen from a vehicle that was repossessed and taken to Glacier Bank.

Kalispell police

Kalispell police took calls from three people who were concerned about a woman seen stumbling, falling and crawling on Main Street Sunday night. She must have reached her destination, because officers couldn't locate her.

Alarms

Kalispell fire department had 13 calls. Lakeside Quick Response Unit, highway patrol and Somers fire department assisted at a vehicle accident on U.S. 93 in Lakeside which put a full-size pickup on its side. One person went to the hospital in a private vehicle Monday. Later, the same agencies went to U.S. 93 near the White Oak store for another accident. A 50-year-old woman went to the hospital.

Whitefish downtown plan needs public input

Whitefish's effort to create a downtown master plan reaches a pivotal point Thursday when consultants glean ideas from the public about what the city core should look like.

Tuesday

AARP two-day driver safety course for ages 50 and older, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. today and Jan. 26, North Valley Hospital, Whitefish. Cost is $10. Call 863-3630 to register.

Cha-ching! Grizzlies get $450,000 pay day

Money talks in college football, and the Oregon Ducks are speaking the Montana Grizzlies' language.

Vets entry improvement planned

With a little help from the community, officials at the Montana State Veterans Home in Columbia Falls plan to renovate the home's entry as the final step in "Lighting a Soldier's Way Home."

Couple charged in alleged fraud

A Kalispell couple turned themselves in to authorities Monday on charges that they committed fraud in their construction business.

Trustees move bond sale forward

Flathead Valley Community College's board of trustees unanimously approved on Monday the sale of $9.9 million in bonds to expand and upgrade the Kalispell campus.

Whitefish, county agree on planning boundaries

An agreement that shapes new planning boundaries for Whitefish was approved by the county commissioners Monday, ending more than three years of negotiations.

Darlene Ruth Morrison, 54

Darlene Ruth Morrison, 54, died Saturday, Jan. 1, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. She was born Sept. 9, 1950, in Whitefish, to Jay "Shorty" and Alice Leona (St. Germain) Gould. She was raised in Warden, Wash., where she graduated in 1968.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police took a report from a woman who was walking along Third Street East on Monday when a man in a car yelled that she was wearing his sweatshirt and he wanted it back. When he circled the block and came at her again, still yelling about his sweatshirt, the woman took off hers and threw it at him, and then ran away in fear.

Police: Deputy's shooting was justified

Preliminary findings lead investigators to believe a deputy's shooting of an armed man in Marion on Saturday was justified.

Marion shooter shot-correction

A 56-year-old Marion man was starting to point a hand gun in the direction of law officers when a Flathead County sheriff's deputy shot and killed him Saturday afternoon, an official said.

Columbia Falls police

Columbia Falls police arrested a 17-year-old boy for family member assault on Grace Road Saturday night.

Alarms

Kalispell fire department and ambulance had 13 calls. The fire was out at the Elks hall when they got there, but there was a lot of smoke in the building. An older woman who fell at Herberger's Sunday morning went to the hospital by ambulance.

Price uses illness to snuff smoking

Ray Price spends every hour of every day harnessed by plastic tubes to an oxygen bottle.

Mary G. Schmidt, 69

Mary G. Schmidt, 69, passed away Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police handled a minor misunderstanding at North Valley Hospital, where parties tried to determine whether a female needed to see a doctor.

Kalispell police

Kalispell police discovered a beer-bottle-throwing incident and fight at Scotty's bar "was a family affair. When all parties sober up in the morning they may want to press charges." They'd let police know if they did.

Ruth B. Becklund, 93

Ruth B. Becklund, 93, passed away on Jan. 21, 2005, of natural causes. She was born March 28, 1911, in Bisbee, Ariz.

Flathead County sheriff

Flathead County sheriff's deputies took a woman into custody after a man called early Sunday, saying she had hit him and cut his face. He wanted her out of the house. Both had been drinking, and guns were at hand.

Mr. Avalanche: Stan Bones has been monitoring snow conditions since 1983

Stan Bones loves to talk about hoarfrost, crystal consolidation and slab fractures.

Whitefish debate team repeats as divisional champions

Whitefish High School's speech and debate team won the Western Division title hands-down Saturday, walking away from the state-qualifying meet with a 130-53 win over Columbia Falls.

Carl E. "Bud" Karnes, 79

Carl E. "Bud" Karnes, 79, of Columbia Falls, passed away at the Montana Veteran's Home on Jan. 17, 2005.

Taking the hassle out of eBay

So you've got an item you want to sell on eBay. You could take the time to photograph it, research the going price, set up the auction online and field questions from bidders.

Valley experiences another remarkable year in development

The pace of development reached epic proportions in Flathead County in 2004, with all-time records being set or approached in a host of fundamental growth categories.

Kalispell ranks high as a small business market

The Daily Inter Lake

Climate change needed in Helena

Gov. Brian Schweitzer came into office saying he was not just another liberal Democrat, and he aimed to prove it Wednesday night when he delivered his first State of the State address to a joint session of the Legislature.

City still hopes for college fire-station site

A potential sale of land to the city of Kalispell for a new fire station will come before Flathead Valley Community College's board at its Monday afternoon meeting.

A pack rat's promise: It's in a box, somewhere

January always seems like such a good month to take inventory of one's material belongings, pare down the superfluous stuff.

Jack Herbold, 66

Jack Herbold passed away on Monday, Jan. 17, 2005, at the Cookeville Regional Medical Center in Cookeville, Tenn., as a result of pulmonary fibrosis

Bravettes win swim invitational

The Daily Inter Lake

Planning rules have foresters puzzled

Forest planners across the country, including those on the Flathead and Kootenai national forests, are scratching their heads over new regulations for developing long-term strategic forest plans.

A grave rebuke

This week's top 10:

Snowballs also triggered calls to Flathead County Sheriff's dispatch. A complaint was made about snowballs zinging cars on North Mission Drive. The mother at the residence said she would intervene.

Flathead County Sheriff

A fracas erupted on Liberty Street just after midnight. A male and female were fighting. Kalispell police officers intervened and separated the combatants who were intoxicated.

Kalispell Police

Gunman shot by deputy at Marion

A 56-year old Marion man was shot by a Flathead County deputy Saturday at the scene of a domestic dispute.

Snowmobile patrols get tougher

Flathead National Forest is beefing up its monitoring and enforcement efforts against snowmobile trespass in wilderness and other areas closed to motorized use.

All quiet on the West Glacier front

Cleo Mildred Fehlberg Barrie, 89

Cleo Mildred Fehlberg Barrie, 89, died Jan. 22, 2005.

Dr. Jonathon V. Wright will speak about bio-identical hormone replacement therapy and nutritional medicine, 2 p.m. Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish. Free and the public is invited.

Today

Columbia Falls police arrested a 15-year-old boy behind the Town Pump. He was charged with alcohol possession and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Columbia Falls Police

Polson wrestlers down Whitefish, C-Falls

The Daily Inter Lake

Jack Hood, 69

Jack Hood passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 18, 2005, from a heart attack in Midvale, Utah.

Helen Marie Conrad, 95

Helen Marie Conrad, 95, passed away Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Mary G. Schmidt, 69

Mary G. Schmidt, 69, passed away Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Arrest made in sexual assault

Kalispell police Friday arrested a man in connection with a brazen sexual assault at Kalispell Center mall on Jan. 6.

Maureen Boyle returns to coach Carroll volleyball

Maureen Boyle is coming home.

Alarms

Kalispell Fire Department had nine calls. One was to a vehicle accident on U.S., where no one was seriously hurt. The crew was called to check out a strange odor at Ashley Square Mall Friday. Highway patrol and West Valley fire department also went to an accident in front of Majestic Valley Arena.

Tsunami show raises $10,500

Mountains of money can be moved with a generous community and a big push from a few motivated local citizens.

The Crew Salon and Spa in Bigfork is holding a benefit today for Locks of Love, the organization that makes wigs for children who have lost their hair due to illness or medical treatment.

Locks of Love benefit today in Bigfork

Kalispell police

Kalispell police took a report from a woman who said a man assaulted her daughter at the mall two weeks ago and is now following her.

Men recorded vandalism spree

Two Kalispell men who rampaged through Kalispell neighborhoods destroying property at Christmas videotaped their crimes and their laughter, according to Kalispell police.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police arrested a man for partner assault on Spokane Avenue on Thursday night.

Flathead County Sheriff

Flathead County Sheriff's Office jailed a man on a half-dozen charges after a traffic stop at about 1:30 a.m. Friday. Deputies stopped Anthony Dorsey, 39, on Montana 206 and U.S. 2 and learned there was a warrant for him from Columbia Falls. According to the sheriff's report, Dorsey was placed in a Columbia Falls police patrol car and he kicked out a window. He was transferred to a deputy's car and he continued kicking. When he was taken out so officers could secure his feet, he slipped and fell. He said his back was broken in the fall. A deputy took him to the hospital, where doctors found that his back was not broken, so he went to jail. He's charged with two counts of criminal mischief, two counts of resisting arrest, theft and disorderly conduct.

Braves pounce on Bulldogs early

Helen Marie Conrad, 95, passed away Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Helen Marie Conrad, 95

College nears next step toward expansion

The Daily Inter Lake

Mary G. Schmidt, 69, passed away Thursday, Jan. 20, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Mary G. Schmidt, 69

Flathead County Parks and Recreation and Flathead Valley Softball Association 10th annual Blizzard Bowl, at Conrad Complex, Kalispell. Call 758-5800.

Today

Loggers close out Vikes

BIGFORK - With first place in the Northwestern A conference on the line Friday night, defending state champion Libby came out and made a statement early.

Columbia Falls police

Columbia Falls police arrested a 17-year-old boy for possession of alcohol at the high school Thursday night.

Kalispell police

Kalispell police arrested a 13-year-old and a 15-year-old boy for criminal mischief after they shot out a light on Whitefish Stage Road Wednesday night.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police arrested a man on two counts of contempt Thursday when he caused a commotion in city court, where he was on trial for DUI.

Bravettes trip Wildkats, again

Hashley tallies 16 points in 55-39 victory

Dance to the sounds of The Taildraggers

Legendary band Too Slim & The Taildraggers bring a unique mix of blues, roots rock, rockabilly and surf music to the Eagles in Kalispell on Jan. 28 at 9 p.m.

Flathead County Sheriff

Rural road rage was reported to Flathead County Sheriff's Office. A driver near the Blue Moon said another driver cut him off and then passed in the center turn lane, spewing rocks. Both drivers wound up at a convenience store, where one driver pounded on another's window. Both sides went to the Columbia Falls Police Department for mediation.

C-Falls sweeps Flathead

Perry paces Wildcats with 24 points

Today

WINGS ninth annual fund-raiser radiothon continues today until 6 p.m. at Sportsman and Ski Haus, Kalispell.

Man gets to keep money found in road

The contents of Kalispell's most valuable shoes were released recently to an alert driver.

Alarms

Kalispell fire department had 11 calls. One was to River Place Wednesday evening when a man was found lying in the road. A sparking fuse box drew firefighters to North Main Street. West Valley Fire department checked out a burning smell on Lost Creek.

Account opened for victim of domestic violence

A bank account was opened Thursday for a woman whose story of domestic abuse moved people who heard about her plight.

Columbia Falls police

Columbia Falls police went to the high school, where two girls fought Thursday.

Resource policy sent back to committee

Flathead County commissioners postponed the adoption of a proposed Natural Resource Policy on Thursday, preferring to send it back to committee for further refinement.

Bush address: a vision for today

President Bush jumped into his second term the day after his election, but he set the tone for it, and provided his vision for it, on Thursday as he was sworn in and pledged himself and our nation to the service of freedom.

Nicholas Sean "Nick" Porter, 23

Nicholas Sean "Nick" Porter, 23, of Missoula, a student at the University of Montana, died Monday from injuries suffered in a fall on the university campus.

'Last Saturday at the Knead' features musical talents of Andre Floyd, David Griffith

Renowned blues guitarist Andre Floyd and longtime Flathead Valley musician David Griffith are combining their talents for a performance Saturday, Jan. 29, at the Knead Cafe in Kalispell.

Easy does it for FHS matmen

Methodically, without flash or flare, the Flathead Braves wrestling team first went into Whitefish and then Columbia Falls on Thursday night and returned home with easy dual meet wins.

Helena Flats subdivision earns unanimous vote

Despite pleas from neighbors to reduce the density, the Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday night unanimously recommended approval of an 82-lot subdivision on Helena Flats Road.

Dixieland band at the Christian Center

The Flathead Valley Concerts Association offerings return on Jan. 28 at the Christian Center in Kalispell with Southern Fried Jazz, an eight-member Dixieland band that offers a refreshing take on Dixieland music.

Chase Dean Snook

Chase Dean Snook son of Curtis Snook and Robyn Fox of Coram, was born Jan. 15 at North Valley Hospital.He weighed 10 pounds, 1 ounce and was 19 inches long.

Mason Kent Dall

Mason Kent Dall son of Justin and Danielle Dall of Kalispell, was born Nov. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Kyrah Davis

Kyrah DavisShe weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 3/4 inches long.

Katie Marie Hummel

Katie Marie Hummel daughter of Lilly and Mark Hummel of Bigfork, was born Jan. 13 at North Valley Hospital.She weighed 7.01 pounds.

Edward Clarence Fuller, 84

Edward Clarence Fuller, 84, passed away Monday, Jan. 17, 2005, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell.

Ian Joseph Finley

Ian Joseph Finley son of Sherm and Lynnell Finley of Whitefish, was born Jan. 13 at North Valley Hospital.He weighed 8 pounds, 11.4 ounces and was 21 inches long.

Ashton Harvey Dumontier

Ashton Harvey Dumontier son of Curtis and Lacey Dumontier of Whitefish, was born Jan. 13 at North Valley Hospital.He weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Kalispell fire department had five calls.

Kalispell fire department

Births

Mason Kent Dall, son of Justin and Danielle Dall of Kalispell, was born Nov. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Today

WINGS ninth annual fund-raiser radiothon today at 6 a.m. through 6 p.m. Jan. 21, Sportsman and Ski Haus, Kalispell. Call 257-WING to make a pledge.

Man sentenced for attacking wife, investigated for murder conspiracy

Patrol's hiring needs are concern for all

It has been commonly accepted for several years that the Highway Patrol is understaffed. Currently, only 206 officers patrol Montana's thousands of miles of highway, and when you figure that those 206 officers have other duties as well, and also take days off like the rest of us, then you have many fewer who are actually on the road at any given time.

Columbia Falls police arrested two boys at the high school Wednesday for fighting. One was charged with disorderly conduct and the other was charged with assault.

Columbia Falls police

Fee increase not necessarily all negative

Increasing hunting and fishing license fees will surely be one of the most hotly debated items during the current legislative session. Montana's Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks has proposed very substantial increases in virtually every license issued to Montana residents.

Whitefish police took a report of items stolen from a purse at a bar on Central Avenue.

Whitefish police

Master gardener course to be offered beginning Jan. 31

The MSU/Flathead County Extension Office is offering a nine-week master gardener course in Kalispell beginning Jan. 31.

Flathead County Sheriff's Office took a report of a freezer broken into at a Marion business where all the sandwiches were taken. This is the second time it's happened.

Flathead County Sheriff

County ready to evaluate growth policy consultants

The Daily Inter Lake

FHS AA frosh girls move to 10-0 on basketball season

The Daily Inter Lake

Robert H. 'Bob' Shennum, 82

Robert H. "Bob" Shennum, 82, died on Monday, Jan. 17, 2005, in Bigfork.

Hearing to be held on Natural Resource Policy

The Daily Inter Lake

Passenger activity, air traffic climb to new heights at Glacier Park International

Double-digit growth during the spring and fall shoulder seasons helped Glacier Park International Airport set another record for passenger activity in 2004.

KATS finally back in the water

The Kalispell Aquatic Team Swimmers (KATS) season stretches from the beginning of October until the state meet the end of February.

Alice G. Buck, 85

Alice G. Buck, 85, passed away on Monday, Jan. 17, 2005, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Local business leaders bullish on Flathead economy

How good is the local economy?

George St. Sauver Jr., 84

George St. Sauver Jr., former detective for the St. Paul Police Dept. in St. Paul, Minn. died on Jan. 17, 2005. He was 84.

Cecile H. DuBeau, 91

Cecile H. DuBeau was born in Wibaux, on May 3, 1913, to Eddie and Hazel Hutchins. She died in Billings on Jan. 17, 2005, at the age of 91.

Michael Hugh Patrick DeVaan, 50

Michael Hugh Patrick DeVaan, 50, passed away on Jan. 16, 2005, in Kalispell, after a long illness.

Ray Bakker, 73

Ray Bakker, 73, a resident of Kalispell passed away quietly in his sleep Jan. 13, 2005, in Lewistown.

Kalispell police told a panhandler to move on after he scared kids at Trinity Lutheran Church.

Kalispell police

Columbia Falls police helped three drivers who were stuck on snow berms or in deep snow.

Columbia Falls police

Whitefish police are investigating a theft of gems and rocks from a display case at Don K Chevrolet.

Whitefish police

Kalispell fire department had seven calls. Three were for falls.

Kalispell fire department

Governor's speech on radio, television

Gov. Brian Schweitzer's State of the State address will be broadcast live by Montana Public Radio and Montana PBS at 7 p.m. today.

School canceled due to 'absolutely treacherous' roads

Freezing rain made for plenty of happy students but some put-out parents when school was called off Tuesday morning.

Bravettes pull away from Lady Bulldogs

WHITEFISH - About five minutes.

Wings effort takes to the airwaves

The Daily Inter Lake

Frigid rainfall creates havoc across valley

The Daily Inter Lake

Legislation addresses border issues

The Daily Inter Lake

Temperature change helps raise avalanche danger

"Travel in avalanche terrain is not recommended."

Today

Third Annual Flathead Valley Economic Outlook event 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., WestCoast Kalispell Center Hotel. Continental breakfast available at 7 a.m. Sponsored by Jobs Now Inc. and area Chambers of Commerce. Guest speakers include Greg Davis of Flathead Valley Community College; Jim Kelley, real estate appraiser; and Dennis Beams of Glacier Bank. RSVP to

Workshop aims to connect nonprofits

An event scheduled Feb. 3 brings leaders of nonprofit organizations together for a workshop and opportunity to network.

Guidelines, plus a judge's discretion

Federal judges were emancipated last week when the Supreme Court ruled that the sentencing guidelines passed by Congress in the mid-1980s are unconstitutional.

Major Helena Flats subdivision proposed

The Daily Inter Lake

Polson rolls by Mission

The Daily Inter Lake

Lakeside Reading Buddies need help

The Lakeside Reading Buddy program needs volunteers.

Orville S. Solberg, 77

Orville S. Solberg, 77, "went home to be with Jesus," Thursday, Jan. 13, 2005, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Yuma, Ariz.

Columbia Falls police took a report of a purse stolen from a vehicle at Super 1 Sunday.

Columbia Falls police

Missing contractor under investigation

'Everybody is very angry"

Kalispell police

Kalispell police took a report of an assault on Fifth Avenue West, but neither side wanted to press charges.

Survey says

Local wage survey results to highlight economic forum

Tuesday

Brunch is offered the public at 9:30 a.m., Back Room of the Nite Owl Cafe, U.S. 2 East, Columbia Falls. Cost is $7 per person. Special guest Vi Carlson shows her hat collection. Guest speaker is Becky Hamilton on the topic, "Life as a Puppet. Who's Pulling Your Strings?" Free child care by reservation. Call Bobby Kay at 387-5316, or Sherry at 892-5990. Sponsored by the Columbia Falls Women's Connection and Stonecroft Ministries.

Surveyors ding commissioners for subdivision decisions

The Flathead County commissioners got an earful last week from several local surveyors who are upset by recent decisions related to major and minor subdivisions.

Whitefish school to celebrete 25th anniversay

The Daily Inter Lake

Schmitt still rolling strong at 91

Jack Schmitt's 91st birthday Thursday didn't keep him from making his appointed rounds for Flathead County's Meals on Wheels program.

Dennis 'Don' Lambie, 68

Dennis "Don" Lambie, 68, passed away on Friday, Jan. 14, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. He was born on May 3, 1936, at Wahpeton, N.D., of the Oglala-Sioux Indian nation, the son of William and Catherine (Konkle) Lambie. He was educated in Kent, Wash., and graduated from Kent High School in 1954.

CF city attorney arrested

The Daily Inter Lake

Kalispell fire department had nine calls. One was to East Center Street, where an overheated car battery produced smoke.

Alarms

Whitefish police took a call about people in an apartment that should be empty. Officers found no one inside the apartment, but the door was unlocked, so they secured it.

Whitefish police

Hilma I. Waugh, 95

Hilma I. Waugh, 95, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2005, at Riverside Health Care Center in Missoula of natural causes.

Floodplain violation threatens insurance sales

Latest effort delights Bravettes

Alarms

Columbia Falls fire department responded to a fire in a wall on U.S. 2 West.

Flathead wrestlers finish 2nd to U-High

The Daily Inter Lake

A break from the ordinary

So much of sports is riveted in routine that when something delightfully out of the ordinary comes along it is that much sweeter.

Flathead County Sheriff

Flathead County Sheriff's Office sent a deputy to Whalebone Drive Saturday evening after someone reported a person yelling for help who sounded "like an adult in distress." The officer checked the area and found no one.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police arrested a 34-year-old Utah man for his fifth DUI during a traffic stop early Sunday morning.

Filler's long and winding road leads to pictures

David Filler is a master storyteller, but it's photographs, not prose that allow him to capture the snippets of people's lives.

Columbia Falls Police

About the same time of night, Columbia Falls police arrested a 42-year-old man for DUI on Meadow Lake Boulevard.

'It's an entertainment thing'

Central Station features an array of options

Kalispell Police

Kalispell Police took a call Saturday evening from a shopper who reported that while he was checking out at a supermarket, the bagger sneezed on a bag of his groceries. The man, who has pneumonia and an impaired immune system, told police he's afraid he may get a cold because of the sneezing bagger. The shift manager replaced all the items that were sneezed on, but was unable to replace a box of frozen potatoes because it was the only box of that kind left in the store.

A Rather peculiar mess at CBS

Mistakes happen.

Treysen Gage Trevino

Treysen Gage Trevino son of Ashley Lyman and Rene Trevino of Columbia Falls, was born Jan. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce and was 22 1/2 inches long.

Elle Jean Jesmore

Elle Jean Jesmore daughter of Burt and Jennifer Jesmore of Columbia Falls, was born Jan. 7 at North Valley Hospital.She weighed 6 pounds, 14 ounces and was 18 1/2 inches long.

Clare Rosemary Stewart

Clare Rosemary Stewart daughter of Mary and Christopher Stewart of Eureka, was born Dec. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds and was 19 inches long.

Madelaine Kinnerly Jellison

Madelaine Kinnerly Jellison daughter of Bob and Rhonda Jellison of Bigfork, was born Dec. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 8 pounds, 15 ounces and was 19 3/4 inches long.

Levi Paul Martino

Levi Paul Martino son of Libbi and Paul Martino of Kalispell, was born Jan. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and was 21 1/2 inches long.

Mykaelah Marie Miller

Mykaelah Marie Miller daughter of Megan Bulik and Ryan Miller of Kalispell, was born Dec. 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 3 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Jazmyn Celeste Taylor

Jazmyn Celeste Taylor daughter of Travis and Mary Taylor of Whitefish, was born Jan. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds, 1/2 ounce and was 20 inches long.

Harrison Michael Sanders

Harrison Michael Sanders son of Jerome and Kristi Sanders of Lakeside, was born Dec. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Kyler Logan McPherson

Kyler Logan McPherson son of Mindy Hartigan and Chris McPherson of Kalispell, was born Dec. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Rebecca Lynne Wilson

Rebecca Lynne Wilson daughter of Joshua and Elisabeth Wilson of Kalispell, was born Jan. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Hailey Paige Crump

Hailey Paige Crump daughter of Matt and Heidi Crump of Bigfork, was born Dec. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Blaine Gordan Gilmond

Blaine Gordan Gilmond son of Darin and Greta Gilmond of Kalispell, was born Dec. 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces.

Kyran Davis

Kyran DavisShe weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 3/4 inches long.

Thomas Joseph Hayek

Thomas Joseph Hayek son of Doug and Melanie Hayek of Somers, was born Dec. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds and was 19 3/4 inches long.

Kaia-Lee Mower

Kaia-Lee MowerShe weighed 6 pounds, 1 ounce and was 18 1/2 inches long.

Riley James Fritz

Riley James Fritz son of Matthew Fritz and Amy Schroth of Kalispell, was born Dec. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces and was 21 inches long.

Ellen K. Tschache, 87

Ellen K. Tschache, 87, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005, at Spring Meadows Assisted Living where she enjoyed her final four months of life under the additional care of Bozeman Deaconess Hospice.

Cody Lyle Norman

Cody Lyle Norman son of Nathan and Jacque Norman of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long.

MacKinzie Rajon Mills

MacKinzie Rajon Mills daughter of Eric and Ellen Mills of Libby, was born Dec. 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds, 1 1/2 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Taylor Renee Brandewie

Taylor Renee Brandewie daughter of Bill and Renee Brandewie of Bigfork, was born Dec. 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds, 10 1/2 ounces and was 21 inches long.

William Preston Schomp

William Preston Schomp son of Bill and Bonnie Schomp of Kila, was born Dec. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 8 pounds, 13 ounces and was 22 inches long.

Sylvia Adeline Stern

Sylvia Adeline Stern daughter of Jeremy and Ashley Stern of Kalispell, was born Nov. 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 8 pounds, 7 ounces and was 21 inches long.

Crail-Carr winners announced

The Daily Inter Lake

Columbia Falls investigated criminal mischief at the high school Friday. An unknown person let the air out of the tires of several vehicles.

Columbia Falls

Kalispell Fire and Ambulance responded to three calls for assistance on Friday.

Kalispell Fire and Ambulance

Parents give rescue job high marks

Jim and Lori Sturgeon of Fergus Falls, Minn., picked up their phone on Jan. 3 and found themselves in the middle of what they said was their worst nightmare. They were told that their 22 year-old son was reported missing while skiing on Big Mountain.

Flathead poets, essayists make a national mark

The creative writing talents of Flathead High School students are gaining respect across the nation.

Dasen trial postponed until April

The Daily Inter Lake

Whitefish police investigated a report of a person missing from Mountain View Manor. The person was located.

Whitefish police

Cold snap should break by Sunday

The Daily Inter Lake

Burglary spree stopped?

An alert patrolman and a few tips from the public may have helped solve a string of burglaries from Big Mountain to Kalispell over the past month.

Births

Peyton Elizabeth, Jackson David and Robert Brandon Walker, triplets of D.J. and Candi Walker of Kalispell, were born Sept. 23 in Missoula.

North Valley Hospital spruces up

Brandy Burkowski found a lighter, brighter obstetrics department when she came to North Valley Hospital to give birth Wednesday.

The community is invited to welcome to the crowning of the 46th King Ullr and Queen of the Snows for the Whitefish Winter Carnival at 6 p.m. today at the Whitefish train depot.

King Ullr, Queen of Snows to be crowned

Today

No-Limit Texas Hold 'Em Game to benefit Montana Hope Project and Kalispell Exchange Club, 9 a.m., WestCoast Outlaw Hotel. Registration 8:30-10:30 a.m. $100 buy-in, or pre-register by calling 752-2000.

Tour outlines proposed uses in Two Rivers area

Five members of the Flathead County Planning Board took advantage of a gorgeous afternoon on Friday to tour the largest landowner-proposed growth policy amendment in the valley's history.

Evan Bjorn Andersen

Evan Bjorn Andersen son of Jacob and Elizabeth Andersen of Kalispell, was born Dec. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 6 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Rowdy Easton Gove

Rowdy Easton Gove, son of Gary and Katie Gove of Silverdale, Wash., was born Dec. 20 at Madigan Army Center.

Jacob Walter Helgeson

Jacob Walter Helgeson son of Tammy and Terry Helgeson of Whitefish, was born Dec. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 9 pounds and was 22 1/2 inches long.

Emily Hannah Adkins

Emily Hannah Adkins daughter of Jennifer and James Adkins of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Bailey Brook-Lynn Leineweber, infant

Bailey Brook-Lynn Leineweber died at birth, Jan. 9, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center as a result of labor complications.

Robert Patrick Hilt, 58

A funeral mass will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 17, 2005, at St. John's Catholic Church in Fairfield for Robert Patrick Hilt, 58, of Fairfield, who died Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005, at his home in Fairfield from complications of diabetes. A vigil service will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 16, at St. John's Catholic Church in Fairfield. Interment will be in the Sunset Hills Cemetery in Fairfield under the direction of Gorder Funeral Home of Choteau.

Katauna Maree Kitzmiller

Katauna Maree Kitzmiller daughter of Andi Kitzmiller and Michelle Quilling of Kalispell, was born Dec. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 3 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Whitefish police were occupied with snow issues Thursday as they prepared for plowing this morning and warned people to move their cars.

Whitefish police

Knights rout Braves

Charles 'Chuck' Gordon Huseby, 71

Charles "Chuck" Gordon Huseby, 71, died Jan. 11, 2005, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Reservoir timber plan is approved

Extensive road restrictions that still don't quite meet forest plan standards, along with limited timber salvage work, have been approved by the Flathead National Forest for lands burned by 2003 wildfires west of Hungry Horse Reservoir.

Whitefish's Black Curtain goes up on 'Proof'

The Whitefish Theatre Company announces two evenings of live theatre with its Black Curtain production of "Proof" by David Auburn. Jan. 21-22 at 8 p.m. at the O'Shaughnessy Center.

Kalispell Fire Department had nine calls. The crew went with Smith Valley fire department to two accidents on U.S. 2 West near Hart Hill Wednesday evening.

Kalispell Fire Department

O'Shaughnessy Center offers a combination of musicians

Spend an afternoon with solo pianist Philip Aaberg, violinist Darol Anger and cellist Eugene Friesen on Jan. 23 at the O'Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Lawsuit seeks reversal for four minor subdivisions

A local homeowners group is suing the Flathead County commissioners for approving four Smith Valley minor subdivisions in December after their own county attorney said the projects were illegal.

Today

State of Montana and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes sponsor an open house to discuss the draft Interim Groundwater Use Agreement, 10 a.m. to noon at Kwataqnuk Resort, 303 U.S. 93 East, in Polson. Call 406-444-6841.

Ruth Barker, 84

Ruth Barker, 84, passed away on Jan. 11, 2005, at St. Joseph's Medical Center in Stockton, Calif. She was a resident of Flathead County for 27 years.

Planning board begins another busy year

The Daily Inter Lake

The generosity of the Flathead

When it comes to being generous, one might be hard-pressed to find a place as benevolent as the Flathead Valley.

Subdivision, day care get positive votes from Kalispell board

The Kalispell City Planning Board on Tuesday night recommended approval of a Kalispell Regional Medical Center day care and a subdivision near Three Mile Drive.

Two Rivers amendment review gets under way

The Flathead County Planning Board's efforts to tackle the massive Two Rivers growth policy amendment begin today with an organized tour of the area in question.

Donald Ray McIntyre, 61

Donald Ray McIntyre, 61, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2005, at his residence northwest of Kalispell.

Bravettes pull off rare win in Missoula

The Daily Inter Lake

Rocky rumble features loaded 119 class

All the talk heading into the 28th annual Jug Beck Rocky Mountain Classic this weekend is about one thing - the super talented 119-pound weight class.

Record lows reported on the way

C-Falls tops Polson

The Daily Inter Lake

Timber work to proceed despite appeal

A Forest Service timber salvage project in the area burned by the 2003 Crazy Horse Fire has been appealed by two environmental groups.

Meeting to discuss reservation water development

The Montana Reserved Water Rights Compact Commission will hold a public meeting in Kalispell this afternoon to discuss the recently proposed draft interim administration agreement with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

Glacier approves blueprint for commercial services

Glacier National Park has a plan that should give visitors better services and facilities in years to come.

Vollhaber sentenced for rape, attacking victim's father

An Evergreen man who was ordered to pay $1.126 million for his sexual relationship with a neighbor girl wasn't able to do that, but he is headed to prison.

Mayors meet with governor

Kalispell Mayor Pam Kennedy and mayors of other large Montana cities discussed their concerns about economic development with Governor Brian Schweitzer in Helena on Tuesday.

Bigfork kids give change with their hearts

'Angel' flies in to plan for air show

Despite heavy snow flurries and the potential for subzero temperatures, one of the U.S. Navy's F/A-18 Blue Angel jets arrived at Glacier Park International Airport on Wednesday,

Flathead's Dennehy lands state honor

The Daily Inter Lake

Tough decisions ahead for new FWP commissioner

For the last 40-odd years, Vic Workman has enjoyed the view of Montana from a saddle or while chasing white-tails around the forests.

Judge, prosecutor mull the decision

The chief U.S. District Judge in Montana, Donald Molloy in Missoula, thinks the Supreme Court's ruling on sentencing guidelines will bring the federal court system more in line with how people believe the system should function.

Janice Darlene Nelson, 74

Janice Darlene Nelson, 74, passed away Jan. 10, 2005, at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane.

Baucus improves ability to acquire highway funds

Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., has moved up the food chain in his ability to acquire federal highway funding, a change that is expected to yield dividends for high-profile projects such as Glacier National Park's Going-to-the-Sun Road rebuild and construction of a Kalispell bypass route.

Whitefish girls win close game over Bigfork

Whitefish held off a late comeback by Bigfork to seal a 48-42 victory in a Class A Western Division matchup in Bigfork Tuesday night.

Flathead speech dominates Gonzaga meet

The Daily Inter Lake

Gravel pit text amendment pulled from board agenda

The Daily Inter Lake

Dellwo came back to give Polson the lead over Whitefish

Family wants Dasen to account for man's estate

For the second time, questions have been raised about Dick Dasen Sr.'s management of trust-fund money.

Drug task force faces loss of federal funding

Federal funding for Montana drug task forces will be cut by about 57 percent next year, leaving law-enforcement leaders looking for other ways to keep up their work.

Snow, wind, cold on the way

The Daily Inter Lake

Russell Gordon Feightner, 49

Russell Gordon Feightner, a mountain man, and a "beloved son of God," passed away in his sleep, Jan. 5, 2005, at the age of 49.

Whitefish police took a call from a woman who said her axle and a tire flew out from beneath her car on Montana 40, catapulted across the road and went through a fence.

Whitefish police

Robert William "Bob" Duncan, 87

Robert William "Bob" Duncan, of Kalispell, 87, passed away on Friday, Jan. 7, 2005, at his winter home in Mesa, Ariz.

Close the flap on 'box store tax'

Sure, it would be easy to pick on "box stores" by slapping them with a tax. But that tax plan comes with a cost, which is evident with Costco's announcement last week that it is suspending planned capital investments in Montana because of a proposed box-store tax.

Wrestling has history

Talk about a sport that has old, old history, and you're talking about wrestling. Talk about a sport that really tries to level the playing field - to the point where the competitors even weigh the same amount - and you're talking about wrestling. And no local team is wrestling better right now than the Flathead Braves.

Land donated for sewer plant

Bank employee pleads guilty to embezzling

Cheryl G. Serfoss admitted Tuesday that she embezzled about $759,000 when she worked at First Interstate Bank in Kalispell.

Leah Ann Odegard, 51

Leah Ann Odegard, 51, of Port Orchard, Wash., died Saturday, Jan. 8, 2005, of complications from breast cancer.

Arctic express due Wednesday night

The Daily Inter Lake

Kalispell police arrested a 12-year-old girl for family-member assault and criminal mischief on Fifth Avenue East. A 16-year-old girl was arrested for a probation violation on Lehi Lane.

Kalispell police

Tuesday

Red Cross blood drive noon to 4 p.m. First Interstate Bank of Evergreen.

Jolly Righetti

Lines of communication to Legislature open

HELENA - When Rep. Tim Dowell, D-Kalispell, first served in the Legislature in 1991, there piles of paper phone messages and a total of two computers for House members to use.

Dorothy Jane (Donaldson) Anderson, 81

Dorothy Jane (Donaldson) Anderson, 81, of Kalispell, passed away on Jan. 4, 2005, at Buffalo Hill Terrace of natural causes. She was born on Sept. 22, 1923, in Spring Lake, N.J. She then moved to New York City where she was raised.

Eleanor (Littares) 'Terry' Siler, 81

Eleanor (Littares) "Terry" Siler, 81, passed away on Jan. 8, 2005, in Kalispell, of natural causes. She was born Oct. 21, 1923, in Gridley, Calif.

Bulldog burglar busted

The Daily Inter Lake

Getting in touch

Montana Senate

Severe cold requires caution

Whitefish police arrested a man on warrants for traffic violations and other crimes Monday.

Whitefish police

Norma M. 'Frenchy' Henry, 100

Norma M. "Frenchy" Henry, 100, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 9, 2005, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Columbia Falls police arrested a man for DUI on South Nucleus Drive Sunday night.

Columbia Falls police

Class offers fitness on a budget

Alarms

Kalispell fire department had 14 calls. One was to a collision between a front-end loader and a car in the community college parking lot. Another was to the State Farm Insurance building on Main Street where smoke was deemed to be a harmless product of a heating system. Monday, the crew went to Smith Valley School, where a student collapsed.

Appeals court overturns Burgert sentence

David Burgert will be sentenced again for federal weapons crimes as officials wrangle over whether a companion with him during his arrest can legally be considered "another person."

Dr. Herman "Chet" Ross, 87

Longtime Kalispell veterinarian, Dr. Herman "Chet" Ross, 87, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2005, at his home in Somers. He was born on Sept. 15, 1918, in Naugatuk, Conn., to Samuel and Gussie (Eisen) Rosenstein. He was the younger of two boys.

Efforts to stabilize river flows gain support

Montana's efforts to stabilize summer flows from Libby Dam and keep the water level high at Koocanusa Reservoir are gaining considerable support.

Montana books helping fund Glacier Institute

Best-selling children's author Bruce Larkin has created four Montana-related books and is donating 50 percent of book sales to the Glacier Institute in an effort to increase national park awareness and education.

Sherry Ann Kline, 52

On Friday, Jan. 7, 2005, "God gazed down from Heaven, in search of a helper with a good heart, and called upon Sherry Ann Kline."

Columbia Falls police arrested a girl, 13, Saturday night for assaulting a family member late Saturday in the Police Department's parking lot.

Columbia Falls police

Comments sought on Whitefish downtown plan

The Heart of Whitefish hosts a meeting Jan. 27 to take comments on a downtown master plan.

Board considers day-care proposal

The Daily Inter Lake

ALERT

Helicopter was initially dispatched to the Isaak Walton Inn east of West Glacier for a 21-month-old baby that was having an allergic reaction Sunday afternoon. Heavy snow forced the helicopter to turn back, but Three Rivers Ambulance responded to the incident.

Mr. Congeniality: Howard Austin takes pleasure in civic service

The first things most people notice about Howard Austin are his ear-to-ear smile and perennial optimism.

Big Mountain's reporting duo make sure skiers and snowboarders aren't left in the dark

Whitefish ski shop keeps its edge with customized service

Operating a specialty ski shop in a seasonal resort town is not an easy task, Chris Hyatt knows, but after a decade in business he's found what works for him.

Alarms

Local emergency crews and towing companies responded to numerous minor accidents and reports of vehicles sliding into ditches Friday night and Saturday morning.

Flathead County sheriff

In Hungry Horse, neighbors complained to Flathead County sheriff's deputies that the boy next door was playing music so loud that it was vibrating water in their toilet tank until 1 or 2 a.m.

Bigfork zone changes move forward

The Daily Inter Lake

McCracken selected as carnival prime minister

Malcolm "Mac" McCracken was named Prime Minister of the Whitefish Winter Carnival at the annual Merry Maker event Saturday.

A wave of support for tsunami victims

It's been two weeks since the world as we know it was altered in a way that's still hard to comprehend.

A Minnesota definition of real winter

Minnesota natives wear their fortitude for winter like a badge of courage.

Local men see the aftermath in Thailand

It was the bunny on the beach that stunned Michael Jennings first, a symbol of how everything had changed when the tsunami hit.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police took a complaint about someone knocking down mailboxes and leaving the scene of an accident in the 1600 block of Second Street East.

Position open on Flathead Electric board

Flathead Electric Cooperative is taking applications for an opening on its board.

Kalispell police

Kalispell police arrested 11 juveniles late Friday night. They were having a party in a home near the city airport.

National Ski Fest continues today, Izaak Walton Inn, Essex. Free lessons 11 a.m. each day. Games, races, demonstrations, sleigh rides. Call 406-888-5700.

Today

Columbia Falls police

Columbia Falls police broke up a shouting match between two women. They were told to stay away from each other.

Costco puts plans for new stores on hold

Costco has put a hold on plans to develop a new store in Kalispell, or new stores anywhere in Montana, because of a proposed tax on "box stores" that will be considered by the state Legislature, a Costco executive said Friday.

John Leonard 'Jack' Horn, 97

John Leonard Horn better known as "Jack," 97, a longtime resident of Shelby and Happy Valley in Whitefish, passed away on Jan. 2, 2005, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish of natural causes. Jack lived his last four years at the Colonial Manor of Whitefish.

Supreme court ends fight over FVCC vote

The Montana Supreme Court has cleared the way for Flathead Valley Community College to sell $15.8 million in bonds to expand the Kalispell campus.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police arrested a 34-year-old Whitefish man Friday on an outstanding warrant for assault and disturbing the peace.

Kermit Clark 'Kerm' Pearson, 79

Kermit Clark "Kerm" Pearson, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, passed away from cancer at 79 years, Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2005, at the family home in Somers.

Lost wallets returned to owners

Mereanus and Shirlene Petersen were heading into Kmart last month to do some Christmas shopping. As they were walking through the store a man in his mid-20s or 30s came up to them holding Mereanus' wallet and asked him if it was his.

2004 weather: Predictably unpredictable

Flathead County experienced a number of weather extremes during 2004, including record highs, record lows, massive snowfalls and hurricane-force winds.

Cold, or really cold?

Weather models waffle over how bad it will be

Sunriser Lions 34th annual Ice Fishing Derby 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Smith Lake near Kila. Prizes, hourly drawings, chili and hot dogs, warming fire. Adults, $3; Kids, $2; Family, $6.

Today

Columbia Falls police

Columbia Falls police investigated a theft of money from a residence on Talbot Road Friday.

The 46th Whitefish Winter Carnival kicks off Saturday with the Merry Maker dinner and roast at 6 p.m. at the Great Northern Bar and Grill on Central Avenue.

Whitefish Winter Carnival kicks off today

Whitefish band to play for Schweitzer's inaugural ball

Gov. Brian Schweitzer will enter to hometown fanfare at his inaugural ball in Helena on Feb. 12.

Alarms

Kalispell police investigated possible fraud at Murdoch's on Friday. A man allegedly wrote two bad checks for merchandise and came back later to try to return the merchandise for cash.

Flathead County Sheriff

Flathead County Sheriff's deputies got a complaint of a golf ball flying through the window on Fern Lane in Bigfork Friday afternoon.

Gerald R. "Rusty" Cargill, 55

Gerald R. "Rusty" Cargill, 55, passed away Dec. 31, 2004, in Kalispell.

Harmonica star at Whitefish club

Flanagan's Central Station in Whitefish brings in harmonica great Billy Branch and the Sons of Blues for two shows, Jan. 14-15.

Delay requested in Dasen trial

Kalispell businessman Dick Dasen Sr. has requested a delay in his Jan. 24 trial for prostitution-related charges.

Whitefish schools to update the public

Whitefish schools invite the public to attend a Superintendent's Community Forum on Jan. 20.

Kalispell Fire and Ambulance responded to four calls and took three people to the hospital.

Kalispell Fire and Ambulance

Whitefish cruises to win over Bigfork

WHITEFISH - Once Whitefish got rolling, the dual meet between the 10th-ranked Bulldogs and No. 5 Columbia Falls wasn't much of a contest.

Whitefish police were kept busy with deer, barking dogs and assorted traffic incidents Thursday.

Whitefish police

Blacktail holds Safety on Snow program this weekend

Blacktail Mountain Ski area is teaming up with Kalispell Regional Medical Center's Family Resources and Flathead Valley Search and Rescue to offer a Safety on Snow Program this weekend.

Salute to Gipe; farewell to Ross, Mercord

Public service in the Flathead has attracted many dedicated citizens over the years, but few have been as well-liked as Howard Gipe.

Today

Big Sky Astronomy Club "comet watch" and public viewing session 7 p.m., west parking lot of Kalispell Junior High School. If skies are cloudy, the session will be rescheduled for Jan. 8. Call 250-4754.

Museum hires new director

New FWP panel eyes bison hunt cease-fire

HELENA - A Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Commission that includes a new member from Whitefish went to work Thursday, agreeing to consider stopping a planned bison hunt north of Yellowstone National Park.

Brockway gets prison in weapons conspiracy

MISSOULA - A remorseful former Flathead Valley woman tied to the Project 7 paramilitary group will spend 27 months in prison for federal weapons violations.

Bigfork man sentenced to prison on drug charges

MISSOULA - Ernie K. Fulford, 47, of Bigfork will spend six and a half years in prison on federal drug charges.

Columbia Falls police responded to four non-injury accidents Thursday.

Columbia Falls police

Delbert 'Dub' Harry Owens, 78

Delbert Harry "Dub" Owens, 78, died in his sleep on Dec. 29, 2004, at his home in Columbia Falls.

Two indicted for investments fraud

MISSOULA - Two former Kalispell men have been indicted by a grand jury on charges of fraud related to securities sales.

Kalispell police officers picked up a large quantity of suspected methamphetamine that was dropped off at Pathways on Thursday by a relative of a patient.

Kalispell police

Flathead High School presents gripping drama

The Flathead High School Theatre Department's Acting II class will present the compelling drama "Flowers for Algernon" January 10 and 12 at 7 p.m. in the David M. Hashley Theatre.

Martha Ilma Martin, 95

Martha Ilma Martin, 95, of Shelby, passed away at Marias Care Center in Shelby of natural causes on Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2005.

Doris Ann Holt, 86

Doris Ann Holt, 86, "went home to be with her Lord and Saviour" as she slept Dec. 15, 2004, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Columbia Falls police took a report of a man who approached two girls after he was warned to stay away from them. He is a relative.

Columbia Falls police

Fire department saves woman's life

A woman who plunged through the ice and spent a half hour struggling in frigid Foy's Lake on Christmas has the Kalispell Fire Department to thank for surviving.

Cost of water, sewer project in C.Falls jumps

A rebuild of Fourth Avenue West and a pair of adjacent sewer and water projects are going back to the financial drawing board in Columbia Falls.

Today

Red Cross blood drive 12:30-5:30 p.m., North Valley Community Room, Columbia Falls.

State seeks comments on four new rock quarries

The Daily Inter Lake

O'Neil's legal fights reflected in legislation

HELENA - Legal troubles for state Sen. Jerry O'Neil, R-Columbia Falls, have translated to legislation that he hopes will reform Montana's judicial system and make it more accessible to the public.

A House divided must still function

It would be hard to overstate the historic and pragmatic significance of the 50-50 split in the Montana House of Representatives.

Nordic center open for skiing

Bigfork's Community Nordic Center trails are groomed and ready for skiing. The center is located at the junction of Foothill and Jewel Basin Roads.

Man guilty in drugs and gun case

The Daily Inter Lake

Local lion hunters not happy with number of outfitted hunters

The lion was in front of us then gone.

Smith Lake derby kicks off ice fishing season

With the holidays and hunting season behind us, its time to pull on the wool pants, grab your 5-gallon bucket and head for some early season ice fishing.

Whitefish police found that a man in their jail is wanted on drug-related warrants.

Whitefish police

Grover F. Botkin, 80

Grover F. Botkin, 80, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 12, 2004. He was traveling in his beloved home state of Montana.

Kalispell fire department had eight calls, all for medical problems or falls.

Kalispell fire department

Kalispell police arrested a man for assault and disorderly conduct, after a shouting and shoving match at Heritage Place Tuesday morning in which he made two unwelcome appearances before his arrest.

Kalispell police

Whitefish divorces Tri-City Planning

Citing the need to be in control of its own destiny, the Whitefish City Council on Monday unanimously agreed to sever ties with the Tri-City Planning Office.

Polson gets best of Wildcats

The Daily Inter Lake

Braves coast

Skier rescued from back of Big Mountain

A cold, wet skier from Fergus Falls, Minn., was rescued from the back of Big Mountain late Monday night.

Woman allegedly started fires in home

The Daily Inter Lake

Whitefish police arrested a woman for DUI on U.S. 93 north of town early Tuesday morning.

Whitefish police

Process of drafting bills just getting under way

HELENA - Susan Fox is used to it: for a few months every two years, her in-box fills with dozens of bill draft assignments. Some can be processed fairly quickly, but others require extensive research. Most will go through a complex process of checks, reviews, edits and amendments before they get a final vote from the Legislature.

Today

School District 5 and Flathead High School district Personnel Committee meets at 7 a.m. at the district office.

College founder Chet Ross dies at 87

Herman "Chet" Ross, 87, died Tuesday at his home in Somers.

The Melita miracle came to pass

It once seemed so hopeless: a well-intentioned effort to acquire a Flathead Lake island for a Boy Scout camp, apparently destined for a disappointing end.

Troy mourns as hometown Marine is laid to rest

C.Falls sends planning message to commissioners

The Columbia Falls City Council sent a message on planning to the county commissioners on Monday night: We're OK with a change to the interlocal agreement if it allows for automatic boundary extensions when the city grows, but can't we just go back to the way it was?

Lenora Knapton, 91

Lenora Knapton, 91, a longtime Columbia Falls resident, passed away on New Year's Day, 2005, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

Landowner protests stall JP Road project

A proposed $1.1 million special improvement district for three-tenths of a mile of JP Road has been put on hold for 30 days while the city of Whitefish negotiates with county property owners.

Eugene Carlos Sempf, 73

Eugene Carlos Sempf, 73, a former resident of Kalispell, died Sept. 20, 2004, at his residence in Anchorage, Alaska.

Clifford M. Jore, 81

Clifford M. Jore, 81, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2004, at his residence at Kila. He was born on Nov. 5, 1923, on a farm at Keene, McKenzie County, N.D., the son of Clarence and Marit (Haugen) Jore. He was one of eight children.

Land plan sent back to planning board

Commissioners give planning board another crack at Two Rivers amendment

House divided squabbles over speaker

HELENA - The governor's inauguration ceremony attracted a crowd that filled the Capitol Rotunda on Monday, but the day's drama was reserved for election of speaker of the House, a process that was dominated by Republicans despite a presumed advantage for Democrats.

F. Charles 'Chuck' Mercord, 73

Frederick Charles "Chuck" Mercord died Friday, Dec. 31, 2004, at his residence in Lakeside after a three-month battle with cancer.

Eagle Transit director retires after 20 years

If a retirement gift from coworkers is any indicator of what she'll do after working 20 years for Eagle Transit, Deanna Thielman has naps and lazy mornings in her future.

Whitefish police took a report Monday of a wallet stolen from a vehicle on New Year's Eve. Exceeding that in delayed reporting was a report of a bike stolen in town last August.

Whitefish police

Commissioners consider changes in board responsibilities

The Flathead County commissioners rearranged their board on Monday, naming Gary Hall as chairman for 2005.

Shirley Jean Backer, 59

Shirley Jean Backer, 59, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 1, 2005, at Brendan House in Kalispell. She was born June 23, 1945, in West Sacramento, Calif., to William and Marie Watters.

Clancy King

Patrolman King promoted to Helena

Basin commission names executive director

A Montana native with over three decades of experience as an environmental engineer has been named the first dedicated executive director of the Flathead Basin Commission.

Kalispell police took a report of three cars driving around Woodland Park, shooting paintballs at one another. They were gone when officers arrived.

Kalispell police

New rules help state wolf management

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced new rules Monday that will allow the state of Montana to assume lead management authority, along with additional management flexibility, over wolves across the state.

Tuesday

Libby Dam's planned maintenance operation for today has been postponed due to the need for power generation during the area's cold snap. It will be rescheduled as weather allows. Call Greg Hoffman at 406-293-7751, ext 255.

Kalispell fire department

Kalispell fire department at a dozen calls for medical problems.

David W. Benson, 84

After a year-long battle with esophageal cancer, David W. Benson, 84, passed away on Dec. 31, 2004, at his winter home in Quartzite, Ariz. Dave was born in Juneau, Alaska, on Sept. 12, 1920, where he spent his first six years before moving with his family to Port Angeles, Wash. He was raised in Washington state for the next 10 years before striking out on his own as a musician and singer.

Kalispell fire department had three calls - all for medical problems.

Kalispell fire department

Lowe's opens Tuesday in Kalispell

Kalispell council faces light agenda

The Daily Inter Lake

Kalispell police are looking for a woman who left for a party with three men at 2:30 a.m. Saturday and still hasn't returned to the motel where she is staying. Her fiance is wondering where she is.

Kalispell police

Walgreens to open in February

The Daily Inter Lake

Whitefish votes tonight on planning-office withdrawal

The Daily Inter Lake

Longtime C. Falls accountant ready for another tax season

C. Falls council meets tonight

The Daily Inter Lake

F. Charles 'Chuck' Mercord, 73

Frederick Charles "Chuck" Mercord died Friday, Dec. 31, 2004, at his residence in Lakeside after a three-month battle with cancer.

Flathead County Sheriff

Flathead County Sheriff's Office took a call Saturday from a driver on Montana 35 who came upon a white Dodge truck stopped in the middle of the road near Bigfork. When she approached the driver to see if he needed help, he responded by yelling "Yee-haw" and pounding on the steering wheel. She wondered if he might have been drinking.

Columbia Falls police are looking into a complaint that a young woman is stalking her former boyfriend and his current girlfriend.

Columbia Falls police

Donald Eyan Craig McCully

Donald Eyan Craig McCully son of Michelle Rudie and Gary McCully of Kalispell, was born Nov. 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 8 pounds and was 19 inches long.

Madison Grace Collins

Madison Grace Collins daughter of April and Jerry Collins of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Bianca Mae Hansen

Bianca Mae Hansen daughter of Clayton and Brea Hansen of Kalispell, was born Nov. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds, 11 1/2 ounces and was 21 inches long.

Wyatt Rexford Thompson

Wyatt Rexford Thompson son of Toby and Mary Thompson of Bigfork, was born Nov. 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Lily Michelle Clark

Lily Michelle Clark daughter of Renae and Joe Clark of Kalispell, was born Nov. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 3 ounces and was 18 inches long.

Emalee Ann Howard

Emalee Ann Howard daughter of Troy and Becky Howard of Lakeside, was born Dec. 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Kaden Wayne Palmer

Kaden Wayne Palmer son of Paulson and Jamie Palmer of Somers, was born Dec. 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 6 pounds, 14 1/2 ounces and was 19 1/4 inches long.

Teagen Dawn Hall

Teagen Dawn Hall daughter of Tyler and Stephanie Hall of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Angello Hammond

Angello HammondHe weighed 6 pounds, 12 ounces and was 18 1/2 inches long.

Duncan Michael Badley

Duncan Michael Badley son of April and Jeremy Badley of Kalispell, was born Nov. 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 8 pounds, 4 1/2 ounces and was 21 inches long.

Maddison Mae Morton Warburton

Maddison Mae Morton Warburton daughter of Lynsey Warburton of Kalispell, and Michael Morton and Missoula, was born Dec. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Jeremiah Kincaid Welliver

Jeremiah Kincaid Welliver son of Renee Stern and George Welliver of Kalispell, was born Nov. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 5 pounds, 15.4 ounces and was 17 3/4 inches long.

Joshua James Melton

Joshua James Melton son of Garrett Melton and Elizabeth Frisk of Bigfork, was born Dec. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 1 ounce and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Damian Daniel Sarkkinen

Damian Daniel Sarkkinen son of Daniel and Tammy Sarkkinen of Kalispell, was born Nov. 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 8 pounds, 11 ounces and was 21 inches long.

Conner William Malmberg

Conner William Malmberg son of Mike and Lynn Malmberg of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 27 at North Valley Hospital.He weighed 8 pounds, 12 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Hunter Anthony Magness

Hunter Anthony Magness son of Chad and Kelly Magness of Kalispell, was born Nov. 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Alexis Kay Nelson

Alexis Kay Nelson daughter of Jenniffer and C.J. Nelson of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 2 ounces and was 18 inches long.

Ryder Andrew Gordy Duke

Ryder Andrew Gordy Duke son of Jessica Duke of Kalispell, was born Nov. 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 6 pounds and was 20 inches long.

Megan Lynn Rose

Megan Lynn Rose daughter of Jamie and Paul Rose of Kalispell, was born Dec. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Lindsay Marie Geldrich

Lindsay Marie Geldrich daughter of Russ and Keri Geldrich of Kalispell, was born Nov. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Brookelyn Louise Slonaker

Brookelyn Louise Slonaker daughter of Joseph and Amber Slonaker of Polson, was born Nov. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Ashton James Kennedy

Ashton James Kennedy son of Cy and Megan Kennedy of Kalispell, was born Nov. 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 8 pounds, 13 ounces and was 23 1/2 inches long.

Bowdrie James Krack

Bowdrie James Krack son of Jon and Jennifer Krack of Whitefish, was born Dec. 7 at North Valley Hospital.He weighed 5 pounds, 7 ounces and was 18 inches long.

Laura Jean Kanzler

Laura Jean Kanzler daughter of Kenneth Kantzler and Carly Wallace of Troy, was born Nov. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 8 pounds, 2 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Wyatt Bradford Gestring

Wyatt Bradford Gestring son of Sheila and Keith Gestring of Kalispell, was born Nov. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds and was 19 3/4 inches long.

Levi Alan Uhde

Levi Alan Uhde son of Jana Martell and Jeremy Uhde of Lakeside, was born Dec. 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 5 pounds, 12 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Autumn Joy Walters

Autumn Joy Walters daughter of Bill and Diane Walters of Kila, was born Dec. 23 at North Valley Hospital.She weighed 5 pounds, 7 1/2 ounces and was 18 1/2 inches long.

Jason Lee Burkett

Jason Lee Burkett son of James and Brenda Burkett of Kalispell, was born Dec. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 6 pounds, 11.5 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Zoe Elizabeth Chapman

Zoe Elizabeth Chapman daughter of Aaron and Tara Chapman of Kalispell, was born Dec. 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 9 pounds, 2 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Andrew Steven Turner

Andrew Steven Turner son of Joshua and Jane Turner of Kalispell, was born Nov. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 8 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Ethan Connor Rich

Ethan Connor Rich son of Dustin and Paula Rich of Kalispell, was born Dec. 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 5 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Tristan Khan Clarke

Tristan Khan Clarke son of Jennifer and Zak Clarke of Kalispell, was born Nov. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7.11 pounds and was 21 inches long.

DekoDa Ryan Newton

DekoDa Ryan Newton son of Derek and Heather Newton of Kalispell, was born Dec. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Liana Khmelev

Liana KhmelevShe weighed 8.8 pounds and was 20 1/4 inches long.

Justin Douglas Riffle

Justin Douglas Riffle son of Gene and Layla Riffle of Kalispell, was born Nov. 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces and was 22 inches long.

Ryleah Sky Harris

Ryleah Sky Harris daughter of Darin and Shelly Harris of Kalispell, was born Nov. 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 8 pounds, 10 ounces and was 21 inches long.

Kara Lin Ort

Kara Lin Ort daughter of Jeff and Emmy Ort of Bigfork, was born Dec. 22 at North Valley Hospital.She weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 inches long.

Tiffany Lynn Heidegger

Tiffany Lynn Heidegger daughter of Paul and Susan Heidegger of Kalispell, was born Nov. 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces.

Deyo DeVera Schulze

Deyo DeVera Schulze son of Elmer and Melissa Schulze of Kalispell, was born Nov. 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 6 pounds, 9 ounces and was 18 3/4 inches long.

Christine Marie Jackson

Christine Marie Jackson daughter of Lola Craft and Gerald Jackson Jr. of Kalispell, was born Nov. 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 2 ounces and was 18 1/2 inches long.

Geneva Isabel Simonson

Geneva Isabel Simonson daughter of Bo and Michelle Simonson of Kalispell, was born Dec. 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 2 ounces and was 18 inches long.

Cole Asher Masa

Cole Asher Masa son of Jodi and Andy Masa of Kalispell, was born Nov. 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 7 pounds, 14 ounces and was 21 1/2 inches long.

Kaden Allen Radish

Kaden Allen Radish son of Cristia Radish of Kalispell, was born Nov. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 8 pounds and was 21 inches long.

Kase William Anderson

Kase William Anderson son of Kvandi and Josie Anderson of Condon, was born Nov. 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 9 pounds, 1 ounce and was 21 1/2 inches long.

Noelle Faith Stacy

Noelle Faith Stacy daughter of Ken Stacy and Kris Ryerson of Whitefish, was born Dec. 22 at North Valley Hospital.She weighed 8 pounds, 7 1/2 ounces and was 21 3/4 inches long.

Riley Scott Atchinson

Riley Scott Atchinson son of Ryan Atchison and Corean Thomas of Whitefish, was born Dec. 21 at North Valley Hospital.He weighed 6.9 pounds and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Beverly Maxwell Harpster, 77

Beverly Maxwell Harpster, age 77, passed away Thursday, December 30, 2004 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell. She was born May 5, 1927, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Thomas Norman and Reva (Ludlow) Maxwell.

John Matthew Boger

John Matthew Boger son of William and Kimberly Boger of Kalispell, was born Dec. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 9 pounds, 3 ounces and was 21 inches long.

Alivia Jasmine Davis

Alivia Jasmine Davis daughter of Derrick and Cresta Davis of Kalispell, was born Nov. 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 6 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Zerita Angell McAtee

Zerita Angell McAtee daughter of Richard and Marcey McAtee of West Glacier, was born Nov. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce and was 20 3/4 inches long.

Mallory Janise Browning

Mallory Janise Browning daughter of Dave and Schelene Browning of Whitefish, was born Dec. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 7 pounds, 9 ounces and was 21 1/2 inches long.

Ivy Michelle Gannon

Ivy Michelle Gannon daughter of Anne and Brian Gannon of Lakeside, was born Nov. 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.She weighed 6 pounds, 12 ounces and was 19 1/2 inches long.

Dakoda Daniel Flagg

Dakoda Daniel Flagg son of Natasha Flagg of Kalispell, was born Nov. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 6 pounds, 2 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Michael Christopher Pendle

Michael Christopher Pendle son of Kathleen and Robert Pendle of Kalispell, was born Dec. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.He weighed 8.06 pounds and was 20 inches long.

Building a future for education

Commissioner Howard Gipe steps down, but not for retirement

Kalispell baby rings in the New Year

Levi Paul Martino is the north Flathead Valley's newest celebrity today.

New Forest Service rules long overdue

Despite the alarmist claims of some environmental groups, the reforms to the forest planning process rolled out by the Forest Service recently are long-awaited and much-needed.

New commissioner immediately confronts growth issues

Ready or not, incoming County Commissioner Joe Brenneman will have to confront the issue of growth in the Flathead almost immediately on Monday.

Marine's death touches community

Special to the Inter Lake

Clifford M. Jore, 81

Clifford M. Jore, age 81, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 30, 2004, at his residence at Kila. He was born on Nov. 5, 1923, on a farm at Keene, McKenzie County, N.D., the son of Clarence and Marit (Haugen) Jore. He was one of eight children.

Donald Allen 'Jake' Jacobson, 60

Donald Allen "Jake" Jacobson, 60, died Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2004, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident near Gillette, Wyo. He was born Dec. 31, 1943, to Erling N. and Lela M. (Grafton) Jacobson in Fargo, N.D.

Postal payroll checks lost in the mail

The Daily Inter Lake

E.O. "Gene" Boyle Sr., 90

E.O. "Gene" Boyle Sr., 90, passed away Dec. 30, 2004, at Prestige Assisted Living in Kalispell.

Churches address disaster relief, spiritual questions after tsunami

While local churches are urging members to contribute to relief efforts after Sunday's earthquake and tsunami in Southeast Asia, pastors also hope to help people make spiritual sense of such an immense tragedy.

Cpl. Raleigh Clinton Smith, 21

Cpl. Raleigh Clinton Smith, U.S. Marine Corps, was killed in action on Dec. 23, 2004, in Fallujah, Iraq. He was born Dec. 7, 1983, in Libby. He was raised and graduated high school in Troy. He left for boot camp two days after he graduated.

A year in the planning mill

Chewed up, ground down, burned out

Saturday

Kalispell Senior Center, 403 Second Ave. W., has a 1 p.m. potluck. All are invited.

Whitefish police

Whitefish police arrested an Ohio visitor Thursday for underage possession of alcohol and possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia on U.S. 93 South.

Finding family fun

Many parents make family time a year-round priority, but winter affords some unique opportunities and activities to bring the family together.

Lots of bills planned for next Legislatature

There's no shortage of bills being planned for the next Legislature by Flathead-area representatives; some should stir lively debates, others will die quickly and some will wind their way through the process.

Where to send aid

The Daily Inter Lake

Columbia Falls police arrested a man for DUI on U.S. 2 and Riley Lane.

Columbia Falls police

Kalispell police went to West Utah Street Thursday when a resident said there were 15 kids in the yard, yelling at her. Officers counseled everyone in involved.

Kalispell police